Table of Contents

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10-K

 

☒ ANNUAL REPORT UNDER SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 20192021

 

OR

 

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

For the transition period from_____to_____from to 

 

Commission File Number 0-29923

 

CUI Global,Orbital Energy Group, Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

 

Colorado

 

(3670)(1731)

 

84-1463284

(State or jurisdiction of

(Primary Standard Industrial

 

(Primary Standard IndustrialI.R.S. Employer

incorporation or organization)

 

(I.R.S. Employer

incorporation or organization)Classification Code Number)

 

Classification Code Number)

Identification No.)

 

20050 SW 112th Avenue1924 Aldine Western

Tualatin, Oregon 97062Houston, Texas  77038

(832) 467-1420

(Address and Telephone Number of Principal Executive Offices and Principal Place of

Business)

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

Title of each class

 Trading Symbol(s) 

Name of each exchange

where registered

Common Stock, $0.001 par value $0.001 per sharevalue.

 CUIOEG 

The NASDAQNasdaq Stock Market LLC

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

 

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

☐ Yes   ☒ No

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.

☐ Yes   ☒ No

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.   ☒ Yes  ☐ No

 

1

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files).   ☒ Yes  ☐ No

 

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§ 229.405 of this chapter) 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 or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of ‘‘large accelerated filer,’’ ‘‘accelerated filer,’’ ‘‘smaller reporting company,’’ and "emerging‘‘emerging growth company"company’’ in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

 

Large accelerated filer ☐            Accelerated filer ☐    Non-accelerated filer  ☒

Smaller reporting company  ☒     Emerging growth company  ☐

 

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐

 

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant has filed a report on and attestation to its management’s assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting under section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its audit report. ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).   ☐ Yes   ☒ No

 

The aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates, based on the closing price of our common stock on the last business day of the registrant’s most recently completed fiscal second quarter (June 30, 2019)2021), was approximately $20,351,697.$226,816,958. Shares of common stock beneficially held by each executive officer and director as well as 10% holders as of June 30, 20192021 have been excluded from this computation because these persons may be deemed to be affiliates. This determination of affiliate status is not necessarily a conclusive determination for any other purpose.

 

As of March 30, 2020,31, 2022, the registrant had 28,420,68585,409,451 shares of common stock outstanding and no shares of Preferred Stockpreferred stock outstanding.

 

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

None.

 

2

 

Part I

Item 1.

Business

4

Item 1A.

Risk Factors

97

Item 1B.

Unresolved Staff Comments

2122

Item 2.

Properties

2122

Item 3.

Legal Proceedings

22

Item 4.

Mine Safety Disclosure

22

Part II

Item 5.

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

2223

 

Market Value

23

 

Description of Securities

2223

Item 6.

Selected Financial DataReserved

2823

Item 7.

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

2927

 

Critical Accounting Policies

2927

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

3431

 

Results of Operations

3937

Item 7A.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

4543

Item 8.

Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

4745

Item 9.

Changes In and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

9290

Item 9A.

Controls and Procedures

9290

Item 9B.

Other Information

9491

Part III

Item 10.

Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance

9592

 

Our Corporate Governance Practices

9996
 

Audit Committee

10097
 

Audit Committee Report

10198
 

Nominating Committee

10198

Item 11.

Executive Compensation

105102

Item 12.

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

117107

Item 13.

Certain Relationships, Related Transactions and Director Independence

119109

Item 14.

Principal Accounting Fees and Services

120110

Part IV

Item 15.

Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules

121111

 

Exhibits

122112

Item 16.

Form 10-K Summary

123113

 

Signatures

123113

 

Certifications

 

 

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PART I

 

 

Item 1.  Business

 

Corporate Overview and Our Products

 

Orbital Energy Group, Inc. and subsidiaries (Nasdaq: OEG), formerly known as CUI Global Inc. and Subsidiaries, are collectively referred to as ‘‘CUI Global’Orbital Energy Group,’the “Company,” or “The Company.“OEG.CUI GlobalOrbital Energy Group is a Colorado corporation organized on April 21, 1998 with its principal place of business located at 20050 SW 112th Avenue, Tualatin, Oregon 97062, phone (832) 467-1420.1924 Aldine Western, Houston, Texas 77038. The Company is a platformdiversified infrastructure services company dedicated to maximizing shareholder value throughserving customers in the acquisitionelectric power, telecommunications, and developmentrenewable markets.

In the fourth quarter of innovative companies to create a diversified energy services platform. In 2019,2021, the Company made the decision to divest of its Power and Electromechanical segment. The domestic portion of the segment was sold in 2019 in two separate transactions and the Company has subsidiaries held for sale in Canada and Japan. The Company's continuing operations fallwere reclassified into onethree reportable segments, which include the Electric Power segment, referred to as the EnergyTelecommunications segment, and the Renewables segment. In addition, theThe Company’s corporate overhead activities are included in an ‘‘Other’’ category. CUI GlobalOther. Orbital Energy Group has continuing operations in 2two countries, including the United States and United Kingdom. ThroughIndia.

In December 2021, the Company announced plans to exit its energy subsidiaries, CUI Global is a leader in innovative gas solutions with more than 30 yearsIntegrated Energy Infrastructure Solutions and Services segment. Both the domestic portion of experience in design, installationthe segment, Orbital Gas Systems, North America, and the commissioning of industrial gas sampling, measurement and delivery systems providing solutions to the energy, power and processing markets.

Energy Segment

foreign segment, Orbital Gas Systems, Ltd. (Orbital-UK) was held for sale as of December 31, 2021, and considered discontinued operations.

Electric Power Segment

The Electric Power segment consists of Front Line Power Construction, LLC based in Houston, Texas, Orbital Power, Inc. based in Dallas, Texas, and Eclipse Foundation Group based in Gonzales, Louisiana. The segment provides comprehensive infrastructure solutions to customers in the electric power industry. Services performed by Front Line Power and Orbital Power, Inc. generally include but are not limited to the engineering, design, installation, upgrade, repair and maintenance of electric power transmission and distribution infrastructure and substation facilities as well as emergency restoration services. Eclipse Foundation Group, which began operations in January 2021, is a drilled shaft foundation construction company that specializes in providing services to the electric transmission and substation, industrial, telecommunication and disaster restoration market sectors, with expertise performing services in water, marsh and rock terrains.

Telecommunications Segment

The Telecommunications segment consists of Gibson Technical Services (GTS) along with its subsidiaries IMMCO, Inc. based in Atlanta, Georgia and Full Moon Telecom, LLC based in Florida. GTS provides engineering, design, construction, and maintenance services to the broadband and wireless telecommunication industries and was acquired by the Company effective April 13, 2021. IMMCO, Inc. provides enterprise solutions to the cable and telecommunication industries and was acquired by the Company effective July 28, 2021. Full Moon Telecom, LLC provides telecommunication services including an extensive array of wireless service capabilities and was acquired by the Company effective October 22, 2021.

Renewables Segment

Orbital Solar Services, LLC (OSS), based in Raleigh, North Carolina, makes up the Renewables segment. OSS provides engineering, procurement and construction (“EPC”) services that support the development of renewable energy generation focused on utility-scale solar construction. 

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Discontinued Operations  - Integrated Energy Infrastructure Solutions and Services

On December 28, 2021, the Board of Directors of Orbital Energy Group, Inc. approved management’s recommendation for certain restructuring and costs reduction actions to strategically reposition the Company’s business. This strategy focuses on building an infrastructure services company serving the electric power, telecommunications and renewable markets by disposing of two (2) of its subsidiaries.  The two subsidiaries are:

Orbital Gas Systems, North America, Inc. -(“OGSNA”);

● Orbital Gas Systems, Ltd. (“Orbital UK”).

OGSNA and Orbital UK are collectively referred to as the “Orbital Gas Subsidiaries."

The Orbital Gas Subsidiaries provide proprietary gas measurement and sampling technologies and the integration of process control and measuring/sampling systems.  These legacy businesses do not fit within the Company's future strategy to build an infrastructure services company serving the electric power, telecommunications, and renewable markets. The disposition of the Orbital Gas Subsidiaries will facilitate the Company’s restructuring and cost savings initiatives and are intended to realign and simplify its business structure and better position the Company for future growth and improved profitability.

Following is a description of the businesses held for sale:

Orbital Gas Systems, Ltd. (Orbital-UK) is based in Stone, Staffordshire in the United Kingdom and Orbital Gas Systems, North America, Inc. (Orbital North America), is based in Houston, Texas. The Integrated Energy Infrastructure Solutions and Services segment subsidiaries, collectively referred to as (“Orbital Gas Systems (Orbital)Systems”) are leaders in innovative gas solutions, with more than 30 years of experience in design, installation and the commissioning of industrial gas sampling, measurement and delivery systems. Operating globally within energy, powerIncluded in the U.K. is a 46,000 square foot manufacturing/administration/research and processing markets, development facility.

Orbital Gas Systems manufactures and delivers a broad range ofintegrated engineering solutions and technologies including environmental monitoring, gas metering, process control, telemetry, gas sampling and BioMethane.

Orbital Gas Systems has developed a portfolio of products, services and resourcesBioMethane to offer a diverse range of personalized gas engineering solutions to the gas utilities, power generation, emissions, manufacturing and automotive industries.grid solutions. Its proprietary VE®VE® Technology enhances the capability and speed of our GasPT®GasPT® Technology. VE Technology® provides a superior method of penetrating the gas flow without the associated vortex vibration, thereby making it a ‘‘stand-alone’’ product for thermal sensing (thermowells) and trace-element sampling.

We work with several independent licensors for whose intellectual property we compete with other manufacturers. Rights to such intellectual property, when acquired by us, are usually exclusiveUnder the United States Trademark Act of 1946, as amended, and the agreements require ussystem of international registration of trademarks governed by international treaties, the Madrid Agreement, which maintains the international register and, in several instances, direct trademark registration in foreign countries, our discontinued operations maintain up to pay the licensor a royalty on our net sales of the item. These license agreements, in some cases, also provide for advance royalties and minimum guarantees to maintain technical rights and exclusivity.

GasPT®

Through an exclusive licensing contract with DNV GL, CUI Global owns exclusive rights to manufacture, sell and distribute a gas quality inferential measurement device designed by DNV GL on a worldwide basis, now marketed as the GasPT. The Company has minimum commitments, including royalty payments, under this licensing contract.

The GasPT, is a low-cost solution for measuring natural gas quality. The customary method for determining the properties of Natural Gas has traditionally been Gas Chromatography (GC). This time-tested methodology is a versatile and historically established technology, however, its conservative format has rooted a number of issues and problems. GasPT’s unique combination of features enables it to eliminate the anachronisms found in traditional gas properties analyzers to provide:

Near real time and continuous analysis that enhances sampling frequency eliminating uncertainty;

The lowest operational cost of any equivalent instrument;

Installed in hours not days;

No utility or carrier gas required;

Accredited industry standard accuracy;

No ongoing calibration required;

Virtually no maintenance required;

No configuration or set-up required (“Plug & Play”); and

No highly skilled personnel needed for day to day operation.

The GasPT includesdate the following approvals:

Fiscal approvals:

OIML R140 - Class A;

Class 1 Div 2;

Hazardous Area approvals:

Class 1 Div 2;

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Zone 1;

ATEX;

IECEx; and

CSA.

When connected to a natural gas systemtrademarks: GasPT, provides a fast, accurate, close to real time measurement of the physical properties of the gas, such as thermal conductivity, speed of sound and carbon dioxide content. From these measurements it infers an effective gas mixture comprising five components: methane, ethane, propane, nitrogen, and measured carbon dioxide and then uses ISO6976 to calculate the gas quality characteristics of calorific value (CV), Wobbe index (WI), relative density (RD), and compression factor (Z). An ISO, International Organization for Standardization, is a documented agreement containing technical specifications or other precise criteria to be used consistently as rules, guidelines or definitions of characteristics to ensure that materials, products, processes and services are fit for their purpose.

This innovative technology has been certified for use in fiscal monitoring by Ofgem in the United Kingdom, the Polish Oil & Gas Company Department of Testing and Calibration in Warsaw, NOVA Chemical/TransCanada in Canada, the Pipeline Research Counsel International (PRCI) in the US, ENGIE (the French energy giant), and NMi & The International Organization of Legal Metrology (‘‘OIML’’). There is no equivalent product competition. There are instruments like gas chromatographs (‘‘GC’’) that technically can be considered competition, but they are slow, complicated to use and as much as five times the installed price of the GasPT.

VE Technology®

During the year ended 2019, Orbital held exclusive worldwide rights to manufacture, sell, design, and otherwise market the VE-Probe, VE sample system, VE thermowell and VE Technology® from its United Kingdom-based inventor, EnDet Ltd. The agreement, which included certain royalty commitments and provided Orbital exclusive and sole control of all technology related to its revolutionary GasPT natural gas metering systems.  On January 1, 2020,IRIS, Orbital Gas Systems, purchased theand VE Technology related intellectual property for 1.5 million British Pounds, approximately $2 million dollars. The acquisition of the VE Technology intellectual property requires no ongoing royalties or other fees, providing CUI Global full control of the technology.Technology.

 

The VE sampling probeAs of December 31, 2021, Orbital UK was considered held for sale and sample system are designed for the representative measurement of calorific value and trace elements such as moisture, H2S and mercury faster, more simply and more efficiently. VE sample systems are simple, optimized systemsits assets were written down to deliver representative samples to any analyzer with no dead volume, threaded connections or componentstheir expected sale price, resulting in the sample pathway.

The VE Technology provides for:

Patented helical strakes to eliminate vortex shedding and the need for wake calculations;

Option of fixed or retractable sampling probe;

Allows for sampling to be taken from the central 1/3 of the pipelinea $9.2 million impairment in practically any application;2021.   

Patented aerodynamic sampling probe tip ensures particulate is actively rejected to minimize filtration and avoid contamination of samples allowing for small bore to optimize sample transit time;

Reduced internal volume with all surfaces electropolished (and coated when required) for optimum response;

VE Conditioning Unit preheats the gas to avoid retrograde condensation due to the Joule Thomson effect;

Removes all components and other flow disturbing elements from the sample pathway;

Provides precise flow and pressure control and monitoring with full ASME/PED approved relief valve; and

Easy validation and backflush built into the sample probe system.

The VE Technology allows for very quick and simple customization to suit applications including: Natural gas sampling;

Trace element sampling;

Moisture (H20) sampling;

Mercury (Hg) sampling;

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) sampling;

Oil sampling; 

 

5

 

Chemical sampling;

Continuous automated and manual sample systems;

LNG sample systems;

Bespoke sample conditioning units;

Tailored solutions for drier beds, MRUs, fiscal metering, super critical phase process and many more.

GasPTi - combined GasPT and VE Technology Solution

The GasPTi, combines the two patented technologies of GasPT and VE Technology which provides a completely re-engineered approach to Natural gas sampling and analysis. Through the combination of the fast and accurate measurement of the physical properties of Natural Gas utilizing the GasPT technology with the equally unique VE Technology that can provide a gas sample from a high-pressure transmission line in less than two seconds, Orbital has created the GasPTi metering system.

The GasPTi metering system can accurately provide nearly real-time data to the natural gas operator in a total cycle-time of less than five seconds. It provides this analysis at a fraction of the installation cost of current technology with none of the associated maintenance, carrier gas, calibration gas, or other ancillary costs associated with traditional technology.

The GasPTi is a complete, compact, low cost, integrated solution that can be flange mounted directly to the pipeline or onto a nearby wall or post to provide continuous measurement, requiring no carrier or calibration gases or maintenance. By design, GasPTi removes the need for expensive conditioning equipment, filters, pressure and flow control systems, long heated sample lines and a large cabinet/cubicle with HVAC with few hazardous areas limitations (certified for Zone 1 applications) and no specially trained personnel required for installation or technical support required onsite. The GasPT technology measures and analyzes the VE gathered samples, calculating thermal conductivity, speed of sound and CO2 in the natural gas, providing end users the Calorific Value need to control their systems. Typical appliatons for GasPTi include:

Analysis of Natural Gas in power plants for quality control and turbine optimization;

Analysis of Natural Gas for control, blending and custody transfer across gas transmission and distribution networks;

Pipeline monitoring;

Analysis of Natural Gas for large volume users to optimize process or combustion (glass manufacture, heat treatement, brickworks (kilns), fiber glass manufacturing);

Offshore platform production monitoring;

Gas quality measurement at storage facilities;

Analysis of Natural Gas for quality control, development and product performance (turbine manufacturers, gas appliance manufacturers);

Analysis fo Bio-Natural Gas in pre-processing plants;

Existing gas chromatograph systems for performance checking and validation;

Analysis of Natural Gas in liquefaction and regasification plants (LNG regasification and storage);

Marine safety applications for bulk LNG transportation and LNG driven marine engines;

Determination of calorific value on compressors or gas transfer stations;

Gas blending and ballasting; and

Analysis of calorific value in Natural Gas preparation plants.

BioMethane

From its inception Orbital has been involved in the control of BioMethane, or Renewable Natural Gas to grid. In fact our background in environmental and renewables analysis goes back more than 30 years to protecting basic landfill gas generators.

BioMethane gas (produced wherever organic material is decaying) can be, and is a significant source of environmentally-friendly, carbon neutral energy throughout the world. The specific advantages of BioMethane as a source of energy is that it uses already-existing pipeline infrastructure to quickly and efficiently deliver energy to the end-user, who, in most cases, is already connected to the grid.

6

Orbital’s recognized expertise in energy measurement, process control and odorization offered a complete package that led to designing, building and instigating the very first UK BioMethane-To-Grid system.

Today, Orbital’s BioMethane systems range from basic monitoring through complete “flange-to-flange” solutions that include:

Energy measurement;

Gas quality measurements;

Fiscal metering system;

Pressure control including slam-shut valve;

Interface control rack / flow computation rack;

Gas odorization system;

BioMethane recirculation facility;

Reject gas pressure control; and

Liquid propane injection system

Anticipated Growth Strategy

Our strategy includes:

We will continue to market our GasPT inferential natural gas monitoring device, VE technology products, and other product and integrated solutions. 

Acquire and/or develop greenfield companies focused on energy infrastructure services to include oil and gas, renewable energy including gas and solar, telecommunications services, and electric utility transmission, delivery and substation related services.

For GasPT, our strategy has been to identify the large gas utility companies who would most likely provide opportunities for batch sales rather than single unit sales. This approach has focused most significantly on the United Kingdom, Europe and North America. The Company will continue its efforts in those areas.

Orbital will continue to work with its distribution partner SAMSON AG for the GasPT. Through a distribution agreement, SAMSON AG may introduce the technology in various territories wherein Orbital has no access, including, but not limited to China, Russia, various CIS countries, and throughout Asia.

Beyond this, our strategy is based on identification of the main geographic locations for liquefied natural gas importation (pipelines and terminals), mixing and blending points and strategic locations for security of supply strategies, which can be current or planned pipelines and import terminals where additional gas quality monitoring may be required.

Orbital continues to develop new integrated solutions, promote existing technologies, and increase customer relationships.

Profitably grow organically and through acquisitions into infrastructure services within the electric power, telecommunications and renewables markets.
 

The Company will continueWe are committed to identifyfostering greater diversity within the industries we serve, ensuring that people of color and minority-owned and/or operated businesses have ample opportunities to utilize the unique VE Technology beyond the existing product offering, with a focus on gas sampling, thermowells,join in and trace element sampling applications.benefit from our growth.

During 2016, Orbital signed a TechnologyContinuing to enhance our service capabilities, expand existing and Patent License Agreement with Daily Thermetrics, a globally-respected designnew customer relationships and manufacturing company providing process industries with precise temperature measurement instrumentation. The Agreement calls for the manufacture and sale of the patented natural gas sampling VE Technology in North America.broaden our geographic footprint.

Orbital will continue to market its BioMethane solution globally as the demand for clean renewable energy continues to increase.

The Company will expand its service capabilities for gas and LNG facilities in North America.

The Company will continue to seek new opportunities to design, manufacture, and produce innovative solutions to increase customer reach, product innovation, and growth.

ISO 9001:2015 Certification

Orbital Gas Systems, Ltd. and Orbital Gas Systems, North America Inc. are certified to the ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management Systems standards and guidelines. These entities are registered as conforming to the requirements of standard: ISO 9001:2015. Orbital’s Quality Management Systems are designed to safeguard product quality, health and safety and the environment through the design, manufacture, supply and commissioning (and consulting on); sampling and analysis equipment, and system and process instrumentation.ISO 9001 is accepted worldwide as the inclusive international standard that defines quality.

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Orbital-UK's Environmental Management System has also been verified by an independent third party (NQA) as complying with the requirements of BS EN ISO 14001:2008. This assists Orbital in meeting applicable environmental legislation and to control the environmental aspects of our activities as a company.

The certification of compliance with ISO 9001:2015 recognizes that our policies, practices and procedures ensure consistent quality in the design services, technology and products we provide to our customers.

 

Acquisition Strategy

We are constantly alert to potential

Our acquisition strategy is focused on pursuing targets with a specific focus on energy infrastructure services. As partprofitability that is equal to or greater than that of our acquisition strategy,  we are focused on acquiring targets with positive EBITDA and margins that are better than the industry average, withpeers, revenue visibility, good outlook for growth, havinglong-standing customer relationships and entrepreneurial leaders with demonstrated excellencea proven track record in operations management and who have their growth presently constrained by their balance sheet. We will considermanagement. Due diligence is performed on each potential acquisition as they arise with a careful analysis of thetarget to identify relevant synergies with our current business, along with the potential for increasing revenue, earnings and/or market share.and shareholder value.

 

Research and Development Activities

Research and development costs for CUI Global's continuing operations were approximately $0.1 million, $0.2 million and $0.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively. Research and development costs are related to the various technologies for which CUI Global has acquired licensing rights or is developing internally. The expenditures for research and development have been directed primarily towards the further development

6

 

Employees

As of December 31, 2019, CUI Global,2021, Orbital Energy Group, Inc., together with its consolidated subsidiaries, had 257 employees including 112 employees at its discontinued operations in Canada and Japan. As of December 31, 2019, 73 of its1,329 employees in Canada are represented by a labor union.continuing operations and 111 employees in discontinued operations. This is a decreasean increase in total employees from the 357284 total employees reported as of December 31, 2018 and the same number2020. As of unionized employees as at December 31, 2018.2021, 203 of its employees are members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers or IBEW, which is an increase from zero IBEW members as of December 31, 2020. Most of the decreaseincrease in employees relates to the saleacquisitions of Front Line Power Construction, LLC, and Gibson Technical Services and subsidiaries IMMCO, Inc. and Full Moon Telecom, LLC along with the Company's domesticgrowth of Orbital Power, Inc. and Electromechanical business in 2019.Eclipse Foundation Group operations during 2021. The Company considers its relations withvalues all of its employees and fosters a good working relationship. As the company continues to be good. The Company may addincrease revenues, additional staff as neededmay be added to handle all phases of itsadequately support the business.

Intellectual Property Protection

The Company relies on various intellectual property laws and contractual restrictions to protect its proprietary rights in products, logos and services. These include confidentiality, invention assignment and nondisclosure agreements with employees, contractors, suppliers and strategic partners. The confidentiality and nondisclosure agreements with employees, contractors and suppliers are in perpetuity or for a sufficient length of time so as to not threaten exposure of proprietary information.

 

Under the United States Trademark Act of 1946, as amended, and the system of international registration of trademarks governed by international treaties, the Madrid Agreement, which maintains the international register and, in several instances, direct trademark registration in foreign countries, we and our subsidiaries actively maintain up to date the following trademarks: CUI Global, GasPT, IRIS,trademarks for continuing operations: Orbital Solar Services, Orbital Power, Inc., Eclipse Foundation Group, Orbital Renewables, Gibson Technical Services, Front Line Services, LLC, IMMCO, Inc., and Orbital Gas Systems.Full Moon Telecom, LLC.

 

The Company continuously reviews and updates the existing intellectual property filings and files new documentation both nationally and internationally (Patent Cooperation Treaty) in a continuing effort to maintain up-to-date protection of its intellectual property.

 

For those intellectual property applications pending, there is no assurance that the registrations will be granted. Furthermore, the Company is exposed to the risk that other parties may claim the Company infringes their existing patent and trademark rights, which could result incause the Company’s inability to develop and market its products unless the Company enters into licensing agreements with the technology owner or could force the Company to engage in costly and potentially protracted litigation.

 

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Competitive Business Conditions

The natural gas inferential metering device, the GasPT along with our VE Technology, competes in a mature industry with established competitors. There are significant investments being made globally into the natural gas extraction and transportation infrastructure. Our natural gas quality measurement system is a comparably low-cost solution to measuring natural gas quality as compared to our best competition. It can be connected to a natural gas system to provide a fast, accurate, close to real-time measurement of the physical properties, such as thermal conductivity, speed of sound and carbon dioxide content. From these measurements it infers an effective gas mixture comprising five components: methane, ethane, propane, nitrogen and measured carbon dioxide and then uses ISO6976 to calculate the gas quality characteristics of calorific value (CV), Wobbe index (WI), relative density (RD) and compression factor (Z). This technology has been certified for use in fiscal monitoring by Ofgem in the United Kingdom and ARERA in Italy. There is no equivalent product competition. There are instruments like gas chromatographs that are technically competition, but they are slower and more complicated to use and as much as five times the installed price of the GasPT system. Our integrated solutions and services focused on the natural gas and LNG industries face significant competition from local as well as multinational competitors.

Philanthropic Philosophy

One of CUI’s values is generosity, which includes philanthropic giving. We give in our local community and we want to also give in the communitiesmarkets in which we do business. Givingoperate are highly fragmented and highly competitive wherein Orbital Energy Group competes with other contractors, from small local independent companies to large national firms, in most of the geographic markets in which we operate. Several competitors are large companies that have significant financial, technical and marketing resources. Certain barriers to entry exist in the markets in which we operate such as technical expertise, high safety rating requirements, operational experience and quality, and financial resources. From time to time, new competitors that have adequate financial resources and access to technical expertise may become a competitor in our markets. A significant portion of our revenues is comprisedcurrently derived from unit price or fixed price agreements with price often a primary factor in customer project awards; therefore, we could be underbid by our competitors. We believe that as demand for our services increases, customers often consider other factors in choosing a service provider, including technical expertise and experience, safety ratings, financial and operational resources, geographic presence, industry reputation and dependability, which we expect to benefit larger contractors such as us. There can be no assurance, however, that our competitors will not develop the expertise, experience and resources to provide services that are superior in both price and quality to our services, or that we will be able to maintain or enhance our competitive position. Many of both employee service time as well as financial contributionsour customers are able to perform their own infrastructure services similar to the communitieswork we serve.provide. Although these companies currently outsource a significant portion of these services, there can be no assurance that they will continue to do so in the future or that they will not acquire additional in-house capabilities.

 

Item 1A. Risk Factors

 

RISK FACTORS

 

Our business is subject to various risks and uncertainties. Investors should read carefully the following factors as well as the cautionary statements referred to in ‘‘Forward-Looking Statements’’ herein.together with all of the other information in this Form 10-K. If any of the risks and uncertainties described below or elsewhere in this annual report on Form 10-K actually occur, the Company's business, financial condition or results of operations could be materially adversely affected.affected and/or the trading price of our common stock could decline. We also may not be able to achieve our goals or expectations. 

 

Risks Related to Our Business and Operations, Services, Products and Industries We Serve

Historically, we have generated annual losses from operations, and we may need additional funding in the future.

Historically, on an annual basis, we have not generated sufficient revenues from operations to self-fund our capital and operating requirements. For the year ended 2019,2021, we had a net loss of $1.1$61.2 million, and ouran accumulated deficit as of December 31, 2019 was $122.2 million.2021 of $210.9 million, and negative working capital including of $33.3 million, which includes current maturities of long-term debt. If we are not able to generate sufficient income and cash flows from operations to fund our operations and growth plans, we may seek additional capital from equity and debt placements or corporate arrangements. Additional capital may not be available on terms favorable to us, or at all. If we raise additional funds by issuing equity securities, our shareholdersstockholders may experience dilution. Debt financing, if available, may involve restrictive covenants or security interests in our assets. If we raise additional funds through collaboration arrangements with third parties, it may be necessary to relinquish some rights to technologies or products. If we are unable to raise adequate funds or generate them from operations, we may have to delay, reduce the scope of, or eliminate some or all of our growth plans or liquidate some or all of our assets.

 

There is no assurance we will achieve or sustain profitability.

For the year ended December 31, 2019,2021, we had a net loss of $1.1$61.2 million. There is no assurance that we will achieve or sustain profitability. If we fail to achieve or sustain profitability, the price of our common stock could fall and our ability to raise additional capital could be adversely affected.

 

Some

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Acquisitions and strategic investments related to business expansion activities may not be successful and may divert our resources from our existing business activities., negatively affecting our operating results, cash flows and liquidity and may not enhance shareholder value.

Our historical business was a commoditized power and electromechanical parts distribution business, which we have moved to held-for-sale and discontinued operations during 2019. CUI GlobalOrbital Energy Group has focused our business on the acquisition and development of energy infrastructure services.services companies including Front Line Power Construction, LLC, Gibson Technical Services, IMMCO, Inc, Full Moon Telecom, LLC. and Orbital Solar Services (formerly Reach Construction Group, LLC), and the greenfield development of Orbital Power, Inc. and Eclipse Foundation Group. We may not be successful in acquiring energy infrastructure services companies that are commercially viable. We may fail to successfully develop or commercialize such products,services, solutions and servicesproducts that we acquire. Research, development and commercialization of such acquired products,services, solutions and servicesproducts may disproportionately divert our resources from our other business activities. Acquisitions expose us to operational challenges and risks, including the ability to profitably manage and integrate acquired operations, implement internal controls, procedures, financial reporting and accounting systems into our business. In addition, increased indebtedness, earn-out obligations and cash flow requirements may result in cash flow shortages if anticipated revenue and earnings are not realized or are delayed. Other risks for acquisitions include, among other things, the ability to retain and hire qualified personnel, costs to integrate the business and fund capital needs. 

We may not be able to identify suitable acquisitions or investments or may have difficulty obtaining the necessary financing required to complete such acquisitions and investments. We may utilize our common stock, debt instruments, including convertible debt securities, which could dilute the ownership interests of our shareholders. In addition, we may pursue acquisitions our existing shareholders may not agree with. 

We cannot assure you that the indemnifications granted to Orbital Energy Group, Inc. by sellers of acquired companies will be sufficient in amount, scope or duration to fully offset potential liabilities from acquired businesses which may have liabilities that we failed, or were unable, to discover during due diligence processes. Any such liabilities could have a material adverse effect on our business.

Acquisitions could result in operating difficulties, dilution and other harmful consequences.

We expect to continue to pursue acquisitions which require integration into our own business model. We expect to continue to evaluate and enter into discussions regarding a wide array of potential strategic transactions focused on energy infrastructure services. These transactions could be material to our financial condition and results of operations. The process of integrating an acquired company, business or technologies may create unforeseen operating difficulties and expenditures. The areas where we face risks include:

implementation or remediation of controls, procedures and policies of the acquired company;

diversion of management time and focus from operating our business to acquisition integration challenges;

coordination of product, engineering and sales and marketing functions;

transition of operations, users and customers into our existing customs;

cultural challenges associated with integrating employees from the acquired company into our organization;

retention of employees from the businesses we acquire;

integration of the acquired company’s accounting, management information, human resource and other administrative systems;

liability for activities of the acquired company before the acquisition, including patent and trademark infringement claims, violations of laws, commercial disputes, tax liabilities and other known and unknown liabilities;

litigation or other claims in connection with the acquired company, including claims from terminated employees, customers, former shareholders, or other third parties;

in the case of foreign acquisitions, the need to integrate operations across different cultures, time zones, and languages and to address the particular economic, currency, political and regulatory risks associated with specific countries;

failure to successfully further develop the acquired technologies; and

other as yet unknown risks that may impact our business.

Our failure to address these risks or other problems encountered in connection with our past or future acquisitions could cause us to fail to realize the anticipated benefits of such acquisitions, incur unanticipated liabilities and harm our business generally. 

Future acquisitions could also result in dilutive issuances of our equity securities, the incurrence of debt, contingent liabilities or amortization expenses, write-offs of goodwill, or reductions to our tangible net worth any of which could harm our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects. Also, the anticipated benefit of many of our acquisitions may not materialize.

We could incur goodwill and intangible asset impairment expenses, which could negatively impact our profitability.

We have goodwill and intangible assets and will continue to as we acquire new businesses. We periodically review the carrying values of goodwill and intangible assets to determine whether such carrying values exceed their fair market values. Adverse changes in financial, competitive and other conditions such as declines in operating performance or other adverse changes in valuation assumptions could adversely affect the estimated fair values of the related assets and impairment to goodwill or intangible assets. See Note 5 in the notes to the audited consolidated financial statements for further details.

We utilize debt to fund our operations and acquisitions strategy, which could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations or could affect our ability to access capital markets in the future. Our debt may contain restrictive covenants that may prevent Orbital Energy Group from engaging in transactions that might benefit us.

Outstanding debt and related debt service requirements could have significant consequences on our future operations including making it difficult to meet payment and other obligations. Events of default may occur if we fail to comply with the financial and other restrictive covenants included with our debt agreements which could result in an acceleration of our debts becoming due and payable which would negatively impact our ability to fund working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions and investments and could impact our ability to obtain additional financing or limiting access to financing with reasonable terms. 

We cannot assure that our business will generate future cash flow from operations, or that future borrowings will be available to us in an amount sufficient to enable us to meet our payment obligations and to fund other operational and liquidity needs.

In addition, regulatory changes and/or reforms, such as the phase-out of the London Inter-bank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”), which is expected to occur by June 30, 2023, could lead to additional volatility in interest rates and other unpredictable effects. 

 

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We have a significant amount of debt, and our significant indebtedness could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations and our ability to meet our payment obligations under our other debt.

We have a significant amount of debt and debt service requirements. As of December 31, 2021, we had approximately $156.6 million of outstanding debt, net of current maturities and $75.3 million of current maturities including line of credit. A large amount of the debt includes amounts borrowed during 2021 to finance a portion of the closing consideration paid in connection with our acquisition of Front Line Power Construction, LLC. This level of debt could have significant consequences on our future operations, including:

making it more difficult for us to meet our payment and other obligations under our outstanding debt;
an event of default if we fail to comply with the financial and other restrictive covenants contained in our debt agreements, which event of default could result in an acceleration of our debt maturity and higher default-level interest rates.
reducing the availability of our cash flows to fund working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions or strategic investments, and other general corporate purposes, and limiting our ability to obtain additional financing for these purposes;
subjecting us to the risk of increasing interest expense on variable rate indebtedness.
limiting our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, and increasing our vulnerability to changes in our business, the industries in which we operate and the general economy;
limiting our ability to pursue business opportunities that become available to us; and
placing us at a competitive disadvantage compared to our competitors that have less debt or are less leveraged.

Any of the above-listed factors could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations and our ability to meet our payment obligations on our existing indebtedness.

Servicing our debt requires a significant amount of cash, and we may not have sufficient cash flow from our operations to pay our indebtedness.

Our ability to generate cash in order to make scheduled payments on the principal of, to pay interest on or to refinance our indebtedness depends on our future performance, which is subject to economic, financial, competitive, legislative, regulatory and other factors beyond our control. In addition, our ability to borrow funds in the future to make payments on our debt will depend on the satisfaction of the covenants in our current credit agreements and those we may enter into in the future. Specifically, we will need to maintain certain financial ratios. Our business may not continue to generate sufficient cash flow from operations in the future and future borrowings may not be available to us under our senior credit facility or from other sources in an amount sufficient to service our indebtedness, to make necessary capital expenditures or to fund our other liquidity needs. If we are unable to generate cash from our operations or through borrowings, we may be required to adopt one or more alternatives, such as selling assets, restructuring debt or obtaining additional equity capital on terms that may be onerous or highly dilutive. Our ability to make payments on our indebtedness or refinance our indebtedness will depend on factors including the state of the capital markets and our financial condition at such time, as well as the terms of our financing agreements. We may not be able to engage in any of these activities or engage in these activities on desirable terms, which could result in a default on our debt obligations.

We may be unable to obtain sufficient bonding capacity to support certain service offerings, and the need for performance and surety bonds could reduce availability of our available working capital resources.

Some of our contracts require performance and payment bonds. If Orbital Energy Group, Inc. is unable to obtain or renew the necessary bonding capacity, we may be precluded from participation in bidding for certain contracts and from certain customers. Such bonding may require Orbital Energy Group to post letters of credit or other collateral in connection with the bonds, which could reduce our available capacity to support other needs. Standard terms in the surety market allow for sureties to issue bonds on a project-by-project basis. Sureties may decline to issue bonds at any time and can require additional collateral as a condition to issuing or renewing any bonds. 

Changes to laws, governmental regulations and policies, including among other things, permitting processes and tax incentives, could affect demand for our services. Demand for construction services depends on industry activity and expenditure levels which can be affected by numerous factors. An inability to adjust to such changes could result in decreased demand for our services and adversely affect our operating results, cash flows and liquidity.

Government regulations, climate change initiatives, political and social activism each effect the industries Orbital Energy Group, Inc. serves. Changes in such could result in reduced demand for our services, delays in the timing of construction projects and possible cancellation of current or planned projects. Many of our customers must comply with strict regulatory and environmental requirements along with complex permitting processes. Our energy customers are regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (“FERC”), among others. Our utility customers are regulated by state public utility commissions. Changes to existing, or implementation of new regulations and policies could have an adverse effect on our customers resulting in reduced demand for our services. We build renewable energy infrastructure including solar and other renewable energy projects for which the development is often dependent upon federal tax credits, existing renewable portfolio standards and other incentives. Changes to those may delay or otherwise negatively affect the demand for our services and solutions.

Our business and operating results are subject to physical risks associated with climate change.

Changes in climate have caused, and are expected to continue to cause, among other things, increasing temperatures, rising sea levels and changes to patterns and intensity of wildfires, hurricanes, floods, other storms and severe weather-related events and natural disasters. These changes have and could continue to significantly impact our future operating results and may have a long-term impact on our business, results of operation, financial condition and cash flows. While we seek to mitigate our risks associated with climate change, we recognize that there are inherent climate-related risks regardless of how and where we conduct our operations. For example, a catastrophic natural disaster could negatively impact any of our projects or office locations and the locations and service regions of our customers. Accordingly, a natural disaster has the potential to disrupt our business as well as the businesses that we serve and may cause us to experience work stoppages, project delays, financial losses and additional costs to resume operations, including increased insurance costs or loss of coverage, legal liability and reputational losses.

A lack of availability or an increase in the price of fuel, materials or equipment necessary for our business or our customers’ projects could adversely affect our business.

Pursuant to certain contracts, including fixed price and EPC contracts where we have assumed responsibility for procuring materials for a project, we are exposed to availability issues and price increases for materials that are utilized in connection with our operations, including, among other things, copper, steel and aluminum. In addition, the timing of our customers’ ongoing projects, as well as their capital budgets and decision-making with respect to the timing of the future projects, can be negatively impacted by a lack of availability or an increase in prices of certain materials. Prices and availability could be materially impacted by, among other things, supply chain and other logistical challenges, global trade relationships (e.g., tariffs, sourcing restrictions) and other general market and geopolitical conditions (e.g., inflation). For example, recent logistical challenges in connection with the COVID-19 pandemic and sourcing restrictions have resulted in uncertainty concerning availability and pricing of certain commodities and goods important to our and our customers’ businesses, including renewable energy project components (e.g., solar panels). The lack of availability of necessary materials could result in project delays, some of which could be attributable to us, and an increase in prices of materials could reduce our profitability on projects or negatively impact our customers, which could have an adverse effect on demand for our services or our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Additionally, supply chain and other logistical challenges have negatively impacted suppliers of certain equipment necessary for the performance of our business, including, among other things, new vehicles for our fleet (both on-road and specialty vehicles) and vehicle parts (e.g., tires). Based on the significant worldwide shortage of semiconductors, as well as other factors, vehicle manufacturers are experiencing production delays with respect to vehicles we utilize in our operations. To the extent these production issues worsen or become longer-term in nature, our operations could be negatively impacted.

We are also exposed to increases in energy prices, particularly fuel prices for our fleet of vehicles, which have increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, and could increase further due to future regulatory, legislative and policy changes that result from, among other things, war in Ukraine and climate change initiatives. Furthermore, some of our fixed price contracts do not allow us to adjust our prices and, as a result, increases in fuel costs could reduce our profitability with respect to such projects. Our ability to utilize certain existing vehicles within our fleet may also be limited by new emissions or other regulations, and, due to lack of production or availability, we may not be able to procure a sufficient number of vehicles meeting any such regulations. To the extent we are unable to utilize a significant portion of our existing fleet, we may be unable to perform services, which could have an adverse effect on our future financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. The broader and longer-term implications of these challenges, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the transition to a carbon-neutral economy and otherwise, remains highly uncertain and variable and could negatively impact our overall business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

If our manufacturers, suppliers or our suppliersservice providers are unable to provide an adequate supply of products and services, our growth could be limited, and our business could be harmed.

We rely on third parties to supply componentsservices and materials for our integrated solutions and to manufacture our products.construction offerings. In order to grow our business to achieve profitability, we may need our manufacturers and supplierssuch business partners to increase, or scale up, production and supply by a significant factor over current levels. There are technical challenges to scaling up capacity that may require the investment of substantial additional funds by our manufacturers or suppliers and hiring and retaining additional management and technical personnel who have the necessary experience. If our manufacturers and suppliers are unable to do so, we may not be able to meet the requirements to grow our business to anticipated levels. We also may represent only a small portion of our supplier’s or manufacturer’s business, and if they become capacity constrained, they may choose to allocate their available resources to other customers that represent a larger portion of their business.

Our global operations are subject to increased risks, which could harm our business, operating results and financial condition.

Our ability to manage our business and conduct our operations internationally requires considerable management attention and resources and is subject to a number of risks, including the following:

challenges caused by distance, language and cultural differences and by doing business with foreign agencies and governments;

longer payment cycles in some countries;

uncertainty regarding liability for services and content;

credit risk and higher levels of payment fraud;

currency exchange rate fluctuations and our ability to manage these fluctuations;

foreign exchange controls that might prevent us from repatriating cash earned in countries outside the U.S.;

import and export requirements that may prevent us from shipping products or providing services to a particular market and may increase our operating costs;

potentially adverse tax consequences;

higher costs associated with doing business internationally;

political, social and economic instability abroad, terrorist attacks and security concerns in general;

natural disasters, public health issues including impacts from global or national health epidemics and concerns such as the recent coronavirus, and other catastrophic events;

reduced or varied protection for intellectual property rights in some countries; and

different employee/employer relationships and the existence of workers’ councils and labor unions.

challenges caused by distance, and cultural differences and by doing business with foreign agencies and governments;

longer payment cycles in some countries;

uncertainty regarding liability for services and content;

credit risk and higher levels of payment fraud;

currency exchange rate fluctuations and our ability to manage these fluctuations;

foreign exchange controls that might prevent us from repatriating cash earned in countries outside the U.S.;

import and export requirements that may prevent us from shipping products or providing services to a particular market and may increase our operating costs;

potentially adverse tax consequences;

higher costs associated with doing business internationally;

political, social and economic instability abroad, terrorist attacks and security concerns in general;

natural disasters, public health issues including impacts from global or national health epidemics and concerns such as the recent coronavirus, and other catastrophic events;

reduced or varied protection for intellectual property rights in some countries; and

different employee/employer relationships and the existence of workers’ councils and labor unions.

 

In addition, compliance with complex foreign and U.S. laws and regulations that apply to our international operations increases our cost of doing business in international venues and could expose us or our employees to fines and penalties. These numerous and sometimes conflicting laws and regulations include import and export requirements, content requirements, trade restrictions, tax laws, sanctions, internal and disclosure control rules, data privacy requirements, labor relations laws, U.S. laws such as the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and local laws prohibiting corrupt payments to governmental officials. Violations of these laws and regulations could result in fines, civil and criminal penalties against us, our officers or our employees, prohibitions on the conduct of our business and damage to our reputation. Any such violations could include prohibitions on our ability to offer our products and services in one or more countries and could also materially damage our reputation, our brand, our international expansion efforts, our ability to attract and retain employees, our business and our operating results.

 

Our revenues depend on key customers and suppliers.

The Company’s major product and service lines in 2019, 20182021 were electric power, telecommunications, and 2017renewables and in 2020 were electric power and solar infrastructure services, and natural gas infrastructure and high-tech solutions.infrastructure.

 

During 2019, over 31%2021, 26% of revenues were derived from two customers, S&B Engineers with 21% and Costain Oil, Gas & Process Ltd with 10%. During 2018, over 27% of revenues were derived from two customers, National Gridone with 15% and S&B Engineersa second with 12%.11% of total revenues. During  2017, 55%2020, over 53% of revenues were derived from three customers, National Gridone with 26%, Scotia Gas Networks with 18%31%, and S&B Engineerstwo with 11%.

 

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At December 31, 2019,2021, of the gross trade accounts receivable totaling approximately $5.3$50.2 million, there were threetwo individual customers that made up approximately 50%46% of the Company's total trade accounts receivable: Energy Transfer at 24%one customer with 30%, Costain Oil, Gas and Process Ltd at 14% and S&B Engineers at 12%one customer with 16%. At  December 31, 2018,2020, of the gross trade accounts receivable totaling approximately $5.1$6.9 million, approximately 38%70% was due from twofour customers: Costain Oil, Gas & Process Ltd at 24%one with 27%, a second with 16% a third with 16%, and National Grid at 14%a fourth with 11%.

 

During 2019, 2018, and 2017,2021 the Company did not have anyhad one supplier concentrations that provided over 10%made up 12% of purchases included in cost of revenues and in 2020, the Company has three suppliers that made up 39% of our inventory purchases.

The United Kingdom operationspurchases included in cost of Orbital result in foreign revenuerevenues, with 14%, 13% and accounts receivable concentrations in the United Kingdom12%, for the year ended and at December 31, 2019 of 57% and 49%, respectively, for the year ended and at December 31, 2018 of 74% and 80%, respectively and for the year ended and at December 31, 2017, of 77% and 79%, respectively.three suppliers.

 

There is no assurance that we will continue to maintain all of our existing key customers or vendors in the future. Should we, for any reason, discontinue our business relationship with any one of these key customers, the impact to our revenue stream would be substantial. For additional information on our concentrations, see Note 15 – Concentrations.

 

The novel coronavirus outbreak, or other similar pandemic, epidemic or outbreak of infectious disease, could adversely impact our business, financial condition and results of operations and acquisitions.

In January 2020, the World Health Organization declared the novel coronavirus outbreak originating in Wuhan, China to be a public health emergency, prompting precautionary government-imposed travel restrictions and temporary closures of business operations, and in March 2020, the outbreak was declared to be a pandemic. Certain of our suppliers and the manufacturers of certain of our products may be adversely impacted by the novel coronavirus outbreak. As a result, we may face delays or difficulty sourcing products and services, which could negatively affect our business and financial results. Even if we are able to find alternate sources for such products and services, they may cost more, which could adversely impact our results of operations and financial condition. If we temporarily close our locations for periods of time or if our partners temporarily close, demand for our products and services may be reduced, and our revenues, results of operations and financial condition could be materially adversely affected.

At this time, there is significant uncertainty relating to the potential effect of the novel coronavirus on our business. Infections have become more widespread, which may worsen the supply shortage or force us to restrict our operations. In addition, due to the further spread of the outbreak where we have corporate offices, we have implemented various measures including remote working solutions, reduced hours, adjusted shifts, and placed various restrictions on access to our offices, which could negatively impact productivity, particularly if we restrict access to our offices for a longer period of time. Any of these occurrences may have a negative impact on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

A significant outbreak of COVID-19 and other infectious diseases could result in a widespread health crisis that could adversely affect the economies and financial markets worldwide, and the business of any potential target business with which we consummate a business combination could be materially and adversely affected. Furthermore, we may be unable to complete a business combination if continued concerns relating to COVID-19 restrict travel, limit the ability to have meetings with potential investors or the target company’s personnel, vendors and services providers are unavailable to negotiate and consummate a transaction in a timely manner. The extent to which COVID-19 impacts our search for a business combination will depend on future developments, which are highly uncertain and cannot be predicted, including new information which may emerge concerning the severity of COVID-19 and the actions to contain COVID-19 or treat its impact, among others. If the disruptions posed by COVID-19 or other matters of global concern continue for an extensiveextended period of time, our ability to consummate a business combination, or the operations of a target business with which we ultimately consummate a business combination, may be materially adversely affected.

 

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Unfavorable market conditions, market uncertainty, and/or economic downturns could reduce capital expenditures in the industries we serve.

Demand for our products, solutions and services has been, and will likely continue to be cyclical in nature. We are vulnerable to general downturns in the U.S. economy and those of the countries in which we operate. Unfavorable market conditions, market uncertainty, and/or economic downturns could have a negative effect on demand from our customers and our customers health. During such times, our customers may not have the ability to fund capital expenditures for infrastructure due to difficulty obtaining financing when there may be limited availability of debt or equity financing. This could result in project cancellations or deferral which could materially adversely affect our results of operations, cash flows and liquidity. 

Demand for alternative energy sources and legislative and regulatory changes, the volatility of oil and gas markets, among others, are beyond our control. Such economic factors can negatively affect our results of operations, cash flows and liquidity.

Our failure to properly manage projects, or project delays, could result in additional costs or claims, which could have a material adverse effect on our operating results, cash flows and liquidity.

Certain of our engagements occur over extended time periods and involve large-scale, complex projects. Our ability to manage our client relationship and the project itself, such as the timely deployment of appropriate resources, including third-party contractors and our own personnel will impact the quality of our project performance. Our results of operations, cash flows and liquidity could be adversely affected if we miscalculate the resources or time needed to complete a project with capped or fixed fees, or the resources or time needed to meet contractual milestones.

We perform work under a variety of conditions, including, but not limited to, challenging and hard to reach terrain and difficult site conditions. Performing work under such conditions can result in project delays or cancellations, potentially causing us to incur unanticipated costs, reductions in revenue or the payment of liquidated damages. In addition, some of our contracts require that we assume the risk should actual site conditions vary from those expected. Some of our projects involve challenging engineering, procurement and construction phases, which may occur over extended time periods. We may encounter difficulties in engineering, delays in designs or materials provided by the customer or our vendors and subcontractors, equipment and material delivery delays, permitting delays, weather-related delays, schedule changes, delays from customer failure to timely obtain rights-of-way, delays by subcontractors in completing their portion of projects and governmental, market and political or other factors, some of which are beyond our control and could affect our ability to complete a project as originally scheduled. In some cases, delays and additional costs may be substantial, and/or we may be required to cancel or defer a project and/or compensate the customer for the delay. We may not be able to recover any of such costs. Any such delays, cancellations, errors or other failures to meet customer expectations could result in damage claims substantially in excess of the revenue associated with a project. Delays or cancellations could also negatively affect our reputation or relationships with our customers, which could adversely affect our ability to secure new contracts.

We could also encounter project delays due to opposition, including political and social activism, and such delays could adversely affect our project margins. In addition, some of our agreements require that we share in cost overages or pay liquidated damages if we do not meet project deadlines; therefore, any failure to properly estimate or manage cost, or delays in the completion of projects, could subject us to penalties, which could adversely affect our results of operations, cash flows and liquidity. Further, any defects or errors, or failures to meet our customers’ expectations, could result in large damage claims against us. Due to the substantial cost of, and potentially long lead-times necessary to acquire certain of the materials and equipment used in our complex projects, damage claims could substantially exceed the amount we can charge for our associated services.

Fixed price contracts include risk that estimated costs are not accurate. We recognize revenue for certain projects using the cost-to-cost method of accounting and variations to assumptions could reduce profitability.

Some of our contracts include fixed price master service and other service arrangements in which the price of our services may be set on a per unit or aggregate basis. Our ability to accurately estimate the costs associated with our products, solutions and services and our ability to execute within those estimates is necessary for the success of those efforts. 

For certain projects we recognize revenue over time utilizing the cost-to-cost method of accounting whereby the percentage of revenue to be recognized in a period is measured by the percentage of the costs incurred to date relative to the total estimated costs for the contract. This method relies upon estimates of total estimated costs. Contract revenue and cost estimates are reviewed and revised on an ongoing basis as work progresses with adjustments recognized in the fiscal period in which the changes are made. 

Estimates are based upon management’s reasonable assumptions, judgment and experience. There are inherent risks in estimates, including unanticipated delays, technical complications, job conditions, and other factors including management’s assessment of expected variables. Any such adjustments could negatively affect the results of operations, cash flows, and liquidity.

We may fail to adequately recover on claims against project owners, subcontractors or suppliers for payment or performance.

From time to time, we may bring claims against project owners for additional costs that exceed the contract price or for amounts not included in the original contract. We may also present change orders and claims to our subcontractors and suppliers. Failure to properly document the nature of change orders or claims or other reasons that may result in unsuccessful negotiations for settlement could result in reduced profits, cost overruns or project losses. 

Our subcontractors and suppliers may fail or be unable to satisfy their obligations to us or other parties, or we may be unable to maintain these relationships, either of which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, cash flows and liquidity.

We depend on subcontractors to perform work for some of our projects. There is a risk that we could have disputes with subcontractors arising from, among other things, the quality and timeliness of the work they perform, customer concerns, or our failure to extend existing work orders or issue new work orders under a subcontracting arrangement. Our ability to fulfill our obligations as a prime contractor could be jeopardized if any of our subcontractors fail to perform the agreed-upon services on a timely basis and/or deliver the agreed-upon supplies. In addition, the absence of qualified subcontractors with whom we have satisfactory relationships could adversely affect our ability to perform under some of our contracts, or the quality of the services we provide. Additionally, in some cases, we pay our subcontractors before our customers pay us for the related services. We could experience a material decrease in profitability and liquidity if we pay our subcontractors for work performed for customers that fail to or delay paying us for the related work. Any of these factors could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, cash flows and liquidity.

We also rely on suppliers, equipment manufacturers and lessors to obtain or provide the materials and equipment we require to conduct our operations. Any substantial limitation on the availability of suppliers or equipment, including from economic, regulatory or market conditions, could negatively affect our operations. Our results of operations, cash flows and liquidity could be adversely affected if we were unable to acquire sufficient materials or equipment to conduct our operations.

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We include amounts in backlog that may not result in actual revenue or translate into profits. 

Our backlog may be subject to cancellation and unexpected adjustments, as such, it is an uncertain indicator of future operating results. OEG’s backlog includes estimated amounts of revenue we expect to realize from future work on uncompleted contracts, revenue from change orders and renewal options, and master service agreements. Some of these may be cancellable on short or no advance notice. Backlog amounts are determined based on contract price, estimates of work to be completed under contracts taking into account historical trends, experience on similar projects and estimates of customer demand based upon communications with our customers. In the past, we have experienced postponements, cancellations and reduction in expected future work due to customers’ changing plans, market volatility, regulatory and other factors. There can be no assurance that actual results will be consistent with the estimates included in our forecasts and as such backlog as of any particular date is an uncertain indicator of future revenue and earnings. 

We are a relatively small energy infrastructure services business and face formidable competition.

We are a relatively small company with limited capitalization in comparison to many of our international competitors. Because of our size and capitalization, we believe that we have not yet established sufficient market awareness that is essential to our continued growth and success in all of our markets. We face formidable competition in every aspect of our business from other companies, many of whom have greater name recognition, more resources and broader productservice offerings than ours.

 

We also expect competition to intensify in the future. For example, the market for our inferential natural gas monitoring device, the GasPT, is emerging and is characterized by rapid technological change, evolving industry standards, increasing data requirements, frequent new product introductions and shortening product life cycles. Our future success in keeping pace with technological developments and achieving product acceptance depends upon our ability to enhance our current products and to continue to develop and introduce new product offerings and enhanced performance features and functionality on a timely basis at competitive prices. Our inability, for technological or other reasons, to enhance, develop, introduce or deliver compelling products in a timely manner, or at all, in response to changing market conditions, technologies or customer expectations, could have a material adverse effect on our operating results and growth prospects. Our ability to compete successfully will depend in large measure on our ability to maintain a technically skilled development and engineering staff and to adapt to technological changes and advances in the industry, including providing for the continued compatibility of our products and solutions with evolving industry standards and protocols in a competitive environment.

AcquisitionsThe industries we serve are highly competitive and subject to rapid technological and regulatory change as well as customer consolidation. Any of these could result in operating difficulties, dilutiondecreased demand for our services, solutions and other harmful consequences.

We expect to continue to pursue acquisitionsproducts which require integration intocould adversely affect our own business model. We expect to continue to evaluate and enter into discussions regarding a wide array of potential strategic transactions focused on energy infrastructure services. These transactions could be material to our financial condition and results of operations. The process of integrating an acquired company, business or technologies may create unforeseen operating difficulties and expenditures. The areas where we face risks include:

implementation or remediation of controls, procedures and policies of the acquired company;

diversion of management time and focus from operating our business to acquisition integration challenges;

coordination of product, engineering and sales and marketing functions;

transition of operations, users and customers into our existing customs;

cultural challenges associated with integrating employees from the acquired company into our organization;

retention of employees from the businesses we acquire;

integration of the acquired company’s accounting, management information, human resource and other administrative systems;

liability for activities of the acquired company before the acquisition, including patent and trademark infringement claims, violations of laws, commercial disputes, tax liabilities and other known and unknown liabilities;

litigation or other claims in connection with the acquired company, including claims from terminated employees, customers, former shareholders, or other third parties;

in the case of foreign acquisitions, the need to integrate operations across different cultures and languages and to address the particular economic, currency, political and regulatory risks associated with specific countries;

failure to successfully further develop the acquired technologies; and

other as yet unknown risks that may impact our business.

Our failure to address these risks or other problems encountered in connection with our past or future acquisitions could cause us to fail to realize the anticipated benefits of such acquisitions, incur unanticipated liabilities and harm our business generally. For example, a majority of Orbital-UK’s revenues for each of its last two fiscal years has come from a small number of customers. If we fail to continue to do business with Orbital-UK’s primary customers at substantially similar or greater levels than recent historical levels, our financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and growth prospects would be significantly harmed.liquidity.

Future acquisitions could also resultWe compete with other companies in dilutive issuancesmost of the markets in which we operate that range from small independent firms serving local markets to larger regional, national and international firms. Some of our equity securities,customers employ in-house personnel to perform some of the incurrenceservices we provide. Most of debt, contingent liabilities or amortization expenses, write-offs of goodwill, or reductions to our tangible net worth any ofcustomers’ work is awarded through bid processes, and our project bids may not be successful which could harmmaterially adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and prospects. Also,liquidity. 

Technological advances in the anticipated benefitmarkets we serve could change our customers’ operating models and project requirements. Governmental regulations may also change our customers’ project requirements and our ability to adapt to those changing requirements could reduce the demand for our solutions, services and products. 

Our business is subject to operational risk, including from operational and physical hazards that could result in substantial liabilities and negatively affect our financial condition.

Due to the nature of manythe services we provide and the conditions in which we operate, our business is subject to operational hazards. Though we invest in substantial resources to provide for safety including occupational health and safety programs and by carrying appropriate amounts of insurance coverage, there can be no assurance that we will be able to mitigate all hazards, including electricity, fires, explosions, mechanical failures and weather-related incidents. This could result in significant liability. The risks faced by our personnel can cause personal injuries and loss of life, severe damage to or destruction of property and equipment and other consequential damages which could lead to large damage claims, suspension of operations, government enforcement actions, regulatory penalties, civil litigation or criminal prosecution. These costs could exceed the amount we charge for the associated products, solutions and services.

If serious accidents or fatalities occur, or if our safety records deteriorate, we could be restricted from bidding on certain projects, obtaining new customers or contracts, and contracts could be terminated. Accidents in the course of our acquisitions may not materialize.business could result in significant liabilities, employee turnover and/or an increase to the costs of our projects. 

 

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We will need to grow our organization and we may encounter difficulties in managing this growth.

As of December 31, 2019, CUI Global,2021, Orbital Energy Group, Inc., together with its consolidated subsidiaries, had 1451,329 full-time employees excluding 112111 employees at our discontinued operations, primarily in Canada.operations. We expect to experience growth in the number of our employees and the scope of our operations as we follow our growth strategy. To manage our anticipated future growth, we must continue to implement and improve our managerial, operational and financial systems, expand our facilities and continue to recruit and train additional qualified personnel. Also, our management may need to divert a disproportionate amount of its attention away from our day-to-day activities and devote a substantial amount of time to managing these growth activities. Due to our limited resources, we may not be able to effectively manage the expansion of our operations or recruit and train additional qualified personnel, which may result in weaknesses in our infrastructure, give rise to operational mistakes, loss of business opportunities, loss of employees and reduced productivity among remaining employees. The physical expansion of our operations may lead to significant costs and may divert financial resources from other projects, such as the development of new products, solutions and services. If our management is unable to effectively manage our expected growth, our expenses may increase more than expected, our ability to generate or increase our revenue could be reduced and we may not be able to implement our business strategy. Our future financial performance and our ability to commercialize new products, solutions and services and compete effectively will depend, in part, on our ability to effectively manage any future growth.

 

Our operating results willmay vary over time and such fluctuations could cause the market price of our common stock to decline.

Our operating results may fluctuate significantly due to a variety of factors, many of which are outside of our control. Because revenues for any future period are not predictable with any significant degree of certainty, you should not rely on our past results as an indication of our future performance. If our revenues or operating results fall below the expectations of investors or securities analysts or below any estimates we may provide to the market, the price of our common shares would likely decline substantially. Factors that could cause our operating results and stock price to fluctuate include, among other things:

varying demand for our products, solutions and services due to the financial and operating condition of our customers, and general economic conditions;

inability of our suppliers and subcontractors to meet our demand;

success and timing of new product, solutions and services introductions by us and the performance of those generally;

announcements by us or our competitors regarding products, solutions, services, promotions or other transactions;

costs related to responding to government inquiries related to regulatory compliance;

our ability to control and reduce product, solutions and services costs;

changes in the manner in which we sell products, solutions and services;

volatility in foreign exchange rates, changes in interest rates and/or the availability and cost of financing or other working capital to our customers; and

the impact of write downs of excess and obsolete inventory.

varying demand for our products, solutions and services due to the financial and operating condition of our customers, and general economic conditions;

inability of our suppliers and subcontractors to meet our demand;

success and timing of new product, solutions and services introductions by us and the performance of those generally;

announcements by us or our competitors regarding products, solutions, services, promotions or other transactions;

costs related to responding to government inquiries related to regulatory compliance;

our ability to control and reduce product, solutions and services costs;

changes in the manner in which we sell products, solutions and services;

volatility in foreign exchange rates, changes in interest rates and/or the availability and cost of financing or other working capital to our customers.

 

Our operating expenses willmay increase as we make further expenditures to enhance and expand our operations in order to support additional growth in our business and national stock market reporting and compliance obligations.

In the future, we expect our operations and marketing investments to increase to support our anticipated growth and as a result of our listing on the NASDAQNasdaq Stock Market. We have made significant investments in using professional services and expanding our operations outside the United States.operations. We may make additional investments in personnel and continue to expand our operations to support anticipated growth in our business. In addition, we may determine the need in the future to increase our direct sales force, add distributors and sales representatives to market and sell our products, solutions and services. Such changes to our existing sales model would likely result in higher selling, general and administrative expenses as a percentage of our revenues. We expect such increased investments could adversely affect operating income in the short term while providing long-term benefit.

 

Our business depends on a strong brand and failing to maintain and enhance our brand would hurt our ability to expand our base of customers.

We believe that we have not yet established sufficient market awareness in our various markets. Market awareness of our capabilities and products, solutions and services is essential to our continued growth and our success in all of our markets. We expect the brand identity that we have developed through GasPTacquired with platform companies, Front Line Power Construction, LLC, and Gibson Telecom Services along with developing brand identity with Orbital Solar Services and Orbital Gas Systems toPower, Inc. will significantly contribute to the success of our business. Maintaining and enhancing these brands is critical to expanding our base of customers. If we fail to maintain and enhance our brands, or if we incur excessive expenses in this effort, our business, operating results and financial condition willcould be materially and adversely affected. Maintaining and enhancing our brands will depend largely on our ability to be a technology leader and continue to provide high-quality products,services, solutions, and services,products, which we may not do successfully.

 

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New entrants in our markets may harm our competitive position.

New entrants seeking to gain market share by introducing new technology, products,services, solutions and servicesproducts may make it more difficult for us to sell our products,services, solutions and servicesproducts and could create increased pricing pressure, reduced profit margins, increased sales and marketing expenses or the loss of market share or expected market share, any of which may significantly harm our business, operating results and financial condition.

 

Adverse conditions in the global economy and disruption of financial markets may significantly restrict our ability to generate revenues or obtain debt or equity financing.

The global economy continues to experience volatility and uncertainty and governments in many countries continue to evaluate and implement spending cuts designed to reduce budget deficits. These conditions and deficit reduction measures could reduce demand for our products and services, including through reduced government infrastructure projects, which would significantly jeopardize our ability to achieve our sales targets. These conditions could also affect our potential strategic partners, which in turn, could make it more difficult to execute a strategic collaboration. Moreover, volatility and disruption of financial markets could limit our customers’ ability to obtain adequate financing or credit to purchase and pay for our products, solutions and services in a timely manner, or to maintain operations and result in a decrease in sales volume. General concerns about the fundamental soundness of domestic and international economies may also cause customers to reduce purchases. Changes in governmental banking, monetary and fiscal policies to restore liquidity and increase credit availability may not be effective. Economic conditions and market turbulence may also impact our suppliers’ and subcontractors’ ability to supply sufficient resources in a timely manner, which could impair our ability to fulfill sales orders. It is difficult to determine the extent of the economic and financial market problems and the many ways in which they may affect our suppliers, customers, investors and business in general. Continuation or further deterioration of these financial and macroeconomic conditions could significantly harm sales, profitability and results of operations.

��

OneSome of our subsidiariesoperations and certain suppliers isand customers are located in an areaareas subject to natural disasters or other events that could stop us from having our products made or shipped or could result in a substantial delay in our production or development activities.

We have sales, developmentMany of our operating units and manufacturing resourcescustomers are located in and around Houston, Texas.Texas, Eclipse Foundation Group is located in Gonzales, Louisiana, and Full Moon Telecom is located in Florida. The risk of hurricanes and other natural disasters in thisthese geographic area isareas are significant due to the proximity of this subsidiary to the coast and itstheir propensity to flood. Despite precautions taken by us and our third-party providers, a natural disaster or other unanticipated problems, at our location in Texaslocations or at third-party providers could cause interruptions in the products that we provide.to our operations. Any disruption resulting from these events could cause significant delays in shipments of our ability to deliver our solutions, services and products until we are able to shift our manufacturing, assembly or testing from the affected contractor(s) to another third-party vendor. We cannot assure you that alternative capacity could be obtained on favorable terms, if at all.

Defects in our products and solutions could harm our reputation and business.

Our productsservices and solutions are complex and have contained and may contain undetected defects or errors, especially when first introduced or when new versions are released.errors. Defects in our productsservices and solutions may lead to product returns and require us to implement design changes or updates.

 

Any defects or errors in our products, or the perception of such defects or errors, could result in:

expenditure of significant financial and product development resources in efforts to analyze, correct, eliminate or work around errors or defects;

loss of existing or potential customers;

delayed or lost revenue;

delay or failure to attain market acceptance;

negative publicity, which would harm our reputation;

warranty claims against us;

an increase in collection cycles for accounts receivable, which could result in an increase in our provision for doubtful accounts and the risk of costly litigation; and

harm to our results of operations.

expenditure of significant financial and product development resources in efforts to analyze, correct, eliminate or work around errors or defects;

loss of existing or potential customers;

delayed or lost revenue;

delay or failure to attain market acceptance;

delay in the development or release of new products or services;

negative publicity, which will harm our reputation;

 

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warranty claims against us;

an increase in collection cycles for accounts receivable, which could result in an increase in our provision for doubtful accounts and the risk of costly litigation; and

harm to our results of operations.

We and ourOur contract manufacturers purchase some components, subassemblies and products from a limited number of suppliers. The loss of any of these suppliers may substantially disrupt our ability to obtain orders and fulfill sales as we design and qualify new componentssales. .

We rely on third-party components and technology to build and operate our products and solutions and we rely on our contract manufacturers to obtain the components, subassemblies and products necessary for the manufacture of our products.services and solutions. Shortages in components that we use in our products and solutions are possible and our ability to predict the availability of such components is limited. If shortages occur in the future, as they have in the past, our business, operating results and financial condition would be materially adversely affected. Unpredictable price increases of such components due to market demand may occur. While components and supplies are generally available from a variety of sources, we and our contract manufacturers currently depend on a single or limited number of suppliers for several components for our products. If our suppliers of these components or technology were to enter into exclusive relationships with other providers or were to discontinue providing such components and technology to us and we were unable to replace them cost effectively, or at all, our ability to provide our products would be impaired. Therefore, we may be unable to meet customer demand for our products, which would have a material adverse effect on our business, operating results and financial condition.

 

We depend on key personnel and will need to recruit new personnel as our business grows.

As a small company, our future success depends in a large part upon the continued service of key members of our senior management team who are critical to the overall management of CUI GlobalOrbital Energy Group, Inc. and our subsidiary companies, as well as the development of our technologies, products, solutions and service offerings, our business culture and our strategic direction. The loss of any of our management or key personnel could seriously harm our business and we do not maintain any key-person life insurance policies on the lives of these critical individuals.

 

If we are successful in expanding our product and customer base, we will need to add additional key personnel as our business continues to grow. If we cannot attract and retain enough qualified and skilled staff, the growth of the business may be limited. Our ability to provide services to customers and expand our business depends, in part, on our ability to attract and retain staff with professional experiences that are relevant to technology development and other functions the Company performs. Competition for personnel with these skills is intense. We may not be able to recruit or retain the caliber of staff required to carry out essential functions at the pace necessary to sustain or expand our business.

 

We believe our future success will depend in part on the following:

the continued employment and performance of our senior management;

our ability to retain and motivate our officers and key employees; and

our ability to identify, attract, hire, train, retain and motivate other highly skilled technical, managerial, marketing, sales and customer service personnel.

the continued employment and performance of our senior management;

our ability to retain and motivate our officers and key employees; and

our ability to identify, attract, hire, train, retain and motivate other highly skilled technical, managerial, marketing, sales and customer service personnel.

 

Our insurance policies may not cover all operating risks and a casualty loss beyond the limits of our coverage could adversely impact our business.

Our business is subject to operating hazards and risks relating to handling, storing, transporting and use of the products, solutions and services we sell. We maintain insurance policies in amounts and with coverage and deductibles that we believe are reasonable and prudent. Nevertheless, our insurance coverage may not be adequate to protect us from all liabilities and expenses that may arise from claims for personal injury or death or property damage arising in the ordinary course of business, and our current levels of insurance may not be maintained or available in the future at economical prices. If a significant liability claim is brought against us that is not adequately covered by insurance, we may have to pay the claim with our own funds, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, consolidated financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.

 

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We may become subject to lawsuits, indemnity or other claims, in the ordinary course of our business, which could materially and adversely affect our business, results of operations and cash flows.

From time to time, we are subject to various claims, lawsuits and other legal proceedings brought or threatened against us in the ordinary course of our business. These actions and proceedings may seek, among other things, compensation for alleged personal injury, workers’ compensation, employment discrimination and other employment-related damages, breach of contract, property damage, environmental liabilities, liquidated damages, consequential damages, punitive damages and civil penalties or other losses, or injunctive or declaratory relief. We may also be subject to litigation in the normal course of business involving allegations of violations of the Fair Labor Standards Act and state wage and hour laws. In addition, we generally indemnify our customers for claims related to the services we provide and actions we take under our contracts, and, in some instances, we may be allocated risk through our contract terms for actions by our joint venture partners, equity investments, customers or other third parties.

Claimants may seek large damage awards and defending claims can involve significant costs. When appropriate, we establish accruals for litigation and contingencies that we believe to be adequate in light of current information, legal advice and our indemnity insurance coverages. We reassess our potential liability for litigation and contingencies as additional information becomes available and adjust our accruals as necessary. We could experience a reduction in our profitability and liquidity if we do not properly estimate the number of required accruals for litigation or contingencies, or if our insurance coverage proves to be inadequate or becomes unavailable, or if our self-insurance liabilities are higher than expected. The outcome of litigation is difficult to assess or quantify, as plaintiffs may seek recovery of very large or indeterminate amounts and the magnitude of the potential loss may remain unknown for substantial periods of time. Furthermore, because litigation is inherently uncertain, the ultimate resolution of any such claim, lawsuit or proceeding through settlement, mediation, or court judgment could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations. In addition, claims, lawsuits and proceedings may harm our reputation or divert management’s attention from our business or divert resources away from operating our business and cause us to incur significant expenses, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations or financial condition.

Expanding and evolving data privacy laws and regulations could impact our business and expose us to increased liability.

The General Data Protection Regulation ("GDPR") became effective in the European Union in May 2018, imposes significant new requirements on how we collect, process and transfer personal data, as well as significant financial penalties for non-compliance. Global privacy legislation, enforcement, and policy activity in this area are rapidly expanding and creating a complex regulatory compliance environment. The California Consumer Privacy Act (“CCPA”) becomesbecame effective in 2020. CCPA createscreated new consumer rights relating to the access to, deletion of, and sharing of personal information that is collected by businesses. Costs to comply with and implement these privacy-related and data protection measures could be significant. In addition, even our inadvertent failure to comply with federal, state, or international privacy-related or data protection laws and regulations could result in proceedings against us by governmental entities or others. Any inability to adequately address privacy concerns, even if unfounded, or to comply with the more complex privacy or data protection laws, regulations and privacy standards, could lead to significant financial penalties, which may result in a material and adverse effect on our results of operations.

 

We are subject to taxation in multiple jurisdictions. As a result, any adverse development in the tax laws of any of these jurisdictions or any disagreement with our tax positions could have a material adverse effect on our business, consolidated financial condition or results of operations. In addition, our annual effective income tax rate can change materially as a result of changes in our mix of U.S. and foreign earnings and other factors, including changes in tax laws and changes made by regulatory authorities.

We are subject to taxation in, and to the tax laws and regulations of, multiple jurisdictions as a result of the global scope of our operations and our corporate and financing structure. We are also subject to transfer pricing laws with respect to our intercompany transactions. Adverse developments in these laws or regulations, or any change in position regarding the application, administration or interpretation thereof, in any applicable jurisdiction, could have a material adverse effect on our business, consolidated financial condition or results of our operations. In addition, the tax authorities in any applicable jurisdiction, including the United States, may disagree with the positions we have taken or intend to take regarding the tax treatment or characterization of any of our transactions. If any applicable tax authorities, including U.S. tax authorities, were to successfully challenge the tax treatment or characterization of any of our transactions, it could have a material adverse effect on our business, consolidated financial condition or consolidated results of our operations.

 

Our overall effective income tax rate is equal to our total tax expense as a percentage of total earnings before tax. However, income tax expense and benefits are not recognized on a global basis but rather on a jurisdictional or legal entity basis. Losses in one jurisdiction may not be used to offset profits in other jurisdictions and may cause an increase in our tax rate. Changes in statutory tax rates and laws, as well as ongoing audits by domestic and international authorities, could affect the amount of income taxes and other taxes paid by us. Also, changes in the mix of earnings (or losses) between jurisdictions and assumptions used in the calculation of income taxes, among other factors, could have a significant effect on our overall effective income tax rate.

 

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Our operating results may be affected by fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, which may affect our operating results in U.S. dollar terms.

A portion of our revenue arises from our international operations and we anticipate that, as we grow, our revenues from international operations will increase.operations. Revenues generated and expenses incurred by our international operations are often denominated in foreign currencies. As a result, our consolidated U.S. dollar financial statements are subject to fluctuations due to changes in exchange rates as revenues and expenses of our international operations are translated from local currencies into U.S. dollars. In addition, our financial results are subject to changes in exchange rates that impact the settlement of transactions. The Company does not currently undertake any hedges to protect against adverse foreign currency exposure.

 

The United Kingdom’s withdrawal fromA failure of our internal control over financial reporting could materially affect our business.

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. An internal control system, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the European Union, commonly referred to as Brexit, could have an adverse effect on our business and financial results.

On January 31, 2020, the United Kingdom (“UK”) formally withdrew from the European Union (“EU”), entering a transitional period which is currently expected to end on December 31, 2020. During this transitional period, EU law will continue to apply in the UK while providing time for the UK and EU to negotiate the details of their future relationship. The impactobjectives of the withdrawal may adversely affect business activity, political stability and economic conditions incontrol system are met. Further, the U.K.,design of a control system must reflect the European Union and elsewhere. The economic conditions and outlook could be further adversely affected by the uncertainty concerning new or modified trading arrangements between the U.K. and other countries. Any of these developments could negatively affect economic growth or business activity in the U.K., the European Union and elsewhere, and could materially and adversely affect our business and results of operations. We continue to closely monitor the negotiationsfact that there are resource constraints, and the impactbenefits of controls must be considered relative to foreign currency markets, however we cannot predict the directiontheir costs. Internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements due to inherent limitations in internal control systems. Any failure to maintain an effective system of Brexit-related developments or the impact of those developments on our UK operations and the economies of the markets in which we operate.

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Our gas quality inferential measurement device, GasPT®, has not gained market acceptance as rapidly as we anticipated.

Our futureinternal control over financial performance and ability to commercialize the GasPT device and compete successfully will depend onreporting could limit our ability to effectively manage acceptancereport our financial results accurately and introductiontimely or to prevent and detect fraud, and could expose us to litigation, harm our reputation, and/or adversely affect the market price of our GasPT device in the natural gas quality inferential measurement device market. Although we have entered into agreements and letters of understanding with third parties, which could result in substantial sales of the GasPT device over the next several years, there is no assurance we will sell at or near the number of units forecasted under these contracts.common stock.

 

Several factors have and may continue to contribute to the slower than anticipated market acceptance of the GasPT device, such as: disruptive technologies, such as the GasPT device, are slow to be accepted in a mature industry, such as natural gas distribution; extensive testing and research required by large natural gas distribution customers takes an extended period of time before such potential customers place firm orders; macro-economic issues in the natural gas industry may slow or impede capital expenditures; and registration, regulatory approvals, certifications and licensing requirements in foreign countries.

Our strategy has been to establish market acceptance and credibility with potential customers through a campaign of product exposure and disclosure of highly acceptable test results of recognized international testing laboratories along with industry seminars, conventions, trade shows, professional periodicals and public relations. While we believe that the base has been laid for substantial sales of our GasPT device over the next several years, there is no assurance that our strategy and efforts will be successful.

Risks Related to Our Intellectual Property and Technology

If we fail to protect our intellectual property rights adequately, our ability to compete effectively or to defend ourselves from litigation could be impaired.

We rely primarily on patent, copyright, trademark and trade secret laws, as well as confidentiality and non-disclosure agreements and other methods, to protect our proprietary technologies and know-how. Given the costs of obtaining patent protection, we may choose not to protect certain innovations that later turn out to be important. Furthermore, there is always the possibility, despite our efforts, that the scope of the protection gained will be insufficient or that an issued patent may be deemed invalid or unenforceable. We license a significant amount of our underlying intellectual property from third parties, i.e., GasPT technology and VE Technology. The loss of our rights as a licensee under any of these or future technology licensing arrangements, or the exclusivity provisions of these agreements, could have a material adverse impact upon our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.

Monitoring unauthorized use of our intellectual property is difficult and costly. Unauthorized use of our intellectual property may occur in the future without our knowledge. The steps we have taken may not prevent unauthorized use of our intellectual property. Further, we may not be able to detect unauthorized use of, or take appropriate steps to enforce our intellectual property rights. Our competitors may also independently develop similar technology. Our failure to effectively protect our intellectual property could reduce the value of our technology in licensing arrangements or in cross-licensing negotiations and could impair our ability to compete. Any failure by us to meaningfully protect our intellectual property could result in competitors offering products that incorporate our most technologically advanced features, which could seriously reduce demand for our products.

In the future we may need to initiate infringement claims or litigation. Litigation, whether we are a plaintiff or a defendant, can be expensive and time-consuming and may divert the efforts of our technical staff and managerial personnel, which could result in lower revenues and higher expenses, whether or not such litigation results in a determination favorable to us.

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Confidentiality agreements with employees and others may not adequately prevent disclosure of our trade secrets and other proprietary information.

We have devoted substantial resources to the development of our proprietary technology and trade secrets. In order to protect our proprietary technology and trade secrets, we rely in part on confidentiality agreements with our key employees, licensees, independent contractors and other advisors. These agreements may not effectively prevent disclosure of our trade secrets and may not provide an adequate remedy in the event of unauthorized disclosure of our trade secrets. We may have difficulty enforcing our rights to our proprietary technology and trade secrets, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, operating results and financial condition. In addition, others may independently discover trade secrets and proprietary information and in such cases we could not assert any trade secret rights against such parties. Costly and time consumingtime-consuming litigation could be necessary to determine and enforce the scope of our proprietary rights and failure to obtain or maintain trade secret protection could adversely affect our competitive business position.

If a third party asserts that we are infringing on its intellectual property, whether successful or not, it could subject us to costly and time-consuming litigation and our business may be adversely affected.

Certain industries where we compete are characterized by the existence of a large number of patents, trademarks and copyrights and by frequent litigation based on allegations of infringement or other violations of intellectual property rights. Third parties may assert patent and other intellectual property infringement claims against us or the parties from whom we license our technological rights in the form of lawsuits, letters or other forms of communication. These claims, whether or not successful, could:

divert management’s attention;

result in costly and time-consuming litigation;

require us to enter into royalty or licensing agreements, which may not be available on acceptable terms, or at all; and

require us to redesign our products to avoid infringement.

As a result, any third-party intellectual property claims against us could increase our expenses and adversely affect our business. Even if we have not infringed any third parties’ intellectual property rights, we cannot be sure our legal defenses will be successful and even if we are successful in defending against such claims, our legal defense could require significant financial resources and management time. Finally, if a third party successfully asserts a claim that our products infringe its proprietary rights, royalty or licensing agreements might not be available on terms we find acceptable or at all and we may be required to pay significant monetary damages to such third party.

If our contract manufacturers and subcontractors do not respect our intellectual property and trade secrets, our business, operating results and financial condition could be materially adversely affected.

Although we attempt to enter into agreements with our manufacturers and subcontractors to preclude them from using our intellectual property and trade secrets, we may be unsuccessful in monitoring and enforcing our intellectual property rights. Although we take steps to stop counterfeits, we may not be successful and customers who purchase these counterfeit goods may have a bad experience and our brand may be harmed. If such an impermissible use of our intellectual property or trade secrets were to occur, our ability to sell our products at competitive prices and to be the sole provider of our products may be adversely affected and our business, operating results and financial condition could be materially and adversely affected.

 

Cyber risk and the failure to maintain the integrity of our operational or security systems or infrastructure, or those of third parties with which we do business, could have a material adverse effect on our business, consolidated financial condition and results of operations.

We are subject to an increasing number of various types of information technology vulnerabilities, threats and targeted computer crimes which pose a risk to the security of our systems and networks and the confidentiality, availability and integrity of our data. Disruptions or failures in the physical infrastructure or operating systems that support our businesses and customers, or cyber-attacks or security breaches of our networks or systems, could result in the loss of customers and business opportunities, legal liability, regulatory fines, penalties or intervention, reputational damage, reimbursement or other compensatory costs, and additional compliance costs, any of which could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. While we attempt to mitigate these risks, our systems, networks, products, solutions and services remain potentially vulnerable to advanced and persistent threats. Despite our efforts, our facilities and systems and those of our customers and third-party service providers may be vulnerable to security breaches, theft, misplaced or lost data, programming and/or human errors that could lead to the compromising of sensitive, confidential or personal data or information, improper use of our systems, software solutions or networks, unauthorized access, use, disclosure, modification or destruction of information, defective products, production downtimes and operational disruptions, which in turn could adversely affect our consolidated financial condition and results of operations.

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Risks Related to Regulation and Compliance

Our failure to comply with the regulations of federal, state and local agencies that oversee transportation and safety compliance could reduce our revenue, profitability and liquidity.

OSHA establishes certain employer responsibilities, including maintenance of a workplace free of recognized hazards likely to cause death or serious injury, compliance with standards promulgated by OSHA and various recordkeeping, disclosure and procedural requirements. Various standards, including standards for notices of hazards and safety in excavation and demolition work, may apply to our operations. We incur capital and operating expenditures and other costs in the ordinary course of business in complying with OSHA and other state and local laws and regulations, and could incur penalties and fines in the future from violations of health and safety regulations, including, in extreme cases, criminal sanctions. Our customers could cancel existing contracts and not award future business to us if we were in violation of these regulations.

From time to time, we may receive notice from the Department of Transportation (“DOT”) that our motor carrier operations will be monitored. The failure to monitor and maintain our safety performance could result in suspension or revocation of vehicle registration privileges. Our ability to service our customers could be damaged if we were not able to successfully resolve such issues, which could lead to a material adverse effect on our results of operations, cash flows and liquidity.

Our operations could affect the environment or cause exposure to hazardous substances. In addition, our properties could have environmental contamination, which could result in material liabilities.

Our operations are subject to various environmental laws and regulations, including those dealing with the handling and disposal of waste products, polychlorinated biphenyls, fuel storage, air quality and the protection of endangered species. Certain of our current and historical construction operations have used hazardous materials and, to the extent that such materials are not properly stored, contained or recycled, they could become hazardous waste. Additionally, some of our contracts require that we assume the environmental risk of site conditions and require that we indemnify our customers for any damages, including environmental damages, incurred in connection with our projects. We may be subject to claims under various environmental laws and regulations, federal and state statutes and/or common law doctrines for toxic torts and other damages, as well as for natural resource damages and the investigation and clean-up of soil, surface water, groundwater, and other media under laws such as the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act. Such claims may arise, for example, out of current or former conditions at project sites, current or former properties owned or leased by us, or contaminated sites that have always been owned or operated by third parties. For example, we own and lease facilities at which we store our equipment. Some of these facilities may contain fuel storage tanks. If these tanks were to leak, we could be responsible for the cost of remediation as well as potential fines. Liability may be imposed without regard to fault and may be strict and joint and several, such that we may be held responsible for more than our share of any contamination or other damages, or even for the entire share, and we may be unable to obtain reimbursement from the parties that caused the contamination. The obligations, liabilities, fines and costs or reputational harm associated with these and other events could be material and could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

We perform work in underground environments, which could affect the environment. A failure to comply with environmental laws could result in significant liabilities or harm our reputation, and new environmental laws or regulations could adversely affect our business.

Some of the work we perform is in underground environments. If the field location maps supplied to us are not accurate, or if objects are present in the soil that are not indicated on the field location maps, our underground work could strike objects in the soil containing pollutants and result in a rupture and discharge of pollutants. In such a case, we could incur significant costs, including clean-up costs, and we may be liable for significant fines and damages and could suffer reputational harm. Additionally, we sometimes perform directional drilling operations below certain environmentally sensitive terrains and water bodies. Due to the inconsistent nature of terrain and water bodies, it is possible that such directional drilling could cause a surface fracture releasing subsurface materials or drilling fluid. These releases alone or, in combination with releases that may contain contaminants in excess of amounts permitted by law, could potentially expose us to significant clean up and remediation costs, damages, fines and reputational harm, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, cash flows and liquidity.

New environmental laws and regulations, stricter enforcement of existing laws and regulations, the discovery of previously unknown contamination or leaks, or the imposition of new clean-up requirements could require us to incur significant costs or result in new or increased liabilities that could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, cash flows and liquidity. We may incur work stoppages to avoid violating these laws and regulations, or we may risk fines or other sanctions if we inadvertently violate these laws and regulations, which could adversely affect our business.

 

18

 

Compliance with and changes in tax laws could adversely affect our financial results.

We are subject to extensive tax liabilities imposed by multiple jurisdictions, including income taxes, indirect taxes (excise/duty, sales/use, gross receipts, and value-added taxes), payroll taxes, franchise taxes, withholding taxes, and ad valorem taxes. New tax laws, treaties and regulations and changes in existing tax laws, treaties and regulations are continuously being enacted or proposed, and significant changes could result from the change in control of the U.S. Congress and presidency in 2021, all of which can result in significant changes to the tax rate on our earnings and have a material impact on our earnings and cash flows from operations. Since future changes to federal and state tax legislation and regulations are unknown, we cannot predict the ultimate impact such changes may have on our business.

In addition, significant judgment is required in determining our worldwide provision for income taxes. In the ordinary course of our business, there are many transactions and calculations where the ultimate tax determination is uncertain. We may be audited by tax authorities, and our tax estimates and tax positions could be materially affected by many factors, including the final outcome of tax audits and related litigation, the introduction of new tax accounting standards, legislation, regulations and related interpretations, our global mix of earnings, our ability to realize deferred tax assets and changes in uncertain tax positions. A significant increase in our tax rate can have a material adverse effect on our profitability and liquidity.

Risks Related to Our Common Stock

OurThe trading price of our common stock price may continue to be volatile, which could result in substantial losses for individual shareholders.

The market price for the Company’sOur common stock istrades on the Nasdaq Stock Market. There can be no assurance, however, that the trading market for our common stock will be robust. A limited trading market for our common stock may cause fluctuations in the market value of our common stock to be exaggerated, leading to price volatility in excess of that which would occur in a more active trading market for our common stock. The trading price of our common stock has been volatile and could continue to be subject to wide fluctuations in response to various factors, including the following, some of which are beyond our control. During calendar year 2021, our common stock traded at a low of $2.08 and a high of $9.86.

We do not believe that this volatility corresponds to any recent change in our financial condition. However, such factors as: (1) our move into the renewable energy space (specifically solar); (2) the increased market interest in alternative energy stocks; (3) our recent press release outlining our commitment to bringing greater diversity and opportunities for underrepresented minority groups in the energy industry; and, (4) the changes in Washington DC with the new administration and its emphasis on renewable energy, as well as conditions in the financial markets generally, may have caused or contributed to this volatility.

The stock market in general, and the market for energy companies in particular, has experienced extreme price and volume fluctuations that have often been unrelated or disproportionate to the operating performance of those companies. Public perception and other factors outside of our control which meansmay additionally impact the stock price of companies like us that garner a disproportionate degree of public attention, regardless of actual operating performance.

As a result of this volatility, our securities could experience rapid and substantial decreases in price, and you may be able to sell securities you purchase under this prospectus only at a substantial loss to the initial offering price.

Some, but not all, of the factors that may cause the market price could be depressed and could impair our ability to raise capital:

actual or anticipated variations in our quarterly operating results;

announcements of technological innovations or new products, solutions or services by the Company or our competitors;

conditions or trends relating to our gas technologies;

changes in the economic performance and/or market valuations of gas metering, monitoring and sampling related companies;

changes in the economic performance and/or market valuations of other inferential natural gas monitoring device-related companies;

additions or departures of key personnel;

fluctuations of the stock market as a whole;

announcements about our earnings that are not in line with expectations;

announcements by our competitors of their earnings that are not in line with expectations;

the volume of shares of common stock available for public sale;

sales of stock by us or by our shareholders;

short sales, hedging and other derivative transactions on shares of our common stock;

our abilitystock to retain existing customers, attract new customers and satisfy our customers’ requirements;fluctuate include:

fluctuations in our quarterly or annual financial results or the quarterly or annual financial results of companies perceived to be similar to us or relevant for our business;

changes in estimates of our financial results or recommendations by securities analysts;

failure of our services, products, and technologies to achieve or maintain market acceptance;

changes in market valuations of similar or relevant companies;

success of competitive service offerings or technologies;

changes in our capital structure, such as the issuance of securities or the incurrence of debt;

announcements by us or by our competitors of significant services, contracts, acquisitions or strategic alliances;

regulatory developments in the United States, foreign countries, or both;

litigation;

additions or departures of key personnel;

investors’ general perceptions; and

changes in general economic, industry or market conditions.

19

general economic conditions;

changes in our pricing policies;

new product and service introductions;

technical difficulties or interruptions in our services;

the timing of additional investments in our products and solutions;

regulatory compliance costs;

costs associated with future acquisitions of technologies and businesses; and

extraordinary expenses such as litigation or other dispute-related settlement payments.

 

These factors may materially and adversely affect the market price of our common stock, regardless of our performance. In addition, the stock market in general and the market for energy infrastructure services companies in particular, have experienced extreme price and volume fluctuations that have often been unrelated or disproportionate to the operating performance of those companies. These broad market and industry factors may seriously harm the market price of our common stock, regardless of our actual operating performance. Additionally, because the trading volume of our stock is not large, there can be a disparity between the bid and the asked price that may not be indicative of the stock’s true value.

In addition, if the market for energy stocks, or the stock market in general, experiences a loss of investor confidence, the trading price of our common stock could decline for reasons unrelated to our business, financial condition, or results of operations. Further, in the past, following periods of volatility in the overall market and the market price of a particular company’s securities, securities class action litigation has often been instituted against these companies. If any of the foregoing occurs, it could cause our stock price to fall and may expose us to lawsuits that, even if unsuccessful, could be costly to defend and a distraction to management.

A possible “short squeeze” due to a sudden increase in demand of our common stock that largely exceeds supply may lead to additional price volatility.

In the future investors may purchase shares of our common stock to hedge existing exposure or to speculate on the price of our common stock. Speculation on the price of our common stock may involve long and short exposures. To the extent an aggregate short exposure in our common stock becomes significant, investors with short exposure may have to pay a premium to purchase shares for delivery to share lenders at times if and when the price of our common stock increases significantly, particularly over a short period of time. Those purchases may in turn, dramatically increase the price of our common stock. This is often referred to as a “short squeeze.” A short squeeze could lead to volatile price movements in our common stock that are not directly correlated to our business prospects, financial performance or other traditional measures of value for the Company or its common stock.

Additional stock offerings in the future may dilute then-existing shareholders’ percentage ownership of the Company.

Given our plans and expectations that we will need additional capital in the future, we anticipate that we may need to issue additional shares of common stock or securities convertible or exercisable for shares of common stock, including convertible preferred stock, convertible notes, stock options or warrants. The issuance of additional securities in the future will dilute the percentage ownership and potentially voting power of then current stockholders and could negatively impact the price of our common stock and other securities.

 

Offers or availability for sale of a substantial number of shares of our common stock may cause the price of our common stock to decline.

Sales of a significant number of shares of our common stock in the public market could harm the market price of our common stock and make it more difficult for us to raise funds through future offerings of common stock.

 

We have never paid dividends on our common stock and do not expect to pay any in the foreseeable future.

Potential purchasers should not expect to receive a return on their investment in the form of dividends on our common stock. The Company has never paid cash dividends on its common stock and the Company does not expect to pay dividends in the foreseeable future.

 

We currently anticipate that we will retain future earnings for the development, operation and expansion of our business and do not anticipate declaring or paying any cash dividends for the foreseeable future. Our payment of any future dividends will be at the discretion of our board of directors after taking into account various factors, including but not limited to our financial condition, operating results, cash needs, growth plans and the terms of any credit agreements that we may be a party to at the time. Our ability to pay dividends may be further restricted by the terms of any of our future debt or preferred securities. Accordingly, investors must rely on sales of their own common stock after price appreciation, which may never occur, as the only way to realize their investment. Investors seeking cash dividends should not purchase shares of our stock.

 

There is a limited public trading market for our common stock so you may not be able to resell your stock and may not be able to turn your investment into cash.

Our common stock is currently traded on the NASDAQ Stock Market under the trading symbol ‘‘CUI.OEG.’’ Our shares of common stock are thinly traded. Due to the illiquidity, the market price may not accurately reflect our relative value. There can be no assurance that there will be an active market for our shares of common stock either now or in the future. Because our common stock is thinly traded, a large block of shares traded can lead to a dramatic fluctuation in the share price and investors may not be able to liquidate their investment in us at all or at a price that reflects the value of the business.

 

Nasdaq may delist our common stock from its exchange which could limit your ability to make transactions in our securities and subject us to additional trading restrictions.

If for 30 consecutive trading days, the bid price of our common stock closes below the $1.00 per share minimum required for continued listing on the Nasdaq CapitalStock Market pursuant to Nasdaq Listing Rule 5550(a)(2) (the “Minimum Bid Price Requirement”), Nasdaq will send us a Notice. The Notice would not have an immediate effect on the listing of our common stock, and our common stock would continue to trade on the Nasdaq CapitalStock Market under the symbol “CUI.“OEG.” Under Nasdaq Listing Rule 5810(c)(3)(A), if during the 180 calendar day period following the date of the Notice (the “Compliance Period”), the closing bid price of our common stock would be at or above $1.00 for a minimum of 10 consecutive business days, we would regain compliance with the Minimum Bid Price Requirement and our common stock would continue to be eligible for listing on the Nasdaq CapitalStock Market, absent noncompliance with any other requirement for continued listing. If we did not regain compliance with the Minimum Bid Price Requirement by the end of the Compliance Period (or the Compliance Period as may be extended) the Company’s common stock would be subject to delisting. If this were to happen, we would monitor the closing bid price of our common stock and may, if appropriate, consider implementing available options to regain compliance with the Minimum Bid Price Requirement under the Nasdaq Listing Rules.

 

If our common stock is delisted, our common stock would likely then trade only in the over-the-counter market. If our common stock were to trade on the over-the-counter market, selling our common stock could be more difficult because smaller quantities of shares would likely be bought and sold, transactions could be delayed, and we could face significant material adverse consequences, including: a limited availability of market quotations for our securities; reduced liquidity with respect to our securities; a determination that our shares are a “penny stock,” which will require brokers trading in our securities to adhere to more stringent rules, possibly resulting in a reduced level of trading activity in the secondary trading market for our securities; a reduced amount of news and analyst coverage for our Company; and a decreased ability to issue additional securities or obtain additional financing in the future. These factors could result in lower prices and larger spreads in the bid and ask prices for our common stock and would substantially impair our ability to raise additional funds and could result in a loss of institutional investor interest and fewer development opportunities for us.

 

In addition to the foregoing, if our common stock is delisted from Nasdaq and it trades on the over-the-counter market, the application of the “penny stock” rules could adversely affect the market price of our common stock and increase the transaction costs to sell those shares. The SEC has adopted regulations which generally define a “penny stock” as an equity security that has a market price of less than $5.00 per share, subject to specific exemptions. If our common stock is delisted from Nasdaq and it trades on the over-the-counter market at a price of less than $5.00 per share, our common stock would be considered a penny stock. The SEC’s penny stock rules require a broker-dealer, before a transaction in a penny stock not otherwise exempt from the rules, to deliver a standardized risk disclosure document that provides information about penny stocks and the risks in the penny stock market. The broker-dealer must also provide the customer with current bid and offer quotations for the penny stock, the compensation of the broker-dealer and the salesperson in the transaction, and monthly account statements showing the market value of each penny stock held in the customer’s account. In addition, the penny stock rules generally require that before a transaction in a penny stock occurs, the broker-dealer must make a special written determination that the penny stock is a suitable investment for the purchaser and receive the purchaser’s agreement to the transaction. If applicable in the future, these rules may restrict the ability of brokers-dealers to sell our common stock and may affect the ability of investors to sell their shares, until our common stock no longer is considered a penny stock.

 

Risks Relating to ShareholderStockholder Rights

Our board of directors has the authority, without shareholderstockholder approval, to issue preferred stock with terms that may not be beneficial to existing common shareholdersstockholders and with the ability to adversely affect shareholderstockholder voting power and perpetuate their control.

Although we do not have any preferred stock outstanding presently, our Articles of Incorporation allow us to issue shares of preferred stock without any vote or further action by our shareholders.stockholders. Our board of directors has the authority to issue preferred stock without further shareholderstockholder approval, as well as the authority to fix and determine the relative rights and preferences of preferred stock. As a result, our board of directors could authorize the issuance of a series of preferred stock that would grant to holders the preferred right to our assets upon liquidation, the right to receive dividend payments before dividends are distributed to the holders of common stock or other preferred shareholdersstockholders and the right to the redemption of the shares, together with a premium, prior to the redemption of our common stock.

 

Preferred stock could be used to dilute a potential hostile acquirer. Accordingly, any future issuance of preferred stock or any rights to purchase preferred shares may have the effect of making it more difficult for a third party to acquire control of us. This may delay, defer or prevent a change of control or an unsolicited acquisition proposal. The issuance of preferred stock also could decrease the amount of earnings attributable to and assets available for distribution to, the holders of our common stock and could adversely affect the rights and powers, including voting rights, of the holders of our common stock and preferred stock.

 

Our Articles of Incorporation limits director liability, thereby making it difficult to bring any action against them for breach of fiduciary duty.

CUI Global,Orbital Energy Group, Inc. is a Colorado corporation. As permitted by Colorado law, the Company’s Articles of Incorporation limits the liability of directors to CUI Global,Orbital Energy Group, Inc. or its shareholdersstockholders for monetary damages for breach of a director’s fiduciary duty, with certain exceptions. These provisions may discourage shareholdersstockholders from bringing suit against a director for breach of fiduciary duty and may reduce the likelihood of derivative litigation brought by shareholdersstockholders on behalf of the Company against a director.

 

Our charter documents may inhibit a takeover that shareholdersstockholders consider favorable.

Provisions of our Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws may delay or discourage transactions involving an actual or potential change in control of the Company, including transactions in which shareholdersstockholders might otherwise receive a premium for their shares, or transactions that our shareholdersstockholders might otherwise deem to be in their best interests. These provisions:

provide that the authorized number of directors may be changed by resolution of the board of directors;

provide that all vacancies, including newly created directorships, may, except as otherwise required by law, be filled by the affirmative vote of a majority of directors then in office, even if less than a quorum; and

do not provide for cumulative voting rights.

 

Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments

None.

Item 2.  Properties

During December 2018, our wholly owned subsidiary, CUI Properties, LLC signed closing documents on the sale and leaseback of our Tualatin, Oregon corporate office real estate located at 20050 SW 112th Avenue in the Tualatin Franklin Business Park for a ten-year lease.

provide that the authorized number of directors may be changed by resolution of the board of directors;

provide that all vacancies, including newly created directorships, may, except as otherwise required by law, be filled by the affirmative vote of a majority of directors then in office, even if less than a quorum; and

do not provide for cumulative voting rights.

 

 

Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments

None.

Item 2.  Properties

In November 2017,2020, the Company'sCompany relocated its headquarters to its Houston operations, rentedoffice where it rents office and warehouse space in Houston, Texas, oftotaling approximately 40,000 square feet. Its lease expires in 2022.

In April 2021, the Company acquired Gibson Technical Services, LLC ("GTS"), which leases approximately 10,000 square feet of office and 5,000 square feet of warehouse space in Atlanta, GA. In addition, this space includes a fenced equipment yard  of approximately 30,000 square feet. The lease ends in July 2028. GTS also leases warehouse space ranging from 250 square feet to 8,700 square feet in Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, Nevada, Mississippi, Louisiana, New York, Virginia, and Oklahoma. 

In July 2021, the Company acquired IMMCO, Inc, which is a subsidiary of Gibson Technical Services, LLC and which shares office space with GTS in Atlanta, GA. 

In October 2021, the Company acquired Full Moon, Telecom, LLC, which runs remotely and thus has no properties associated with it.

In November 2021, the Company acquired Front Line Power Construction, LLC, which leases two industrial/office type buildings and surrounding six acres in the greater Houston area of Rosharon, Texas. The lease expires in 2024.

In April 2020, the Company sublet office space in Irving, Texas for corporate support services and Orbital Power, Inc. office personnel; the lease runs through 2023. Orbital Power, Inc. also maintains an equipment yard in Sherman, Texas that houses equipment primarily for Orbital Power, Inc. for which the lease runs until 2022.

 

In March 2015, as partWith the acquisition of the Tectrol (CUI-Canada) acquisition in the the discontinued Power and Electromechanical segment,Orbital Solar (formerly Reach Construction Group, LLC), the Company leased a 73,700 square foot manufacturing facility in Toronto, Canada that runs until November 2020.

In September 2015, Orbital, completed the construction of a new 46,000 square foot state-of-the-art manufacturing/administration/research and development facility on its existing site in the UK to supplement existing office space.

Additionally, CUI Japan, in the discontinued Power and Electromechanical segment, has leasedindustrial space in Tokyo, Japan,Sanford, North Carolina which is used as a salesincludes approximately 4,600 square feet of warehouse space and 4,800 square feet of office space and is leasedruns through March 2021.2022.

 

The Company has enough manufacturingleases office and office capacitywarehouse space in Tualatin, Oregon, which was its former headquarters and now sublets to meetoutside parties.

In the future, the Company may obtain additional leased properties to support its business needs forgrowth strategy and expansion of operations within the foreseeable future.energy infrastructure services industry.

 

Item 3.  Legal Proceedings

 

The Company and its subsidiaries are not parties in any legal proceedings. No director, officer or affiliate of the Company, any owner of record or beneficially of more than five percent of any class of voting securities of the Company or any associate of any such director, officer, affiliate of the Company or security holder is a party adverse to the Company or any of its subsidiaries or has a material interest adverse to the Company or any of its subsidiaries.

 

Item 4.  Mine Safety Disclosure

 

Not applicable.

 

 

PART II

 

Item 5.  Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

DescriptionDescription of Securities

The Company’s Common Stockcommon stock is traded on The NASDAQNasdaq Stock Market under the trading symbol ‘‘CUI.OEG.’’ The Company currently has authorized 325,000,000 common shares, par value $0.001 per share, and as of December 31, 2019,2021, the Company’s issued and outstanding shares consisted of 28,383,37382,259,739 shares of common stock issued and 81,906,676 shares outstanding of which 28,246,14765,787,438 shares are freely tradable without restriction or limitation under the Securities Act. As of December 31, 2019,2021, the Company had in excess of 3,000 beneficial holders of our common stock and in excess of 2,300 shareholdersstockholders of record. The actual number of shareholdersstockholders is greater than this number of record holders and includes shareholdersstockholders who are beneficial owners, but whose shares are held in street name by brokers and other nominees.

 

The holders of Common Stock are entitled to one vote per share and do not have cumulative voting rights. Holders of the Company’s Common Stock do not have any pre-emptive or other rights to subscribe for or purchase additional shares of capital stock and no conversion rights, redemption or sinking-fund provisions.

 

MarketMarket Value

The Company’s Common Stockcommon stock is traded on the NASDAQNasdaq Stock Market under the trading symbol ‘‘CUI.OEG.’’ The following table sets forth, the high and low sales prices of our Common Stock on the NASDAQNasdaq during each quarter of the two most recent years.

 

 

High

  

Low

  

High

  

Low

 

2019

        

2021

 

First Quarter

 $1.79  $1.18  $9.86 $2.08 

Second Quarter

  1.31   0.82  7.64 2.91 

Third Quarter

  0.91   0.53  4.66 2.92 

Fourth Quarter

  1.19   0.68  3.07 2.15 

2018

        

2020

 

First Quarter

 $3.25  $2.50  $1.79  $1.18 

Second Quarter

  3.16   2.56  1.31  0.82 

Third Quarter

  3.00   2.15  0.91  0.53 

Fourth Quarter

  2.25   1.17  1.19  0.68 

 

Stock Performance Graph

The following graph compares the performance of our common stock to the performance of the NASDAQ Composite Index and the Russell 2000 Index. The Russell 2000 Index measures the performance of the small-cap segment of the U.S. equity markets. The comparisons in the chart below are provided in response to SEC disclosure requirements and are not intended to forecast or be indicative of future performance of our common stock. We issued 7,392,856 shares in October 2017, which increased the total number of shares outstanding by about 35% and this had a dilutive effect on the share price as reflected in the following graph.

  

Period Ending

 

Index

 

12/31/2014 *

  

12/31/2015

  

12/31/2016

  

12/31/2017

  

12/31/2018

  

12/31/2019

 

CUI Global, Inc.

 $100.00  $94.50  $93.02  $36.91  $16.51  $14.77 

NASDAQ Composite

  100.00   106.96   116.45   150.96   146.67   200.49 

Russell 2000

  100.00   95.59   115.95   132.94   118.30   148.49 

* Assumed $100 invested on 12/31/2014 in stock or index, including reinvestment of dividends. Fiscal year ended December 31.

Source: S&P Global Market Intelligence

©2020

 

 

Dividend Policy

The Company has never paid cash dividends on its Common Stockcommon stock and the Company does not expect to pay dividends in the foreseeable future.

 

We currently expect to retain future earnings to finance the growth and development of our business. The timing, amount and form of future dividends, if any, will depend on, among other things, our future results of operations and cash flows; our general financial condition and future prospects; our capital requirements and surplus; contractual restrictions; the amount of distributions, if any, received by us from our subsidiaries; and other factors deemed relevant by our board of directors. Any future dividends on our common shares would be declared by and subject to the discretion of our board of directors.

 

Common Stock Reserved for Future Issuances

Set forth below is a summary of the outstanding securities, transactions and agreements, which relate to 849,635237,985 shares of common stock the Company is required to reserve for potential future issuances.

 

849,635237,985 common shares reserved for outstanding options issued under our Equity Compensation Plans.

As of December 31, 2019,2021, there were reserved for issuance an aggregate of 849,635237,985 shares of common stock for options outstanding under the Company’s 2008 Equity Incentive Plan and the Company’s 2009 Equity Incentive Plan and the Company’s 2009 Equity Incentive Plan (Executive).

At the 2020 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, the Company’s shareholders approved the Orbital Energy Group 2020 Incentive Award Plan and authorized a share limit of 2,000,000 shares. This limit was increased to a total of 5,000,000 shares at the 2021 Annual Meeting of Shareholders. This Plan replaced the 2008 and 2009 Equity Incentive Plan, which had expired. As of December 31, 2021 there are 4,130,665 remaining shares available to grant under the 2020 Incentive Award Plan. See Note 10 Stockholders' Equity for more information on the Company's 2020 Incentive Award Plan.

 

Other than as described herein, as of the date of this report, there are currently no plans, arrangements, commitments or understandings for the issuance of additional shares of Common Stock.

 

 

RECENT SALES OF UNREGISTERED SECURITIES

 

Following is a list of all securities we sold within the past threetwo years, which were not registered under the Securities Act. The Company relied on Section 4(2) of the Securities Act of 1933 as the basis for an exemption from registration for the following issuances.

 

 20192021 Sales of Unregistered Securities

Common Stock Issued During 20192021

 

(Dollars in thousands)

              

Dates of issuance

 

Type of
issuance

 

Expense/
Prepaid

 

Stock issuance

recipient

 

Reason for

issuance

 

Total no.
of shares

  

Grant date
fair value
recorded at
issuance

 

January, April, July and October 2019

 

Vested restricted common stock

 

Expense

 

Four board members

 

Director compensation

  164,713  $162 
                 

May 2019

 

Common stock

 

Expense

 

Employee

 

Approved bonus

  18,837   17 
                 

Total 2019 issuances

  183,550  $179 (1)

(1) Total excludes $36 thousand of 2019 stock compensation and $3 thousand of 2018 stock compensation related to royalties that were recorded as expense but not issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2019.

(Dollars in thousands)

              

Dates of issuance

 

Type of issuance

 

Stock issuance recipient

 

Reason for issuance

 

Total no. of shares

  

Fair value recorded at issuance

 
               

February, June, July, and August and October 2021

 

Common stock

 

Four consultants

 

Services

  251,537   1,161 
               

April and June 2021

 

Common stock

 

Various GTS sellers

 

GTS acquisition

  5,929,267   16,932 
               

July 2021

 

Common stock

 

Various IMMCO sellers

 

IMMCO acquisition

  874,317   2,024 
               

July, August, and September, October, November and December 2021

 

Common stock

 

Various

 

Debt payment

  3,082,299   8,971 
               

October 2021

 

Common stock

 

2 sellers

 

Full Moon Telecom acquisition

  227,974   368 
               

November 2021

 

Common stock

 

2 sellers

 

Front Line Power acquisition

  11,622,018   17,612 
               

November 2021

 

Common stock

 

4 lenders

 

Portion of original issue discount on $105 million credit facility

  1,636,651   3,813 
               

Total 2021 issuances

  23,624,063  $50,881 

 

 

2018 Sales of Unregistered Securities

Common Stock Issued During 2018

(Dollars in thousands)

              

Dates of issuance

 

Type of
issuance

 

Expense/
Prepaid

 

Stock issuance

recipient

 

Reason for

issuance

 

Total no.
of shares

  

Grant date
fair value
recorded at
issuance

 

January, April July, and October 2018

 

Vested restricted common stock

 

Expense

 

Four board members

 

Director compensation

  72,157  $175 
                 

January and July 2018

 

Common stock

 

Expense

 

Three Employees

 

Approved bonuses

  68,118   183 (1)
                 

July and December 2018

 

Common stock

 

Expense

 

Related Party, James McKenzie

 

Pursuant to royalty agreement

  5,755   14 (1)

Total 2018 issuances

  146,030  $372 (2) (3)

(1) Includes bonus and royalties of $170 thousand that was accrued and expensed in 2017.

(2) Total excludes $3 thousand of stock compensation related to royalties that were recorded as expense but not issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2018.

(3) Excludes $24 thousand of stock compensation for stock issued in 2017 that was amortized from prepaid expense in 2018.

2017 Sales of Unregistered Securities

Common Stock Issued During 2017

(Dollars in thousands)

              

Date of issuance

 

Type of
issuance

 

Expense/
Prepaid/
Cash

 

Stock issuance

recipient

 

Reason for

issuance

 

Total no.
of shares

  

Grant date
fair value
recorded at
issuance

 

January, April, August and October 2017

 

Vested restricted common stock

 

Expense

 

Four board members

 

Director compensation

  49,980  $200 
                 

January, February and June 2017

 

Common stock

 

Expense

 

Three Employees

 

Approved bonuses

  28,634   182 (1)
                 

January and December 2017

 

Common stock

 

Expense

 

Related party, James McKenzie

 

Pursuant to royalty agreement

  3,293   16 (1)

January and February 2017

 

Common stock

 

Expense

 

Two Employees

 

Cashless stock option exercises

  245    (2)

May 2017

 

Common stock

 

Prepaid expense/expense

 

Third-party consultant

 

Strategic investor marketing services

  15,000   57 (3)

Total 2017 issuances

  97,152  $455 (4)(5)

(1)

Includes bonuses and royalty of $176 thousand that were accrued and expensed in 2016.

(2)

The Company received $0 for the issuance in the cashless option exercises.

(3)

Amount includes $24 thousand that was included in prepaid expense at December 31, 2017.

(4)

Does not include stock expense of $170 thousand included in accrued liabilities at December 31, 2017 for unissued stock.

(5)

Does not include registered 7,392,856 shares issued in October 2017 via the S-3 registration statement. See Note 10. Shareholders' Equity for more information on the October share issuances.

 Shares Eligible for Future Sale

As of December 31, 2019,2021, we had outstanding 28,383,37381,906,676 shares of Common Stock.common stock. Of these shares, 28,246,14765,787,438 shares are freely tradable without restriction or limitation under the Securities Act.

 

The 137,22616,119,141 shares of Common Stockcommon stock held by existing shareholdersstockholders as of December 31, 20192021 that are ‘‘restricted’’ within the meaning of Rule 144 adopted under the Securities Act (the ‘‘Restricted Shares’’), may not be sold unless they are registered under the Securities Act or sold pursuant to an exemption from registration, such as the exemption provided by Rule 144 promulgated under the Securities Act. The Restricted Shares were issued and sold by us in private transactions in reliance upon exemptions from registration under the Securities Act.

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

On December 3, 2019, the Board of Directors of the Company authorized and approved a two-year share repurchase program for up to $5 million of the then outstanding shares of the Company's common stock. The following table provides information regarding repurchases of the Company's common stock during the quarter ended December 31, 2019:

Period

 

Total Number of

Shares Purchased

  

Average Price

Paid Per share

  

Total Number of

Shares as Part of

Publicly

Announced Plans

or Programs

  

Maximum Dollar

Value of Shares

that May Yet Be

Purchased Under

the Plans or

Programs

 

December 1, 2019 through December 31, 2019

  353,063  $1.17   353,063  $4,586,678 

Total

  353,063  $1.17   353,063  $4,586,678 

 

 

Item 6. Selected Financial DataReserved

 

The following tables contain selected consolidated financial data as of the dates and for the periods presented. The selected consolidated balance sheet data as of December 31, 2019 and 2018 and the selected consolidated statement of operations data for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017 have been derived from our consolidated financial statements and related notes that we have included elsewhere in this Form 10-K. The selected consolidated balance sheet data as of December 31, 2017, 2016, and 2015 and the selected consolidated statement of operations data for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 have been derived from consolidated financial statements that are not presented in this Form 10-K. The timing of acquisitions and divestitures completed during the years presented affects the comparability of the selected financial data.

The selected historical consolidated financial data as of any date and for any period are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be achieved as of any future date or for any future period. You should read the following selected historical financial data in conjunction with the more detailed information contained in Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and our consolidated financial statements and the related notes that we have presented elsewhere in this Form 10-K.

(In thousands, except share and per share amounts)

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

 
  

2019

  

2018 (d)

  

2017

  

2016

  

2015

 
                     

Selected Statements of Operations Data (a):

                    

Total revenues

 $23,492  $20,342  $18,843  $28,058  $28,203 

Cost of revenues

  17,680   17,783   12,913   16,141   17,661 

Gross profit

  5,812   2,559   5,930   11,917   10,542 

Selling, general and administrative expense

  20,063   18,629   17,506   17,483   16,845 

Depreciation and amortization

  1,544   1,549   1,366   1,422   1,964 

Research and development

  139   155   222   143   141 
                     

Provision for (credit to) bad debt

  131   13   (16

)

  44   125 
                     

Impairment of goodwill (b)

     4,347   3,152       

Other operating expenses

  (20

)

     5   (1

)

  34 

Loss from operations

  (16,045

)

  (22,134

)

  (16,305

)

  (7,174

)

  (8,567

)

Other income (expense)

  567   (316

)

  310   (385

)

  20 

Interest expense

  (61

)

  (216

)

  (201

)

  (202

)

  (178

)

Loss before income taxes and equity in net earnings of affiliate

  (15,539

)

  (22,666

)

  (16,196

)

  (7,761

)

  (8,725

)

Net (loss) income of affiliate

  (1,043

)

           53 

Income tax (benefit) (c)

  (2,956

)

  (1,342

)

  (2,251

)

  (49

)

  (1,270

)

                     

Loss from continuing operations, net of income taxes

  (13,626

)

  (21,324

)

  (13,945

)

  (7,712

)

  (7,402

)

Income from discontinued operations, net of income taxes

  12,497   3,999   1,356   446   1,415 

Net loss

 $(1,129

)

 $(17,325

)

 $(12,589

)

 $(7,266

)

 $(5,987

)

Loss from continuing operations per common share - basic and diluted

 $(0.48

)

 $(0.75

)

 $(0.62

)

 $(0.37

)

 $(0.36

)

Earnings from discontinued operations per common share - basic and diluted

  0.44   0.14   0.06   0.02   0.07 
                     

Loss per common share - basic and diluted

 $(0.04

)

 $(0.61

)

 $(0.56

)

 $(0.35

)

 $(0.29

)

Basic and diluted weighted average number of shares outstanding

  28,654,500   28,517,339   22,397,865   20,897,812   20,792,494 

(In thousands, except share data)

 

As of December 31,

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

2017

  

2016

  

2015

 

Selected Balance Sheet Data:

                    

Cash and cash equivalents

 $23,351  $3,979  $12,646  $4,617  $7,267 

Total current assets

  41,694   35,481   41,276   32,103   38,157 

Total assets

  64,158   70,167   87,909   79,843   90,848 

Total current liabilities

  15,995   18,586   18,914   17,738   17,055 

Total liabilities

  21,041   28,629   30,423   31,208   31,332 

Total stockholders' equity

  43,117   41,538   57,486   48,635   59,516 

Common shares outstanding

  28,383,373   28,552,886   28,406,856   20,916,848   20,806,219 

(a)

Statements of operations selected data for 2018, 2017, 2016 and 2015 has been reclassified to present continuing operations separately from operations classified as discontinued operations and consistent with the 2019 presentation.

(b)

During the year ended December 31, 2018, management determined that an impairment of $4.3 million was necessary related to goodwill at Orbital-UK. During the year ended December 31, 2017, management determined that an impairment of $3.2 million was necessary related to goodwill at Orbital-UK.

(c)

There was an $887 thousand tax benefit generated from the effect of the USA Tax Cut and Jobs Act ("Tax Act") passed in December 2017.

(d)

ASC 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, was applied on a modified retrospective basis as of January 1, 2018 thus years prior to 2018 are not restated.

Item 7.  Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

 

Important Note about Forward-Looking Statements

The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with our audited consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 20192021 and notes thereto included in this document and our unaudited 10-Q filings for the first three quarters of 20192021 and the notes thereto. In addition to historical information, the following discussion and other parts of this Form 10-K contain forward-looking information that involves risks and uncertainties. Our actual results could differ materially from those anticipated by such forward-looking information due to factors discussed elsewhere in this Form 10-K.

 

The statements that are not historical constitute ‘‘forward-looking statements.’’ Said forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements, expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are identified by the use of such terms and phrases as ‘‘expects,’’ ‘‘intends,’’ ‘‘goals,’’ ‘‘estimates,’’ ‘‘projects,’’ ‘‘plans,’’ ‘‘anticipates,’’ ‘‘should,’’ ‘‘future,’’ ‘‘believes,’’ and ‘‘scheduled.’’

 

The variables, which may cause differences include, but are not limited to, the following: general economic and business conditions; competition; success of operating initiatives; operating costs; advertising and promotional efforts; the existence or absence of adverse publicity; changes in business strategy or development plans; the ability to retain management; availability, terms and deployment of capital; business abilities and judgment of personnel; availability of qualified personnel; labor and employment benefit costs; availability and costs of raw materials and supplies; and changes in, or failure to comply with various government regulations. Although the Company believes that the assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements contained herein are reasonable, any of the assumptions could be inaccurate; therefore, there can be no assurance that the forward-looking statements included in this Form 10-K will prove to be accurate.

 

In light of the significant uncertainties inherent in the forward-looking statements included herein, the inclusion of such information should not be regarded as a representation by the Company or any person that the objectives and expectations of the Company will be achieved.

 

Overview

CUI Global,Orbital Energy Group, Inc. is a Colorado corporation organized on April 21, 1998. The Company’s principal place of business is located at 20050 SW 112th Avenue, Tualatin, Oregon 97062, phone (832) 467-1420. CUI Global1924 Aldine Western, Houston, Texas 77038. Orbital Energy Group is a platformholding company dedicated to maximizing shareholderstockholder value through the acquisition and development and commercialization of new, innovative technologies.infrastructure services contractors. Through its subsidiaries, CUI GlobalOrbital Energy Group has built a diversified portfolio of industry leading technologiesinfrastructure service providers that touch many markets.

 

CriticalCritical Accounting PoliciesEstimates

Our financial statements and related public financial information are based on the application of accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (‘‘GAAP’’). GAAP requires the use of estimates, assumptions, judgments and subjective interpretations of accounting principles that have an impact on the assets, liabilities, revenue, and expense amounts reported. These estimates can also affect supplemental information contained in our external disclosures including information regarding contingencies, risk and financial condition. We believe our use of estimates and underlying accounting assumptions adhere to GAAP and are consistently applied. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results may differ materially from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions. We continue to monitor significant estimates made during the preparation of our financial statements.

 

 

While all of our significant accounting policies impact the Company’s financial condition and results of operations, we view certain of these policies as critical. Policies determined to be critical are those policies that have the most significant impact on our financial statements and require management to use a greater degree of judgment and estimates. Actual results may differ from those estimates. Our management believes that given current facts and circumstances, it is unlikely that applying any other reasonable judgments or estimate methodologies would have caused a material change in our results of operations, financial position or liquidity for the periods presented in this report.

 

Finite-Lived Asset Impairment

The Company reviews its long-lived assets including finite-lived intangibles for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value and may not be recoverable. In performing the review for recoverability, the Company estimates the future cash flows expected to result from the use of the asset and its eventual disposition. If the sum of the expected future cash flows (undiscounted and without interest charges) is less than the carrying amount of the asset, an impairment loss is recognized as the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value. Otherwise, an impairment loss is not recognized. Management estimates the fair value and the estimated future cash flows expected. Any changes in these estimates could impact whether there was impairment and the amount of the impairment.

 

In the fourth quarterFair Value of 2019, the Company determined that certain acquisition intangibles related to CUI-Canada, which were classified as held for saleEstimates in 2019 did not have adequate forecasted revenue to justify the current valuation and were written off. This was primarily driven by the Company's decision to close the facility by the end of 2020. The impairment of $92 thousand is reported in discontinued operations.

In the fourth quarter of 2018, the Company determined that certain long-term prepaid assets classified on the balance sheet as deposits and other assets, which were reliant on future revenue in order to be amortized to expense, did not have adequate forecasted revenue to justify the current valuation. This was primarily driven by the lack of substantial sales over the previous two years and uncertainty regarding the level of future sales. For that reason, the Company recorded a $1.5 million impairment to deposits and other assets included in cost of revenues and reclassified $0.1 million to prepaid assets. The amount reclassified to prepaid assets related to prepaid royalties associated with expected 2019 revenue.

Indefinite-Lived IntangiblesBusiness Combination Accounting and Goodwill and Indefinite Lived Assets

The Company accounts for business combinations under the acquisition method of accounting in accordance with ASC 805, ‘‘Business Combinations,’’ where the total purchase price is allocated to the tangible and identified intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair values. The purchase price is allocated using the information currently available, and may be adjusted, up to one year from acquisition date, after obtaining more information regarding, among other things, asset valuations, liabilities assumed and revisions to preliminary estimates. The purchase price in excess of the fair value of the tangible and identified intangible assets acquired less liabilities assumed is recognized as goodwill. At December 31, 2021, the Company has six operating segments comprised of eight reporting units with Gibson Technical Services, IMMCO, Inc, and Full Moon Telecom, LLC consolidating into one operating segment called Gibson Technical Services. Goodwill is recognized at the operating segment level. At December 31, 2021, operating segments with goodwill include Front Line Power Construction, LLC, Orbital Solar Services and Gibson Technical Services.

 

2019 Goodwill Impairments

In the fourth quarterUpon acquisition of 2019,Front Line Power Construction, LLC, the Company determinedrecorded $70.2 million of goodwill. Goodwill was valued as of November 17, 2021 by a third-party valuation expert and was recorded following the recognition of Front Line Power Construction’s tangible assets and liabilities and $108.2 million of finite- and indefinite-lived identifiable intangible assets. Factors that contribute to the Company’s goodwill at Front Line Power Construction include the strong leadership of Kurt Johnson, Front Line Power Construction’s Founder and CEO, along with the skills and expertise brought by his team. Front Line Power Construction’s team provides synergies with Orbital Power Inc. that will add momentum to the comprehensive range of solutions by OEG’s Electric Power Segment. 

Upon acquisition of Full Moon Telecom, LLC, the Company recorded $0.8 million of goodwill. Goodwill was valued as of October 22, 2021, by a third-party valuation expert and was recorded following the recognition of Full Moon Telecom’s tangible assets and liabilities and $0.4 million of finite- and indefinite-lived identifiable intangible assets. Factors that contribute to the Company’s goodwill in Full Moon Telecom, LLC, include the highly skilled and technically competent workforce at Full Moon. This workforce when combined with Gibson Technical Services and IMMCO provide synergies that increase the unique portfolio of services provided to their customers and further penetrate the telecommunications market.

Upon acquisition of IMMCO, Inc., the Company recorded $10.6 million of goodwill. Goodwill was valued as of July 28, 2021 by a third-party valuation expert and was recorded following the recognition of IMMCO Inc.’s tangible assets and liabilities and $6.4 million of finite- and -indefinite-lived identifiable intangible assets. Factors that contribute to the Company’s goodwill at IMMCO include the significant synergies added to the Company’s telecommunications segment by expanding the depth and breadth of the customer solutions provided.

Upon acquisition of Gibson Technical Services, the Company recorded $12.3 million of goodwill. Goodwill was valued as of April 13, 2021 by a third-party valuation expert and was recorded following the recognition of Gibson Technical Services’ tangible assets and liabilities and $22.8 million of finite- and indefinite-lived identifiable intangible assets. Factors that contribute to the Company’s goodwill in Gibson Technical Services (GTS) include GTS’s sterling reputation within the telecommunications industry which when combined with the Company’s resources, provides the Company the solid platform that will help OEG penetrate the telecommunications market and build upon to create synergies with future acquisitions.

Upon acquisition of Reach Construction Group, LLC, the Company recorded $7.0 million of goodwill. Goodwill was valued as of April 1, 2020 by a third-party valuation expert and was recorded following the recognition of Reach's tangible assets and liabilities and $13.7 million of finite-lived identifiable intangible assets. Factors that contributed to the Company's goodwill are Reach Construction's skilled workforce and reputation within its industry. The Company also expected to achieve future synergies between Reach Construction and Orbital Power, Inc. business. These synergies were expected to be achieved in the form of power line work necessary when bringing new solar power systems online. 

For Orbital Solar Systems, (formally known as Reach Construction), management completed a quantitative analysis to determine potential impairment at the May 31, 2021 annual impairment test date. Goodwill in the Telecommunications segment was qualitatively reviewed to determine whether it was more likely than not that the fair value of its goodwill at CUI-Canada and CUI Japanreporting unit was less than its carrying amount, including goodwill. To complete the carrying amounts. The Company hired a third-party valuation expert to perform a valuationqualitative review, management evaluated the fair value of the Goodwill and it wasconsidered all known events and circumstances that might trigger an impairment of goodwill. Management determined that the remaining goodwill held by CUI-Canadano additional testing was necessary, and CUI Japan should be written down to zero. With those write downs, the Company does not have any remaining goodwill.

2018 Goodwill Impairments

no impairment was necessary. During our review of Goodwill as of May 31, 2018, the Company determined that2021 there were indicators presentno triggering events to suggest that it was more likely than not that the fair value of the Orbital-UKeach reporting unit and each indefinite-lived intangible was less than its carrying amount.amount and thus no impairment was necessary.

Revenue Recognition

On January 1, 2018, we adopted the accounting standard ASC 606, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers” and all the related amendments (“new revenue standard"), which supersedes nearly all existing revenue recognition guidance under U.S. GAAP. This guidance includes the required steps to achieve the core principle that a company should recognize revenue when it transfers promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. For the majority of contracts, revenue is still measured over time using the input cost-to-cost method or the output method. The change that most affected the transition adjustment on revenue was the requirement to limit revenue recognition on certain contracts without an enforceable right to payment for performance completed to date. Without a specific enforceable right to payment throughout the life of the contract, revenue is recorded at completion of the contact. For the Telecommunications, Electric Power, and Renewables segments, the majority of contracts are classified over time due to the guidance that allows for over time revenue recognition for construction contracts where the Company's performance creates or enhances an asset that the customer controls as the asset is being created or enhanced. This criterion is met since the Company is typically constructing the solar farms, as well as telecommunications and electric power construction services on customer owned or customer-controlled property, so the customer controls the asset as it is created.

For our construction contracts, revenue is generally recognized over time. Our fixed price construction projects use either an output method or a cost-to-cost input method to measure our progress towards complete satisfaction of the performance obligation as we believe it best depicts the transfer of control to the customer. Under the cost-to-cost measure of progress, the extent of progress towards completion is measured based on the ratio of costs incurred to date to the total estimated costs at completion of the performance obligation. For jobs under the output method, revenue is earned based on each unit in the contract completed. We construct comprehensive revenue calculations based on quantifiable measures of actual units completed multiplied by the agreed upon contract prices per item completed to measure revenue based on the output method.

 

The significanttiming of revenue recognition depends on the payment terms of the contract, as our performance does not create an asset with an alternative use to us. For those contracts which we have a right to payment for performance completed to date at all times throughout our performance, inclusive of a cancellation, we recognize revenue over time. As discussed above, these performance obligations use a cost-to-cost input method or an output method to measure our progress towards complete satisfaction of the performance obligation as we believe it best depicts the transfer of control to the customer. However, for those contracts for which we do not have a right, at all times, to payment for performance completed to date, we recognize revenue at the point in time when control is transferred to the customer.

For our services contracts, revenue is generally recognized over time as the customer simultaneously receives and consumes the benefits of our performance as we perform the service. For our fixed price service contracts with specified service periods, revenue is generally recognized on a straight-line basis over such service period when our inputs are expended evenly, and the customer receives and consumes the benefits of our performance throughout the contract term.

For certain of our revenue streams, such as call-out repair and service work, outage services and training that are performed under time and materials contracts, our progress towards complete satisfaction of such performance obligations is measured using an output method as the customer receives and consumes the benefits of our performance completed to date.

Due to uncertainties inherent in the estimation process, it is possible that estimates of costs to complete a performance obligation will be revised in the near-term. For those performance obligations for which revenue is recognized using a cost-to-cost input method, changes in total estimated costs, and related progress towards complete satisfaction of the performance obligation, are recognized on a cumulative catch-up basis in the period in which the revisions to the estimates are made. When the current estimate of total costs for a performance obligation indicate a loss, a provision for the Orbital-UK reporting unit subsequent toentire estimated loss on the most recent impairment test performed as of December 31, 2017 included a declineunsatisfied performance obligation is made in the 2018 actualperiod in which the loss becomes evident.

Our contracts with certain customers may be subject to contract cancellation clauses. Contracts with other cancellation provisions may require judgment in determining the contract term, including the existence of material rights, transaction price and identifying the performance obligations and whether a contract should be accounted for over time or on a completed contract basis. Revenue is recognized for certain integration systems over time using cost-based input methods, in which significant judgement is required to evaluate assumptions including the amount of total estimated costs to determine our progress towards contract completion and to calculate the corresponding amount of revenue operating incometo recognize.

At times, customers may request changes that either amend, replace or cancel existing contracts. Judgment is required to determine whether the specific facts and cash flows comparedcircumstances within the contracts require the changes to prior forecastsbe accounted for as a separate contract or as a modification. Generally, contract modifications containing additional goods and services that are determined to be distinct and sold at their stand-alone selling price are accounted for as a separate contract. For contract modifications where goods and services are not determined to be distinct and sold at their stand-alone selling price, the same periodoriginal contract is updated and a negative change in the 2018 forecastedrequired adjustments to revenue operating income and cash flows for the remainder of the year due in part to the longer than expected halt in shipping of its GasPT product to a major customer in Italycontract assets, liabilities, and market uncertainty due to the continuing effects of Brexit.other accounts will be made accordingly.

 

 

Variable Consideration

The nature of our contracts gives rise to several types of variable consideration. In rare instances, we include in our contract estimates, additional revenue for submitted contract modifications or claims against the customer when we believe we have an enforceable right to the modification or claim, the amount can be estimated reliably and its realization is probable. In evaluating these criteria, we consider the contractual/legal basis for the claim, the cause of any additional costs incurred, the reasonableness of those costs and the objective evidence available to support the claim.  These amounts are included in our calculation of net revenue recorded for our contracts and the associated remaining performance obligations. Additionally, if the contract has a provision for liquidated damages in the case that the Company misses a timing target, or fails to meet any other contract benchmarks, the Company accounts for those estimated liquidated damages as variable consideration and will adjust revenue accordingly with periodic updates to the estimated variable consideration as the job progresses. Liquidated damages are recognized as variable consideration only when the Company estimates that they will be a factor in the performance of the contract.

In contracts where there are timing differences between when we transfer a promised good or service to the customer and when the customer pays for that good or service, we have determined that, our contracts do not include a significant financing component.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Company Conditions and Sources of Liquidity

The Company performed a quantitative testhas experienced net losses and cash outflows from cash used in operating activities over the past years. As of and for the Orbital-UK reporting unit, which resulted in a goodwill impairment charge of $1.3 million during the second quarter of 2018.

twelve months ended December 2018 Interim Test. During the fourth quarter of 2018,31, 2021, the Company determined that there were additional indicators present to suggest that it was more likely than not that the fair valuehad an accumulated deficit of the Orbital-UK reporting unit was less than its carrying amount. The significant changes for the Orbital-UK reporting unit subsequent to the annual goodwill impairment test performed as$210.9 million, loss from continuing operations of May 31, 2018 were driven by a slower recovery than what was originally forecasted. Actual GasPT revenue continued to lag behind forecasted revenue as acceptance$49.8 million, and net cash used in operating activities of the technology continued to be slower than anticipated and continued delays associated with existing customer contracts that had not yet resumed even though previously communicated issues had been resolved. This slower than expected recovery, led to lower 2018 revenue, operating income and cash flows than originally forecasted.$45.7 million.


 

As a result of its analysis,December 31, 2021, the Company performed another quantitative testhad Cash and cash equivalents of goodwill. The quantitative test$26.9 million available for working capital needs and planned capital asset expenditures and a working capital deficit of approximately $33.3 million, including current maturities of debt. These factors initially raise substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern, but this doubt has been alleviated by the Orbital-UK reporting unit resultedCompany’s plans to raise sufficient capital to meet our current obligations over the next twelve months, in a further goodwill impairment chargeaddition to the expected recovery of $3.1 million during the fourth quarter of 2018, which was a write-off of the remaining Energy segment goodwill. In addition, the reporting unitsour assets to satisfy liabilities in the discontinued Power and Electromechanical segment were tested for impairment due to the overall decrease in market capitalization experienced in 2018, with no impairment identified.

December 2017 Interim Test. During the fourth quarternormal course of 2017, the Company determined that there were indicators present to suggest that it was more likely than not that the fair value of the Orbital-UK reporting unit was less than its carrying amount. The significant changes for the Orbital-UK reporting unit subsequent to the annual goodwill impairment test performed as of May 31, 2017 included a decline in the 2017 actual revenue, operating income and cash flows compared to previously forecasted results and a decline in the 2018 forecasted revenue, operating income and cash flows due in part to the longer than expected halt in shipping of its GasPT product to a major customer in Italy and market uncertainty due to the continuing effects of Brexit.business.

 

The Company performed a quantitative analysis and concluded that the carrying value of the Orbital-UK reporting unit exceededhas plans to access additional capital to meet its estimated fair value. The quantitative test resulted in an impairmentobligations for the Orbital-UK reporting unit,twelve months from the date these financial statements are available to be issued. Historically, the Company has raised additional equity and debt financing to fund the expansion; refer to Note – 10 Stockholders Equity and Stock-Based Compensation and Note 7 — Notes Payable. The Company has also funded some of its capital expenditures through long-term financing with lenders and other investors as also described in further detail in Note 7 Notes Payable. Our ability to raise the additional capital is dependent on a number of factors, including, but not limited to, the market demand for our common stock, which itself is subject to a number of business risks and uncertainties, our creditworthiness and the uncertainty that we would be able to raise such additional capital at a price that is favorable to us. The Company recordedcurrently has an effective S-3 shelf registration statement with $112 million of aggregate offering value available for the issuance of various types of securities, including common stock, preferred stock, debt securities and/or warrants. While management will look to continue funding future acquisitions, organic growth initiatives and continuing operations by raising additional capital from sources such as sales of its debt or equity securities or notes payable in order to meet operating cash requirements, there is no assurance that management’s plans will be successful.

As the Company continues its progression to build a goodwill impairment chargefull-service infrastructure services platform, a successful transition to attaining profitable operations is dependent upon achieving a level of $3.2positive cash flows through generating adequate revenue growth to support the Company’s cost structure. For the twelve months ended December 31, 2021, our revenues have increased by $61.5 million resulting in a 286% increase in revenue from the prior year. The significant increase in revenues during the fourth quarteryear was primarily driven by the strategic acquisitions of 2017.

Long-lived assetsFront Line Power Construction, LLC, Gibson Technical Services, IMMCO, Inc., and finite lived intangible assets

Besides goodwill being tested for impairment,Full Moon Telecom, LLC made coupled with organic growth within Orbital Power Services. In addition, two large utility scale solar projects were awarded to Orbital Solar Systems during the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2021. We anticipate, based on currently proposed plans and assumptions relating to our operations, the Company also tested its long-lived assetsto generate sufficient revenue growth required to achieve profitability and finite lived intangible assets for Orbital-UK. The result of the quantitative test of undiscountedgenerate positive cash flows did not result in any impairment.from operations over the next twelve months. No assurance can be made that we will be able to obtain profitability and positive cash flows from our continuing operations.

 

Stock-Based Compensation

The Company accounts for stock-based compensation using FASB Accounting Standards Codification No. 718 (‘‘FASB ASC 718’’), ‘‘Compensation – Stock Compensation.’’ FASB Codification No. 718 requires the fair value of all stock-based employee compensation awardedplans to employees to be recordedmeet its obligations as an expensethey become due over the related vesting period.

Stock bonuses issuednext twelve months by raising additional capital through equity and debt financing sources and expected positive cash flows generated from operations. Given the considerations, we believe the mitigating effect of management’s plans has alleviated any substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to employees are recorded at fair value using the market price of the stock on the date of grant and expensed over the vesting period or immediately if fully vested on date of issuance. Employee stock options are recorded at fair value using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The underlying assumptions used in the Black-Scholes option pricing model by the Company are taken from publicly available sources including: (1) volatility and grant date stock price, which are sourced from historic stock price information; (2) the appropriate discount rates are sourced from the United States Federal Reserve; and (3) other inputs are determined based on previous experience and related estimates. With regards to expected volatility for determining the fair value of our stock options, the Company utilizes an appropriate period for historical share prices for CUI Global, Inc. that best reflects the expected weighted average lifespan of the options.continue as a going concern.

 

 

ValuationCash used in Operations

There was a use of Non-Cash cash from operations of approximately $45.7 million during the year ended December 31, 2021 compared to a $15.0 million use of cash in 2020. This was an increase in the use of cash from operations of approximately $30.7 million from the year ended December 31, 2020. Overall, the change in cash used in operations is primarily the result of the loss from continuing operations, net of income taxes in 2021 and changes in assets and liabilities.

Increased uses of cash in 2021 are primarily for normal administrative costs, and cash usage in the Electric Power segment primarily related to start-up costs and Renewables primarily related to its loss from operations. While the Company saw an initial cost increase from the Electric Power segment, management expects this segment to become cash flow positive, as the business environment normalizes and it continues to increase service crews deployed. The Company believes that revenue generated by recent Telecommunications and Electric Power acquisitions will improve cash flow from operating activities. The Company believes overall cash used in operations will improve through revenue growth associated with new customers and larger projects. 

During 2021, in addition to the Company's net loss after non-cash items, significant factors affecting cash used in operating activities included the change in trade accounts receivable, accrued liabilities, and changes in contract liabilities. The change in trade accounts receivable accounted for a $19.2 million use of cash in operating activities and was due to increased trades account receivable balances from the Electric Power and Renewables segments. Accrued expenses and Accrued Compensation increased by $4.5 million primarily related to increased accrued compensation expense in 2021 related to the timing of payroll expense along with increased accrued expenses at the corporate level for interest payable on outstanding debt. Change in contract liabilities was a source of cash due to increased billings in excess of cash at the Renewables segment.

During 2020, in addition to the Company's net loss after non-cash items, significant factors affecting cash used in operating activities included the change in accrued liabilities, accounts payable and changes in contract liabilities. A use of cash of $1.2 million in accrued liabilities related largely to the payout of severance at CUI Canada that was accrued for in 2019. Change in accounts payable, which was a $3.5 million use of cash, was largely due to the paydown of accounts payable at the Renewables segment, which was acquired on April 1, 2020. Accounts payable paid down did not get replaced at the same rate due to decreased business activity at the Renewables segment due to the COVID-19 pandemic and timing of customer projects.  Change in contract liabilities was a source of cash due to increased billings in excess of cash at the Renewables segment partially offset by the decrease in provision for loss contracts at the Renewables segment as the estimated contract losses recorded on the acquisition date were realized as vendors were paid.

During 2021 and 2020, the Company used stock and options as a form of payment to certain vendors, consultants, directors and employees. For years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, the Company recorded a total of $12.2 million and $0.3 million, respectively for share-based compensation related to equity given, or to be given, to employees, directors and consultants for services provided and as payment for royalties earned. The increase in 2021 compared to 2020 was due to greater stock-based bonuses, and greater stock-based director compensation. In addition, there was a fair value adjustment to stock appreciation rights of $2.1 million in 2021 compared to a fair value adjustment of $0.6 million in 2020. Stock appreciate rights were exchanged for restricted stock units in the first quarter of 2022. There was no stock option vesting expense in 2021 or 2020.

Capital Stock IssuancesExpenditures and Investments

In 2021, the Company paid $132.5 million cash for acquisitions, net of cash received. 

During the years ended 2021 and 2020, Orbital Energy Group invested $7.8 million and $1.7 million, respectively, in fixed assets. These investments typically include additions to equipment including vehicles and equipment for powerline service and maintenance, telecommunications service and maintenance, engineering and research and development, tooling for manufacturing, furniture, computer equipment for office personnel, facilities improvements and other fixed assets as needed for operations. The increase in 2021 was due to the start-up costs associated with the Company's Electric Power segment along with increased equipment at the Telecommunications segment. The Company anticipates further investment in fixed assets during 2022 in support of its on-going business and continued development of product lines, technologies and services.

Orbital Energy Group invested $0.7 million and $11 thousand in other intangible assets during 2021 and 2020, respectively. These investments typically include product certifications, technology rights, capitalized website development, software for engineering and research and development and software upgrades for office personnel. The increase in cash paid for investments in the current year primarily relates to VE Technology purchased by Orbital Gas Systems North America, now classified as discontinued operations.

In 2021, the Company entered into finance lease agreements that required payment of deposits. Per the agreement, these deposits should be returned 36 months after the lease commences. During 2021 the Company paid $0.8 million on finance lease deposits compared to zero in 2020.

In 2021 the Company recognized proceeds from notes receivable of $0.6 million compared to zero in 2020. Cash used in purchase of short-term investments of $1.0 million in 2021 compared to zero in 2020.

The Company valuesmade an additional $0.3 million investment in a convertible note receivable from Virtual Power Systems ("VPS") in 2020 including payments made related to the Company's transition agreement with VPS. This note was converted to equity in VPS in the third quarter of 2020 along with an additional contribution of $0.5 million and a non-cash contribution of inventory in the amount of $0.3 million.

Financing Activities

During the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, the Company issued payments of $2.0 million and $4 thousand, against finance leases of equipment. The Company had proceeds from notes payable in 2021 of $143.0 million, compared to $8.1 million in 2020. See Note 7, Note payable for more information on the Company's notes payable. The Company made payments on notes payable of $9.9 million in 2021 and $4.1 million in 2020. 

On August 19, 2021, the Company's Telecommunications segment entered into a $4.0 million variable rate line of credit agreement. Interest accrues at a rate of 2.05% over the Daily Simple Secured Overnight Financing Rate ("SOFR") index rate. At December 31, 2021 the Company had an outstanding balance on the line of credit of $2.5 million and $1.5 million was available for borrowing. In 2020, the $0.4 million line of credit balance was held at the Renewables segment. The Renewable segment line of credit was paid and closed in the first quarter of 2021.

S-3 registration and share issuances

The Company filed an S-3 registration statement on July 17, 2020 containing a prospectus that was effective in September 2020. The Company utilized this filing in January 2021 to issue common stock for $45 million before costs. The Company filed a new S-3 shelf registration in January 2021, which, as amended, became effective in April 2021. With this filing, Orbital Energy Group may from time-to-time issue various types of securities, including common stock, preferred stock, debt securities and/or warrants, up to an aggregate amount of $150 million. The Company utilized this S-3 registration to issue additional common stock in July 2021 for $38 million before costs of approximately $2.3 million for net proceeds of approximately $35.7 million. 

As the Company focuses on growing its infrastructure services market presence both organically and through strategic acquisitions, technology development, product and service line additions, and increasing Orbital’s market presence, it will fund these activities together with related operating, sales and marketing efforts for its various product offerings with cash on hand, and possible proceeds from future issuances of equity through the S-3 registration statement, and available debt.

Orbital Energy Group may raise additional capital needed to fund the further development and marketing of its products and services as well as payment of its debt obligations.

See the section entitled Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities for a complete listing of all unregistered securities transactions.

Recap of Liquidity and Capital Resources

The Company had a net loss of $61.2 million and cash used in operating activities of $45.7 million during 2021. As of December 31, 2021, the Company's accumulated deficit is $210.9 million. The Company has supplemented its liquidity by issuing $45 million of shares of stock in January 2021 and $38 million shares of stock in July 2021. In November 2021, the Company entered into a Credit Agreement with Alter Domus (US), LLC, as administrative agent and collateral agent and various lenders (the “Lenders”) in order to enable the Company to finance the acquisition of Front Line Power Construction, LLC (“Front Line”) (the “Acquisition”). Pursuant to the Credit Agreement, the Lenders made a Term Loan to Front Line in the initial principal amount of $105 million for the purposes of financing the Acquisition and the associated expenses. The Term Loan initially bears interest at the three-month Adjusted LIBOR Rate, plus the Applicable Margin, of which 2.5% may be paid in-kind. The Term Loan shall be repaid in consecutive quarterly installments of $262,500, commencing on June 30, 2022. The Credit Agreement provides for mandatory prepayments on the occurrence of events such as sales of assets, Consolidated Excess Cash Flow and Excess Receipts during the term. The Credit Agreement provides for prepayment premiums (initially 5% on prepayments made in the first 30 months of the term, declining to 1% in the final year of the term). The Term Loan matures on November 17, 2026, subject to acceleration on Events of Default. Additionally, the Company issued two, unsecured promissory notes to the sellers of Front Line in the aggregate principle amount outstanding of $86.7 million with a maturity date of May 17, 2022 and an interest rate of 6% per annum. The seller notes were amended in the first quarter of 2022 so that $35 million will be due in 2022 and the remaining portion of the seller notes will be due May 31, 2023.

At December 31, 2021, and 2020 the Company had cash and cash equivalents balances of $26.9 million and $3.0 million. At December 31, 2021 and 2020, the Company had $2.3 million and $0.6 million, respectively, of cash and cash equivalents balances at domestic financial institutions, which were covered under the FDIC insured deposits programs and $0.4 million and $0.2 million, respectively, of cash and cash equivalents covered at foreign financial institutions. At December 31, 2021 and 2020, the Company held $2.1 million and $2.2 million, respectively, in foreign bank accounts.

The following tables present our contractual obligations as of December 31, 2021:

  

Payments due by period

 
  

Less than

                 

(In thousands)

 

1 year

  

1 to 3 years

  

3 to 5 years

  

After 5 years

  

Total

 

Financing lease obligations:

                    

Minimum lease payments

 $5,729  $9,980  $576  $  $16,285 
                     

Operating lease obligations:

                    

Operating lease - minimum payments

  5,767   8,789   4,093   2,714   21,363 
                     

Notes payable obligations:

                    

Notes payable maturities plus interest

  97,659   92,077   130,053      319,789 

Total Obligations

 $109,155  $110,846  $134,722  $2,714  $357,437 

The above notes payable maturities reflects the agreement made with the Front Line sellers to extend the maturity date for those agreements from May 16, 2022 to May 31, 2023, with $35 million being due in 2022 and the remaining principal due in 2023. 

As of December 31, 2021, the Company had an accumulated deficit of $210.9 million. 

The Company expects the revenues from its continuing operations to cover operating and other expenses for the next twelve months of operations. However, in the short-term, the Company expects its operating units to need cash support as the Company acquires fixed assets to grow their businesses. Further equity issuance or borrowing may be required to fund future acquisitions.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements - Obligations under Certain Guarantee Contracts

The Company may enter into guarantee arrangements in the normal course of business to facilitate commercial transactions with third parties. As of December 31, 2021, the Company is an indemnitor on four surety bonds and had three letters of credit off-balance sheet for a total dollar value of approximately $131.8 million. Two bonds were with the Renewables segment for a total of $127.0 million dollars for two construction projects. At the Electric Power segment there were two bonds totaling $3.8 million for various unit-based construction jobs. For the projects related to these bonds, bonds, there was $110.7 million in costs left to complete the projects at December 31, 2021. The Company held three off-balance sheet letters of credit as of December 31, 2021. The Telecommunications segment had a letter of credit for $0.4 million, Discontinued UK operations for $54 thousand and Renewables for $0.6 million. The Company does not expect any liability associated with these off-balance sheet arrangements.

Results of Operations

The following tables set forth, for the periods indicated, Revenue and income (loss) from operations by segment:

                     

(Dollars in thousands)

  For the Year Ended December 31, 2021                 
  

Telecommunications

  

Electric Power

  

Renewables

  

Other

  

Total

 

Total Revenues

 $27,799  $43,599  $11,550  $  $82,948 

Income (Loss) from operations

 $43  $(13,215) $(19,043) $(20,576) $(52,791)


 

                     

(Dollars in thousands)

  For the Year Ended December 31, 2020             
  

Telecommunications

  

Electric Power

  

Renewables

  

Other

  

Total

 

Total Revenues

 $  $8,482  $13,005  $  $21,487 

Loss from operations

 $  $(4,942) $(5,479) $(11,610) $(22,031)

Revenue

  

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

Revenues by Segment

     

Percent

     

(Dollars in thousands)

 

2021

  

Change

  

2020

 

Telecommunications

 $27,799   100.0% $ 

Electric Power

  43,599   414.0%  8,482 

Renewables

  11,550   (11.2)%  13,005 

Total revenues

 $82,948   286.0% $21,487 

2021 compared to 2020

Revenues in 2021 are attributable to newly acquired entities, continued sales, and marketing efforts. Net revenues for the year ended December 31, 2021 were greater than in 2020 due to the acquisitions in the Telecommunications and Electric Power segments and the development of the Company's Electric Power business. This increase was partially offset by lower renewables revenue at Orbital Solar Services during 2021. Revenues will fluctuate generally around the timing of customer project delivery schedules. 

The Electric Power segment held backlogs of customer orders of approximately $207.7 million as of December 31, 2021 and $22.2 million at December 31, 2020. The Renewables segment held backlogs of customer orders of approximately $121.4 million as of December 31, compared to $8.1 million as of December 31, 2020. Telecommunications, had backlogs of customer orders of approximately $194.5 million compared to zero as of December 31, 2020.

Cost of Revenues

2021 compared to 2020

For the year ended December 31, 2021, the cost of revenues as a percentage of revenue increased to 94.8% from 91.1% during 2020. This increase was attributable to start-up costs at the Company’s Electric Power segment and lower margin projects during the period for Orbital Solar Services. Margins will vary based upon the mix of work provided, proprietary technology included in projects, contract labor necessary to complete projects, and the competitive markets in which the Company competes. The year ended December 31, 2021 was also affected negatively by the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting world-wide economic slowdown.

The Company expects continued improvement in 2022 with the addition of the newly acquired companies Gibson Technical Services, IMMCO, Inc., Full Moon Telecom, LLC, and Front Line Power Construction, LLC. These acquired entities have been profitable from acquisition. With the addition of these entities, the Company expects synergies that will promote efficiencies and increase revenue in the years to come. Additionally, two large solar projects are scheduled to ramp up in 2022 and increase revenue.

Selling, General and Administrative Expense

Selling, General and Administrative (SG&A) expenses includes such items as wages, commissions, consulting, general office expenses, business promotion expenses and costs of being a public company including legal and accounting fees, insurance and investor relations. SG&A expenses are generally associated with the ongoing activities to reach new customers, promote new product lines including Telecommunications, Electric Power, and Renewables segments and other new product and service introductions.

2021 compared to 2020

During the year ended December 31, 2021, SG&A increased $31.0 million compared to the year ended December 31, 2020. The increase in SG&A for 2021 compared to 2020 was due to the addition of entities in our Telecommunications and Electric Power segments. Additionally, the Electric Power segment experienced increased start-up SG&A costs around increased payroll and insurance expense. Also contributing to SG&A were increased corporate costs largely due to strategic initiatives, which included increased professional fees and costs associated with due diligence activities related to acquisitions. 

SG&A decreased to 60.3% of total revenue in 2021 compared to 88.6% of total revenue during the year ended December 31, 2020 due to economies of scale on 286.0% higher consolidated revenues.

Depreciation and Amortization

  

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

Depreciation and Amortization by Segment

     

Percent

     

(Dollars in thousands)

 

2021

  

Change

  

2020

 

Telecommunications

 $2,326   100.0% $ 

Electric Power

  5,969   1278.5%  433 

Renewables

  2,931   (10.6)%  3,278 

Other

  1,684   10.1%  1,530 

Total depreciation and amortization (1)

 $12,910   146.3% $5,241 

(1) For the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, depreciation and amortization totals included $1.6 million and $1.5 million, respectively that were classified in income from discontinued operations on the Consolidated Statements of Operations in the Other segment. For the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, depreciation and amortization totals included $4.5 million and $0.5 million, respectively that were classified as cost of revenues in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.

The depreciation and amortization expenses are associated with depreciating buildings, furniture, vehicles, equipment, software and other intangible assets over the estimated useful lives of the related assets. 

2021 compared to 2020

Depreciation and amortization expense in the year ended December 31, 2021 was up compared to 2020 primarily due to the amortization of Telecommunications and Electric Power segment acquisition intangibles and depreciation of equipment used by Telecommunications and Electric Power segments.

Provision for Bad Debt

Provision for bad debt in 2021 represented less than 1% of total revenues and related to miscellaneous receivables, which the Company had either recorded an allowance for doubtful collections of the receivable or for which the Company had determined the balance to be uncollectible. The provision for bad debt decreased in 2021 compared to 2020 as the 2020 provision for bad debt primarily related to accounts receivable write-offs on the Renewable segment's customer balances that were deemed to be uncollectible.

Other Income (Expense)

  

For the Years Ended December 31,

 
      

Percent

     

(Dollars in thousands)

 

2021

  

Change

  

2020

 

Foreign exchange gain (loss)

 $(500)  (198.6)% $507 

Interest income

  338   15.4%  293 

Sublet rental income

  501   50.9%  332 

Financial instrument income (expense)

  33   (100.0)%   

Gain (loss) on extinguishment of debt and loan modifications

  365   337.0%  (154)

Other, net

  40   900.0%  4 

Total other income (expense)

 $777   (20.9)% $982 

Fluctuations in Other Income (Expense) are largely due to fluctuations in foreign currency rates. Foreign currency gains and losses are primarily related to intercompany receivables/payables between Orbital Energy Group and its U.K Orbital Gas Systems subsidiary. Additionally, increased gain on extinguishment of debt primarily relates to the forgiveness by the U.S. government of certain payroll protection loans partially offset by the loss on extinguishment of debt related to exchange of common stock for debt payments. The increase in financial instrument income relates to a standalone financial instrument included in the subscription agreement related to the $105 million credit agreement utilized in the funding of the acquisition of Front Line Power Construction, LLC. This financial instrument is discussed further in Note 7. Increased sublet rental income is due to an increase in the square footage subleased in 2021 related to the Company’s previous corporate office in Oregon.  

Investment Income

Prior to the third quarter of 2020, based on its equity ownership and that the Company maintained a board seat and participated in operational activities of Virtual Power Systems ("VPS"), the Company maintained significant influence to account for the investment as an equity-method investment. Under the equity method of accounting, results are not consolidated, but the Company records a proportionate percentage of the profit or loss of VPS as an addition to or a subtraction from the VPS investment asset balance. With the decrease in ownership percentage following a Q3 2020 equity raise by VPS and additional board seats placed, Orbital Energy Group, Inc. no longer has significant influence to recognize the investment under the equity method. As such, the Company held the investment under the cost method as of December 31 2020 resulting in a $4.8 million loss on its equity-method investment in the six months ended June 30, 2020. The VPS investment continues to be held under the cost method and at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the Company’s basis in the investment was $1.1 million as reflected on the consolidated balance sheets.

Interest Expense

The Company incurred $8.3 million and $1.3 million of interest expense during 2021 and 2020, respectively. Interest expense is for interest on the short-term and long-term notes payable including syndicated debt agreement, seller-financed notes, non-recourse payable agreements, convertible note payable, insurance financing notes, secured promissory note, and lines of credit. The increase in interest expense in 2021 is related to the increase in notes payable outstanding as of December 31, 2021. See note 7 for more information on the Company's notes payable.

Provision (benefit) for taxes

The Company is subject to taxation in the U.S., various state and foreign jurisdictions. We continue to record a full valuation allowance against the Company's U.S. and U.K. net deferred tax assets as it is "not more likely than not," that the Company will realize a benefit from these assets in a future period. In future periods, tax benefits and related deferred tax assets will be recognized when management concludes realization of such amounts is "more likely than not."

2021 compared to 2020

In 2021, a net tax benefit of $10.5 million, was recorded to the income tax provision from continuing operations for the year ended December 31, 2021 resulting in an effective tax rate of 17.4% compared to a $1.5 million tax benefit from continuing operations for the year ended December 31, 2020 and an effective tax rate of 5.3%. For the year ended December 31, 2021, the income tax benefit primarily represents a decrease in the U.S. valuation allowance as a result of the GTS acquisition. For the year ended December 31, 2020, the income tax benefit primarily represents a decrease in the U.S. valuation allowance as a result of the Reach Construction Group, LLC acquisition. As of December 31, 2021, we have federal, state and foreign net operating loss carry forwards of approximately $97.3 million, $21.3 million, and $16.5 million, respectively, and for which the federal and state net operating loss carry-forwards will expire between 2026 and 2037.

Loss from Continuing Operations, net of income taxes

2021 compared to 2020

The Company had a loss from continuing operations, net of income taxes of $49.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 compared to a loss of $25.7 million in 2020. The increased loss from continuing operations, net of income taxes was attributable to start-up costs at the Company's Electric Power segment and projects with lower than normal margins during the period for the Renewables segment due to supply chain delays caused by COVID-19 leading to inefficiencies. In addition, the Company faced increased administrative costs from acquisition due diligence for the four companies acquired in 2021.

Income from Discontinued Operations, net of income taxes

2021 compared to 2020

The Company had loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes of $11.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 compared to a loss of $1.7 million in 2020. The increase in loss from discontinued operations is primarily due to impairment recognized at Orbital UK in 2021 of $9.2 million. As of December 31, 2021, Orbital UK was considered held for sale and their assets were written down to their expected sale price.

Consolidated Net Loss

2021 compared to 2020

The Company had a net loss of $61.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 compared to a net loss of $27.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2020. The increased consolidated net loss was attributable to start-up costs at the Company's Electric Power segment and projects with lower than normal margins during the period for Renewables segment due to supply chain delays caused by COVID-19 leading to inefficiencies, as well as increased administrative costs from acquisition due diligence for the four companies acquired in 2021.

Recently Adopted and Recently Issued Accounting Standards

Information on recently adopted and recently issued accounting standards is included in Note 2 Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Recent Accounting Pronouncements, to the Consolidated Financial Statements under Part II, Item 8, ‘‘Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.’’

Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure about Market Risk

We are exposed to market risk in the ordinary course of our business. Market risk represents the risk of loss that may impact our financial position due to adverse changes in financial market prices and rates. This market risk exposure is primarily a result of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates. The Company neither holds nor issues financial instruments for trading purposes.

The following sections provide quantitative information on the Company’s exposure to foreign currency exchange rate risk and stock price risk. The Company makes use of sensitivity analyses that are inherently limited in estimating actual losses in fair value that can occur from changes in market conditions.

Foreign Currency Exchange Rates

The Company conducts continuing operations in one principal currency: the U.S. dollar. This currency operates as the functional currency for the Company’s U.S. operations. Cash is managed centrally within  the  region with net earnings invested in the U.S. and working capital requirements met from existing U.S. intercompany liquid funds. 

Foreign currency translation risk is the risk that exchange rate gains or losses arise from translating foreign entities’ statements of earnings and balance sheets from functional currency to the Company’s reporting currency, the U.S. dollar, for consolidation purposes. As currency exchange rates fluctuate, translation of our Statements of our foreign operations into U.S. dollars affects the comparability of revenues and operating expenses between years.

Revenues and operating expenses are primarily denominated in the currencies of the equitycountries in which our continuing operations are located, which is the U.S. Our U.K. operations were reclassified to discontinued operations in 2021 and so the Company's revenues and operating expenses from continuing operations were not materially affected by foreign currency translation. We have limited operations in India and Australia. Our consolidated results of operations and cash flows are, therefore, subject to limited fluctuations due to changes in foreign currency exchange rates and is not expected to be adversely affected in the future due to changes in foreign exchange rates.

To date, we have not entered into any hedging arrangements with respect to foreign currency risk and have limited activity with forward foreign currency contracts or other similar derivative instruments. Various methods can be used to determine the fair value of an equity instrument. 

Investment Risk

The Company may usehas an Investment Policy that, inter alia, provides an internal control structure that takes into consideration safety (credit risk and interest rate risk), liquidity and yield. Our Investment officers, CEO and CFO, oversee the fair valueinvestment portfolio and compile a quarterly analysis of the consideration received, the quoted market price of the stock or a contemporaneous cash sale of the common or preferred stock. Each of these methods may produce a different result. Management uses the method it determines most appropriately reflects the stock transaction. If a different method was used it could impact the expense and equity stock accounts.investment portfolio when applicable for internal use. In 2019, 2018, and 2017,addition, the Company usedimplemented an Investment Committee in 2019 to administer and operate the quoted market priceportfolio. At December 31, 2021, the Investment Committee is comprised of C. Stephen Cochennet, Corey A. Lambrecht, Chairman, and Nicholas M. Grindstaff, CFO. See Item 10 of this Form 10-K for more information on the Company’s Investment Committee.

Cash and cash equivalents are diversified and maintained with several financial institutions. Deposits held with banks may exceed the amount of insurance provided on such deposits. Generally, these deposits may be redeemed upon demand and are maintained with financial institutions of reputable credit, therefore, bear minimal credit risk.

The Company has trade receivable and revenue concentrations with large customers. See Note 15 of the Company's common stock to estimatefinancial statements for more information on the fair valueCompany's concentration risks.

Item 8.  Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

 

This item includes the following financial information:

Page

Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (PCAOB ID Number 248)

46

Consolidated Balance Sheets

48

Consolidated Statements of Operations

49

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income and (Loss)

50

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity

51

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

52

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

54 – 89

   REPORTOF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

Board of Directors and Shareholders

Orbital Energy Group, Inc.

Opinion on the financial statements

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Orbital Energy Group, Inc. (a Colorado corporation) and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income and (loss), changes in stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2021, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2021, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

Basis for opinion

These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audits we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.

Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

Critical audit matters

The critical audit matters communicated below are matters arising from the current period audit of the financial statements that were communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that: (1) relate to accounts or disclosures that are material to the consolidated financial statements and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters does not alter in any way our opinion on the financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matters below, providing  separate opinions on the critical audit matters or on the accounts or disclosures to which they relate.

Revenue RecognitionVariable Consideration

On January 1, 2018,The nature of our contracts gives rise to several types of variable consideration. In rare instances, we adoptedinclude in our contract estimates, additional revenue for submitted contract modifications or claims against the accounting standard ASC 606, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers”customer when we believe we have an enforceable right to the modification or claim, the amount can be estimated reliably and allits realization is probable. In evaluating these criteria, we consider the related amendments (“contractual/legal basis for the claim, the cause of any additional costs incurred, the reasonableness of those costs and the objective evidence available to support the claim.  These amounts are included in our calculation of net revenue standard"), which supersedes nearly all existing revenue recognition guidance under U.S. GAAP. This guidance includesrecorded for our contracts and the required stepsassociated remaining performance obligations. Additionally, if the contract has a provision for liquidated damages in the case that the Company misses a timing target, or fails to achievemeet any other contract benchmarks, the core principle that a company should recognize revenue when it transfers promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the company expects to be entitled in exchangeCompany accounts for those goods or services. Theestimated liquidated damages as variable consideration and will adjust revenue standard was applied usingaccordingly with periodic updates to the modified retrospective method. Weestimated variable consideration as the job progresses. Liquidated damages are recognized as variable consideration only when the cumulative effect of initially applyingCompany estimates that they will be a factor in the revenue standard as an adjustment to accumulated deficit as of January 1, 2018. As a resultperformance of the adoption of this standard, certain changes have been made to the condensed consolidated balance sheets. We expect the ongoing impact of the adoption of the standard to primarily affect thecontract.

In contracts where there are timing of revenue recognition. The most significant impact was on the discontinued operations of the Power and Electromechanical segment revenue with certain distribution customers that were previously recorded as “sell through." Under the revenue accounting guidance,differences between when we record the revenue upon sale to the distributor with an appropriate amount reserved for estimated returns and allowances as the Company recognizes revenue at the time the related performance obligation is satisfied by transferringtransfer a promised good or service to its customers. For the majority ofcustomer and when the customer pays for that good or service, we have determined that, our contracts revenue is still measured over time using the cost-to-cost method. The change that most affected the transition adjustment on revenue was the requirement to limit revenue recognition on contracts without an enforceable right to payment for performance completed to date. Revenue on contracts withoutdo not include a specific enforceable right to payment on work performed to date was "clawed back" as part of the Company's transition adjustment. The cumulative effect adjustment recorded as of January 1, 2018 was a net $1.9 million decrease to accumulated deficit due to a $2.8 million transition adjustment from the discontinued Powersignificant financing component.

Liquidity and Electromechanical segment partially offset by a $(0.9) million transition adjustment from the Energy segment, net of deferred tax.Capital Resources

Company Conditions and Sources of Liquidity

The Company generates its revenuehas experienced net losses and cash outflows from cash used in operating activities over the past years. As of and for the twelve months ended December 31, 2021, the Company had an accumulated deficit of $210.9 million, loss from continuing operations of $49.8 million, and net cash used in operating activities of $45.7 million.


As of December 31, 2021, the Company had Cash and cash equivalents of $26.9 million available for working capital needs and planned capital asset expenditures and a portfolioworking capital deficit of products, services and resources that offerapproximately $33.3 million, including current maturities of debt. These factors initially raise substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a diverse range of personalized gas engineering solutionsgoing concern, but this doubt has been alleviated by the Company’s plans to raise sufficient capital to meet our current obligations over the next twelve months, in addition to the gas utilities, power generation, petrochemical, emissions, manufacturing and automotive industries, among others.

Orbital accounts for a majorityexpected recovery of its contract revenue proportionately over time. For our performance obligations satisfied over time, we recognize revenue by measuringassets to satisfy liabilities in the progress toward complete satisfactionnormal course of that performance obligation. The selection of the method to measure progress towards completion can be either an input method or an output method and requires judgment based on the nature of the goods or services to be provided.

For our construction contracts, revenue is generally recognized over time. Our fixed price construction projects generally use a cost-to-cost input method to measure our progress towards complete satisfaction of the performance obligation as we believe it best depicts the transfer of control to the customer. Under the cost-to-cost measure of progress, the extent of progress towards completion is measured based on the ratio of costs incurred to date to the total estimated costs at completion of the performance obligation.business.

 

The timingCompany has plans to access additional capital to meet its obligations for the twelve months from the date these financial statements are available to be issued. Historically, the Company has raised additional equity and debt financing to fund the expansion; refer to Note – 10 Stockholders Equity and Stock-Based Compensation and Note 7 — Notes Payable. The Company has also funded some of revenue recognitionits capital expenditures through long-term financing with lenders and other investors as also described in further detail in Note 7 Notes Payable. Our ability to raise the additional capital is dependent on a number of factors, including, but not limited to, the market demand for Energy products also depends onour common stock, which itself is subject to a number of business risks and uncertainties, our creditworthiness and the payment terms of the contract, as our performance does not create an asset with an alternative useuncertainty that we would be able to raise such additional capital at a price that is favorable to us. The Company currently has an effective S-3 shelf registration statement with $112 million of aggregate offering value available for the issuance of various types of securities, including common stock, preferred stock, debt securities and/or warrants. While management will look to continue funding future acquisitions, organic growth initiatives and continuing operations by raising additional capital from sources such as sales of its debt or equity securities or notes payable in order to meet operating cash requirements, there is no assurance that management’s plans will be successful.

As the Company continues its progression to build a full-service infrastructure services platform, a successful transition to attaining profitable operations is dependent upon achieving a level of positive cash flows through generating adequate revenue growth to support the Company’s cost structure. For those contracts whichthe twelve months ended December 31, 2021, our revenues have increased by $61.5 million resulting in a 286% increase in revenue from the prior year. The significant increase in revenues during the year was primarily driven by the strategic acquisitions of Front Line Power Construction, LLC, Gibson Technical Services, IMMCO, Inc., and Full Moon Telecom, LLC made coupled with organic growth within Orbital Power Services. In addition, two large utility scale solar projects were awarded to Orbital Solar Systems during the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2021. We anticipate, based on currently proposed plans and assumptions relating to our operations, the Company to generate sufficient revenue growth required to achieve profitability and generate positive cash flows from operations over the next twelve months. No assurance can be made that we have a rightwill be able to payment for performance completedobtain profitability and positive cash flows from our continuing operations.

The Company plans to date at all times throughout our performance, inclusive of a cancellation, we recognize revenuemeet its obligations as they become due over time. As discussed above, these performance obligations use a cost-to-cost input method to measure our progress towards complete satisfaction of the performance obligation asnext twelve months by raising additional capital through equity and debt financing sources and expected positive cash flows generated from operations. Given the considerations, we believe it best depicts the transfermitigating effect of controlmanagement’s plans has alleviated any substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to the customer. However, for those contracts for which we do not havecontinue as a right, at all times, to payment for performance completed to date, we recognize revenue at the point in time when control is transferred to the customer, generally when shipped.going concern.

 

 

For our services contracts, revenueCash used in Operations

There was a use of cash from operations of approximately $45.7 million during the year ended December 31, 2021 compared to a $15.0 million use of cash in 2020. This was an increase in the use of cash from operations of approximately $30.7 million from the year ended December 31, 2020. Overall, the change in cash used in operations is generally recognized over timeprimarily the result of the loss from continuing operations, net of income taxes in 2021 and changes in assets and liabilities.

Increased uses of cash in 2021 are primarily for normal administrative costs, and cash usage in the Electric Power segment primarily related to start-up costs and Renewables primarily related to its loss from operations. While the Company saw an initial cost increase from the Electric Power segment, management expects this segment to become cash flow positive, as the customer simultaneously receivesbusiness environment normalizes and consumes the benefits of our performance as we perform the service. For our fixed priceit continues to increase service contractscrews deployed. The Company believes that revenue generated by recent Telecommunications and Electric Power acquisitions will improve cash flow from operating activities. The Company believes overall cash used in operations will improve through revenue growth associated with specified service periods, revenue is generally recognized on a straight-line basis over such service period when our inputs are expended evenly,new customers and the customer receives and consumes the benefits of our performance throughout the contract term.larger projects. 

 

For certain of our revenue streams, such as call-out repairDuring 2021, in addition to the Company's net loss after non-cash items, significant factors affecting cash used in operating activities included the change in trade accounts receivable, accrued liabilities, and service work, outage services and training that are performed under time and materials contracts, our progress towards complete satisfaction of such performance obligations is measured using an output method as the customer receives and consumes the benefits of our performance completed to date.

Due to uncertainties inherent in the estimation process, it is possible that estimates of costs to complete a performance obligation will be revised in the near-term. For those performance obligations for which revenue is recognized using a cost-to-cost input method, changes in total estimated costs, and related progress towards complete satisfaction of the performance obligation, are recognized on a cumulative catch-up basiscontract liabilities. The change in the period in which the revisions to the estimates are made. When the current estimate of total coststrade accounts receivable accounted for a performance obligation indicate a loss, a provision for$19.2 million use of cash in operating activities and was due to increased trades account receivable balances from the entire estimated loss on the unsatisfied performance obligation is madeElectric Power and Renewables segments. Accrued expenses and Accrued Compensation increased by $4.5 million primarily related to increased accrued compensation expense in the period in which the loss becomes evident.

Product-type contracts (for example, sale of GasPT units) for which revenue does not qualify2021 related to be recognized over time are recognized at a point in time. Revenues from extended warranty and maintenance activities are recognized ratably over the term of the warranty and maintenance period.

Accounts Receivable, Contract Assets and Contract Liabilities

Accounts receivable are recognized in the period when our right to consideration is unconditional. We also assess our customers' ability and intention to pay, which is based on a variety of factors, including our historical payment experience with and the financial condition of our customers. Payment terms and conditions vary by contract, although our standard terms include a requirement of payment within 30 days. Accounts receivable are recognized net of an allowance for doubtful accounts.

The timing of revenue recognition may differ from the timing of invoicing to customers. Contract assets include unbilled amounts from our construction projects when revenue recognized underpayroll expense along with increased accrued expenses at the cost-to-cost measure of progress exceeds the amounts invoiced to our customers, as the amounts cannot be billed under the terms of our contracts. Such amounts are recoverable from our customers based upon various measures of performance, including achievement of certain milestones, completion of specified units or completion of a contract. Also includedcorporate level for interest payable on outstanding debt. Change in contract assets are amounts we seek or will seekliabilities was a source of cash due to collect from customers or others for errors orincreased billings in excess of cash at the Renewables segment.

During 2020, in addition to the Company's net loss after non-cash items, significant factors affecting cash used in operating activities included the change in accrued liabilities, accounts payable and changes in contract specifications or design,liabilities. A use of cash of $1.2 million in accrued liabilities related largely to the payout of severance at CUI Canada that was accrued for in 2019. Change in accounts payable, which was a $3.5 million use of cash, was largely due to the paydown of accounts payable at the Renewables segment, which was acquired on April 1, 2020. Accounts payable paid down did not get replaced at the same rate due to decreased business activity at the Renewables segment due to the COVID-19 pandemic and timing of customer projects.  Change in contract change orders or modificationsliabilities was a source of cash due to increased billings in dispute or unapprovedexcess of cash at the Renewables segment partially offset by the decrease in provision for loss contracts at the Renewables segment as to both scope and/or price or other customer-related causes of unanticipated additionalthe estimated contract costs (claims and unapproved change orders). Our contract assets do not include capitalized costs to obtain and fulfill a contract. Contract assets are generally classifiedlosses recorded on the acquisition date were realized as current within the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Contract liabilities from our construction contracts occur when amounts invoiced to our customers exceed revenues recognized under the cost-to-cost measure of progress. Contract liabilities additionally include advanced payments from our customers on certain contracts. Contract liabilities decrease as we recognize revenue from the satisfaction of the related performance obligation and are recorded as either current or long-term, depending upon when we expect to recognize such revenue.

Performance Obligations

Remaining Performance Obligations

Remaining performance obligations represents the transaction price of contracts with customers for which work has not been performed and excludes unexercised contract options and potential orders under ordering-type contracts. As of December 31, 2019, the Company's remaining performance obligations are generally expected to be filled within the next 12 months.vendors were paid.

 

 

Any adjustmentsDuring 2021 and 2020, the Company used stock and options as a form of payment to net revenues, costcertain vendors, consultants, directors and employees. For years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, the Company recorded a total of revenues,$12.2 million and the$0.3 million, respectively for share-based compensation related impact to operating income are recognizedequity given, or to be given, to employees, directors and consultants for services provided and as necessarypayment for royalties earned. The increase in 2021 compared to 2020 was due to greater stock-based bonuses, and greater stock-based director compensation. In addition, there was a fair value adjustment to stock appreciation rights of $2.1 million in 2021 compared to a fair value adjustment of $0.6 million in 2020. Stock appreciate rights were exchanged for restricted stock units in the period they become known.first quarter of 2022. There was no stock option vesting expense in 2021 or 2020.

Capital Expenditures and Investments

In 2021, the Company paid $132.5 million cash for acquisitions, net of cash received. 

During the years ended 2021 and 2020, Orbital Energy Group invested $7.8 million and $1.7 million, respectively, in fixed assets. These adjustments may result from positive program performance,investments typically include additions to equipment including vehicles and may result in anequipment for powerline service and maintenance, telecommunications service and maintenance, engineering and research and development, tooling for manufacturing, furniture, computer equipment for office personnel, facilities improvements and other fixed assets as needed for operations. The increase in operating income2021 was due to the start-up costs associated with the Company's Electric Power segment along with increased equipment at the Telecommunications segment. The Company anticipates further investment in fixed assets during the performance2022 in support of individual performance obligations, if we determine we will be successfulits on-going business and continued development of product lines, technologies and services.

Orbital Energy Group invested $0.7 million and $11 thousand in mitigating risks surrounding the technical, scheduleother intangible assets during 2021 and cost aspects of those performance obligations. Likewise, these adjustments may result2020, respectively. These investments typically include product certifications, technology rights, capitalized website development, software for engineering and research and development and software upgrades for office personnel. The increase in a decrease in operating income if we determine we will not be successful in mitigating these risks. Changes in estimates of net revenues, cost of revenues and the related impact to operating income are recognized on a cumulative catch-up basis in the period they become known, which recognizescash paid for investments in the current periodyear primarily relates to VE Technology purchased by Orbital Gas Systems North America, now classified as discontinued operations.

In 2021, the cumulative effectCompany entered into finance lease agreements that required payment of deposits. Per the changesagreement, these deposits should be returned 36 months after the lease commences. During 2021 the Company paid $0.8 million on current and prior periods based onfinance lease deposits compared to zero in 2020.

In 2021 the Company recognized proceeds from notes receivable of $0.6 million compared to zero in 2020. Cash used in purchase of short-term investments of $1.0 million in 2021 compared to zero in 2020.

The Company made an additional $0.3 million investment in a performance obligation's percentage of completion. A significant changeconvertible note receivable from Virtual Power Systems ("VPS") in one or more of these estimates could affect2020 including payments made related to the profitability of one or more of our performance obligations. For separately priced extended warranty or product maintenance performance obligations, when estimates of total costsCompany's transition agreement with VPS. This note was converted to be incurred on the performance obligation exceed total estimates of revenue to be earned, a provision for the entire loss on the performance obligation is recognizedequity in VPS in the period the loss is determined.

Performance Obligations Satisfied Over Time

To determine the proper revenue recognition method for contracts, we evaluate whetherthird quarter of 2020 along with an additional contribution of $0.5 million and a single contract should be accounted for as more than one performance obligation. This evaluation requires significant judgment and the decision to separate the single contract into multiple performance obligations could changenon-cash contribution of inventory in the amount of revenue and profit recorded in a given period.$0.3 million.

 

For most

 

Performance Obligations Satisfied at a Point in Time.Financing Activities

Revenue from goods and services transferred to customers at a single point in time accounted for 29% and 22% of revenues forDuring the years ended December 31, 20192021 and 2018.2020, the Company issued payments of $2.0 million and $4 thousand, against finance leases of equipment. The Company had proceeds from notes payable in 2021 of $143.0 million, compared to $8.1 million in 2020. See Note 7, Note payable for more information on the Company's notes payable. The Company made payments on notes payable of $9.9 million in 2021 and $4.1 million in 2020. 

On August 19, 2021, the Company's Telecommunications segment entered into a $4.0 million variable rate line of credit agreement. Interest accrues at a rate of 2.05% over the Daily Simple Secured Overnight Financing Rate ("SOFR") index rate. At December 31, 2021 the Company had an outstanding balance on the line of credit of $2.5 million and $1.5 million was available for borrowing. In 2020, the $0.4 million line of credit balance was held at the Renewables segment. The Renewable segment line of credit was paid and closed in the first quarter of 2021.

S-3 registration and share issuances

The Company filed an S-3 registration statement on July 17, 2020 containing a prospectus that was effective in September 2020. The Company utilized this filing in January 2021 to issue common stock for $45 million before costs. The Company filed a new S-3 shelf registration in January 2021, which, as amended, became effective in April 2021. With this filing, Orbital Energy Group may from time-to-time issue various types of securities, including common stock, preferred stock, debt securities and/or warrants, up to an aggregate amount of $150 million. The Company utilized this S-3 registration to issue additional common stock in July 2021 for $38 million before costs of approximately $2.3 million for net proceeds of approximately $35.7 million. 

As the Company focuses on growing its infrastructure services market presence both organically and through strategic acquisitions, technology development, product and service line additions, and increasing Orbital’s market presence, it will fund these activities together with related operating, sales and marketing efforts for its various product offerings with cash on hand, and possible proceeds from future issuances of equity through the S-3 registration statement, and available debt.

Orbital Energy Group may raise additional capital needed to fund the further development and marketing of its products and services as well as payment of its debt obligations.

See the section entitled Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities for a complete listing of all unregistered securities transactions.

Recap of Liquidity and Capital Resources

The Company had a net loss of $61.2 million and cash used in operating activities of $45.7 million during 2021. As of December 31, 2021, the Company's accumulated deficit is $210.9 million. The Company has supplemented its liquidity by issuing $45 million of shares of stock in January 2021 and $38 million shares of stock in July 2021. In November 2021, the Company entered into a Credit Agreement with Alter Domus (US), LLC, as administrative agent and collateral agent and various lenders (the “Lenders”) in order to enable the Company to finance the acquisition of Front Line Power Construction, LLC (“Front Line”) (the “Acquisition”). Pursuant to the Credit Agreement, the Lenders made a Term Loan to Front Line in the initial principal amount of $105 million for the purposes of financing the Acquisition and the associated expenses. The Term Loan initially bears interest at the three-month Adjusted LIBOR Rate, plus the Applicable Margin, of which 2.5% may be paid in-kind. The Term Loan shall be repaid in consecutive quarterly installments of $262,500, commencing on June 30, 2022. The Credit Agreement provides for mandatory prepayments on the occurrence of events such as sales of assets, Consolidated Excess Cash Flow and Excess Receipts during the term. The Credit Agreement provides for prepayment premiums (initially 5% on prepayments made in the first 30 months of the term, declining to 1% in the final year of the term). The Term Loan matures on November 17, 2026, subject to acceleration on Events of Default. Additionally, the Company issued two, unsecured promissory notes to the sellers of Front Line in the aggregate principle amount outstanding of $86.7 million with a maturity date of May 17, 2022 and an interest rate of 6% per annum. The seller notes were amended in the first quarter of 2022 so that $35 million will be due in 2022 and the remaining portion of the seller notes will be due May 31, 2023.

At December 31, 2021, and 2020 the Company had cash and cash equivalents balances of $26.9 million and $3.0 million. At December 31, 2021 and 2020, the Company had $2.3 million and $0.6 million, respectively, of cash and cash equivalents balances at domestic financial institutions, which were covered under the FDIC insured deposits programs and $0.4 million and $0.2 million, respectively, of cash and cash equivalents covered at foreign financial institutions. At December 31, 2021 and 2020, the Company held $2.1 million and $2.2 million, respectively, in foreign bank accounts.

The following tables present our contractual obligations as of December 31, 2021:

  

Payments due by period

 
  

Less than

                 

(In thousands)

 

1 year

  

1 to 3 years

  

3 to 5 years

  

After 5 years

  

Total

 

Financing lease obligations:

                    

Minimum lease payments

 $5,729  $9,980  $576  $  $16,285 
                     

Operating lease obligations:

                    

Operating lease - minimum payments

  5,767   8,789   4,093   2,714   21,363 
                     

Notes payable obligations:

                    

Notes payable maturities plus interest

  97,659   92,077   130,053      319,789 

Total Obligations

 $109,155  $110,846  $134,722  $2,714  $357,437 

The above notes payable maturities reflects the agreement made with the Front Line sellers to extend the maturity date for those agreements from May 16, 2022 to May 31, 2023, with $35 million being due in 2022 and the remaining principal due in 2023. 

As of December 31, 2021, the Company had an accumulated deficit of $210.9 million. 

The Company expects the revenues from its continuing operations to cover operating and other expenses for the next twelve months of operations. However, in the short-term, the Company expects its operating units to need cash support as the Company acquires fixed assets to grow their businesses. Further equity issuance or borrowing may be required to fund future acquisitions.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements - Obligations under Certain Guarantee Contracts

The Company may enter into guarantee arrangements in the normal course of business to facilitate commercial transactions with third parties. As of December 31, 2021, the Company is an indemnitor on four surety bonds and had three letters of credit off-balance sheet for a total dollar value of approximately $131.8 million. Two bonds were with the Renewables segment for a total of $127.0 million dollars for two construction projects. At the Electric Power segment there were two bonds totaling $3.8 million for various unit-based construction jobs. For the projects related to these bonds, bonds, there was $110.7 million in costs left to complete the projects at December 31, 2021. The Company held three off-balance sheet letters of credit as of December 31, 2021. The Telecommunications segment had a letter of credit for $0.4 million, Discontinued UK operations for $54 thousand and Renewables for $0.6 million. The Company does not expect any liability associated with these off-balance sheet arrangements.

Results of Operations

The following tables set forth, for the periods indicated, Revenue and income (loss) from operations by segment:

                     

(Dollars in thousands)

  For the Year Ended December 31, 2021                 
  

Telecommunications

  

Electric Power

  

Renewables

  

Other

  

Total

 

Total Revenues

 $27,799  $43,599  $11,550  $  $82,948 

Income (Loss) from operations

 $43  $(13,215) $(19,043) $(20,576) $(52,791)


 

                     

(Dollars in thousands)

  For the Year Ended December 31, 2020             
  

Telecommunications

  

Electric Power

  

Renewables

  

Other

  

Total

 

Total Revenues

 $  $8,482  $13,005  $  $21,487 

Loss from operations

 $  $(4,942) $(5,479) $(11,610) $(22,031)

Revenue

  

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

Revenues by Segment

     

Percent

     

(Dollars in thousands)

 

2021

  

Change

  

2020

 

Telecommunications

 $27,799   100.0% $ 

Electric Power

  43,599   414.0%  8,482 

Renewables

  11,550   (11.2)%  13,005 

Total revenues

 $82,948   286.0% $21,487 

2021 compared to 2020

Revenues in 2021 are attributable to newly acquired entities, continued sales, and marketing efforts. Net revenues for the year ended December 31, 2021 were greater than in 2020 due to the acquisitions in the Telecommunications and Electric Power segments and the development of the Company's Electric Power business. This increase was partially offset by lower renewables revenue at Orbital Solar Services during 2021. Revenues will fluctuate generally around the timing of customer project delivery schedules. 

The Electric Power segment held backlogs of customer orders of approximately $207.7 million as of December 31, 2021 and $22.2 million at December 31, 2020. The Renewables segment held backlogs of customer orders of approximately $121.4 million as of December 31, compared to $8.1 million as of December 31, 2020. Telecommunications, had backlogs of customer orders of approximately $194.5 million compared to zero as of December 31, 2020.

Cost of Revenues

2021 compared to 2020

For the year ended December 31, 2021, the cost of revenues as a percentage of revenue increased to 94.8% from 91.1% during 2020. This increase was attributable to start-up costs at the Company’s Electric Power segment and lower margin projects during the period for Orbital Solar Services. Margins will vary based upon the mix of work provided, proprietary technology included in projects, contract labor necessary to complete projects, and the competitive markets in which the Company competes. The year ended December 31, 2021 was also affected negatively by the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting world-wide economic slowdown.

The Company expects continued improvement in 2022 with the addition of the newly acquired companies Gibson Technical Services, IMMCO, Inc., Full Moon Telecom, LLC, and Front Line Power Construction, LLC. These acquired entities have been profitable from acquisition. With the addition of these entities, the Company expects synergies that will promote efficiencies and increase revenue in the years to come. Additionally, two large solar projects are scheduled to ramp up in 2022 and increase revenue.

Selling, General and Administrative Expense

Selling, General and Administrative (SG&A) expenses includes such items as wages, commissions, consulting, general office expenses, business promotion expenses and costs of being a public company including legal and accounting fees, insurance and investor relations. SG&A expenses are generally associated with the ongoing activities to reach new customers, promote new product lines including Telecommunications, Electric Power, and Renewables segments and other new product and service introductions.

2021 compared to 2020

During the year ended December 31, 2021, SG&A increased $31.0 million compared to the year ended December 31, 2020. The increase in SG&A for 2021 compared to 2020 was due to the addition of entities in our Telecommunications and Electric Power segments. Additionally, the Electric Power segment experienced increased start-up SG&A costs around increased payroll and insurance expense. Also contributing to SG&A were increased corporate costs largely due to strategic initiatives, which included increased professional fees and costs associated with due diligence activities related to acquisitions. 

SG&A decreased to 60.3% of total revenue in 2021 compared to 88.6% of total revenue during the year ended December 31, 2020 due to economies of scale on 286.0% higher consolidated revenues.

Depreciation and Amortization

  

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

Depreciation and Amortization by Segment

     

Percent

     

(Dollars in thousands)

 

2021

  

Change

  

2020

 

Telecommunications

 $2,326   100.0% $ 

Electric Power

  5,969   1278.5%  433 

Renewables

  2,931   (10.6)%  3,278 

Other

  1,684   10.1%  1,530 

Total depreciation and amortization (1)

 $12,910   146.3% $5,241 

(1) For the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, depreciation and amortization totals included $1.6 million and $1.5 million, respectively that were classified in income from discontinued operations on the Consolidated Statements of Operations in the Other segment. For the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, depreciation and amortization totals included $4.5 million and $0.5 million, respectively that were classified as cost of revenues in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.

The depreciation and amortization expenses are associated with depreciating buildings, furniture, vehicles, equipment, software and other intangible assets over the estimated useful lives of the related assets. 

2021 compared to 2020

Depreciation and amortization expense in the year ended December 31, 2021 was up compared to 2020 primarily due to the amortization of Telecommunications and Electric Power segment acquisition intangibles and depreciation of equipment used by Telecommunications and Electric Power segments.

Provision for Bad Debt

Provision for bad debt in 2021 represented less than 1% of total revenues and related to miscellaneous receivables, which the Company had either recorded an allowance for doubtful collections of the receivable or for which the Company had determined the balance to be uncollectible. The provision for bad debt decreased in 2021 compared to 2020 as the 2020 provision for bad debt primarily related to accounts receivable write-offs on the Renewable segment's customer balances that were deemed to be uncollectible.

Other Income (Expense)

  

For the Years Ended December 31,

 
      

Percent

     

(Dollars in thousands)

 

2021

  

Change

  

2020

 

Foreign exchange gain (loss)

 $(500)  (198.6)% $507 

Interest income

  338   15.4%  293 

Sublet rental income

  501   50.9%  332 

Financial instrument income (expense)

  33   (100.0)%   

Gain (loss) on extinguishment of debt and loan modifications

  365   337.0%  (154)

Other, net

  40   900.0%  4 

Total other income (expense)

 $777   (20.9)% $982 

Fluctuations in Other Income (Expense) are largely due to fluctuations in foreign currency rates. Foreign currency gains and losses are primarily related to intercompany receivables/payables between Orbital Energy Group and its U.K Orbital Gas Systems subsidiary. Additionally, increased gain on extinguishment of debt primarily relates to the forgiveness by the U.S. government of certain payroll protection loans partially offset by the loss on extinguishment of debt related to exchange of common stock for debt payments. The increase in financial instrument income relates to a standalone financial instrument included in the subscription agreement related to the $105 million credit agreement utilized in the funding of the acquisition of Front Line Power Construction, LLC. This financial instrument is discussed further in Note 7. Increased sublet rental income is due to an increase in the square footage subleased in 2021 related to the Company’s previous corporate office in Oregon.  

Investment Income

Prior to the third quarter of 2020, based on its equity ownership and that the Company maintained a board seat and participated in operational activities of Virtual Power Systems ("VPS"), the Company maintained significant influence to account for the investment as an equity-method investment. Under the equity method of accounting, results are not consolidated, but the Company records a proportionate percentage of the profit or loss of VPS as an addition to or a subtraction from the VPS investment asset balance. With the decrease in ownership percentage following a Q3 2020 equity raise by VPS and additional board seats placed, Orbital Energy Group, Inc. no longer has significant influence to recognize the investment under the equity method. As such, the Company held the investment under the cost method as of December 31 2020 resulting in a $4.8 million loss on its equity-method investment in the six months ended June 30, 2020. The VPS investment continues to be held under the cost method and at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the Company’s basis in the investment was $1.1 million as reflected on the consolidated balance sheets.

Interest Expense

The Company incurred $8.3 million and $1.3 million of interest expense during 2021 and 2020, respectively. Interest expense is for interest on the short-term and long-term notes payable including syndicated debt agreement, seller-financed notes, non-recourse payable agreements, convertible note payable, insurance financing notes, secured promissory note, and lines of credit. The increase in interest expense in 2021 is related to the increase in notes payable outstanding as of December 31, 2021. See note 7 for more information on the Company's notes payable.

Provision (benefit) for taxes

The Company is subject to taxation in the U.S., various state and foreign jurisdictions. We continue to record a full valuation allowance against the Company's U.S. and U.K. net deferred tax assets as it is "not more likely than not," that the Company will realize a benefit from these contracts isassets in a future period. In future periods, tax benefits and related deferred tax assets will be recognized when management concludes realization of such amounts is "more likely than not."

2021 compared to 2020

In 2021, a net tax benefit of $10.5 million, was recorded to the productincome tax provision from continuing operations for the year ended December 31, 2021 resulting in an effective tax rate of 17.4% compared to a $1.5 million tax benefit from continuing operations for the year ended December 31, 2020 and an effective tax rate of 5.3%. For the year ended December 31, 2021, the income tax benefit primarily represents a decrease in the U.S. valuation allowance as a result of the GTS acquisition. For the year ended December 31, 2020, the income tax benefit primarily represents a decrease in the U.S. valuation allowance as a result of the Reach Construction Group, LLC acquisition. As of December 31, 2021, we have federal, state and foreign net operating loss carry forwards of approximately $97.3 million, $21.3 million, and $16.5 million, respectively, and for which the federal and state net operating loss carry-forwards will expire between 2026 and 2037.

Loss from Continuing Operations, net of income taxes

2021 compared to 2020

The Company had a loss from continuing operations, net of income taxes of $49.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 compared to a loss of $25.7 million in 2020. The increased loss from continuing operations, net of income taxes was attributable to start-up costs at the Company's Electric Power segment and projects with lower than normal margins during the period for the Renewables segment due to supply chain delays caused by COVID-19 leading to inefficiencies. In addition, the Company faced increased administrative costs from acquisition due diligence for the four companies acquired in 2021.

Income from Discontinued Operations, net of income taxes

2021 compared to 2020

The Company had loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes of $11.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 compared to a loss of $1.7 million in 2020. The increase in loss from discontinued operations is shippedprimarily due to impairment recognized at Orbital UK in 2021 of $9.2 million. As of December 31, 2021, Orbital UK was considered held for sale and their assets were written down to their expected sale price.

Consolidated Net Loss

2021 compared to 2020

The Company had a net loss of $61.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 compared to a net loss of $27.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2020. The increased consolidated net loss was attributable to start-up costs at the Company's Electric Power segment and projects with lower than normal margins during the period for Renewables segment due to supply chain delays caused by COVID-19 leading to inefficiencies, as well as increased administrative costs from acquisition due diligence for the four companies acquired in 2021.

Recently Adopted and Recently Issued Accounting Standards

Information on recently adopted and recently issued accounting standards is included in Note 2 Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Recent Accounting Pronouncements, to the Consolidated Financial Statements under Part II, Item 8, ‘‘Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.’’

Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure about Market Risk

We are exposed to market risk in the ordinary course of our business. Market risk represents the risk of loss that may impact our financial position due to adverse changes in financial market prices and rates. This market risk exposure is primarily a result of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates. The Company neither holds nor issues financial instruments for trading purposes.

The following sections provide quantitative information on the Company’s exposure to foreign currency exchange rate risk and stock price risk. The Company makes use of sensitivity analyses that are inherently limited in estimating actual losses in fair value that can occur from changes in market conditions.

Foreign Currency Exchange Rates

The Company conducts continuing operations in one principal currency: the U.S. dollar. This currency operates as the functional currency for the Company’s U.S. operations. Cash is managed centrally within  the  region with net earnings invested in the U.S. and working capital requirements met from existing U.S. intercompany liquid funds. 

Foreign currency translation risk is the risk that exchange rate gains or losses arise from translating foreign entities’ statements of earnings and balance sheets from functional currency to the Company’s reporting currency, the U.S. dollar, for consolidation purposes. As currency exchange rates fluctuate, translation of our Statements of our foreign operations into U.S. dollars affects the comparability of revenues and operating expenses between years.

Revenues and operating expenses are primarily denominated in the currencies of the countries in which our continuing operations are located, which is the U.S. Our U.K. operations were reclassified to discontinued operations in 2021 and so the Company's revenues and operating expenses from continuing operations were not materially affected by foreign currency translation. We have limited operations in India and Australia. Our consolidated results of operations and cash flows are, therefore, subject to limited fluctuations due to changes in foreign currency exchange rates and is not expected to be adversely affected in the future due to changes in foreign exchange rates.

To date, we have not entered into any hedging arrangements with respect to foreign currency risk and have limited activity with forward foreign currency contracts or other similar derivative instruments.

Investment Risk

The Company has an Investment Policy that, inter alia, provides an internal control structure that takes into consideration safety (credit risk and interest rate risk), liquidity and yield. Our Investment officers, CEO and CFO, oversee the investment portfolio and compile a quarterly analysis of the investment portfolio when applicable for internal use. In addition, the Company implemented an Investment Committee in 2019 to administer and operate the portfolio. At December 31, 2021, the Investment Committee is comprised of C. Stephen Cochennet, Corey A. Lambrecht, Chairman, and Nicholas M. Grindstaff, CFO. See Item 10 of this Form 10-K for more information on the Company’s Investment Committee.

Cash and cash equivalents are diversified and maintained with several financial institutions. Deposits held with banks may exceed the amount of insurance provided on such deposits. Generally, these deposits may be redeemed upon demand and are maintained with financial institutions of reputable credit, therefore, bear minimal credit risk.

The Company has trade receivable and revenue concentrations with large customers. See Note 15 of the Company's financial statements for more information on the Company's concentration risks.

Item 8.  Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

This item includes the following financial information:

Page

Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (PCAOB ID Number 248)

46

Consolidated Balance Sheets

48

Consolidated Statements of Operations

49

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income and (Loss)

50

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity

51

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

52

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

54 – 89

   REPORTOF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

Board of Directors and Shareholders

Orbital Energy Group, Inc.

Opinion on the financial statements

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Orbital Energy Group, Inc. (a Colorado corporation) and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income and (loss), changes in stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2021, and the customer takes ownershiprelated notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the product. DeterminationCompany as of control transferDecember 31, 2021 and 2020, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2021, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

Basis for opinion

These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is determined by shipping terms delineatedto express an opinion on the customer purchase ordersCompany’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and is generally when shipped.are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

 

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audits we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.

Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

Critical audit matters

The critical audit matters communicated below are matters arising from the current period audit of the financial statements that were communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that: (1) relate to accounts or disclosures that are material to the consolidated financial statements and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters does not alter in any way our opinion on the financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matters below, providing  separate opinions on the critical audit matters or on the accounts or disclosures to which they relate.

Variable Consideration

The nature of our contracts gives rise to several types of variable consideration, including new product returns and scrap return allowances.consideration. In rare instances, we include in our contract estimates, additional revenue for submitted contract modifications or claims against the customer when we believe we have an enforceable right to the modification or claim, the amount can be estimated reliably and its realization is probable. In evaluating these criteria, we consider the contractual/legal basis for the claim, the cause of any additional costs incurred, the reasonableness of those costs and the objective evidence available to support the claim.  We include new product introduction and scrap return estimates in our calculation of net revenue when there is a basis to reasonably estimate the amount of the returns. These estimates are based on historical return experience, anticipated returns and our best judgment at the time. These amounts are included in our calculation of net revenue recorded for our contracts and the associated remaining performance obligations.

Significant Judgments

Our contracts with certain customers may be subject to contract cancellation clauses. Contracts with other cancellation provisions may require judgment in determining Additionally, if the contract term, includinghas a provision for liquidated damages in the existence of material rights, transaction pricecase that the Company misses a timing target, or fails to meet any other contract benchmarks, the Company accounts for those estimated liquidated damages as variable consideration and identifyingwill adjust revenue accordingly with periodic updates to the estimated variable consideration as the job progresses. Liquidated damages are recognized as variable consideration only when the Company estimates that they will be a factor in the performance obligations and whether a contract should be accounted for over time or on a completed contract basis. Revenue is recognized for certain integration systems over time using cost-based input methods, in which significant judgement is required to evaluate assumptions includingof the amount of total estimated costs to determine our progress towards contract completion and to calculate the corresponding amount of revenue to recognize.

At times, customers may request changes that either amend, replace or cancel existing contracts. Judgment is required to determine whether the specific facts and circumstances within the contracts require the changes to be accounted for as a separate contract or as a modification. Generally, contract modifications containing additional goods and services that are determined to be distinct and sold at their stand-alone selling price are accounted for as a separate contract. For contract modifications where goods and services are not determined to be distinct and sold at their stand-alone selling price, the original contract is updated and the required adjustments to revenue and contract assets, liabilities, and other accounts will be made accordingly.

Our contracts with customers often include promises to transfer multiple products and services to a customer. Determining whether products and services are considered distinct performance obligations that should be accounted for separately rather than together may require significant judgment. For, example, we consider many of our contracts that coordinate multiple products into an integrated system to be a single performance obligation, while the same products would be considered separate performance obligations if not so integrated.

 

In contracts where there are timing differences between when we transfer a promised good or service to the customer and when the customer pays for that good or service, we have determined that, our contracts do not include a significant financing component.

 

LiquidityLiquidity and Capital Resources

General

Company Conditions and Sources of Liquidity

The Company has experienced net losses and cash outflows from cash used in operating activities over the past years. As of and for the twelve months ended December 31, 2021, the Company had an accumulated deficit of $210.9 million, loss from continuing operations of $49.8 million, and net cash used in operating activities of $45.7 million.


As of December 31, 2019, CUI Global held2021, the Company had Cash and cash equivalents of $23.4 million. Operations,$26.9 million available for working capital needs and planned capital asset expenditures and a working capital deficit of approximately $33.3 million, including current maturities of debt. These factors initially raise substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern, but this doubt has been alleviated by the Company’s plans to raise sufficient capital to meet our current obligations over the next twelve months, in addition to the expected recovery of our assets to satisfy liabilities in the normal course of business.

The Company has plans to access additional capital to meet its obligations for the twelve months from the date these financial statements are available to be issued. Historically, the Company has raised additional equity and debt financing to fund the expansion; refer to Note – 10 Stockholders Equity and Stock-Based Compensation and Note 7 — Notes Payable. The Company has also funded some of its capital expenditures through long-term financing with lenders and other intangible assets,investors as also described in further detail in Note 7 Notes Payable. Our ability to raise the additional capital is dependent on a number of factors, including, but not limited to, the market demand for our common stock, which itself is subject to a number of business risks and equipmentuncertainties, our creditworthiness and the uncertainty that we would be able to raise such additional capital at a price that is favorable to us. The Company currently has an effective S-3 shelf registration statement with $112 million of aggregate offering value available for the issuance of various types of securities, including common stock, preferred stock, debt securities and/or warrants. While management will look to continue funding future acquisitions, organic growth initiatives and continuing operations by raising additional capital from sources such as sales of its debt or equity securities or notes payable in order to meet operating cash requirements, there is no assurance that management’s plans will be successful.

As the Company continues its progression to build a full-service infrastructure services platform, a successful transition to attaining profitable operations is dependent upon achieving a level of positive cash flows through generating adequate revenue growth to support the Company’s cost structure. For the twelve months ended December 31, 2021, our revenues have been funded through cash on hand and short-term credit facilitiesincreased by $61.5 million resulting in a 286% increase in revenue from the prior year. The significant increase in revenues during the year was primarily driven by the strategic acquisitions of Front Line Power Construction, LLC, Gibson Technical Services, IMMCO, Inc., and Full Moon Telecom, LLC made coupled with organic growth within Orbital Power Services. In addition, two large utility scale solar projects were awarded to Orbital Solar Systems during the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2019.2021. We anticipate, based on currently proposed plans and assumptions relating to our operations, the Company to generate sufficient revenue growth required to achieve profitability and generate positive cash flows from operations over the next twelve months. No assurance can be made that we will be able to obtain profitability and positive cash flows from our continuing operations.

 

The Company plans to meet its obligations as they become due over the next twelve months by raising additional capital through equity and debt financing sources and expected positive cash flows generated from operations. Given the considerations, we believe the mitigating effect of management’s plans has alleviated any substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern.

Cash used in Operations

There was a use of cash from operations of approximately $11.5$45.7 million during the year ended December 31, 2019.2021 compared to a $15.0 million use of cash in 2020. This was a decrease froman increase in the use of cash from operations of approximately $12.3$30.7 million and an increase from approximately $9.4 million for the yearsyear ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.2020. Overall, the change in cash used in operations is primarily the result of the loss from continuing operations, net of income taxes in 2019 before non-cash expenses affected by2021 and changes in assets and liabilities.

 

Cashcash in 2021 are primarily for normal administrative costs, and cash usage in the Electric Power segment primarily related to start-up costs and Renewables primarily related to its loss from operations. While the Company saw an initial cost increase from the Electric Power segment, management expects this segment to become cash flow positive, as the business environment normalizes and it continues to increase service crews deployed. The Company believes that revenue generated by recent Telecommunications and Electric Power acquisitions will improve cash flow from operating activities. The Company believes overall cash used in operations of $11.5 million in 2019 was a $0.8 million decrease in cash used compared to the amount used in operations in 2018. The year ended December 31, 2019 benefited from improved results in the Energy segment, which used $8.3 million of cash in 2019, a decrease from the $11.1 million used in 2018. The Company's discontinued operations included the Company's domestic powerwill improve through revenue growth associated with new customers and electromechanical businesses, which were divested in 2019, resulting in lower cash generated in 2019 compared to 2018, with $2.7 million generated in 2019 compared to $4.5 million in 2018. Cash used in the other category increased to $5.9 million in 2019 compared to $5.7 million in 2018. This increased use of cash by the other category was due primarily to increased merger, and acquisition activity in 2019 compared to 2018 culminating in the divestiture of the domestic power and electromechanical business in two separate transactions.larger projects. 

 

During 2019,2021, in addition to the Company's net loss after non-cash items, significant factors affecting cash used in operating activities included the change in trade accounts receivable, accrued liabilities, and accruedchanges in contract liabilities. The change in trade accounts receivable accounted for $1.5a $19.2 million sourceuse of cash in operating activities and was due to lower overall fourth quarter revenuesincreased trades account receivable balances from the Electric Power and Renewables segments. Accrued expenses and Accrued Compensation increased by $4.5 million primarily related to increased accrued compensation expense in the Energy segment compared2021 related to the revenuestiming of payroll expense along with increased accrued expenses at the corporate level for interest payable on outstanding debt. Change in the fourth quarter of 2018. Increased cashcontract liabilities was a source of $2.2 million from change in accrued liabilities wascash due to a non-cash severance accrual recorded at CUI-Canadaincreased billings in preparation for closing that facility in late 2020. Refund liabilities were a $1.3 million useexcess of cash as customers looked to utilize their refunds prior toat the divesture of the power and electromechanical business. A $14.1 million gain on the sale of the company's domestic power and electromechanical businesses and a $2.6 million deferred tax gain were non-cash income statement items that did not affect cash from operations.Renewables segment.

 

We believe cash used in operating activities will improve inDuring 2020, primarily due to the expected continued improvement in revenue from other integration related systems including biomethane to grid solutions and new product and service opportunities currently being pursued. We believe the cash usage rate in the other category will be flat to slightly higher due to continued merger and acquisition activity expected in 2020.

For the 2018 year, in addition to the Company's net loss after non-cash items, significant factors affecting cash used in operating activities included the change in tradeaccrued liabilities, accounts receivablepayable and inventories. The changechanges in trade accounts receivable accounted for $3.8 millioncontract liabilities. A use of cash usedof $1.2 million in operating activities and was due to higher fourth quarter revenues in the Energy segment and discontinued operations comparedaccrued liabilities related largely to the revenuespayout of severance at CUI Canada that was accrued for in the fourth quarter of 2017. Increased cash usage of $2.2 million from change in inventories were due to a build-up of inventories in our discontinued power and electromechanical business due to longer lead times for these products and timing related to customer order and delivery schedules, partially offset by positive changes to inventories in the Energy segment. Also contributing to the increased cash usage was a decrease in contract liabilities of $2.3 million. The increased cash usage was partially offset by a combined $3.4 million of cash provided by changes2019. Change in accounts payable, accrued expenses and refund liabilities.

The cash from operations in 2017which was negatively affected by larger net loss attributable to the Energy segment compared to 2016 and the timing of accounts receivable collections and accounts payable payments in both the Energy segment and discontinued operations.

During 2017, in addition to the change in trade accounts receivable and accounts payable, significant factors that impacted the cash used in operations included cash used for inventory purchases of approximately $0.4 million associated with timing of customer orders and ongoing projects, $0.5 million related to the change in deposits and other assets due to the increase in long-term prepaid royalties at Orbital-UK, $0.5$3.5 million use of cash, related to changes in accrued expenses primarilywas largely due to a changethe paydown of accounts payable at the Renewables segment, which was acquired on April 1, 2020. Accounts payable paid down did not get replaced at the same rate due to decreased business activity at the Renewables segment due to the COVID-19 pandemic and timing of customer projects.  Change in accrued compensation in the Energy segment and a $0.4 million use of cash from changes in prepaid assets that affected the Energy segment, discontinued operations and the other category. Changes in the combined contract assets and contract liabilities werewas a combined approximate $2.8 million source of cash due to increased billings in excess of cash at the period related to billings on projects in the EnergyRenewables segment and increases in deferred revenue from distributor activity within discontinued operations.

On a segment basis, in 2017, the discontinued Power and Electromechanical businesses contributed cash from operations of approximately $3.9 million while the Energy segment used cash of approximately $8.4 million and the Other category used cash of approximately $4.9 million. The Energy segment was hamperedpartially offset by the continued costs of building brand awarenessdecrease in North America and a regulatory issue in Italy unrelated toprovision for loss contracts at the technology that delayedRenewables segment as the next phase of a significant GasPT project.estimated contract losses recorded on the acquisition date were realized as vendors were paid.

 

 

During 2019, 20182021 and 2017,2020, the Company used stock and options as a form of payment to certain vendors, consultants, directors and employees. For years ended December 31, 2019, 20182021 and 2017,2020, the Company recorded a total of $0.2 million, $0.2$12.2 million and $0.4$0.3 million, respectively for share-based compensation related to equity given, or to be given, to employees, directors and consultants for services provided and as payment for royalties earned. The decreasesincrease in 20192021 compared to 2018 and in 2018 compared to 2017 were2020 was due to lowergreater stock-based bonuses, and lowergreater stock-based services.director compensation. In addition, there was a fair value adjustment to stock appreciation rights of $2.1 million in 2021 compared to a fair value adjustment of $0.6 million in 2020. Stock appreciate rights were exchanged for restricted stock units in the first quarter of 2022. There werewas no stock option vesting expense in 2019, 2018,2021 or 2017.2020.

 

Proceeds from Sale of Businesses, Proceeds from Sale of Building, Capital Expenditures and Investments

In 2019,2021, the Company sold its domestic power and electromechanical businesses in two separate transactionspaid $132.5 million cash for total proceedsacquisitions, net of $35.4 million.

In December 2018, the Company completed the sale and leaseback of its Tualatin headquarters. The sale for $8.1 million generated net cash proceeds of $4.2 million after transaction related expenses and after paying off the mortgage on the building and related interest rate swap derivative.received. 

 

During the years ended 2019, 20182021 and 2017, CUI Global2020, Orbital Energy Group invested $0.3 million, $1.0$7.8 million and $0.9$1.7 million, respectively, in fixed assets. These investments typically include additions to equipment including vehicles and equipment for powerline service and maintenance, telecommunications service and maintenance, engineering and research and development, tooling for manufacturing, furniture, computer equipment for office personnel, facilities improvements and other fixed assets as needed for operations. The increase in 2021 was due to the start-up costs associated with the Company's Electric Power segment along with increased equipment at the Telecommunications segment. The Company anticipates further investment in fixed assets during 20202022 in support of its on-going business and continued development of product lines, technologies and services.

 

CUI GlobalOrbital Energy Group invested $0.4 million, $0.5$0.7 million and $0.6 million$11 thousand in other intangible assets during 2019, 20182021 and 2017,2020, respectively. These investments typically include product certifications, technology rights, capitalized website development, software for engineering and research and development and software upgrades for office personnel. InvestmentsThe increase in 2019, 2018 and 2017 primarily related to product certificationscash paid for investments in the current year primarily relates to VE Technology purchased by Orbital Gas Systems North America, now classified as discontinued Power and Electromechanical businesses and investmentsoperations.

In 2021, the Company entered into finance lease agreements that required payment of deposits. Per the agreement, these deposits should be returned 36 months after the lease commences. During 2021 the Company paid $0.8 million on finance lease deposits compared to zero in software in the Energy segment. In the short-term, investments in other intangibles are expected to be down due to the divestiture of the domestic power and electromechanical businesses. The Company expects to continue to invest in software and technology throughout 2020.

 

During 2019, CUI Global made cashIn 2021 the Company recognized proceeds from notes receivable of $0.6 million compared to zero in 2020. Cash used in purchase of short-term investments of $2.1$1.0 million and electedin 2021 compared to convert its $0.7zero in 2020.

The Company made an additional $0.3 million of convertible notes receivable to VPS stock. In addition to the cash investments, the Company contributed certain property and equipment, other intangible assets, inventories, prepaid assets, open purchases orders, research and development expenditures and theinvestment in a convertible note receivable for a total investment of $5.9 million for a 21.4% equity investment infrom Virtual Power Systems ("VPS"). Through December 31, 2019, in 2020 including payments made related to the noncash portion of the investmentCompany's transition agreement with VPS. This note was $3.8 million. The Company's share ownership percentage was diluted to 20.58% as of December 31, 2019 due to additional share issuances by VPS.

During 2018, CUI Global made investments of $0.7 million in convertible notes receivable with Virtual Power Systems (“VPS”) to support the two companies’ continued collaboration and development of Software Defined Power technologies. The notes accrued interest at 2% per annum and the interest was compounded annually. These investments were converted to VPS stock in 2019.

Investments made by the Company are subject to an investment policy, which limits our risk of loss exposure by setting appropriate credit quality requirements for investments held, limiting maturities to be one year or less, and setting appropriate concentration levels to prevent concentrations. This includes a requirement that no more than 3% of the portfolio, or $500,000, whichever is greater, may be invested in one particular issue. Since the investmentequity in VPS was consideredin the third quarter of 2020 along with an additional contribution of $0.5 million and a strategic investment,non-cash contribution of inventory in the board and management reviewed and approved the investment above the board set limit for individual issuers.amount of $0.3 million.

 

 

Financing Activities

During the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018,2021 and 2017,2020, the Company issued payments of $2.0 million and $4 thousand, $3 thousand and $29 thousand, respectively, against capitalfinance leases of motor vehicles and equipment. The Company paid $3.4 million and $89 thousand against the mortgage notehad proceeds from notes payable in 2018 and 2017, respectively, with the payoff coming2021 of $143.0 million, compared to $8.1 million in 2018 as part of the sale-leaseback of the Company's headquarters building. In addition, with the payoff of the mortgage2020. See Note 7, Note payable for more information on the Company's headquarters building, thenotes payable. The Company also closed out its interest rate swap derivative with a paymentmade payments on notes payable of $0.2 million. Also$9.9 million in 20182021 and 2017, the Company issued payments of $45 thousand, and $61 thousand, respectively, toward the contingent liability associated with the Tectrol acquisition.$4.1 million in 2020. 

 

On August 19, 2021, the Company's Telecommunications segment entered into a $4.0 million variable rate line of credit agreement. Interest accrues at a rate of 2.05% over the Daily Simple Secured Overnight Financing Rate ("SOFR") index rate. At December 31, 2018,2021 the Company had a 1.5 million British pound sterling overdraft facility (approximately $1.9 million at December 31, 2018) and a $5.0 million revolvingan outstanding balance on the line of credit (LOC).

During April 2019, CUI Global replacedof $2.5 million and $1.5 million was available for borrowing. In 2020, the existing$0.4 million line of credit and overdraft facilities with a new two-year credit facility with Bank of America for CUI Inc. and CUI-Canada, perfected by a first security lien on all assets of CUI Inc. and CUI-Canada.balance was held at the Renewables segment. The facility also included a $3 million sub-limit for use by CUI-Global non-loan party subsidiaries as a reserve under the borrowing base. The credit facility provided for working capital and general corporate purposes. The credit facility provided up to $10,000,000 in a Revolving Line of Credit Facility (“Revolver”), including a sub-limit for letters of credit. Interest was based upon Daily Floating LIBOR at LIBOR + 2.00%. The Company discontinued thisRenewable segment line of credit was paid and closed in 2019 upon the salefirst quarter of the domestic power and electromechanical businesses. The additional credit was no longer needed due to the cash influx from the sale of the businesses, and the sold businesses were a primary source of collateral for the line of credit.2021.

 

For the year ended December 31, 2019, 2018,S-3 registration and 2017, the Company recorded proceeds of $6.8 million, $19.5 million, and $9.8 million, respectively, from the Company's overdraft facility in the U.K., and $27.5 million, $20.0 million, and $22.3 million respectively, from the Company's line of credit. Those proceeds were paid back during that time and in 2019 both facilities were discontinued.

S-3 registrationshare issuances

The Company filed an S-3 registration statement on March 14, 2017July 17, 2020 containing a prospectus that was effective March 29, 2017.in September 2020. The Company utilized this filing in January 2021 to issue common stock for $45 million before costs. The Company filed a new S-3 shelf registration in January 2021, which, as amended, became effective in April 2021. With this filing, CUI GlobalOrbital Energy Group may from time to timetime-to-time issue various types of securities, including common stock, preferred stock, debt securities and/or warrants, up to an aggregate amount of $100$150 million.

The Company utilized this S-3 registration to issue additional common stock in October 2017, when the Company issued an additional 7,392,856 shares at a public offering priceJuly 2021 for $38 million before costs of $2.80 per share.approximately $2.3 million for net proceeds of approximately $35.7 million. 

 

As the Company focuses on growing its infrastructure services market presence both organically and through strategic acquisitions, technology development, product and service line additions, and increasing its energy infrastructure servicesOrbital’s market presence, it will fund these activities together with related operating, sales and marketing efforts for its various product offerings with cash on hand, includingand possible proceeds from future issuances of equity through the S-3 registration statement, and available debt.

 

CUI GlobalOrbital Energy Group may raise additional capital needed to fund the further development and marketing of its products and services as well as payment of its debt obligations.

 

See the section entitled Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities for a complete listing of all unregistered securities transactions.

 

Financing activities – related party activity

During 2019, 2018 and 2017, $0.2 million, $0.3 million, and $0.3 million, respectively in interest payments were made in relation to the promissory notes issued to related party, IED, Inc. The promissory note terms included a due date of May 15, 2020 and an interest rate of 5% per annum, with interest payable monthly and the principal due as a balloon payment at maturity. In 2019, this note was assumed by the buyer as part of the sale of the Electromechanical operations.

 

Recap of Liquidity and Capital Resources

During the year ended December 31, 2019, theThe Company generated $35.4had a net loss of $61.2 million in cash through the sale of its domestic power and electromechanical businesses. In 2019, the Company's Energy segment continued to use cash while the Company's discontinued operations generated cash while owned by the Company. Along with an ongoing focus on research and development and growth initiatives, cash usage was greater than what it will be when the Energy businesses are fully mature. The net cash used in operating activities decreasedof $45.7 million during 2021. As of December 31, 2021, the Company's accumulated deficit is $210.9 million. The Company has supplemented its liquidity by issuing $45 million of shares of stock in January 2021 and $38 million shares of stock in July 2021. In November 2021, the Company entered into a Credit Agreement with Alter Domus (US), LLC, as administrative agent and collateral agent and various lenders (the “Lenders”) in order to $11.5 million in 2019 from $12.3 million in 2018 with muchenable the Company to finance the acquisition of that dueFront Line Power Construction, LLC (“Front Line”) (the “Acquisition”). Pursuant to the ongoing effortsCredit Agreement, the Lenders made a Term Loan to growFront Line in the current businesses.

initial principal amount of $105 million for the purposes of financing the Acquisition and the associated expenses. The Company's lineTerm Loan initially bears interest at the three-month Adjusted LIBOR Rate, plus the Applicable Margin, of creditwhich 2.5% may be paid in-kind. The Term Loan shall be repaid in consecutive quarterly installments of $262,500, commencing on June 30, 2022. The Credit Agreement provides for mandatory prepayments on the occurrence of events such as sales of assets, Consolidated Excess Cash Flow and overdraft facility were paid offExcess Receipts during the term. The Credit Agreement provides for prepayment premiums (initially 5% on prepayments made in 2019 and were made unnecessary by the cash generated from the salefirst 30 months of the Company's domestic powerterm, declining to 1% in the final year of the term). The Term Loan matures on November 17, 2026, subject to acceleration on Events of Default. Additionally, the Company issued two, unsecured promissory notes to the sellers of Front Line in the aggregate principle amount outstanding of $86.7 million with a maturity date of May 17, 2022 and electromechanical businesses.an interest rate of 6% per annum. The seller notes were amended in the first quarter of 2022 so that $35 million will be due in 2022 and the remaining portion of the seller notes will be due May 31, 2023.

 

At December 31, 2019,2021, and 2020 the Company had cash and cash equivalents balances of $23.4$26.9 million and $3.0 million. At December 31, 20192021 and 2018,2020, the Company had $1.0$2.3 million and $0.3$0.6 million, respectively, of cash and cash equivalents balances at domestic financial institutions, which were covered under the FDIC insured deposits programs and $0.3$0.4 million and $67 thousand,$0.2 million, respectively, of cash and cash equivalents covered at foreign financial institutions covered under the United Kingdom Financial Services Compensation (FSC) and the Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation (CDIC).institutions. At December 31, 20192021 and 2018,2020, the Company held $0.2$2.1 million and $0.3$2.2 million, respectively, in Japanese foreign bank accounts, $0.6 million and $0, respectively, in European foreign bank accounts and $0.2 million and $67 thousand, respectively, in Canadian bank accounts.

 

The following tables present our contractual obligations as of December 31, 2019:2021:

  

Payments due by period

 
  

Less than

                 

(In thousands)

 

1 year

  

1 to 3 years

  

3 to 5 years

  

After 5 years

  

Total

 

Financing lease obligations:

                    

Minimum lease payments

 $5,729  $9,980  $576  $  $16,285 
                     

Operating lease obligations:

                    

Operating lease - minimum payments

  5,767   8,789   4,093   2,714   21,363 
                     

Notes payable obligations:

                    

Notes payable maturities plus interest

  97,659   92,077   130,053      319,789 

Total Obligations

 $109,155  $110,846  $134,722  $2,714  $357,437 

 

  

Payments due by period

 

(In thousands)

 

Less than

1 year

  

1 to 3 years

  

3 to 5 years

  

After 5 years

  

Total

 

Financing lease obligations:

                    

Minimum lease payments

 $4  $1  $  $  $5 
                     

Operating lease obligations:

                    

Operating leases

  1,173   2,137   1,235   2,688   7,233 
                     

Notes payable obligations:

                    

Notes payable maturities

  473            473 

Total Obligations

 $1,650  $2,138  $1,235  $2,688  $8,076 

The above notes payable maturities reflects the agreement made with the Front Line sellers to extend the maturity date for those agreements from May 16, 2022 to May 31, 2023, with $35 million being due in 2022 and the remaining principal due in 2023. 

 

As of December 31, 2019,2021, the Company had an accumulated deficit of $122.2$210.9 million.

 

The Company expects the revenues from its continuing operations and cash on hand, to cover operating and other expenses for the next twelve months of operations. However, in the short-term, the Company expects its Orbital operations in Houston and the U.K. to continueoperating units to need cash support as the businesses increaseCompany acquires fixed assets to grow their market positions and revenue.businesses. Further equity issuance or borrowing may be required to fund future acquisitions.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements - Obligations under Certain Guarantee Contracts

The Company may enter into guarantee arrangements in the normal course of business to facilitate commercial transactions with third parties. As of December 31, 2019,2021, the Company is an indemnitor on four surety bonds and had three letters of credit off-balance sheet for a surety bondtotal dollar value of approximately $131.8 million. Two bonds were with the Renewables segment for an unconsolidated third partya total of $127.0 million dollars for two construction projects. At the Electric Power segment there were two bonds totaling $3.8 million for various unit-based construction jobs. For the projects related to these bonds, bonds, there was $110.7 million in costs left to complete the projects at December 31, 2021. The Company held three off-balance sheet letters of credit as of December 31, 2021. The Telecommunications segment had a $4.6letter of credit for $0.4 million, project that is approximately 90% completeDiscontinued UK operations for $54 thousand and expected to be completed in 2020.Renewables for $0.6 million. The Company does not expect any liability associated with thisthese off-balance sheet arrangement.arrangements.

 

 

ResultsResults of Operations

The following tables set forth, for the periods indicated, certain financial information regarding revenueRevenue and costsincome (loss) from operations by segment:

 

(Dollars in thousands)

 

For the Year Ended December 31, 2019

 
  

Energy

  

Percent of
Segment
Revenues

  

Other

  

Percent
of
Segment
Revenues

  

Total

  

Percent of
Total
Revenues

 

Total revenues

 $23,492   100.0

%

 $   

%

 $23,492   100.0

%

Cost of revenues

  17,680   75.3

%

     

%

  17,680   75.3

%

Gross profit

  5,812   24.7

%

     

%

  5,812   24.7

%

Operating expenses:

                        

Selling, general and administrative expense

  12,657   53.9

%

  7,406   

%

  20,063   85.4

%

Depreciation and amortization

  1,520   6.5

%

  24   

%

  1,544   6.6

%

Research and development

  139   0.6

%

     

%

  139   0.6

%

Provision for bad debt

  131   0.5

%

     

%

  131   0.5

%

Other operating income

  (20

)

  (0.1

)%

     

%

  (20

)

  (0.1

)%

Total operating expenses

  14,427   61.4

%

  7,430   

%

  21,857   93.0

%

Loss from operations

 $(8,615

)

  (36.7

)%

 $(7,430

)

  

%

 $(16,045

)

  (68.3

)%

 

                     

(Dollars in thousands)

  For the Year Ended December 31, 2021                 
  

Telecommunications

  

Electric Power

  

Renewables

  

Other

  

Total

 

Total Revenues

 $27,799  $43,599  $11,550  $  $82,948 

Income (Loss) from operations

 $43  $(13,215) $(19,043) $(20,576) $(52,791)


 

                     

(Dollars in thousands)

  For the Year Ended December 31, 2020             
  

Telecommunications

  

Electric Power

  

Renewables

  

Other

  

Total

 

Total Revenues

 $  $8,482  $13,005  $  $21,487 

Loss from operations

 $  $(4,942) $(5,479) $(11,610) $(22,031)

 

(Dollars in thousands)

 

For the Year Ended December 31, 2018

 
  

Energy

  

Percent of
Segment
Revenues

  

Other

  

Percent
of
Segment
Revenues

  

Total

  

Percent of
Total
Revenues

 

Total revenues

 $20,342   100.0

%

 $   

%

 $20,342   100.0

%

Cost of revenues

  17,783   87.4

%

     

%

  17,783   87.4

%

Gross profit

  2,559   12.6

%

     

%

  2,559   12.6

%

Operating expenses:

                        

Selling, general and administrative expense

  13,687   67.3

%

  4,942   

%

  18,629   91.6

%

Depreciation and amortization

  1,525   7.5

%

  24   

%

  1,549   7.6

%

Research and development

  155   0.7

%

     

%

  155   0.7

%

Provision (credit) for bad debt

  13   0.1

%

     

%

  13   0.1

%

Impairment of goodwill and intangible assets

  4,347   21.4

%

     

%

  4,347   21.4

%

Total operating expenses

  19,727   97.0

%

  4,966   

%

  24,693   121.4

%

Loss from operations

 $(17,168

)

  (84.4

)%

 $(4,966

)

  

%

 $(22,134

)

  (108.8

)%

(Dollars in thousands)

 

For the Year Ended December 31, 2017

 
  

Energy

  

Percent of
Segment
Revenues

  

Other

  

Percent
of
Segment
Revenues

  

Total

  

Percent of
Total
Revenues

 

Total revenues

 $18,843   100.0

%

 $   

%

 $18,843   100.0

%

Cost of revenues

  12,913   68.5

%

     

%

  12,913   68.5

%

Gross profit

  5,930   31.5

%

     

%

  5,930   31.5

%

Operating expenses:

                        

Selling, general and administrative expense

  12,588   66.8

%

  4,918   

%

  17,506   92.9

%

Depreciation and amortization

  1,345   7.2

%

  21   

%

  1,366   7.3

%

Research and development

  222   1.2

%

     

%

  222   1.2

%

Provision for bad debt

  (16

)

  (0.1

)%

     

%

  (16

)

  (0.1

)%

Impairment of goodwill and intangible assets

  3,152   16.7

%

     

%

  3,152   21.4

%

Other operating expenses

  5   

%

     

%

  5   16.7

%

Total operating expenses

  17,296   91.8

%

  4,939   

%

  22,235   

%

Loss from operations

 $(11,366

)

  (60.3

)%

 $(4,939

)

  

%

 $(16,305

)

  1.2

%

 

 

Revenue

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

  

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

Revenues by Segment

     

Percent

      

Percent

        

Percent

   

(Dollars in thousands)

 

2019

  

Change

  

2018

  

Change

  

2017

  

2021

  

Change

  

2020

 

Energy

 $23,492   15.5

%

 $20,342   8.0

%

 $18,843 

Other

     

%

     

%

   

Telecommunications

 $27,799  100.0% $ 

Electric Power

  43,599  414.0%  8,482 

Renewables

  11,550  (11.2)%  13,005 

Total revenues

 $23,492   15.5

%

 $20,342   8.0

%

 $18,843  $82,948  286.0% $21,487 

20192021 compared to 20182020

Revenues in 20192021 are attributable to newly acquired entities, continued sales, and marketing efforts. Net revenues for the year ended December 31, 20192021 were greater than in 20182020 due to higher integration revenuesthe acquisitions in the Telecommunications and Electric Power segments and the development of the Company's North America operationsElectric Power business. This increase was partially offset by lower integration revenues in the Company's U.K. operations. North American operations had significantly higher overall revenues than in 2018 after a strong fourth quarter. U.K. operations were down overall for the year and had a weak fourth quarter with the continued delay in shipment of GasPTs toward a significant project in Italy. The U.K. market continues to face headwinds surrounding Brexit and the impact of the political environment on investment within the sector.renewables revenue at Orbital Solar Services during 2021. Revenues will fluctuate generally around the timing of customer project delivery schedules.

 

At December 31, 2019, the EnergyThe Electric Power segment held a backlogbacklogs of customer orders of approximately $9.6$207.7 million compared to approximately $15.7as of December 31, 2021 and $22.2 million at December 31, 2018.

2018 compared to 2017

Higher revenue in 2018 is associated with a strong fourth quarter for revenues due to the timing of customer project delivery schedules. Revenue was higher in both our UK and Houston facilities.

At December 31, 2018, the Energy2020. The Renewables segment held a backlogbacklogs of customer orders of approximately $15.7$121.4 million as of December 31, compared to $8.1 million as of December 31, 2020. Telecommunications, had backlogs of customer orders of approximately $194.5 million compared to approximately $12.6 million atzero as of December 31, 2017.2020.

 

Cost of Revenues

 

  

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

Cost of Revenues by Segment

     

Percent

      

Percent

     

(Dollars in thousands)

 

2019

  

Change

  

2018

  

Change

  

2017

 

Energy

 $17,680   (0.6

)%

 $17,783   37.7

%

 $12,913 

Other

     

%

     

%

   

Total cost of revenues

 $17,680   (0.6

)%

 $17,783   37.7

%

 $12,913 

20192021 compared to 20182020

The cost of revenues as a percentage of revenue decreased to 75% duringFor the year ended December 31, 2019 from 87% during2021, the year ended December 31, 2018. The decrease in the cost of revenues as a percentage of revenue was due largely to a 2018 increase to inventory reserves of $1.4 million related to a write-down of inventory and a 2018 $1.5 million write down of long-term deposits and other assets that were prepaid within the Energy segment. Both of these accounting adjustments increased the cost of sales as a percent of revenues in 2018. The Company expects improved cost of revenues as a percentage of revenues in 2020 as a result of increased sales of higher margin products and better mix of integration and service projects.

2018 compared to 2017

The cost of revenues as a percentage of revenue increased to 87%94.8% from 91.1% during 2020. This increase was attributable to start-up costs at the Company’s Electric Power segment and lower margin projects during the period for Orbital Solar Services. Margins will vary based upon the mix of work provided, proprietary technology included in projects, contract labor necessary to complete projects, and the competitive markets in which the Company competes. The year ended December 31, 20182021 was also affected negatively by the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting world-wide economic slowdown.

The Company expects continued improvement in 2022 with the addition of the newly acquired companies Gibson Technical Services, IMMCO, Inc., Full Moon Telecom, LLC, and Front Line Power Construction, LLC. These acquired entities have been profitable from 69% duringacquisition. With the year ended December 31, 2017. Theaddition of these entities, the Company expects synergies that will promote efficiencies and increase revenue in the cost of revenues as a percentage of revenue was due largelyyears to ancome. Additionally, two large solar projects are scheduled to ramp up in 2022 and increase to inventory reserves of $1.4 million related to a write-down of inventory and a $1.5 million write down of long-term deposits and other assets that were prepaid within the Energy segment in 2018. Also contributing to the higher percentage was a less favorable revenue mix of integration projects in 2018.

revenue.

 

Selling, General and Administrative Expense

  

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

Selling, General, and Administrative Expense by Segment

     

Percent

      

Percent

     

(Dollars in thousands)

 

2019

  

Change

  

2018

  

Change

  

2017

 

Energy

 $12,657   (7.5

)%

 $13,687   8.7

%

 $12,588 

Other

  7,406   49.9

%

  4,942   0.5

%

  4,918 

Total selling, general and administrative expense

 $20,063   6.0

%

 $18,629   6.4

%

 $17,506 

 

Selling, General and Administrative (SG&A) expenses includes such items as wages, commissions, consulting, general office expenses, business promotion expenses and costs of being a public company including legal and accounting fees, insurance and investor relations. SG&A expenses are generally associated with the ongoing activities to reach new customers, promote new product lines including GasPT, VE,Telecommunications, Electric Power, and Renewables segments and other new product and service introductions.

20192021 compared to 20182020

During the year ended December 31, 2019,2021, SG&A increased $1.4$31.0 million compared to the year ended December 31, 2018.2020. The increase in SG&A for the year2021 compared to 2020 was due to the addition of entities in our Telecommunications and Electric Power segments. Additionally, the Electric Power segment experienced increased start-up SG&A costs around increased payroll and insurance expense. Also contributing to SG&A were increased corporate costs largely due to strategic initiatives, which included increased professional fees including legal, accounting, tax, investor relations, and costs associated with due diligence activities related to prospective acquisitions. Partially offsetting the increased SG&A costs in the Other category were decreased costs in the Energy segment primarily due to improved operating costs including lower professional fees in 2019 and lower translated costs at our U.K. operations due to generally lower foreign exchange rates and higher costs in the 2018 comparable period from increased marketing expenses related to the 2018 World Gas Conference.

 

SG&A decreased to 85%60.3% of total revenue in 20192021 compared to 92%88.6% of total revenue during the year ended December 31, 20182020 due to economies of scale on 16%286.0% higher consolidated revenues.

 

2018 compared to 2017

During the year ended December 31, 2018, SG&A increased $1.1 million compared to the year ended December 31, 2017. The increase for the year is due to increased costs in the Energy segment primarily due to higher selling expenses on the higher sales within the segment, higher professional fees in the Energy segment and higher SG&A expenses at the new Houston facility. Also contributing to the higher SG&A expenses in the Energy segment in 2018 were increased marketing expenses related to the World Gas Conference. SG&A decreased slightly to 92% of total revenue in 2018 compared to 93% of total revenue during the year ended December 31, 2017 due to economies of scale on 8% higher consolidated revenues.

Depreciation and Amortization

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

  

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

Depreciation and Amortization by Segment

     

Percent

      

Percent

        

Percent

   

(Dollars in thousands)

 

2019

  

Change

  

2018

  

Change

  

2017

  

2021

  

Change

  

2020

 

Energy

 $1,520   (0.3

)%

 $1,525   13.4

%

 $1,345 

Telecommunications

 $2,326  100.0% $ 

Electric Power

  5,969  1278.5%  433 

Renewables

 2,931 (10.6)% 3,278 

Other

  841   (43.2

)%

  1,480   (1.7

)%

  1,505   1,684  10.1%  1,530 

Total depreciation and amortization (1)

 $2,361   (21.4

)%

 $3,005   5.4

%

 $2,850  $12,910  146.3% $5,241 

 

(1) The Other category includedFor the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, depreciation and amortization totals included $1.6 million and $1.5 million, respectively that were classified in income from discontinued operations on the Consolidated Statements of discontinued operations.Operations in the Other segment. For the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, depreciation and amortization totals included $4.5 million and $0.5 million, respectively that were classified as cost of revenues in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.

 

The depreciation and amortization expenses are associated with depreciating buildings, furniture, vehicles, equipment, software and other intangible assets over the estimated useful lives of the related assets.

 

 

20192021 compared to 20182020

Depreciation and amortization decreased for the year ended December 31, 2019 compared to the comparable period in 2018. The majority of the decrease was in the Other category primarily as a result of the Company's sale and leaseback of the Tualatin facility in December 2018 and the transfer of certain fixed assets as part of the VPS equity-method investment. Depreciation included in the Other category is primarily related to the Company's discontinued operations.

2018 compared to 2017

Depreciation and amortization increased slightly for the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to the comparable period in 2017.  The increase was a result of an increase in the Energy segment due to generally increased foreign currency translation rates in 2018 compared to 2017 and increased software amortization due to Orbital's new ERP system going into service in 2018.

Research and Development

  

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

Research and Development by Segment

     

Percent

      

Percent

     

(Dollars in thousands)

 

2019

  

Change

  

2018

  

Change

  

2017

 

Energy

 $139   (10.3

)%

 $155   (30.2

)%

 $222 

Other

     

%

     

%

   

Total research and development

 $139   (10.3

)%

 $155   (30.2

)%

 $222 

Research and development costs are associated with the continued research and development of new and existing technologies including GasPT and VE Technology and other products. Research and development expense was down in the Energy segment for both the year ended December 31, 2019 compared to the year ended December 31, 2018 and in the year ended December 31, 20182021 was up compared to 2017. Research2020 primarily due to the amortization of Telecommunications and development activities primarily focused on GasPTElectric Power segment acquisition intangibles and VE technologies.

Impairment Loss

In 2018, management calculated an excess carrying amount for its Orbital-UK goodwill resulting in the remaining goodwill at Orbital-UK being written off, which was a totaldepreciation of $4.3 million impairment for the year. As of December 31, 2017, management calculated an excess carrying amount for its Orbital-UK goodwill resulting in a $3.2 million impairment. See Note 2 Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Indefinite-Lived Intangiblesequipment used by Telecommunications and Goodwill Assets for information on the impairment to goodwill in 2018 and 2017.Electric Power segments.

 

Provision (Credit) for Bad Debt

  

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

Provision for (Credit to) Bad Debt by Segment

     

Percent

      

Percent

     

(Dollars in thousands)

 

2019

  

Change

  

2018

  

Change

  

2017

 

Energy

 $131   907.7

%

 $13   (181.3

)%

 $(16

)

Other

     

%

     

%

   

Total provision for (credit to) bad debt

 $131   907.7

%

 $13   (181.3

)%

 $(16

)

Provision for (credit to) bad debt in 2019, 2018 and 2017 represents2021 represented less than 1% of total revenues and relatesrelated to miscellaneous receivables, which the Company hashad either recorded an allowance for doubtful collections of the receivable or for which the Company hashad determined the balance to be uncollectible. Credits to theThe provision for bad debt are generated when aged receivables are collected at a higher rate than was previously reserved, which resultsdecreased in 2021 compared to 2020 as the calculated reserve being reduced.2020 provision for bad debt primarily related to accounts receivable write-offs on the Renewable segment's customer balances that were deemed to be uncollectible.

 

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

 
 

For the Years Ended December 31,

    

Percent

   

(Dollars in thousands)

 

2019

  

Percent

Change

  

2018

  

Percent

Change

  

2017

  

2021

  

Change

  

2020

 

Foreign exchange gain (loss)

 $430   (189.4

)%

 $(481

)

  (406.4

)%

 $157  $(500) (198.6)% $507 

Interest income

  82   382.4

%

  17   (5.6

)%

  18  338 15.4% 293 

Non-cash gain and unrealized gain on derivative liability

     (100.0

)%

  129   16.2

%

  111 

Sublet rental income

 501 50.9% 332 

Financial instrument income (expense)

 33 (100.0)%  

Gain (loss) on extinguishment of debt and loan modifications

 365  337.0% (154)

Other, net

  55   189.5

%

  19   (20.8

)%

  24   40  900.0%  4 

Total other income (expense)

 $567   (2.8

)%

 $(316

)

  (2.0

)%

 $310  $777  (20.9)% $982 

 

Fluctuations in Other Income (Expense) are largely due to fluctuations in foreign currency rates. Foreign currency gains and losses are primarily related to intercompany receivables/payables between CUI GlobalOrbital Energy Group and its U.K Orbital Gas Systems subsidiary. Additionally, increased gain on extinguishment of debt primarily relates to the forgiveness by the U.S. government of certain payroll protection loans partially offset by the loss on extinguishment of debt related to exchange of common stock for debt payments. The derivative liability was an interest rate derivativeincrease in financial instrument income relates to a standalone financial instrument included in the subscription agreement related to the Company's mortgage interest rate and was settled$105 million credit agreement utilized in 2018 as partthe funding of the Company's sale leaseback transaction for it's headquarters building. Theacquisition of Front Line Power Construction, LLC. This financial instrument is discussed further in Note 7. Increased sublet rental income is due to an increase in interest income is primarilythe square footage subleased in 2021 related to the related-party note receivable the Company holds, which was received as part of the Company's sale of its electromechanical businessCompany’s previous corporate office in 2019.Oregon.  

 

Investment Income

DuringPrior to the three months ended March 31, 2016, CUI Global's investmentthird quarter of 2020, based on its equity ownership and that the Company maintained a board seat and participated in Test Products International, Inc. ("TPI"), was exchanged for a note receivable from TPIoperational activities of $0.4 million, which was the carrying value of the investment, earning interest at 5% per annum, through maturity. The Company recorded interest income on the note of $8 thousand, $17 thousand and $18 thousand for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively. The interest receivable was settled on a quarterly basis via a non-cash offset against the finders-fee royalties earned by TPI on GasPT sales. Any remaining finders-fee royalties balance was offset against the note receivable quarterly. The Company received full payment on the note during 2019.

During 2018, CUI Global made investments of $0.7 million in convertible notes receivable with Virtual Power Systems (“VPS”("VPS") to support the two companies’ continued collaboration and development of industry transforming Software Defined Power technologies. The notes accrued interest at 2% per annum and the interest was to compound annually. Unless converted into shares earlier, principal and accrued interest was to convert automatically on the maturity date (October 27, 2019) into shares of VPS common stock at the then current fair market value.

On March 30, 2019,, the Company converted its $0.7 million in notes receivable into preferred stock of VPS. In addition, the Company contributed $0.3 million of cash and $2.5 million of other assets, as well as $1.8 million of future expenditures recorded as liabilities by the Company, of which $1.7 million were paid in 2019. In return, the Company acquired a 21.4% ownership share of VPS. During the three months ended June 30, 2019, the Company recorded a $0.6 million gain based on the fair value of the non-cash assets contributed as part ofmaintained significant influence to account for the investment in VPS, which is included in discontinued operations. As of December 31, 2019, the Company's ownership percentage has been reduced to 20.58% following VPS's issuance of additional equity. Based on current accounting guidance, the Company will record its share of VPS's income or loss under the equity method of accounting.as an equity-method investment. Under the equity method of accounting, results willare not be consolidated, but the Company will recordrecords a proportionate percentage of the profit or loss of VPS as an addition to or a subtraction from the VPS investment asset.asset balance. With the decrease in ownership percentage following a Q3 2020 equity raise by VPS and additional board seats placed, Orbital Energy Group, Inc. no longer has significant influence to recognize the investment under the equity method. As such, the Company held the investment under the cost method as of December 31 2020 resulting in a $4.8 million loss on its equity-method investment in the six months ended June 30, 2020. The VPS investment basiscontinues to be held under the cost method and at December 31, 20192021 and December 31, 2020, the Company’s basis in the investment was $4.9$1.1 million as reflected on the consolidated balance sheets.

 

Interest Expense

The Company incurred $61 thousand, $0.2$8.3 million and $0.2$1.3 million of interest expense during 2019, 20182021 and 2017,2020, respectively. Interest expense is for interest on the short-term and long-term notes payable including syndicated debt agreement, seller-financed notes, non-recourse payable agreements, convertible note payable, its secured note,insurance financing notes, secured promissory note, and linelines of credit and overdraft facility.credit. The Company's securedincrease in interest expense in 2021 is related to the increase in notes payable outstanding as of December 31, 2021. See note was repaid in December 2018 as part of7 for more information on the Company's sale-leaseback transaction, and its secured promissory note, line of credit and overdraft facilities were paid off in 2019. At December 31, 2019 the Company was incurring interest only on its short-term note payable for $0.5 million related to certain financed insurance policies.notes payable.

 

 

Provision (benefit) for taxes

The Company is subject to taxation in the U.S., various state and foreign jurisdictions. We continue to record a full valuation allowance against the Company's U.S. and U.K. net deferred tax assets as it is "not more likely than not," that the Company will realize a benefit from these assets in a future period. In future periods, tax benefits and related deferred tax assets will be recognized when management concludes realization of such amounts is "more likely than not."

 

20192021 compared to 20182020

In 2019,2021, a net tax benefit of $3.0$10.5 million, was recorded to the income tax provision from continuing operations for the year ended December 31, 20192021 resulting in an effective tax rate of 17.8%17.4% compared to a $1.3$1.5 million tax benefit from continuing operations for the year ended December 31, 20182020 and an effective tax rate of 5.9%5.3%. For the year ended December 31, 2019,2021, the income tax benefit primarily represents benefits from losses from continuing operations partially offset by foreign tax rates differing from USA tax rates and an increasea decrease in the U.S. valuation allowance.allowance as a result of the GTS acquisition. For the year ended December 31, 2018,2020, the income tax benefit primarily represents benefits from losses from continuing operations partially offset by foreign tax rates differing from USA tax rates, impairment of foreign purchased goodwill and an increasea decrease in the U.S. valuation allowance.allowance as a result of the Reach Construction Group, LLC acquisition. As of December 31, 2019,2021, we have federal, state and foreign net operating loss carry forwards of approximately $37.2$97.3 million, $32.3$21.3 million, and $15.5$16.5 million, respectively, and for which the federal and state net operating loss carry-forwards will expire between 20272026 and 2038.2037.

 

During 2019, the Company provided for a partial valuation allowance against the Company’s Canada net deferred tax assets, which are included in assets held for sale, as it is not “more likely than not,” that the Company will realize a benefit from a portion of these assets in a future period. In future periods, tax benefits and related deferred tax assets will be recognized when management concludes realization of such amounts is "more likely than not."

2018 compared to 2017

During 2018, the Company provided for a full valuation allowance against the Company’s U.K. net deferred tax assets as it was considered not “more likely than not,” that the Company will realize a benefit from these assets in a future period. In 2018, a net benefit of $1.3 million, was recorded to the income tax provision for the year ended December 31, 2018 resulting in an effective tax rate of 5.9% compared to a $2.3 million tax benefit for the year ended December 31, 2017 and an effective tax rate of 13.9%. For the year ended December 31, 2018, the income tax benefit primarily represents benefits from losses from continuing operations partially offset by foreign tax rates differing from USA tax rates, impairment of foreign purchased goodwill and an increase in the valuation allowance. For the year ended December 31, 2017, the income tax benefit primarily represents benefits from losses from continuing operations partially offset by foreign tax rates differing from USA tax rates, impairment of foreign purchased goodwill and an increase in the valuation allowance.

Loss from Continuing Operations, net of income taxes

20192021 compared to 20182020

The Company had a loss from continuing operations, net of income taxes of $13.6$49.8 million for the year ended December 31, 20192021 compared to a loss of $21.3$25.7 million in 2018. The decreased loss from continuing operations, net of income taxes was due to higher sales and greater margins in 2019 compared to 2018, greater tax benefits and lower goodwill and other asset impairments in 2019 compared to 2018.

2018 compared to 2017

The Company had a loss from continuing operations, net of income taxes of $21.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to a loss from continuing operations, net of income taxes of $13.9 million in 2017.2020. The increased loss from continuing operations, net of income taxes was attributable to start-up costs at the Company's Electric Power segment and projects with lower than normal margins during the period for the Renewables segment due to lower marginssupply chain delays caused by COVID-19 leading to inefficiencies. In addition, the Company faced increased administrative costs from acquisition due largely to an increase to inventory reserves of $1.4 million related to a write-down of inventory and a $1.5 million write down of long-term deposits and other assets that were prepaid withindiligence for the Energy segment. Also contributing to the higher percentage was a less favorable revenue mix of integration projectsfour companies acquired in 2018 compared to 2017.2021.

 

 

Income from Discontinued Operations, net of income taxes

20192021 compared to 20182020

The Company had incomeloss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes of $12.5$11.4 million for the year ended December 31, 20192021 compared to $4.0a loss of $1.7 million in 2018.2020. The increase in loss from discontinued operations is primarily due to the gain onimpairment recognized at Orbital UK in 2021 of $9.2 million. As of December 31, 2021, Orbital UK was considered held for sale of businesses for 2019.and their assets were written down to their expected sale price.

 

Consolidated Net Loss

20182021 compared to 2017

The Company had income from discontinued operations, net of income taxes of $4.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to $1.4 million in 2017 due to a slightly more favorable product mix in the Power and Electromechanical businesses on greater volume.

Consolidated Net Loss

2019 compared to 20182020

The Company had a net loss of $1.1$61.2 million for the year ended December 31, 20192021 compared to a net loss of $17.3$27.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2018.2020. The decrease in theincreased consolidated net loss was attributable to start-up costs at the Company's Electric Power segment and projects with lower than normal margins during the period for 2019 was primarilyRenewables segment due to supply chain delays caused by COVID-19 leading to inefficiencies, as well as increased administrative costs from acquisition due diligence for the result of the gain on the sale of the domestic power and electromechanical businesses and lower goodwill and other asset impairments.four companies acquired in 2021.

 

2018 compared to 2017

The Company had a net loss of $17.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to a net loss of $12.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2017. The increase in the consolidated net loss for 2018 was primarily the result of higher goodwill impairments, higher inventory reserves and impairment of deposits and other assets.

Effect of Inflation and Changing Prices

The Company believes, that during fiscal years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, the effect of a hypothetical 100 basis point shift in foreign currency exchange rates applicable to our business would not have had a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

Recently Adopted and Recently Issued Accounting Standards

Information on recently adopted and recently issued accounting standards is included in Note 2 Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Recent Accounting Pronouncements, to the Consolidated Financial Statements under Part II, Item 8, ‘‘Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.’’

 

Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure about Market Risk

 

We are exposed to market risk in the ordinary course of our business. Market risk represents the risk of loss that may impact our financial position due to adverse changes in financial market prices and rates. This market risk exposure is primarily a result of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates. The Company neither holds nor issues financial instruments for trading purposes.

 

The following sections provide quantitative information on the Company’s exposure to foreign currency exchange rate risk and stock price risk. The Company makes use of sensitivity analyses that are inherently limited in estimating actual losses in fair value that can occur from changes in market conditions.

 

Foreign Currency Exchange Rates

The Company conducts continuing operations in twoone principal currencies:currency: the U.S. dollar, and the British pound sterling. These currencies operate primarilydollar. This currency operates as the functional currency for the Company’s U.S., and UK operations. Cash is managed centrally within  each of the  two regionsregion with net earnings invested in the U.S. and working capital requirements met from existing U.S. intercompany liquid funds.

 

Because of fluctuations in currency exchange rates, the Company is subject to currency translation exposure on the results of its operations. Foreign currency translation risk is the risk that exchange rate gains or losses arise from translating foreign entities’ statements of earnings and balance sheets from functional currency to the Company’s reporting currency, the U.S. dollar, for consolidation purposes. As currency exchange rates fluctuate, translation of our Statements of Operationsour foreign operations into U.S. dollars affects the comparability of revenues and operating expenses between years.

 

 

Revenues and operating expenses are primarily denominated in the currencies of the countries in which our continuing operations are located, which is the U.S., Our U.K. operations were reclassified to discontinued operations in 2021 and UK.so the Company's revenues and operating expenses from continuing operations were not materially affected by foreign currency translation. We have limited operations in India and Australia. Our consolidated results of operations and cash flows are, therefore, subject to limited fluctuations due to changes in foreign currency exchange rates and mayis not expected to be adversely affected in the future due to changes in foreign exchange rates.

 

The table below details the percentage of revenues and expenses by the two principal currencies for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017:

  

U.S. Dollar

  

British

Pound

Sterling

 

Fiscal year ended December 31, 2019

        

Revenues

  40

%

  60

%

Operating expenses

  61

%

  39

%

Fiscal year ended December 31, 2018

        

Revenues

  23

%

  77

%

Operating expenses

  41

%

  59

%

Fiscal year ended December 31, 2017

        

Revenues

  18

%

  82

%

Operating expenses

  43

%

  57

%

To date, we have not entered into any hedging arrangements with respect to foreign currency risk and have limited activity with forward foreign currency contracts or other similar derivative instruments.

Investment Risk

The Company has an Investment Policy that, inter alia, provides an internal control structure that takes into consideration safety (credit risk and interest rate risk), liquidity and yield. Our Investment officers, CEO and CFO, oversee the investment portfolio and compile a quarterly analysis of the investment portfolio when applicable for internal use. In addition, the Company implemented a newan Investment Committee in 2019 to administer and operate the portfolio. At December 31, 2019,2021, the Investment Committee is comprised of C. Stephen Cochennet, Corey A. Lambrecht, Chairman, and Daniel Ford,Nicholas M. Grindstaff, CFO. See Item 10 of this Form 10-K for more information on the Company’s Investment Committee.

Cash and cash equivalents are diversified and maintained with several financial institutions. Deposits held with banks may exceed the amount of insurance provided on such deposits. Generally, these deposits may be redeemed upon demand and are maintained with financial institutions of reputable credit, therefore, bear minimal credit risk.

 

The Company has trade receivable and revenue concentrations with large customers, which include a largecustomers. See Note 15 of the Company's financial statements for more information on the Company's concentration of trade receivables and revenues in the United Kingdom.risks.

 

 

Item 8.  Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

 

This item includes the following financial information:

 

 

Page

Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting FirmsFirm (PCAOB ID Number 248)

4846

  

Consolidated Balance Sheets

5048

  

Consolidated Statements of Operations

5149

  

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income and (Loss)

5250

  

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity

5351

  

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

5452

  

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

5554 – 9089

  

Quarterly Financial Data

91

 

 

REPORTOF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

 

Board of Directors and StockholdersShareholders

 

CUI Global,Orbital Energy Group, Inc.

 

Opinion on the financial statements

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheetsheets of CUI Global,Orbital Energy Group, Inc. (a Colorado corporation) and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2019,2021 and 2020, the related consolidated statements of operations, and comprehensive income and (loss), changes in stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the year thentwo years in the period ended December 31, 2021, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2019,2021 and 2020, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the year thentwo years in the period ended December 31, 2021, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

Adoption of new accounting standard

As discussed in Note 16 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company changed its method of accounting for leases in 2019 due to the adoption of Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842), and the related amendments.

 

Basis for opinion

These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s financial statements based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audit we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.

Our audit included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audit also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audit provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

/s/ GRANT THORNTON LLP

We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2019.

Portland, Oregon

March 30, 2020

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Stockholders and Board of Directors

CUI Global, Inc.

Tualatin, Oregon

Opinion on the Consolidated Financial Statements

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of CUI Global, Inc. and Subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2018, the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income and (loss), changes in stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2018, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “consolidated financial statements”). In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company and subsidiaries at December 31, 2018, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2018, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

Adoption of New Accounting Standard

As discussed in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company has changed its method for the recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of revenue in the year ended December 31, 2018 due to the adoption of ASC 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers.

Basis for Opinion

These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s consolidated financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

 

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audits we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.

 

Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

EmphasisCritical audit matters

The critical audit matters communicated below are matters arising from the current period audit of the financial statements that were communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that: (1) relate to accounts or disclosures that are material to the consolidated financial statements and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters does not alter in any way our opinion on the financial statements, taken as a Matterwhole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matters below, providing  separate opinions on the critical audit matters or on the accounts or disclosures to which they relate.

 

Revenue Recognition

As discusseddescribed in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements, on September 30, 2019revenues derived from long-term fixed price contracts are recognized as the performance obligations are satisfied over time with the progress toward completion measured as a percentage of costs incurred to the total estimated cost for such performance obligation. In addition, the Company’s contracts may include variable considerations related to contract modifications through change orders or claims, and on November 11, 2019,management must also estimate the variable consideration the Company entered into agreementsexpects to divest itselfreceive in order to estimate the total contract revenue. We identified revenue recognized over time for long-term fixed price contracts to be a critical audit matter.

The principal considerations for our determination that revenue recognized over time for long-term fixed price contracts is a critical audit matter is that auditing management’s estimate of the progress towards completion of its Powerprojects was complex and Electromechanical segment and has also decidedsubjective. This is due to discontinue the remaining businessesconsiderable judgment required to evaluate management’s determination of the segment. The consolidated balance sheetforecasted costs to complete its long-term contracts as future results may vary significantly from past estimates due to changes in facts and circumstances. In addition, auditing the Company’s measurement of December 31, 2018variable consideration is also complex and highly judgmental and can have a material effect on the consolidated statementsamount of operations for eachrevenue recognized.

Our audit procedures related to the recognition of revenue over time included the following procedures, among others. i) We tested the Company’s cost-to-cost estimates by evaluating the appropriate application of the two yearscost to cost method;  ii) tested management’s process for determining the total estimated contract cost which included evaluating the contracts and other documents that support those estimates, and testing the underlying contract costs; iii) evaluated management’s ability to reasonably estimate total contract costs by performing a comparison of the actual total estimate contract costs as compared with the prior period estimates, including evaluating the timely identification of circumstances that may warrant a modification to the total estimated contract cost and iv) tested the estimated variable consideration by evaluating the appropriate application of the most likely amount method, and tracing amounts to supporting documentation.

Acquisition of Gibson Technical Services, IMMCO, and Front Line Power Construction

As described in Note 17 to the period ended December 31,2018 and the accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements, have been adjustedduring the year ended December 31, 2021, the Company completed acquisitions of Gibson Technical Services (“GTS”), IMMCO Inc., and Front Line Power Construction LLC, and the assets acquired and liabilities assumed were required to reflectbe recorded at fair value as of the Poweracquisition date, for which the Company utilized a third party valuation firm. We identified the fair value of the acquired intangible assets, including customer relationships and Electromechanical segmenttrade name to be a critical audit matter.

The principal considerations for our determination that the estimation of the Company’s methods and assumptions used in estimating the fair value of these acquired intangible assets is a critical audit matter, include the significant judgment required by management when estimating the fair value of these assets.. The estimation was significant primarily to the sensitivity of the respective fair value to the underlying assumptions used to estimate the future revenues and cash flows, including revenue growth rates, gross margins, the discount rate used and the valuation methodologies applied by the third party valuation firm. In addition, the audit effort involved the use of specialists to assist in performing these procedures and evaluating the audit evidence obtained.

Our audit procedures related to the fair value of the intangible assets acquired included the following, among others (i) evaluated the reasonableness of management’s forecasted financial results by testing the revenue growth rates and gross margins by comparing such items to actual historical results to identify material changes based on the Company’s future plans for the acquired entities, corroborating the basis for increases in forecasted revenue and gross margin, as discontinued operations.

applicable (ii) utilized a valuation specialist to evaluate the methodologies used and whether they were acceptable for the underlying assets or operations and being applied correctly by performing an independent calculation, the appropriateness of the discount rate by recalculating the weighted average cost of capital, and the qualification of third-party valuation firm engaged by the Company based on their credentials and experience.

 

/s/ Perkins & Company, P.C.GRANT THORNTON LLP

 

We have previously served as the Company'sCompany’s auditor from 2014 through 2018.since 2019.

 

Portland, Oregon

Dallas, Texas

 

March 18, 2019, except for Note 2, which is as of March 30, 202031, 2022

 

 

 

CUI Global,Orbital Energy Group, Inc.

Consolidated Balance Sheets

As of December 31, 2019 and 2018

 

 

December 31,

  

December 31,

  

December 31,

 

December 31,

 

(In thousands, except share and per share amounts)

 

2019

  

2018

  

2021

  

2020

 

Assets:

         

Current Assets:

         

Cash and cash equivalents

 $23,351  $3,979  $26,865  $3,046 

Trade accounts receivable, net of allowance of $47 and $17, respectively

  5,295   5,034 

Restricted cash - current

 150  452 

Trade accounts receivable, net of allowance

 48,752  5,689 

Inventories

  1,631   1,622  1,335  0 

Contract assets

  2,309   1,744  7,478  6,820 

Note receivable, current portion

     318 

Notes receivable, current portion

 3,536  44 

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

  2,215   1,512  6,919  2,601 

Assets held for sale, current portion

  6,893   21,272   6,679   6,146 

Total current assets

  41,694   35,481  101,714  24,798 

Property and equipment, less accumulated depreciation of $1,441 and $1,284, respectively

  4,454   4,540 

Investment in VPS - equity method

  4,865    

Property and equipment, less accumulated depreciation

 29,638  2,084 

Investment

 1,063  1,063 

Right of use assets - Operating leases

  5,524     18,247  6,268 

Other intangible assets, less accumulated amortization of $11,191 and $9,601, respectively

  4,298   5,353 

Restricted cash

     523 

Right of use assets - Financing leases

 14,702 0 

Goodwill

 100,899  7,006 

Other intangible assets, net

 142,656  10,553 

Restricted cash, noncurrent portion

 1,026  1,026 

Note receivable

  3,253     836  3,601 

Convertible note receivable

     655 

Deposits and other assets

  70   508   1,558   120 

Assets held for sale, noncurrent portion

     23,107   0  9,526 

Total assets

 $64,158  $70,167  $412,339  $66,045 
         

Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity:

         

Current Liabilities:

         

Accounts payable

 $2,904  $1,520  $10,111  $8,960 

Short-term overdraft facility

     1,344 

Notes payable, current

  473     72,774  11,681 

Line of credit

 2,500  441 

Operating lease obligations - current portion

  821     4,674  1,369 

Financing lease obligations - current portion

 4,939 0 

Accrued expenses

  5,159   1,893  28,301  4,372 

Contract liabilities

  1,668   1,956  6,503  4,873 

Deferred gain on leaseback, current portion

     289 

Financial instrument liability

 825 0 

Liabilities held for sale, current portion

  4,970   11,584   4,367   5,380 

Total current liabilities

  15,995   18,586  134,994  37,076 
        

Deferred tax liabilities

 260 0 

Notes payable, less current portion

 156,605  4,850 

Operating lease obligations, less current portion

  4,852     13,555  4,774 

Deferred gain on leaseback, less current portion

     2,599 

Financing lease obligations, less current portion

 9,939 0 

Other long-term liabilities

 720  1,368 

Liabilities held for sale, noncurrent portion

     7,241   0  830 

Other long-term liabilities

  194   203 

Total liabilities

  21,041   28,629   316,073   48,898 
         

Commitments and contingencies

               
         

Stockholders' Equity:

         

Preferred stock, par value $0.001; 10,000,000 shares authorized; no shares issued at December 31, 2019 or December 31, 2018

      

Common stock, par value $0.001; 325,000,000 shares authorized; 28,383,373 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2019 and 28,552,886 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2018

  29   29 

Preferred stock, par value $0.001; 10,000,000 shares authorized; no shares issued at December 31, 2021 or December 31, 2020

 0  0 

Common stock, par value $0.001; 325,000,000 shares authorized; 82,259,739 shares issued and 81,906,676 shares outstanding at December 31, 2021 and 31,029,642 shares issued and 30,676,579 shares outstanding at December 31, 2020

 82  31 

Additional paid-in capital

  170,106   169,898  311,487  171,616 

Treasury stock at cost; 353,063 shares held at December 31, 2019 and 0 shares held at December 31, 2018

  (413

)

   

Treasury stock at cost; 353,063 shares held at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020

 (413) (413)

Accumulated deficit

  (122,234

)

  (123,993

)

 (210,934) (149,681)

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

  (4,371

)

  (4,396

)

  (3,995)  (4,406)

Total Orbital Energy Group, Inc.'s stockholders' equity

 96,227 17,147 

Noncontrolling interest

 39 0 

Total stockholders' equity

  43,117   41,538   96,266   17,147 

Total liabilities and stockholders' equity

 $64,158  $70,167  $412,339  $66,045 
 

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements

 

5048

 

CUI Global,Orbital Energy Group, Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Operations

For the Years Ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017

 

(In thousands, except share and per share amounts)

             
 

2019

  

2018

  

2017

  

2021

  

2020

 

Revenues

 $23,492  $20,342  $18,843  $82,948  $21,487 

Cost of revenues

  17,680   17,783   12,913   78,630   19,567 

Gross profit

  5,812   2,559   5,930   4,318   1,920 

Operating expenses:

             

Selling, general and administrative expense

  20,063   18,629   17,506  50,024  19,041 

Depreciation and amortization

  1,544   1,549   1,366  6,762  3,260 

Research and development

  139   155   222 

Provision for (credit to) bad debt

  131   13   (16

)

Impairment of goodwill

     4,347   3,152 

Provision for bad debt

 346  1,626 

Other operating (income) expenses

  (20

)

     5   (23)  24 

Total operating expenses

  21,857   24,693   22,235   57,109   23,951 

Continuing loss from operations

  (16,045

)

  (22,134

)

  (16,305

)

Other income (expense)

  567   (316

)

  310 

Loss from operations

 (52,791) (22,031)

Other income

 777  982 

Interest expense

  (61

)

  (216

)

  (201

)

  (8,337)  (1,298)

Loss from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in net loss of affiliate

  (15,539

)

  (22,666

)

  (16,196

)

 (60,351) (22,347)

Net loss of affiliate

  (1,043

)

        0  (4,806)

Loss from continuing operations before taxes

  (16,582

)

  (22,666

)

  (16,196

)

 (60,351) (27,153)

Income tax benefit

  (2,956

)

  (1,342

)

  (2,251

)

  (10,508)  (1,451)

Loss from continuing operations, net of income taxes

  (13,626

)

  (21,324

)

  (13,945

)

  (49,843)  (25,702)

Discontinued operations (Note 2)

             

Income from operations of discontinued power and electromechanical components businesses (including gain on disposal of $14,100)

  12,908   5,135   2,001 

Income tax expense

  411   1,136   645 

Income from discontinued operations, net of income taxes

  12,497   3,999   1,356 

Loss from operations of discontinued businesses

 (12,705) (3,097)

Income tax benefit

  (1,334)  (1,352)

Loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes

  (11,371)  (1,745)

Net loss

 $(1,129

)

 $(17,325

)

 $(12,589

)

  (61,214)  (27,447)

Less: net income attributable to noncontrolling interest

  39   0 

Net loss attributable to Orbital Energy Group, Inc.

 $(61,253) $(27,447)
             

Basic and diluted weighted average number of shares outstanding

  28,654,500   28,517,339   22,397,865  58,348,489  29,937,863 

Loss from continuing operations per common share - basic and diluted

 $(0.48

)

 $(0.75

)

 $(0.62

)

 $(0.86) $(0.86)

Earnings from discontinued operations per common share - basic and diluted

  0.44   0.14   0.06 

Loss from discontinued operations per common share - basic and diluted

 $(0.19) $(0.06)

Loss per common share - basic and diluted

 $(0.04

)

 $(0.61

)

 $(0.56

)

 $(1.05) $(0.92)
 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements

49

Orbital Energy Group, Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income and (Loss)

For the Years Ended December 31,

(In thousands)

  

2021

  

2020

 

Net loss

 $(61,214) $(27,447)

Other comprehensive income (loss)

        

Foreign currency translation adjustment

  411   (21)

Reclassification adjustment

  0   (14)

Other comprehensive income (loss)

  411   (35)

Comprehensive loss

  (60,803)  (27,482)

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements

50

Orbital Energy Group, Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity

For the Years Ended December 31, 

(In thousands, except share amounts)

                          

Accumulated

             
          

Additional

              

Other

  

Total OEG

   Non-  

Total

 
  

Common Stock

  

Paid-in

  

Treasury Stock

  

Accumulated

  

Comprehensive

  

Stockholders'

  

controlling

  

Stockholders'

 
  

Shares

  

Amount

  

Capital

  

Shares

  

Amount

  

Deficit

  

Income (Loss)

  

Equity

  

Interest

  

Equity

 

Balance, January 1, 2020

  28,736,436  $29  $170,106   (353,063) $(413) $(122,234) $(4,371) $43,117  $0  $43,117 

Common stock issued for acquisition

  2,000,000   2   1,222   0   0   0   0   1,224   0   1,224 

Common stock issued for compensation, services, and royalty payments

  293,206   0   288   0   0   0   0   288   0   288 

Net loss for the year ended December 31, 2021

                 (27,447)     (27,447)  0   (27,447)

Other comprehensive loss

                    (35)  (35)  0   (35)

Balance, December 31, 2020

  31,029,642  $31  $171,616   (353,063) $(413) $(149,681) $(4,406) $17,147  $0  $17,147 

Issuance of common stock via equity raises

  25,966,515   26   78,020               78,046   0   78,046 

Common stock issued for acquisitions

  18,653,576   18   36,917   0   0   0   0   36,935   0   36,935 

Common stock issued and issuable for compensation, services and royalty payments

  1,891,056   2   12,155               12,157   0   12,157 

Common stock issued to lenders for OID for $105 million debt

  1,636,651   2   3,811   0   0   0   0   3,813   0   3,813 

Common stock issued for debt repayment

  3,082,299   3   8,968               8,971   0   8,971 

Net loss

                 (61,253)  0   (61,253)  39   (61,214)

Other comprehensive loss

                    411   411   0   411 

Balance, December 31, 2021

  82,259,739  $82   311,487   (353,063)  (413)  (210,934)  (3,995)  96,227   39   96,266 

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements

 

51

 

 

CUI Global,Orbital Energy Group, Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income and (Loss)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017

(In thousands)

  

2019

  

2018

  

2017

 

Net loss

 $(1,129

)

 $(17,325

)

 $(12,589

)

Other comprehensive income (loss)

            

Foreign currency translation adjustment

  25   (886

)

  2,080 

Comprehensive loss

 $(1,104

)

 $(18,211

)

 $(10,509

)

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements

52

CUI Global, Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity

For the Years Ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017

(In thousands, except share amounts)

          

Additional

              

Accumulated

Other

  

Total

 
  

Common Stock

  

Paid-in

  

Treasury Stock

  

Accumulated

  

Comprehensive

  

Stockholders'

 
  

Shares

  

Amount

  

Capital

  

Shares

  

Amount

  

Deficit

  

Income (Loss)

  

Equity

 

Balance, December 31, 2016

  20,916,848  $21  $150,174     $  $(95,970

)

 $(5,590

)

 $48,635 

Issuance of common stock

  7,392,856   7   18,898               18,905 

Common stock issued for exercises of options

  245                      

Common stock issued for compensation, services and royalty payments

  96,907      455               455 

Net loss for the year ended December 31, 2017

                 (12,589

)

     (12,589

)

                                 

Other comprehensive income

                    2,080   2,080 

Balance, December 31, 2017

  28,406,856   28   169,527         (108,559

)

  (3,510

)

  57,486 
                                 

Cumulative effect of accounting change

                 1,891      1,891 

Balance, January 1, 2018, adjusted

  28,406,856   28   169,527         (106,668

)

  (3,510

)

  59,377 

Common stock issued for compensation, services, and royalty payments

  146,030   1   371               372 

Net loss for the period ended December 31, 2018

                 (17,325

)

     (17,325

)

                                 

Other comprehensive loss

                    (886

)

  (886

)

Balance, December 31, 2018

  28,552,886   29   169,898         (123,993

)

  (4,396

)

  41,538 

Cumulative effect of accounting change

                 2,888      2,888 

Balance, January 1, 2019, adjusted

  28,552,886   29   169,898         (121,105

)

  (4,396

)

  44,426 

Common stock issued for compensation, services, and royalty payments

  183,550      208               208 

Common stock purchased as treasury shares

           (353,063

)

  (413

)

        (413

)

Net loss for the year ended December 31, 2019

                 (1,129

)

     (1,129

)

Other comprehensive income

                    25   25 

Balance, December 31, 2019

  28,736,436  $29  $170,106   (353,063

)

 $(413

)

 $(122,234

)

 $(4,371

)

 $43,117 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements

53

CUI Global, Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

For the Years Ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017

 (In thousands)

 

(In thousands)

  

2019

  

2018

  

2017

 

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:

            

Net loss

 $(1,129

)

 $(17,325

)

 $(12,589

)

Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities:

            

Depreciation

  724   1,103   1,009 

Amortization of intangibles

  1,637   1,902   1,841 

Amortization of note receivable discount

  (70

)

      

Stock issued and stock to be issued for compensation, royalties and services

  215   229   425 

Unrealized gain on derivative liability

     (129

)

  (111

)

Non-cash loss on equity method investment in affiliate

  1,043       

Non-cash fair value gain on equity method investment purchase

  (629

)

      

Non-cash royalties, net (see Note 2 - Investment and Note Receivable)

  5   (7

)

  (3

)

Provision for (credit to) bad debt expense and returns allowances

  136   33   (13

)

Deferred income taxes

  (2,574

)

  (352

)

  (1,767

)

Non-cash unrealized foreign currency (gain) loss

  (422

)

  246   (362

)

Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets

  278   4,347   3,155 

Inventory reserve

  79   1,592   138 

Impairment of deposits and other assets

     1,509    

Loss on disposal of assets

  31   13   47 

Gain on sale of businesses

  (14,100

)

      
             

(Increase) decrease in operating assets:

            

Trade accounts receivable

  1,510   (3,841

)

  (1,150

)

Inventories

  (119

)

  (2,235

)

  (411

)

Contract assets

  (512

)

  (61

)

  591 

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

  121   (392

)

  (421

)

Right of use assets - Operating leases

  1,825       

Deposits and other assets

  31   (59

)

  (506

)

Increase (decrease) in operating liabilities:

            

Accounts payable

  1,708   1,436   (1,163

)

Operating lease liabilities

  (1,755

)

      

Accrued expenses

  2,189   1,116   (464

)

Refund liabilities

  (1,339

)

  852   130 

Contingent consideration

        3 

Contract liabilities

  (401

)

  (2,260

)

  2,252 

NET CASH USED IN OPERATING ACTIVITIES

  (11,518

)

  (12,283

)

  (9,369

)

             

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:

            

Proceeds from sale of businesses

  35,396       

Proceeds from sale of building, net

     7,720    

Proceeds from sale of restricted investment

  400       

Cash paid for restricted investment

     (400

)

   

Purchases of property and equipment

  (321

)

  (1,042

)

  (893

)

Proceeds from sale of property and equipment

  21      8 

Cash paid for other intangible assets

  (353

)

  (492

)

  (638

)

Cash paid for convertible note receivable

     (655

)

   

Cash paid for equity-method investment

  (2,068

)

      

Proceeds from Notes receivable

  313   19   39 

NET CASH PROVIDED BY (USED IN) INVESTING ACTIVITIES

  33,388   5,150   (1,484

)

             

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

            

Proceeds from overdraft facility

  6,842   19,532   9,782 

Payments on overdraft facility

  (8,208

)

  (18,122

)

  (9,782

)

Proceeds from line of credit

  27,483   19,955   22,332 

Payments on line of credit

  (28,462

)

  (18,976

)

  (22,332

)

Payments on financing lease obligations

  (4

)

  (3

)

  (29

)

Payments on mortgage note payable

     (3,350

)

  (89

)

Payments on notes payable

  (303

)

      

Cash payments for repurchases of common stock

  (413

)

      

Payment to closeout derivative liability

     (227

)

   
             

Payments on contingent consideration

     (45

)

  (61

)

Proceeds from sales of common stock, net of offering costs

        18,905 

NET CASH (USED IN) PROVIDED BY FINANCING ACTIVITIES

  (3,065

)

  (1,236

)

  18,726 
             

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash

  44   225   156 

Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash

  18,849   (8,144

)

  8,029 

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of year

  4,502   12,646   4,617 

CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS AND RESTRICTED CASH AT END OF YEAR

 $23,351  $4,502  $12,646 
             

SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:

            

Income taxes paid

 $153  $237  $158 

Interest paid, net of capitalized interest

 $315  $520  $500 

SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF NON-CASH INVESTING AND FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

            

Non-cash item for January 1, 2019 adoption of ASC 842 - establishment of right-of-use assets and offsetting lease obligations

 $7,703  $  $ 

Note payable, related party assumed by buyer of electromechanical business as partial consideration for purchase of business

 $5,304  $  $ 

Non-cash investment in equity method investment

 $3,839  $  $ 

Common stock issued and issuable for royalties payable pursuant to product agreements, related party

 $30  $14  $16 

Common stock issued and to be issued for consulting services and compensation in common stock

 $178  $358  $439 

Accrued property and equipment purchases at December 31

 $8  $8  $27 

Accrued investment in other intangible assets at December 31

 $3  $55  $15 

Payment of insurance policy with short-term note payable

 $776  $  $ 
  

2021

  

2020

 

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:

        

Net loss

 $(61,214) $(27,447)

Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities:

        

Depreciation

  5,208   820 

Amortization of intangibles

  7,702   4,421 

Amortization of debt discount

  3,392   75 

Gain on extinguishment of debt and loan modifications

  (1,134)  0 

Amortization of note receivable discount

  (319)  (288)

Stock-based compensation and expense

  12,168   280 

Fair value adjustment to liability for stock appreciation rights

  2,054   648 

Fair value adjustment to financial instrument liability

  (33)  0 

Net loss of affiliate

  0   4,806 

Provision for bad debt

  343   1,639 

Deferred income taxes

  (10,878)  (1,006)

Non-cash unrealized foreign currency gain

  492   (310)

Impairment of assets held for sale

  9,185   0 

Inventory reserve

  (350)  (424)

Gain (loss) on disposal of assets

  (26)  39 

Gain on sale of businesses

  0   (14)
         

Change in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquisition:

        

Trade accounts receivable

  (19,173)  3,675 

Inventories

  (425)  3,766 

Contract assets

  (296)  (2,250)

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

  41   1,614 

Right of use assets/lease liabilities, net of acquisitions:

  49   (222)

Deposits and other assets

  (24)  (1,197)

Increase (decrease) in operating liabilities:

        

Accounts payable

  (38)  (3,521)

Accrued expenses

  4,540   (1,856)

Contract liabilities

  3,060   1,720 

NET CASH USED IN OPERATING ACTIVITIES

  (45,676)  (15,032)
         

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:

        

Cash paid for acquisitions, net of cash received

  (132,518)  (2,981)

Purchases of property and equipment

  (7,779)  (1,696)

Deposits on financing lease property and equipment

  (762)  0 

Cash paid for working capital adjustment on Power group disposition

  0   (2,804)

Sale of discontinued operations, net of cash

  0   (227)

Proceeds from sale of property and equipment

  141   605 

Purchase of other intangible assets

  (705)  (11)

Purchase of convertible note receivable

  0   (260)

Purchase of investments

  (1,025)  (532)

Proceeds from notes receivable

  621   0 

NET CASH USED IN INVESTING ACTIVITIES

  (142,027)  (7,906)
         

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

        

Proceeds from line of credit

  3,250   100 

Payments on line of credit

  (1,191)  (109)

Payments on financing lease obligations

  (1,995)  (4)

Proceeds from notes payable, net of debt discounts and issuances costs

  143,045   8,145 

Payments on notes payable

  (9,941)  (4,131)

Proceeds from sales of common stock

  78,046   0 

NET CASH PROVIDED BY FINANCING ACTIVITIES

  211,214   4,001 
         

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash

  6   110 

Net (decrease) increase in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash

  23,517   (18,827)

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of year

  4,524   23,351 

CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS AND RESTRICTED CASH AT END OF YEAR

 $28,041  $4,524 

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements

 

5452

  

2021

  

2020

 

Income taxes paid (net refunded)

 $(316) $(1,003)

Interest paid

 $2,257  $1,025 

SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF NON-CASH INVESTING AND FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

        

Non-cash investment in acquisitions including seller notes, equity issued and contingent consideration

 $123,457  $8,424 

Financing note payable issued for payment on certain insurance policies, net of insurance cancellation

 $2,854  $2,457 

Accrued property and equipment purchases at December 31

 $404  $631 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements

53

 

CUI Global,Orbital Energy Group, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

 

 

1. NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND BASIS OF PRESENTATION

 

CUI GlobalOrbital Energy Group, Inc. (CUI Global)(Orbital Energy Group, "OEG," "The Company") The Company is a platformdiversified infrastructure services company composed of oneserving customers in the electric power, telecommunications, and renewable markets. The Company’s reportable segments are the Electric Power segment, the EnergyTelecommunications segment, and the Renewables segment. In 2019,December 2021, the Company announced the planned divestiture of its previous Integrated Energy Infrastructure Solutions and Services segment. In 2020, the Company divested of mostthe remaining portion of its previous Power and Electromechanical segment and most of the remaining portion of that segment was included in assets held for sale at December 31, 2019.segment.

 

The Company’s EnergyElectric Power segment consists of Front Line Power Construction, LLC based in Houston, Texas, Orbital Power, Inc. based in Dallas, Texas, and Eclipse Foundation Group based in Gonzales, Louisiana. The segment provides comprehensive infrastructure solutions to customers in the electric power industry. Services performed by Front Line Power and Orbital Power, Inc. generally include but are not limited to the engineering, design, installation, upgrade, repair and maintenance of electric power transmission and distribution infrastructure and substation facilities as well as emergency restoration services. Eclipse Foundation Group, which began operations in January 2021, is a drilled shaft foundation construction company that specializes in providing services to the electric transmission and substation, industrial, telecommunication and disaster restoration market sectors, with expertise performing services in water, marsh and rock terrains.

The Telecommunications segment is made up of Orbital Gas Systems Ltd. (Orbital-UK)Gibson Technical Services, Inc. (“GTS”) (acquired April 13, 2021). GTS is an Atlanta-based telecommunications company providing diversified telecommunications services nationally since 1990 and Orbital Gas Systems, North America, Inc. (Orbital North America), collectively referred to as Orbital Gas Systems (Orbital). Orbital-UK is a United Kingdom-based providerthe parent of natural gas infrastructure and advanced technology, including metering, odorization, remote telemetry units (‘‘RTU’’) and provides a diverse range of personalized gas engineering solutions to the gas utilities, power generation, emissions, manufacturing and automotive industries. Orbital Gas Systems, North America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary that represents the Energy segment in the North American market. GasPT® and VE® Technology products are sold through Orbital.following companies:

 

55

Orbital Solar Services based in Sanford, North Carolina. Orbital Solar Services provides engineering, procurement and construction (“EPC”) services that support the development of renewable energy generation focused on utility-scale solar construction. The Company serves a wide variety of project types, including commercial, substation, solar farms and public utility projects.

 

 

2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Use of 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, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Significant estimates include estimates used to reviewrecord purchase price allocation for the Company’sCompany's acquisitions, fair value measurements used in goodwill impairment tests, impairment estimations of long-lived assets, revenue recognition on cost-to-cost type contracts, allowances for uncollectible accounts, inventory valuation, warranty reserves, valuations of non-cash capital stock issuances, estimates of the incremental borrowing rate for long-term leases, fair value estimates and the valuation allowance on deferred tax assets. The Company bases its estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable in the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.

 

Company Conditions

54

The continued delays in shipment of GasPTs on a significant project, and the related slower than expected acceptance of this new disruptive technology and the ongoing impact of Brexit has caused a delay in our expected profitability from continuing operations.

The Company had net loss of $1.1 million and cash used in operating activities of $11.5 million during the year ended December 31, 2019. As of December 31, 2019, our accumulated deficit is $122.2 million.

Management believes the Company's present cash flows will meet its obligations for twelve months from the date these financial statements are available to be issued. Including our cash balance, we have $25.7 million of positive working capital primarily related to assets held for sale, trade accounts receivable, prepaid assets, contract assets and our inventory less current liabilities that we will manage in the next twelve months to create positive cash flow. Considering the above factors management believes the Company can meet its obligations for the twelve-month period from the date the financial statements are available to be issued.

Principles of Consolidation

The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of CUI Global,Orbital Energy Group, Inc. and its wholly owned subsidiaries Front Line Power Construction, LLC, Orbital Gas Systems, Ltd.Power, Inc., Eclipse Foundation Group, Orbital Solar Services, Gibson Technical Services, Inc., and Orbital Gas Systems, North America,GTS's wholly owned subsidiaries, IMMCO, Inc. and Full Moon Telecom, LLC hereafter referred to as the ‘‘Company.’’ AdditionalAdditionally, the following wholly owned subsidiaries are included in these financial statements as discontinued operations: Orbital Gas Systems, Ltd., Orbital Gas Systems, North America, Inc., and the following in 2020 only: CUI Holdings Inc. (formerly(formerly CUI, Inc.), CUI Japan, CUI-Canada, and CUI Properties, LLC are included in these financial statements as discontinued operations.LLC. The primary assets and liabilities of CUI Holdings Inc. were sold or settled during 2019 and CUI Japan, and CUI-Canada are classified as held for sale.were sold or settled in 2020. CUI Properties is a dormant administrative entity. Significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

 

Variable Interest Entity

Orbital Solar Services entered into an agreement in 2021 to form OSS-JPOW Solar Services, LLC (OSS-JPOW), a partnership with Jingoli Power, LLC. Orbital Solar Services holds a controlling interest in OSS-JPOW and the portions of OSS-JPOW’s net earnings and equity not attributable to Orbital Solar Service’s controlling interest are shown separately as noncontrolling interests in the consolidated statements of operations and consolidated balance sheets. OSS-JPOW is considered a Variable Interest Entity (VIE) to Orbital Solar Services.

Orbital Solar Services, through its controlling interest in OSS-JPOW, has the power to direct the activities that significantly affect the economic performance of OSS-JPOW and the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits that could be significant to OSS-JPOW; therefore, Orbital Solar Services is considered the primary beneficiary and consolidates OSS-JPOW. During 2021, Jingoli Power, LLC did not make contributions to or distributions from OSS-JPOW. For the year ended December 31, 2021, $0.1 million of income was attributable to OSS-JPOW with $39 thousand allocated to non-controlling interest.

Company Conditions and Sources of Liquidity

The Company has experienced net losses and cash outflows from cash used in operating activities over the past years. As of and for the twelve months ended December 31, 2021, the Company had an accumulated deficit of $210.9 million, loss from continuing operations of $49.8 million, and net cash used in operating activities of $45.7 million.

As of December 31, 2021, the Company had Cash and cash equivalents of $26.9 million available for working capital needs and planned capital asset expenditures and a working capital deficit of approximately $33.3 million, including current maturities of debt. These factors initially raise substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern, but this doubt has been alleviated by the Company’s plans to raise sufficient capital to meet our current obligations over the next twelve months, in addition to the expected recovery of our assets to satisfy liabilities in the normal course of business.

The Company has plans to access additional capital to meet its obligations for the twelve months from the date these financial statements are available to be issued. Historically, the Company has raised additional equity and debt financing to fund the expansion; refer to Note – 10 Stockholders Equity and Stock-Based Compensation and Note 7Notes Payable. The Company has also funded some of its capital expenditures through long-term financing with lenders and other investors as also described in further detail in Note 7 Notes Payable. Our ability to raise the additional capital is dependent on a number of factors, including, but not limited to, the market demand for our common stock, which itself is subject to a number of business risks and uncertainties, our creditworthiness and the uncertainty that we would be able to raise such additional capital at a price that is favorable to us. The Company currently has an effective S-3 shelf registration statement with $112 million of aggregate offering value available for the issuance of various types of securities, including common stock, preferred stock, debt securities and/or warrants. While management will look to continue funding future acquisitions, organic growth initiatives and continuing operations by raising additional capital from sources such as sales of its debt or equity securities or notes payable in order to meet operating cash requirements, there is no assurance that management’s plans will be successful.

As the Company continues its progression to build a full-service infrastructure services platform, a successful transition to attaining profitable operations is dependent upon achieving a level of positive cash flows through generating adequate revenue growth to support the Company’s cost structure. For the twelve months ended December 31, 2021, our revenues have increased by $61.5 million resulting in a 286% increase in revenue from the prior year. The significant increase in revenues during the year was primarily driven by the strategic acquisitions of Front Line Power Construction, LLC, Gibson Technical Services, IMMCO, Inc., and Full Moon Telecom, LLC made coupled with organic growth within Orbital Power Services. In addition, two large utility scale solar projects were awarded to Orbital Solar Systems during the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2021. We anticipate, based on currently proposed plans and assumptions relating to our operations, the Company to generate sufficient revenue growth required to achieve profitability and generate positive cash flows from operations over the next twelve months. No assurance can be made that we will be able to obtain profitability and positive cash flows from our continuing operations.

The Company plans to meet its obligations as they become due over the next twelve months by raising additional capital through equity and debt financing sources and expected positive cash flows generated from operations. Given the considerations, we believe the mitigating effect of management’s plans has alleviated any substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern.

Discontinued Operations and Sales of Businesses

As part of the Company’s stated strategy to transform CUI GlobalOrbital Energy Group into a diversified energy infrastructure services platform serving North American and U.K. energy customers, the Company’s board of directors made the decision to divest of its PowerOrbital Gas subsidiaries. The Orbital Gas subsidiaries provide proprietary gas measurement and Electromechanical businesses. On September 30, 2019, CUI Global, Inc. entered into an asset sale agreement bysampling technologies and among, CUI, Inc. ("Seller"), a wholly owned subsidiarythe integration of process control and measuring/sampling systems. They are legacy businesses that are not part of the Company ("Parent"),Company’s strategy of  building an infrastructure services company serving the electric power, telecommunications and Back Porch International, Inc. ("Buyer") to sellrenewable markets. The disposition of the Orbital Gas subsidiaries will facilitate the Company’s Electromechanicalrestructuring and cost savings initiatives and are intended to realign and simplify its business structure and better position the Company for future growth and improved profitability. In the fourth quarter the Company recorded a $9.2 million impairment related to a management led group. In November 2019, CUI Global, Inc. entered into an asset sale agreement by and among,its U.K. operations to write the Seller and Bel Fuse, Inc.value of its investment in the U.K. operations to sell the domestic Power supply business. Both sales closed in 2019 for combined cash proceedsits expected realizable value of $35.43 million and combined gain on sale of $14.1 million. At GBP ($4.1 million at December 31, 2019,2021). Assets and liabilities held for sale are included in the Company's balance sheet and are described below. In 2020, the assets and liabilities of the Company's CUI-Canada and CUI Japan subsidiaries are includedwere sold as held for sale.

well. 

Pursuant to the terms of the asset sale agreement with Back Porch International, Inc., the Seller and Parent agreed to sell and assign to the management-led group, Back Porch International, Inc., the rights and obligations of Seller and Parent to the assets constituting the non-power supply electromechanical components product group of Seller and Parent effective the close of business September 30, 2019 for $15 million (the "Purchase Consideration"). The Purchase Consideration consisted of approximately $4.7 million in cash at closing, assumption of debt of the CUI Parent in the approximate amount of $5.3 million, and a 5-year note with the timing of payments based upon a multiple of EBITDA of the Business above $3.5 million, guaranteed to be a total of $5 million (fair value of $3.3 million at December 31, 2019). In addition to the assets purchased, the Buyer shall assume and agree to pay, perform and discharge certain liabilities agreed to by the Buyer and Seller ("Assumed Liabilities") including scheduled accounts payable and vendor purchase orders at the closing of the disposition, with the Sellers generally remaining obligated for remaining pre-closing liabilities other than the assumed liabilities (the “Excluded Liabilities”).

Pursuant to the terms of the asset sale agreement with Bel Fuse Inc., the Seller and Parent, excluding CUI-Canada and CUI Japan, agreed to sell and assign to the Bel Fuse Inc., the rights and obligations of Seller and Parent to the assets constituting the majority of its power supply business of Seller and Parent, excluding CUI-Canada and CUI Japan, effective upon close of the transaction for $32 million subject to closing working capital adjustments (the "Purchase Consideration"). In addition to the assets purchased, the Buyer assumed and agreed to pay, perform and discharge certain liabilities agreed to by the Buyer and Seller ("Assumed Liabilities") including scheduled accounts payable and vendor purchase orders at the closing of the disposition, with the Sellers generally remaining obligated for remaining pre-closing liabilities other than the assumed liabilities (the “Excluded Liabilities”).

The associated results of operations of the discontinued Power and Electromechanical segment are separately reported as Discontinued Operations for all periods presented on the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Balance sheet items for the discontinued businesses, from the former Power and Electromechanical segment have been reclassified to assets held for sale within current assets and liabilities held for sale within current liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2019 and have been reclassified to assets held for sale within current and noncurrent assets and liabilities held for sale within current and noncurrent liabilities as of December 31, 2018. Cash flows from these discontinued businesses are included in the consolidated cash flow statements. See below for additional information on operating and investing cash flows of the discontinued operations. Results from continuing operations for the Company and segment highlights exclude the former Power and Electromechanical segment, which is included in these discontinued operations. The notes to the consolidated financial statements have also been adjusted for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 from previous disclosures as a result of the discontinued operations of the Power and Electromechanical segment.

The former Power and Electromechanical segment consists of the wholly owned subsidiaries: CUI Holding, Inc. (CUI), based in Tualatin, Oregon; CUI Japan, based in Tokyo, Japan; CUI-Canada, based in Toronto, Canada; and the entity that previously held the corporate building, CUI Properties. All three operating subsidiaries are providers of power and electromechanical components for Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs). Remaining goodwill at CUI-Canada and CUI Japan was written down to $0 in 2019 as well as the remaining $92 thousand of customer relationship intangible at CUI-Canada.

The Power and Electromechanical segment aggregates its product offerings into two categories: power solutions - including external and embedded ac-dc power supplies, dc-dc converters and basic digital point of load modules and offering a technology architecture that addresses power and related accessories; and components - including connectors, speakers, buzzers, and industrial control solutions including encoders and sensors. These offerings provide a technology architecture that addresses power and related accessories to industries as broadly ranging as telecommunications, consumer electronics, medical and defense.

 

Selected data for these discontinued businesses consisted of the following:

 

Reconciliation of the Major Classes of Line Items Constituting Pretax Income from Discontinued Operations to the After-Tax Income from Discontinued Operations to the After-Tax Income from Discontinued Operations That Are Presented in the Statement of Operations

 

(In thousands)

             
             
 

For the Year

  

For the Year

 
 

Ended December 31,

  

Ended December 31,

 
             

Major classes of line items constituting pretax profit (loss) of discontinued operations

 

2019

  

2018

  

2017

  

2021

  

2020

 
             

Revenues

 $56,476  $76,447  $64,432  $19,855  $33,278 

Cost of revenues

  (37,086

)

  (50,096

)

  (42,493

)

 (14,193) (23,637)

Selling, general and administrative expense

  (19,384

)

  (17,712

)

  (16,415

)

 (8,550) (11,205)

Depreciation and amortization

  (300

)

  (603

)

  (797

)

 (1,638) (1,489)

Research and development

  (854

)

  (2,647

)

  (2,303

)

 (2) (45)

Provision for bad debt

  (5

)

  (20

)

  (3

)

Impairment of goodwill and intangible assets

  (278

)

     (3

)

(Provision) credit for bad debt

 3  (13)

Impairment of assets held for sale

 (9,185) 0 

Gain on extinguishment of PPP loan

 779  0 

Interest expense

  (277

)

  (286

)

  (299

)

 (2) (5)
            

Other income and expense

  (113

)

  52   (118

)

Pretax (loss) profit of discontinued operations related to major classes of pretax (loss) profit

  (1,821

)

  5,135   2,001 

Other income and (expense)

  228   (98)

Pretax profit (loss) of discontinued operations related to major classes of pretax profit (loss)

 (12,705) (3,214)

Pretax gain on sale of certain power and electromechanical businesses

  14,100        0  117 

Pretax gain on assets contributed as part of the purchase of VPS

  629       

Total pretax income on discontinued operations

  12,908   5,135   2,001  (12,705) (3,097)

Income tax expense

  411   1,136   645 

Income tax benefit

  (1,334)  (1,352)
             

Total income from discontinued operations

 $12,497  $3,999  $1,356  $(11,371) $(1,745)

 

Reconciliation of the Carrying Amounts of Major Classes of Assets and Liabilities of the Discontinued Operation to Total Assets and Liabilities of the Discontinued Operation to Total Assets and Liabilities of the Disposal Group Classified as Held for Sale

 

 

As of December 31,

  

As of December 31,

  

As of December 31,

 

As of December 31,

 

(In thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

2021

  

2020

 
         

Carrying amounts of the major classes of assets included in discontinued operations:

             
         

Trade accounts receivables

 $1,740  $9,382  $2,996  $2,798 

Inventories

  3,254   11,420  530  1,123 

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

  140   470  114  1,185 

Total current assets *

      21,272 

Contract assets

  1,141   1,040 

Assets held for sale, current portion

 4,781 6,146 

Property and equipment

  273   1,433  42  4,311 

Right of use assets - Operating leases

  391     0  786 

Goodwill

     13,089 

Other intangible assets

  352   8,508  1,813  3,144 

Deferred tax asset

  663    

Deposits and other assets

  80   77   43   1,285 

Total noncurrent assets *

      23,107 

Assets held for sale, noncurrent portion

  1,898  9,526 

Total assets of the disposal group classified as held for sale

 $6,893  $44,379  $6,679  $15,672 
         

Carrying amounts of the major classes of liabilities included in discontinued operations:

             
         

Accounts payable

 $618  $4,960  $1,657  $953 

Line of credit

     979 

Operating lease obligations - current portion

  410    

Contract liabilities

  1,414   1,937 

Operating lease obligations, current portion

 76  415 

Accrued expenses

  3,935   2,958  1,126 1,510 

Contract liabilities

     270 

Refund liabilities

     2,417 
        

Total current liabilities *

      11,584 
        

Long term note payable, related party

     5,304 

Notes payable - PPP, current portion

  0   565 

Liabilities held for sale, current portion

  4,273  5,380 

Operating lease obligations, less current portion

  7     85 436 

Deferred tax liabilities

     1,922 

Notes payable - PPP, less current portion

  0  207 

Other long-term liabilities

     15   9  187 

Total noncurrent liabilities *

      7,241 

Total liabilities

 $4,970  $18,825 

Liabilities held for sale, noncurrent portion

  94  830 

Total liabilities held for sale

 $4,367 $6,210 

 

* The assets and liabilities of the disposal group classified as held for sale are classified as current on the December 31, 2019 2021 balance sheet because it is probable that the sale will occur and proceeds will be collected within one year.

 

Net cash (used) provided by operating activities of discontinued operations for 2019, 20182021 and 20172020 was $2.7($3.2) million and $4.5 million, and $3.7$1.9 million, respectively.

 

Net cash used inprovided by (used in) investing activities of discontinued operations for 2019, 20182021 and 20172020 was $0.5 million$0 and $1.3 million, and $1.0($1.8) million, respectively.

 

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

Accounting Standards Codification (‘‘ASC’’) 820 ‘‘Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures’’ (‘‘ASC 820’’) defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value under generally accepted accounting principles in the U.S., and enhances disclosures about fair value measurements. ASC 820 describes a fair value hierarchy based on three levels of inputs, of which the firsttwo are considered observable and the last unobservable, that may be used to measure fair value, which are the following:

 

Level 1 – Pricing inputs are quoted prices available in active markets for identical assets or liabilities as of the reporting date.

Level 2 – Pricing inputs are quoted for similar assets, or inputs that are observable, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term through corroboration with observable market data. Level 2 includes assets or liabilities valued at quoted prices adjusted for legal or contractual restrictions specific to these investments.

Level 3 – Pricing inputs are unobservable for the assets or liabilities; that is, the inputs reflect the reporting entity’s own assumptions about the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability.

Level 1 – Pricing inputs are quoted prices available in active markets for identical assets or liabilities as of the reporting date.

Level 2 – Pricing inputs are quoted for similar assets, or inputs that are observable, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term through corroboration with observable market data. Level 2 includes assets or liabilities valued at quoted prices adjusted for legal or contractual restrictions specific to these investments.

Level 3 – Pricing inputs are unobservable for the assets or liabilities; that is, the inputs reflect the reporting entity’s own assumptions about the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability.

 

The Company determines when a financial instrument transfers between levels based on management’s judgment of the significance of unobservable inputs used to calculate the fair value of the financial instrument.

 

Management believes the carrying amounts of the short-term financial instruments, including cash and cash equivalents, investment, note receivable, accounts receivable, contract assets, prepaid expense and other assets, accounts payable, accrued liabilities, contract liabilities, and other current liabilities reflected in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet approximate fair value at December 31, 2019 2021 and 20182020 due to the relatively short-term nature of these instruments. NotesThe carrying value of the notes payable approximate fair value based on the proximity of the issuance to the balance sheet date and current market conditions.conditions, including the Company's $86.7 million Front Line Power seller notes, and $105 million syndicated term note debt issued in the three months ended December 31, 2021, which included a subscription agreement that was determined to be a financial instrument that is valued at fair value at inception and December 31, 2021. See Note 3 for fair value of financial instruments.

 

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash includes deposits at financial institutions with maturities of three months or less. The Company at times has cash in banks in excess of FDIC insurance limits and places its temporary cash investments with high credit quality financial institutions. The Company considers all highly liquid marketable securities with maturities of 90 days or less at the date of acquisition to be cash equivalents. Cash equivalents include money market funds, certificates of deposit and commercial paper. At December 31, 2019 2021 and 2018,2020, the Company had $1.0$2.3 million and $0.3$0.6 million, respectively, of cash and cash equivalents balances at domestic financial institutions that were covered under the FDIC insured deposits programs and $0.3$0.4 million and $67 thousand,$0.2 million, respectively, at foreign financial institutions covered under the United Kingdom Financial Services Compensation (FSC) and the Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation (CDIC).internationally. At December 31, 2019 2021 and 2018,2020, the Company held $0.2$2.1 million and $0.3 million,$2.2, respectively, in Japanese foreign bank accounts and $0.6 million and $0, respectively, in European foreign bank accounts and $0.2 million and $67 thousand, respectively, in Canadian bank accounts. In addition to the Company's unrestricted cash and cash equivalents at December 31, 2019 2021 and 2018,2020, the Company has $0$0.2 million and $0.5 of current restricted cash and $1.0 million and $1.0 million, respectively, of long-term restricted cash on its balance sheet related to a contract guarantee.guarantees. Restricted cash is combined with other cash and cash equivalents in reconciling the change in cash on the Company's Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.

 

(In thousands)

 

As of December 31,

  

As of December 31,

 
 

2019

  

2018

  

2017

  

2021

  

2020

 

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

 $3,979  $12,646  $4,617  $3,046  $23,351 

Restricted cash at beginning of year

  523         1,478   0 

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of year

 $4,502  $12,646  $4,617  $4,524  $23,351 
             

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

 $23,351  $3,979  $12,646  $26,865  $3,046 

Restricted cash at end of year

     523      1,176   1,478 

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of year

 $23,351  $4,502  $12,646  $28,041  $4,524 

 

60
58

Investments and Notes Receivable

TheAt December 31, 2021, the Company obtainedhad a note receivable in 2019from Back Porch International that was originated as part of the divestiture of the Company's electromechanical components business. The note has a futurean original stated value of $5 million, and is presented on the balance sheet as of December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 at its present value of $3.3 million.

Test Products International, Inc. ("TPI") is a providermillion and $3.5 million, respectively, including $2.5 million and $44 thousand of handheld test and measurement equipment.current maturities, respectively. The Company hadobtained asecond note receivable with TPI, which originated in 2016 earning interest at 5% per annum with an original value of $0.42020 from Back Porch International for $0.1 million and whichas payment for the Company's CUI Japan subsidiary. The second note receivable was due June 30, 2019. Thepaid in 2021. Subsequent to December 31, 2021, the Company recorded interest incomereceived final payment on the note of $8 thousand, $17 thousand and $18 thousand for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively. The interest receivable was settled on a quarterly basis via a non-cash offset against the finders-fee royalties earned by TPI on GasPT sales. Finders-fee royalties of $36 thousand, $10 thousand and $16 thousand were earned by TPI in the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively, and $13 thousand, $10, thousand and $16 thousand, respectively for those years, were offset against the note receivable on a quarterly basis. This note receivable was collected in 2019. Also, in 2018 and 2017, the Company received $19 thousand and $39 thousand, respectively, in cash payments against the note. The balance on the note receivable at December 31, 2019 and 2018 was $0 and $318 thousand, respectively.receivable.

 

During 2018, the Company made two strategic investments in convertible notes receivable with Virtual Power Systems ("VPS") for a total of $655 thousand. CUI Holdings, Inc. was the exclusive third-party design and development provider of VPS's ICE (Intelligent Control of Energy) products. These notes were converted to VPS stock in 2019. See Note 3, Investments and Fair Value Measurements for more information on these convertible notes.

Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Uncollectible Accounts

Accounts receivable consist of the receivables associated with revenue derived from productservice sales including present amounts due to contracts accounted for under fixed price, cost-to-cost, cost plus, or output method. An allowance for uncollectible accounts is recorded to allow for any amounts that may not be recoverable, based on an analysis of prior collection experience, customer credit worthiness and current economic trends. Based on management’s review of accounts receivable, an allowance for doubtful accounts of $47 thousand$1.5 million and $17 thousand$1.2 million at December 31, 2019 2021 and 2018,2020, respectively, is considered adequate. The reserve in both periods considers aged receivables that management believes should be specifically reserved for as well as historic experience with bad debts to determine the total reserve appropriate for each period. Receivables are determined to be past due based on the payment terms of original invoices. The Company grants credit to its customers, with standardPayment terms of Net 30 days.and conditions vary by contract, and are within industry standards across our business lines. The Company routinely assesses the financial strength of its customers and, therefore, believes that its accounts receivable credit risk exposure is limited.

 

Activity in the allowance for doubtful accounts for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 2021 and 20172020 is as follows:

 

(In thousands)

 

For the Years ended December 31,

  

For the Years ended December 31,

 
 

2019

  

2018

  

2017

  

2021

  

2020

 

Allowance for doubtful accounts, beginning of year

 $17  $5  $21  $1,172  $0 

Charge (credit) to costs and expenses

  131   13   (16

)

Bad debt expense

 346  1,626 

Deductions

  (101

)

  (1

)

     (31)  (454)
             

Allowance for doubtful accounts, end of year

 $47  $17  $5  $1,487  $1,172 

 

6159

Retainage Receivables

At December 31, 2021, the Company had $1.5 million billed but not paid by customers under retainage provisions in contracts. These amounts are included as part of contract assets.

 

Inventories

Inventories consist of finished and unfinished products and are stated at the lower of cost or market through either the first-in, first-outfirst-in, first-out (FIFO) method as a cost flow convention or through the moving average cost method.

 

At December 31, 2019,2021, and 2018,2020, inventory is presented on the balance sheet net of reserves. The Company provides reserves for inventories estimated to be excess, obsolete or unmarketable. The Company’s estimation process for assessing the net realizable value is based upon its known backlog, projected future demand, historical usage and expected market conditions. Manufactured inventory includes material, labor and overhead. Inventory by category consists of:

 

(In thousands)

 

As of December 31,

  

As of December 31,

 
 

2019

  

2018

  

2021

  

2020

 

Finished goods

 $434  $665  $0  $0 

Raw materials

  244   394  1,316  0 

Work-in-process

  953   563   19   0 

Total inventories

 $1,631  $1,622  $1,335  $0 

 

Activity in inventory reserves is as follows:

(In thousands)

 

For the Years ended December 31,

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

2017

 

Inventory reserves, beginning of year

 $1,499  $104  $110 

Charge to costs and expenses

  202   1,401   (16

)

Other additions (deductions)

  59   (6

)

  10 

Inventory reserves, end of year

 $1,760  $1,499  $104 

Land, Buildings, Improvements, Furniture, Vehicles, Equipment,Property and Leasehold Improvementsequipment, less accumulated depreciation

Land is recorded at cost and includes expenditures made to ready it for use. Land is considered to have an infinite useful life.

 

Buildings and improvements are recorded at cost.

 

Furniture, vehicles, and equipment are recorded at cost and include major expenditures, which increase productivity or substantially increase useful lives.

 

Leasehold improvements are recorded at cost and are depreciated over the lesser of the lease term or estimated useful life.

 

The cost of buildings, improvements, furniture, vehicles, and equipment is depreciated over the estimated useful lives of the related assets.

 

Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method for financial reporting purposes. The estimated useful lives for buildings, improvements, furniture, vehicles, and equipment are as follows:

 

  

Estimated

Useful

Life (in years)

 

Buildings and improvements

  5to39 

Furniture and equipment

  3to10 

Vehicles

  3to5 

Estimated

Useful

Life (in years)

Leasehold improvements

5 to 10

Equipment

3 to 10

 

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Maintenance, repairs and minor replacements are charged to expenses when incurred. When buildings, improvements, furniture, equipment and vehicles are sold or otherwise disposed of, the asset and related accumulated depreciation are removed and any gain or loss is included in the statement of operations.

 

Long-Lived Assets Including Finite-Lived Intangible Assets

Long-lived assets including finite-lived intangible assets are periodically reviewed for impairment whenever circumstances and situations change such that there is an indication that the carrying amounts may not be recoverable. In performing the review for recoverability, the future cash flows expected to result from the use of the asset and its eventual disposition are estimated. If the sum of the expected future cash flows (undiscounted and without interest charges) is less than the carrying amount of the long-lived asset, an impairment loss is recognized as the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value. Otherwise, an impairment loss is not recognized. Management estimates the fair value and the estimated future cash flows expected. Any changes in these estimates could impact whether there was impairment and the amount of the impairment.

 

In the fourth quarter of 2018, the Company determined that certain long-term prepaid assets classified on the balance sheet as deposits and other assets, which were reliant on future revenue in order to be amortized to expense, did not have adequate forecasted revenue to justify the current valuation. This was primarily driven by the lack of substantial sales over a two-year period and uncertainty regarding the level of future sales. For that reason, the Company recorded a $1.5 million impairment to deposits and other assets and reclassified $0.1 million to prepaid assets. The amount reclassified to prepaid assets related to prepaid royalties associated with expected 2019 revenue.

Other than on goodwill, noNaN impairments were recognized on long-lived assets in 2019, 20182021 or 2017. In 2018,2020 except in 2021, the Company performedwrote down the assets held for sale of its discontinued Orbital U.K. operations by $9.2 million based on an undiscounted cash flows impairment analysis as prescribed under ASC 360 Property, Plant and Equipment on its long-lived fixed assets and its finite lived intangible assetsexpected selling price of 3 million GBP ($4.1 million at Orbital-UK due to an indication that the overall carrying value of the operating unit was not recoverable. Based upon that analysis, no impairment was identified for those assets.December 31, 2021)

 

Identifiable Finite-lived Intangible Assets

Intangible assets are stated at cost net of accumulated amortization and impairment. Finite-lived intangible assets includes customer relationships, technology know how, software, noncompete agreements, order backlog, and trade name. The fair value for intangible assets acquired through acquisitions is measured at the time of acquisition utilizing the following inputs, as needed:

 

1.

Inputs used to measure fair value are unadjusted quotequoted prices available in active markets for the identical assets or liabilities if available.

 

2.

Inputs used to measure fair value, other than quoted prices included in 1, are either directly or indirectly observable as of the reporting date through correlation with market data, including quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets and quoted prices in inactive markets. This includes assets and liabilities valued using models or other pricing methodologies that do not require significant judgment since the input assumptions used in the models, such as interest rates and volatility factors, are corroborated by readily observable data from actively quoted markets for substantially the full life of the asset.

 

3.

Inputs used to measure fair value are unobservable inputs supported by little or no market activity and reflect the use of significant management judgment. These values are generally determined using pricing models for which the assumptions utilize management’s estimates of market participant assumptions.

 

4.

Expert appraisal and fair value measurement as completed by third-partythird-party experts.

 

Estimated

Useful

Life (in years)

Finite-lived intangible assets

Order backlog

1

Customer Relationships- Front Line Power Construction

15

Trade name - Reach Construction Group

1

Customer relationships - Reach Construction Group, LLC

5

Non-compete agreements - Reach Construction Group, LLC

5

Customer Relationships - Gibson Technical Services

10

Customer Relationships - IMMCO

10

Technology- Know How

3

Non-compete agreements-GTS

5

Software, at cost

3 to 5

The Company amortizes the intangible assets that are subject to amortization on a straight line basis, which the company believes approximates the estimated consumption of their economic benefits. Intangible assets are reviewed for impairment and tested for recoverability whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. For instance, a significant change in business climate or a loss of a significant customer, among other things, may trigger the need for impairment testing of intangible assets. An impairment loss is recognized if the carrying amount of an intangible asset is not recoverable and its carrying amount exceeds its fair value.

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 The following are the estimated useful life for the intangible assets:

  

Estimated

 
  

Useful

 
  

Life (in years)

 

Finite-lived intangible assets

     

Order backlog

  2  

Trade name - Orbital

  10  

Customer list - Orbital

  10  

Technology rights

  20 (1)  

Technology-Based Asset - Know How

  12  

Technology-Based Asset - Software

  10  

Software, at cost

  3to5 

(1)

Technology rights are amortized over a 20-year life or the term of the rights agreement.

Indefinite-Lived Intangibles and Goodwill Assets

The Company accounts for business combinations under the acquisition method of accounting in accordance with ASC 805, ‘‘Business Combinations,’’ where the total purchase price is allocated to the tangible and identified intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair values. The purchase price is allocated using the information currently available, and may be adjusted, up to one year from acquisition date, after obtaining more information regarding, among other things, asset valuations, liabilities assumed and revisions to preliminary estimates. The purchase price in excess of the fair value of the tangible and identified intangible assets acquired less liabilities assumed is recognized as goodwill.  The unit of accounting for goodwill is at a level of the entity referred to as a reporting unit. Goodwill is assigned to specific reporting units for purposes of the impairment assessments. As of December 31, 2021, the Company has five operating segments that are also considered reporting units for goodwill impairment testing. The five operating segments are, Front Line Power Construction, LLC, Orbital Power Inc., Eclipse Foundation Group, Orbital Solar Services, Gibson Technical Services, which includes  IMMCO, Inc. and Full Moon Telecom, LLC.

 

2019Annual Test. The Company tests for impairment of indefinite-lived intangibles and Goodwill impairments

Inin the fourthsecond quarter of 2019,each year and whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of Goodwill exceeds its fair value and may not be recoverable. The Company’s qualitative assessment for indefinite-lived assets at May 31, 2021, followed the guidance in ASC 350-30-35-18A and 18B. In addition, since the May 31st assessment was the first year following the acquisition of Orbital Solar Services, the Company determined that itelected to perform a third-party quantitative review. Following the quantitative and qualitative review, no impairment was more likely than identified.

Under current accounting guidance, the Company is not that required to calculate the fair value of its goodwill at CUI-Canada and CUI Japan was less than its carrying amounts. The Company hired a third-party valuation expert to performreporting unit unless the entity determines, based on a valuation and it was determined that the remaining goodwill held by CUI-Canada and CUI Japan should be written down to zero. With those write downs, the Company does not have any remaining goodwill on any of its subsidiaries.

2018 Goodwill impairments

During our review of Goodwill as of May 31, 2018, the Company determined that there were indicators present to suggestqualitative assessment, that it wasis more likely than not that theits fair value of the Orbital-UK reporting unit was less than its carrying amount.

The significant changes for the Orbital-UK reporting unit included a decline in the 2018 actual revenue, operating income and cash flows compared to prior forecasts for the same period and a negative change in the 2018 forecasted revenue, operating income and cash flows for the remainder of the year due in part to the longer than expected temporary halt in shipping of its GasPT product to a major customer in Italy and market uncertainty due to the continuing effects of Brexit.

The Company performed a quantitative test for the Orbital-UK reporting unit, which resulted in an impairment for the Orbital-UK reporting unit, and the Company recorded a Goodwill impairment charge of $1.3 million during the second quarter of 2018.

December 2018 Interim Test. During the fourth quarter of 2018, the Company determined that there were additional indicators present to suggest that it was more likely than not that the fair value of the Orbital-UK reporting unit wasis less than its carrying amount. The significantguidance includes a number of factors to consider in conducting the qualitative assessment. The Company tests for goodwill impairment in the second quarter of each year and whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value and may not be recoverable.

As detailed in ASC 350-20-35-3A, in performing its testing for Goodwill and indefinite lived intangible as of May 31,2021, for the Orbital-UKGTS reporting unit, subsequentmanagement completed a qualitative analysis to determine whether it was more likely than not that the annual goodwill impairment test performed asfair value of May 31, 2018 were driven by a slower recoveryreporting unit is less than what was originally forecasted. Actual GasPT revenue continuedits carrying amount, including Goodwill. To complete the qualitative review, management follows the steps in ASC 350-20-35-3C to lag behind forecasted revenue as acceptanceevaluate the fair values of the technology continuedGoodwill and indefinite lived intangible and considers all known events and circumstances that might trigger an impairment of Goodwill or the indefinite lived intangible. At interim dates, the Company reviewed for triggering events. The Company did not identify any triggering events and no impairments to be slower than anticipated and continued delays associated with existing customer contracts that had not yet resumed. This slower than expected recovery, led to lower 2018 revenue, operating income and cash flows than originally forecasted.goodwill or indefinite lived assets were recorded.

 

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As a result of its analysis, the Company performed another quantitative test of goodwill, which resulted in further impairment for the Orbital-UK reporting unit, and the Company recorded a goodwill impairment charge of $3.1 million during the fourth quarter of 2018, to write-off the remaining Energy segment goodwill. In addition, the reporting units in the discontinued Power and Electromechanical segment were also tested for impairment due to the overall decrease in market capitalization experienced in 2018, with no impairment required.

December 2017 Interim Test. During the fourth quarter of 2017, the Company determined that there were indicators present to suggest that it was more likely than not that the fair value of the Orbital-UK reporting unit was less than its carrying amount. The significant changes for the Orbital-UK reporting unit subsequent to the annual goodwill impairment test performed as of May 31, 2017 included a decline in the 2017 actual revenue, operating income and cash flows compared to previously forecasted results and a decline in the 2018 forecasted revenue, operating income and cash flows due in part to the longer than expected halt in shipping of its GasPT product to a major customer in Italy and market uncertainty due to the continuing effects of Brexit.

The Company performed a quantitative analysis. As a result of the analysis, the Company concluded that the carrying value of the Orbital-UK reporting unit exceeded its estimated fair value. The quantitative test for the Orbital-UK reporting unit resulted in an impairment for the Orbital-UK reporting unit, and the Company recorded a goodwill impairment charge of $3.2 million during the fourth quarter of 2017.

Accrued expenses

Accrued expenses are liabilities that reflect expenses on the statement of operations that have not been paid or recorded in accounts payable at the end of the period. At December 31, 20192021 and December 31, 2018,2020, accrued expenses of $5.2$28.3 million and $1.9$4.4 million, respectively included $1.1 million and $0.9 million, respectively, of accrued compensation and $0.2 million and $0.1 million, respectively, of accrued inventory payable. In addition, at December 31, 2019, accrued expenses included a $2.8 million working capital adjustment on the sale of the domestic power business to Bel Fuse Inc that was paid out in January 2020.following components:

 

Derivative instruments

The Company uses various derivative instruments including forward currency contracts, and interest rate swaps to manage certain exposures. These instruments are entered into under the Company’s corporate risk management policy to minimize exposure and are not for speculative trading purposes. The Company recognizes all derivatives as either assets or liabilities in the consolidated balance sheet and measures those instruments at fair value. Changes in the fair value of derivatives are recognized in earnings. The Company has limited involvement with derivative instruments and does not trade them. From time to time, the Company may enter into foreign currency exchange contracts to minimize the risk associated with foreign currency exchange rate exposure from expected future cash flows. The Company had entered into one interest rate swap, which had a maturity date of ten years from the date of inception, and was used to minimize the interest rate risk on the variable rate mortgage. During the years ended 2018 and 2017, the Company had a non-cash gain and unrealized gains of $129 thousand and $111 thousand, respectively, related to the derivative liabilities. During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company paid $227 thousand to close out the interest rate swap in conjunction with the repayment of the related variable rate mortgage.

(In thousands)

 

As of December 31,

 
  

2021

  

2020

 

Accrued compensation

 $6,369  $1,180 

Working capital adjustment on Front Line Power Construction acquisition

  14,092   0 

Accrued interest

  2,902   200 

Accrued taxes payable

  102   83 

Other accrued expenses

  4,836   2,909 

Total accrued expense

 $28,301  $4,372 

 

Derivative Liabilities

Financial instrument liability

The Company evaluates embedded conversion features pursuant to FASB Accounting Standards Codification No.815 (‘‘FASB ASC 815’’), ‘‘Derivatives and Hedging,’’ which requires a periodic valuation of the fair value of derivative instruments and a corresponding recognition of liabilities associated with such derivatives. The Company has limited involvement with derivative instruments and does not trade them. Prior to 2019, In November 2021, the Company had an interest rate swap, which hadidentified a maturity datesubscription agreement with lenders of ten yearsthe $105 million syndicated debt agreement as a free standing financial instrument since it is legally separate from the date of inception, and was used to minimizecredit agreement. The subscription provides the interest rate risk on the variable rate mortgage. The Company closed out this derivative in December 2018 as partlenders with shares of the Company's sale/leaseback transaction common stock, which was recorded by the Company as additional debt discount to be amortized over the life of the loan. The subscription agreement also provided the lenders with protection from downside risk in the event that the Company issues shares prior to paying off the Front Line seller notes at a price lower than the price when the shares were issued to the lenders. This financial instrument liability was recorded by the Company at $0.9 million and was valued at loan inception on November 17, 2021 using the Black Scholes option pricing model. The value of the liability decreased to $0.8 million as of December 31, 2021 and the difference was recorded as income in other income for the fourth quarter of 2021. The Company has did not owned own any derivative instruments in 2019.2020.

 

6563

Stock-Based Compensation

The Company records its stock-based compensation expense under its stock option plans and also issues stock for services. The Company accounts for stock-based compensation using FASB Accounting Standards Codification No.718 (‘‘FASB ASC 718’’), ‘‘Compensation – Stock Compensation.’’ FASB ASC 718 requires the fair value of all stock-based employee compensation awarded to employees to be recorded as an expense over the related service period.

 

Stock bonuses and restricted stock units ("RSU"s) issued to employees are recorded at fair value using the market price of the stock on the date of grant and expensed over the service period or immediately if fully vested on date of issuance. Employee stock options are recorded at fair value using the Black-Scholes or binomial option pricing model. The underlying assumptions used in the Black-Scholes and binomial option pricing modelmodels used by the Company are taken from publicly available sources including: (1)(1) volatility and grant date stock price, which are sourced from historic stock price information; (2)(2) the appropriate discount rates are sourced from the United States Federal Reserve; and (3)(3) other inputs are determined based on previous experience and related estimates. With regards to expected volatility, the Company utilizes an appropriate period for historical share prices for CUI GlobalOrbital Energy Group that best reflect the expected volatility for determining the fair value of its stock options.

 

See Note 10 Stockholders' Equity for additional disclosure and discussion of the employee stock plan and activity.

 

Common stock and stock options are also recorded on the basis of their fair value, as required by FASB ASC 505,718, which is measured as of the date required by FASB ASC 505, ‘‘Equity – Based Payments to Non-Employees.’’718. In accordance with FASB ASC 505,718, the stock options or common stock warrants are valued using the Black-Scholes or binomial option pricing model on the basis of the market price of the underlying common stock on the ‘‘valuation date,’’ which for options and warrants related to contracts that have substantial disincentives to non-performance is the date of the contract, and for all other contracts is the performance completion date. Expense related to the options and warrants is recognized on a straight-line basis over the shorter of the period over which services are to be received or the vesting period. Where expense must be recognized prior to a valuation date, the expense is computed based off an estimate of the fair value of the stock award as valued under the Black-Scholes option pricing model on the basis of the market price of the underlying common stock at the end of the period, and any subsequent changes in the market price of the underlying common stock up through the valuation date is reflected in the expense recorded in the subsequent period in which that change occurs.

 

Common stock issued to other than employees or directors subject to performance (performance based awards) require interpretation to include ASC 505-50-30-13 as to when the counterparty’s performance is complete based on delivery, or other relevant performance criteria in accordance with the relevant agreement. When performance is complete, the common stock is issued and the expense recorded on the basis of their value as required by FASB ASC 505718 on the date the performance requirement is achieved.

 

Defined Contribution Plans

The Company has a 401(k)401(k) retirement savings plan that allows employees to contribute to the plan after they have completed 60 days of service and are 18 years of age. The Company matches the employee's contribution up to 6% of total compensation. GTS, Orbital Gas Systems, North America,Power, Inc., Orbital Solar Services, Front Line Power Construction, LLC, Eclipse Foundation, and CUI GlobalCorporate made total employer contributions, net of forfeitures, of $0.2 million, $0.1$0.6 million and $74 thousand$0.3 million for 2019, 20182021 and 2017,2020, respectively. In addition, in 2021 and 2020, the Company made contributions of $0.3 million, $0.4 million,$72 thousand and $0.3 million$145 thousand, respectively, associated with discontinued operations.

 

Revenue Recognition

On January 1, 2018, we adopted the accounting standard ASC 606, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers” and all the related amendments (“new revenue standard"), which supersedes nearly all existing revenue recognition guidance under U.S. GAAP. This guidance includes the required steps to achieve the core principle that a company should recognize revenue when it transfers promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The new revenue standard was applied using the modified retrospective method. We recognized the cumulative effect of initially applying the new revenue standard as an adjustment to accumulated deficit as of January 1, 2018. As a result of the adoption of this standard, certain changes have been made to the consolidated balance sheets. We expect the ongoing impact of the adoption of the new standard to primarily affect the timing of revenue recognition. For the majority of contracts, revenue is still measured over time using the cost-to-cost method. The change that most affected the transition adjustment on revenue was the requirement to limit revenue recognition on contracts without an enforceable right to payment for performance completed to date. Revenue on contracts without a specific enforceable right to payment on work performed to date was "clawed back" as part of the Company's transition adjustment. The cumulative effect adjustment recorded as of January 1, 2018 was a net $1.9 million decrease to accumulated deficit due to a $2.8 million transition adjustment from the discontinued Power and Electromechanical segment partially offset by a $(0.9) million transition adjustment from the Energy segment, net of deferred tax.

 

6664

On January 1, 2018, we adopted ASC Topic 606 and the related amendments ("ASC 606") using the modified retrospective method applied to those contracts which were not completed as of December 31, 2017. Results for operating periods beginning after January 1, 2018 are presented under ASC 606, while comparative information has not been restated for 2017 and continues to be reported in accordance with the accounting standards in effect for those periods. The adoption of ASC 606 had no impact on the Company’s cash flows from operations.

Revenue Recognition

The EnergyElectric Power segment subsidiaries, collectively referred to as Orbital Gas Systems (Orbital), generate their revenue from a portfolio of products, servicesprovides full service building, maintenance and resources that offer a diverse range of personalized gas engineering solutionssupport to the gas utilities,electrical power distribution, transmission, substation, and emergency response sectors of North America through Front Line Power, Orbital Power Services and  Eclipse Foundation. The Telecommunications segment composed of Gibson Technical Services and subsidiaries provides technical implementation, design, maintenance, emergency and repair support services in the broadband, wireless, and outside plant and building technologies.  The Renewables segment, Orbital Solar Services, provides engineering, procurement and construction (“EPC”) services that support the development of renewable energy generation petrochemical, emissions, manufacturingfocused on utility scale solar and automotive industries, among others.

Orbital accounts for a majority of its contract revenue proportionately over time. For our performance obligations satisfied over time, we recognize revenue by measuring the progress toward complete satisfaction of that performance obligation. The selection of the method to measure progress towards completion can be either an input method or an output method and requires judgment based on the nature of the goods or services to be provided.community solar construction.

 

For our construction contracts, revenue is generally recognized over time. Our fixed price and unit-price construction projects generally use a cost-to-cost input method or an output method to measure our progress towards complete satisfaction of the performance obligation as we believe it best depicts the transfer of control to the customer. Under the cost-to-cost measure of progress, the extent of progress towards completion is measured based on the ratio of costs incurred to date to the total estimated costs at completion of the performance obligation. Under the output method, progress towards completion is measured based on units of work completed based on the contractual pricing amounts.  Under the output method, revenue is determined by actual work achieved. For jobs under the output method, revenue is earned based on each unit in the contract completed. We construct comprehensive revenue calculations based on quantifiable measures of actual units completed multiplied by the agreed upon contract prices per item completed. Revenue is also generally recognized over time as the customer simultaneously receives and consumes the benefits of our performance as we perform the service.

 

The timing of revenue recognition for Energy products also depends on the payment terms of the contract, as our performance does not create an asset with an alternative use to us. For those contracts where the Company's performance creates or enhances an asset that the customer controls as the asset is created or enhanced or for which we have a right to payment for performance completed to date at all times throughout our performance, inclusive of a cancellation, we recognize revenue over time. As discussed above, these performance obligations use a cost-to-cost input method or output method to measure our progress towards complete satisfaction of the performance obligation as we believe it best depicts the transfer of control to the customer. However, for those contracts for which we do not have a right, at all times, to payment for performance completed to date and we are not enhancing a customer-controlled asset, we recognize revenue at the point in time when control is transferred to the customer, generally  when shipped.customer. 

 

For our service contracts, revenue is also generally recognized over time as the customer simultaneously receives and consumes the benefits of our performance as we perform the service. For our fixed price service contracts with specified service periods, revenue is generally recognized on a straight-line basis over such service period when our inputs are expended evenly, and the customer receives and consumes the benefits of our performance throughout the contract term.

 

For certain of our revenue streams, such as call-out repair and service work, and outage services, that are performed under time and materials contracts, our progress towards complete satisfaction of such performance obligations is measured using an outputinput method as the customer receives and consumes the benefits of our performance completed to date.

 

Due to uncertainties inherent in the estimation process, it is possible that estimates of costs to complete a performance obligation will be revised in the near-term. For those performance obligations for which revenue is recognized using a cost-to-cost input method, changes in total estimated costs, and related progress towards complete satisfaction of the performance obligation, are recognized on a cumulative catch-up basis in the period in which the revisions to the estimates are made. When the current estimate of total costs for a performance obligation indicateindicates a loss, a provision for the entire estimated loss on the unsatisfied performance obligation is made in the period in which the loss becomes evident.

 

6765

Product-type contracts (for example, sale of GasPT units) for which revenue does not qualify to be recognized over time are recognized at a point in time. Revenues from extended warranty and maintenance activities are recognized ratably over the term of the warranty and maintenance period.

Accounts Receivable, Contract Assets and Contract Liabilities

Accounts receivable are recognized in the period when our right to consideration is unconditional. We also assess our customers' ability and intention to pay, which is based on a variety of factors, including our historical payment experience with and the financial condition of our customers. Payment terms and conditions vary by contract, althoughand are within industry standards across our standard terms include a requirement of payment within 30 days.business lines. Accounts receivable are recognized net of an allowance for doubtful accounts.

 

The timing of revenue recognition may differ from the timing of invoicing to customers. Contract assets include unbilled amounts from our construction projects when revenue recognized under the output method or the input cost-to-cost measure of progressmethod exceed the amounts invoiced to our customers, as the amounts cannot be billed under the terms of our contracts. Such amounts are recoverable from our customers based upon various measures of performance, including achievement of certain milestones, completion of specified units or completion of a contract. Also included in contract assets are retainage receivables and amounts we seek or will seek to collect from customers or others for errors or changes in contract specifications or design, contract change orders or modifications in dispute or unapproved as to both scope and/or price or other customer-related causes of unanticipated additional contract costs (claims and unapproved change orders). Our contract assets do not include capitalized costs to obtain and fulfill a contract. Contract assets are generally classified as current within the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

 

Contract liabilities from our construction contracts occur when amounts invoiced to our customers exceed revenues recognized under the input cost-to-cost measureor output method of progress. Contract liabilities additionally include advanced payments from our customers on certain contracts.contracts and provision for future contract losses for those contracts estimated to close in a gross loss position. Contract liabilities decrease as we recognize revenue from the satisfaction of the related performance obligation and are recorded as either current or long-term, depending upon when we expect to recognize such revenue.

 

Balances and activity in the current contract liabilities as of and for the years ended December 31, 2019 2021 and 20182020 is as follows:

 

(In thousands)

 

As of December 31,

  

As of January 1,

 
  

2018

  

2018

 

Current contract liabilities

 $1,956  $4,386 

Long-term contract liabilities (1)

  129   84 

Total contract liabilities

 $2,085  $4,470 
  

For the Year Ended December 31,

 
  

2021

  

2020

 

Total contract liabilities - January 1

 $4,873  $0 

Contract liability additions acquired through acquisition

  100   3,349 

Contract additions, net

  6,371   1,524 

Contract settlements

  (3,140)  0 

Revenue recognized

  (1,701)  0 

Total contract liabilities - December 31

 $6,503  $4,873 

 

  

For the Year Ended December 31,

 
  

2019

  

2018

 

Total contract liabilities - January 1

 $2,085  $4,470 

Contract additions, net

  1,763   1,940 

Revenue recognized

  (2,016

)

  (4,123

)

Translation

  28   (202

)

Total contract liabilities - December 31

 $1,860  $2,085 

  

As of December 31,

 
  

2019

  

2018

 

Current contract liabilities

 $1,668  $1,956 

Long-term contract liabilities (1)

  192   129 

Total contract liabilities

 $1,860  $2,085 

(1) Long-term contract liabilities are included in Other long-term liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

 

6866

Performance Obligations

Remaining Performance Obligations

Remaining performance obligations, represents the transaction price of contracts with customers for which work has not been performed and excludes unexercised contract options and potential orders under ordering-type contracts. As of December 31, 2019,2021, the Company's remaining performance obligations are generally expected to be filled within the next 12 months. For the contracts that are greater than 12 months the Company has approximately $121.0 million in the aggregate of remaining performance obligations that are unsatisfied or partially unsatisfied as of December 31, 2021.  

 

Any adjustments to net revenues, cost of revenues, and the related impact to operating income are recognized as necessary in the period they become known. These adjustments may result from positive program performance, and may result in an increase in operating income during the performance of individual performance obligations, if we determine we will be successful in mitigating risks surrounding the technical, schedule and cost aspects of those performance obligations. Likewise, these adjustments may result in a decrease in operating income if we determine we will not be successful in mitigating these risks. Changes in estimates of net revenues, cost of revenues and the related impact to operating income are recognized on a cumulative catch-up basis in the period they become known, which recognizes in the current period the cumulative effect of the changes on current and prior periods based on a performance obligation's percentage of completion. A significant change in one or more of these estimates could affect the profitability of one or more of our performance obligations. For separately priced extended warranty or product maintenance performance obligations, when estimates of total costs to be incurred on the performance obligation exceed total estimates of revenue to be earned, a provision for the entire loss on the performance obligation is recognized in the period the loss is determined.

 

Performance Obligations Satisfied Over Time

To determine the proper revenue recognition method for our contracts satisfied over time, we evaluate whether a single contract should be accounted for as more than one performance obligation. This evaluation requires significant judgment and the decision to separate the single contract into multiple performance obligations could change the amount of revenue and profit recorded in a given period.

 

For most of our contracts, the customer contracts with us to provide a significant service of integrating a complex set of tasks and components into a single project or capability (even if that single project results in the delivery of multiple units). Hence, the entire contract is accounted for as one performance obligation. Less commonly, however, we may promise to provide distinct goods or services within a contract in which case we separate the contract into more than one performance obligation. If a contract is separated into more than one performance obligation, we allocate the total transaction price to each performance obligation in an amount based on the estimated relative standalone selling prices of the promised goods or services underlying each performance obligation. We infrequently sell standard products with observable standalone sales. In cases where we do, the observable standalone sales are used to determine the standalone selling price. More frequently, we sell a customized customer specific solution, and in these cases we typically use the output method or the expected cost plus a margin approach to estimate the standalone selling price of each performance obligation.

 

Performance Obligations Satisfied at a Point in Time.

Revenue from goods and services transferred to customers at a single point in time accounted for 29% and 22% of revenues for the year ended December 31, 2019 and 2018. Revenue on these contracts is recognized when the product is shipped and the customer takes ownership of the product. Determination of control transfer is determined by shipping terms delineated on the customer purchase orders and is generally when shipped.

Variable Consideration

The nature of our contracts gives rise to several types of variable consideration, including new product returns and scrap return allowances primarily in the discontinued operations of Power and Electromechanical segment.consideration. In rare instances, in our Energy segment, we include in our contract estimates, additional revenue for submitted contract modifications or claims against the customer when we believe we have an enforceable right to the modification or claim, the amount can be estimated reliably and its realization is probable. In evaluating these criteria, we consider the contractual/legal basis for the claim, the cause of any additional costs incurred, the reasonableness of those costs and the objective evidence available to support the claim. We include new product introduction and scrap return estimates in our calculation of net revenue when there is a basis to reasonably estimate the amount of the returns. These estimates are based on historical return experience, anticipated returns and our best judgment at the time. These amounts are included in our calculation of net revenue recorded for our contracts and the associated remaining performance obligations. Additionally, if the contract has a provision for liquidated damages in the case that the Company misses a timing target, or fails to meet any other contract benchmarks, the Company accounts for those estimated liquidated damages as variable consideration and will adjust revenue accordingly with periodic updates to the estimated variable consideration as the job progresses. Liquidated damages are recognized as variable consideration and are estimated based on the most likely amount that is deemed probable of realization.

 

Significant Judgments

Our contracts with certain customers may be subject to contract cancellation clauses. Contracts with other cancellation provisions may require judgment in determining the contract term, including the existence of material rights, transaction price and identifying the performance obligations and whether a contract should be accounted for over time or on a completed contract basis. Revenue is recognized for certain integration systemsprojects over time using cost-based input methods, in which significant judgement is required to evaluate assumptions including the amount of total estimated costs to determine our progress towards contract completion and to calculate the corresponding amount of revenue to recognize.

 

At times, customers may request changes that either amend, replace or cancel existing contracts. Judgment is required to determine whether the specific facts and circumstances within the contracts require the changes to be accounted for as a separate contract or as a modification. Generally, contract modifications containing additional goods and services that are determined to be distinct and sold at their stand-alone selling price are accounted for as a separate contract. For contract modifications where goods and services are not determined to be distinct and sold at their stand-alone selling price, the original contract is updated and the required adjustments to revenue and contract assets, liabilities, and other accounts will be made accordingly.

 

Our contracts with customers often include promises to transfer multiple products and services to a customer. Determining whether products and services are considered distinct performance obligations that should be accounted for separately rather than together may require significant judgment. For, example, we consider many of our contracts that coordinate multiple products into an integrated system to be a single performance obligation, while the same products would be considered separate performance obligations if not so integrated.

 

In contracts where there are timing differences between when we transfer a promised good or service to the customer and when the customer pays for that good or service, we have determined that, our contracts do not include a significant financing component.

 

6967

The following table presents our revenues disaggregated by timing of revenue recognition for the year ended December 31, 2019 and 2018:recognition:

 

(In thousands)

 

For the Year Ended December 31, 2021

     
  

Telecommunications

  

Electric Power

  

Renewables

  

Total

 

Revenues recognized at point in time

 $1,812  $0  $0  $1,812 

Revenues recognized over time

  25,987   43,599   11,550   81,136 

Total revenues

 $27,799  $43,599  $11,550  $82,948 

 

  

For the Year Ended December 31,

 

(In thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

 
         

Revenues recognized at point in time

 $6,800  $4,391 

Revenues recognized over time

  16,692   15,951 

Total revenues

 $23,492  $20,342 

(In thousands)

 

For the Year Ended December 31, 2020

     
  

Telecommunications

  

Electric Power

  

Renewables

  

Total

 

Revenues recognized at point in time

 $0  $0  $0  $0 

Revenues recognized over time

  0   8,482   13,005   21,487 

Total revenues

 $0  $8,482  $13,005  $21,487 

 

The following table presents our revenues disaggregated by region for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018:region:

 

 

For the Year Ended December 31,

 

(In thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

For the Year Ended December 31, 2021

    
         

Telecommunications

  

Electric Power

  

Renewables

  

Total

 

North America

 $9,654  $4,311  $25,446  $43,599  $11,550  $80,595 

Europe

  13,733   15,620 

Asia

  42   205 

Other

  63   206   2,353   0   0   2,353 

Total revenues

 $23,492  $20,342  $27,799  $43,599  $11,550  $82,948 

 

Revenue Recognition - 2017

As discussed above, ASC 606 was adopted on a modified retrospective basis and accordingly the 2017 financial statements were not restated for ASC 606. For 2017, revenue was recognized as follows.

For production-type contracts meeting the Company’s minimum threshold, revenues and related costs on these contracts were recognized using the ‘‘percentage of completion method’’ of accounting in accordance with ASC 605-35, Accounting for Performance of Construction-Type and Certain Production Type Contracts (‘‘ASC 605-35’’). Under this method, contract revenues and related expenses were recognized over the performance period of the contract in direct proportion to the costs incurred as a percentage of total estimated costs for the entirety of the contract. Costs included direct material, direct labor, subcontract labor and any allocable indirect costs. The Company captured certain job costs as work progressed, including labor, material and costs not invoiced. Margin adjustments were made as information pertaining to contracts changed. All un-allocable indirect costs and corporate general and administrative costs were charged to the periods as incurred. The amount of costs not invoiced were captured to ensure an estimated margin consistent with that expected at the completion of the project. In the event a loss on a contract was foreseen, the Company recognized the loss when it was determined. Contract costs plus recognized profits were accumulated as deferred assets, and billings and/or cash received were recorded to a deferred revenue liability account. The net of these two accounts for any individual project was presented as ‘‘Costs in excess of billings,’’ an asset account, or ‘‘Billings in excess of costs,’’ a liability account.

Production-type contracts that did not qualify for use of the percentage of completion method were accounted for using the ‘‘completed contract method’’ of accounting in accordance with ASC 605-35-25-57. Under this method, contract costs were accumulated as deferred assets, and billings and/or cash received was recorded to a deferred revenue liability account, during the periods of construction, but no revenues, costs, or profits were recognized in operations until the period within which completion of the contract occurred. A contract was considered complete when all costs except insignificant items were incurred; the equipment was operating according to specifications and was accepted by the customer.

(In thousands)

 

For the Year Ended December 31, 2020

     
  

Telecommunications

  

Electric Power

  

Renewables

  

Total

 

North America

 $0  $8,482  $13,005  $21,487 

Total revenues

 $0  $8,482  $13,005  $21,487 

 

70
68

For product sales, revenue was recognized in the period when persuasive evidence of an arrangement with a customer existed, the products were shipped and title had transferred to the customer, the price was fixed or determinable, and collection was reasonably assured.

Revenues from warranty and maintenance activities were recognized ratably over the term of the warranty and maintenance period and the unrecognized portion was recorded as deferred revenue.

Advertising

The costs incurred for producing and communicating advertising are charged to operations as incurred. Advertising expense for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 2021 and 20172020 were $0.4 million, $0.6$0.5 million and $0.5 million,$41 thousand, respectively.

 

Income Taxes

Income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method of FASB Accounting Standards Codification No.740 (‘‘FASB ASC 740’’), ‘‘Income Taxes.’’ Under FASB ASC 740, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. 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 as income in the period that includes the enactment date. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance to the extent that management believes it is more likely than not that such deferred tax assets will not be realized.

 

Valuation allowances have been established against all domestic based deferred tax assets and U.K. based deferred tax assets due to uncertainties in the Company’s ability to generate sufficient taxable income in future periods to make realization of such assets more likely than not. In future periods, tax benefits and related domestic and U.K. deferred tax assets will be recognized when management considers realization of such amounts to be more likely than not. In addition, the Company has provided for a partial valuation allowance in Canada. The Company has not provided for valuation allowances on deferred tax assets in any other jurisdiction.

 

The Company recognizes interest and penalties, if any, related to its tax positions in income tax expense.

 

CUI GlobalOrbital Energy Group files consolidated income tax returns with its U.S. based subsidiaries for federal and many state jurisdictions in addition to separate subsidiary income tax returns in Japan, the United Kingdom and Canada. After the sale of CUI Japan in September 2020, and the final disposition of CUI-Canada assets and liabilities, the Company will only be required to file returns in the U.S. and the United Kingdom. As of December 31, 2019,2021, the Company is not under examination by any income tax jurisdiction. The Company is no longer subject to USAU.S. examination for years prior to 2015.2017.

 

Net Loss per Share

In accordance with FASB Accounting Standards Codification No.260 (‘‘FASB ASC 260’’), ‘‘Earnings per Share,’’ basic net loss per share is computed by dividing the net loss available to common stockholders for the period by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted net loss per share is computed by dividing net loss available to common stockholders by the weighted average number of diluted shares outstanding during the period calculated using the treasury stock method. Due to the Company’s net loss in 2019, 20182021 and 2017,2020, the assumed exercise of stock options using the treasury stock method would have had an antidilutive effect and therefore all options for each of the threetwo years were excluded from the calculation of diluted net loss per share. Accordingly, diluted net loss per share is the same as basic net loss per share for 2019, 20182021 and 2017. The weighted average shares outstanding included 37,312; 1,844 and 63,602 of shares that are considered outstanding, but unissued as of December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively, for shares to be issued in accordance with a royalty agreement pertaining to sales of the GasPT devices and unpaid equity share bonuses in 2017.2020.

 

7169

The following table summarizes the number of stock options outstanding excluding amounts applicable to contingent conversion option in 2018 and 2017:outstanding:

 

  

As of December 31,

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

2017

 

Options, outstanding

  849,635   923,898   964,180 
  

As of December 31,

 
  

2021

  

2020

 

Options, outstanding

  237,985   790,648 

 

Any common shares issued as a result of stock options would come from newly issued common shares as granted under our equity incentive plans.

 

The following is the calculation of basic and diluted earnings per share:

 

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

  

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

(In thousands, except dollars per share)

 

2019

  

2018

  

2017

  

2021

  

2020

 

Continuing operations:

             

Loss from continuing operations, net of income taxes

 $(13,626

)

 $(21,324

)

 $(13,945

)

 $(49,843) $(25,702)

Discontinued operations:

             

Income from discontinued operations, net of income taxes

  12,497   3,999   1,356   (11,371)  (1,745)

Net loss

 $(1,129

)

 $(17,325

)

 $(12,589

)

 $(61,214) $(27,447)
             

Basic and diluted weighted average number of shares outstanding

  28,654,500   28,517,339   22,397,865  58,348,489  29,937,863 
             

Loss from continuing operations per common share - basic and diluted

 $(0.48

)

 $(0.75

)

 $(0.62

)

 $(0.86) $(0.86)

Earnings from discontinued operations - basic and diluted

  0.44   0.14   0.06   (0.19)  (0.06)

Loss per common share - basic and diluted

 $(0.04

)

 $(0.61

)

 $(0.56

)

 $(1.05) $(0.92)

 

Foreign Currency Translation

The financial statements of the Company's foreign offices have been translated into U.S. dollars in accordance with FASB ASC 830, ‘‘Foreign Currency Matters’’ (FASB ASC 830)830). All balance sheet accounts have been translated using the exchange rate in effect at the balance sheet date. Statement of Operations amounts have been translated using an appropriately weighted average exchange rate for the year. The translation gains and losses resulting from the changes in exchange rates during 2019, 20182021 and 20172020 have been reported in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), except for gains and losses resulting from the translation of short-term intercompany receivables and payables, which are included in earnings for the period.

 

Segment Reporting

Operating segments are defined in accordance with ASC 280-10280-10 as components of an enterprise for which separate financial information is available that is evaluated regularly by the chief operating decision maker, or decision-making group, in deciding how to allocate resources and in assessing performance. The measurement basis of segment profit or loss is income (loss) from operations. Management has identified threefive operating segments based on the activities of the Company in accordance with ASC 280-10.280-10. These operating segments have been aggregated into twothree reportable segments. The twothree reportable segments are EnergyElectric Power, Telecommunications, and Other.Renewables and an Other category. The EnergyElectric Power segment consists of Front Line Power Construction, LLC based in Houston, Texas, Orbital Power Services based in Dallas, Texas, and Eclipse Foundation Group based in Gonzales, Louisiana. The segment provides comprehensive solutions to customers in the electric power industries. Front Line Power, LLC is a Houston-based full-service electrical infrastructure service company that provides construction, maintenance, and emergency response services for customers since 2010. Services performed by Orbital Power Services generally include the design, installation, upgrade, repair and maintenance of electric power transmission and distribution infrastructure and substation facilities as well as emergency restoration services, including the repair of infrastructure damaged by inclement weather. Eclipse Foundation Group, which began operations in January 2021, is a drilled shaft foundation construction company that specializes in providing services to the electric transmission and substation, industrial, communication towers and disaster restoration market sectors, with expertise in water, marsh and rock terrains.

The Telecommunications segment is made up of Gibson Technical Services, Inc. (“GTS”) (acquired April 13, 2021) GTS is an Atlanta-based telecommunications company providing diversified telecommunications services nationally since 1990 and is the parent of the following companies:

o

IMMCO, Inc. (acquired July 28, 2021), which includes two Indian subsidiaries and is an Atlanta-based, full-service telecom engineering and network design company providing diversified engineering services and customized software solutions to a global customer base since 1992.

oFull Moon Telecom, LLC (acquired October 22, 2021) a Florida-based telecommunications services provider that offers an extensive array of wireless services capabilities and experience including Layer 2/Layer3 Transport, Radio Access Network ("RAN") Integrations, test and turn-up of Small Cell systems and Integration/Commissioning of Distributed Antenna ("DAS") systems.

The Renewables segment consists of Orbital Solar Services based in Sanford, North Carolina. Orbital Solar Services provides engineering, procurement and construction (“EPC”) services that support the development of renewable energy generation focused on the operationsutility-scale solar construction. The Company serves a wide variety of Orbital Gas Systems Ltd.project types, including commercial, substation, solar farms and Orbital Gas Systems, North America, Inc. which includes gas related test and measurement systems, including the GasPT. public utility projects.

The Other segment represents the remaining activities that are not included as partcategory is made up primarily of the other reportableCompany's corporate activities. This category does not include any operating segments and represent primarilydoes not generate revenue. In addition, Orbital’s integrated operations and common administrative support for its operating units require that certain allocations be made to determine segment profitability, including allocations of shared and indirect costs (e.g., insurance costs) and general and administrative costs such as stock bonuses, and professional fees, including audit fees. Certain corporate activity. In 2019, the Company sold its domestic powercosts are not allocated and electromechanical businessesinclude corporate employees’ salaries and reclassified the incomebenefits, Board of the former PowerDirector fees and Electromechanical segmentcosts, certain legal fees, due diligence costs related to income fromprospective acquisitions, and regulatory costs associated with being a publicly traded company. Unallocated corporate expenses and costs associated with discontinued operations. Unsold portions of the segment were reclassified to assets held for sale. Prior years have been reclassified to reflect this change, with assets held for saleoperations are included in the Otherall-other category.

 

7270

The following information represents segment activity as of and for the year ended December 31, 2021:

(In thousands)

 

Telecommunications

  

Electric Power

  

Renewables

  

Other

  

Total

 

Revenues from external customers

 $27,799  $43,599  $11,550  $0   82,948 

Depreciation and amortization (1)

  2,326   5,969   2,931   1,684   12,910 

Interest expense

  50   3,129   349   4,809   8,337 

Income (loss) from operations

  43   (13,215)  (19,043)  (20,576)  (52,791)

Segment assets (2)

  80,800   273,726   28,324   28,459   411,309 

Other intangibles assets, net

  28,571   106,377   7,708   0   142,656 

Goodwill

  23,742   70,151   7,006   0   100,899 

Expenditures for segment assets (3)

  1,615   5,905   118   846   8,484 

 

The following information represents segment activity as of and for the year ended December 31, 2019:2020:

 

(In thousands)

 

Energy

  

Other

  

Total

 

Revenues from external customers

 $23,492  $  $23,492 

Depreciation and amortization (1)

  1,520   841   2,361 

Interest expense

  52   9   61 

Loss from operations

  (8,615

)

  (7,430

)

  (16,045

)

Segment assets

  21,461   42,697   64,158 

Other intangibles assets, net

  4,276   22   4,298 

Expenditures for segment assets (2)

  135   539   674 

The following information represents segment activity as of and for the year ended December 31, 2018:

(In thousands)

 

Energy

  

Other

  

Total

 

Revenues from external customers

 $20,342  $  $20,342 

Depreciation and amortization (1)

  1,525   1,480   3,005 

Interest expense

  23   193   216 

Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets

  4,347      4,347 

Loss from operations

  (17,168

)

  (4,966

)

  (22,134

)

Segment assets

  19,034   51,133   70,167 

Other intangibles assets, net

  5,314   39   5,353 

Expenditures for segment assets (2)

  235   1,299   1,534 

The following information represents segment activity as of and for the year ended December 31, 2017:

(In thousands)

 

Energy

  

Other

  

Total

 

Revenues from external customers

 $18,843  $  $18,843 

Depreciation and amortization (1)

  1,345   1,505   2,850 

Interest expense

  1   200   201 

Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets

  3,152      3,152 

Loss from operations

  (11,366

)

  (4,939

)

  (16,305

)

Segment assets

  26,512   61,397   87,909 

Other intangibles assets, net

  6,669   59   6,728 

Goodwill

  4,549      4,549 

Expenditures for segment assets (2)

  576   955   1,531 

73

(In thousands)

 

Telecommunications

  

Electric Power

  

Renewables

  

Other

  

Total

 

Revenues from external customers

 $0  $8,482  $13,005  $0  $21,487 

Depreciation and amortization (1)

  0   433   3,278   1,530   5,241 

Interest expense

  0   18   332   948   1,298 

Loss from operations

  0   (4,942)  (5,479)  (11,610)  (22,031)

Segment assets (2)

  0   7,554   28,271   30,220   66,045 

Other intangibles assets, net

  0   0   10,550   3   10,553 

Goodwill

  0   0   7,006   0   7,006 

Expenditures for segment assets (3)

  0   1,567   17   123   1,707 

 

(1)(1)

For the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 2021 and 2017,2020, depreciation and amortization totals included $0.8 million, $1.5$1.6 million and $1.5 million, respectively that were classified in income from discontinued operations on the Consolidated Statements of Operations.Operations in the Other segment. For the year ended December 31,2021 depreciation and amortization totals included $0.4 million that was classified as cost of revenues in the Telecommunications segment, $4.0 million that was classified as cost of revenues in the Electric Power segment and $54 thousand that was classified as cost of revenue in the Renewables segment. For the year ended December 31,2020 depreciation and amortization totals included $0.4 million that was classified as cost of revenues in the Electric Power segment and $68 thousand that was classified as cost of revenue in the Renewables segment. 

(2)(2)

Other category includes assets held for sale of the discontinued Orbital Gas subsidiaries.

(3)Includes purchases of property plant and equipment and investment inpurchases of other intangible assets.

 

71

The following information represents revenue by country:

 

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

  

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

(In thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

2017

  

2021

  

2020

 

USA

 $9,654   41

%

 $4,311   21

%

 $3,158   17

%

 $80,595  97% $21,487  100%

United Kingdom

  13,391   57

%

  15,118   74

%

  14,479   77

%

All Others

  447   2

%

  913   5

%

  1,206   6

%

  2,353   3%  0   0%

Total

 $23,492   100

%

 $20,342   100

%

 $18,843   100

%

 $82,948   100% $21,487   100%

 

The following information representsCompany's long-lived assets (excluding deferred tax assets) by country:

  

As of December 31,

 

(In thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

 

USA

 $13,664  $23,544 

United Kingdom

  8,800   9,647 

Other

     1,495 
  $22,464  $34,686 

Reclassifications

Certain reclassifications primarily related to discontinued operations and assets and liabilities held for sale have been made toare located in the 2018 consolidated balance sheet, and 2018 and 2017 statements of operations in order to conform to the 2019 presentation.U.S.

 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In

Adoption of new accounting standards

On January 1, 2021, the Company adopted ASU No.2020-04, "Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848) - Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting." ASU 2020-04 provides optional expedients and exceptions related to contract modifications and hedge accounting to address the transitions from the London Interbank Offered Rate ("LIBOR") and other interbank offered rates to alternative reference rates. The guidance permits an entity to consider contract modification due to reference rate reform to be an event that does not require contract remeasurement at the modification date or reassessment of a previous accounting determination. ASU 2020-04 also temporarily allows hedge relationships to continue without de-designation upon changes due to reference rate reform. The standard is effective upon issuance and can be applied as of March 12, 2020 through December 31, 2022. There is not a material effect on the FASB issuedCompany's financial statements due to the Company not having any current financial instruments that are affected by this new guidance.

On January 1, 2021, the Company adopted ASU 2020-01,2020-01, Investments - Equity Securities (Topic 321)321), Investments - Equity Method and Joint Ventures (Topic 323)323), and Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815)815): Clarifying the Interactions between Topic 321, Topic 323, and Topic 815.ASU 2020-012020-01 clarifies the interaction between accounting standards related to equity securities, equity method investments, and certain derivatives, and is expected to reduce diversity in practice and increase comparability of the accounting for these interactions. The amendments in ASU 2020-012020-01 are effective for the Company's 2021 fiscal year, including interim periods. The Companynew guidance does not expect currently have a material impact of this ASU on itsthe Company's consolidated financial statements anddue to the Company currently expects to adopt the standard in 2021.not having any equity-method investments or any derivative instruments.

 

In December 2019, On January 1, 2021, the FASB issuedCompany adopted ASU 2019-12, 2019-12,Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes, which is guidance intended to simplify various aspects related to accounting for income taxes, eliminate certain exceptions within ASC 740 and clarify certain aspects of the current guidance to promote consistency among reporting entities. The pronouncement is effective for the Company's 2021 fiscal year, including interim periods. The CompanyASU does not expect have a material impact of this ASU on itsthe Company's consolidated financial statements and currently expects to adopt the standard in 2021.

In August 2018, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2018-15, Intangibles - Goodwill and Other - Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40): Customer’s Accounting for Implementation Costs Incurred in a Cloud Computing Arrangement That Is a Service Contract ("ASU 2018-15"). The amendments in ASU 2018-15 align the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred in a hosting arrangement that is a service contract with the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred to develop or obtain internal-use software (and hosting arrangements that include an internal use software license). The guidance will be effective for the fiscal year beginning after December 15, 2019, including interim periods within that year. The Company does not expect a material impact of this ASU on its consolidated financial statements and will adopt the standard in 2020.statements.

 

7472

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In August 2018,On October 28, 2021, the FASBFinancial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued ASU No. 2018-13,Accounting Standards Update ("ASU")  Fair Value Measurement2021-08, Business Combinations (Topic 820)805)Disclosure Framework - ChangesAccounting for Contract Assets and Contract Liabilities from Contracts with Customers. This guidance will require entities to the Disclosure Requirementsapply Topic 606 to recognize and measure contract assets and contract liabilities in a business combination. This standard was designed to provide consistent recognition and measurement guidance for Fair Value Measurement (“ASU 2018-13”).revenue contracts with customers. Legacy guidance requires entities to record contract assets and contract liabilities acquired to be recorded at fair value. The amendments in this update modify the disclosure requirements on fair value measurements in Topic 820, Fair Value Measurement, including requiring the disclosure of the range and weighted average of significant unobservable inputs used to develop Level 3 fair value measurements. The guidance will be effective for the fiscal yearCompany beginning after December 15, 2019, including interim periods within that year. The Company currently has two level three investments, for which we will evaluate on an ongoing basis to determine if there are significant unobservable inputs that will need to be disclosed as a range and weighted average upon adoption. We will adopt the standard in 2020.

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-13, Financial Instruments – Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments (“ASU 2016-13”). ASU 2016-13 is intended to provide financial statement users with more useful information about expected credit losses on financial assets held by a reporting entity at each reporting date. The new standard replaces the existing incurred loss impairment methodology with a methodology that requires consideration of a broader range of reasonable and supportable forward-looking information to estimate all expected credit losses. This ASU is effective for fiscal years and interim periods within those years beginning after December 15, 2019.2022. Early adoption is allowed. If an entity early adopts, the entity would be required to apply the new guidance to all acquisitions made in the year of the early adoption. The Company does not expectis still reviewing the impactstandard and as of the reporting date of this ASU on its consolidated financial statementsfiling has not elected to be material and will adopt the standard in 2020.early adopt.

 

 

3.      INVESTMENTS AND FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

 

The Company’s fair value hierarchy for its cash equivalents, marketable securities and derivativefinancial instruments as of December 31, 20192021 and December 31, 2018,2020, respectively, was as follows:

 

(In thousands)

                

December 31, 2021

 

Level 1

  

Level 2

  

Level 3

  

Total

 

Contingent Consideration

 $0  $0  $720  $720 

Financial instrument liability

  0   0   825   825 

Total liabilities

 $0  $0  $1,545  $1,545 

 

(In thousands)

                

December 31, 2019

 

Level 1

  

Level 2

  

Level 3

  

Total

 

Money market securities

 $17  $  $  $17 

Total assets

 $17  $  $  $17 

December 31, 2020

 

Level 1

  

Level 2

  

Level 3

  

Total

 

Convertible note payable

 $0  $0  $1,955  $1,955 

Contingent Consideration

  0   0   720   720 

Total liabilities

 $0  $0  $2,675  $2,675 

Fair Value Measurements

    

Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3 - recurring basis)

    

(In thousands)

 

Convertible Note Payable

 

Balance at December 31, 2020

 $1,955 

Loss on extinguishment on amendment to remove convertible feature

  250 

Amortization of original issue discount

  40 

Accrued interest

  57 

Extinguishment of note

  (2,302)

Balance at December 31, 2021

 $0 

Fair Value Measurements

    

Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3 - recurring basis)

    

(In thousands)

 

Contingent Consideration

 

Balance at December 31, 2019

 $0 

Contingent consideration valued at acquisition of Reach Construction Group, LLC

  720 

Fair Value adjustment

  0 

Balance at December 31, 2020

 $720 

Balance at December 31, 2021

 $720 

 

The Company evaluated the contingent consideration for fair value as of December 31, 2021 using a third-party valuation specialist. Significant unobservable inputs include projected future EBITDA, future estimated growth rate, estimated discount rate, and estimated volatility. The fair value of the contingent consideration did not change significantly from 2020 to 2021 and as a result, no adjustment was recorded. 

December 31, 2018

 

Level 1

  

Level 2

  

Level 3

  

Total

 

Money market securities

 $16  $  $  $16 

Certificate of deposit - restricted cash

  523         523 

Certificate of deposit - restricted investment (1)

  400         400 

Convertible notes receivable

        655   655 

Total assets

 $939  $  $655  $1,594 

Fair Value Measurements

    

Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3 - recurring basis)

    

(In thousands)

 

Convertible Note

 
  

Receivable

 

Balance at December 31, 2020

 $0 

Fair value of Financial instrument liability at inception

  858 

Fair value adjustment

  (33)

Balance at December 31, 2021

 $825 

 

(1) InvestmentIn conjunction with the Company issuing $105 million of debt to a syndicate of lenders, the Company committed to issuing 1,690,677 shares of stock to the lenders in the syndicate in a subscription agreement. Included in the subscription agreement is a 12-month certificateprovision that provides for additional shares to be issued to the lenders of deposit classifiedthe syndicate if the Company issues shares of common stock in an offering at a price lower than the $2.36 per share amount for the shares initially issued to the lenders in the syndicate. This financial instrument was valued as available for salea put option using the Black Scholes option pricing model. Unobservable inputs include volatility, exercise price, and included in Deposits and other assets ontime to expiration. The put expires at the balance sheet.

Fair Value Measurements

    

Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3 - recurring basis)

    

(In thousands)

 

Convertible Note

 
  

Receivable

 

Balance at December 31, 2018

 $655 

Conversion to common stock of VPS

  (655

)

Balance at December 31, 2019

 $ 

the Company's seller notes. 

 

There were no transfers between Level 3 and Level 2 in 20192021 as determined at the end of the reporting period.

 

73

The fair values of the reporting units subject to the Company’s quantitative impairment analysis were determined utilizing a blend of a market and an income approach to determine the estimated fair values of the reporting units, as discussed in Note 2. The fair value measurements and models were classified as non-recurring Level 3 measurements.

 

The convertible notes receivable balance was withInvestment in VPS

As of December 31, 2021, the Company had a minority interest in Virtual Power Systems ("VPS") and considered a restricted security. The fair value measurement. Prior to the third quarter of a restricted security includes consideration of whether the restriction would be factored in by market participants in pricing the asset. The fair value of a restricted security could be2020, based on its equity ownership and that the quoted price for an otherwise identical unrestricted securityCompany maintained a board seat and participated in operational activities of VPS, the same issuer that trades in a public market, adjustedCompany maintained significant influence to reflect the effect of the restriction. The adjustment would reflect the amount market participants would demand because of the risk relating to the inability to access a public marketaccount for the security for the specified period. The Company concluded based on the history of VPS having raised substantial funds under its bridge loan/purchase agreement prior to and subsequent to CUI’s investments, that the value of the notes had neither increased significantly or decreased significantly.

Equity Method Investment in VPS

On March 30, 2019, the Company converted its $0.7 million in notes receivable into preferred stock of VPS. In addition, the Company contributed $0.3 million of cash and $2.5 million of other assets,investment as well as $1.8 million of future expenditures recorded as liabilities by the Company, of which $1.7 million were paid in 2019. In return, the Company acquired a 21.4% ownership share of VPS. During the three months ended June 30, 2019, the Company recorded a $0.6 million gain based on the fair value of the non-cash assets contributed as part of the investment in VPS, which is included in discontinued operations. As of December 31, 2019, the Company's ownership percentage has been reduced to 20.58% following VPS's issuance of additional equity. Based on current accounting guidance, the Company will record its share of VPS's income or loss under the equity method of accounting.an equity-method investment. Under the equity method of accounting, results will are not be consolidated, but the Company will recordrecords a proportionate percentage of the profit or loss of VPS as an addition to or a subtraction from the VPS investment asset.asset balance. The VPS investment basis at December 31, 2019 2021 and December 31, 2020 was $4.9$1.1 million and $1.1 million as reflected on the consolidated balance sheets. A summaryThe Company recorded a $4.8 million loss on its equity-method investment in 2020. With the decrease in ownership percentage following a Q32020 equity raise by VPS and additional board seats placed, OEG no longer has significant influence to recognize the investment under the equity method. The investment is recorded starting as of September 30, 2020 under the cost method of accounting for investments. 

The Company made a purchase of a convertible note receivable for $0.2 million from VPS in the three months ended March 31, 2020, which was increased to $0.3 million in the second quarter of 2020 via payments made to VPS and accrued interest recorded by the Company as part of the unaudited financial statementstransition agreement between the Company and VPS. VPS chose to convert the note receivable to equity in the third quarter of 2020. In addition, the affiliate asCompany made additional cash investments of December 31, 2019 is as follows:

(In thousands)

    

Current assets

 $3,739 

Non-current assets

  4,306 

Total Assets

  8,045 
     

Current liabilities

 $396 

Non-current liabilities

  2,725 

Stockholders' equity

  4,924 

Total liabilities and stockholders' equity

 $8,045 
     

Operating results since equity-method investment acquired.

    

Revenues

 $154 

Operating loss

  (5,151

)

Net loss

 $(5,151

)

Other comprehensive profit (loss):

    

Foreign currency translation adjustment

   

Comprehensive net loss

  (5,151

)

Add back excluded acquisition intangible amortization, net

  86 

Adjusted comprehensive loss

 $(5,065

)

Company share of adjusted net loss at 20.58%

 $(1,043

)

Equity investment in affiliate

 $4,865 

$0.5 million and a $0.3 million non-cash inventory investment in VPS in 2020.

 

 

4.             PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET

 

Property and equipment from continuing operations is summarized as follows:

 

  

At December 31,

 

(In thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

 

Land

 $395  $382 

Buildings

  4,117   3,976 

Leasehold improvements

  109   109 

Equipment

  1,274   1,357 

Property and equipment, gross

  5,895   5,824 

Less accumulated depreciation

  (1,441

)

  (1,284

)

Property and equipment, net

 $4,454  $4,540 

  

At December 31,

 

(In thousands)

 

2021

  

2020

 

Leasehold improvements

 $272  $0 

Equipment

  32,762   2,714 

Property and equipment, gross

  33,034   2,715 

Less accumulated depreciation

  (3,396)  (631)

Property and equipment, net

 $29,638  $2,084 

 

Depreciation expense from continuing operations for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 2021 and 20172020 was $0.3 million, $0.3$5.0 million and $0.3$0.6 million, respectively. For the year ended December 31,2021, depreciation totals included $0.4 million that was classified as cost of revenues in the Telecommunications segment, $4.0 million that was classified as cost of revenues in the Electric Power segment and $54 thousand as cost of revenues in the Renewables segment.

 

During the year ended December 31, 2019,2021, the Company's continuing operations disposed of $0.2 million of property and equipment with an accumulated depreciation at disposal of $39 thousand. Cash and non-cash proceeds from sale was $0.2 million.million and a gain of $14 thousand.

 

During the year ended December 31, 2018,2020, the Company's continuing operations disposed of $5.6$0.3 million of property and equipment including a $93 thousand trade in with ana total accumulated depreciation at disposal of $0.8 million. Included in disposals in 2018, was the sale$0.2 million and a loss of the Company's headquarters building for $8.1 million with a ten-year lease back and, accordingly, included a deferred gain of $2.9 million that was net of $0.4 million of sale-related expenses. As a result of the implementation and transition to the accounting guidance in ASC 842, Accounting for Leases, the deferred gain was recognized on January 1, 2019 as a credit to accumulated deficit.$25 thousand.

 

7774

 

5.             GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS

Goodwill

The Company records goodwill associated with its acquisitions of businesses when the consideration paid exceeds the fair value of the net tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired. Goodwill balances are evaluated for potential impairment on an annual basis. The current guidance requires the Company to perform an annual impairment test of our goodwill or at an interim period if there is an event that occurs or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount. We are required to perform our annual or interim goodwill impairment test by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount. As of December 31, 2021, the Company has five operating segments that are also considered reporting units for goodwill impairment testing. The five operating segments are: Front Line Power Construction, LLC, Orbital Power Inc., Eclipse Foundation Group, Orbital Solar Services, Gibson Technical Services, which includes  IMMCO, Inc. and Full Moon Telecom, LLC. The five operating segments are grouped into three reportable segments, Telecommunications (GTS  Renewables (OSS), and Electric Power (FLP, OPI, and EFG).

We would be required to recognize an impairment charge for the amount by which the reporting unit's carrying amount exceeds its fair value up to but not to exceed the amount of the goodwill. Based on management's evaluation, there were no such circumstances at December 31, 2021 or 2020 that would require us to perform an interim goodwill impairment test. Upon acquisition of Reach Construction Group, LLC, (now known as Orbital Solar Services ("OSS"), considered both a reporting unit and operating segment and included in the Renewables segment, the Company recorded $7.0 million of goodwill. Goodwill was valued as of April 1, 2020 by a third-party valuation expert and was recorded following the recognition of OSS's tangible assets and liabilities and $13.7 million of finite-lived identifiable intangible assets included in the table below. Factors that contributed to the Company's goodwill are OSS's skilled workforce and reputation within its industry. The Company also expects to achieve future synergies between the Renewables segment and the Electric Power segment. These synergies are expected to be achieved in the form of power line work necessary when bringing new solar power systems online. 

Throughout 2021, the Company acquired three companies that make up the Telecommunication reportable segment. Each company acquired, Gibson Technical Services, IMMCO, Inc., and Full Moon Telecom, LLC, is considered a reporting unit that together aggregate into one integrated operating segment called Gibson Technical Service. Goodwill for these three reporting units will be aggregated together and recognized at the operating segment level Gibson Technical Services.

Upon acquisition of Gibson Technical Services, the Company recorded $12.3 million of goodwill. Goodwill was valued as of April 13, 2021 by a third-party valuation expert and was recorded following the recognition of Gibson Technical Services’ tangible assets and liabilities and $22.8 million of finite- and indefinite-lived identifiable intangible assets. Factors that contribute to the Company’s goodwill in Gibson Technical Services (GTS) includes GTS’s sterling reputation within the telecommunications industry which when combined with the Company’s resources, provides synergies that will help OEG penetrate the telecommunications market.

Upon acquisition of IMMCO, Inc., the Company recorded $10.6 million of goodwill. Goodwill was valued as of July 28, 2021 by a third-party valuation expert and was recorded following the recognition of IMMCO Inc.’s tangible assets and liabilities and $5.3 million of finite- and indefinite-lived identifiable intangible assets. Factors that contribute to the Company’s goodwill at IMMCO include the significant synergies added to the Company’s Telecommunications segment by expanding the depth and breadth of the customer solutions provided.

Upon acquisition of Full Moon Telecom, LLC, the Company recorded $0.8 million of goodwill. Goodwill was valued as of October 22,2021, by a third-party valuation expert and was recorded following the recognition of Full Moon Telecom’s tangible assets and liabilities and $0.4 million of finite- and indefinite-lived identifiable intangible assets. Factors that contribute to the Company’s goodwill in Full Moon Telecom, LLC, include the highly skilled and technically competent workforce at Full Moon. This workforce when combined with Gibson Technical Services and IMMCO provide synergies that increase the unique portfolio of services provided to their customers and further penetrate the telecommunications market.

Upon acquisition of Front Line Power Construction, LLC, which is considered both a reporting unit and an operating segment, the Company recorded $70.2 million of goodwill. Goodwill was valued as of November 17, 2021 by a third-party valuation expert and was recorded following the recognition of Front Line Power Construction’s tangible assets and liabilities and $108.2 million of finite- and indefinite-lived identifiable intangible assets. Factors that contribute to the Company’s goodwill at Front Line Power Construction include the strong leadership of Kurt Johnson, Front Line Power Construction’s Founder and CEO, along with the skills and expertise brought by his team. Front Line Power Construction’s team provides synergies with Orbital Power Inc. that will add momentum to the comprehensive range of solutions by OEG’s Electric Power Segment.

For Orbital Solar Systems, (formally known as Reach Construction), management completed a quantitative analysis to determine potential impairment at the May 31st,2021 annual impairment test date. Goodwill in the Telecommunications segment was qualitatively reviewed due to the fact that this review was performed within 50 days of the initial valuation of GTS. The qualitative review was performed to determine whether it was more likely than not that the fair value of its reporting unit was less than its carrying amount, including goodwill. To complete the qualitative review, management evaluated the fair value of the Goodwill and considered all known events and circumstances that might trigger an impairment of goodwill. Management determined that no additional testing was necessary and no impairment was necessary. During management's review of goodwill as of December 31,2021, the Company determined that there were not indicators present and no triggering events to suggest that it was more likely than not that the fair value of each reporting unit and each indefinite-lived intangible was less than its carrying amount and thus no impairment was necessary.

Other intangible assets

 

At December 31, 2019 2021 and 2018,2020, the gross carrying amount and accumulated amortization of intangible assets, other than goodwill, are as follows:

 

      

December 31,

2019

      

Identifiable

Intangible

  

December 31,

2018

      

Identifiable

Intangible

 

(In thousands)

 

*Estimated

 

Gross

      

Assets, less

  

Gross

      

Assets, less

 
  

Useful

 

Carrying

  

Accumulated

  

Accumulated

  

Carrying

  

Accumulated

  

Accumulated

 
  

Life (in years)

 

Amount

  

Amortization

  

Amortization

  

Amount

  

Amortization

  

Amortization

 

Finite-lived intangible assets Energy Segment:

                            

Order backlog

  2  $2,938  $(2,938

)

 $  $2,837  $(2,837

)

 $ 

Trade name - Orbital-UK

  10   1,579   (1,066

)

  513   1,526   (877

)

  649 

Customer list - Orbital-UK

  10   6,142   (4,146

)

  1,996   5,931   (3,411

)

  2,520 

Technology rights

  20   330   (213

)

  117   318   (173

)

  145 

Technology-Based Asset - Know How

  12   2,488   (1,399

)

  1,089   2,403   (1,151

)

  1,252 

Technology-Based Asset - Software

  10   539   (364

)

  175   521   (300

)

  221 

Computer software

  3to5  717   (331

)

  386   667   (140

)

  527 

Total Energy Segment

      14,733   (10,457

)

  4,276   14,203   (8,889

)

  5,314 
                             

Other category

                            

Computer software

  3to5  720   (698

)

  22   715   (676

)

  39 

Product certifications

  3   36   (36

)

     36   (36

)

   

Total other category

      756   (734

)

  22   751   (712

)

  39 

Total Finite-lived assets

                            

Total Identifiable other intangible assets

     $15,489  $(11,191

)

 $4,298  $14,954  $(9,601

)

 $5,353 

Finite-lived intangible assets (in thousands)

    (In years)  December 31, 2021  December 31, 2020 

Telecommunications

 

Estimated Useful Life (in years)

  

Weighted average remaining amortization period

  

Gross Carrying Amount

  

Accumulated Amortization

  

Identifiable Intangible Assets, less Accumulated Amortization

  

Gross Carrying Amount

  

Accumulated Amortization

  

Identifiable Intangible Assets, less Accumulated Amortization

 

Customer Relationships-GTS

 10   9.29  $16,075  $(1,152) $14,923  $0  $0  $0 

Customer Relationships-IMMCO

 10   9.58   3,800   (158)  3,642   0   0   0 

Customer Relationships - Full Moon

 10   9.82   210   (4)  206   0   0   0 

Technology - Know How

 4   3.58   1,459   (152)  1,307   0   0   0 

Software-IMMCO

 3   2.57   547   (93)  454   0   0   0 

Non-compete agreements-GTS

 5   4.29   385   (55)  330   0   0   0 

Total Telecommunications

         22,476   (1,614)  20,862   0   0   0 
                                

Electric Power

                               

Order backlog

 1   0.88   9,186   (1,148)  8,038   0   0   0 

Customer relationships - Front Line

 15   14.89   84,012   (700)  83,312   0   0   0 

Total Electric Power

         93,198   (1,848)  91,350   0   0   0 
                                

Renewables

                               

Customer Relationships

 5   3.25   8,647   (3,027)  5,620   8,647   (1,297)  7,350 

Trade name - Reach Construction Group

 1      1,878   (1,878)  0   1,878   (1,409)  469 

Non-compete agreements

 5   3.25   3,212   (1,124)  2,088   3,212   (482)  2,730 

Total Renewables

         13,737   (6,029)  7,708   13,737   (3,188)  10,549 
                                

Other category

                               

Computer software

 3   0.08   713   (713)  0   713   (709)  4 

Product certifications

 3      36   (36)  0   36   (36)  0 

Total Other category

         749   (749)  0   749   (745)  4 
                                

Total identifiable finite-lived other intangible assets

        $130,160  $(10,240) $119,920  $14,486  $(3,933) $10,553 
                                

Identifiable indefinite-lived other intangible assets

                               
                                

Electric Power

                               

Trade name - Front line

         15,027      15,027   0      0 
                                

Telecommunications

                               

Trade name - GTS

         6,388      6,388   0      0 

Trade name - IMMCO

         1,162      1,162   0      0 

Trade name - Full Moon

         159      159   0      0 

Total Telecommunications

         7,709      7,709   0      0 

Total identifiable indefinite-lived other intangible assets

         22,736      22,736   0      0 
                                

Total identifiable other intangible assets

         152,896   (10,240)  142,656   14,486   (3,933)  10,553 

 

* All intangibles are reviewed annually for impairment, or sooner if circumstances change.

 

Intangible asset amortization by category was as follows:

 

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

  

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

(In thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

2017

  

2021

  

2020

 
             

Trademarks and trade name

 $153  $160  $154  $469  $1,409 

Customer lists/relationships

  595   622   600  3,744  1,297 

Technology rights

  32   33   30 

Technology-based assets

  253   265   255 

Technology-Know How

 152  0 

Computer software

  204   161   32  96  18 

Other intangibles

        2 

Noncompete agreements

 697  482 

Order Backlog

 1,148  0 

Intangibles held by discontinued operations

  400   661   768   1,396   1,215 

Total amortization

 $1,637  $1,902  $1,841  $7,702  $4,421 

 

Estimated future amortization by category of finite-lived intangible assets at December 31, 20192021 was as follows:

 

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

 
 

For the Years Ending December 31,

            

2027 and

   

(In thousands)

 

2020

  

2021

  

2022

  

2023

  

2024

  

2025 and

thereafter

  

Totals

  

2022

  

2023

  

2024

  

2025

  

2026

  

thereafter

  

Totals

 

Trademarks and trade name

 $158  $158  $158  $39  $  $  $513  $0  $0  $0  $0  $0  $0  $0 

Customer lists/relationships

  614   614   614   154         1,996  9,339  9,339  9,339  8,042  7,609  64,035  107,703 

Technology rights

  33   33   33   18         117 

Technology-based assets

  261   261   261   221   208   52   1,264 

Technology-Know How

 365  365  365  212  0  0  1,307 

Computer software

  198   112   76   22         408  222  222  10  0  0  0  454 

Order Backlog

 8,038  0  0  0  0  0  8,038 

Non-compete agreements

  719   719   719   238   23   0   2,418 

Total amortization

 $1,264  $1,178  $1,142  $454  $208  $52  $4,298  $18,683  $10,645  $10,433  $8,492  $7,632  $64,035  $119,920 

 

Management reviews other intangible assets for impairment when facts or circumstances suggest. As of December 31, 2019,2021, management has evaluated the remaining finite-lived and indefinite-lived intangible assets and believes no0 impairment exists.

 

The following table reflects the carrying amount of goodwill as of December 31, 2018 2021 and 2017,2020, and the 20182021 activity. There was no goodwill included in the consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018.

 

(In thousands)

 

Energy

  

Other

  

Total

 

Balance, December 31, 2017

 $4,549  $  $4,549 

Currency translation adjustments

  (202

)

     (202

)

Goodwill impairment

  (4,347

)

    $(4,347

)

Balance, December 31, 2018

 $  $  $ 

See Note 2 Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Indefinite-Lived Intangibles and Goodwill Assets for information on the 2019 impairments to goodwill included in discontinued operations and the impairments included in continuing operations in 2018 and 2017.

(In thousands)

 

Telecommunications

  

Electric Power

  

Renewables

  

Other

  

Total

 

Balance, December 31, 2020

 $  $0  $7,006  $0  $7,006 

Acquisition of Gibson Technical Services

  12,339   0   0   0   12,339 

Acquisition of IMMCO Inc.

  10,577   0   0   0   10,577 

Acquisition of Full Moon Telecom, LLC

  826   0   0   0   826 

Acquisition of Front Line Power Construction, LLC

  0   70,151   0   0   70,151 

Balance, December 31, 2021

 $23,742  $70,151  $7,006  $0  $100,899 

 

 

 

 

6.          INSTRUMENTS AND RISK MANAGEMENT

 

The Company has limited involvement with derivative instruments and does not trade them. The Company does use derivatives to manage certain interest rate and foreign currency exchange rate exposures.

 

At December 31, 2019 2021 and 2018,2020, the Company had no0 derivative instruments designated as effective hedges.

 

From time to time, to minimize risk associated with foreign currency exposures on receivables for sales denominated in foreign currencies, the Company enters into various foreign currency forward exchange contracts, which are intended to minimize the currency exchange rate exposure from expected future cash flows. The forward currency contracts have maturity dates of up to one year at the date of inception. At December 31, 2019 and 2018, no foreign currency forward exchange contracts were outstanding.

In conjunction with the mortgage note payable for the purchase of the headquarters facility completed in 2013, the Company entered into a Swap Transaction Confirmation agreement effective October 1, 2013, which had a maturity date of ten years incorporating the terms and definitions of the International Swaps and Derivatives Association, Inc. (ISDA) that effectively fixed our effective annual interest rate at 6.27%.

In December 2018, the Company closed out the swap upon the sale and leaseback of the Company's headquarters since the underlying mortgage note payable was paid off.

The amount of gain recognized in income on the statement of operations is summarized below:

 

Location of Gain

            
 

Recognized in Income

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

(In thousands)

  

2019

  

2018

  

2017

 

Interest rate swap:

Other income (expense)

 $  $129  $111 

 

7.          NOTES PAYABLE

 

Notes payable is summarized as follows:

 

  

As of December 31,

 

(In thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

 

(a) Acquisition Note Payable - related party

 $  $5,304 

(b) Notes Payable - Financing notes

  473    

Ending balance

 $473  $5,304 

  

As of December 31,

 

(In thousands)

 

2021

  

2020

 

Syndicated debt (1)

 $105,000  $0 

Seller Financed notes payable - Front Line Power Construction, LLC acquisition (2)

  86,730   0 

Note payable - financing notes (3)

  1,357   1,163 

Pay-check protection loans (4)

  0   1,152 

Seller financed notes payable - Reach Construction acquisition (5)

  3,480   6,480 

Vehicle and equipment loans (6)

  222   195 

Non-recourse payable agreements (7)

  8,269   2,699 

Notes payable - Institutional investor (8)

  33,922   2,245 

Conditional settlement note payable agreement (9)

  3,000   3,500 

Full Moon - loan to prior owner (10)

  2   0 

Subtotal

  241,982   17,434 

Unamortized debt discount and debt issuance costs

  (12,603)  (903)

Total long-term debt

  229,379   16,531 

Less short term notes and current maturities of long term notes payable

  (72,774)  (11,681)

Notes payable, less current portion

 $156,605  $4,850 

 

(a)(1)

The note payableOn November 17, 2021, the Company entered into a credit agreement and associated documents (the “Credit Agreement”) with Alter Domus (US), LLC (“Alter Domus”), as administrative agent and collateral agent and various lenders (the “Lenders”) in order to International Electronic Devices, Inc. (formerly CUI, Inc.) is associated withenable the Company to finance the acquisition of CUI, Inc.Front Line Power Construction, LLC. The Lenders made a Term Loan to Front Line in the initial principal amount of $105,000,000 for the purposes of financing the acquisition and the associated expenses. The term loan initially bears interest at the three-month Adjusted LIBOR Rate, plus the Applicable Margin, of which 2.5% may be paid in-kind. The Term Loan shall be repaid in consecutive quarterly installments of $262,500, commencing on June 30, 2022. The Credit Agreement provides for mandatory prepayments on the occurrence of events such as sales of assets, Consolidated Excess Cash Flow and Excess Receipts during the term. The credit agreement provides for prepayment premiums (initially 5% on prepayments made in the first30 months of the term, declining to 1% in the final year of the term). The Term Loan matures on November 17, 2026, subject to acceleration on Events of Default. Interest rate on the term notes at December 31, 2021 was 13.5%.

(2)

On November 17, 2021, the Company entered into two unsecured promissory notes, one with Kurt A Johnson, Jr, for $34,256,000 and the second for $51,384,000 with Tidal Power Group LLC. These promissory notes bear an interest rate of 6% per annum and were due on May 17, 2022. On December 10, 2021, Kurt A Johnson Jr. received an additional unsecured promissory note was due May 15, 2020 and includedin the principal sum of $1,090,000 also with a 5%6% per annum interest rate per annum, with interest payable monthly and in exchange for a reduction of shares issued to Kurt of 400,000. In March 2022, the principal due asmaturity date for a balloon payment at maturity. The note included a contingent conversion feature, such that in the event of default on the note the holderportion of the note could, at the holder’s option, convert the note principal into common stock at $0.001 per share. Upon the saletwo promissory notes was extended to May 31, 2023. See Note 18 for details on extension of the Company's electromechanical components business on September 30, 2019, the buyer also assumed the $5.3 million related party note payable as partial payment.maturity date.      

(b)

(3)

Two notesNote payable with an original balance for $358 thousand and $374 thousand$1.4 million to First Insurance Funding werewas executed in July and November 20192020 by CUI Globalthe Company for the purposepurposes of financing a portion of the Company's insurance coverage. The Note 1 hashad an annual percentage rate of 4.83%3.35% with eightnine monthly payments of approximately $46$159 thousand and willwas paid off in the three months ended June 30 ,2021. The Company financed two additional insurance policies in the fourth quarter of 2020 for $0.1 million and $0.4 million, respectively. The smaller of which matured in April 2021 and the other of which matured in September 2021, and for which had annual interest rates of 3.35% and 4.35%, respectively. The Company executed two additional notes payable in the third quarter of 2021 for $1.7 million and $54 thousand, respectively at interest rates of 3.00% and 4.35%, respectively. In the fourth quarter, the Company executed one additional notes payable for $0.5 million at an interest rate of 4.35%.

(4)

On April 30, 2020��and May 2, 2020, the Company entered into unsecured loans in the aggregate principal amount of approximately $1.9 million (the “Loans”) pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”), sponsored by the Small Business Administration as guarantor of loans under the PPP ($0.8 million of the loans related to a since discontinued operation and is classified in liabilities held for sale at December 31, 2020). The Loans, and interest accrued thereon, were forgivable, partially or in full, if certain conditions were met. The Loans were evidenced by four promissory notes, three with Bank of America, NA which were dated as of April 30, 2020 and one with Dogwood State Bank dated May 2, 2020. The Bank of America notes were to mature two years from funding date of the notes and the Dogwood State Bank note was to mature two years from the note date. Each of the notes bore interest at a fixed rate of 1.0% per annum with payments deferred. Prepayments on the Loans were permitted at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties. All $1.9 million of the loans outstanding at December 31, 2020 were forgiven in the three months ending June 30, 2021. The remaining $1.4 million of Pay-check Protection loans were acquired as part of the GTS acquisition, and which were forgiven in the third quarter of 2021. The Company had a contingent receivable associated with the remaining PPP loan whereby the Company would be paid off by the Sellers of GTS if the remaining PPP loan was not forgiven. Upon forgiveness of the loan, the receivable was relieved resulting in no gain or loss on the transaction.

(5)

Includes two seller-financed notes payable, one for $5 million and the second for $1.5 million. The $5 million note was amended from its original 18-month term to provide for installments of $1 million paid on March 3, 2021, a second $1 million payment to be made on October 31, 2021 and a final principal payment of $3 million on March 31, 2022.  In August 2021, the Company paid $1 million in cash and exchanged 155,763 shares of common stock in exchange for an additional $1 million reduction in principal. The Company recorded this as an extinguishment of debt and a gain on extinguishment of $0.7 million. The new loan had a face value of $2.0 million at a rate of 6% per annum and was recorded based on an estimated market interest rate of 10% per annum with a discount of $48 thousand. The original payment terms called for the full $5 million principal to be paid no later than November 1, 2021 without separate installments. The second seller financed note payable is due 36-months from the April 1, 2020 and Note 2 has acquisition date. Both notes had an annual percentageoriginal stated interest rate of 4.85%6% per annum.

(6)

Includes vehicle and equipment loans with ten monthlyinterest rates ranging from 5.74% to 8.99%.

(7)

On September 1st and 2nd,2020, the Company entered into non-recourse agreements for the sale of future receipts to C6 Capital. The Company received net cash proceeds of $1.9 million for the future receipts of revenues in the amount of approximately $2.5 million. The Company recorded a liability of approximately $2.5 million and a debt discount of approximately $0.5 million, which represents the original issue discount and the fees paid in association with the financing. The debt discount was amortized to interest expense over the life of the agreement. Under the terms of the agreement, the Company was required to make minimum weekly payments in the aggregate of $155 thousand, which included a portion related to the discount amortization that was recorded as interest expense. The note had 0 stated interest rate and the effective interest rate used to amortize the discount was approximately 158%. These notes were refinanced in November 2020 and a loss on extinguishment of debt was recorded for $154 thousand related to the unamortized discount at the time of payoff. To refinance the original future revenues payable note and to provide the Company with additional capital, the Company took out two additional non-recourse agreements with C6 Capital for the sale of future revenues in the total amount of $3.5 million. These agreements had 0 stated interest rate and the original issue discount including upfront fees are being amortized using an effective interest rate of approximately 117%. After combined weekly payments of approximately $38$54 thousand for the firstfour weeks, the combined payments increased to approximately $116 thousand until June 2021 when the notes were paid off.  In October 2021, the Company entered into a 60-day non-recourse agreement for the sale of future receipts to C6 Capital. The Company received net cash proceeds of $1.0 million with a face amount of $1.2 million. This agreement was paid off in December 2021. The agreement had no stated interest rate, but the discount and loan origination fees were amortized based on a 129% interest rate. A second non-recourse agreement with C6 was originated in November 2021 with a face amount of $9.5 million. The Company received net cash proceeds of $6.9 million. The Company recorded a liability of $9.5 million and a debt discount of $2.6 million. Under the terms of the agreement, for the first12 weeks, the Company makes weekly payments of $148 thousand and willfor the final 20 weeks, the Company makes payments of $384 thousand. The agreement had no stated interest rate, but the discount and loan origination fees are being amortized based on an 89% interest rate.  As of December 31, 2021, the future payments for this financing agreement was approximately $8.3 million ($6.6 million net of discount). See table on following page.

(8)

On November 13, 2020, the Company completed a Securities Purchase Agreement with an institutional investor, pursuant to which the Company agreed to issue to the Investor an unsecured convertible instrument in the principal amount of $2.2 million (the “Convertible Security” or “Note”) to purchase shares of the Company’s common stock, $0.001 par value per share (the “Common Stock”) against the payment of the applicable consideration therefore. Upon the closing on November 13, 2020, the Company received gross proceeds of $2.2 million before fees and other expenses associated with the transaction, including but not limited to, a $0.2 million original issue discount payable to the Investor. The net proceeds received by the Company were used primarily for working capital, debt repayment and general corporate purposes. The Note is payable in full within eighteen (18) months after the purchase price date in accordance with the terms set forth in the Note and accrues interest on the outstanding balance at the rate of ten percent (10%) per annum from the Purchase Price Date until the Note is paid in full. All interest shall compound daily and shall be paid offpayable in accordance with the terms of the Note. Company has the right to prepay all or any portion of the outstanding balance in an amount equal to 115% multiplied by the portion of the outstanding balance to be prepaid. The creditor may request payment of up to $250 thousand per month beginning 6 months after initial issuance. Original issue discount is amortized over the expected life of the investment at an effective interest rate of approximately 29%. The Company elected the fair value option for this note and as a result did not bifurcate any potential embedded derivatives. The Company determined that the fair value at December 31, 2020 approximated its carrying value so no fair value adjustment was made as of December 31, 2020. In February 2021, the Company negotiated modified terms which effectively removed the convertible option from the note and the Company recorded a $250 thousand loss on extinguishment. 

In July 2021, the Company issued 248,509 shares of common stock in exchange for a payment against the debt of $1 million and in September 1, 2020 .2021, the Company signed an exchange agreement to issue 83,333 shares of common stock in exchange for a payment against the debt of $250 thousand. In October 2021, the Company issued 100,000 shares in exchange for a payment against the debt of $250,000. In November 2021, the Company issued 113,636 shares in exchange for a payment against the debt of $250,000. The carrying value was $0.7 million at December 31, 2021.

On March 23, 2021, the Company completed a second note payable with the same institutional investor with a face amount of $10.7 million, a stated interest rate of 9.0%, an estimated effective interest rate of 19.6%, an original issue discount of $1.0 million. The note payable is payable within eighteen (18) months after the purchase date and the creditor may request payment of up to $1 million per month beginning 6 months after initial issuance. In September 2021, the Company issued 333,333 shares of common stock in exchange for a payment against the debt of $1 million. In October 2021, the Company issued 400,000 shares of common stock in exchange for $1.0 million payment against the debt. In November 2021, the Company issued 454,545 shares of common stock in exchange for a $1.0 million payment against the debt. In December 2021, the Company issued 454,545 shares of common stock in exchange for $1.0 million payment against the debt. The carrying value was $7.2 million at December 31, 2021.

On May 11, 2021, the Company completed a third note payable agreement with the institutional investor with a face amount of $10.7 million, a stated interest of 9% per annum and a combined original issue discount and unamortized prepaid fees of $1.0 million. The net proceeds were to be used for working capital, future acquisitions and general corporate purposes. The note payable is payable within eighteen (18) months after the purchase date and the creditor may request payment of up to $1 million per month beginning 6 months after initial issuance. In November 2021, the Company issued 454,545 shares of common stock in exchange for $1.0 million payment against the debt. In December 2021, the Company issued 284,090 shares of common stock in exchange for $625 thousand payment against the debt. The carrying value was $9.3 million at December 31, 2021. 

On December 20, 2021, the Company completed a fourth note payable agreement with the institutional investor with a face amount of $16.1 million, a stated interest rate of 9.0%, an estimated effective interest rate of 16.3%, and an original issue discount of $1.1 million. The note payable is payable within eighteen (18) months after the purchase date and the creditor may request payment of up to $1.5 million per month beginning 6 months after initial issuance. The carrying value was $15.1 million at December 31, 2021. The Company has not made any payments on this note as of December 31, 2021.

For Streeterville payments made by exchanging stock for payments against the debt in 2021, the Company recorded a total loss of $1.3 million on the exchanges due to the Company issuing shares at a lower price than the current market price on the dates of exchange.

(9)

In October 2020, the Company entered into a conditional settlement agreement with a subcontractor to make payments of $3.5 million at 0 interest over three years. The Company made a $0.5 million payment in the fourth quarter of 2021. Subsequent to year end, the Company made a $150,000 payment in February 2022, and is scheduled to make a $350,000 payment by March 31, 2022, a $1 million payment by November 2022 and the final $1.5 million payment by November 2023.

(10)

Represents Full Moon Telecom, LLC opening balance sheet loan to prior Full Moon Telecom, LLC owner.

77

The following shows the elements of the Non-recourse payable agreements:

                         

(In thousands)

                        
  

Face Value

  

Repayments

  

Loan Origination Fees

  

Discounts

  

Amortization of Discounts

  

Balance as of December 31, 2021

 

Non-recourse payable agreements

 $9,450  $(1,181)  (140) $(2,450) $922  $6,601 

 

The following table details the maturity of the notes payable for CUI Global,Orbital Energy Group, Inc.:

(In thousands)

    
  

As of December 31,

2019

 

2020

 $473 

2021

   

2022

   

2023

   

2024

   

Thereafter

   

Total

 $473 

 

8.          OVERDRAFT FACILITY AND LINE OF CREDIT

On October 5, 2016, Orbital Gas Systems Ltd. signed a $1.5 million pounds sterling five-year agreement with the London branch of Wells Fargo Bank N.A. for a multi-currency variable rate overdraft facility at a base rate plus a 2.25% margin (2.5% at December 31, 2018).

(In thousands)

    
  

As of December 31,

 
  

2021

 

2022

 $97,659 

2023

  76,848 

2024

  15,229 

2025

  15,030 

2026

  115,023 

Less interest portion of payments

  (90,410)

Total

 $229,379 

 

8078

8.           LINE OF CREDIT

 

During April 2019, CUI Global replaced On August 19, 2021, the existingCompany's GTS subsidiary entered into a $4.0 million variable rate line of credit agreement. Interest accrues at a rate of 2.05% over the Daily Simple Secured Overnight Financing Rate ("SOFR") index rate. At December 31, 2021 the Company had a $2.5 million outstanding balance on the line of credit and overdraft facilities$1.5 million was available for borrowing.

With the acquisition of Reach Construction Group, LLC in April 2020, the Company acquired with it a line of credit. The Company had a revolving line of credit with Truist bank with a new two-yearbalance of $441 thousand at December 31, 2020. Interest was payable monthly at LIBOR plus 2.5% per annum, with a minimum rate of 2.5%. The interest rate was 6.65% at December 31,2020. The line of credit facility with Bank of America for CUI Inc. and CUI-Canada, perfectedwas collateralized by a first security lien on all assets of CUI Inc.Reach Construction Group, LLC and CUI-Canada.guaranteed by the Seller of Reach Construction Group, LLC. The facility also included a $3 million sub-limit for use by CUI-Global non-loan party subsidiaries as a reserve underline of credit did not have an established maturity date. There was 0 available balance at December 31, 2020 on the borrowing base. Theline of credit facility provided for working capital and general corporate purposes. The credit facility provided up to $10,000,000 in a Revolving Line of Credit Facility (“Revolver”), including a sub-limit for letters of credit. Interest was based upon Daily Floating LIBOR at LIBOR + 2.00%. Thethe Company discontinuedclosed this line of credit in 2019 upon the salefirst quarter of the domestic power and electromechanical businesses. The additional credit was no longer needed due to the cash influx from the sale of the businesses, and the sold businesses were a primary source of collateral for the line of credit.2021.

 

 

9.          COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

 

Legal Matters

The Company may be involved in certain legal actions arising from the ordinary course of business. While it is not feasible to predict or determine the outcome of these matters, we do not anticipate that any of these matters, or these matters in the aggregate, will have a material adverse effect on the financial position or results of operations.

 

Commissions, Royalty and License Fee Agreements

Royalty and license fees are paid in accordance with their related agreements, either on a monthly or quarterly basis. We deal with a number of independent licensors for whose intellectual property we compete with other manufacturers. Rights to such intellectual property, when acquired by us, are usually exclusive and the agreements require us to pay the licensor a royalty on our net sales of the item. These license agreements, in some cases, also provide for advance royalties and minimum guarantees in order to maintain technical rights and exclusivity. As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, $9 thousand and $3 thousand, respectively, was accrued for royalty and license fees payable in accrued expenses.

Employment Agreements

As of the year ended December 31, 2019, the following employment agreements were in place:

William J. Clough, General Counsel of CUI Global, Inc. and Executive Chairman of the Company’s board of directors

Mr. Clough is employed under a three-year employment contract with the Company, which became effective May 14, 2019. Said contract provides, in relevant part, for salary in year 1 of $750 thousand, year 2 of $800 thousand and year 3 of $850 thousand. The employment agreement includes bonus provisions for each calendar year targeted at seventy-five percent of base salary to be based on performance objectives, goals and milestones for each calendar year including company performance. Bonuses are approved based on various performance-related factors and an evaluation of current performance and includes a discretionary bonus of up to twenty-five percent of salary based upon the reasonable judgment of the compensation committee. Employee has the ability to earn a larger bonus based on the performance criteria set forth and the reasonable judgment and discretion of the compensation committee. Mr. Clough's employment agreement includes a grant for 1,600,000 options; however, the grant is subject to the approval of an equity incentive plan by shareholders within one year of the employment agreement. As of December 31, 2019, the shareholders have not approved an equity incentive plan. The agreement provides for up to $9,999 of annual premium life insurance expenses along with the ordinary benefits provided to employees of the Company. The agreement entitles Mr. Clough to severance package of 2.5 times the sum of annual base salary and target bonus along with eighteen months of medical coverage under the Company's medical plans. At December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017, there was an accrual of $0, $30 thousand, and $33 thousand, respectively, for compensation owed to Mr. Clough.

Daniel N. Ford, Chief Financial Officer of CUI Global Inc. and Subsidiaries, Chief Operating Officer of the Energy Division

Mr. Ford is employed under a three-year employment contract with the Company, which became effective May 14, 2019. Said contract provides, in relevant part, for salary in year 1 of $500 thousand, year 2 of $550 thousand and year 3 of $600 thousand. The employment agreement includes bonus provisions for each calendar year targeted at seventy-five percent of base salary to be based on performance objectives, goals and milestones for each calendar year including company performance. Bonuses are approved based on various performance-related factors and an evaluation of current performance and includes a discretionary bonus of up to twenty-five percent of salary based upon the reasonable judgment of the compensation committee. Employee has the ability to earn a larger bonus based on the performance criteria set forth and the reasonable judgment and discretion of the compensation committee. Mr. Ford's employment agreement includes a grant for 960,000 options; however, the grants are subject to the approval of an equity incentive plan by shareholders within one year of the grant. As of December 31, 2019, the shareholders have not approved an equity incentive plan. The agreement provides for ordinary benefits provided to employees of the Company. The agreement entitles Mr. Ford to a severance package of 2.0 times the sum of annual base salary and target bonus along with eighteen months of medical coverage under the Company's medical plans. At December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017, there was an accrual of $0, $21 thousand, and $22 thousand, respectively, for compensation owed to Mr. Ford.

James F. O’Neil III, Chief Executive Officer, Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors, and Chief Executive Officer of the Company’s wholly owned subsidiaries

Mr. O'Neil is employed under a three-year employment contract with the Company, which became effective October 1, 2019. Said contract provides, in relevant part, for salary in year 1 of $750 thousand, year 2 of $800 thousand and year 3 of $850 thousand. The employment agreement includes bonus provisions for each calendar year targeted at seventy-five percent of base salary to be based on performance objectives, goals and milestones for each calendar year including company performance. Bonuses are approved based on various performance-related factors and an evaluation of current performance and includes a discretionary bonus of up to twenty-five percent of salary based upon the reasonable judgment of the compensation committee. Employee has the ability to earn a larger bonus based on the performance criteria set forth and the reasonable judgment and discretion of the compensation committee. Mr. O'Neil's employment agreement includes a grant for 1,000,000 options and he also received a grant for 600,000 options when he was initially appointed to the Board of Directors, however the grants are subject to the approval of an equity incentive plan by shareholders within one year of the grants. As of December 31, 2019, the shareholders have not approved an equity incentive plan. The agreement provides for up to $9,999 of annual premium life insurance expenses along with the ordinary benefits provided to employees of the Company. The agreement entitles Mr. O'Neil to a severance package of 2.5 times the sum of annual base salary and target bonus along with eighteen months of medical coverage under the Company's medical plans.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements - Obligations under Certain Guarantee ContractsPerformance and Payment Bonds and Parent Guarantees

The Company may enter into guarantee arrangements inIn the normalordinary course of business, Orbital Energy Group and its subsidiaries are required by certain customers to facilitate commercial transactionsprovide performance and payment bonds for contractual commitments related to its projects. These bonds provide a guarantee to the customer that the Company will perform under the terms of a contract and that the Company will pay its subcontractors and vendors. If the Company fails to perform under a contract or to pay its subcontractors and vendors, the customer may demand that the surety make payments or provide services under the bond. The Company must reimburse the surety for expenses or outlays it incurs. The bonds will remain in place as the Company completes projects and resolves any disputed matters with third parties.the customers, vendors and subcontractors related to the bonded projects. As of December 31, 2019, 2021 the Company is an indemnitortotal amount of the outstanding performance and payment bonds was approximately $131.8 million. Two of the bonds were on Orbital Solar Services jobs and two bonds were on Orbital Power Inc. construction jobs.  The Orbital Solar Services. jobs were for unconsolidated third parties related to two separate projects that had $109.5 million left to complete the jobs, for a suretycombined bond amount of approximately $127.0 million. The two Orbital Power Inc. bonds were for an unconsolidated a third party related to two ongoing unit-based projects that as of December 31, 2021 had a $4.6consolidated contract value of $3.8 million project that is approximately 90%with costs left to complete and expected to be completed in 2020.of $1.2 million. The Company does not expect any liability associated with thisthese off-balance sheet arrangement.arrangements.

Additionally, from time to time, we guarantee certain obligations and liabilities of our subsidiaries that may arise in connection with, among other things, contracts with customers, equipment lease obligations, and contractor licenses. These guarantees may cover all of the subsidiary’s unperformed, undischarged and unreleased obligations and liabilities under or in connection with the relevant agreement. For example, with respect to customer contracts, a guarantee may cover a variety of obligations and liabilities arising during the ordinary course of the subsidiary’s business or operations, including, among other things, warranty and breach of contract claims, third-party and environmental liabilities arising from the subsidiary’s work and for which it is responsible, liquidated damages, or indemnity claims.

Contingent Liabilities

Orbital Energy Group, Inc. is occasionally party to various lawsuits, claims and other legal proceedings that arise in the ordinary course of business. These actions typically seek, among other things, compensation for alleged personal injury, breach of contract, negligence or gross negligence and/or property damages, wage and hour and other employment-related damages, punitive damages, civil penalties or other losses, or injunctive or declaratory relief.

Regarding all lawsuits, claims and proceedings, Orbital Energy Group, Inc. records a reserve when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the loss can be reasonably estimated. Orbital Energy Group, Inc. discloses matters for which management believes a material loss is at least reasonably possible. None of these proceedings are expected to have a material adverse effect on Orbital Energy Group, Inc.’s consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows. In all instances, management has assessed the matter based on current information and made a judgment concerning its potential outcome, considering the nature of the claim, the amount and nature of damages sought and the probability of success. Management’s judgment may prove materially inaccurate, and such judgment is made subject to the known uncertainties of litigation.

 

 

10.          STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY AND STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION

 

Common Stock Dividend Restrictions

As of December 31, 2019,2021, there are no restrictions on common stock dividends. Also, at December 31, 2019 2021 and 2018,2020, retained earnings were not restricted upon involuntary liquidation.

 

Common Stock Issuances

(Dollars in thousands)

            

Date of issuance

 

Type of
issuance

 

Expense/ Prepaid/
Cash

 

Stock issuance

recipient

 

Reason for

issuance

 

Total no. of
shares

  

Grant date
fair value or net proceeds
recorded at
issuance

 

January, April, July, and October 2019

 

Vested restricted common stock

 

Expense

 

Four board members

 

Director compensation

  164,713  $162 
                 

May 2019

 

Common stock

 

Expense

 

Employee

 

Approved bonus

  18,837   17 

Total 2019 issuances

  183,550  $179 (1)
                 

January, April, July and October 2018

 

Vested restricted common stock

 

Expense

 

Four board members

 

Director compensation

  72,157  $175 

January and July 2018

 

Common stock

 

Expense

 

Three Employees

 

Approved bonuses

  68,118   183 (2)

July and December 2018

 

Common stock

 

Expense

 

Related Party, James McKenzie

 

Pursuant to royalty agreement

  5,755   14 (2)

Total 2018 issuances

  146,030  $372 (3)(4)
                 

January, April, August and October 2017

 

Vested restricted common stock

 

Expense

 

Four board members

 

Director compensation

  49,980  $200 

January, February and June 2017

 

Common stock

 

Expense

 

Three Employees

 

Approved bonuses

  28,634   182 (5)

January and December 2017

 

Common stock

 

Expense

 

Related party, James McKenzie

 

Pursuant to royalty agreement

  3,293   16 (5)

January and February 2017

 

Common stock

 

Expense

 

Two Employees

 

Cashless stock option exercises

  245    (6)

May 2017

 

Common stock

 

Prepaid expense/expense

 

Third-party consultant

 

Strategic investor marketing services

  15,000   57 (7)

October 2017

 

Common stock

 

Cash

 

Various third-party shareholders

 

Equity raise

  7,392,856   18,905 

Total 2017 issuances

  7,490,008  $19,360 (8)

(1)

Total excludes $36 thousand of 2019 stock compensation and $3 thousand of 2018 stock compensation related to royalties that were recorded as expense but not issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2019.

(2)

Includes bonus and royalty of $170 thousand that was accrued and expensed in 2017.

(3)

Total excludes $3 thousand of stock compensation related to royalties that were recorded as expense but not issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2018.

(4)

Excludes $24 thousand of stock compensation for stock issued in 2017 that was amortized from prepaid expense in 2018.

(5)

Includes bonuses and royalty of $176 thousand that were accrued and expensed in 2016.

(6)

The Company received $0 for the issuance in the cashless option exercises.

(7)

Amount includes $24 thousand that was included in prepaid expense at December 31, 2017.

(8)

Does not include stock expense of $170 thousand included in accrued liabilities at December 31, 2017 for unissued stock.

S-3S-3 registration and share issuances

The Company filed an S-3S-3 registration statement on March 14, 2017 July 17, 2020 containing a prospectus that was effective March 29, 2017. in September 2020. The Company utilized this filing in January 2021 to issue common stock for $45 million before costs. The Company filed a new S-3 shelf registration in January 2021, which, as amended, became effective in April 2021. With this filing, CUI Global Orbital Energy Group may from time to timetime-to-time issue various types of securities, including common stock, preferred stock, debt securities and/or warrants, up to an aggregate amount of $100$150 million. The Company utilized this S-3 registration to issue additional common stock in July 2021 for $38 million before costs of approximately $2.3 million for net proceeds of approximately $35.7million.

 

Stock Appreciation Rights ("SARS")

During the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, the Company issued SARS to five key executives in 2021 and four key executives in 2020. The number of SARS granted to each of the executives equated to the corresponding dollar amount of a portion of the cash bonus otherwise due to them pursuant to their employment agreements. The SARS are subject to acceleration upon a change in control or termination of the executive’s employment with the Company in certain circumstances. SARS granted in 2020 vest over 24 months and SARS granted in 2021 vest and are paid out on the anniversary of the grant in one-third increments on the first-, second-, and third-year anniversaries of the grant date. The Company recorded $2.1 million and $0.6 million of compensation related to SARs in the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020. Unamortized expense for SARS at December 31, 2021 was $4.3 million.

  

2021

  

2020

 

Month Issued

 

April 2021

  

June 2020

 

Number Issued

  3,770,960   1,054,687 

Interest Rate

  0.34%  6%

Estimated Volatility

  156%  130%

Stock Price at Issuance

 $4.17  $0.72 

Years to Maturity

  1.5   6 

Grant date Value per Right

 $3.56  $0.64 

 

On October 23, 2017,The 2020 grant was issued with a $1.00 exercise price. The $1.00 SAR exercise price represented approximately a 40% premium over the market price of the Company's common stock as reported on Nasdaq as of May 29, 2020. The issuance of the SARS conserved approximately $1,000,000 of the Company's cash reserves at the time of issuance. Upon exercise, the Company closed onis obligated to pay the executive an underwritten public offering of 7,392,856 shares at a public offeringamount equal to the difference between the average closing price of $2.80 per share, including 964,285 shares sold at the public offeringCompany's common stock, as reported on Nasdaq for the five (5) trading days preceding the exercise date, less the SAR exercise price pursuant to the underwriter's exercise in full of its option to purchase additional shares to cover over-allotments. The net proceeds to CUI Global (after deducting underwriting discount and other expenses payable by the Company) were approximately $18.9 million. The Company has used the net proceeds from the offering primarily for general corporate purposes, which includes operating expenses, working capital to improve and promote its commercially available products, advance product candidates, to expand international presence and commercialization.

Employee Stock Options

All options issued are presented at post reverse quantities.

On May 16, 2008 the Company’s board of directors adopted the 2008 Equity Incentive Plan (the ‘‘Equity Incentive Plan’’) and authorized 1,500,000 shares of Common Stock to fund the Plan. At the 2008 Annual Meeting of Shareholders held on September 15, 2008, the Equity Incentive Plan was approved by the Company shareholders. At the 2009 Annual Meeting of Shareholders held on September 29, 2009, the shareholders approved an amendment to the 2008 Equity Incentive Plan to increase the number of common shares issuable under the plan from 1,500,000 to 3,000,000. All of these shares have been registered under Form S-8.$1.00.

 

The 2008 Equity Incentive Plan is intended to: (a) provide incentive to employees of the Company and its affiliates to stimulate their efforts toward the continued success of the Company and to operate and manage the business in a manner that will provide for the long-term growth and profitability of the Company; (b) encourage stock ownership by employees, directors and independent contractors by providing them2021 grant was issued with a means to acquire a proprietary interest in the Company by acquiring shares of stock or to receive compensation, which is based upon appreciation in the value of Stock; and (c) provide a means of obtaining and rewarding employees, directors, independent contractors and advisors.$2.89 exercise price. 

 

The 2008 Equity Incentive Plan providesSARS were valued using a binomial lattice model. Because the SARS will be settled in cash, the obligation for them is accounted for as a liability rather than equity. Quarterly, the issuance of incentive stock options (ISOs)SARS are revalued and Non-Statutory Options (NSOs) to employees, directors and independent contractors of the Company. The Board shall determine the exercise price per share in the case of an ISO at the time an optionnew value is granted and such price shall be not less than the fair market value or 110% of fair market value in the case of a ten percent or greater stockholder. In the case of an NSO, the exercise price shall not be less than the fair market value of one share of stockamortized. Information on the grant date the option is granted. Unless otherwise determined by the Board, ISOs and NSOs granted under both plans have a maximum duration of ten years.

On January 5, 2009 the Company board of directors received and approved a written report and recommendations of the Compensation Committee, which included a detailed executive equity compensation report and market analysis and the recommendations of Compensia, Inc., a management consulting firm that provides executive compensation advisory services to compensation committees and senior management of knowledge-based companies. The Compensation Committee used the report and analysis as a basis for its formal written recommendation to the board. Pursuant to a January 8, 2009 board resolution the 2009 Equity Incentive Plan (Executive), a Non-Qualified Stock Option Plan, was created and funded with 4,200,000 shares of $0.001 par value common stock. The Compensation Committee was appointed as the Plan Administrator to manage the plan. On October 11, 2010, CUI Global authorized an additional 3,060,382 options under the 2009 Equity Incentive Plan (Executive). On September 21, 2012, CUI Global authorized an additional 330,000 options under the 2009 Equity Incentive Plan (Executive).

The 2009 Equity Incentive Plan (Executive) provides for the issuance of Incentive Non Statutory Options to attract, retain and motivate executive and management employees and directors and to encourage these individuals to acquire an equity interest in the Company, to make monetary payments to certain management employees and directors based upon the value of the Company’s stockSARS and weighted average inputs to provide these individuals with an incentive to maximize the successbinomial lattice model are as follows:

  

2021

  

2020

 

Weighted average expected term at December 31 (years)

  1.55   3.42 

Total fair value of all awards at December 31

 $6,979,824  $2,232,491 

Total fair value of all vested awards at December 31

 $2,701,802  $648,180 

Total intrinsic value at December 31

 $1,255,078  $1,255,078 

At December 31, 2021 and 2020 there were 3,126,000 and 748,000, respectively of non-vested cash-settled SARS outstanding at a weighted average fair value of $1.45 and $2.12, respectively. See Note 18 Subsequent Events regarding the Company and furtherexchange of SARS for RSUS in the interestfirst quarter of the shareholders. The Administrator of the plan is authorized to determine the exercise price per share at the time the option is granted, but the exercise price shall not be less than the fair market value on the date the option is granted. Stock options granted under the 2009 Plan have a maximum duration of ten years.2022.

 

Restricted Stock Units:

 

In 2021 the Company granted Restricted stock units to certain key employees of the Company from the Company's 2020 Incentive Award Plan. RSUs generally vest over 3 years. In 2021, there were two grants totaling 367,319 units that immediately vested. New common shares are issued for vested RSUs. RSU activity in 2021 was as follows:

  

Number of restricted stock units

  

Weighted-average grant date fair value

 
         

Non-vested shares, beginning of year

    $ 

Granted

  4,386,107   4.64 

Vested

  (1,367,319)  4.26 

Forfeited

      

Non-vested shares, end of year

  3,018,788  $4.81 

The Company recorded $10.6 million of expense related to vested RSUs in 2021. Unamortized expense on unvested RSUs was $9.7 million at December 31, 2021. Unvested RSUs have a weighted average remaining life of 1.80 years.

Employee Stock Options and other share-based compensation

At the 2020 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, the Company’s shareholders approved the Orbital Energy Group 2020 Incentive Award Plan and authorized a share limit of 2,000,000 shares. In 2021, the Company's shareholder's approved an increase in shares available for the 2020 Incentive Award Plan from a total of 2 million shares to a total of 5 million shares. As of December 31, 2021 there are 4,130,665 remaining shares available to grant under the 2020 Incentive Award Plan. This Plan replaced the 2008 and 2009 Equity Incentive Plan, which had expired. 

The purpose of the Orbital Energy Group 2020 Incentive Award Plan is to enhance our ability to attract, retain and motivate persons who make (or are expected to make) important contributions to Orbital Energy Group by providing these individuals with equity ownership opportunities. Equity awards are intended to motivate high levels of performance and align the interests of our directors, employees and consultants with those of our stockholders by giving directors, employees and consultants the perspective of an owner with an equity stake in Orbital Energy Group and providing a means of recognizing their contributions to the success of Orbital Energy Group. Our board of directors and management believe that equity awards are necessary to remain competitive in its industry and are essential to recruiting and retaining the highly qualified employees who help Orbital Energy Group meet its goals. A primary purpose of the plan is to provide OEG with appropriate capacity to issue equity compensation in anticipation of future acquisitions.

The Orbital Energy Group 2020 Incentive Award Plan provides for the grant of stock options, including ISOs and nonqualified stock options (“NSOs”), stock appreciation rights (“SARs”), restricted stock, dividend equivalents, restricted stock units (“RSUs”) and other stock or cash-based awards. Certain awards under the Orbital Energy Group 2020 Incentive Award Plan may constitute or provide for payment of “nonqualified deferred compensation” under Section 409A of the Code. All awards under the Orbital Energy Group 2020 Incentive Award Plan will be set forth in the award agreement, which will detail the terms and conditions of awards, including any applicable vesting and payment terms and post termination exercise limitations. All awards shall be subject to a minimum vesting of one year from the Grant Date. A brief description of each award type follows.

Stock Options and SARs. Stock options provide for the purchase of shares of common stock of Orbital Energy Group in the future at an exercise price set on the grant date. ISOs, in contrast to NSOs, may provide tax deferral beyond exercise and favorable capital gains tax treatment to their holders if certain holding period and other requirements of the Code are satisfied. SARs entitle their holder, upon exercise, to receive from Orbital Energy Group an amount equal to the appreciation of the shares subject to the award between the grant date and the exercise date. The plan administrator will determine the number of shares covered by each option and SAR, the exercise price of each option and SAR and the conditions and limitations applicable to the exercise of each option and SAR. The exercise price of a stock option or SAR will not be less than 100% of the fair market value of the underlying share on the grant date (or 110% in the case of ISOs granted to certain significant stockholders), except with respect to certain substitute awards granted in connection with a corporate transaction. The term of a stock option or SAR may not be longer than five years.

Restricted Stock. Restricted stock is an award of nontransferable shares of common stock of Orbital Energy Group that remain forfeitable unless and until specified conditions are met and which may be subject to a purchase price. Upon issuance of restricted stock, recipients generally have the rights of a stockholder with respect to such shares, which generally include the right to receive dividends and other distributions in relation to the award. The terms and conditions applicable to restricted stock will be determined by the plan administrator, subject to the conditions and limitations contained in the Orbital Energy Group 2020 Incentive Award Plan.

RSUsRSUs are contractual promises to deliver shares of common stock of Orbital Energy Group in the future, which may also remain forfeitable unless and until specified conditions are met and may be accompanied by the right to receive the equivalent value of dividends paid on shares of common stock of Orbital Energy Group prior to the delivery of the underlying shares (i.e., dividend equivalent rights). The Company accounts for forfeitures of employee awards as they occur. The plan administrator may provide that the delivery of the shares underlying RSUs will be deferred on a mandatory basis or at the election of the participant. The terms and conditions applicable to RSUs will be determined by the plan administrator, subject to the conditions and limitations contained in the Orbital Energy Group 2020 Incentive Award Plan.

Other Stock or Cash Based Awards. Other stock or cash-based awards are awards of cash, shares of common stock of Orbital Energy Group and other awards valued wholly or partially by referring to, or otherwise based on, shares of common stock of Orbital Energy Group or other property. Other stock or cash-based awards may be granted to participants and may also be available as a payment form in the settlement of other awards, as standalone payments and as payment in lieu of compensation to which a participant is otherwise entitled. The plan administrator will determine the terms and conditions of other stock or cash-based awards, which may include any purchase price, performance goal, transfer restrictions and vesting conditions, subject to the conditions and limitations in the Orbital Energy Group 2020 Incentive Award Plan.

The Orbital Energy Group 2020 Incentive Award Plan provides that the plan administrator may establish compensation for non-employee directors from time to time subject to the Orbital Energy Group 2020 Incentive Award Plan’s limitations. The plan administrator will from time to time determine the terms, conditions and amounts of all non-employee director compensation in its discretion and pursuant to the exercise of its business judgment, taking into account such factors, circumstances and considerations as it shall deem relevant from time to time, provided that, the sum of any cash compensation or other compensation and the grant date fair value of any equity awards granted under the Orbital Energy Group 2020 Incentive Award Plan as compensation for services as a non-employee director during any fiscal year may not exceed $250,000 per year of a non-employee director’s service as a non-employee director. The non-employee Director receiving such additional compensation may not participate in the decision to award such compensation or in other contemporaneous compensation decisions involving the non-employee Director.

82

A summary of the stock options issuedgranted to employees and directors and changes during the year are presented below:

 

 

For the Year Ended December 31, 2019

  

For the Year Ended December 31, 2021

 
 

Number of

Options

  

Weighted

Average

Exercise Price

($)

  

Weighted

Average

Remaining

Contract Life (years)

  

Aggregate

Intrinsic Value

($ '000)

  

Number of Options

 

Weighted Average Exercise Price ($)

 

Weighted Average Remaining Contract Life (years)

 

Aggregate Intrinsic Value ($ '000)

 

Balance at beginning of year

  923,898  $6.32   3.64  $  790,648  $6.06  2.11  $ 

Expired

  (74,263

)

  7.22         

Exercised

 (214,596) $6.00   

Forfeited in cash exercise

  (338,067)  6.05     

Balance at end of year

  849,635  $6.24   2.95      237,985  $6.14   1.41    

Exercisable

  849,635  $6.24   2.95     237,985  $6.14  1.41   

 

As of December 31, 2019, 2018, 2021 and 20172020 all issued and outstanding stock options were fully vested. There was no unamortized expense related to unvested stock options at December 31, 2021 and 2020. There were no options granted during 2019, 2018 or 2017. As of December 31, 2019, there are no remaining shares available to grant under these equity incentive plans.2021 and 2020.

 

 

11.          RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

During 2019, 2018 and 2017, $0.2 million, $0.3 million and $0.3 million, respectively in interest payments were made in relation to the promissory notes issued to related party, IED, see Note 7 Notes Payable, for further details.

 

Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors, Chief Legal Counsel, and former Chief Executive Officer, William J. Clough’s son Nicholas J. Clough, serves as Vice President atof Greenfield Operations, Orbital Gas Systems, North America, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company,Energy Group. In 2021 and as Chief Sales Officer for the Energy Division. In 2019, 2018, and 2017,2020, Mr. Clough received an aggregate salary of $269 thousand, $213$360 thousand and $200$335 thousand, respectively, and received a cash bonus of $158 thousand, $150$309 thousand and $150$60 thousand in fiscal 2019, 2018,2021 and 2017,2020, respectively. In April 2021, Mr. Clough was granted 235,876 stock appreciation rights with a grant date fair value of $840 thousand. These SARS were to vest and be payable on the first, second and third anniversaries of the grant date. In 2020, Mr. Clough was awarded 67,187 cash-settled stock appreciation rights with a grant date fair value of $40 thousand, vesting evenly over 2 years, an exercise price of $1.00 and a 6 year term. He also received other benefits valued at $43 thousand and $49 thousand $49 thousand,in 2021 and $41 thousand in 2019, 2018, and 2017,2020, respectively. As of December 31, 2019 2021 and 2018,2020, there was an accrual of $0 thousand and $13$142 thousand, respectively, for compensation accrued to Nicholas J. Clough. Nicholas J. Clough does not report to the William J. Clough nor does William J. Clough have input regarding Nicholas J. Clough’s salary, bonus, or performance. Mr. Clough’s salary and bonus is set by his direct supervisor and relevant market conditions, while his performance is evaluated and monitored by his direct supervisor. In addition, pursuant to Company policy, any related-party bonus and/or salary change in excess of $50,000 is independently reviewed and approved by the Company’s Compensation Committee, comprised of Independent Board Members from the Company’s Board of Directors.

 

The Company's Front Line Power Construction, LLC subsidiary has an operating lease for a facility with Danbury Property Company LLC in Rosharon, Texas with a base rental of $10,500 per month. Danbury Property Company, LLC is owned by Kurt Johnson and Tidal Power, which are greater than 5% shareholders of Orbital employs three ownersEnergy Group, Inc.

The Company's Front Line Power Construction, LLC subsidiary has an operating lease for a facility with Manvel Property Management in Rosharon, Texas with a base rent of EnDet, Ltd. from which$4,000 per month. Tidal Power, a greater than 5% shareholder of Orbital Energy Group, Inc. has an ownership interest in Manvel Property Management.

The Company's Front Line Power Construction, LLC subsidiary has an operating lease for a facility with  Oak Property Group in Rosharon, Texas with a base rent of $2,000 per month. Tidal Power, a greater than 5% shareholder of Orbital Energy Group, Inc. has an ownership interest in Oak Property Group.

Kurt Johnson, a greater than 5% shareholder of Orbital Energy Group, Inc. has an employment contract with the Company's Front Line Power Construction, LLC facility with a base compensation ranging up to $250,000 per year. 

Kurt Johnson, a greater than 5% shareholder has two unsecured promissory notes with the Company licenses its VE Technology. See Note 9 - Commitmentsfor $34,256,000 and Contingencies - Commissions, Royalty$1,090,000, earning interest at 6% and License Fee Agreements for more informationmaturing on license fee agreements.May 17, 2022.

 

 

12.     ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE LOSS

 

The components of accumulated other comprehensive loss are as follows:

 

(In thousands)

 

As of December 31,

  

As of December 31,

 
 

2019

  

2018

  

2021

 

2020

 

Foreign currency translation adjustment

 $(4,371

)

 $(4,396

)

 $(3,995) $(4,406)

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

 $(4,371

)

 $(4,396

)

 $(3,995) $(4,406)

 

 

13.     RESTRUCTURING AND IMPAIRMENT CHARGES

 

Restructuring Charges

During the fourth quarter of 2019, the Company completed the sale of its largest group within the Power and Electromechanical segment. The remaining assets remain held-for-sale. However, in conjunction with thatCompany completed the sale it was concluded that should the remaining power and electromechanicalof its Japan operations not sell, theas of September 30, 2020. The Company will fulfill its backlog obligations and wind down the remaining operations of CUI-Canada and CUI Japan during 2020. As such, the Company has recorded an accrued liability of $3.1$4.0 million Canadian dollars ($3.1 million US dollars at December 31, 2019) for estimated employee termination costs. The termination costs are expected to begin during 2020 based around backlog production and delivery schedule requirements. Thethe lease for the CUI-Canada facility completes during expired in the fourth quarter of 2020. This termination accrual was adjusted down by $0.3 million Canadian dollars ($0.2 million US dollars) based on updated estimates in 2020. The termination costs began to be paid out in the third quarter of 2020 and the CUI Japan lease includes a four-month notice period to terminate. Duringmajority of the remaining accrual was paid in the fourth quarter of 2019,2020. The remaining termination accrual at December 31, 2020 was $0.4 million (see table below). All restructuring costs related to CUI-Canada are included in the Company performed an impairment assessment forstatement of operations on the remaining power and electromechanical assets, resultingline labeled Income from operations of discontinued operations.

Activity in $0.3 million of impairments associated with CUI-Canada goodwill, CUI-Japan goodwill, and certain CUI-Canada acquisition intangibles that were written off.the termination benefit liability in 2021 is as follows:

  

For the Years ended December 31,

     

CUI-Canada termination benefits (In thousands)

 

2021

  

2020

 
         

January 1 liability balance

 $371  $3,073 

Severance accrual adjustments

  0   (247)

Severance payouts

  (376)  (2,448)

Translation

  5   (7)

December 31 liability balance

 $0  $371 

 

 

14. INCOME TAXES

 

(Loss) income before income taxes consisted of the following:

 

(In thousands)

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

  

For the Years Ended December 31,

 
 

2019

  

2018

  

2017

  

2021

  

2020

 

Continuing operations

 $(16,582

)

 $(22,666

)

 $(16,196

)

 $(60,351) $(27,153)

Discontinued operations

  12,908   5,135   2,001   (12,705)  (3,097)

Loss before income taxes

 $(3,674

)

 $(17,531

)

 $(14,195

)

 $(73,056) $(30,250)

 

Loss from continuing operations before taxes consisted of the following:    

 

(In thousands)

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

  

For the Years Ended December 31,

 
 

2019

  

2018

  

2017

  

2021

  

2020

 

U.S. operations

 $(11,278

)

 $(9,684

)

 $(8,792

)

 $(60,351) $(27,153)

Foreign operations

  (5,304

)

  (12,982

)

  (7,404

)

Loss before income taxes

 $(16,582

)

 $(22,666

)

 $(16,196

)

 $(60,351) $(27,153)

 

The income tax (benefit) expense allocation for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018,2021 and 20172020 consisted of the following:

 

(In thousands)

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

  

For the Years Ended December 31,

 
 

2019

  

2018

  

2017

  

2021

  

2020

 

Continuing operations

 $(2,956

)

 $(1,342

)

 $(2,251

)

 $(10,508) $(1,451)

Discontinued operations

  411   1,136   645   (1,334)  (1,352)

Total income tax (benefit)

 $(2,545

)

 $(206

)

 $(1,606

)

 $(11,842) $(2,803)

 

The income tax (benefit) expense from continuing operations consisted of the following:

 

(In thousands)

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

  

For the Years Ended December 31,

 
 

2019

  

2018

  

2017

  

2021

  

2020

 

Current:

             

Federal

 $  $  $  $0  $0 

State and local

           370  119 

Foreign

         

Total current provision

           370   119 

Deferred:

             

Federal

  (2,368

)

  (894

)

  (1,370

)

 

(8,714

) (1,258)

State and local

  (588

)

  (142

)

  (1

)

  (2,164)  (312)

Foreign

     (306

)

  (880

)

Total deferred (benefit)

  (2,956

)

  (1,342

)

  (2,251

)

  (10,878)  (1,570)

Total income tax (benefit)

 $(2,956

)

 $(1,342

)

 $(2,251

)

 $(10,508) $(1,451)

 

The following table provides a reconciliation of the federal statutory tax at 21% to the recorded tax expense (benefit) from continuing operations for the years ended December 31, 20192021 and 2018, respectively, and 34% to the recorded tax expense (benefit) for the year ended December 31, 2017:2020, respectively:

 

(In thousands)

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

  

For the Years Ended December 31,

 
 

2019

  

2018

  

2017

  

2021

  

2020

 

Computed federal income taxes at the statutory rate (benefit)

 $(3,482

)

 $(4,760

)

 $(5,507

)

 $(12,674) $(5,702)

Permanent tax differences

  (23

)

  (122

)

  (262

)

State taxes

 292 $94 

Permanent tax differences and limited compensation

 2,140 (34)

Foreign tax rates and tax credits differing from USA

  435   747   1,021  0 0 

Purchased goodwill and intangible impairments

     828   1,072 

Expired NOL's

 541 0 

Refundable Foreign R&D Credits

   

Change in valuation allowance

  114   1,965   1,425   (807)  4,191 

Total income tax (benefit)

 $(2,956

)

 $(1,342

)

 $(2,251

)

 $(10,508) $(1,451)
                 

Effective tax rate

  17.83

%

  5.92

%

  13.90

%

 17.41% 5.34%

 

The Company accounts for income taxes under the asset-liability method. Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. Valuation allowances are provided when it is “more likely than not” that the benefits of existing deferred tax assets will not be realized in a future period. Significant components of the Company’s deferred tax assets and liabilities as

of December 31, 2019 2021 and 2018,2020, respectively, are as follows:

 

(In thousands)

 

As of December 31,

  

As of December 31,

 
 

2019

  

2018

  

2021

  

2020

 

Deferred tax assets:

             

Net operating loss carryforwards

 $12,130  $12,317  $23,941 $19,198 

Inventory and accounts receivable reserves

  306   234  1,826 2,104 

Operating lease obligations

 8,058 1,801 

Accrued liabilities

 786 927 

Other

  1,956   569  4,371 1,209 

Valuation allowance

  (12,447

)

  (12,333

)

  (20,129)  (19,817)

Deferred tax assets after valuation allowance

  1,945   787  18,853 5,422 

Deferred tax liabilities

             

Intangible assets

  (476

)

  (848

)

 (9,426) (3,274)

Property, plant and equipment

  (1,469

)

  61   (9,588)  (2,050)

Total deferred tax liabilities

  (1,945

)

  (787

)

  (19,014)  (5,324)

Net deferred tax asset (liability)

 $  $  $(161) $98 

 

The Company adopted the provisions of ASU 2015-172015-17 in 2015. ASU 2015-172015-17 requires that all deferred tax assets and liabilities be classified as noncurrent on the balance sheet. The net deferred tax asset as of December 31, 2021 is recorded within other assets and the net deferred tax liability is recorded as of December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 as follows were zero for both year-end dates:2020 was zero.

 

As of December 31, 2019 2021 and 2018,2020, the Company recorded a valuation allowance of $12.4$20.1 million and $12.3$19.8 million, respectively. During the yearyears ended December 31, 2019 2021 and 2018,2020, the Company recorded an increase in valuation allowance of $0.1$0.3 million and $2.0$7.4 million, respectively. The state taxes included in the rate reconciliation table is net of the change in state valuation allowance. As of December 31, 2019, 2021, the Company has available federal, state and foreign net operating loss carry forwards of approximately $37.2$97.3 million, $32.3$21.3 million and $15.5$16.5 million, respectively which have various expiration dates beginning in 20272026 through 2038.2037.

 

The Company files consolidated income tax returns for federal and many state jurisdictions in addition to separate subsidiary income tax returns in Australia, Canada, JapanIndia and the United Kingdom. The Company has an insignificant amount of foreign taxes that have not been separately presented. As of December 31, 2019, 2021, the Company is not under examination by any income tax jurisdiction. The Company is no longer subject to examination in the USA for years prior to 2016.2018.

 

The Company accounts for income tax uncertainties using a threshold of "more-likely-than-not""more-likely-than-not" in accordance with the provisions of ASC Topic 740, Income Taxes ("ASC 740"). As of December 31, 2019,2021, the Company has reviewed all of its tax filings and positions taken on its returns and has not identified any material current or future effect on its consolidated results of operations, cash flows or financial position. As such, the Company has not recorded any tax, penalties or interest on tax uncertainties. It is Company policy to record any interest on tax uncertainties as a component of income tax expense.

 

 

15.      CONCENTRATIONS

During 2019, 31%2021, 26% of revenues were derived from two customers that individually had over 10% of our total revenues: S&B EngineersCustomer 1 with 21%15% and Costain Oil, Gas & Process LtdCustomer 2 with 10%11%. During 2018, 27%2020, 53% of revenues were derived from twothree customers that individually had over 10% of our total revenues: National GridCustomer 3 with 15%31%, Customer 4 with 11% and S&B Engineers with 12%. During 2017, 55% of revenues were derived from three customers that individually had over 10% of our total revenues: National Grid with 26%, Scotia Gas Networks with 18%, and S&B EngineersCustomer 5 with 11%.

 

The Company’s major product lines in 2019, 20182021 were electric power transmission and 2017distribution maintenance and service, utility-scale solar construction projects and telecommunications maintenance and services and in 2020 were electric power transmission and distribution maintenance and service, utility-scale solar construction projects and natural gas infrastructure solutions.

 

At December 31, 2019, 2021, of the gross trade accounts receivable totaling approximately $5.3$50.2 million, threetwo individual customers that made up approximately 50%46% of the Company's total trade accounts receivable: Energy TransferCustomer 2 at 24%, Costain Oil, Gas30% and Process LtdCustomer 6 at 14% and S&B Engineers at 12%16%. At December 31, 2018, 2020, of the gross trade accounts receivable totaling approximately $5.1$6.9 million, approximately 38%70% was due from twofour customers: Costain Oil, Gas & Process LtdCustomer 7 at 24%27%, Customer 8 at 16%, Customer 9 at 16% and National GridCustomer 10 at 14%11%.

 

ThereFor the 12 months endedDecember 31, 2021, there was one supplier concentration of approximately 12%. For the 12 months endedDecember 31, 2020, there were no suppliers greater than 10%three supplier concentrations that made up 39% of purchases in 2019, 2018 or 2017.expenditures at 14%, 13% and 12%.

 

WithFor the operations of Orbital UK,years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, the Company hashad no foreign revenue andconcentrations or foreign trade accounts receivable concentrations inoutside the United Kingdom. For the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, the Company had foreign revenue concentrations in the United Kingdom of 57%, 74%, and 77%, respectively. Also during the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, the Company had trade accounts receivable concentrations in the United Kingdom of 49%, 80%, and 79%, respectively.States.

 

 

16. LEASES

 

Effective January 1, 2019, the Company implemented the new accounting guidance on leases found in ASC 842, Leases. As part of its transition, the Company elected to utilize the transition method of adoption. Under the transition method, the Company includes the new required disclosures for the current period and provides the disclosures required by the previous guidance found in ASC 840 for the prior year comparative periods. In addition, the Company elected the package of practical expedients permitted under the transition guidance within the new standard, which among other things, allowed the Company to carry forward the historical lease classifications and allowed the Company to exclude leases with an initial term of 12 months or less (after consideration of renewal options) from being recorded on the Company's consolidated balance sheet; the Company recognizes lease expense for these short-term leases on a straight-line basis over the lease term. At December 31, 20192021 the Company did not factor in any renewal options when calculating its consolidated right-of-use assets and lease obligations as the options were not considered reasonably certain to be exercised. As most of our leases do not provide an implicit rate, we use our incremental borrowing rate based on the information available at the commencement date in determining the present value of future payments. The Company reviewed outstanding service contracts to determine if any of the Company's service contracts contained an embedded lease. Determining whether a contract contains a lease requires judgement. The Company did not identify any new leases through this process. The new lease accounting guidance also changes the name of leases formerly referred to as Capital leases under ASC 840 to Financing leases under ASC 842.

In December 2018, the Company entered into a sale-lease back transaction to sell and leaseback the CUI, Inc. Tualatin facility. The Company sold the Tualatin headquarters and warehouse for $8.1 million at a deferred gain of $2.9 million and has leased back the facility for approximately $53 thousand per month until December 2028. The lease includes two options to renew the term for periods of five years each at the then prevailing market rate per rentable square foot for the premises. As a result of the implementation and transition to the accounting guidance in ASC 842, the deferred gain was recognized on January 1, 2019 as a credit to accumulated deficit.

 

Orbital-UK has a number of operating leases on vehicles, equipment,The Company rents office space and accommodationswarehouse space, which it uses for visiting personnel. the Corporate Headquarters in Houston, Texas through December 2022. During the year ended December 31, 2019, the monthly combined2021, rent expense on these leasesthis lease was approximately $35 thousand.$38 thousand per month. In addition, the company has two corporate leases in Portland, Oregon, one running through April 2022 and another running through December 2028. These leases when combined approximate $25 thousand monthly as of December 31, 2021.

 

The Company rentssublets office and warehouse space in Houston,Irving, Texas for corporate support services and Orbital Power Inc. office personnel; the lease runs through December 2022 and have one truck2023. Orbital Power Inc. also maintains an equipment yard in Sherman, Texas that houses equipment primarily for Orbital Power, Inc. for which the lease and a copier lease.runs until 2022. During the year ended December 31, 2019, 2021, rent expense on these leases were a combined approximately $33average of $11 thousand per month.

Eclipse Foundation Group entered into two property leases in 2021 in Gonzales, Louisiana, both with two-year lease terms. During the year ended December 31, 2021, rent expense on these leases were a combined average of $10 thousand per month.

Orbital Power Inc. and Eclipse Foundation Group rent equipment as well as vehicles for use on their jobs. These vehicle leases range from 3 to 7-year terms. During the year ended December 31, 2021, rent expense on operating leases when combined approximated $0.2 million monthly. Depreciation and interest expense on finance leases at Orbital Power, Inc. and Eclipse Foundation for the year ending December 31, 2021 averaged $0.2 million monthly.

Gibson Technical Services leases four properties, one in Georgia, North Carolina, Louisiana, and New York with lease terms ranging from 2-8 years. During the year ended December 31, 2021, rent expense on these leases were a combined average of $18 thousand per month. In addition, Gibson Technical Services rents multiple pieces of equipment. Rent expenses on these equipment leases combined were approximately $27 thousand per month. IMMCO, a subsidiary of Gibson Technical Services, rents three office spaces in Kochi, India. Rent expenses on these leases when combined approximate $5 thousand per month with one lease running through 2023 and two leases running through 2026.

Front Line Power Construction rents three office spaces in Rosharon, Texas that run through November 2024. Rent expense on these leases when combined approximate $17 thousand per month. In addition, Front Line Power Construction has finance equipment leases at December 31, 2021 that approximate $32 thousand monthly in depreciation and interest expense.

The Company rents office and warehouse lease includes two options to renew the term for periodsindustrial space in Sanford, North Carolina through July 2022 as well as multiple pieces of five years each at the then prevailing market rateequipment. Rent expense on these leases were a combined approximately $46 thousand per rentable square foot for the premises.month.

 

Consolidated rental expense on operating leases was $1.3$4.4 million and depreciation on financing leases was $2.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2019 2021 and is included in cost of revenue and selling, general and administrative expense, on the condensed consolidated statement of operations. Interest expense for finance leases was $0.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2021.

 

 

Future minimum operating lease obligations for continuing operations at December 31, 20192021 are as follows for the years ended December 31:

 

(In thousands)

    

2020

 $1,173 

2021

  1,074 

2022

  1,063 

2023

  609 

2024

  626 

Thereafter

  2,688 
     

Interest portion

  (1,560

)

     

Total operating lease obligations

 $5,673 

(In thousands)

    

2022

 $5,767 

2023

  4,925 

2024

  3,864 

2025

  2,218 

2026

  1,875 

Thereafter

  2,714 
     

Less interest portion

  (3,134)
     

Total operating lease obligations

 $18,229 

 

Total lease cost and other lease information is as follows:

 

 

For the Year

 

For the Year

 
 

Ended

 

Ended

 
 

December 31,

 

December 31,

 
 

For the Year

Ended

December 31,

2019

  

2021

  

2020

 

(In thousands)

     

Operating lease cost

 $1,016  $3,897  $1,626 

Short-term lease cost

  205  265  12 

Variable lease cost

  122  732  408 

Sublease income

  (55

)

  (501)  (332)

Total lease cost

 $1,288  $4,393  $1,714 
     

Other information

     

Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease obligations:

     

Operating cash flows used in operating leases

 $(1,210

)

 $(3,515) $(1918)

Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new operating lease obligations

 $6,473 * $13,707  $2,050 

Weighted-average remaining lease term - operating leases (in years)

  7.4  4.6  

5.5

 
    

Weighted-average discount rate - operating leases

  6.4

%

 6.9% 6.6%

 

* Includes $7.7 million recorded at the date of implementation of ASC 842 on January 1, 2019 less $1.5 million later reclassified to assets held for sale at our discontinued operations.Future minimum finance lease obligations are as follows:

(In thousands)

    

2022

 $5,729 

2023

  5,729 

2024

  4,251 

2025

  321 

2026

  255 

Thereafter

  0 

Less interest portion

  (1,407)

Total financing lease obligations

 $14,878 

Total financing lease costs are as follows:

  

For the Year

  

For the Year

 
  

Ended

  

Ended

 
  

December 31,

  

December 31,

 
  

2021

  

2020

 
         

Depreciation of financing lease assets

 $2,166  $0 

Interest on lease liabilities

  402   0 

Total finance lease cost

 $2,568  $0 
         
         

Other information

        

Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease obligations:

        

Operating cash flows used in financing leases

 $(402) $0 

Financing cash flows from financing leases

 $(1,995) $0 

Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new financing lease obligations

 $16,868  $0 

Weighted-average remaining lease term - financing leases (in years)

  2.9    
         

Weighted-average discount rate - financing leases

  6.5%  0 

 

Variable lease costs primarily include common area maintenance costs, real estate taxes and insurance costs passed through to the Company from lessors.

 

17.         Business Combinations 

Front Line Power Construction, LLC

On November 17, 2021, Kurt A. Johnson, Jr. (the Active Seller) and Tidal Power Group LLC, a Texas limited liability company (the Passive Seller and together with the Active Seller, collectively, the Sellers), and Orbital Energy Group, Inc., a Colorado corporation (Buyer or the Company) entered into a Membership Unit Purchase Agreement (the Purchase Agreement).  Under the Purchase Agreement, the Company purchased all of the issued and outstanding membership interests of Front Line Power Construction, LLC (FLP) from the Sellers for the purpose of expanding the Company’s market opportunities and creating synergies. FLP is a Houston-based full-service electrical infrastructure service company that provides construction, maintenance, and emergency response services. The Company has included the financial results of FLP in the consolidated financial statements from the date of acquisition and recorded $9.2 million of revenues and $98 thousand loss for the period from November 17, 2021 through December 31, 2021. The transaction costs associated with the acquisition were approximately $230 thousand and were recorded in general and administrative expense. The acquisition date fair value of the consideration transferred for FLP was approximately $219.2 million, which consisted of the following (in thousands):

Cash

 $101,536 

Working capital adjustment payable

  14,092 

Fair value of unsecured promissory notes

  86,001 

Fair value of common stock issued to Sellers

  17,612 

Fair value of purchase consideration

 $219,241 

The cash consideration paid by the Buyer includes cash paid to the Sellers of $101.5 million, cash paid for the Sellers indebtedness of $1.0 million, and cash paid for the Sellers transaction expenses of $4.4 million. The Company funded the FLP acquisition through the issuance of a $105 million term loan on November 17, 2021, with a maturity date of November 21, 2026 (see Note 7).

The Buyer issued two unsecured promissory notes to the Sellers of FLP, in the aggregate principal amount outstanding of $86.7 million (the Seller Notes) and an estimated fair value of $86.0 million. The Seller Notes are due in full, including any accrued and unpaid interest, on May 17, 2022 and accrue interest at a rate of 6% per annum. The Sellers also received a total of 11,622,018 shares of restricted common stock of the Buyer. The fair value of the unsecured promissory notes and the Buyer equity issued to Sellers was estimated using a market approach. 

The Company accounted for the acquisition as a business combination in accordance with ASC Topic 805,Business Combinations.  The Company applied the acquisition method, which requires the assets acquired and liabilities assumed be recorded at fair value with limited exceptions. The following table summarizes the fair values of assets and preliminary purchase price allocation for assets acquired and liabilities assumed as of the date of acquisition (in thousands):

Cash and cash equivalents

 $6,779 

Trade accounts receivable

  15,726 

Contract assets

  2,092 

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

  481 

Property and equipment

  18,730 

Other long-term assets

  531 

Indefinite lived intangible assets

  15,027 

Definite lived intangible assets

  93,211 

Accounts payable

  (620)

Contract liabilities

  (120)

Accrued expenses

  (2,747)

Net assets acquired

  149,090 

Goodwill

  70,151 

Purchase price allocation

 $219,241 

The excess of the fair value of purchase consideration over the fair value of net tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired was recorded as goodwill, which is primarily attributed to the assembled workforce, synergies, and expanded market opportunities, for which there is no basis for U.S. income tax purposes.  Goodwill amounts are not amortized, but are rather tested for impairment at least annually during the second quarter.

The following lease disclosurestable sets forth the components of identifiable intangible assets acquired and their estimated useful lives as of December 31, 2018 for continuing operations were required under previous accounting guidance under ASC 840 and under the transition guidancedate of ASC 842:acquisition (in thousands):

 

CUI executed

  

Fair Value

 

Useful Life

Customer relationships

 $84,012 

15 years

Backlog

  9,186 

1 year

Tradename

  15,027 

Indefinite

Software

  13 

3 years

Total intangible assets

 $108,238  

Full Moon Telecom, LLC

Effective October 22, 2021, the Company's subsidiary, Gibson Technical Services, Inc. ("GTS") entered into and closed uponsale-leaseback transactionPurchase Agreement by and among the Company and the owners of its Tualatin, Oregon headquarters facility in DecemberFull Moon Telecom, LLC (“Full Moon”). Full Moon is a Florida-based privately-owned telecommunications service provider that offers an extensive array of 2018. There was $16 thousandwireless service capabilities and experience including Layer 2/Layer3 Transport, Radio Access Network (“RAN”) Integration, test and turn-up of rent expense associated with this lease in 2018.Small Cell systems and Integration/Commissioning of Distributed Antenna (“DAS”) systems.

 

Orbital-UKThe acquisition adds revenues and was accretive to earnings for GTS and OEG in its first fiscal quarter with the Company. Full Moon is a wholly-owned subsidiary of GTS, expanding GTS’s service offerings to its customers.

Full Moon’s additional capabilities include providing site surveys, regulatory support, project management, continuous wave testing, scanner walks, optimization/data collection and E911 data validation and testing.  These additional skill sets combined with Full Moon’s RAN integration and DAS commissioning efforts have allowed for an expanded service offering and turnkey approach to ensuring the on time delivery and quality on end-to-end solutions to wireless customers.

Subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the Purchase Agreement, the purchase consideration for 100% of the ownership of Full Moon was $2.0 million, with the consideration structured as follows:

$1.2 million in cash paid at closing less the amount needed to pay certain outstanding debt of Full Moon; and plus or minus the amount needed for estimated closing working capital to equal a 2 to 1 ratio; and

227,974 shares of restricted common stock issued to the Full Moon owners with an aggregate fair value of $368 thousand based upon a per share value of $1.614. 

The Purchase Agreement provided for the adjustment of the selling price to adjust the final closing working capital at the acquisition date as a post-closing adjustment for net working capital above or below a 2-1 ratio for the closing working capital ratio estimated on the acquisition date and to be finalized within 45 days after the closing date of October 22, 2021. This was calculated to be an additional $381 thousand of cash consideration. 

The Purchase Agreement contains various customary representations, warranties and covenants.

The Company accounted for the acquisition as a business combination in accordance with ASC Topic 805,Business Combinations.  The Company applied the acquisition method, which requires the assets acquired and liabilities assumed be recorded at fair value with limited exceptions. The following table summarizes the fair values and preliminary purchase of assets acquired and liabilities assumed as of the date of acquisition (in thousands):

Cash and cash equivalents

 $747 

Trade accounts receivable

  297 

Property and equipment

  124 

Intangible, Tradename (indefinite)

  159 

Intangible, Customer relationships (10-year life)

  210 

Accounts payable

  (197)

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

  (182)

Net assets acquired

  1,158 

Goodwill

  826 

Purchase price allocation

 $1,984 

The Company has included the financial results of Full Moon Telecom, LLC in the consolidated financial statements from the date of acquisition and recorded $1.0 million of revenues and $0.3 million of earnings for the period from October 22, 2021 through December 31, 2021.

IMMCO, Inc.

Effective July 28, 2021, the Company entered into a numbershare purchase agreement to acquire IMMCO, Inc., an Atlanta-based telecommunications company providing enterprise solutions to the cable and telecommunications industries since 1992. The acquisition was effectuated pursuant to the Share Purchase Agreement (the “Agreement”), with the shareholders of leases, on vehicles, equipment,IMMCO (the "Seller"). Orbital Energy Group paid $16 million and on accommodationsissued 874,317 shares of restricted common stock issued to the Seller ($2.5 million estimated fair value as of July 28, 2021) plus a $0.6 million working capital adjustment for visiting personnel. Duringa combined total of $19.1 million. Goodwill reflects the excess purchase price over the fair value of net assets. The Company recorded $11.0 million of goodwill as part of this transaction and all of this goodwill is deductible for tax purposes. Acquisition-related expenses incurred during the year ended December 31, 2018,2021 for the monthly combined rent on these leases wasIMMCO acquisitions were approximately $32 thousand.$0.6 million before taxes, which were recognized within the Selling, general and administrative expense line of the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations.

 

In January 2015, the Company rented office and warehouse space in Houston, Texas for its Orbital North America operations. During the year ended December 31, 2017, the monthly rent of this lease, which terminated in January 2018,The purchase consideration was approximately $10 thousand. In November 2017, the Company relocated to another rented office and warehouse space in Houston, Texas. Rent expense on this lease is approximately $30 thousand per month.as follows (in thousands):

Purchase Consideration

    
     

Cash payment

 $16,597 

Fair value of common stock issued to Sellers

  2,024 

Total

 $18,621 

 

Rental expenseThe acquisition was accounted for using the purchase method of accounting and the purchase price was allocated to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed based upon their estimated preliminary fair values at the date of acquisition (in thousands):

Cash and cash equivalents

 $1,634 

Trade accounts receivable, net

  1,254 

Contract assets

  1,001 

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

  1,088 

Property and equipment

  760 

Intangible, customer relationships

  3,800 

Intangible, trade name

  1,162 

Intangible, technology know how

  1,459 

Other long-term assets

  76 

Deferred tax liability

  (2,090)

Liabilities assumed

  (2,100)

Net assets acquired

  8,044 

Goodwill

  10,577 

Purchase price allocation

 $18,621 

The Company has included the financial results of IMMCO, Inc.in the consolidated financial statements from continuing operationsthe date of acquisition and recorded $3.7 million of revenues and $2.8 million of net income for the period from October 22, 2021 through December 31, 2021.The deferred tax liability recorded at acquisition was $0.8 millionoffset against the Company's valuation allowance and recorded as a tax benefit in 20182021 within the income tax benefit line of the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations and is included in selling,the net income of IMMCO, Inc. 

Gibson Technical Services, Inc.

Effective April 13, 2021, the Company entered into a share purchase agreement to acquire Gibson Technical Services, an Atlanta-based telecommunications company providing diversified telecommunications services nationally since 1990. The acquisition was effectuated pursuant to the Share Purchase Agreement (the “Agreement”), dated as of April 13, 2021, between Orbital Energy Group and the shareholders of GTS (the "Seller"). Orbital Energy Group paid $22 million and issued 5,929,267 shares of restricted common stock issued to the Seller ($16.9 million estimated fair value as of April 13, 2021) for a combined total of $38.9 million. Goodwill reflects the excess purchase price over the fair value of net assets. The Company recorded $12.3 million of goodwill as part of this transaction and all of this goodwill is deductible for tax purposes. Acquisition-related expenses incurred during the yearended December 31,2021 were approximately $0.9 million before tax which were recognized within the Selling, general and administrative expense online of the statementCondensed Consolidated Statements of operationsOperations.

The purchase consideration was as follows (in thousands):

Cash payment

 $22,000 

Fair value of common stock issued to Sellers

  16,932 

Total

 $38,932 

The acquisition was accounted for using the purchase method of accounting and the purchase price was allocated to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed based upon their estimated preliminary fair values at the date of acquisition (in thousands).

Cash and cash equivalents

 $610 

Trade accounts receivable

  7,871 

Contract assets

  1,686 

Contingent receivable

  1,424 

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

  408 

Property and equipment

  3,795 

Right of use assets - Operating leases

  860 

Intangible, customer relationships (10-year life)

  16,075 

Intangible, tradename (indefinite life)

  6,388 

Intangible, non-compete agreements (5-year life)

  385 

Other long-term assets

  123 

Deferred tax liability

  (9,048)

Liabilities assumed

  (3,984)

Net assets acquired

  26,593 

Goodwill

  12,339 

Purchase price allocation

 $38,932 

The Company has included the financial results of Gibson Technical Services, Inc.in the consolidated financial statements from the date of acquisition and recorded $23.1 million of revenues and $9.2 million of earnings for the year ended period from April 13, 2021 through December 31, 2018.2021. The deferred tax liability recorded at acquisition was offset against the Company's valuation allowance and recorded as a tax benefit 2021 within the income tax benefit line of the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations and is included in the total earnings of GTS. 

 

Future minimum operating lease obligations from continuing operations as of December 31, 2018 were as follows:Reach Construction Group, LLC

(In thousands)

    

2019

 $1,138 

2020

  1,060 

2021

  1,024 

2022

  1,013 

2023

  605 

Thereafter

  3,307 

Total

 $8,147 

17.        SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

Management has reviewed for subsequent events and identified Effective April 1, 2020, the following:

In December 2019, a novel strain of coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), which causes COVID-19, was reportedCompany entered into an equity purchase agreement to have surfaced in China. The spread of this virus has caused business disruption beginning in the first quarter of 2020, including supply chain disruptions, delays in some customer projects, and adjustments for staffing to work from home, among other things. In March 2020, the World Health Organization declared the outbreak of COVID-19 to be a pandemic, and the U.S. economy began to experience pronounced effects including a significant decline in the stock market, employee absences and adjustment to work from home situations, among other things. At this time, there is significant uncertainty relating to the potential effectacquire 100% of the novel coronavirus on our business. Although our operations qualify as “Essential Critical Infrastructure Work” under the most recent US Departmentassets of Homeland Security guidelines, infections have become more widespread, which may worsen the supply shortage or force us to restrict our operations. In addition, due to the further spread of the outbreak where we have corporate offices, we have implemented various measures including remote working solutions, reduced hours, adjusted shifts, and placed various restrictions on access to our offices, which could negatively impact productivity, particularly if we restrict access to our offices for a longer period of time. Any of these occurrences may have a negative impact on our business, financial condition or results of operations. Therefore, while we expect this matter to negatively impact our results, the related financial impact cannot be reasonably estimated at this time.

On January 1, 2020, the Company agreed to the purchase of the VE Technology designated intellectual property for a total of 1.5 million British Pounds (approximately $2.0 million), payable 750 thousand GBP during Q1 2020 and the remaining balance due July 31, 2020.  Through this acquisition, the Company will no longer owe royalties on sales of its VE Technology products and will control all rights to the use of the VE Technology.

CUI Global announced that on March 24, 2020, it entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Reach Construction Group, LLC, an, industry-leading solar construction company. Headquartered in Sanford, North Carolina and renamed Orbital Solar Services, the business is an engineering, procurement and construction (“EPC”) company with expertise in the renewable energy industry. The transaction will consistacquisition was effectuated pursuant to the Equity Purchase Agreement (the “Agreement”), dated as of third-party debtApril 1, 2020, between Orbital Energy Group and company equity valued at approximately $37.0Brandon S. Martin (the "Seller"). Orbital Energy Group issued 2,000,000 shares of restricted common stock issued to the Seller ($1.2 million (excludingestimated fair value as of April 1, 2020) along with two seller notes for a combined total of $35 million (Adjusted to $6.5 million following preliminary working capital adjustment as of April 1, 2020) and certain other adjustments upon closing). an earn-out not in excess of $30 million ($0.7 million estimated fair value as of April 1, 2020.) The acquisition is expected to close in April 2020, subject to customary closing conditions.  On March 13, 2020, the Company entered intoseller notes were decreased by a short-term promissory note receivable for $3$28.5 million with Reach Construction Group.  The note accrues interest at 6% per annum and is payable in sixty days.  Upon closing of the acquisition of Reach Construction Group, that note will become an intercompany receivable.working capital adjustment.

 

Stock Issuances in 2020(In thousands)

Purchase Consideration

    

Fair value of common stock issued to Sellers

 $1,224 

18-Month Seller Note

  5,000 

3-year Seller Note

  1,480 

Contingent consideration

  720 

Cash payment

  3,000 

Total

 $11,424 

The acquisition was accounted for using the purchase method of accounting and the purchase price was allocated to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed based upon their estimated fair values and purchase price allocation at the date of acquisition (in thousands).

Purchase price

 $11,424 
     

Cash and cash equivalents

 $19 

Trade accounts receivable, net of allowance

  6,972 

Contract assets

  3,299 

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

  427 

Property and equipment

  382 

Right of use assets - Operating leases

  890 

Intangible, customer relationships & backlog

  8,647 

Intangible, trade name

  1,878 

Intangible, non-compete agreements

  3,212 

Deferred tax liability

  (1,570)

Liabilities assumed

  (19,738)
Net assets acquired  4,418 

Goodwill

  7,006 

Purchase price allocation

 $11,424 

Revenue from April 1, 2020 acquisition date to December 31, 2020

 $13,005 

Loss from continuing operations, net of income taxes from April 1, 2020 acquisition date to December 31, 2020

 $(4,243

 

)

 

On February 3, 2020, 37,312 shares of common stock were issued toThe deferred tax liability recorded at acquisition was offset against the Company's valuation allowance and recorded as a third party pursuant to a royalty agreement. The shares were valued at $39 thousand based on the dates earned under the royalty agreement.tax benefit in 2020.

 

The table below summarizes the unaudited condensed pro forma information of the results of operations of Orbital Energy Group, Inc. for the twelve months ended December 31,2021 and 2020 as though the Company's 2021 and 2020 acquisitions had been completed as of January 1, 2020 (in thousands):

  (Unaudited) 
  

For the Years Ended December 31,

 
  

2021

  

2020

 

Gross revenue

 $158,625  $135,189 
         

Loss from continuing operations, net of income taxes

 $(69,671) $(52,953)
         
         

 

 

QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA - UNAUDITED18.        SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

CUI Global, Inc.

 

(Exchange agreements to exchange common shares for debt payments

Subsequent to the year ended December 31, 2021 and up through the date of issuance of the financial statements, the Company issued 2,653,365 shares of common stock as consideration for repayment of debt. The Company recorded a loss subsequent to year end in the amount of $0.7 million as a result of the share price issued being lower than the closing price on the days of the exchange.

Extension of maturity date of Front Line Power Construction seller notes payable

In thousands, except shareMarch 2022, the Company reached an agreement with Kurt Johnson and Tidal Power to extend the maturity dates for $52 million of promissory notes (holders of the Front Line Power Construction seller notes) from the original maturity date of May 16, 2022 until May 31, 2023. The remaining balance of $35 million remains due in May 2022. The Company also agreed to reduce the restriction period under the Tidal Lockup letter from two years to one year and to the extent that if the value of the shares previously issued to Tidal Power were less than $4.00 per share information)upon expiration of the restriction period, the Company has agreed to pay additional consideration to Tidal Power so that the value of Tidal Power's shares are equal to no less than $28,852,844. For the Johnson lockup letter, the Company agreed to pay additional consideration to Mr. Johnson upon expiration of the restriction period so that the value of his stock consideration is no less than $17,635,228, which is equal to $4.00 per common share. Any shortfall would be made up by issuing Mr. Johnson additional common shares.

 

  

March 31

  

June 30

  

September 30

  

December 31

(1)

 

Quarter ended:

                

2019

                

Total revenue

 $5,458  $6,261  $6,073  $5,700 

Total cost of revenue

  4,271   4,540   4,652   4,217 

Gross profit

  1,187   1,721   1,421   1,483 

Gross profit percent

  22

%

  27

%

  23

%

  26

%

Selling, general and administrative

  4,835   4,463   4,793   5,972 

Depreciation and amortization

  406   384   365   389 

Research and development

  52   51   20   16 

Bad debt

  67   61   (18

)

  21 

Other operating expenses

  (2

)

     (11

)

  (7

)

Operating loss

  (4,171

)

  (3,238

)

  (3,728

)

  (4,908

)

Income (loss) from continuing operations

  (3,757

)

  (3,689

)

  (3,236

)

  (2,944

)

Income from discontinued operations

  754   1,424   2,924   7,395 

Net income (loss)

 $(3,003

)

 $(2,265

)

 $(312

)

 $4,451 

Income (loss) per common share:

                

Basic and diluted income (loss) per common share from continuing operations

 $(0.13

)

 $(0.13

)

 $(0.11

)

 $(0.10

)

Basic and diluted income per common share from discontinued operations

  0.02   0.05   0.10   0.26 

Basic and diluted income (loss) per common share from net income

 $(0.11

)

 $(0.08

)

 $(0.01

)

 $0.16 

Basic and diluted weighted average common shares outstanding

  28,583,600   28,634,766   28,691,206   28,706,671 

Non-recourse payable agreements signed

In March 2021, The Company signed a non-recourse agreement with C6 Capital Funding, LLC to receive $13.0 million less a $650 thousand origination fee. In return, the Company will pay C6 Capital $18.6 million over 44 weeks. The agreement does not have any stated interest rate. Interest will be recorded as the discount is amortized using the interest method of accounting.

 

 

Quarter ended:

                

2018

                

Total revenue

 $4,946  $2,807  $5,155  $7,434 

Total cost of revenue

  3,598   2,427   3,834   7,924 

Gross profit

  1,348   380   1,321   (490

)

Gross profit percent

  27

%

  14

%

  26

%

  (7

)%

Selling, general and administrative

  4,739   4,813   4,222   4,855 

Depreciation and amortization

  371   403   388   387 

Research and development

  31   38   47   39 

Bad debt

  1      4   8 

Impairment of goodwill and intangible assets

     1,263      3,084 

Operating loss

  (3,794

)

  (6,137

)

  (3,340

)

  (8,863

)

Loss from continuing operations

 $(3,257

)

 $(6,157

)

 $(3,041

)

 $(8,869

)

Income (loss) from discontinued operations

  (4

)

  1,392   1,507   1,104 

Net loss

 $(3,261

)

 $(4,765

)

 $(1,534

)

 $(7,765

)

Loss per common share:

                

Basic and diluted loss per common share from continuing operations

 $(0.11

)

 $(0.22

)

 $(0.11

)

 $(0.31

)

Basic and diluted income (loss) per common share from discontinued operations

     0.05   0.06   0.04 

Basic and diluted loss per common share from net loss

 $(0.11

)

 $(0.17

)

 $(0.05

)

 $(0.27

)

Basic and diluted weighted average common shares outstanding

  28,488,032   28,506,154   28,527,234   28,547,149 

(1) Total cost of revenue for the fourth quarter of 2018 includes a $1.4 million adjustment to inventory reserve and a $1.5 million impairment of Deposits and other assets in the Energy segment.

Item 9.     Changes In and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

 

Effective June 20, 2019, Perkins & Company, P.C. (Perkins) was dismissed from the client-auditor relationship by CUI Global, Inc. (“the Company”). The termination of the relationship with the independent registered accounting firm was approved by the Audit Committee and ratified by the CUI Global Board of Directors.

In connection with the audit of CUI Global Inc., during the three fiscal years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 and the subsequent period through June 20, 2019, there were no (1) disagreements between the Company and Perkins on any matter of accounting principles or practices, financial statement disclosure, or auditing scope or procedures, which disagreements if not resolved to their satisfaction would have caused them to make reference in connection with their opinion to the subject matter of the disagreement, or (2) reportable events as set forth in Item 304(a)(1)(iv) of Regulation S-K.

Effective June 20, 2019, the Audit Committee appointed Grant Thornton LLP, as its independent registered public accounting firm to audit CUI Global, Inc.None.

 

Item 9A.  Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

The Company's management, with the participation of the Company's Chief Executive Officer and its Chief Financial Officer, evaluated the effectiveness of the Company's disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) as of the end of the period covered by this annual report. In designing and evaluating our disclosure controls and procedures, our management recognizes that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objectives, and our management is required to apply their judgment in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of possible controls and procedures. Based upon that evaluation, the Company's management, including the CEO and the CFO, concluded that, as of December 31, 2019,2021, the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were not effective.

 

 

Management's Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

Management of CUI Global,Orbital Energy Group, Inc. is responsible for establishing and maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting. The 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 in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”). Our 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 U.S. GAAP and that receipts and expenditures of the Company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of the Company’s management and directors; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the Company assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

 

Internal control over financial reporting, no matter how well designed, has inherent limitations. Because of such 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 the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019,2021, based on the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”) in Internal Control-Integrated Framework (“2013 framework”). A material weakness is a deficiency, or combination of deficiencies, inBased on this evaluation, management concluded that the Company's internal control over financial reporting such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of our annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. Management identified the following material weaknesswas effective as of December 31, 2019:  insufficient resources within2021.

Orbital Energy Group management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting for Orbital Energy Group, Inc. and its subsidiaries. Based on the accounting function related to technical accounting interpretation and guidance,criteria for effective internal control over financial transaction processing and reporting. Because of this material weakness,reporting established in the 2013 framework, management concluded thathas assessed the Company’s internal control over financial reporting was notas effective as of December 31, 2019. The deficiencies largely have arisen during 2019 because of the divestiture of certain operations and the loss of personnel supporting the financial transaction processing and reporting functions. The deficiencies did not result in material adjustment to the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019.2021. 

 

To remediate our internal control weakness, management has and will continue to implement subsequent to December 31, 2019 the following measures:


• Add sufficient accounting personnel or outside consultants to properly segregate duties and to effect timely, accurate preparation of the financial statements.
• Review, assess and replace as needed third party consultants and professional advisors involved in the accounting policies, procedures and financial reporting processes.
• Provide adequate training and resources for the additional personnel or outside consultants.

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended December 31, 20192021 that materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 

Item 9B.  Other Information

 

There are no matters to be reported under this Item.

 

PART III

 

Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance

 

Our bylaws permit the number of directors to be fixed by resolution of the board of directors, but to be no less than one. The board of directors has set the maximum number of members to no more than eighttwelve members. Directors are elected by a majority of the votes cast by the stockholders and serve a one-year term or until their successors have been elected and qualified or their earlier resignation or removal. At December 31, 2019,2021, we have sevennine directors, foursix of whom are ‘‘independent’’ in accordance with applicable rules promulgated by the Securities and Exchange Commission and within the meaning of Rule 5605(a)(2) of the NASDAQNasdaq Stock Market.

 

The board of directors has five standing committees: Audit Committee, Compensation Committee, Disclosure Committee, Investment Committee and Nomination Committee, each of which has a written charter and/or statement of policy approved by our board. Our board currently appoints the members of each committee. Copies of the current committee charters and/or statement of policy for each committee are posted on our website at www.CUIGlobal.com.www.OrbitalEnergyGroup.com. During 2019,2021, two directors missed twoone board meetingsmeeting each. In each of those instances, the board members were informed of the meeting agenda and results. All directors attended, either in person or electronically, all of the meetings held by the committees on which such director served.

 

Sean P. Rooney Retired from the Board

On March 23, 2021, our director, Sean P. Rooney, formally notified the board of directors he will retire from the Orbital Energy Group board of directors when his term expired and would not seek reelection at the Company’s annual meeting in 2021.

The following are officers and directors of the Company with their ages as of December 31, 2019,2021, and a list of the members of our five standing committees: Audit Committee, Compensation Committee, Disclosure Committee, Investment Committee and Nomination Committee.

 

William J. Clough, Esq. General Counsel of CUI Global, Inc. Mr. Clough is also a Director and Executive Chairman of the Company’s board of directors and Chief Legal Officer of the Company and its wholly owned subsidiaries, age 68 (Seat 1)70.

Mr. Clough has served on the board of directors since 2006. Mr. Clough2006 and was reelected at the 20192021 Annual Meeting of ShareholdersStockholders to serve a one-year term.

DuringtermA seasoned executive and entrepreneur, Mr. Clough joined the company’s Board in 2006 and was subsequently appointed chief executive officer in 2008. In his tenure,role as CEO, a position he hasheld until 2019 with the appointment of Jim O’Neil, he led several strategic initiatives, including the Company’s acquisitionestablishment of Orbital Gas Systems Limited and the Company’s natural gas technology line; the opening of Orbital Gas Systems,company’s Energy division, formed its Energy operations in North America, Inc.;and guided the company to its largest Energy contract award in addition, Mr. Clough steeredits history while concurrently managing the Company through its 2012, 2013,company’s Power & Electro-Mechanical division to greater than average electronics industry growth rates in recent years. As CEO, he directed company’s capital markets strategy, including leading several equity offerings to institutional investors and 2017 equity raises and its listing onspearheaded the company’s uplist to the Nasdaq Capital Market in 2012.

 

Before joining the Company,Mr. Clough an attorney,previously founded and operated his owna multi-state, multi-office law firm for 14 years, with offices in Los Angeles, San Francisco and Honolulu. In that capacity, he successfully represented leading movie studios and media conglomerates.

Mr. Cloughyears. He received hisa Juris Doctorate, cum laude,Cum Laude, from the University of California’s Hastings College of the Law in 1990. He obtained oneis a former law enforcement officer and U.S. Federal Air Marshal. Mr. Clough serves on the board of directors of privately-held Virtual Power Systems, creator of Software Defined Power®, in which Orbital Energy Group holds a minority equity investment.

James F. ONeil III, Vice Chairman of the largest ever non-wrongful death jury verdictsboard of directors and Chief Executive Officer of the Company and its wholly owned subsidiaries, age 63.

Mr. O’Neil was appointed to the Board of Directors in Los Angeles County Superior CourtJuly 2019 and reelected at the 2021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to serve a one-year term. James (Jim) O'Neil joined Orbital Energy Group as vice chairman in 2000July 2019 and successfully represented partieswas subsequently appointed chief executive officer in multi-million-dollar cases throughoutOctober 2019. He is a veteran executive of the United States. power industry and has been instrumental in formulating and is overseeing execution on Orbital Energy Group’s transformation plan that reshapes the company into a diversified energy services platform.

Mr. Clough is certifiedO’Neil was previously chief operating officer, chief executive officer and president of Quanta Services, Inc. (Quanta) from 2008 to practice law2016, an infrastructure solutions provider for the electric power, oil and natural gas, telecommunications and renewable industries. During this period, he grew the company into a Fortune 500 enterprise with $7+ billion in stateannual revenue at its peak through a combination of both organic growth and federal courtsmany strategic acquisitions.

Mr. O’Neil joined Quanta in California, Illinois, Hawaii,1999 and beforeover his tenure was responsible for various initiatives including the company’s growth strategy, internal audit, and merger and acquisition initiatives. He began his career at Halliburton Company in 1980 where he held various positions, lastly as Director, Global Deepwater Development.

Mr. O’Neil holds a B.S. in Civil Engineering from Tulane University.

Nicholas M. Grindstaff, Chief Financial Officer, age 59.

Mr. Grindstaff assumed the role of Chief Financial Officer for Orbital Energy Group in November 2021. Prior to that, Mr. Grindstaff served as Vice President – Finance from May 2011 and Treasurer from October 1999 through October 2021 for Quanta Services, Inc., a leading provider of specialty contracting services, delivering comprehensive infrastructure solutions for the electric and gas utility, communications, pipeline and energy industries primarily in the United States, Supreme Court.Canada and Australia. 

As an executive officer at Quanta Services, Inc. he was responsible for capital structure, which included numerous capital raises across various markets, managing acquisitions, financial planning and analysis, internal and SOX control compliance, procurement, working capital allocation, treasury operations as well as numerous other strategic initiatives.  Mr. Grindstaff holds a Master of Science degree in Accounting.

Daniel N. Ford,  Executive Vice President of Orbital Energy Group, Inc., age 42

Mr. Ford has a background in audit with big 4 accounting firms, including KPMG. As the former CFO of Orbital Energy Group, Mr. Ford has consistently moved OEG into a position of efficiency, and forward thinking, transforming many of the Company's accounting and financial management processes while working directly with OEG’s operating groups.

Mr. Ford has implemented improved ERP systems, worked in conjunction with Mr. Clough workedon the 2012, 2013 and 2017 equity raises, listing onto the Nasdaq Stock Market, various acquisitions including Orbital Gas Systems Ltd. and Reach Construction Group, LLC as well as the 2019 divestitures of the CUI Inc. power and electromechanical business units.

Mr. Ford serves on the board of the Portland Providence Medical Foundation whose purpose is to connect people with Providence to advance research, health care and wellness.

Mr. Ford earned his B.B.A with a police officer for 16 years atdouble major in Finance and Accounting from the local, state,University of Portland and federal level including as a Federal Air Marshall flying in Southern Europe and the Middle East.holds an MBA from George Fox University.

 

C. Stephen Cochennet, Director, age 63 (Seat 2)65

Mr. Cochennet was appointedelected to the CUI Global Board of Directors at its December 1, 2017 annual meeting to fillserve as a director vacancyat the 2018 Annual Meeting and continues to serve on the board of directors. Mr. Cochennet isdirectors as an independent director within the meaning of Rule 5605(a)(2) of The NASDAQNasdaq Stock Market. Mr. Cochennet was electedreelected at the 20192021 Annual Meeting of ShareholdersStockholders to serve a one-year term.

 

our Audit Committee, Compensation Committee and Investment Committee.

 

Mr. Cochennet has served as CEO/President, of Kansas Resource Development Company, a private oil and gas exploration company since 2011. From 2011 through 2015 he was also the CEO and president of Guardian 8 Corporation. From 2005 to 2010 Mr. Cochennet was the Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer of EnerJex Resources, Inc., a publicly traded SEC registered Oil and Gas Company. Prior to joining EnerJex, Mr. Cochennet was President of CSC Group, LLC.LLC in which he supported several Fortune 500 andcorporations, international companies, and natural gas/electric utilities as well as several natural gas/electric utilities and various startup organizations. ServicesThe services provided included strategic planning, capital formation, corporate development, human resources, executive compensation, executive networking and transaction structuring. From 1985 to 2002, he held several executive positions with UtiliCorp United Inc. (Aquila) in Kansas City, Missouri. His responsibilities included finance, administration, operations, human resources, benefits, corporate development, natural gas/energy marketing, and initiatingmanaging several new startup operations. Prior to his experience at Aquila Mr. Cochennet served 6 years with the Federal Reserve System managing problem and failed banking institutions primarily within the oil and gas markets.

 

Mr. Cochennet graduated from the University of Nebraska with a B.A. in Finance and Economics.

 

Daniel N. FordPaul D. White, Chief Financial Officer of CUI Global Inc. Employee and Subsidiaries and Chief Operating Officer of the Energy Division,Director, age 4061

 

Mr. Ford hasWhite was appointed in April 2014 as a background in audit with big 4 accounting firms, including KPMG. As CFOdirector to fill a vacancy and continues to serve on the board of CUI,directors. Mr. Ford has consistently moved CUI intoWhite was reelected at the 2021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to serve a position of efficiency, and forward thinking, transforming many of CUI's accounting and financial management processes while working directly with CUI’s operating groups.one-year term.

 

Mr. Ford has implemented improved ERP systems, worked in conjunction withWhite is a graduate of Humboldt State University and brings to the Orbital Energy Group board of directors over 25 years of upper-level business management skills. Mr. Clough onWhite served for two years as the 2012, 2013 and 2017 equity raises, listing onto the Nasdaq Capital Market, various acquisitions includingPresident of Orbital Gas Systems, Ltd. andPrior to working for the 2019 divestituresCompany, Mr. White served as Vice President of the CUI Inc. powerHealthcare Division for North America of a global security company. His responsibilities included direct responsibility for profit and electromechanical business units.loss statements with approximately $120 million in revenues, along with management, control, and supervision of approximately 3,000 employees working at 44 medical centers & hospitals and over 600 medical office buildings throughout the United States. He previously served in the Office of the General Counsel and Risk Services, as an Environmental Risk Consultant with Sutter Health Support Services - Corporate Services. His key responsibilities included: formulating best practice solutions to minimize/eliminate existing and potential risk and quality concerns, patient, employee health & safety and security exposures as well as consultations of state, federal, and professional standards for Risk Control/Environmental Health, & Safety programs from agencies such as OSHA, TJC, DHS, EPA, NFPA, and DOT.

 

As a results-oriented business leader, Mr. Ford serves on the board of the Portland Providence Medical Foundation whose purpose is to connect people with Providence to advance research, health careWhite has skills in developing, managing and wellness.

expanding business portfolios. Mr. Ford earned his B.B.A with a double majorWhite has senior management experience in Financecontract management, public relations, program strategy and Accounting from the University of Portlanddesign and holds an MBA from George Fox University.has been consistently recognized for effective financial management, leadership, integrity, teambuilding, and program management skills.

 

Corey A. Lambrecht, Director, age 50 (Seat 5)52

Mr. Lambrecht was elected to serve as a director at the 2007 Annual Meeting of ShareholdersStockholders and continues to serve on the board of directors as an independent director within the meaning of Rule 5605(a)(2) of The NASDAQNasdaq Stock Market. Mr. Lambrecht was reelected at the 20192021 Annual Meeting of Shareholders to serve a one-year term.

Mr. Lambrecht, as an independent director, serves on the nominating committee along with Messrs. Cochennet, Addison, Williams, Ms. Thornton and Ms. Tucker. Mr. Lambrecht is also Chairman of our Compensation Committee and Investment Committee and a member of our Audit Committee.

 

Mr. Lambrecht is a 20+ year public company executive with broad experience in strategic acquisitions, corporate turnarounds, new business development, pioneering consumer products, corporate licensing, and interactive technology services. In addition, Mr. Lambrecht has held public company executive roles with responsibilities including day-to-day business operations, management, raising capital, board of directors' communication and investor relations. Mr. Lambrecht holds a certificate as a Certified Director from the UCLA Anderson Graduate School of Management Accredited Directors program.

 

Mr. Lambrecht, has previously served as an independent director, serves as one of six independent directors on the nominating committee along with Messrs. Cochennet, Williams, Ms. Thornton and Ms. Tucker. Mr. Lambrecht is also Chairman of our Compensation Committee.

Mr. Lambrecht is a director of ORHub, toa SaaS company as well as a strategic consultant for American Rebel Holdings, Inc. He served as Director of Sales for Leveraged Marketing Associates, the worldwide leader in licensed brand extension strategies. While Executive Vice President for Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation, he was responsible for Smith & Wesson Licensing, Advanced Technologies and Interactive Marketing divisions.  He previously served as an independent Board Member for Lifestyle Wireless/Text-a-Day in conjunction with the Company's merger with publicly traded Carbon Credits International (now operating as SinglePoint), and recently rejoined the Company as its CFO. Previously, Mr. Lambrecht served as an independent director of Guardian 8 Holdings. He was the former President of A For Effort, an interactive database marketing company specializing in online content (advergaming) for clients such as the National Hockey League. Mr. Lambrecht's prior experience also includes Pre-IPO founder for Premium Cigars International and VP Sales/Marketing for ProductExpress.com.

 

James F. O’Neil III, Chief Executive Officer, Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors, Director, as well as Chief Executive Officer of the Company’s wholly owned subsidiaries, age 61

James Francis O'Neil III, a veteran executive of the power industry, earned a B.S. in Civil Engineering from Tulane University in 1980. He is the principal owner of Forefront Solutions, LLC. since October 2017.

Mr. O’Neil joined Quanta Services, Inc. in 1999 as Vice President of Operations Integration and in 2002 advanced to Senior Vice President of Operations Integration & Audit. He continued to advance to Chief Operating Officer from October 2008 to 2011, then as the Chief Executive Officer from May 19, 2011 to March 14, 2016 and President from October 2008 to March 14, 2016. Throughout his tenure at Quanta, he was responsible for various initiatives including the company’s growth strategy, internal audit, and merger and acquisition initiatives.

Mr. O’Neil currently serves on the board of Hennessy Capital Acquisition Corp. IV (Independent Director since February 2019), FirstEnergy Corp. (Independent Director since 2017) and NRC Group Holdings Corp. (NYSE American: NRCG) (director since 2017).

From 1980 to 1999, Mr. O'Neil held various positions with Halliburton Company, lastly as Director, Global Deepwater Development.

Mr. O’Neil and his wife, Tracey, are personally active and loyal financial supporters of Waller/Austin Counties, Texas non-profit programs devoted to providing scholarship funds to students who participate in the 4H Club and fair programs throughout the year.

Sean P. Rooney, Director, age 48 (Seat 3)

Mr. Rooney was elected to serve as a director at the 2008 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and continues to serve on the board of directors as an independent director within the meaning of Rule 5605(a)(2) of The NASDAQ Stock Market. Mr. Rooney was reelected at the 2019 Annual Meeting of Shareholders to serve a one-year term.

Mr. Rooney is a veteran of the financial markets and has served on the board of CUI Global since 2008. He brings over 20 years of financial management experience to the board of directors. Mr. Rooney currently is a Financial Advisor at the Pinnacle Financial Group, which is part of LPL Financial, the largest independent broker dealer in the United States. Prior to working with LPL, Mr. Rooney served as Senior Director of Investments at Oppenheimer & Co., a full-service investment banking, securities and wealth management firm. He has also worked in similar capacity at Investec Ernst & Company, an international specialist bank headquartered in South Africa and the U.K. Mr. Rooney currently advises a clientele of high net worth investors, institutions and foundations. He is an active member of various industry and charitable organizations.

Mr. Rooney graduated from C.W. Post University in 1993 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration and holds Series 7 (General Securities Representative), Series 63 (Uniform Securities Law), Series 24 (General Securities Principal) and Series 65 (Uniform Investment Adviser) licenses.

Sarah Tucker, Director, age 7476

 

Sarah Tucker was appointed to the Board of Directors effectivein October 1, 2019, and was elected at the 2020 Annual Meeting to serve a one-year term as an Independent Director within the meaning of Rule 5605(a)(2) of The Nasdaq Stock Market. Ms. Tucker was reelected at the 2021 Annual Meeting to serve a one-year term.  Ms. Tucker, as an independent director, serves on the nominating committee along with Messrs. Cochennet, Lambrecht, Williams, Addison and Ms. Thornton.

 

Sarah Tucker is a veteran executive for the business strategy/development, risk management, planning, engineering, procurement and construction of oil and gas projects globally. She has led projects with budgets from $5M$5 million to over $3B$3 billion in refining, petrochemicals, power, and offshore (both shallow and deep-water) for oil and liquified natural gas in Angola, Brazil, China, India, Italy, Korea, Mexico, Nigeria, Oman, Qatar, Spain, the United Kingdom and the United States.

 

She has served as an operationoperations executive and managing director for major engineering, construction and petrochemical technology companies including Kellogg, KBR, Kellogg-Mitsubishi Development Company, Raytheon Engineers and Constructors, Kvaerner Engineering and Construction of Norway.Norway and Silvertech of United Kingdom, a Process Control and High Integrity Safety System Solutions.

 

Sarah headed the Pollution Prevention Task Force Committee with eight Oil Companies' representatives participating and contributing to the Study for "Refinery Crude Unit Pollution Prevention Project" which is now an American Petroleum Institute DC Publication number 31101. 

 

Over the past several years, she has worked closely with Mexican national oil company PEMEX to establish the country’s first deep water project valued at $14B.$14 billion.

 

According to her personal and professional philosophy, Sarah believes in developing strong relationships and respecting diverse cultures. As part of her philosophy, she led in 1992 a program to author a 51-page report which became the American Petroleum Institute publication, Environmental Design Considerations for Petroleum Refining Crude Processing Units.

 

Her parallel and subsequent effort with the World Bank was successful in striking a balance between the interests of indigenous people and major oil companies allowing projects to proceed in Africa. The publication became an influential guide for doing business in the developing world.

 

Sarah has studied at the University of Kansas, Rice University and Lamar University.  She is a licensed professional engineer and holds a bachelor’s degree in Civil/Structural Engineering from Lamar.

She served on the Rice University Engineering and Construction Global Forum from 2008 - 2016, serving as chair from 2008 - 2010.

As a leading woman in her industry, she has been the first woman to hold several positions including that of vice president of operations.  Sarah is a recipient of the 2015 National Women’s Council Award. She is an Executive Member of Women’s Energy Network and a Member of Executive Business Women’s Council in Mexico City.

Paul D. WhiteT. Addison,Senior Vice President of CUI Global, Inc. and Director, age 58 (Seat 4)74

Mr. WhitePaul T. Addison was appointed to the Board of Directors in April 2014June 2021, as a director to fill a vacancy and continues to serve onan Independent Director within the boardmeaning of directors.Rule 5605(a)(2) of The Nasdaq Stock Market. Mr. WhiteAddison was reelected at the 20192021 Annual Meeting of Shareholders to serve a one-year term.  Mr. Addison, as an independent director, serves on the nominating committee along with Messrs. Cochennet, Lambrecht, Williams, Ms. Thornton  and Ms. Tucker.

Paul T. Addison earned a B. A. in political science and economics from Howard University in 1969 and a M.B.A. from Harvard University in 1972.

He began his career as a loan specialist for The Economic Development Administration of the US Department of Commerce in 1972 providing loan assistance for companies that agreed to expand operations in areas of high unemployment before moving to New York in 1974 to join a Chase Manhattan subsidiary as Vice President and Treasurer that provided financing and startup capital for minority small business enterprises (a MESBIC). In 1978, he joined Citibank/Citicorp as a banker in the firm’s energy and utilities department rising to the level of a senior credit officer and Managing Director.

In this capacity, he managed the bank’s significant exposure to a large segment of the gas and electric utility industry. He also provided financial advice to the firm’s clients and on numerous occasions provided testimony before state and federal regulatory commissions. He also developed financing structures which allowed a number of utilities to rate base large nuclear projects without which a number of utilities would have suffered significant losses. This was a particular issue during the last significant construction cycle for the industry.

He also approved and structured a number of large energy project financings for the firm.

 

Mr. WhiteAddison continued his work in the utility industry when he joined Solomon Smith Barney (Citigroup) in 1997 as a Managing Director in the electric and gas utility space until his retirement from the firm in 2002.

Upon retirement from Citigroup, Mr. Addison became an independent director of First Energy Corporation of Akron, Ohio, serving until his mandatory retirement in 2019. In his capacity as independent director, he served as Chair of the Finance Committee, and member of the Audit Committee as a designated financial expert. He was heavily involved in numerous financings over his term on the board and significantly participated in the company’s $4.7 billion acquisition of Allegheny Energy in 2010.

Mr. Addison is also a Trustee of the Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn New York, where he resides. Maimonides is the largest nonprofit hospital in Brooklyn with revenues approaching $1.5 billion and serves an extremely diverse population where over 60 languages are spoken. In his capacity as Trustee, Mr. Addison serves as Chair of the Budget and Finance Committee, member of the Legal and Audit Committee, member of the Quality and Safety Committee, and member of the Executive Committee. Mr. Addison also has served as the hospital’s representative on their self-insurance malpractice company, Hospital Insurance Company (HIC). Mr. Addison also served as Chair of the Audit Committee of HIC’s parent, the Federation of Jewish Philanthropies (FOJP), until its dissolution in 2019.

Jerry Sue ThorntonDirector, age 74

Dr. Thornton was appointed to the Board of Directors in July 2021, as an Independent Director within the meaning of Rule 5605(a)(2) of The Nasdaq Stock Market.

Dr. Jerry Sue Thornton earned her B.A. and M. A. in Communications from Murray State University (Kentucky) and Ph.D. in Higher Education Leadership/Administration from The University of Texas (Austin). She earned a post-doctorate certificate from Harvard University.

Dr. Thornton is President of DreamCatcher Education Consulting providing professional development, coaching and mentoring for newly appointed presidents of colleges. She is President Emeritus of the Cuyahoga Community College District serving from 1992 to 2013 which is headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio. The College serves over 30,000 students on four campuses with a budget over $300 million. She brings over 45 years of experience in leading and managing higher education institutions in Chicago, Minnesota and Ohio with a focus on workforce training and professional education.

She also has extensive corporate board service beginning in 1992 with National City Bank/Corporation, Office Max, American Greetings and Bridgestreet Worldwide, Inc. until those companies had a change of control. She later served on the Boards of American Family Insurance, Applied Industrial Technologies, Inc., Republic Powdered Metals, (RPM, Inc.) and First Energy. She is currently serving on the Boards of Barnes and Noble Education (BNED) and Parkwood LLC (an Ohio financial planning company).

Gaining extensive business experience through her board director services of public and private companies, she has been a member of compensation, nominating and governance and audit committees. From manufacturing through distribution; industrial through commercial; financial through merchandizing and energy, Dr. Thornton has amassed over 29 years of business experience. During that tenure, she has served on Special Committees of the Board of Directors involved in acquisition.

Dr. Thornton brings to the Board of Directors broad leadership and business skills as well as an extensive background in workforce/talent acquisition, development and evaluation/assessment.

La Forrest V. Williams,Director, age 70

Mr. Williams was appointed to the Board of Directors in July 2021, as an Independent Director within the meaning of Rule 5605(a)(2) of The Nasdaq Stock Market and was reelected at the 2021 Annual Meeting to serve a one-year term.  Mr. Williams, as an independent director, serves on the nominating committee along with Messrs. Cochennet, Lambrecht, Addison, Ms. Thornton and Ms. Tucker.

Mr. Williams is a graduateveteran executive of Humboldtthe communications, computer and information assurance business of the Department of Defense and Intelligence community. He served in the civilian Defense Intelligence Senior Executive Service and the United States Air Force senior officer corps as a communication/computer intelligence and information assurance strategist for more than 40 years. His activity in information assurance became a nexus with the vulnerabilities of the energy grid.

His accomplishments include serving as a leader in the original merging of communications and computer systems technology into one management structure for the United States Air Force. His energy focus evolved through his engagement in studying cybersecurity threats to our energy grid during his career at the National Security Agency. Mr. Williams has a history of leadership positions which includes, Chief Information Officer (CIO) of the National Security Agency (NSA), Director of Information Assurance for the U.S. European Command and Director of Legislative Affairs for the National Security Agency. Mr. Williams' experience includes leading a military Communications Group of more than 500 technicians and staff, supporting Nellis Air Force Base Nevada networks. He has installed, managed, upgraded and secured communication cable and space networks worldwide; to include the United States, Europe and South Pacific.

Mr. Williams holds a B.S. degree in Business Administration from San Jose State University and bringsan M.S. Degree in Technology of Management Information Systems from the American University, Washington D.C. He has served at the forefront in the Information Age and was an early leader at NSA in advocating concern about the vulnerability of our nation's energy grid. His advocacy led to the CUI Global board over 25formation of customer assistance teams that he established to advise on the survivability of energy systems of national security concern. He later joined the National War College faculty in 2010 to teach National Security Strategy as a visiting Professor until 2013.  

He is a proven results-oriented leader with broad experience as an Air Force Colonel and three years of upper-level business management skills. Prior to being appointed Senior Vice PresidentBoard of CUI GlobalDirector experience with The Government Employees Benefit Association for federal employees. In his spare time, he is a volunteer Docent at the Smithsonian Institute in 2019, Mr. White served as PresidentWashington D.C. and gives tours through the National Museum of Orbital Gas Systems, Ltd. for approximately two years. Prior to Orbital, Mr. White served as Vice President of the Healthcare Division for Securitas Security Services, a global security company. His responsibilities included direct responsibility for profit and loss statements with approximately $130 million in revenues, along with management, control, and supervision of approximately 3,000 employees working at 44 Medical Centers & Hospitals and over 600 Medical Office and client corporate buildings throughout the United States. He previously served in the Office of the General Counsel and Risk Services, as an Environmental Risk Consultant with Sutter Health Support Services - Corporate Services. His key responsibilities included: formulating best practice solutions to minimize/eliminate existing and potential employee health & safety and security exposures as well as consultations of state, federal, and professional standards for Risk Control/Environmental Health, Security & Safety programs such as OSHA, TJC, DHS, EPA, NFPA, and DOT.

As a results-oriented business leader, Mr. White has skills in developing, managing and expanding business portfolios. Mr. White has senior management experience in contract management, public relations, program strategy and design and has been consistently recognized for effective financial management, leadership, integrity, team-building, and program management skills.American History.

 

Corporate Governance and Board of Directors Matters

 

We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of business conduct and corporate governance, which we believe are essential to running our business efficiently, serving our stockholders well and maintaining our integrity in the marketplace. We have adopted a Corporate Code of Ethics and Business Conduct, a code of business conduct and ethics for employees, directors and officers (including our principal executive officer and principal financial and accounting officer). We have also adopted the following governance guides: Charters for each of the Audit Committee, Compensation Committee, Disclosure Committee, Investment Committee, Nominating Committee, a policy for Director Independence, and Whistleblower Policy, all of which, in conjunction with our certificate of incorporation and bylaws, form the framework for our corporate governance. These corporate governance documents are available on the Internet at our website www.CUIGlobal.com.www.OrbitalEnergyGroup.com.

 

 

Our Corporate Governance Practices

We have always believed in strong and effective corporate governance procedures and practices. In that spirit, we have summarized several of our corporate governance practices below.

 

The Board of Director’s Role in Risk Oversight

The board of directors and its committees have an important role in the Company’s risk oversight, management and assessment process. The board regularly reviews with management the Company’s financial and business strategies, which include a discussion of relevant material risks as appropriate. The board discusses with the Company’s outside general counsel, as appropriate, its risk oversight and assessment as well as any material risks to the Company. In addition, the board delegates risk management responsibilities to the Audit Committee and Compensation Committee, which committees are each comprised of independent directors. The Audit Committee, as part of its charter, oversees the Company’s risk oversight, management and assessment of the Company and oversees and assesses the risks associated with the corporate governance and ethics of the Company. Risk considerations are a material aspect of the Compensation Committee. The Compensation Committee is responsible for overseeing the management of risks relating to executive compensation. In addition, the Compensation Committee also, as appropriate, assesses the risks relating to the Company’s overall compensation programs. The Investment Committee is responsible for overseeing and advising on possible investment opportunities as well as to administer and operate the Company’s investment portfolio. This includes aligning investment policies and strategies with the Company’s short and long-term goals, as well as setting benchmarks to evaluate long-term objectives and continual evaluation of the investment strategies. While the Committees oversee the management of the risk areas identified above, the entire board is regularly informed through committee reports about such risks. This enables the board and its committees to coordinate the risk management, assessment and oversight roles.

 

Adopting Governance Guidelines

Our board of directors has adopted a set of corporate governance guidelines to establish a framework within which it will conduct its business and to guide management in its running of the Company. The governance guidelines can be found on our website at www.CUIGlobal.comwww.OrbitalEnergyGroup.com and are summarized below.

 

Monitoring Board Effectiveness

It is important that our board of directors and its committees are performing effectively and in the best interest of the Company and its stockholders. The board of directors and each committee are responsible for annually assessing their effectiveness in fulfilling their obligations.

 

Conducting Formal Independent Director Sessions

On a regular basis, at the conclusion of regularly scheduled board meetings, the independent directors are encouraged to meet privately, without our management or any non-independent directors.

 

Hiring Outside Advisors

The board and each of its committees may retain outside advisors and consultants of their choosing at our expense, without management's consent.

 

Avoiding Conflicts of Interest

We expect our directors, executives and employees to conduct themselves with the highest degree of integrity, ethics and honesty. Our credibility and reputation depend upon the good judgment, ethical standards and personal integrity of each director, executive and employee. In order to provide assurances to the Company and its stockholders, we have implemented standards of business conduct, which provide clear conflict of interest guidelines to its employees and directors, as well as an explanation of reporting and investigatory procedures.

 

 

Providing Transparency

We believe that it is important that stockholders understand our governance practices. In order to help ensure transparency of our practices, we have posted information regarding our corporate governance procedures on our website at www.CUIGlobal.com.www.OrbitalEnergyGroup.com.

 

Whistleblower Policy

In furtherance of our governance transparency and ethical standards, we adopted a comprehensive Whistleblower Policy that encourages employees to report to proper authorities incorrect financial reporting, unlawful activity, activities that are not in line with the CUI GlobalOrbital Energy Group Code of Business Conduct or activities, which otherwise amount to serious improper conduct. Our Whistleblower Policy is posted on our website at www.CUIGlobal.com.www.OrbitalEnergyGroup.com.

 

Accuracy of All Public Disclosure

It is the Company's policy that all public disclosure made by the Company should be accurate and complete, fairly present, in all material respects, the Company's financial condition and results of operations, and be made on a timely basis as required by applicable laws and securities exchange requirements. In order to oversee this policy, a Disclosure Committee Charter has been adopted by the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer and ratified by our Audit Committee. You can view a copy of this document on our website at www.CUIGlobal.comwww.OrbitalEnergyGroup.com or obtain a copy by making a written request to the Company at CUI Global,Orbital Energy Group, Inc., 20050 SW 112th Avenue, Tualatin, Oregon 97062.1924 Aldine Western, Houston, Texas 77038.

 

Communications with the Board of Directors

Stockholders may communicate with the board of directors by writing to the Company at CUI Global,Orbital Energy Group, Inc., 20050 SW 112th Avenue, Tualatin, Oregon 97062, or via telephone at (832) 467-1420.1924 Aldine Western, Houston, Texas 77038. Stockholders who would like their submission directed to a member of the board may so specify and the communication will be forwarded as appropriate.

 

Standards of Business Conduct

The board of directors has adopted a Code of Ethics and Business Conduct for all our employees and directors, including the Company's principal executive and senior financial officers. You can obtain a copy of these documents on our website at www.CUIGlobal.comwww.OrbitalEnergyGroup.com or by making a written request to the Company at CUI Global,Orbital Energy Group, Inc., 20050 SW 112th Avenue, Tualatin, Oregon 97062, or via telephone at (832) 467-1420.1924 Aldine Western, Houston, Texas 77038. We will disclose any amendments to the Code of Ethics and Business Conduct or waiver of a provision therefrom on our website at www.CUIGlobal.com.www.OrbitalEnergyGroup.com.

 

Ensuring Auditor Independence

We have taken several steps to ensure the continued independence of our independent registered public accounting firm. That firm reports directly to the Audit Committee, which also has the ability to pre-approve or reject any non-audit services proposed to be conducted by our independent registered public accounting firm.

 

Committees of the Board and Meetings

 

At December 31, 2019,2021, our board of directors consists of sevennine directors. FourSix of our sevennine directors are ‘‘independent’’ as defined in Rule 5605(a)(2) of The NASDAQNasdaq Stock Market. Our board of directors has the following standing committees: Audit Committee, Compensation Committee, Disclosure Committee, Investment Committee and Nominating Committee. Each of the committees operates under a written charter adopted by the board of directors. All committee charters are available on our website at www.CUIGlobal.com.www.OrbitalEnergyGroup.com.

 

 

Audit Committee

The Audit Committee is established pursuant to the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 for the purposes of overseeing the company’s accounts and financial reporting processes and audits of its financial statements. The Audit Committee reviews the financial information that will be provided to the stockholders and others, the systems of internal controls established by management and the board and the independence and performance of the Company’s audit process. The Audit Committee is directly responsible for, among other things, the appointment, compensation, retention and oversight of our independent registered public accounting firm, review of financial reporting, internal company processes of business/financial risk and applicable legal, ethical and regulatory requirements. During 2019,2021, the Audit Committee held sixseven formal meetings.

 

 

At December 31, 2019,2021, the Audit Committee is comprised of Sean P. Rooney, Chairman, C. Stephen Cochennet, and Corey A. Lambrecht. Messrs. Rooney, Cochennet, and Lambrecht are independent in accordance with Rule 10A-3 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and Rule 5605(a)(2) of The NASDAQNasdaq Stock Market.

 

Audit Committee Report

THE FOLLOWING REPORT OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE DOES NOT CONSTITUTE SOLICITING MATERIAL AND SHOULD NOT BE DEEMED FILED OR INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE INTO ANY OTHER COMPANY FILING UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 OR THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934, EXCEPT TO THE EXTENT THE COMPANY SPECIFICALLY INCORPORATES THIS REPORT BY REFERENCE THEREIN.

 

Audit Committee Report

The Audit Committee reviews the financial information that will be provided to the stockholders and others, the systems of internal controls established by management and the board and the independence and performance of the Company’s audit process.

 

The Audit Committee has:

reviewed and discussed with management the audited consolidated financial statements included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and the most recent Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q;

discussed with Grant Thornton LLP., the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm, the matters required to be discussed by General Auditing Standard 1301: Communications with Audit Committees as adopted by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board; and

received the written disclosures and letter from Grant Thornton LLP as required by applicable requirements of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board regarding the independent accountant’s communications with the Audit Committee concerning independence and has discussed with Grant Thornton LLP its independence from CUI Global.

reviewed and discussed with management the audited consolidated financial statements included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and the most recent Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q;

discussed with Grant Thornton LLP., the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm, the matters required to be discussed by General Auditing Standard 1301: Communications with Audit Committees as adopted by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board; and

received the written disclosures and letter from Grant Thornton LLP as required by applicable requirements of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board regarding the independent accountant’s communications with the Audit Committee concerning independence and has discussed with Grant Thornton LLP its independence from Orbital Energy Group.

 

Based on these reviews and discussions, the Audit Committee has recommended that the audited consolidated financial statements be included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019.2021. The Audit Committee has also considered whether the amount and nature of non-audit services provided by Grant Thornton LLP is compatible with the auditor’s independence and determined that it is compatible.

 

Submitted by: Audit Committee by

Sean P. Rooney, Chairman

C. Stephen Cochennet

Corey A. Lambrecht

 

NominatingNominating Committee

The nominating committee consists of all of the members of the board of directors who are ‘‘independent directors’’ within the meaning of Rule 5605(a)(2) of The NASDAQNasdaq Stock Market. The nominating committee is responsible for the evaluation of nominees for election as director, the nomination of director candidates for election by the stockholders and evaluation of sitting directors. The board has developed a formal policy for the identification and evaluation of nominees, Charter of the Nominating Committee of the Board of Directors, which can be reviewed on our website at www.CUIGlobal.com.www.OrbitalEnergyGroup.com. In general, when the board determines that expansion of the board or replacement of a director is necessary or appropriate, the nominating committee will review, through candidate interviews with members of the board and management, consultation with the candidate's associates and through other means, a candidate's honesty, integrity, reputation in and commitment to the community, judgment, personality and thinking style, willingness to invest in the Company, residence, willingness to devote the necessary time, potential conflicts of interest, independence, understanding of financial statements and issues, and the willingness and ability to engage in meaningful and constructive discussion regarding Company issues. The committee reviews any special expertise, for example, that qualifies a person as an audit committee financial expert, membership or influence in a geographic or business target market, or other relevant business experience. To date the Company has not paid any fee to any third party to identify or evaluate, or to assist it in identifying or evaluating, potential director candidates.

 

 

The nominating committee considers director candidates nominated by stockholders during such times as the Company is actively considering obtaining new directors. Candidates recommended by stockholders will be evaluated based on the same criteria described above. Stockholders desiring to suggest a candidate for consideration should send a letter to the Company's secretary and include: (a) a statement that the writer is a shareholderstockholder (providing evidence if the person's shares are held in street name) and is proposing a candidate for consideration; (b) the name and contact information for the candidate; (c) a statement of the candidate's business and educational experience; (d) information regarding the candidate's qualifications to be director, including but not limited to an evaluation of the factors discussed above which the board would consider in evaluating a candidate; (e) information regarding any relationship or understanding between the proposing shareholderstockholder and the candidate; (f) information regarding potential conflicts of interest and (g) a statement that the candidate is willing to be considered and willing to serve as director if nominated and elected. Because of the small size of the Company and the limited need to seek additional directors, there is no assurance that all shareholderstockholder proposed candidates will be fully considered, that all candidates will be considered equally or that the proponent of any candidate or the proposed candidate will be contacted by the Company or the board and no undertaking to do so is implied by the willingness to consider candidates proposed by stockholders.

 

Disclosure Committee

We have formed a Disclosure Committee, which has been adopted by our CEO and CFO (‘‘Principal Officers’’) and ratified by our Audit Committee. The Disclosure Committee assists our Principal Officers in fulfilling their responsibility for oversight of the accuracy, completeness and timeliness of our public disclosures including, but not limited to our SEC filings, press releases, correspondence disseminated to security holders, presentations to analysts and release of financial information or earnings guidance to security holders or the investment community. The Disclosure Committee consists of our Principal Officers, the individual or representative of the firm primarily charged with investor/public relations, the Audit Committee Chairman and outside SEC counsel. Our Executive Chairman is Chairman of the committee. Our Senior Officers may replace or add new members from time to time. Our Senior Officers have the option to assume all the responsibilities of this committee or designate a committee member, who shall be a person with expertise in SEC and SRO rules and regulations with respect to disclosure, who shall have the power, acting together with our Senior Officers, to review and approve disclosure statements when time or other circumstances do not permit the full committee to meet. You may review the full text of our Disclosure Committee Charter on our website, www.CUIGlobal.com,www.OrbitalEnergyGroup.com, under the link, governance.

 

Generally, the committee serves as a central point to which material information should be directed and a resource for people who have questions regarding materiality and the requirement to disclose. In discharging its duties, the committee has full access to all Company books, records, facilities and personnel, including the board of directors, Audit Committee, independent public accountants and outside counsel.

 

Investment Committee

The purpose of the investment committee is to administer and to operate the portfolio. The members of the investment committee are fiduciaries of the portfolio, with responsibility for overseeing investment policies, general policies, guidelines, investment performance and related risk management. Committee members will fulfill their duties solely on behalf of the company’s mission. In addition to aligning investment policies and strategies with the company’s short- and long-term goals, investment committees must set benchmarks to evaluate long-term objectives and continually evaluate their strategies to keep pace with market fluctuations and changes.

 

The Investment Committee shall also provide initial oversight and analysis of potential acquisition targets being considered by Management. In that capacity, Investment Committee members may, among other things, participate in reviewing initial due diligence; visit prospective acquisition targets; participate in strategy and other discussions with Management; and, where appropriate, more.

 

At December 31, 2019,2021, the Investment Committee is comprised of C. Stephen Cochennet, Corey A. Lambrecht, Chairman, and Daniel Ford,Nicholas M. Grindstaff, CFO.

 

 

Compensation Committee

The Compensation Committee discharges the board’s responsibilities relating to general compensation policies and practices and to compensation of our executives. In discharging its responsibilities, the Compensation Committee establishes principles and procedures in order to ensure to the board and the shareholdersstockholders that the compensation practices of the Company are appropriately designed and implemented to attract, retain and reward high quality executives and are in accordance with all applicable legal and regulatory requirements. In this context, the Compensation Committee’s authority, duties and responsibilities are:

 

To annually review the Company’s philosophy regarding executive compensation.

To periodically review market and industry data to assess the Company’s competitive position, and to retain any compensation consultant to be used to assist in the evaluation of directors’ and executive officers’ compensation.

To establish and approve the Company goals and objectives, and associated measurement metrics relevant to compensation of the Company’s executive officers.

To establish and approve incentive levels and targets relevant to compensation of the executive officers.

To annually review and make recommendations to the board to approve, for all principal executives and officers, the base and incentive compensation, taking into consideration the judgment and recommendation of the Chief Executive Officer for the compensation of the principal executives and officers.

To separately review, determine and approve the Chief Executive Officer’s applicable compensation levels based on the Committee’s evaluation of the Chief Executive Officer’s performance considering the Company’s and the individual goals and objectives.

To review for any related party employee situations, to ensure appropriate controls are implemented surrounding compensation changes, bonuses and performance reviews of the related party employee, and to participate in such controls as appropriate.

To periodically review and make recommendations to the board with respect to the compensation of directors, including board and committee retainers, meeting fees, equity-based compensation and such other forms of compensation as the Compensation Committee may consider appropriate.

To administer and annually review the Company’s incentive compensation plans and equity-based plans.

To review and make recommendations to the board regarding any executive employment agreements, any proposed severance arrangements or change in control and similar agreements/provisions, and any amendments, supplements or waivers to the foregoing agreements, and any perquisites, special or supplemental benefits.

To review and discuss with management, the Compensation Discussion and Analysis (CD&A), and determine the Committee’s recommendation for the CD&A’s inclusion in the Company’s annual report filed with the SEC on Form 10-K and proxy statement on Schedule 14A.

The Committee may, in its sole discretion, retain or obtain the advice of a compensation consultant, legal counsel or other adviser.

The Committee shall be directly responsible for the appointment, compensation and oversight of the work of any compensation consultant, legal counsel and other adviser retained by the Committee. The Company must provide for appropriate funding, as determined by the Committee, for payment of reasonable compensation to a compensation consultant, legal counsel or any other adviser retained by the Committee.

The Committee may select, or receive advice from, a compensation consultant, legal counsel or other adviser to the Committee, other than in-house legal counsel, only after taking into consideration the following factors:

To annually review the Company’s philosophy regarding executive compensation.

To periodically review market and industry data to assess the Company’s competitive position, and to retain any compensation consultant to be used to assist in the evaluation of directors’ and executive officers’ compensation.

To establish and approve the Company goals and objectives, and associated measurement metrics relevant to compensation of the Company’s executive officers.

To establish and approve incentive levels and targets relevant to compensation of the executive officers.

To annually review and make recommendations to the board to approve, for all principal executives and officers, the base and incentive compensation, taking into consideration the judgment and recommendation of the Chief Executive Officer for the compensation of the principal executives and officers.

To separately review, determine and approve the Chief Executive Officer’s applicable compensation levels based on the Committee’s evaluation of the Chief Executive Officer’s performance considering the Company’s and the individual goals and objectives.

To review for any related party employee situations, to ensure appropriate controls are implemented surrounding compensation changes, bonuses and performance reviews of the related party employee, and to participate in such controls as appropriate.

To periodically review and make recommendations to the board with respect to the compensation of directors, including board and committee retainers, meeting fees, equity-based compensation and such other forms of compensation as the Compensation Committee may consider appropriate.

To administer and annually review the Company’s incentive compensation plans and equity-based plans.

To review and make recommendations to the board regarding any executive employment agreements, any proposed severance arrangements or change in control and similar agreements/provisions, and any amendments, supplements or waivers to the foregoing agreements, and any perquisites, special or supplemental benefits.

The Committee may, in its sole discretion, retain or obtain the advice of a compensation consultant, legal counsel or other adviser.

The Committee shall be directly responsible for the appointment, compensation and oversight of the work of any compensation consultant, legal counsel and other adviser retained by the Committee. The Company must provide for appropriate funding, as determined by the Committee, for payment of reasonable compensation to a compensation consultant, legal counsel or any other adviser retained by the Committee.

The Committee may select, or receive advice from, a compensation consultant, legal counsel or other adviser to the Committee, other than in-house legal counsel, only after taking into consideration the following factors:

 

 

(i)

the provision of other services to the Company by the person that employs the compensation consultant, legal counsel or other adviser;

(ii)

the amount of fees received from the Company by the person that employs the compensation consultant, legal counsel or other adviser, as a percentage of the total revenue of the person that employs the compensation consultant, legal counsel or other adviser;

 

(ii)(iii)

the amountpolicies and procedures of fees received from the Company by the person that employs the compensation consultant, legal counsel or other adviser as a percentagethat are designed to prevent conflicts of the total revenue of the person that employs the compensation consultant, legal counsel or other adviser;interest;

 

(iii)(iv)

the policies and proceduresany business or personal relationship of the person that employs the compensation consultant, legal counsel or other adviser that are designed to prevent conflictswith a member of interest;the Committee;

 

(iv)(v)

any stock of the Company owned by the compensation consultant, legal counsel or other adviser; and

(vi)

any business or personal relationship of the compensation consultant, legal counsel, or other adviser or the person employing the adviser with a memberan executive officer of the Committee;Company.

 

(v)

any stockThe Committee is not required to implement or act consistently with the advice or recommendations of the Company owned by the compensation consultant, legal counsel or other adviser; andadviser to the Committee.

 

(vi)

any business or personal relationship of the compensation consultant, legal counsel, other adviser or the person employing the adviser with an executive officer of the Company.

The Committee is not required to implement or act consistently with the advice or recommendations of the compensation consultant, legal counsel or other adviser to the Committee.

Compensation Committee Members

The Compensation Committee of the board of directors is appointed by the board of directors to discharge the board’s responsibilities with respect to all forms of compensation of the Company’s executive officers, to administer the Company’s equity incentive plans and to produce an annual report on executive compensation for use in the Company’s Form 10-K and the proxy statement on Schedule 14A. At December 31, 2019,2021, the Compensation Committee consists of two independent members of the board of directors, Messrs. Corey A. Lambrecht, and C. Stephen Cochennet, both of whom are ‘‘independent directors’’ within the meaning of Rule 5605(a) (2) of the NASDAQNasdaq Stock Market.

 

Committee Meetings

Our Compensation Committee meets formally and informally as often as necessary to perform its duties and responsibilities. The Compensation Committee held three formal meetings during fiscal 2019.2021. On an as requested basis, our Compensation Committee receives and reviews materials prepared by management, consultants or committee members, in advance of each meeting. Depending on the agenda for the particular meeting, these materials may include, among other factors:

 

minutes and materials from the previous meeting(s);

reports on year-to-date Company financial performance versus budget;

reports on progress and levels of performance of individual and Company performance objectives;

reports on the Company’s financial and stock performance versus a peer group of companies;

reports from the Committee’s compensation consultant regarding market and industry data relevant to executive officer compensation;

reports and executive compensation summary worksheets, which sets forth for each executive officer: current total compensation and incentive compensation target percentages, current equity ownership holdings and general partner ownership interest and current and projected value of each and all such compensation elements, including distributions and dividends therefrom, over a five-year period.

minutes and materials from the previous meeting(s);

reports on year-to-date Company financial performance versus budget;

reports on progress and levels of performance of individual and Company performance objectives;

reports on the Company’s financial and stock performance versus a peer group of companies;

reports from the Committee’s compensation consultant regarding market and industry data relevant to executive officer compensation;

reports and executive compensation summary worksheets, which sets forth for each executive officer: current total compensation and incentive compensation target percentages, current equity ownership holdings and general partner ownership interest and current and projected value of each and all such compensation elements, including distributions and dividends therefrom, over a five-year period.

 

Compensation Committee Charter

Our Compensation Committee Charter is posted on our website at www.CUIGlobal.com.www.OrbitalEnergyGroup.com.

 

Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation

None of the members of the Company’s Compensation Committee is or has at any time during the last completed fiscal year been an officer or employee of the Company. None of the Company’s executive officers has served as a member of the board of directors, or as a member of the compensation or similar committee, of any entity that has one or more executive officers who served on the Company’s board of directors or Compensation Committee during the last completed fiscal year.

 

Compensation Committee Report

We have reviewed and discussed the Compensation Discussion and Analysis with management and based on our review and discussion with management, we have recommended to the board of directors that the Compensation Discussion and Analysis be included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019 and the proxy statement on Schedule 14A for the 2020 Annual Meeting of Shareholders.

Submitted by:

Compensation Committee by

Corey A. Lambrecht, Chairman

C. Stephen Cochennet

 

 

Item 11.      Executive Compensation

 

Compensation Discussion and Analysis

 

General Philosophy

Our compensation philosophy is based on the premise of attracting, retaining and motivating exceptional leaders, setting high goals, working toward the common objectives of meeting the expectations of customers and stockholders and rewarding outstanding performance. Following this philosophy, in determining executive compensation, we consider all relevant factors, such as the competition for talent, our desire to link pay with performance, the use of equity to align executive interests with those of our stockholders, individual contributions, teamwork and performance, each executive’s total compensation package and internal pay equity. We strive to accomplish these objectives by compensating all employees with total compensation packages consisting of a combination of competitive base salary and incentive compensation.

Pay for Performance

At the core of our compensation philosophy is our strong belief that pay should be directly linked to performance. We believe in a pay for performance culture that places a significant portion of executive officer total compensation as contingent upon, or variable with, individual performance, Company performance and achievement of strategic goals including increasing shareholder value.

The performance based compensation for our executives may be in the form of (i) annual cash incentives to promote achievement of, and accountability for, shorter term performance plans and strategic goals and (ii) equity grants, designed to align the long-term interests of our executive officers with those of our shareholders, by creating a strong and direct link between executive compensation and shareholder return over a multiple year performance cycle. Long-term incentive equity awards are typically granted in restricted stock or stock options. These awards generally vest over a two to four-year period. This opportunity for share ownership was to provide incentive and retain key employees and align their interests with our long-term strategic goals. As of December 31, 2019, the Company does not have an approved equity incentive plan, and expects to submit a proposal for a new equity incentive plan to shareholders for approval during 2020.

Base Compensation to be Competitive within Industry

A key component of an executive’s total compensation base salary is designed to compensate executives commensurate with their respective level of experience, scope of responsibilities, sustained individual performance and future potential. The goal has been to provide for base salaries that are sufficiently competitive with other similar-sized companies, both regionally and nationally, to attract and retain talented leaders.

Compensation Setting Process

Management’s Role in the Compensation Setting Process

Management plays a significant role in the compensation-setting process. The most significant aspects of management’s role are:

assisting in establishing business performance goals and objectives;

evaluating employee and Company performance;

CEO and/or Executive Chairman recommending compensation levels and awards for executive officers;

implementing the board approved compensation plans; and

assistance in preparing agenda and materials for the Committee meetings.

The Chief Executive Officer and/or Executive Chairman generally attends the Committee meetings; however, the Committee also regularly meets in executive session. The Chief Executive Officer and/or Executive Chairman makes recommendations with respect to financial and corporate goals and objectives and makes non-CEO executive compensation recommendations to the Compensation Committee based on Company performance, individual performance and the peer group compensation market analysis. The Compensation Committee considers and deliberates on this information and in turn makes recommendations to the board of directors, for the board’s determination and approval of the executives’ and other members of senior management’s compensation, as necessary, including base compensation, short-term cash incentives and long-term equity incentives. For related party employee matters, appropriate personnel meet with the Compensation Committee to determine compensation and incentives and to review ongoing performance of the employee. The Chief Executive Officer’s and/or Executive Chairman’s performance and compensation are reviewed, evaluated and established separately by the Compensation Committee and ratified and approved by the board of directors.

Setting Compensation Levels

To evaluate whether total compensation is competitive and provides appropriate rewards to attract and retain talented leaders, as discussed above, we may rely on analyses of peer companies performed by independent compensation consultants and on other industry and occupation specific survey data available. Our general benchmark is to establish both base salary and total compensation for the executive officers at or near the compensation of peer group data, recognizing that a significant portion of executive officer total compensation should be contingent upon, or variable with, achievement of individual and Company performance objectives and strategic goals, as well as being variable with stockholder value. Further, while the objective for base salary is at that of peer group data, executives’ base salaries are designed to reward core competencies and contributions to the Company and may be increased above this general benchmark based on (i) the individual’s increased contribution over the preceding year; (ii) the individual’s increased responsibilities over the preceding year; and (iii) any increase in median competitive pay levels.

Setting Performance Objectives

The Company’s business plans and strategic objectives are generally presented by management annually and as needed to the board of directors. The board engages in an active discussion concerning the financial targets, the appropriateness of the strategic objectives and the difficulty in achieving the same. In establishing the compensation plan, our Compensation Committee then utilizes the primary financial targets and strategic objectives from the adopted business plan as the primary targets for determining the executive officers’ short-term cash incentives and long-term equity incentive compensation. The Committee also establishes additional non-financial performance goals and objectives, the achievement of which is required for funding of a significant portion, approximately twenty five percent, of the executive officers’ incentive compensation. In 2019, these non-financial performance goals and objectives included among other factors, divestiture of significant portions of the Power and Electromechanical segment, the identification and procurement process to enhance and enable the growth of the Company through strategic industry-specific acquisitions; the continued growth of the Orbital Gas Systems, North America operations; investment in VPS and reduction of costs at CUI-Canada; continued expansion within the global natural gas and energy markets; continued product development and new product introductions including various VE technology-based sample systems; and general and administrative management responsibilities. In addition, such factors as revenue growth; new product adoption; market penetration; M&A activities; and investment banking transactions were and are considered in setting compensation levels.

Annual Evaluation

The Chief Executive Officer and/or Executive Chairman recommends the actual incentive award amounts for all other executives based on actual Company performance relative to the targets set as well as on individual performance and recommends the executives’ base salary levels. The Compensation Committee considers these recommendations generally following the end of each fiscal year in determining its recommendations to the board of directors for the final short-term cash incentive and long-term equity award amounts for each executive. Executive base salary levels are reviewed in accordance with their respective employment agreements. The actual incentive amounts awarded to each executive are ultimately subject to the discretion of the Compensation Committee and the board of directors.

Voting Results on Executive Compensation (Say-on-Pay) Advisory Vote

As required by Section 14A of the Exchange Act, under the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, the Compensation Committee considers the prior year shareholder advisory vote on the compensation of the Named Executive Officers as appropriate for making compensation decisions. At the annual meeting of shareholders held December 3, 2019, 41% percent of the shareholders present and voting on the proposal approved, on an advisory basis, the compensation disclosed in the Company’s proxy statement for the meeting filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 2, 2019. As a result, the Compensation Committee concluded that the Company's shareholders were not supportive of the Company's executive compensation philosophy, policies and programs and the Compensation Committee will continue to reach out to shareholders regarding compensation matters. The Compensation Committee determined to review such philosophy, policies and programs, with such updates and modifications as appropriate for changing circumstances.

Special Evaluation

Additional equity-based awards may also be granted to executives, as well as other employees, upon commencement of employment, promotions, for special performance recognition or for retention purposes, based on the recommendation of the Chief Executive Officer or Chief Financial Officer. In determining whether to recommend additional grants to an executive, the Chief Executive Officer typically considers the individual’s performance and any planned change in functional responsibility.

Elements of Executive Compensation

Total Compensation

Total compensation for our executives consists of three elements: (i) base salary; (ii) incentive cash award based on achieving specific performance targets as measured by revenues, cash flow and other objectives and (iii) equity incentive award, which is also performance based and may be paid out over a future period in the form of stock, restricted stock, stock appreciation rights, or stock purchase options. Base salaries are the value upon which both the incentive compensation percentage targets are measured against. For evaluation and comparison of overall compensation of the executives and to assist it in making its compensation decisions, the Compensation Committee reviews an executive compensation summary, which sets forth for each executive: current compensation and current equity ownership holdings as well as the projected value of each and all such compensation elements, including distributions and dividends therefrom. Also included in the summary are comparative performance numbers, specific milestones, strategic objectives, and other elements used to measure each executive's individual performance.

Base Salaries

Base salaries are designed to compensate executives commensurate with their respective level of experience, scope of responsibilities and to reward sustained individual performance and future potential. The goal has been to provide for base salaries that are sufficiently competitive with other similar-sized companies, both regionally and nationally, to attract and retain talented leaders.

Incentive Compensation

Incentive compensation is intended to align compensation with business objectives and performance and enable the Company to attract, retain and reward high quality executive officers whose contributions are critical to both the short and long-term success of the Company. The executives’ incentive awards are based upon three key performance metrics: (i) the Company’s earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA); (ii) achievement of agreed-upon strategic and corporate performance goals; and/or (iii) existing Employment Agreement.

The strategic and corporate performance goals are not intended to be a specific agreed-upon goal, but rather a general objective. Management and the board of directors discuss these factors and set objectives that are dynamic and change periodically. In setting these periodic goals, the board of directors discusses with management the nature of the objective and management’s proposed method of achieving the goal. These goals change throughout the operational process because of changing dynamics such as economic conditions, current success of marketing, availability of materials, availability of funding and overall momentum toward achieving the goal.

Incentive Plan Compensation

Incentive awards are typically paid out in cash, restricted common stock or option awards. The incentive award targets for the executives are established at the beginning of the year, generally, as a percentage of their base salary and the actual awards are determined in the following year at a board of directors’ meetings based on actual Company performance relative to established goals and objectives, as well as on evaluation of the executive’s relevant departmental and individual performance during the past year. In many instances the award of restricted common stock and stock options vests over a multi-year term in equal periodic tranches. The award of restricted common stock purchased through options generally, although not in every instance, vests immediately upon exercise of the option and generally has a validity of up to ten years and a per share purchase price of no less than the fair market value of our common stock on the date of grant. The awards are intended to serve as a means of incentive compensation for performance.

Retirement Plans

CUI Global and its wholly owned subsidiaries, CUI Inc. and Orbital Gas Systems, North America, Inc. maintain a 401(k) plan. The Company 401(k) retirement savings plan allows employees to contribute to the plan after they have completed 60 days of service and are 18 years of age. The Company matches the employee’s contribution up to 6% of total compensation. Total employer contributions, net of forfeitures were $0.5 million, $0.5 million, and $0.4 million for 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively. These amounts include $0.3 million, $0.4 million, and $0.3 million associated with discontinued operations.

Involuntary Termination, Resignation for Good Reason and Change in Control

Our executives are awarded protection from involuntary termination, resignation for good reason and change in control specifically provided in their employment contracts.

Under involuntary termination without cause or resignation for good reason, the Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer each would receive any amounts earned, accrued or owing but not yet paid; full vesting of any unvested stock options and any deferred past bonuses that have been earned but not paid. Should the executive be terminated on account of disability he is entitled to 75% of his then current annual base salary for six months and eighteen months of medical coverage.

Under involuntary termination without cause or resignation for good reason, our Chief Financial Officer would receive any amounts earned, accrued or owing but not yet paid; full vesting of any unvested stock options and any deferred past bonuses that have been earned but not paid. Should the executive be terminated on account of disability he is entitled to 75% of his then current annual base salary for six months and eighteen months of medical coverage.

Perquisites

The Company does not provide for any perquisites or any other benefits for its senior executives that are not generally available to all employees.

Employment Agreements

During fiscal year 2019, four executive officers were employed under employment agreements. Those executive officers are:

Executive Chairman, General Counsel, former Chief Executive Officer;

Chief Executive Officer;

Chief Financial Officer of CUI Global, Inc. and Chief Operating Officer of the Energy Division; and

Former President of CUI Inc., and Chief Operating Officer of the Power and Electromechanical Division;

To see the material terms of each named executive officer’s employment agreement, please see the footnotes to the Summary Compensation Table.

Executive Salary and Bonus Performance Assessment Considerations

Bonuses for certain executive officers and employees of CUI Global and subsidiaries are calculated based on historical financial and non-financial information and accomplishments based on an ongoing review and approval by the Compensation Committee and the Chief Executive Officer. Accordingly, the Company accrues bonuses through components calculated on prior data. This review also considers ongoing performance and incentives for those officers and employees to increase their performance. As such, bonuses calculated based on fiscal 2019 data are not necessarily earned or owed to the employees as of December 31, 2019 and there is no legal right by the employees to receive such bonuses upon either termination by the Company or voluntary termination, unless they have been approved based on the subsequent review of subjective items.

The performance assessment considerations for William J. Clough, Esq. in his capacity as President, Chief Executive Officer and General Counsel of CUI Global, Inc. and subsidiaries through September 30, 2019 and Chief Legal Officer and Executive Chairman, thereafter, include his successful management and implementation of acquisition and growth strategy, both domestically and internationally, that resulted in the March 2015 asset acquisition of Tectrol, Inc., a Canadian electronics company by CUI Inc. and the highly lucrative February 2016 purchase order from Europe’s largest natural gas transmission company for our GasPT product. This purchase order culminates several years of Mr. Clough’s personal effort. The Tectrol asset purchase entailed complex labor union negotiations and ongoing management support. Mr. Clough continues to expand new technology development, implementation, branding and sales by strategically expanding the VE Technology product recognition through adoption of mercury sampling and thermowells. As a primary initiator of the Company’s growth strategy, he engineered the Company’s launch of Orbital Gas Systems, North America, Inc. as a unified international GasPT and VE Technology sales headquarters. Mr. Clough continues to expand investor relations and strengthen investment banking relationships through regular investor meetings and conferences. In addition, Mr. Clough is the point-person for the Company's mergers and acquisition (M&A) strategy. In that capacity:

Mr. Clough spearheaded the divestiture of both the CUI Electromechanical Division (to a Management-led group) and divestiture of the CUI Power Division (to Bel Fuse) for a combined value of approximately $44.2 million - comprised of forgiveness of a $5.3 million Note; receipt of a $5.0 million Note Payable; and approximately $33.9 million in cash after working capital adjustments;

Mr. Clough identified and recruited James F. O’Neil, CUI Global’s chief executive officer, in order to begin a strategic acquisition and divestiture strategy designed to make CUI Global an energy-centric, services company along the lines of Quanta (Mr. O’Neil’s prior employer) and MasTec; and,

Mr. Clough provides insight, tactics, targets, and potential relationships to expand the Company's opportunities through strategic partnerships and acquisitions. His efforts have included strategic relationships with SAMSON AG, Socrate S.p.A., Daily Thermetrics, and others, along with various acquisition opportunities currently being explored by the Company.

As Corporate General Counsel, Mr. Clough is “hands on” in his management of corporate governance and legal issues, addressing employee concerns, providing personal direction and oversight of drafting revised and restated corporate bylaws and regularly communicating with the directors pertaining to various corporate matters as they arise.

The performance assessment considerations for James F. O’Neil, Chief Executive Officer of CUI Global, Inc. and its subsidiaries since October 1, 2019, include his extensive experience and prior success at building shareholder value and significant return-on-investment. Mr. O’Neil is a veteran executive of the energy infrastructure industry and has been instrumental in formulating and overseeing execution on CUI Global’s transformation plan that reshapes the company into a diversified energy services platform.

The performance assessment considerations for Daniel N. Ford, Chief Financial Officer of CUI Global, Inc. and subsidiaries and Chief Operating Officer of the Energy Division include his successful management of financial resources for CUI Global and subsidiaries including investments, corporate portfolio, cash and debt positions. Mr. Ford’s daily duties include ongoing development and oversight of global banking relationships and overall financial performance oversight and management of the accounting staff of CUI Global, Inc. and all subsidiaries. In 2016, Mr. Ford added the responsibility of Chief Operating Officer for the Energy Division including direct management of the Division's leadership teams as well as coordinating ongoing activities, planning and initiatives to continue growth within this division on a global basis. Mr. Ford efficiently communicates with the board pertaining to company activities, audit results and findings, growth and acquisition strategy and investment tactics. Mr. Ford oversees SEC filing compliance, internal reporting matters, and works directly with internal and external audit and tax firms. As an integral part of this management, it is necessary that he continue to be up to date on all current accounting and SEC regulatory standards such as ICFR and SOX. Mr. Ford works closely with the Executive Chairman and CEO regarding financial reporting, Energy Division activities, divestitures, M&A, investments, investor management and investor relations activities. Mr. Ford is integral to the M&A efforts and assists with analysis and identification of specific strategic partnerships and acquisitions. Mr. Ford has been particularly involved in the integration of previous acquisitions including Tectrol (CUI-Canada), Orbital-UK, and the greenfield startup of Orbital North America within the CUI Global portfolio.

The performance assessment considerations for Matthew M. McKenzie, former President of CUI Inc. were directed toward corporate operations for the Power and Electromechanical Division. Mr. McKenzie managed the daily operations of CUI Inc., CUI Japan, and CUI-Canada, Inc. In 2019, Mr. McKenzie was instrumental in coordinating and consummating the sale of the CUI Power Division to Bel Fuse. Mr. McKenzie successfully managed the construction of our research and development facility and implementation of our ICE product development project. Mr. McKenzie was involved in the Company’s investment in Virtual Power Systems ("VPS") (the owner of the VPS software that empowers our ICE hardware) and in the Company's efforts to expand and strengthen its relationship with VPS. Mr. McKenzie’s employment contract allows for performance and discretionary bonuses. He and his management group (under the name Back Porch) purchased the CUI Electromechanical Division in late-2019.

Pay Ratio Disclosure Rule

In August 2015, pursuant to a mandate of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (the “Dodd - Frank Act”), the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) adopted a rule requiring annual disclosure of the ratio of the median employee’s annual total compensation to the total annual compensation of the principal executive officer (‟PEO”).  The Company’s PEO Mr. James F. O’Neil was appointed October 1, 2019.  Mr. O’Neil’s compensation has been annualized for 2019 pay ratio purposes. The purpose of the new required disclosure is to provide a measure of the equitability of pay within the organization.  The Company believes its compensation philosophy and process yield an equitable result and is presenting such information in compliance with the required disclosure as follows:

Median Employee total annual compensation

 $42,336 

Mr. O'Neil ("PEO") total annual compensation

 $798,876 

Ratio of PEO to Median Employee Compensation

 

19:1

 

When determining the median employee, we included the following compensation in our calculations:

Salary or wages

Bonuses

Stock awards

Other compensation including health insurance benefits, disability insurance benefits, life insurance benefits and 401(k) match benefits provided by the Company but excluding health and pension benefits provided by certain governments.

Mr. O’Neil’s actual compensation for 2019 along with details of his employment agreement can be reviewed in more detail in the Summary Compensation Table.

We elected to exclude our CUI-Japan sales office from the calculation due to there being less than 5% of the total number of employees there (5 employees).

Full and part-time employee compensation for employees that were hired during the year was annualized based on the average compensation they received during the period they were employed. The number of employees was determined as of December 31, 2019 when there were 252 total employees (Excluding CUI-Japan), 40 of which are considered US employees and 212 of which were considered non-US employees.

Summary Compensation Table

The following table sets forth the compensation paid and accrued to be paid by the Company for the fiscal years 2019, 20182020 and 20172019 to the Company’s Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and President of CUI Inc.Executive Chairman/Chief Legal Counsel

 

Summary Compensation Table

 

        

 

 

 

 

Non-
equity
Incentive

      

 

   

 

   

Stock

 

Option

 

Plan

   

All Other

 

 

Name and

Principal Position

 

Year

 

Salary

($)

   

Awards

($)

 

Awards

($)

 

Compensation

($) (9)

   

Compensation

($)

 

Total

($)

William J. Clough, Executive Chairman/ Chief Legal Counsel/former CEO/ Director (1)

 

2019

 

687,018

  

(2)

 

  

  

710,966

  

(2)

 

31,833

  

1,429,817

 
  

2018

 

559,660

  

(2)

 

  

  

552,428

  

(2)

 

33,077

  

1,145,165

 
  

2017

 

538,135

  

(2)

 

  

  

497,672

  

(2)

 

30,869

  

1,066,676

 

Daniel N. Ford, CFO/ COO - Energy Division (3)

 

2019

 

449,000

  

(4)

 

  

  

456,667

  

(4)

 

41,456

  

947,123

 
  

2018

 

350,000

  

(4)

 

  

  

254,789

  

(4)

 

40,238

  

645,027

 
  

2017

 

320,000

  

(4)

 

  

  

244,888

  

(4)

 

38,532

  

603,420

 

James F. O'Neil, CEO/Director (5)

 

2019

 

187,896

  

(6)

 

  

  

  

(6)

 

19,269

  

207,165

 

Matthew M. McKenzie, former COO - PEM Division/ former President of CUI, Inc./ former Director (7)

 

2019

 

251,633

  

(6)

 

  

  

509,674

  

(6)

 

34,723

  

796,030

 
  

2018

 

320,000

  

(6)

 

  

  

206,540

  

(6)

 

39,508

  

566,048

 
  

2017

 

292,465

  

(6)

 

  

  

107,105

  

(6)

 

37,848

  

437,418

 

Paul D. White, Senior Vice President/ Director (9)

                  
  

2018

 

225,000

  

(8)

 

  

  

155,000

  

(8)

 

32,717

  

412,717

 
  

2017

 

114,759

  

(8)

 

49,991

  

  

30,000

  

(8)

 

  

194,750

 

Name and Principal Position

Year

  Salary (dollars)       Stock Awards (dollars)       Option Awards (dollars)       Non-equity Incentive Plan Compensation (dollars)       All Other Compensation (dollars)   Total (dollars) 

William J. Clough, Executive Chairman/ Chief Legal Officer/former CEO/ Director (1)

2021

 $831,442   (2) $   (2) $3,203,800   (2) $531,250   (2) $18,669  $4,585,161 
 

2020

  759,363   (2)  21,887   (2)  288,085   (2)  300,000   (2)  27,768   1,397,103 

Daniel N. Ford, Executive Vice President (3)

2021

  581,442   (4)     (4)  2,652,034   (4)  265,625   (4)  36,761   3,535,862 
 

2020

  512,346   (4)  18,904   (4)  224,066   (4)  150,000   (4)  43,121   948,437 

James F. O'Neil, CEO/Vice Chairman/Director (5)

2021

  800,000   (6)     (6)  5,695,644   (6)     (6)  41,271   6,536,915 
 

2020

  753,563   (6)  8,937   (6)  120,036   (6)     (6)  47,797   930,333 

 

Footnotes:

 

1.

Mr. Clough joined the Company on September 1, 2005. Effective September 13, 2007, Mr. Clough was appointed CEO/President of CUI GlobalOrbital Energy Group and Chief Executive Officer of all wholly owned subsidiaries of the Company. Effective October 1, 2019 Mr. Clough stepped down as Chief Executive Officer and was appointed Executive Chairman and Chief Legal Counsel.

Officer.

 

2.

Mr. Clough is employed under a three-year employment contract with the Company, which became effective May 14, 2019. Said contract provides, in relevant part, for salary in year 1 of $750 thousand, year 2 of $800 thousand and year 3 of $850 thousand. The employment agreement includes bonus provisions for each calendar year targeted at seventy-five percent of base salary to be based on performance objectives, goals and milestones for each calendar year including company performance. Bonuses are approved based on various performance-related factors and an evaluation of current performance and includes a discretionary bonus of up to twenty-five percent of salary based upon the reasonable judgment of the compensation committee. Employee has the ability to earn a larger bonus based on the performance criteria set forth and the reasonable judgment and discretion of the compensation committee. Mr. Clough's employment agreement includes a grant for 1,600,000 options; however, the grant is subject to the approval of an equity incentive plan by shareholders within one year of the employment agreement. As of December 31, 2019, the shareholders have not approved an equity incentive plan. The agreement provides for up to $9,999 of annual premium life insurance expenses along with the ordinary benefits provided to employees of the Company. The agreement entitles Mr. Clough to severance package of 2.5 times the sum of annual base salary and target bonus along with eighteen months of medical coverage under the Company's medical plans. At December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017, there was an accrual of $0, $30 thousand, and $33 thousand, respectively, for compensation owed to Mr. Clough.

 

 

3.

Mr. Ford joined the Company May 15, 2008 and servesserved as Chief Financial Officer of CUI Global and subsidiaries, and Chief Operating Officer of the Energy Division.

until November 15, 2021 when he was appointed Executive Vice President.

 

4.

Mr. Ford is employed under a three-year employment contract with the Company, which became effective May 14, 2019. Said contract provides, in relevant part, for salary in year 1 of $500 thousand, year 2 of $550 thousand and year 3 of $600 thousand. The employment agreement includes bonus provisions for each calendar year targeted at seventy-five percent of base salary to be based on performance objectives, goals and milestones for each calendar year including company performance. Bonuses are approved based on various performance-related factors and an evaluation of current performance and includes a discretionary bonus of up to twenty-five percent of salary based upon the reasonable judgment of the compensation committee. Employee has the ability to earn a larger bonus based on the performance criteria set forth and the reasonable judgment and discretion of the compensation committee. Mr. Ford's employment agreement includes a grant for 960,000 options; however, the grants are subject to the approval of an equity incentive plan by shareholders within one year of the grant. As of December 31, 2019, the shareholders have not approved an equity incentive plan. The agreement provides for ordinary benefits provided to employees of the Company. The agreement entitles Mr. Ford to a severance package of 2.0 times the sum of annual base salary and target bonus along with eighteen months of medical coverage under the Company's medical plans. At December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017, there was an accrual of $0, $21 thousand, and $22 thousand, respectively, for compensation owed to Mr. Ford.

 

5.

Mr. O'Neil was appointed Director July 9, 2019 and was appointed Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer effective October 1, 2019.

 

6.

Mr. O'Neil is employed under a three-year employment contract with the Company, which became effective October 1, 2019. Said contract provides, in relevant part, for salary in year 1 of $750 thousand, year 2 of $800 thousand and year 3 of $850 thousand. The employment agreement includes bonus provisions for each calendar year targeted at seventy-five percent of base salary to be based on performance objectives, goals and milestones for each calendar year including company performance. Bonuses are approved based on various performance-related factors and an evaluation of current performance and includes a discretionary bonus of up to twenty-five percent of salary based upon the reasonable judgment of the compensation committee. Employee has the ability to earn a larger bonus based on the performance criteria set forth and the reasonable judgment and discretion of the compensation committee. Mr. O'Neil's employmentThe agreement includes a grantprovides for 1,000,000 options and he also received a grant for 600,000 options when he was initially appointedup to $9,999 of annual premium life insurance expenses along with the Board of Directors, however the grants are subjectordinary benefits provided to the approval of an equity incentive plan by shareholders within one yearemployees of the grants. Company. The agreement entitles Mr. O'Neil to a severance package of 2.5 times the sum of annual base salary and target bonus along with eighteen months of medical coverage under the Company's medical plans.

7.

As of December 31, 2019, the shareholders have not approved an equity incentive plan. The agreement provides for up to $9,9992021, Mr. Ford held 112,598 outstanding options. As of annual premium life insurance expenses along with the ordinary benefits provided to employees of the Company. The agreement entitlesDecember 31, 2021, Mr. Clough, Mr. Ford and Mr. O'Neil to a severance package of 2.5 times the sum of annual base salaryheld 1,350,000, 1,095,000, and target bonus along with eighteen months of medical coverage under the Company's medical plans.

1,787,500 cash settled stock appreciation rights, respectively.

 

7.

Mr. McKenzie joined the Company May 15, 2008 and served as President of CUI Inc. and Chief Operating Officer of the Power and Electromechanical Division. Effective September 30, 2019 Mr. McKenzie's employment was terminated with the disposition of the non-power supply electromechanical products group to Back Porch International, Inc.

8.

Mr. McKenzie was employed under a multi-year employment contract with the Company, which became effective July 1, 2013All other compensation includes health care, insurance and which was extended to run to and through December 31, 2019. Said contract provides, in relevant part, for salary in 2018 of $320 thousand, an annual 4% cost of living adjustment, an eighteen-month severance package and bonus provisions up to one hundred twenty-five percent of base salary to be based on performance objectives, goals, and milestones for each calendar year, including revenue performance in the Power and Electromechanical segment. The bonus includes a discretionary bonus of up to twenty-five percent of salary based upon the reasonable judgment of the compensation committee. Employee has the ability to earn a larger bonus based on the performance criteria set forth and the reasonable judgment and discretion of the compensation committee. Bonuses are approved quarterly based on the above factors and an evaluation of current performance. All such bonus payments shall be paid to Mr. McKenzie in equal monthly installments following the period in which the bonus is earned and shall be paid on the 15th day of each month. At December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017, there was an accrual of $0, $18 thousand, and $12 thousand, respectively, for compensation owed to Mr. McKenzie. Mr. McKenzie terminated his employment with CUI Inc. to lead Back Porch International Inc.'s purchase of the electromechanical components business that was announced in October 2019.401(k) matching benefits.

 

9.

Mr. White served as President of Orbital Gas Systems, Ltd. from July 2017, initially in a consulting role, until July 2019. Upon accepting the permanent role of President of Orbital Gas Systems, Ltd. effective December 1, 2017, Mr. White ceased to be independent as a director of the Company. In July 2019, Mr. White became Senior Vice President for CUI Global.

10.

Mr. White is employed under a three-year employment contract with the Company through December 1, 2020 and provides, in relevant part, for an initial annual salary of $225 thousand in year 1 along with a $30 thousand one-time signing bonus, and increases to $250 thousand and $275 thousand in years 2 and 3, respectively, a severance of the Executive’s salary for the remainder of his severance term upon termination, bonus provisions to be based on performance objectives, goals, and milestones for each calendar year, including revenue performance at Orbital-UK. The bonus includes a discretionary bonus of up to twenty-five percent of salary based upon the reasonable judgment of the compensation committee. Employee has the ability to earn a larger bonus based on the performance criteria set forth and the reasonable judgment and discretion of the compensation committee. Bonuses are approved on an ongoing basis based on the above factors and an evaluation of current performance. All such bonus payments shall be paid to Mr. White following the period in which the bonus is earned. During 2017, Mr. White received $50 thousand of cash compensation and $50 thousand of stock awards for his services as an independent director. Further, during his time during the year ended December 31, 2017 serving as a consultant as interim President of Orbital Gas Systems, Limited, Mr. White received $46 thousand of compensation. At December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, there was an accrual of $0, $155 thousand, and $40 thousand, respectively, for compensation owed to Mr. White.

11.

As of December 31, 2019, William J. Clough, CEO/Director held 558,085 outstanding options, Daniel N. Ford, CFO held 125,196 outstanding options, Matthew M. McKenzie, COO/Director held 86,800 outstanding options, and Paul D. White, Senior Vice President/Director held 7,500 options.

12.

All other compensation includes health care, insurance and 401(k) matching benefits.

 

The following table summarizes potential payments upon termination of employment to each of the named executive officers employed on the last day of our most recently completed fiscal year. The amounts set forth in the table are based on the assumption that the triggering event occurred on the last business day of our last completed fiscal year.

 

   

Involuntary

   
   

Termination or

   
   

Resignation for

 

Termination

 
   

Good Reason

 

upon Disability

 

Name

 

Benefit

 

Involuntary

Termination or

Resignation for

Good Reason

$

  

Termination

upon Disability

$

  

Benefit

       
               

William J. Clough, Executive Chairman/ Chief Legal Counsel/ former CEO/Director

 

Salary and bonus continuation

 

$

3,281,250

(1)

 

$

281,250

(1)

Benefits

 

47,750

(1)

 

71,624

(1)

         

Salary and bonus continuation

 $3,718,750(1) $318,750(1)

Daniel N. Ford, Chief Financial Officer/ COO - Energy Division

 

Salary and bonus continuation

 

1,750,000

(2)

 

187,500

(2)

Benefits

 

36,984

(2)

 

55,476

(2)

William J. Clough, Executive Chairman/ Chief Legal Officer/ former CEO/Director

 

Benefits

 28,003(1) 28,003(1)
       
 

Salary and bonus continuation

 2,100,000(2) 225,000(2)

Daniel N. Ford, Chief Financial Officer

 

Benefits

 29,042(2) 29,042(2)
       
         

Salary and bonus continuation

 3,718,750(3) 318,750(3)

James F. O'Neil, CEO/ Director

 

Salary and bonus continuation

 

3,281,250

(3)

 

281,250

(3)

 

Benefits

 37,906(3) 37,906(3)

Benefits

 

48,114

(3)

 

72,171

(3)

 

 

1.

Mr. Clough's employment contract with the Company entitles Mr. Clough to a severance package of 2.5 times the sum of annual base salary and target bonus along with eighteen months of medical coverage under the Company's medical plans. Under involuntary termination without cause or resignation for good reason, Mr. Clough would receive any amounts earned, accrued or owing but not yet paid; full vesting of any unvested stock options and any deferred past bonuses that have been earned but not paid. Should Mr. Clough be terminated on account of disability he is entitled to 75% of his then current annual base salary for six months and eighteen months of medical coverage.

 

 

2.

Mr. Ford's employment contract with the Company entitles Mr. Ford to a severance package of 2.0 times the sum of annual base salary and target bonus along with eighteen months of medical coverage under the Company's medical plans. Under involuntary termination without cause or resignation for good reason, Mr. Ford would receive any amounts earned, accrued or owing but not yet paid; full vesting of any unvested stock options and any deferred past bonuses that have been earned but not paid. Should Mr. Ford be terminated on account of disability he is entitled to 75% of his then current annual base salary for six months and eighteen months of medical coverage.

 

 

3.

Mr. O'Neil's employment contract with the Company entitles Mr. CloughO'Neil to a severance package of 2.5 times the sum of annual base salary and target bonus along with eighteen months of medical coverage under the Company's medical plans. Under involuntary termination without cause or resignation for good reason, Mr. O'Neil would receive any amounts earned, accrued or owing but not yet paid; full vesting of any unvested stock options and any deferred past bonuses that have been earned but not paid. Should Mr. O'Neil be terminated on account of disability he is entitled to 75% of his then current annual base salary for six months and eighteen months of medical coverage under the Company's medical plans. Under involuntary termination without cause or resignation for good reason, Mr. O'Neil would receive any amounts earned, accrued or owing but not yet paid; full vesting of any unvested stock options and any deferred past bonuses that have been earned but not paid. Should Mr. O'Neil be terminated on account of disability he is entitled to 75% of his then current annual base salary for six months and eighteen months of medical coverage.

2019 Grants of Plan-Based Awards

    

Estimated Future Payouts

Under Non-Equity Incentive

Plan Awards (1)

 

Name

 

Grant Date

 

Threshold

  

Target

  

Maximum

 
    

($)

  

($)

  

($)

 

William J. Clough

 

Non-equity award

     515,264   858,773 

Daniel N. Ford

 

Non-equity award

     336,750   561,250 

James F. O'Neil

 

Non-equity award

     140,922   234,870 

(1) These columns show the possible payouts for each named executive officer under the Incentive Plan for 2019 based on the goals set. Additional information is included in the Compensation Discussion and Analysis, and detail regarding actual awards under the Incentive Plan is reported in the Summary Compensation Table.

 

 

Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End

The following table sets forth the outstanding equity awards at December 31, 20192021 to each of the named executive officers:

 

OUTSTANDING EQUITY AWARDS AT FISCAL YEAR END

Name

 

Number of

Securities

Underlying

Unexercised

Options (#)

Exercisable

  

Option Exercise

Price ($)

 

Option

Expiration

William J. Clough (1)

  5,422   9.00 

10/11/2020

Daniel N. Ford (1)

  12,598   9.00 

10/11/2020

Matthew M. McKenzie (1)

  15,100   9.00 

10/11/2020

Matthew M. McKenzie (1)

  3,300   9.00 

10/11/2020

William J. Clough (2)

  19,363   4.56 

4/16/2022

William J. Clough (2)

  3,300   4.56 

4/16/2022

Daniel N. Ford (2)

  12,598   4.56 

4/16/2022

Matthew M. McKenzie (2)

  15,100   4.56 

4/16/2022

Matthew M. McKenzie (2)

  3,300   4.56 

4/16/2022

William J. Clough (3)

  330,000   6.00 

9/21/2022

William J. Clough (4)

  200,000   6.25 

6/24/2023

Daniel N. Ford (4)

  100,000   6.25 

6/24/2023

Matthew M. McKenzie (4)

  50,000   6.25 

6/24/2023

OUTSTANDING EQUITY AWARDS AT FISCAL YEAR END

              

Name

 

Number of Securities Underlying Unexercised Options (#)

  

Option Exercise Price ($)

 

Option Expiration

 

Payout Value of Unexercised In-the-Money Options/SARs at Fiscal Year-End ($)

 

Daniel N. Ford (1)

  12,598   4.56 

4/16/2022

   

Daniel N. Ford (2)

  100,000   6.25 

6/24/2023

   

William J. Clough (3)

  450,000   1.00 

6/1/2026

  535,500 

Daniel N. Ford (3)

  350,000   1.00 

6/1/2026

  416,500 

James F. O'Neil (3)

  187,500   1.00 

6/1/2026

  223,125 

William J. Clough (4)

  900,000   2.89 

4/23/2024

   

Daniel N. Ford (4)

  745,000   2.89 

4/23/2024

   

James F. O'Neil (4)

  1,600,000   2.89 

4/23/2024

   

 

Footnotes:

 

1.

Effective October 11, 2010, Mr. Clough, Mr. Ford and Mr. McKenzie received bonus options to purchase 37,177 (5,422 remaining outstanding), 12,598 and 15,100 common shares, respectively, within ten years from date of issuance, at a price of $9.00 per share that vested over 4 years: 25% at year one and thereafter in equal monthly installments. Additionally, effective October 11, 2010, for service as a director of the Company, Mr. McKenzie received an option to purchase 3,300 common shares within ten years from date of issuance at a price of $9.00 per share that vested one year after issuance.

2.

Effective April 16, 2012, Mr. Clough, Mr. Ford and Mr. McKenzie received bonus options to purchase 37,177 (19,363 remaining outstanding), 12,598 and 15,100 common shares respectively, within ten years from date of issuance, at a price of $4.56 per share that vested over 4 years: 25% at year one and thereafter in equal monthly installments. Additionally, effective April 16, 2012, for their service as directors of the Company,

2.

Effective June 24, 2013, Mr. Clough and Mr. McKenzie eachFord received an optionbonus options to purchase 3,300100,000 common shares within ten years from date of issuance, at a price of $4.56$6.25 per share that vested one third per year after issuance.over 3 years.

 

3.

Effective September 21, 2012, under the terms of his contract extension,June 1, 2020, Mr. Clough, Mr. Ford and Mr. O'Neil received a bonus option to purchase 330,000 common shares,450,000, 350,000 and 187,500 cash-settled stock appreciation rights, respectively, within ten6 years from the date of issuance, at a price of $6.00$1.00 per share that vestedvest in equal monthly installments over 42 years.

 

4.

Effective June 24, 2013,April 23, 2021, Mr. Clough, Mr. Ford, and Mr. McKenzieO'Neil received bonus options to purchase 200,000, 100,000900,000, 745,000 and 50,000 common shares,1,600,000 cash-settled stock appreciation rights, respectively, within ten3 years from the date of issuance, at a price of $6.25$2.89 per share that vested one third per yearvests in equal monthly installments over 3 years.

 

 

Director Compensation

 

For 2019,2021, each of our directors received the following compensation pursuant to our director compensation plan:

 

Non-employee directors earned/received annual compensation of $100,000.

 

The $100,000 annual compensation for non-employee directors is issued in the form of $50,000 cash compensation and $50,000 common stock calculated by using the Nasdaq Stock Market closing price per share on the date of issuance.

In addition, the Chairman and member of the Investment Committee received an additional $67,500 and $22,500, respectively, for their services.

At the election of each director, all or any portion of the cash compensation may be converted to stock purchase options calculated by using the strike price of ten percent (10%) above the Nasdaq Stock Market closing price per share on the date of grant.

At the election of each director, all or any portion of the cash compensation may be converted to stock calculated by using the Nasdaq Stock Market closing price per share on the date of conversion.

The $100,000 annual compensation for non-employee directors is issued in the form of $50,000 cash compensation and $50,000 common stock calculated by using the Nasdaq Stock Market closing price per share on the date of issuance. In addition, the chairman and member of the Investment Committee received $84,500 and $58,500, respectively of additional cash compensation for their services. 
In March 2021, each director received a 20,000 one-time award for director compensation under the Company's 2020 Equity Compensation Plan.

At the election of each director, all or any portion of the cash compensation may be converted to stock purchase options calculated by using the strike price of ten percent (10%) above the Nasdaq Stock Market closing price per share on the date of grant. 

At the election of each director, all or any portion of the cash compensation may be converted to stock calculated by using the Nasdaq Stock Market closing price per share on the date of conversion. 

 

The following table sets forth the compensation of the non-employee directors for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019:2021:

 

 

 

     

Non-

       
 

 

     

Equity

 

Nonqualified

     
 

Fees

     

Incentive

 

Deferred

     
 

paid in

 

Stock

 

Option

 

Plan

 

Compensation

 

All Other

   
 

Fees

earned

or

paid in

Cash

  

Stock

Awards

  

Option

Awards

  

Non-

Equity

Incentive

Plan

Compensation

  

Nonqualified

Deferred

Compensation

Earnings

  

All Other

Compensation

  

Total

  

Cash

 

Awards

 

Awards

 

Compensation

 

Earnings

 

Compensation

 

Total

 

Name

 

($)

  

($)

  

($)

  

($)

  

($)

  

($)

  

($)

  

($) (1)

  

($)

  

($)

  

($)

  

($)

  

($)

  

($)

 
                             

C. Stephen Cochennet

 $72,503  $49,997  $  $  $  $  $122,500 

Paul Addison, Director

 $28,851 $28,842 $ $ $ $ $57,693 
 

C. Stephen Cochennet, Director

  146,006   159,194               305,200 
                             

Corey A. Lambrecht, Director

  117,503   49,997               167,500  172,006  159,194          331,200 
                             

Sean P. Rooney, Director

  50,003   49,997               100,000  75,006  146,694          221,700 
                             

Sarah Tucker, Director (1)

  12,501   12,499               25,000 

Jerry Sue Thornton, Director

 20,837 20,830     41,667 
 

Sarah Tucker, Director

 87,506  159,194          246,700 
 

La Forrest Williams, Director

 20,837 20,830     41,667 

 

Footnotes:

(1) Ms. Tucker was appointed to the Board of Directors, effective October 1, 2019.

 

 

Item 12.  Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters

 

Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management

 

The following table sets forth certain information regarding beneficial ownership of our voting shares as of December 31, 20192021 by: (i) each shareholderstockholder known by us to be the beneficial owner of 5% or more of the outstanding voting shares, (ii) each of our directors and executives and (iii) all directors and executive officers as a group. Except as otherwise indicated, we believe that the beneficial owners of the voting shares listed below, based on information furnished by such owners, have sole investment and voting power with respect to such shares, subject to community property laws where applicable. Shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of options and warrants that are currently exercisable or that will become exercisable within 60 days of December 31, 20192021 have been included in the table.

 

No shares of preferred stock are outstanding at the date of this report.

 

Beneficial Interest Table

 

Name and Address of Beneficial Owner (1)

 

Number of

Securities

Owned

  

Percentages of

Shares

Beneficially

Owned (2)

 

William J. Clough (3)

  693,251   2.40

%

James F O'Neil

  495,212   1.74

%

C. Stephen Cochennet (4)

  104,333   * 

Daniel N. Ford (5)

  206,000    * 

Corey A. Lambrecht (6)

  116,638    * 

Sean P. Rooney (7)

  134,465    * 

Paul D. White (8)

  50,727    * 

Sarah Tucker

  14,044    * 

Bleichroeder LP

        

1345 Avenue of the Americas, 47th Floor, New York, NY 10105

  3,700,542   13.04

%

Heartland Advisors, Inc.

        

789 North Water Street, Milwaukee, WI 53202

  1,756,090   6.19

%

Officers, Directors, Executives as Group

  1,814,670   6.34

%

      

Percentages of

 
  

Number of

  

Shares

 
  

Securities

  

Beneficially

 

Name and Address of Beneficial Owner (1)

 

Owned

  

Owned (2)

 

Paul T. Addison (3)

  8,756   *%

William J. Clough (4)

  319,480   *%

James F. O'Neil (5)

  1,200,263   1.47%

C. Stephen Cochennet (6)

  184,667   *%

Daniel N. Ford (7)

  220,433   *%

Corey A. Lambrecht (8)

  193,672   *%

Jerry Sue Thornton (9)

  6,709   *%

Sarah Tucker (10)

  94,378   *%

Paul D. White (11)

  50,727   *%

La Forrest V. Williams (12)

  6,709   *%

Kurt A. Johnson, Jr.

        

15502 Bayou Oaks Drive, Danbury, Texas 77534

  4,408,807   5.38%

Tidal Power Group LLC

        

4211 Chance Lane, Rosharon, Texas 77583

  7,213,211   8.81%

Officers, Directors, Executives as Group

  2,435,740   2.97%

 

Footnotes:

 

1.

Except as otherwise indicated, the address of each beneficial owner is c/o CUI Global,Orbital Energy Group, Inc., 20050 SW 112th Avenue, Tualatin, Oregon 97062.1924 Aldine Western, Houston, Texas 77038.

 

2.

Calculated on the basis of 28,383,37381,906,676 shares of common stock issued and outstanding at December 31, 20192021 except that shares of common stock underlying options exercisable within 60 days and issued within 60 days and issued within 60 days of the date hereof are deemed to be outstanding for purposes of calculating the beneficial ownership of securities of such holder of options and shares. A * denotes less than 1 percent beneficially owned.

 

3.

Mr. Clough’s common stock includes vested options to purchase 558,085 common shares. Addison is a Director.

4.Mr. Clough is a Director, Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer/President/General CounselLegal Officer of CUI Global,Orbital Energy Group, Inc.

 

4.5.

Mr. O'Neil is a Director, and Chief Executive Officer of Orbital Energy Group, Inc.

6.

Mr. Cochennet was appointed to the board of directors in December 2017.is a Director.

 

5.7.

Mr. Ford’s shares include vested options to purchase 125,196112,598 common shares. Mr. Ford is theExecutive Vice President and former Chief Financial Officer of CUI Global,Orbital Energy Group, Inc. and Chief Operating Officer for the Energy Division.

 

6.8.

Mr. Lambrecht’s shares include vested options to purchase 16,60013,300 common shares. Mr. Lambrecht is a Director.

9.

Ms. Thornton is a Director.

10.Ms. Tucker is a Director.

 

7.

Mr. Rooney’s shares include vested options to purchase 36,987 common shares. Mr. Rooney is a Director.

8.11.

Mr. White’s shares include vested options to purchase 7,500 common shares. Mr. White is a Director and President of Orbital-UK.Director.

12.Mr. Williams is a Director.

 

We relied upon Section 4(2) of the Securities Act of 1933 as the basis for an exemption from registration for the issuance of the above securities.

 

 

Employee Equity Incentive Plans

At December 31, 2019,2021, the Company had outstanding the following equity compensation plan information:

 

       
 

Number of

securities to

be issued upon

exercise

of outstanding

options,

warrants and

rights

  

Weighted-

average

exercise price

of

outstanding

options

warrants and

rights

  

Future issuance under

equity compensation

plans (excluding

securities reflected in

column (a)

  

Number of securities to be issued upon exercise of outstanding options, warrants and rights

 

Weighted-average exercise price of outstanding options, warrants and rights

 

Future issuance under equity compensation plans (excluding securities reflected in column (a))

 

Plan Category

 

(a)

  

(b)

  

(c)

  

(a)

 

(b)

 

(c)

 

Equity compensation plans approved by security holders

  10,167  $5.42     2,500  $4.58  4,130,665 

Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders

  839,468   6.25      235,485   6.16    
  849,635  $6.24      237,985  $6.14   4,130,665 

 

Equity Compensation Plans Approved by ShareholdersStockholders

On May 16, 2008 the Company’s board of directors adopted the 2008 Equity Incentive Plan and authorized 1,500,000 shares of Common Stock to fund the Plan which was approved by the Company shareholders at the 2008 Annual Meeting of Shareholders. At the 2009 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, the shareholders approved an amendment to the 2008 Equity Incentive Plan to increase the number of common shares issuable under the plan from 1,500,000 to 3,000,000. These shares have been registered under Form S-8.

As of December 31, 20192020 there are no remaining shares available to grant under the 2008 Equity Incentive Plan.

At the 2020 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, the Company’s shareholders approved the Orbital Energy Group 2020 Incentive Award Plan and authorized a share limit of 2,000,000 shares. At the 2021 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, the Company's shareholders approved an increase in authorized share limit to 5,000,000.

The purpose of the Orbital Energy Group 2020 Incentive Award Plan is to enhance our ability to attract, retain and motivate persons who make (or are expected to make) important contributions to Orbital Energy Group by providing these individuals with equity ownership opportunities. Equity awards are intended to motivate high levels of performance and align the interests of our directors, employees and consultants with those of our stockholders by giving directors, employees and consultants the perspective of an owner with an equity stake in Orbital Energy Group and providing a means of recognizing their contributions to the success of Orbital Energy Group. Our board of directors and management believe that equity awards are necessary to remain competitive in its industry and are essential to recruiting and retaining the highly qualified employees who help Orbital Energy Group meet its goals. A primary purpose of the plan is to provide OEG with appropriate capacity to issue equity compensation in anticipation of future acquisitions. 

The Orbital Energy Group 2020 Incentive Award Plan provides for the grant of stock options, including ISOs and nonqualified stock options (“NSOs”), stock appreciation rights (“SARs”), restricted stock, dividend equivalents, restricted stock units (“RSUs”) and other stock or cash-based awards. Certain awards under the Orbital Energy Group 2020 Incentive Award Plan may constitute or provide for payment of “nonqualified deferred compensation” under Section 409A of the Code. All awards under the Orbital Energy Group 2020 Incentive Award Plan will be set forth in the award agreement, which will detail the terms and conditions of awards, including any applicable vesting and payment terms and post termination exercise limitations. All Awards shall be subject to a minimum vesting of one year from the Grant Date. A brief description of each award type follows.

Stock Options and SARs. Stock options provide for the purchase of shares of common stock of Orbital Energy Group in the future at an exercise price set on the grant date. ISOs, in contrast to NSOs, may provide tax deferral beyond exercise and favorable capital gains tax treatment to their holders if certain holding period and other requirements of the Code are satisfied. SARs entitle their holder, upon exercise, to receive from Orbital Energy Group an amount equal to the appreciation of the shares subject to the award between the grant date and the exercise date. The plan administrator will determine the number of shares covered by each option and SAR, the exercise price of each option and SAR and the conditions and limitations applicable to the exercise of each option and SAR. The exercise price of a stock option or SAR will not be less than 100% of the fair market value of the underlying share on the grant date (or 110% in the case of ISOs granted to certain significant stockholders), except with respect to certain substitute awards granted in connection with a corporate transaction. The term of a stock option or SAR may not be longer than five years and are subject to any limitations of the Plan or that the Administrator may impose or provide in the Award Agreement.

Restricted Stock. Restricted stock is an award of nontransferable shares of common stock of Orbital Energy Group that remain forfeitable unless and until specified conditions are met and which may be subject to a purchase price. Upon issuance of restricted stock, recipients generally have the rights of a stockholder with respect to such shares, which generally include the right to receive dividends and other distributions in relation to the award. The terms and conditions applicable to restricted stock will be determined by the plan administrator, subject to the conditions and limitations contained in the Orbital Energy Group 2020 Incentive Award Plan.

RSUsRSUs are contractual promises to deliver shares of common stock of Orbital Energy Group in the future, which may also remain forfeitable unless and until specified conditions are met and may be accompanied by the right to receive the equivalent value of dividends paid on shares of common stock of Orbital Energy Group prior to the delivery of the underlying shares (i.e., dividend equivalent rights). The Company accounts for forfeitures of employee awards as they occur. The plan administrator may provide that the delivery of the shares underlying RSUs will be deferred on a mandatory basis or at the election of the participant. The terms and conditions applicable to RSUs will be determined by the plan administrator, subject to the conditions and limitations contained in the Orbital Energy Group 2020 Incentive Award Plan or as provided in the Award Agreement.

Other Stock or Cash Based Awards. Other stock or cash-based awards are awards of cash, shares of common stock of Orbital Energy Group and other awards valued wholly or partially by referring to, or otherwise based on, shares of common stock of Orbital Energy Group or other property. Other stock or cash-based awards may be granted to participants and may also be available as a payment form in the settlement of other awards, as standalone payments and as payment in lieu of compensation to which a participant is otherwise entitled. The plan administrator will determine the terms and conditions of other stock or cash-based awards, which may include any purchase price, performance goal, transfer restrictions and vesting conditions, subject to the conditions and limitations in the Orbital Energy Group 2020 Incentive Award Plan or as provided in the Award Agreement.

The Orbital Energy Group 2020 Incentive Award Plan provides that the plan administrator may establish compensation for non-employee directors from time to time subject to the Orbital Energy Group 2020 Incentive Award Plan’s limitations. The plan administrator will from time to time determine the terms, conditions and amounts of all non-employee director compensation in its discretion and pursuant to the exercise of its business judgment, taking into account such factors, circumstances and considerations as it shall deem relevant from time to time, provided that, the sum of any cash compensation or other compensation and the grant date fair value of any equity awards granted under the Orbital Energy Group 2020 Incentive Award Plan as compensation for services as a non-employee director during any fiscal year may not exceed $250,000 per year of a non-employee director’s service as a non-employee director. The non-employee Director receiving such additional compensation may not participate in the decision to award such compensation or in other contemporaneous compensation decisions involving the non-employee Director.

As of December 31, 2021 there are 4,130,665 remaining shares available to grant under the 2020 Incentive Award Plan.

Equity Compensation Plans Not Approved by ShareholdersStockholders

Pursuant to a board resolution in January 2009, following recommendation by the Compensation Committee, the 2009 Equity Incentive Plan (Executive), a Non-Qualified Stock Option Plan, was created and funded with 4,200,000 shares of $0.001 par value common stock. The Compensation Committee was appointed as the Plan Administrator to manage the plan. In October 2010 and September 2012, the board of directors authorized an additional 3,060,382 and 330,000 options, respectively, under the 2009 Equity Incentive Plan (Executive).

 

Issuances of stock options under the 2009 Equity Incentive Plan (Executive) were made to attract, retain and motivate executive and management employees and directors and to encourage these individuals to acquire an equity interest in the Company, to make monetary payments to certain management employees and directors based upon the value of the Company’s stock and to provide these individuals with an incentive to maximize the success of the Company and further the interest of the shareholders. The 2009 Plan allowed for the issuance of Incentive Non-Statutory Options.

 

The Company has outstanding at December 31, 2019,2021, the following options issued under equity compensation plans not approved by security holders:

 

During 2010, the Company issued options to purchase restricted common stock at $9.00 per share to officers and directors as follows: 19,800 options that vest one year after the October 11, 2010 grant date and 82,213 options that vest over four years, 25% at one year after the grant date, thereafter in equally monthly installments. Of these 2010 grants, 51,321 remain outstanding and fully vested at December 31, 2019.

During 2012, the Company granted options to purchase restricted common stock at $4.56 per share to officers and directors as follows: 19,800 options that vest one year after the April 16, 2012 grant date; 64,875 options that vest over four years, 25% at one year after the grant date, thereafter in equal monthly installments, and 330,000 options to purchase restricted common stock at $6.00 per share were granted to an officer that vest in equal monthly installments over the course of forty-eight consecutive months beginning September 2012. Of these 2012 grants, 390,261 remain outstanding and fully vested at December 31, 2019.

During 2012, the Company granted options to purchase restricted common stock at $4.56 per share to officers and directors as follows: 19,800 options that vest one year after the April 16, 2012 grant date; 64,875 options that vest over four years, 25% at one year after the grant date, thereafter in equal monthly installments, and 330,000 options to purchase restricted common stock at $6.00 per share were granted to an officer that vest in equal monthly installments over the course of forty-eight consecutive months beginning September 2012. Of these 2012 grants, 37,598 remain outstanding and fully vested at December 31, 2021.

During 2013, the Company issued 350,000 options to purchase restricted common stock at $6.25 per share to three officers as follows: one third that vest one year after the June 24, 2013 grant date, one third that vest two years after the grant date and the balance that vest three years after the grant date. At December 31, 2021, 150,000 of these 2013 granted options are outstanding and fully vested.

During 2014, the Company issued options to purchase 10,000 shares of restricted common stock at a price of $6.92 per share to each board member who is not an employee of the Company. The options vested in twelve equal installments during 2014. The Company issued options to purchase 42,890 restricted shares of common stock at a price of $6.92 per share to two board members, who chose to receive a portion of their annual board compensation in the form of equity. The Company granted options to purchase 7,500 restricted shares of common stock at a price of $8.15 per share to each of the two then newly elected directors that vested August 31, 2015. Of these 2014 options grants, 47,887 options are outstanding and fully vested at December 31, 2021.

 

During 2013, the Company issued 350,000 options to purchase restricted common stock at $6.25 per share to three officers as follows: one third that vest one year after the June 24, 2013 grant date, one third that vest two years after the grant date and the balance that vest three years after the grant date. At December 31, 2019, 350,000 of these 2013 granted options are outstanding and fully vested.

During 2014, the Company issued options to purchase 10,000 shares of restricted common stock at a price of $6.92 per share to each board member who is not an employee of the Company. The options vested in twelve equal installments during 2014. The Company issued options to purchase 42,890 restricted shares of common stock at a price of $6.92 per share to two board members, who chose to receive a portion of their annual board compensation in the form of equity. The Company granted options to purchase 7,500 restricted shares of common stock at a price of $8.15 per share to each of the two newly elected directors that vested August 31, 2015. Of these 2014 options grants, 47,887 options are outstanding and fully vested at December 31, 2019.

 

As of December 31, 2019,2021, there are no remaining shares available to grant under the 2009 Equity Incentive Plan (Executive).

 

The description of the Company’s capital stock does not purport to be complete and is subject to and qualified by its Articles of Incorporation, Bylaws, and amendments thereto and by the provisions of applicable Colorado law. The Company’s transfer agent is Computershare Trust Company, Inc., 350 Indiana Street, Suite 800, Golden, Colorado 80401.

 

Item 13.  Certain Relationships and Related Transactions and Director Independence

 

The Board of Directors is responsible for the review and approval of all related party transactions. Although the Board does not have written policies and procedures with respect to the review of related party transactions, we intend that any such transactions will be reviewed by the Board of Directors or one of its committees, which will consider all relevant facts and circumstances and will consider, among other factors:

 

the material terms of the transaction;

the nature of the relationship between the Company and the related party;

the significance of the transaction to the Company; and

whether or not the transaction would be likely to impair (or create the appearance of impairing) the judgment of a director or executive officer to act in the best interest of the Company.

the material terms of the transaction;

the nature of the relationship between the Company and the related party;

the significance of the transaction to the Company; and

whether or not the transaction would be likely to impair (or create the appearance of impairing) the judgment of a director or executive officer to act in the best interest of the Company.

 

Except as set forth herein, no related party of the Company, including, but not limited to, any director, officer, nominee for director, immediate family member of a director or officer, immediate family member of any nominee for director, security holder that beneficially owns, directly or indirectly, shares carrying more than 5% of the voting rights attached to its outstanding shares, or immediate family member of any such security holder, since the beginning of fiscal year 2019,2021, has any material interest, direct or indirect, in any transaction or in any presently proposed transaction with the Company where the amount involved exceeds $120,000 which has or will materially affect the Company.

 

Chief Legal CounselOfficer and Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors, William J. Clough’s son, Nicholas J. Clough, serves as Vice President at Orbital Gas Systems, North America, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company.Greenfield Operations. Additional Information on Nicholas Clough’s compensation is included in Note 11 Related Party Transactions, to the Consolidated Financial Statements under Part II, Item 8, ‘‘Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.’’

 

 

Item 14.  Principal Accountants Fees and Services

 

Fees or controlled billings for services billed by the Company’s principal accountant, Perkins & Company, P.C. through June 20, 2019 and Grant Thornton LLP, from June 20, 2019 through December 31, 2019, were as follows:

 

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

  

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

(In thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

2021

  

2020

 

Audit fees (1)

 $738  $614  $1,064  $725 

Audit related fees

  125   127 

Tax fees and other fees (2)

  30   83   242   106 

Total Fees

 $893  $824  $1,306  $831 

(1)

FeesIncludes fees for audit of the Company's consolidated financial statements, review of the related quarterly financial statements, and expensesservices that are normally provided by our independent registered public accounting firm in connection with the statutory and regulatory filings, including reviews of documents filed with the SEC.

(2)

Includes fees for tax planning and tax compliance/preparation fees for professional services rendered in connection with the auditby our independent registered public accounting firm to certain subsidiaries of the Company's financial statements and internal control over financial reporting and the reviews of the financial statements included in each of the Company's quarterly reports on Form 10-Q.

(2)

Tax fees are lower in 2019 as a result of the Company's tax returns prepared in 2019 not being prepared by the principal accountant.Company.

 

In accordance with the requirements of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, the Audit Committee has adopted an informal approval policy that it believes will result in an effective and efficient procedure to pre-approve services performed by the independent registered public accounting firm.

 

Section 16(A) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance

Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 requires our executive officers, directors and persons owning more than 10% of our common stock to file reports of ownership and reports of changes of ownership with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These reporting persons are required to furnish us with copies of all Section 16(a) forms that they file. We have made all officers and directors aware of their reporting obligations and have appointed an employee to oversee Section 16 compliance for future filings.

 

ShareholderStockholder Communications

Company shareholdersstockholders who wish to communicate with the board of directors or an individual director may write to CUI Global,Orbital Energy Group, Inc., 20050 SW 112th Avenue, Tualatin, Oregon 97062, phone (832) 467-14201924 Aldine Western, Houston, Texas 77038 or to the attention of an individual director. Your letter should indicate that you are a shareholderstockholder and whether you own your shares in street name. Letters received will be retained until the next Board meeting when they will be available to the addressed director. Such communications may receive an initial evaluation to determine, based on the substance and nature of the communication, a suitable process for internal distribution, review and response or other appropriate treatment. There is no assurance that all communications will receive a response.

 

Certain Provisions of the Articles of Incorporation and Colorado Business Corporation Act Relating to Indemnification of Directors and Officers

The Colorado General Corporation Act, as revised, provides that if so provided in the articles of incorporation, the corporation shall eliminate or limit the personal liability of a director to the corporation or to its shareholdersstockholders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director; except that any such provision shall not eliminate or limit the liability of a director to the corporation or to its shareholdersstockholders for monetary damages for any breach of the director's duty of loyalty to the corporation or to its shareholders,stockholders, acts or omissions not in good faith or, which involve intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law, unlawful distributions, or any transaction from which the director directly or indirectly derived an improper personal benefit.

 

Our Articles of Incorporation and bylaws provide that a person who is performing his or her duties shall not have any liability by reason of being or having been a director of the corporation and that the Company shall indemnify and advance expenses to a director or officer in connection with a proceeding to the fullest extent permitted or required by and in accordance with the indemnification sections of Colorado statutes.

 

Insofar as indemnification for liabilities may be invoked to disclaim liability for damages arising under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Securities Act of 1934 (collectively, the ‘‘Acts’’), as amended, it is the position of the Securities and Exchange Commission that such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Acts and are therefore, unenforceable.

 

 

Reports to ShareholdersStockholders

We intend to voluntarily send Form 10-Ks to our shareholders,stockholders, which will include audited consolidated financial statements. We are a reporting company and file reports with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including this Form 10-K as well as quarterly reports under Form 10-Q. The public may read and copy any materials filed with the SEC at the SEC's Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549. Information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. The company files its reports electronically and the SEC maintains an Internet site that contains reports, proxy and information statements and other information filed by the company with the SEC electronically. The address of that site is www.sec.gov.

 

The company also maintains an Internet site, which contains information about the company, news releases, governance documents and summary financial data. The address of that site is www.CUIGlobal.com.www.OrbitalEnergyGroup.com.

 

Part IV

 

Item 15. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules

 

No schedules are included because the required information is inapplicable, not required or are presented in the financial

statements or the related notes thereto.

 

 

EXHIBITSEXHIBITS

 

The following exhibits are included as part of this Form 10-K.

 

Exhibit

No.

 

Description

2.1 1

 

Asset purchase agreement between and among CUI, Inc., CUI Global, Inc. and Back Porch International, Inc.

2.2 2

 

Asset purchase agreement between and among CUI, Inc., CUI Global, Inc. and Bel Fuse Inc.

2.3 3Agreement and Plan of Merger effectively changing the Company name to Orbital Energy Group, Inc., as filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Colorado.

3.11(i) 34

 

Amended Restated Articles of Incorporation that compile prior amendments into a single document.

3.11(ii) 3Articles of Amendment of Articles of Incorporation effectively changing the Company name to Orbital Energy Group, Inc. as filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Colorado.

3.12(ii)3.12(iii) 43

 

Amended and restated corporate bylaws that compile requirements for the nomination of persons for election to the Board of Directors and the proposal of other business to be considered by the corporation’s stockholders.Orbital Energy Group, Inc.

10.86 5

 

Asset Purchase Agreement dated February 23, 2015 to acquire the assets of Tectrol, Inc. and commercial lease attached as exhibits to our Form 8-K filed with the commission March 3, 2015.

10.87 86

 

Promissory note dated March 13, 2020 for $3,000,000 with Reach Construction Group.

10.88 86

 

Security agreement with Reach Construction group dated March 13, 2020.

10.90 86

 

Three-year lease for Sherman, Texas facility effective December 1, 2019.

10.91 86

 

Four-year lease for Irving, Texas facility effective January 1, 2020.

10.92 67

 

Five-year lease for Houston, Texas facility effective November 1, 2017.

10.936 7

 

Employment agreement with Paul D. White effective December 1, 2017.

10.944 8

 

10-year lease for Tualatin, OR facility effective December 21, 2018.

10.957 9

 

Employment agreement with William J. Clough effective May 14, 2019.

10.96 79

 

Employment agreement with Daniel N. Ford effective May 14, 2019.

10.97 1

 

Employment agreement with James F. O'Neil effective October 1, 2019.

10.98 86

 

Agreement dated January 1, 2020 between Orbital Gas Systems Limited and VE Technology Limited to acquire VE Technology designated intellectual property.

10.99 10Unsecured Paycheck Protection Program loan agreement sponsored by the Small Business Administration between CUI Global, Inc and Bank of America dated April 30, 2020.
10.100 10

Unsecured Paycheck Protection Program loan agreement sponsored by the Small Business Administration between Orbital Gas Systems, North America and Bank of America dated April 30, 2020.

10.101 10

Unsecured Paycheck Protection Program loan agreement sponsored by the Small Business Administration between Orbital Power, Inc. and Bank of America dated April 30, 2020.

10.102 10Unsecured Paycheck Protection Program loan agreement sponsored by the Small Business Administration between Reach Construction Group, LLC and Dogwood State Bank dated May 2, 2020.
10.103 11Securities Purchase Agreement with institutional investor for issuance of convertible securities dated November 13, 2020
10.104 12Registered Direct Offering for the sale and issuance by the Company of an aggregate of 5,555,556 common shares for gross proceeds of $10.0 million filed January 4, 2021.
10.105 13Placement Agency Agreement for the sale of shares at a price to the public of $1.80 per share.
10.106 14Registered Direct Offering for the sale and issuance of an aggregate of 10,000,000 common shares at an offering price of $3.50.
10.107 15Placement Agency Agreement for the sale of shares at a price to the public of $3.50 per share.
10.108 16Amended and restated Securities Purchase Agreement with institutional investor dated February 12, 2021.

10.109 17

Equity purchase agreement to purchase Reach Construction Group, LLC.
10.110 17

Subordinated promissory note - 18 month seller financed note for the purchase of Reach Construction Group, LLC.

10.110 17Subordinated promissory note - 3 year seller financed note for the purchase of Reach Construction Group, LLC.
10.111 18Note Purchase Agreement with institutional investor for issuance of note payable dated March 23, 2021
10.113 19Note purchase Agreement with institutional investor 

21.3 819

 

List of all subsidiaries, state of incorporation and name under which the subsidiary does business.

23.1 8

Consent of Perkins & Company, P.C.

23.2 819

 

Consent of Grant Thornton LLP

31.1 819

 

Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

31.2 819

 

Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

32.1 819

Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(b)/15d-14(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and 18 U.S.C. Section 1350.

32.2 19

 

Certification of Chief ExecutiveFinancial Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(b)/15d-14(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and 18 U.S.C. Section 1350.

32.2 1018 19

 

Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(b)/15d-14(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and 18 U.S.C. Section 1350.

101 8

Inline XBRL-Related Documents.

101.INS819

 

Inline XBRL Instance Document.

101.SCH819

 

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

101.CAL8 19

 

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

101.DEF819

 

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

101.LAB819

 

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

101.PRE819

 

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

104 19

Cover Page Interactive Data File (embedded within the Inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101)

104    Cover Page Interactive Data File (embedded within the Inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101)

 

Footnotes to Exhibits:

 

1.

Incorporated by reference to our Report on Form 8-K filed with the Commission on October 2, 2019.

2.

Incorporated by reference to our Report on Form 8-K filed with the Commission on October 2,November 14, 2019.

2.3.

Incorporated by reference to our Report on Form 8-K filed with the Commission on November 14, 2019.May 8, 2020.

3.

4.

Incorporated by reference to our Proxy Statement and Notice of 2013 Annual ShareholderStockholder Meeting filed with the Commission September 17, 2013.

4.5.

Incorporated by reference to our Report on Form 8-K filed with the Commission on March 3, 2015 and Form 8-K/A filed with the Commission on May 13, 2015.

6.Incorporated by reference to our Report on Form 10-K filed with the Commission on March 30, 2020.

7.

Incorporated by reference to our Report on Form 10-K filed with the Commission on March 14, 2018.

8.Incorporated by reference to our Report on Form 10-K filed with the Commission on March 18, 2019.

5.9.

Incorporated by reference to our Report on Form 10-Q filed with the Commission on May 15, 2019.

10.Incorporated by reference to our Report on Form 10-Q filed with the Commission on May 20, 2020.
11.Incorporated by reference to our Report on Form 8-K filed with the Commission on November 18, 2020.
12.Incorporated by reference to our Report on Form 424B5 Prospectus supplement filed with the Commission on January 4, 2021.
13.Incorporated by reference to our Report on Form 8-K filed with the Commission on January 4, 2021.
14.Incorporated by reference to our Report on Form 424B5 Prospectus supplement filed with the Commission on January 15, 2021.
15.Incorporated by reference to our Report on Form 8-K filed with the Commission on January 15, 2021.
16.Incorporated by reference to our Report on Form 8-K filed with the Commission on February 16, 2021.
17.Incorporated by reference to our Report on Form 8-K filed with the Commission on April 6, 2020.
18.Incorporated by reference to our Report on Form 8-K filed with the Commission on March 3, 2015 and Form 8-K/A filed with the Commission on May 13, 2015.

26, 2021.

6.

Incorporated by reference to our Report on Form 10-K filed with the Commission on March 14, 2018.

7.

Incorporated by reference to our Report on Form 10-Q filed with the Commission on May 15, 2019.

8.19.

Filed herewith.

 

Item 16. Form 10-K Summary

 

None.

 

SignaturesSignatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

CUI Global,Orbital Energy Group, Inc.

 

 

Signature

 

Title

 

Date

      

By

/s/ James F. O'Neil

 

CEO/Principal Executive

 

March 30, 2020

31, 2022
 

James F. O'Neil

 

Officer/Director

  
      

By

/s/ Daniel N. FordNicholas M. Grindstaff

 

CFO/ Principal Financial

 

March 30, 2020

31, 2022
 

Daniel N. FordNicholas M. Grindstaff

 

and Accounting Officer

  

 

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities on the dates indicated.

 

Signature

 

Title

 

Date

      

By

/s/ James F. O'Neil

 

CEO/Principal Executive

 

March 30, 2020

31, 2022
 

James F. O'Neil

 

Officer/Director

  
      

By

/s/ William J. Clough

 

Executive Chairman/Chief Legal

 

March 30, 2020

31, 2022
 

William J. Clough

 

Counsel/Director

  
      

By

/s/ Daniel N. FordNicholas M. Grindstaff

 

CFO/ Principal Financial

 

March 30, 2020

31, 2022
 

Daniel N. Ford

 

and Accounting Officer

  
      

By

/s/ Paul Addison, Director

Director

March 31, 2022
Paul Addison

By

/s/ C. Stephen Cochennet

 

Director

 

March 30, 2020

31 2022
 

C. Stephen Cochennet

    
      

By

/s/ Corey A. Lambrecht

 

Director

 

March 30, 2020

31, 2022
 

Corey A. Lambrecht

    
      

By

/s/ Sean P. RooneyJerry Sue Thornton 

 

Director

 

March 30, 2020

31, 2022
 

Sean P. RooneyJerry Sue Thornton

    
      

By

/s/ Sarah Tucker

 

Director

 

March 30, 2020

31, 2022
 

Sarah Tucker

    
      
By/s/ Paul D. White

Director

March 31, 2022
Paul D. White

By

/s/ Paul D. WhiteLa Forrest Williams

 

Director

 

March 30, 202031, 2022

 

Paul D. WhiteLa Forrest Williams

   

 

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