UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C., 20549
FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)

[X]

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

For the quarterly period ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018

OR

[  ]

TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIESEXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from ___________ to __________

Commission
File
Number


Commission
File
Number
_______________

Exact Name of
Registrant
as Specified
in its Charter
_______________


State or Other
Jurisdiction of
Incorporation
______________


IRS Employer
Identification
Number
___________

1-12609

PG&E Corporation

California94-3234914

1-12609

1-2348

PG&E Corporation

California

94-3234914

1-2348

Pacific Gas and Electric Company

California

94-0742640

PG&E Corporation
77 Beale Street
P.O. Box 770000
San Francisco, California 94177

Pacific Gas and Electric Company
77 Beale Street
P.O. Box 770000
San Francisco, California 94177

Address of principal executive offices, including zip code

PG&E Corporation
(415) 973-1000

Pacific Gas and Electric Company
(415) 973-7000

Registrant's telephone number, including area code

Indicate by check mark whethertheregistrant (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) hasbeen subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. 

PG&E Corporation:

[X] Yes [  ] No

Pacific Gas and Electric Company:

[X] Yes [  ] No

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).

PG&E Corporation:

[X] Yes [  ] No

Pacific Gas and Electric Company:

[X] Yes [  ] No

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, smaller reporting company, oran emerging growth company.  See the definitions of “large accelerated filer”, “accelerated filer”, “smaller reporting company”, and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

PG&E Corporation:

[X] Large accelerated filer

[  ] Accelerated filer

[  ] Non-accelerated filer  (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)

[  ] Smaller reporting company

[  ] Emerging growth company

Pacific Gas and Electric Company:

[  ] Large accelerated filer

[  ] Accelerated filer

[X] Non-accelerated filer (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)

[  ] 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.

PG&E Corporation:

[  ]

PacificGas and Electric Company:

[  ]

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

PG&E Corporation:

[  ] Yes [X] No


Pacific Gas and Electric Company:

[  ] Yes [X] No

Indicate the numberof shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.

Common stock outstanding as of October 24, 2017:

July 20, 2018:

PG&E Corporation:

514,422,806

517,151,337

PacificGas and Electric Company:

264,374,809




2



PG&E CORPORATION AND

PACIFIC GAS AND ELECTRIC COMPANY
FORM10-Q

FOR THE QUARTERLY PERIOD ENDED SEPTEMBERJUNE 30, 2017

2018


TABLEOF CONTENTS

GLOSSARY

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

PG&E CORPORATION

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

PACIFIC GAS AND ELECTRIC COMPANY

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

NOTES TO THE CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)

NOTE 1: ORGANIZATION AND BASIS OF PRESENTATION

NOTE 2: SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

NOTE 3: REGULATORY ASSETS, LIABILITIES, AND BALANCING ACCOUNTS

NOTE 4: DEBT

NOTE 5: EQUITY

NOTE 6: EARNINGS PER SHARE

NOTE 7: DERIVATIVES

NOTE 8: FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

NOTE 9: CONTINGENCIES AND COMMITMENTS

NOTE 10: SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

OVERVIEW

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

LIQUIDITY AND FINANCIAL RESOURCES

ENFORCEMENT AND LITIGATION MATTERS

REGULATORY MATTERS

FEDERAL INITIATIVES

ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS

CONTRACTUAL COMMITMENTS

RISK MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

ACCOUNTING STANDARDS ISSUED BUT NOT YET ADOPTED

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS

ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 6. EXHIBITS

SIGNATURES


3



GLOSSARY


GLOSSARY

The following terms and abbreviations appearing in the text of this report have the meanings indicated below.

2016

2017 Form 10-K

PG&E Corporation and Pacific Gas and Electric Company's combined Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016

2017

AFUDC

ARO

allowance for funds used during construction

ALJ

administrative law judge

ARO

asset retirement obligation

ASU

accounting standard update issued by the FASB (see below)

CAISO

California Independent System Operator

Cal Fire

California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection

CARB

CCA

California Air Resources Board

CCA

Community Choice Aggregator

CEC

California Energy Resources Conservation and Development Commission

CO2

CEMA

carbon dioxide

CEMA

Catastrophic Event Memorandum Account

CP

CPUC

cathodic protection

CPUC

California Public Utilities Commission

CRRs

congestion revenue rights

DER

distributed energy resources

DIDF

Distribution Investment Deferral Framework

Diablo Canyon

Diablo Canyon nuclear power plant

DOGGR

Division of Oil, Gas, and Geothermal Resources

of the California Department of Conservation

DOI

DTSC

U.S. Department of the Interior

DRP

electric distribution resources plan

DTSC

Department of Toxic Substances Control

EDA

EPS

equity distribution agreement

EPS

earnings per common share

EV

electric vehicle

FASB

Financial Accounting Standards Board

FERC

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission

GAAP

U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles

GHG

greenhouse gas

GRC

general rate case

GT&S

gas transmission and storage

IOU(s)

HSM

investor-owned utility(ies)

hazardous substance memorandum account

IRS

IOU(s)

Internal Revenue Service

investor-owned utility(ies)

MD&A

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations set forth in Item 2 of this Form 10-Q

NAV

MGP(s)

manufactured gas plants

NAVnet asset value

NDCTP

Nuclear Decommissioning Cost Triennial Proceedings

NEIL

Nuclear Electric Insurance Limited

NERC

NRC

North American Electric Reliability Corporation

NRC

Nuclear Regulatory Commission

OES

State of California Office of Emergency Services

OII

order instituting investigation

OIR

order instituting rulemaking

ORA

Office of Ratepayer Advocates

PCIA

Power Charge Indifference Adjustment

PD

PFM

proposed decision

PFM

petition for modification

PHMSA

RAMP

Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration

Risk Assessment Mitigation Phase


ROE

return on equity

SEC

SB

Senate Bill

SECU.S. Securities and Exchange Commission

SED

Safety and Enforcement Division of the CPUC

TE

Tax Act

transportation electrification

Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017


TO

transmission owner

TURN

TE

transportation electrification

TOtransmission owner
TURNThe Utility Reform Network

Utility

Pacific Gas and Electric Company

VIE(s)

variable interest entity(ies)

WEMA

Wildfire Expense Memorandum Account

Westinghouse

Westinghouse Electric Company, LLC


5



PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


PG&E CORPORATION

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

 

(Unaudited)

 

Three Months Ended

 

Nine Months Ended

 

September 30,

 

September 30,

(in millions, except per share amounts)

2017

 

2016

 

2017

 

2016

Operating Revenues

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Electric

$

3,648 

 

$

3,994 

 

$

10,036 

 

$

10,590 

Natural gas

 

869 

 

 

816 

 

 

2,999 

 

 

2,363 

Total operating revenues

 

4,517 

 

 

4,810 

 

 

13,035 

 

 

12,953 

Operating Expenses

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cost of electricity

 

1,466 

 

 

1,613 

 

 

3,436 

 

 

3,719 

Cost of natural gas

 

78 

 

 

80 

 

 

524 

 

 

377 

Operating and maintenance

 

1,364 

 

 

1,783 

 

 

4,414 

 

 

5,631 

Depreciation, amortization, and decommissioning

 

710 

 

 

694 

 

 

2,134 

 

 

2,090 

Total operating expenses

 

3,618 

 

 

4,170 

 

 

10,508 

 

 

11,817 

Operating Income

 

899 

 

 

640 

 

 

2,527 

 

 

1,136 

Interest income

 

9 

 

 

8 

 

 

22 

 

 

17 

Interest expense

 

(220)

 

 

(211)

 

 

(663)

 

 

(621)

Other income, net

 

25 

 

 

24 

 

 

59 

 

 

74 

Income Before Income Taxes

 

713 

 

 

461 

 

 

1,945 

 

 

606 

Income tax provision (benefit)

 

160 

 

 

70 

 

 

403 

 

 

(105)

Net Income

 

553 

 

 

391 

 

 

1,542 

 

 

711 

Preferred stock dividend requirement of subsidiary

 

3 

 

 

3 

 

 

10 

 

 

10 

Income Available for Common Shareholders

$

550 

 

$

388 

 

$

1,532 

 

$

701 

Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding, Basic

 

513 

 

 

501 

 

 

511 

 

 

497 

Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding, Diluted

 

516 

 

 

503 

 

 

514 

 

 

500 

Net Earnings Per Common Share, Basic

$

1.07 

 

$

0.77 

 

$

3.00 

 

$

1.41 

Net Earnings Per Common Share, Diluted

$

1.07 

 

$

0.77 

 

$

2.98 

 

$

1.40 

Dividends Declared Per Common Share

$

0.53 

 

$

0.49 

 

$

1.55 

 

$

1.44 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

See accompanying Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.


6



 (Unaudited)
 Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended
June 30,
(in millions, except per share amounts)2018 2017 2018 2017
Operating Revenues       
Electric$3,312
 $3,323
 $6,263
 $6,388
Natural gas922
 927
 2,027
 2,130
Total operating revenues4,234
 4,250
 8,290
 8,518
Operating Expenses       
Cost of electricity963
 1,123
 1,782
 1,970
Cost of natural gas79
 121
 368
 446
Operating and maintenance1,786
 1,605
 3,390
 3,129
Wildfire-related claims, net of insurance recoveries2,125
 (46) 2,118
 (53)
Depreciation, amortization, and decommissioning746
 712
 1,498
 1,424
Total operating expenses5,699
 3,515
 9,156
 6,916
Operating Income (Loss)(1,465) 735
 (866) 1,602
Interest income12
 8
 21
 13
Interest expense(226) (225) (446) (443)
Other income, net106
 26
 214
 60
Income (Loss) Before Income Taxes(1,573) 544
 (1,077) 1,232
Income tax provision (benefit)(593) 134
 (542) 243
Net Income (Loss)(980) 410
 (535) 989
Preferred stock dividend requirement of subsidiary4
 4
 7
 7
Income (Loss) Available for Common Shareholders$(984) $406
 $(542) $982
Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding, Basic516
 511
 516
 510
Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding, Diluted516
 513
 517
 512
Net Earnings (Loss) Per Common Share, Basic$(1.91) $0.79
 $(1.05) $1.93
Net Earnings (Loss) Per Common Share, Diluted$(1.91) $0.79
 $(1.05) $1.92
Dividends Declared Per Common Share$
 $0.53
 $
 $1.02
        
See accompanying Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.




PG&E CORPORATION

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

 

(Unaudited)

 

Three Months Ended

 

Nine Months Ended

 

September 30,

 

September 30,

(in millions)

2017

 

2016

 

2017

 

2016

Net Income

$

553 

 

$

391 

 

$

1,542 

 

$

711 

Other Comprehensive Income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pension and other postretirement benefit plans obligations

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(net of taxes of $0, $0, $0 and $0, at respective dates)

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

1 

 

 

- 

Total other comprehensive income (loss)

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

1 

 

 

- 

Comprehensive Income

 

553 

 

 

391 

 

 

1,543 

 

 

711 

Preferred stock dividend requirement of subsidiary

 

3 

 

 

3 

 

 

10 

 

 

10 

Comprehensive Income Attributable to

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common Shareholders

$

550 

 

$

388 

 

$

1,533 

 

$

701 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

See accompanying Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

 (Unaudited)
 Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended
June 30,
(in millions)2018 2017 2018 2017
Net Income (Loss)$(980) $410
 $(535) $989
Other Comprehensive Income       
Pension and other post-retirement benefit plans obligations (net of taxes of $0, $0, $0, and $0, at respective dates)
 1
 
 1
Total other comprehensive income (loss)
 1
 
 1
Comprehensive Income (Loss)(980) 411
 (535) 990
Preferred stock dividend requirement of subsidiary4
 4
 7
 7
Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to
Common Shareholders
$(984) $407
 $(542) $983
        
See accompanying Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.


7




PG&E CORPORATION

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

 

(Unaudited)

 

Balance At

 

September 30,

 

December 31,

(in millions)

2017

 

2016

ASSETS

 

 

 

 

 

Current Assets

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

$

191 

 

$

177 

Restricted cash

 

7 

 

 

7 

Accounts receivable:

 

 

 

 

 

Customers (net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $58

 

 

 

 

 

at both periods)

 

1,368 

 

 

1,252 

Accrued unbilled revenue

 

972 

 

 

1,098 

Regulatory balancing accounts

 

1,478 

 

 

1,500 

Other

 

992 

 

 

801 

Regulatory assets

 

573 

 

 

423 

Inventories:

 

 

 

 

 

Gas stored underground and fuel oil

 

138 

 

 

117 

Materials and supplies

 

360 

 

 

346 

Income taxes receivable

 

25 

 

 

160 

Other

 

279 

 

 

283 

Total current assets

 

6,383 

 

 

6,164 

Property, Plant, and Equipment

 

 

 

 

 

Electric

 

54,148 

 

 

52,556 

Gas

 

18,938 

 

 

17,853 

Construction work in progress

 

2,421 

 

 

2,184 

Other

 

2 

 

 

2 

Total property, plant, and equipment

 

75,509 

 

 

72,595 

Accumulated depreciation

 

(22,986)

 

 

(22,014)

Net property, plant, and equipment

 

52,523 

 

 

50,581 

Other Noncurrent Assets

 

 

 

 

 

Regulatory assets

 

8,546 

 

 

7,951 

Nuclear decommissioning trusts

 

2,793 

 

 

2,606 

Income taxes receivable

 

52 

 

 

70 

Other

 

1,229 

 

 

1,226 

Total other noncurrent assets

 

12,620 

 

 

11,853 

TOTAL ASSETS

$

71,526 

 

$

68,598 

 

 

 

 

 

 

See accompanying Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

 (Unaudited)
 Balance At
(in millions)June 30,
2018
 December 31,
2017
ASSETS 
  
Current Assets 
  
Cash and cash equivalents$517
 $449
Accounts receivable:   
Customers (net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $58 and $64
at respective dates)
1,169
 1,243
Accrued unbilled revenue995
 946
Regulatory balancing accounts1,563
 1,222
Other1,027
 861
Regulatory assets194
 615
Inventories:   
Gas stored underground and fuel oil107
 115
Materials and supplies380
 366
Other415
 464
Total current assets6,367
 6,281
Property, Plant, and Equipment   
Electric56,410
 55,133
Gas20,387
 19,641
Construction work in progress2,643
 2,471
Other2
 3
Total property, plant, and equipment79,442
 77,248
Accumulated depreciation(24,288) (23,459)
Net property, plant, and equipment55,154
 53,789
Other Noncurrent Assets   
Regulatory assets4,121
 3,793
Nuclear decommissioning trusts2,828
 2,863
Income taxes receivable66
 65
Other1,353
 1,221
Total other noncurrent assets8,368
 7,942
TOTAL ASSETS$69,889
 $68,012
    
See accompanying Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

8



PG&E CORPORATION

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

 

 

(Unaudited)

 

Balance At

 

September 30,

 

December 31,

(in millions, except share amounts)

2017

 

2016

LIABILITIES AND EQUITY

 

 

 

 

 

Current Liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

Short-term borrowings

$

869 

 

$

1,516 

Long-term debt, classified as current

 

700 

 

 

700 

Accounts payable:

 

 

 

 

 

Trade creditors

 

1,419 

 

 

1,495 

Regulatory balancing accounts

 

1,328 

 

 

645 

Other

 

483 

 

 

433 

Disputed claims and customer refunds

 

240 

 

 

236 

Interest payable

 

163 

 

 

216 

Other

 

2,271 

 

 

2,323 

Total current liabilities

 

7,473 

 

 

7,564 

Noncurrent Liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

Long-term debt

 

16,619 

 

 

16,220 

Regulatory liabilities

 

7,265 

 

 

6,805 

Pension and other postretirement benefits

 

2,707 

 

 

2,641 

Asset retirement obligations

 

4,758 

 

 

4,684 

Deferred income taxes

 

11,085 

 

 

10,213 

Other

 

2,333 

 

 

2,279 

Total noncurrent liabilities

 

44,767 

 

 

42,842 

Commitments and Contingencies (Note 9)

 

 

 

 

 

Equity

 

 

 

 

 

Shareholders' Equity

 

 

 

 

 

Common stock, no par value, authorized 800,000,000 shares;

 

 

 

 

 

513,773,072 and 506,891,874 shares outstanding at respective dates

 

12,560 

 

 

12,198 

Reinvested earnings

 

6,482 

 

 

5,751 

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

 

(8)

 

 

(9)

Total shareholders' equity

 

19,034 

 

 

17,940 

Noncontrolling Interest - Preferred Stock of Subsidiary

 

252 

 

 

252 

Total equity

 

19,286 

 

 

18,192 

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY

$

71,526 

 

$

68,598 

 

 

 

 

 

 

See accompanying Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

 
 
(Unaudited)
 Balance At
(in millions, except share amounts)June 30,
2018
 December 31,
2017
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY 
  
Current Liabilities
 
  
Short-term borrowings$1,450
 $931
Long-term debt, classified as current193
 445
Accounts payable:   
Trade creditors1,477
 1,646
Regulatory balancing accounts1,303
 1,120
Other541
 517
Disputed claims and customer refunds215
 243
Interest payable209
 217
Wildfire-related claims2,860
 561
Other1,538
 1,449
Total current liabilities9,786
 7,129
Noncurrent Liabilities   
Long-term debt17,612
 17,753
Regulatory liabilities8,498
 8,679
Pension and other post-retirement benefits2,054
 2,128
Asset retirement obligations4,964
 4,899
Deferred income taxes5,667
 5,822
Other2,247
 2,130
Total noncurrent liabilities41,042
 41,411
Contingencies and Commitments (Note 9)

 

Equity   
Shareholders' Equity   
Common stock, no par value, authorized 800,000,000 shares;
517,102,983 and 514,755,845 shares outstanding at respective dates
12,765
 12,632
Reinvested earnings6,057
 6,596
Accumulated other comprehensive loss(13) (8)
Total shareholders' equity
18,809
 19,220
Noncontrolling Interest - Preferred Stock of Subsidiary252
 252
Total equity19,061
 19,472
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY$69,889
 $68,012
    
See accompanying Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

9




PG&E CORPORATION

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

 

(Unaudited)

 

Nine Months Ended September 30,

(in millions)

2017

 

2016

Cash Flows from Operating Activities

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

$

1,542 

 

$

711 

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by

 

 

 

 

 

operating activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation, amortization, and decommissioning

 

2,134 

��

 

2,090 

Allowance for equity funds used during construction

 

(63)

 

 

(84)

Deferred income taxes and tax credits, net

 

848 

 

 

644 

Disallowed capital expenditures

 

47 

 

 

517 

Other

 

204 

 

 

293 

Effect of changes in operating assets and liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

     Accounts receivable

 

(58)

 

 

(283)

     Butte-related insurance receivable

 

(166)

 

 

(263)

     Inventories

 

(35)

 

 

(38)

     Accounts payable

 

76 

 

 

189 

     Butte-related third-party claims

 

12 

 

 

321 

     Income taxes receivable/payable

 

135 

 

 

(63)

     Other current assets and liabilities

 

23 

 

 

(32)

     Regulatory assets, liabilities, and balancing accounts, net

 

(30)

 

 

(634)

Other noncurrent assets and liabilities

 

68 

 

 

(85)

Net cash provided by operating activities

 

4,737 

 

 

3,283 

Cash Flows from Investing Activities

 

 

 

 

 

Capital expenditures

 

(3,938)

 

 

(4,128)

Decrease in restricted cash

 

- 

 

 

66 

Proceeds from sales and maturities of nuclear decommissioning

 

 

 

 

 

trust investments

 

1,043 

 

 

1,019 

Purchases of nuclear decommissioning trust investments

 

(1,071)

 

 

(1,050)

Other

 

16 

 

 

10 

Net cash used in investing activities

 

(3,950)

 

 

(4,083)

Cash Flows from Financing Activities

 

 

 

 

 

Net issuances (repayments) of commercial paper, net of discount of

 

 

 

 

 

     $4 and $5 at respective dates

 

(652)

 

 

(128)

Short-term debt financing

 

250 

 

 

250 

Short-term debt matured

 

(250)

 

 

- 

Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt, net of discount and

 

 

 

 

 

     issuance costs of $11 and $6 at respective dates

 

734 

 

 

594 

Long-term debt matured or repurchased

 

(345)

 

 

- 

Common stock issued

 

345 

 

 

727 

Common stock dividends paid

 

(754)

 

 

(678)

Other

 

(101)

 

 

(17)

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

 

(773)

 

 

748 

Net change in cash and cash equivalents

 

14 

 

 

(52)

Cash and cash equivalents at January 1

 

177 

 

 

123 

Cash and cash equivalents at September 30

$

191 

 

$

71 

10



Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information

 

 

 

 

 

Cash received (paid) for:

 

 

 

 

 

Interest, net of amounts capitalized

$

(644)

 

$

(611)

Income taxes, net

 

158 

 

 

154 

Supplemental disclosures of noncash investing and financing activities

 

 

 

 

 

Common stock dividends declared but not yet paid

$

272 

 

$

248 

Capital expenditures financed through accounts payable

 

301 

 

 

325 

Noncash common stock issuances

 

16 

 

 

15 

 

 

 

 

 

 

See accompanying Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.


11

 (Unaudited)
 Six Months Ended June 30,
(in millions)2018 2017
Cash Flows from Operating Activities   
Net income (loss)$(535) $989
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:   
Depreciation, amortization, and decommissioning1,498
 1,424
Allowance for equity funds used during construction(63) (34)
Deferred income taxes and tax credits, net(145) 516
Disallowed capital expenditures

47
Other104
 121
Effect of changes in operating assets and liabilities:   
Accounts receivable(11) 111
Wildfire-related insurance receivable(144) 54
Inventories(6) (38)
Accounts payable39
 19
Wildfire-related claims2,299
 (116)
Income taxes receivable/payable

67
Other current assets and liabilities(103) (92)
Regulatory assets, liabilities, and balancing accounts, net(12) (353)
Other noncurrent assets and liabilities(168) 41
Net cash provided by operating activities2,753
 2,756
Cash Flows from Investing Activities 
  
Capital expenditures(2,897) (2,474)
Proceeds from sales and maturities of nuclear decommissioning trust investments802
 794
Purchases of nuclear decommissioning trust investments(815) (817)
Other15
 8
Net cash used in investing activities
(2,895) (2,489)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities 
  
Borrowings under revolving credit facilities700


Net issuances (repayments) of commercial paper, net of discount of $1 and $3 at respective dates(182) (339)
Short-term debt financing250
 250
Short-term debt matured(250) (250)
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt, net of discount and issuance costs of $0 and $11 at respective dates350
 734
Long-term debt matured or repurchased(750) (345)
Common stock issued82
 247
Common stock dividends paid
 (488)
Other10
 (75)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities210
 (266)
Net change in cash and cash equivalents68
 1
Cash and cash equivalents at January 1449
 177
Cash and cash equivalents at June 30$517
 $178


Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information 
  
Cash received (paid) for: 
  
Interest, net of amounts capitalized$(394) $(395)
Income taxes, net
 68
Supplemental disclosures of noncash investing and financing activities
   
Common stock dividends declared but not yet paid$
 $271
Capital expenditures financed through accounts payable317
 268
Noncash common stock issuances
 10
Terminated capital leases137
 
    
See accompanying Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.




PACIFIC GAS AND ELECTRIC COMPANY

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

 

(Unaudited)

 

Three Months Ended

 

Nine Months Ended

 

September 30,

 

September 30,

(in millions)

2017

 

2016

 

2017

 

2016

Operating Revenues

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Electric

$

3,647 

 

$

3,993 

 

$

10,038 

 

$

10,590 

Natural gas

 

869 

 

 

816 

 

 

2,999 

 

 

2,363 

Total operating revenues

 

4,516 

 

 

4,809 

 

 

13,037 

 

 

12,953 

Operating Expenses

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cost of electricity

 

1,466 

 

 

1,613 

 

 

3,436 

 

 

3,719 

Cost of natural gas

 

78 

 

 

80 

 

 

524 

 

 

377 

Operating and maintenance

 

1,428 

 

 

1,782 

 

 

4,477 

 

 

5,630 

Depreciation, amortization, and decommissioning

 

710 

 

 

694 

 

 

2,134 

 

 

2,090 

Total operating expenses

 

3,682 

 

 

4,169 

 

 

10,571 

 

 

11,816 

Operating Income

 

834 

 

 

640 

 

 

2,466 

 

 

1,137 

Interest income

 

10 

 

 

8 

 

 

22 

 

 

16 

Interest expense

 

(217)

 

 

(209)

 

 

(655)

 

 

(614)

Other income, net

 

24 

 

 

23 

 

 

52 

 

 

68 

Income Before Income Taxes

 

651 

 

 

462 

 

 

1,885 

 

 

607 

Income tax provision (benefit)

 

138 

 

 

73 

 

 

394 

 

 

(99)

Net Income

 

513 

 

 

389 

 

 

1,491 

 

 

706 

Preferred stock dividend requirement

 

3 

 

 

3 

 

 

10 

 

 

10 

Income Available for Common Stock

$

510 

 

$

386 

 

$

1,481 

 

$

696 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

See accompanying Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.


12

 (Unaudited)
 Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended
June 30,
(in millions)2018 2017 2018 2017
Operating Revenues 
  
    
Electric$3,312
 $3,324
 $6,263
 $6,391
Natural gas922
 926
 2,027
 2,130
Total operating revenues4,234
 4,250
 8,290
 8,521
Operating Expenses       
Cost of electricity963
 1,123
 1,782
 1,970
Cost of natural gas79
 121
 368
 446
Operating and maintenance1,786
 1,604
 3,390
 3,129
Wildfire-related claims, net of insurance recoveries2,125
 (46) 2,118
 (53)
Depreciation, amortization, and decommissioning746
 712
 1,498
 1,424
Total operating expenses5,699
 3,514
 9,156
 6,916
Operating Income (Loss)(1,465) 736
 (866) 1,605
Interest income11
 7
 20
 12
Interest expense(222) (222) (439) (438)
Other income, net108
 24
 217
 55
Income (Loss) Before Income Taxes(1,568) 545
 (1,068) 1,234
Income tax provision (benefit)(592) 136
 (544) 256
Net Income (Loss)(976) 409
 (524) 978
Preferred stock dividend requirement4
 4
 7
 7
Income (Loss) Available for Common Stock$(980) $405
 $(531) $971
        
See accompanying Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.



PACIFIC GAS AND ELECTRIC COMPANY

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OFOF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

 

 

(Unaudited)

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

  

Nine Months Ended

 

 

 

September 30,

  

September 30,

 

(in millions)

 

2017

  

2016

  

2017

  

2016

 

Net Income

 

$

513

  

$

389

  

$

1,491

  

$

706

 

Other Comprehensive Income

                

Pension and other postretirement benefit plans obligations

                

(net of taxes of $0, $0, $0 and $0, at respective dates )

  

-

   

-

   

1

   

1

 

Total other comprehensive income (loss)

  

-

   

-

   

1

   

1

 

Comprehensive Income

 

$

513

  

$

389

  

$

1,492

  

$

707

 

 

                

See accompanying Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

 
                

 (Unaudited)
 Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended
June 30,
(in millions)2018 2017 2018 2017
Net Income (Loss)$(976) $409
 $(524) $978
Other Comprehensive Income       
Pension and other post-retirement benefit plans obligations (net of taxes of $0, $0, $0, and $0, at respective dates )1
 
 1
 1
Total other comprehensive income (loss)1
 
 1
 1
Comprehensive Income (Loss)$(975) $409
 $(523) $979
        
See accompanying Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

13



PACIFIC GAS AND ELECTRIC COMPANY

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

 

(Unaudited)

 

Balance At

 

September 30,

 

December 31,

(in millions)

2017

 

2016

ASSETS

 

 

 

 

 

Current Assets

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

$

70 

 

$

71 

Restricted cash

 

7 

 

 

7 

Accounts receivable:

 

 

 

 

 

Customers (net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $58

 

 

 

 

 

  at both periods)

 

1,368 

 

 

1,252 

Accrued unbilled revenue

 

972 

 

 

1,098 

Regulatory balancing accounts

 

1,478 

 

 

1,500 

Other

 

992 

 

 

801 

Regulatory assets

 

573 

 

 

423 

Inventories:

 

 

 

 

 

Gas stored underground and fuel oil

 

138 

 

 

117 

Materials and supplies

 

360 

 

 

346 

Income taxes receivable

 

24 

 

 

159 

Other

 

279 

 

 

282 

Total current assets

 

6,261 

 

 

6,056 

Property, Plant, and Equipment

 

 

 

 

 

Electric

 

54,148 

 

 

52,556 

Gas

 

18,938 

 

 

17,853 

Construction work in progress

 

2,421 

 

 

2,184 

Total property, plant, and equipment

 

75,507 

 

 

72,593 

Accumulated depreciation

 

(22,984)

 

 

(22,012)

Net property, plant, and equipment

 

52,523 

 

 

50,581 

Other Noncurrent Assets

 

 

 

 

 

Regulatory assets

 

8,546 

 

 

7,951 

Nuclear decommissioning trusts

 

2,793 

 

 

2,606 

Income taxes receivable

 

52 

 

 

70 

Other

 

1,104 

 

 

1,110 

Total other noncurrent assets

 

12,495 

 

 

11,737 

TOTAL ASSETS

$

71,279 

 

$

68,374 

 

 

 

 

 

 

See accompanying Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

 (Unaudited)
 Balance At
 June 30,
2018
 December 31, 2017
(in millions) 
ASSETS 
  
Current Assets 
  
Cash and cash equivalents$484
 $447
Accounts receivable:   
Customers (net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $58 and $64
at respective dates)
1,169
 1,243
Accrued unbilled revenue995
 946
Regulatory balancing accounts1,563
 1,222
Other1,028
 862
Regulatory assets194
 615
Inventories:   
Gas stored underground and fuel oil107
 115
Materials and supplies380
 366
Other414
 465
Total current assets6,334
 6,281
Property, Plant, and Equipment   
Electric56,410
 55,133
Gas20,387
 19,641
Construction work in progress2,643
 2,471
Total property, plant, and equipment79,440
 77,245
Accumulated depreciation(24,285) (23,456)
Net property, plant, and equipment55,155
 53,789
Other Noncurrent Assets   
Regulatory assets4,121
 3,793
Nuclear decommissioning trusts2,828
 2,863
Income taxes receivable64
 64
Other1,226
 1,094
Total other noncurrent assets8,239
 7,814
TOTAL ASSETS$69,728
 $67,884
    
See accompanying Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.



PACIFIC GAS AND ELECTRIC COMPANY

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

 

(Unaudited)

 

Balance At

 

September 30,

 

December 31,

(in millions, except share amounts)

2017

 

2016

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

 

 

 

 

 

Current Liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

Short-term borrowings

$

869 

 

$

1,516 

Long-term debt, classified as current

 

700 

 

 

700 

Accounts payable:

 

 

 

 

 

Trade creditors

 

1,419 

 

 

1,494 

Regulatory balancing accounts

 

1,328 

 

 

645 

Other

 

502 

 

 

453 

Disputed claims and customer refunds

 

240 

 

 

236 

Interest payable

 

163 

 

 

214 

Other

 

1,999 

 

 

2,072 

Total current liabilities

 

7,220 

 

 

7,330 

Noncurrent Liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

Long-term debt

 

16,270 

 

 

15,872 

Regulatory liabilities

 

7,265 

 

 

6,805 

Pension and other postretirement benefits

 

2,612 

 

 

2,548 

Asset retirement obligations

 

4,758 

 

 

4,684 

Deferred income taxes

 

11,377 

 

 

10,510 

Other

 

2,279 

 

 

2,230 

Total noncurrent liabilities

 

44,561 

 

 

42,649 

Commitments and Contingencies (Note 9)

 

 

 

 

 

Shareholders' Equity

 

 

 

 

 

Preferred stock

 

258 

 

 

258 

Common stock, $5 par value, authorized 800,000,000 shares;

 

 

 

 

 

264,374,809 shares outstanding at respective dates

 

1,322 

 

 

1,322 

Additional paid-in capital

 

8,455 

 

 

8,050 

Reinvested earnings

 

9,460 

 

 

8,763 

Accumulated other comprehensive income

 

3 

 

 

2 

Total shareholders' equity

 

19,498 

 

 

18,395 

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

$

71,279 

 

$

68,374 

 

 

 

 

 

 

See accompanying Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

 (Unaudited)
 Balance At
 June 30,
2018
 December 31, 2017
(in millions. except share amounts) 
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY   
Current Liabilities 
  
Short-term borrowings$1,400
 $799
Long-term debt, classified as current193
 445
Accounts payable:   
Trade creditors1,477
 1,644
Regulatory balancing accounts1,303
 1,120
Other561
 538
Disputed claims and customer refunds215
 243
Interest payable208
 214
Wildfire-related claims2,860
 561
Other1,551
 1,457
Total current liabilities9,768
 7,021
Noncurrent Liabilities   
Long-term debt17,262
 17,403
Regulatory liabilities8,498
 8,679
Pension and other post-retirement benefits1,950
 2,026
Asset retirement obligations4,964
 4,899
Deferred income taxes5,806
 5,963
Other2,263
 2,146
Total noncurrent liabilities40,743
 41,116
Contingencies and Commitments (Note 9)

 

Shareholders' Equity   
Preferred stock258
 258
Common stock, $5 par value, authorized 800,000,000 shares; 264,374,809 shares outstanding at respective dates1,322
 1,322
Additional paid-in capital8,505
 8,505
Reinvested earnings9,127
 9,656
Accumulated other comprehensive income5
 6
Total shareholders' equity19,217
 19,747
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY$69,728
 $67,884
    
See accompanying Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.




PACIFIC GAS AND ELECTRIC COMPANY

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

 

(Unaudited)

 

Nine Months Ended September 30,

(in millions)

2017

 

2016

Cash Flows from Operating Activities

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

$

1,491 

 

$

706 

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by

 

 

 

 

 

operating activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation, amortization, and decommissioning

 

2,134 

 

 

2,090 

Allowance for equity funds used during construction

 

(63)

 

 

(84)

Deferred income taxes and tax credits, net

 

848 

 

 

648 

    Disallowed capital expenditures

 

47 

 

 

517 

    Other

 

196 

 

 

234 

Effect of changes in operating assets and liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

Accounts receivable

 

(58)

 

 

(283)

Butte-related insurance receivable

 

(166)

 

 

(263)

Inventories

 

(35)

 

 

(38)

Accounts payable

 

76 

 

 

194 

Butte-related third-party claims

 

12 

 

 

321 

Income taxes receivable/payable

 

135 

 

 

(64)

Other current assets and liabilities

 

36 

 

 

(28)

Regulatory assets, liabilities, and balancing accounts, net

 

(30)

 

 

(634)

    Other noncurrent assets and liabilities

 

69 

 

 

(75)

Net cash provided by operating activities

 

4,692 

 

 

3,241 

Cash Flows from Investing Activities

 

 

 

 

 

Capital expenditures

 

(3,938)

 

 

(4,128)

Decrease in restricted cash

 

- 

 

 

66 

Proceeds from sales and maturities of nuclear decommissioning

 

 

 

 

 

trust investments

 

1,043 

 

 

1,019 

Purchases of nuclear decommissioning trust investments

 

(1,071)

 

 

(1,050)

Other

 

16 

 

 

10 

Net cash used in investing activities

 

(3,950)

 

 

(4,083)

Cash Flows from Financing Activities

 

 

 

 

 

Net issuances (repayments) of commercial paper, net of discount of

 

 

 

 

 

     $4 and $5 at respective dates

 

(652)

 

 

(293)

Short-term debt financing

 

250 

 

 

250 

Short-term debt matured

 

(250)

 

 

- 

Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt, net of discount and

 

 

 

 

 

     issuance costs of $11 and $6 at respective dates

 

734 

 

 

594 

Long-term debt matured or repurchased

 

(345)

 

 

- 

Preferred stock dividends paid

 

(10)

 

 

(10)

Common stock dividends paid

 

(784)

 

 

(423)

Equity contribution from PG&E Corporation

 

405 

 

 

740 

Other

 

(91)

 

 

(7)

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

 

(743)

 

 

851 

Net change in cash and cash equivalents

 

(1)

 

 

9 

Cash and cash equivalents at January 1

 

71 

 

 

59 

Cash and cash equivalents at September 30

$ 

70 

 

$ 

68 

16


 (Unaudited)
 Six Months Ended June 30,
(in millions)2018 2017
Cash Flows from Operating Activities 
  
Net income (loss)$(524) $978
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:   
Depreciation, amortization, and decommissioning1,498
 1,424
Allowance for equity funds used during construction(63) (34)
Deferred income taxes and tax credits, net(149) 534
Disallowed capital expenditures

47
Other57
 127
Effect of changes in operating assets and liabilities:   
Accounts receivable(11) 113
Wildfire-related insurance receivable(144) 54
Inventories(6) (38)
Accounts payable40
 45
Wildfire-related claims2,299
 (116)
Income taxes receivable/payable

75
Other current assets and liabilities(95) (72)
Regulatory assets, liabilities, and balancing accounts, net(12) (353)
Other noncurrent assets and liabilities(168) 40
Net cash provided by operating activities2,722
 2,824
Cash Flows from Investing Activities   
Capital expenditures(2,897) (2,474)
Proceeds from sales and maturities of nuclear decommissioning trust investments802
 794
Purchases of nuclear decommissioning trust investments(815) (817)
Other15
 8
Net cash used in investing activities
(2,895) (2,489)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities   
Borrowings under revolving credit facilities650


Net issuances (repayments) of commercial paper, net of discount of $0 and $3 at respective dates(50) (339)
Short-term debt financing250
 250
Short-term debt matured(250) (250)
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt, net of discount and issuance costs of $0 and $11 at respective dates
 734
Long-term debt matured or repurchased(400) (345)
Preferred stock dividends paid
 (7)
Common stock dividends paid
 (514)
Equity contribution from PG&E Corporation
 190
Other10
 (68)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities210
 (349)
Net change in cash and cash equivalents37
 (14)
Cash and cash equivalents at January 1
447
 71
Cash and cash equivalents at June 30$484
 $57

Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information

 

 

 

 

 

Cash received (paid) for:

 

 

 

 

 

Interest, net of amounts capitalized

$

(636)

 

$

(602)

Income taxes, net

 

158 

 

 

151 

Supplemental disclosures of noncash investing and financing activities

 

 

 

 

 

Common stock dividends declared but not yet paid

$

- 

 

$

244 

Capital expenditures financed through accounts payable

 

301 

 

 

325 

 

 

 

 

 

 

See accompanying Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.


Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information   
Cash received (paid) for:   
Interest, net of amounts capitalized$(387) $(390)
Income taxes, net

76
Supplemental disclosures of noncash investing and financing activities   
Capital expenditures financed through accounts payable$317
 $268
Terminated capital leases137
 
    
See accompanying Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

17



NOTES TO THE CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)


NOTE 1: ORGANIZATION AND BASIS OF PRESENTATION


PG&E Corporation is a holding company whose primary operating subsidiary is Pacific Gas and Electric Company, a public utility serving northern and central California.  The Utility generates revenues mainly through the sale and delivery of electricity and natural gas to customers.  The Utility is primarily regulated by the CPUC and the FERC.  In addition, the NRC oversees the licensing, construction, operation, and decommissioning of the Utility’s nuclear generation facilities.


This quarterly report on Form 10-Q is a combined report of PG&E Corporation and the Utility.  PG&E Corporation’s Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of PG&E Corporation, the Utility, and other wholly owned and controlled subsidiaries.  The Utility’s Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of the Utility and its wholly owned and controlled subsidiaries.  All intercompany transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.  The Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements apply to both PG&E Corporation and the Utility.  PG&E Corporation and the Utility assess financial performance and allocate resources on a consolidated basis (i.e., the companies operate in one segment).


The accompanying Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in conformity with GAAP and in accordance with the interim period reporting requirements of Form 10-Q and reflect all adjustments (consisting only of normal recurring adjustments) that management believes are necessary for the fair presentation of PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows for the periods presented.  The information at December 31, 20162017 in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets included in this quarterly report was derived from the audited Consolidated Balance Sheets in Item 8 of the 20162017 Form 10-K.  This quarterly report should be read in conjunction with the 20162017 Form 10-K. 


The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires the use of estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. Some of the more significant estimates and assumptions relate to the Utility’s regulatory assets and liabilities, legal and regulatory contingencies, insurance recoveries, environmental remediation liabilities, AROs, and pension and other postretirementpost-retirement benefit plans obligations.  Management believes that its estimates and assumptions reflected in the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements are appropriate and reasonable.  A change in management’s estimates or assumptions could result in an adjustment that would have a material impact on PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s financial condition and results of operations during the period in which such change occurred.


Beginning on October 8, 2017, multiple wildfires spread through Northern California, including Napa, Sonoma, Butte, Humboldt, Mendocino, Del Norte, Lake, Nevada, and Yuba Counties, as well as in the area surrounding Yuba City (the “Northern California wildfires”).  According to the Cal Fire California Statewide Fire Summary dated October 30, 2017, at the peak of the wildfires, there were 21 major wildfires in Northern California that, in total, burned over 245,000 acres resulted in 43 fatalities, and destroyed an estimated 8,900 structures. The causes of these fireswildfires also resulted in 44 fatalities. The Northern California wildfires are being investigatedunder investigation by Cal Fire and the CPUC,CPUC's SED. Cal Fire issued its determination on the causes of 16 of the Northern California wildfires and the remaining wildfires remain under Cal Fire’s investigation, including the possible role of the Utility’s power lines and other facilities. See “Northern California Wildfires” in Note 109 below.


NOTE 2: SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The


For a summary of the significant accounting policies used by PG&E Corporation and the Utility, are discussed insee Note 2 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8 of the 20162017 Form 10-K.


Variable Interest Entities


A VIE is an entity that does not have sufficient equity at risk to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support from other parties, or whose equity investors lack any characteristics of a controlling financial interest.  An enterprise that has a controlling financial interest in a VIE is a primary beneficiary and is required to consolidate the VIE. 

18




Some of the counterparties to the Utility’s power purchase agreements are considered VIEs.  Each of these VIEs was designed to own a power plant that would generate electricity for sale to the Utility.  To determine whether the Utility has a controlling interest or was the primary beneficiary of any of these VIEs at SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, the Utility assessed whether it absorbs any of the VIE’s expected losses or receives any portion of the VIE’s expected residual returns under the terms of the power purchase agreement, analyzed the variability in the VIE’s gross margin, and considered whether it had any decision-making rights associated with the activities that are most significant to the VIE’s performance, such as dispatch rights and operating and maintenance activities.  The Utility’s financial obligation is limited to the amount the Utility pays for delivered electricity and capacity.  The Utility did not have any decision-making rights associated with any of the activities that are most significant to the economic performance of any of these VIEs.  Since the Utility was not the primary beneficiary of any of these VIEs at SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, it did not consolidate any of them.

Asset Retirement Obligations

Detailed studies of the cost to decommission the Utility’s nuclear generation facilities are conducted every three years in conjunction with the NDCTP.  On May 25, 2017, the CPUC issued a final decision in the 2015 NDCTP adopting a nuclear decommissioning cost estimate of $1.1 billion for Humboldt Bay, corresponding to the Utility’s request, and $2.4 billion for Diablo Canyon, compared to the Utility’s request of $3.8 billion, or 64 percent of its request.  On an aggregate basis, the final decision adopted a $3.5 billion total nuclear decommissioning cost estimate, compared to $4.8 billion requested by the Utility.  Compared to the Utility’s estimated cost to decommission Diablo Canyon, the final decision adopts assumptions which lower costs for large component removal, site security, decommissioning contractor staff, spent nuclear fuel storage, and waste disposal.  The Utility can seek recovery of these costs in the 2018 NDCTP.  The CPUC’s final decision resulted in a $66 million reduction to the ARO on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets related to the assumed length of the wet cooling period of spent nuclear fuel after plant shut down. 

The estimated nuclear decommissioning cost is discounted for GAAP purposes and recognized as an ARO on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.  The total nuclear decommissioning obligation accrued in accordance with GAAP was $3.4 billion at September 30, 2017, and $3.5 billion at December 31, 2016.  These estimates are based on decommissioning cost studies, prepared in accordance with the CPUC requirements.  Changes in these estimates could materially affect the amount of the recorded ARO for these assets.


Pension and Other Post-retirementPost-Retirement Benefits


PG&E Corporation and the Utility sponsor a non-contributory defined benefit pension plan and cash balance plan.  Both plans are included in “Pension Benefits” below.  Post-retirement medical and life insurance plans are included in “Other Benefits” below.


The net periodic benefit costs reflected in PG&E Corporation’s Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for the three and ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and 20162017 were as follows:

 

Pension Benefits

 

Other Benefits

 

Three Months Ended September 30,

(in millions)

2017

 

2016

 

2017

 

2016

Service cost for benefits earned

$

118 

 

$ 

113 

 

$ 

14 

 

$ 

13 

Interest cost

 

178 

 

 

179 

 

 

20 

 

 

19 

Expected return on plan assets

 

(193)

 

 

(207)

 

 

(24)

 

 

(26)

Amortization of prior service cost

 

(1)

 

 

2 

 

 

4 

 

 

3 

Amortization of net actuarial loss

 

6 

 

 

6 

 

 

1 

 

 

1 

Net periodic benefit cost

 

108 

 

 

93 

 

 

15 

 

 

10 

Regulatory account transfer (1)

 

(23)

 

 

(8)

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

Total

$ 

85 

 

$ 

85 

 

$ 

15 

 

$ 

10 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Pension Benefits Other Benefits
 Three Months Ended June 30,
(in millions)2018 2017 2018 2017
Service cost for benefits earned$129
 $118
 $17
 $15
Interest cost172
 178
 18
 19
Expected return on plan assets(256) (192) (32) (25)
Amortization of prior service cost(2) (2) 3
 4
Amortization of net actuarial loss2
 5
 (2) 1
Net periodic benefit cost45
 107
 4
 14
Regulatory account transfer (1)
39
 (23) 
 
Total$84
 $84
 $4
 $14
        
(1)The Utility recorded these amounts to a regulatory account since they are probable of recovery from, or refund to, customers in future rates.


 Pension Benefits Other Benefits
 Six Months Ended June 30,
(in millions)2018 2017 2018 2017
Service cost for benefits earned$257
 $236
 $33
 $30
Interest cost344
 357
 35
 38
Expected return on plan assets(511) (385) (65) (49)
Amortization of prior service cost(3) (4) 7
 8
Amortization of net actuarial loss3
 11
 (3) 2
Net periodic benefit cost90
 215
 7
 29
Regulatory account transfer (1)
77
 (46) 
 
Total$167
 $169
 $7
 $29
        


 

Pension Benefits

 

Other Benefits

 

Nine Months Ended September 30,

(in millions)

2017

 

2016

 

2017

 

2016

Service cost for benefits earned

$

354 

 

$ 

339 

 

$ 

44 

 

$ 

39 

Interest cost

 

535 

 

 

537 

 

 

58 

 

 

57 

Expected return on plan assets

 

(578)

 

 

(621)

 

 

(73)

 

 

(80)

Amortization of prior service cost

 

(5)

 

 

6 

 

 

12 

 

 

11 

Amortization of net actuarial loss

 

17 

 

 

18 

 

 

3 

 

 

3 

Net periodic benefit cost

 

323 

 

 

279 

 

 

44 

 

 

30 

Regulatory account transfer (1)

 

(69)

 

 

(25)

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

Total

$ 

254 

 

$ 

254 

 

$ 

44 

 

$ 

30 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1)The Utility recorded these amounts to a regulatory account since they are probable of recovery from, or refund to, customers in future rates.


Non-service costs are reflected in Other income, net on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income.

There was no material difference between PG&E Corporation and the Utility for the information disclosed above.


20




Reporting of Amounts Reclassified Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income(Loss)


The changes, net of income tax, in PG&E Corporation’s accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) are summarized below:

 

Pension

 

Other

 

 

 

 

Benefits

 

Benefits

 

Total

(in millions, net of income tax)

Three Months Ended September 30, 2017

Beginning balance

$

(25)

 

$

17 

 

$

(8)

Amounts reclassified from other comprehensive income: (1)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Amortization of prior service cost

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(net of taxes of $0 and $2, respectively)

 

(1)

 

 

2 

 

 

1 

Amortization of net actuarial loss

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(net of taxes of $2 and $0, respectively)

 

4 

 

 

1 

 

 

5 

Regulatory account transfer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(net of taxes of $2 and $2, respectively)

 

(3)

 

 

(3)

 

 

(6)

Net current period other comprehensive gain (loss)

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

Ending balance

$ 

(25)

 

$ 

17 

 

$ 

(8)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Pension
Benefits
 Other
Benefits
 Total
(in millions, net of income tax)Three Months Ended June 30, 2018
Beginning balance$(30) $17
 $(13)
Amounts reclassified from other comprehensive income:     
Amortization of prior service cost (net of taxes of $1 and $1, respectively) (1)
(1) 2
 1
Amortization of net actuarial loss (net of taxes of $1 and $1, respectively) (1)
1
 (1) 
Regulatory account transfer (net of taxes of $0 and $0, respectively) (1)

 (1) (1)
Reclassification of stranded income tax to retained earnings (net of taxes of $0 and $0, respectively)
 
 
Net current period other comprehensive gain (loss)
 
 
Ending balance$(30) $17
 $(13)
      
(1)These components are included in the computation of net periodic pension and other postretirementpost-retirement benefit costs.  (See the “Pension and Other PostretirementPost-Retirement Benefits” table above for additional details.)

 

Pension

 

Other

 

 

 

 

Benefits

 

Benefits

 

Total

(in millions, net of income tax)

Three Months Ended September 30, 2016

Beginning balance

$

(23)

 

$

16 

 

$

(7)

Amounts reclassified from other comprehensive income: (1)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Amortization of prior service cost

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(net of taxes of $0 and $2, respectively)

 

2 

 

 

1 

 

 

3 

Amortization of net actuarial loss

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(net of taxes of $3, and $0, respectively)

 

3 

 

 

1 

 

 

4 

Regulatory account transfer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(net of taxes of $3 and $2, respectively)

 

(5)

 

 

(2)

 

 

(7)

Net current period other comprehensive gain (loss)

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

Ending balance

$

(23)

 

$ 

16 

 

$ 

(7)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


 Pension Benefits Other
Benefits
 Total
(in millions, net of income tax)Three Months Ended June 30, 2017
Beginning balance$(25) $16
 $(9)
Amounts reclassified from other comprehensive income: (1)
     
Amortization of prior service cost (net of taxes of $1 and $1, respectively)(1) 3
 2
Amortization of net actuarial loss (net of taxes of $2 and $1, respectively)3
 
 3
Regulatory account transfer (net of taxes of $1 and $2, respectively)(2) (2) (4)
Net current period other comprehensive gain (loss)
 1
 1
Ending balance$(25) $17
 $(8)
      
(1)These components are included in the computation of net periodic pension and other postretirementpost-retirement benefit costs.  (See the “Pension and Other PostretirementPost-Retirement Benefits” table above for additional details.)

21



 

Pension

 

Other

 

 

 

 

Benefits

 

Benefits

 

Total

(in millions, net of income tax)

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017

Beginning balance

$

(25)

 

$

16 

 

$

(9)

Amounts reclassified from other comprehensive income: (1)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Amortization of prior service cost

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(net of taxes of $2 and $5, respectively)

 

(3)

 

 

7 

 

 

4 

Amortization of net actuarial loss

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(net of taxes of $7 and $1, respectively)

 

10 

 

 

2 

 

 

12 

Regulatory account transfer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(net of taxes of $5 and $6, respectively)

 

(7)

 

 

(8)

 

 

(15)

Net current period other comprehensive gain (loss)

 

- 

 

 

1 

 

 

1 

Ending balance

$

(25)

 

$

17 

 

$

(8)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



 Pension Benefits Other Benefits Total
(in millions, net of income tax)Six Months Ended June 30, 2018
Beginning balance$(25) $17
 $(8)
Amounts reclassified from other comprehensive income: 
     
Amortization of prior service cost (net of taxes of $1 and $2, respectively) (1)
(2) 5
 3
Amortization of net actuarial loss (net of taxes of $1 and $1, respectively) (1)
2
 (2) 
Regulatory account transfer (net of taxes of $0 and $1, respectively) (1)

 (3) (3)
Reclassification of stranded income tax to retained earnings (net of taxes of $0, and $0, respectively)(5) 
 (5)
Net current period other comprehensive gain (loss)$(5) $
 $(5)
Ending balance(30) 17
 (13)
      
(1)These components are included in the computation of net periodic pension and other postretirementpost-retirement benefit costs.  (See the “Pension and Other PostretirementPost-Retirement Benefits” table above for additional details.)

 

Pension

 

Other

 

 

 

 

Benefits

 

Benefits

 

Total

(in millions, net of income tax)

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016

Beginning balance

$

(23)

 

$

16 

 

$

(7)

Amounts reclassified from other comprehensive income: (1)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Amortization of prior service cost

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(net of taxes of $2 and $5, respectively)

 

4 

 

 

6 

 

 

10 

Amortization of net actuarial loss

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(net of taxes of $7 and $1, respectively)

 

11 

 

 

2 

 

 

13 

Regulatory account transfer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(net of taxes of $9 and $6, respectively)

 

(15)

 

 

(8)

 

 

(23)

Net current period other comprehensive gain (loss)

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

Ending balance

$

(23)

 

$ 

16 

 

$

(7)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Pension Benefits Other Benefits Total
(in millions, net of income tax)Six Months Ended June 30, 2017
Beginning balance$(25) $16
 $(9)
Amounts reclassified from other comprehensive income: (1)
     
Amortization of prior service cost (net of taxes of $2 and $3, respectively)(2) 5
 3
Amortization of net actuarial loss (net of taxes of $5 and $1, respectively)6
 1
 7
Regulatory account transfer (net of taxes of $3 and $4, respectively)(4) (5) (9)
Net current period other comprehensive gain (loss)$
 $1
 $1
Ending balance(25) 17
 (8)
      
(1)These components are included in the computation of net periodic pension and other postretirementpost-retirement benefit costs.  (See the “Pension and Other PostretirementPost-Retirement Benefits” table above for additional details.)


There was no material difference between PG&E Corporation and the Utility for the information disclosed above.

Recently

Recently Adopted Accounting Guidance

Share-Based Payment AccountingStandards


Revenue Recognition Standard

In March 2016,May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-09,2014-9, Compensation – Stock CompensationRevenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 718)606), which amends the existing guidance relatingprevious revenue recognition guidance.  The objective of the new standard is to the accountingprovide a single, comprehensive revenue recognition model for share-based payment awards issuedall contracts with customers to employees, including the income tax consequences, classificationimprove comparability across entities, industries, jurisdictions, and capital markets and to provide more useful information to users of awards as either equity or liabilities,financial statements through improved and classification on the statements of cash flows.expanded disclosure requirements.  PG&E Corporation and the Utility applied the requirements using the modified retrospective method when the ASU became effective on January 1, 2018. The adoption of this guidance did not have adopted this standarda material impact on the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements as of the fourth quarteradoption date or for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018. A majority of 2016. 

ASU 2016-09 requires,the Utility’s revenue from contracts with customers continues to be recognized on a retrospectivemonthly basis based on applicable tariffs and customers' monthly consumption. Such revenue is recognized using the invoice practical expedient which allows an entity to recognize revenue in the amount that employee taxes paiddirectly corresponds to the value transferred to the customer.




Revenue from Contracts with Customers

The Utility recognizes revenues when electricity and natural gas services are delivered.  The Utility records unbilled revenues for withheld shares be classified as cash flows from financing activities rather than as cash flows from operating activities.  As such,the estimated amount of energy delivered to customers but not yet billed at the end of the period.  Unbilled revenues are included in accounts receivable on the Condensed Consolidated StatementsBalance Sheets.  Rates charged to customers are based on CPUC and FERC authorized revenue requirements. Revenues can vary significantly from period to period because of Cash Flowsseasonality, weather, and customer usage patterns.

The FERC authorizes the Utility’s revenue requirements in periodic (often annual) TO rate cases.  The Utility’s ability to recover revenue requirements authorized by the FERC is dependent on the volume of the Utility’s electricity sales, and revenue is recognized only for PG&E Corporationamounts billed and unbilled, net of revenues subject to refund.

Regulatory Balancing Account Revenue

The CPUC authorizes most of the Utility’s revenues in the Utility’s GRC and its GT&S rate cases, which generally occur every three or four years.  The Utility’s ability to recover revenue requirements authorized by the CPUC in these rate cases is independent, or “decoupled,” from the volume of the Utility’s sales of electricity and natural gas services.  The Utility recognizes revenues that have been authorized for rate recovery, are objectively determinable and probable of recovery, and are expected to be collected within 24 months.  Generally, electric and natural gas operating revenue is recognized ratably over the year.  The Utility records a balancing account asset or liability for differences between customer billings and authorized revenue requirements that are probable of recovery or refund. 

The CPUC also has authorized the Utility to collect additional revenue requirements to recover costs that the Utility has been authorized to pass on to customers, including costs to purchase electricity and natural gas, and to fund public purpose, demand response, and customer energy efficiency programs.  In general, the revenue recognition criteria for pass-through costs billed to customers are met at the prior periods presented were retrospectively adjusted.  This change resulted in an increasetime the costs are incurred. The Utility records a regulatory balancing account asset or liability for differences between incurred costs and customer billings or authorized revenue meant to cash flows from operating activities andrecover those costs, to the extent that these differences are probable of recovery or refund. As a decrease to cash flows from financing activities of $35 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016.

result, these differences have no impact on net income.



The following table presents the Utility’s revenues disaggregated by type of customer:

(in millions)Three Months Ended June 30, 2018 Six Months Ended June 30, 2018
Electric   
Revenue from contracts with customers   
   Residential$1,039
 $2,375
   Commercial1,234
 2,307
   Industrial354
 678
   Agricultural318
 443
   Public street and highway lighting18
 38
   Other (1)
84
 (118)
      Total revenue from contracts with customers - electric3,047
 5,723
Regulatory balancing accounts (2)
265
 540
Total electric operating revenue$3,312
 $6,263
    
Natural gas   
Revenue from contracts with customers   
   Residential$452
 $1,410
   Commercial119
 315
   Transportation service only264
 560
   Other (1)
(128) (179)
      Total revenue from contracts with customers - gas707
 2,106
Regulatory balancing accounts (2)
215
 (79)
Total natural gas operating revenue922
 2,027
Total operating revenues$4,234
 $8,290
    

(1) This activity is primarily related to the change in unbilled revenue, partially offset by other miscellaneous revenue items.
(2) These amounts represent revenues authorized to be billed or refunded to customers.

Accounting Standards Issued But Not Yet Adopted

Presentation of Net Periodic Pension Cost

and Post-Retirement Benefit Costs


In March 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-07, Compensation – Retirement Benefits (Topic 715), which amends the existing guidance relating to the presentation of net periodic pension cost and net periodic postretirementother post-retirement benefit cost. costs.  PG&E Corporation and the Utility applied the requirements when the ASU became effective on January 1, 2018.

On a retrospective basis, the amendment requires an employer to disaggregateseparate the service cost component from the other components of net benefit cost and provides explicit guidance on how to present the service cost component and other components in the income statement.  In addition, onAs a result, the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income for PG&E Corporation and the Utility were restated. This change resulted in increases to Operating and maintenance expenses and Other income, net, of $13 million and $13 million for PG&E Corporation and the Utility, respectively, for the three months ended June 30, 2017 and $26 million and $27 million for PG&E Corporation and the Utility, respectively, for the six months ended June 30, 2017.

On a prospective basis, the ASU limits the component of net benefit cost eligible to be capitalized to service costs. The ASU will be effective for PG&E CorporationFERC has allowed and the Utility onhas made a one-time election to adopt the new FASB guidance for regulatory filing purposes.  In January 1, 2018, with early adoption permitted.  Although PG&E Corporationthe CPUC approved modifications to the Utility’s calculation for pension-related revenue requirements to allow for capitalization of only the service cost component determined by a plan’s actuary. The capitalization of service costs only results in higher rate base and leads to a reduction in the Utility are currently evaluating the impact the guidance will have on the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and related disclosures, it isUtility’s 2018 revenues.  The changes in capitalization of retirement benefits did not expected to have a material impact to financial results.

Restricted Cash

In November 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-18, Statement of Cash Flows – Restricted Cash (Topic 230), which amends the existing guidance relating to the disclosure of restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents on the statement of cash flows.  The ASU will be effective for PG&E CorporationCorporation’s and the Utility on January 1, 2018, with early adoption permitted.  PG&E Corporation and the Utility will adopt this ASU in the first quarter of 2018 and do not expect a material impact to theUtility’s Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows and related disclosures as a result of this ASU.Financial Statements.

Recognition of Lease Assets and Liabilities

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842), which amends the existing guidance relating to the definition of a lease, recognition of lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet, and the disclosure of key information about leasing arrangements. Under the new standard, all lessees must recognize an asset and liability on the balance sheet.  Operating leases were previously not recognized on the balance sheet. The ASU will be effective for PG&E Corporation and the Utility on January 1, 2019, with early adoption permitted. PG&E Corporation and the Utility plan to early adopt this guidance in the fourth quarter of 2018 using a modified retrospective approach.  The modified retrospective approach includes a number of optional practical expedients that entities may elect to apply. PG&E Corporation and the Utility expect this standard to increase lease assets and lease liabilities on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, and are still evaluating the impact the guidance will have on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income, Statements of Cash Flows and lease disclosures. 




Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities


In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-01, Financial Instruments – Overall (Subtopic 825-10): Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities, which amends the existing guidance relating to the recognition, measurement, presentation, and disclosure of financial instruments.  The amendments require equity investments (excluding those accounted for under the equity method or those that result in consolidation) to be measured at fair value, with changes in fair value recognized in net income.  The majority of PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s investments are held in the nuclear decommissioning trusts.  These investments are classified as “available-for-sale”trusts and gains or losses are refundable or recoverable, respectively, from customers through rates.  The ASU became effective for PG&E Corporation and the Utility on January 1, 2018 and did not have a material impact on the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and related disclosures.

Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income

In February 2018, the FASB issued ASU No. 2018-02, Income Statement - Reporting Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income. The amendments in this update allow a reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive income to retained earnings for stranded tax effects resulting from the Tax Act. When amounts are reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income to the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income, PG&E Corporation and the Utility recognize the related income tax expense at the tax rate in effect at that time. The ASU is effective for PG&E Corporation and the Utility on January 1, 2019, and early adoption is permitted. PG&E Corporation and the Utility early adopted this ASU on January 1, 2018, resulting in an immaterial reclassification.

Accounting Standards Issued But Not Yet Adopted

Recognition of Lease Assets and Liabilities

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842), which amends the guidance relating to the definition of a lease, recognition of lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet, and the disclosure of key information about leasing arrangements.  In November 2017, the FASB tentatively decided to amend the new leasing guidance such that entities may elect not to restate their comparative periods in the period of adoption. Under the new standard, all lessees must recognize an asset and liability on the balance sheet. Operating leases were previously not recognized on the balance sheet.  The ASU will be effective for PG&E Corporation and the Utility on January 1, 2018.2019, with early adoption permitted.

PG&E Corporation and the Utility intend to elect certain practical expedients and will carry forward historical conclusions related to (1) contracts that contain leases, (2) existing lease and easement classification, and (3) initial direct costs. Additionally, PG&E Corporation and the Utility do not expect a material impactintend to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and related disclosures as a result of this ASU.

Revenue Recognition Standard

In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606), which amends existing revenue recognition guidance, effective January 1, 2018.  The objective of the new standard is to provide a single, comprehensive revenue recognition model for all contracts with customers to improve comparability across entities, industries, jurisdictions, and capital markets and to provide more useful information to users of financial statements through improved and expanded disclosure requirements.   

The majority of the Utility’s revenue, including energy provided to customers, is from tariff offerings that provide natural gas or electricity without a defined contractual term.  For such arrangements, the Utility generally expects that the revenue from contracts with these customers will continue to be equivalent to the electricity or natural gas supplied and billed in that period (including unbilled revenues) and the adoption of the new guidance will not result in a significant shift in the timing of revenue recognition for such sales.


23

PG&E Corporation and the Utility intendplan to useadopt this guidance in the modified retrospective method when adopting the new standard on January 1, 2018.first quarter of 2019. PG&E Corporation and the Utility expect that the impact of the new guidance will be immaterialthis standard to increase lease assets and lease liabilities on the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.  Upon adoptionBalance Sheets and do not expect the guidance will have a material impact on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of ASU 2014-09, the Utility plans to disclose revenues from contracts with customers separately from regulatory balancing account revenueIncome, Statements of Cash Flows and disaggregate customer contract revenue by customer class.

related disclosures.





Regulatory Assetsand Liabilities

Current Regulatory Assets

At September 30, 2017, the Utility had current regulatory assets of $573 million, which included $392 million of costs related to CEMA fire prevention and vegetation management.  In 2014, the CPUC directed the Utility to perform additional vegetation management work in response to the severe drought in California.


Long-Term Regulatory Assets


Long-term regulatory assets are comprised of the following:

 

Asset Balance at

(in millions)

September 30,

2017

 

December 31,

2016

Deferred income taxes

$

4,373 

 

$ 

3,859 

Pension benefits

 

2,487 

 

 

2,429 

Environmental compliance costs

 

779 

 

 

778 

Utility retained generation

 

331 

 

 

364 

Price risk management

 

77 

 

 

92 

Unamortized loss, net of gain, on reacquired debt

 

65 

 

 

76 

Other

 

434 

 

 

353 

Total long-term regulatory assets

$

8,546 

 

$

7,951 

 

 

 

 

 

 

At September 30, 2017, other long-term regulatory assets included $189 million of

 Asset Balance at
(in millions)June 30, 2018 December 31, 2017
Pension benefits$1,877
 $1,954
Environmental compliance costs784
 837
Utility retained generation297
 319
Price risk management63
 65
Unamortized loss, net of gain, on reacquired debt84
 79
Catastrophic event memorandum account (1)
654
 274
Wildfire expense memorandum account (2)
69
 
Other293
 265
Total long-term regulatory assets$4,121
 $3,793
    
(1) Represents costs related to certain catastrophic event-related costs incurred 2012 through 2017events that the Utility believes is recoverable through CEMA based on historical experience in recoveringare probable of recovery. For more information, see Note 9 below.
(2) Represents costs for these typesrelated to insurance premiums that the Utility believes are probable of events. 

recovery. For more information, see Note 9 below.


Long-Term Regulatory Liabilities


Long-term regulatory liabilities are comprised of the following:

 

Liability Balance at

(in millions)

September 30,

2017

 

December 31,

2016

Cost of removal obligations

$

5,456 

 

$

5,060 

Recoveries in excess of AROs

 

622 

 

 

626 

Public purpose programs

 

573 

 

 

567 

Other

 

614 

 

 

552 

Total long-term regulatory liabilities

$

7,265 

 

$

6,805 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Liability Balance at
(in millions)June 30, 2018 December 31, 2017
Cost of removal obligations$5,775
 $5,547
Deferred income taxes611
 1,021
Recoveries in excess of AROs467
 624
Public purpose programs636
 590
Other1,009
 897
Total long-term regulatory liabilities$8,498
 $8,679

For more information, see Note 3 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8 of the 20162017 Form 10-K.

24






Regulatory Balancing Accounts


Current regulatory balancing accounts receivable and payable are comprised of the following:

 

Receivable

 

Balance at

(in millions)

September 30,

2017

 

December 31,

2016

Electric distribution

$

- 

 

$

132 

Electric transmission

 

182 

 

 

244 

Utility generation

 

- 

 

 

48 

Gas distribution and transmission

 

654 

 

 

541 

Energy procurement

 

135 

 

 

132 

Public purpose programs

 

116 

 

 

106 

Other

 

391 

 

 

297 

Total regulatory balancing accounts receivable

$

1,478 

 

$

1,500 

 

Payable

 

Balance at

(in millions)

September 30,

2017

 

December 31,

2016

Electric distribution

$

197 

 

$

- 

Utility generation

 

150 

 

 

- 

Electric transmission

 

142 

 

 

99 

Gas distribution and transmission

 

- 

 

 

48 

Energy procurement

 

131 

 

 

13 

Public purpose programs

 

426 

 

 

264 

Other

 

282 

 

 

221 

Total regulatory balancing accounts payable

$

1,328 

 

$

645 

 Receivable Balance at
(in millions)June 30, 2018 December 31, 2017
Electric distribution$323
 $
Electric transmission110
 139
Utility generation120
 
Gas distribution and transmission397
 486
Energy procurement95
 71
Public purpose programs32
 103
Other486
 423
Total regulatory balancing accounts receivable$1,563
 $1,222

 Payable Balance at
(in millions)June 30, 2018 December 31, 2017
Electric distribution$
 $72
Electric transmission120
 120
Utility generation
 14
Energy procurement151
 149
Public purpose programs513
 452
Other519
 313
Total regulatory balancing accounts payable$1,303
 $1,120

For more information, see Note 3 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8 of the 20162017 Form 10-K.



Revolving Credit Facilities and Commercial Paper Program


The following table summarizes PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s outstanding borrowings under their revolving credit facilities and commercial paper programs at SeptemberJune 30, 2017:

 

 

 

 

 

Letters of

 

 

 

 

 

Termination

 

Facility

 

Credit

 

Commercial

 

Facility

(in millions)

Date

 

Limit

 

Outstanding

 

Paper

 

Availability

PG&E Corporation

April 2022

 

$

300 

(1)

$

- 

 

$

- 

 

$

300 

Utility

April 2022

 

 

3,000 

(2)

 

50 

 

 

369 

 

 

2,581 

Total revolving credit facilities

 

 

$

3,300 

 

$

50 

 

$

369 

 

$

2,881 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2018:

(in millions)Termination Date 
Facility
Limit
 
Letters of
Credit
Outstanding
 Borrowings 
Facility
Availability
PG&E CorporationApril 2022 $300
(1) 
$
 $50
 $250
UtilityApril 2022 3,000
(2) 
48
 650
 2,302
Total revolving credit facilities  $3,300
 $48
 $700
 $2,552
          
(1)Includes a $50 million lender commitment to the letter of credit sublimit and a $100 million commitment for swingline loans defined as loans that are made available on a same-day basis and are repayable in full within 7 days.

(2)Includes a $500 million lender commitment to the letter of credit sublimit and a $75 million commitment for swingline loans.

In May 2017, PG&E Corporation and the Utility each extended the termination dates of their existing revolving credit facilities by one year from April 27, 2021 to April 27, 2022.



Other Short-term Borrowings


In February 2017,2018, the Utility’s $250 million floating rate unsecured term loan, issued in March 2016,February 2017, matured and was repaid.

Additionally, in February 2017,2018, the Utility entered into a $250 million floating rate unsecured term loan that matureswill mature on February 22, 2018.2019.  The proceeds were used for general corporate purposes, including the repayment of a portion of the Utility’s outstanding commercial paper.

Senior Notes




Long-term Debt Issuances

In March 2017, and Redemptions


During the first quarter of 2018, the Utility issuedsatisfied and discharged its remaining obligation of $400 million aggregate principal amount of 3.30%the 8.25% Senior Notes due MarchOctober 15, 2027 and $2002018.

In April 2018, PG&E Corporation entered into a $350 million principal amountfloating rate unsecured term loan. The term loan will mature on April 16, 2020, unless extended by PG&E Corporation pursuant to the terms of 4.00% Senior Notes due December 1, 2046.the term loan agreement. The proceeds were used for general corporate purposes, including the repaymentearly redemption of a portion of the Utility’sPG&E Corporation’s outstanding commercial paper.

Pollution Control Bonds

In June 2017, the Utility repurchased and retired $345$350 million principal amount of pollution control2.40% Senior Notes due March 1, 2019. On April 26, 2018, PG&E Corporation completed the early redemption of these bonds, Series 2004 A through D.  Additionally inwhich satisfied and discharged its remaining obligation of $350 million.


Variable Rate Interest

At June 2017, the Utility remarketed three series of pollution control bonds, previously held in treasury, totaling $145 million in principal amount.  Series 2008 F and 2010 E bear interest at 1.75% per annum and mature on November 1, 2026. Series 2008 G bears interest at 1.05% per annum and matures on December 1, 2018.

At September 30, 2017,2018, the interest rates on the $614 million principal amount of pollution control bonds Series 1996 C, E, F, and 1997 B and the related loan agreements ranged from 0.88%1.46% to 0.95%1.65%.  At SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, the interest rates on the $149 million principal amount of pollution control bonds Series 2009 A and B, and the related loan agreements, were 0.89%1.65%.


NOTE 5: EQUITY

PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s changes in equity for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 were as follows:

 

PG&E Corporation

 

Utility

 

Total

 

Total

(in millions)

Equity

 

Shareholders' Equity

Balance at December 31, 2016

$

18,192 

 

$

18,395 

Comprehensive income

 

1,543 

 

 

1,492 

Equity contributions

 

- 

 

 

405 

Common stock issued

 

361 

 

 

- 

Share-based compensation

 

2 

 

 

- 

Common stock dividends declared

 

(802)

 

 

(784)

Preferred stock dividend requirement

 

- 

 

 

(10)

Preferred stock dividend requirement of subsidiary

 

(10)

 

 

- 

Balance at September 30, 2017

$

19,286 

 

$

19,498 

In February 2017, PG&E Corporation amended its February 2015 EDA providing for the sale of PG&E Corporation common stock having an aggregate price of up to $275 million.  During the nine months ended September 30, 2017, PG&E Corporation sold 0.4 million shares of its common stock under the February 2017 EDA for cash proceeds of $28.4 million, net of commissions paid of $0.2 million.  

 PG&E Corporation Utility
(in millions)
Total
Equity
 
Total
Shareholders' Equity
Balance at December 31, 2017$19,472
 $19,747
Comprehensive income (loss)(535) (523)
Common stock issued82
 
Share-based compensation49
 
Preferred stock dividend requirement
 (7)
Preferred stock dividend requirement of subsidiary(7) 
Balance at June 30, 2018$19,061
 $19,217

There were no issuances under the PG&E Corporation February 2017 EDAequity distribution agreement for the threesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017.2018.  As of SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, the remaining salesamount available under this agreement werewas $246.3 million.


PG&E Corporation also issued common stock under the PG&E Corporation 401(k) plan the Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan, and share-based compensation plans.  During the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017, 6.42018, 2.3 million shares were issued for cash proceeds of $316$82.3 million under these plans.



NOTE 6: EARNINGS PER SHARE


PG&E Corporation’s basic EPS is calculated by dividing the income available for common shareholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding.  PG&E Corporation applies the treasury stock method of reflecting the dilutive effect of outstanding share-based compensation in the calculation of diluted EPS.  The following is a reconciliation of PG&E Corporation’s income available for common shareholders and weighted average common shares outstanding for calculating diluted EPS:

 

Three Months Ended

 

Nine Months Ended

 

September 30,

 

September 30,

(in millions, except per share amounts)

2017

 

2016

 

2017

 

2016

Income available for common shareholders

$

550 

 

$

388 

 

$

1,532 

 

$

701 

Weighted average common shares outstanding, basic

 

513 

 

 

501 

 

 

511 

 

 

497 

Add incremental shares from assumed conversions:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Employee share-based compensation

 

3 

 

 

2 

 

 

3 

 

 

3 

Weighted average common shares outstanding, diluted

 

516 

 

 

503 

 

 

514 

 

 

500 

Total earnings per common share, diluted

$

1.07 

 

$

0.77 

 

$

2.98 

 

$

1.40 

 Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30,
(in millions, except per share amounts)2018 2017 2018 2017
Income (loss) available for common shareholders$(984) $406
 $(542) $982
Weighted average common shares outstanding, basic516
 511
 516
 510
Add incremental shares from assumed conversions:       
Employee share-based compensation
 2
 1
 2
Weighted average common shares outstanding, diluted516
 513
 517
 512
Total earnings (loss) per common share, diluted$(1.91) $0.79
 $(1.05) $1.92

For each of the periods presented above, the calculation of outstanding common shares on a diluted basis excluded an insignificant amount of options and securities that were antidilutive.


NOTE 7: DERIVATIVES


Use of Derivative Instruments


The Utility is exposed to commodity price risk as a result of its electricity and natural gas procurement activities.  Procurement costs are recovered through customer rates.  The Utility uses both derivative and non-derivative contracts to manage volatility in customer rates due to fluctuating commodity prices.  Derivatives include contracts, such as power purchase agreements, forwards, futures, swaps, options, and CRRs that are traded either on an exchange or over-the-counter. 


Derivatives are presented in the Utility’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets recorded at fair value and on a net basis in accordance with master netting arrangements for each counterparty.  The fair value of derivative instruments is further offset by cash collateral paid or received where the right of offset and the intention to offset exist.  


Price risk management activities that meet the definition of derivatives are recorded at fair value on PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. These instruments are not held for speculative purposes and are subject to certain regulatory requirements. The Utility expects to fully recover in rates all costs related to derivatives under the applicable ratemaking mechanism in place as long as the Utility’s price risk management activities are carried out in accordance with CPUC directives. Therefore, all unrealized gains and losses associated with the change in fair value of these derivatives are deferred and recorded within the Utility’s regulatory assets and liabilities on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. Net realized gains or losses on commodity derivatives are recorded in the cost of electricity or the cost of natural gas with corresponding increases or decreases to regulatory balancing accounts for recovery from or refund to customers.


The Utility elects the normal purchase and sale exception for eligible derivatives.  Eligible derivatives are those that require physical delivery in quantities that are expected to be used by the Utility over a reasonable period in the normal course of business, and do not contain pricing provisions unrelated to the commodity delivered.  These items are not reflected in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets at fair value.  Eligible derivatives are accounted for under the accrual method of accounting.


27




Volume of Derivative Activity


The volumes of the Utility’s outstanding derivatives were as follows:

 

 

 

 

Contract Volume at

 

 

 

 

September 30,

 

December 31,

Underlying Product

 

Instruments

 

2017

 

2016

Natural Gas (1) (MMBtus (2))

 

Forwards, Futures and Swaps

 

300,594,593

 

323,301,331

 

 

Options

 

79,640,435

 

96,602,785

Electricity (Megawatt-hours)

 

Forwards, Futures and Swaps

 

3,505,504

 

3,287,397

 

 

Congestion Revenue Rights (3)

 

249,876,873

 

278,143,281

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    Contract Volume at
Underlying Product Instruments June 30,
2018
 December 31,
2017
Natural Gas (1) (MMBtus (2))
 Forwards, Futures and Swaps 268,296,840
 228,768,745
  Options 36,205,752
 60,736,806
Electricity (Megawatt-hours) Forwards, Futures and Swaps 2,570,861
 2,872,013
  
Congestion Revenue Rights (3)
 304,977,376
 312,272,177
       
(1) Amounts shown are for the combined positions of the electric fuels and core gas supply portfolios.

(2) Million British Thermal Units.

(3) CRRs are financial instruments that enable the holders to manage variability in electric energy congestion charges due to transmission grid limitations.


Presentation of Derivative Instruments in the Financial Statements


At SeptemberJune 30, 2018, the Utility’s outstanding derivative balances were as follows:
 Commodity Risk
(in millions)
Gross Derivative
Balance
 Netting Cash Collateral 
Total Derivative
Balance
Current assets – other$30
 $(2) $4
 $32
Other noncurrent assets – other89
 
 
 89
Current liabilities – other(42) 2
 16
 (24)
Noncurrent liabilities – other(64) 
 8
 (56)
Total commodity risk$13
 $
 $28
 $41

At December 31, 2017, the Utility’s outstanding derivative balances were as follows:

 

Commodity Risk

 

Gross Derivative

 

 

 

 

 

Total Derivative

(in millions)

Balance

 

Netting

 

Cash Collateral

 

Balance

Current assets – other

$

47 

 

$

(7)

 

$

9 

 

$

49 

Other noncurrent assets – other

 

121 

 

 

(3)

 

 

- 

 

 

118 

Current liabilities – other

 

(54)

 

 

7 

 

 

11 

 

 

(36)

Noncurrent liabilities – other

 

(81)

 

 

3 

 

 

7 

 

 

(71)

Total commodity risk

$

33 

 

$

- 

 

$

27 

 

$

60 

At December 31, 2016, the Utility’s outstanding derivative balances were as follows:

 

Commodity Risk

 

Gross Derivative

 

 

 

 

 

Total Derivative

(in millions)

Balance

 

Netting

 

Cash Collateral

 

Balance

Current assets – other

$

91 

 

$

(10)

 

$

1 

 

$

82 

Other noncurrent assets – other

 

149 

 

 

(9)

 

 

- 

 

 

140 

Current liabilities – other

 

(48)

 

 

10 

 

 

- 

 

 

(38)

Noncurrent liabilities – other

 

(101)

 

 

9 

 

 

3 

 

 

(89)

Total commodity risk

$

91 

 

$

- 

 

$

4 

 

$

95 

 Commodity Risk
(in millions)
Gross Derivative
Balance
 Netting Cash Collateral 
Total Derivative
Balance
Current assets – other$30
 $(3) $10
 $37
Other noncurrent assets – other103
 (1) 
 102
Current liabilities – other(47) 3
 13
 (31)
Noncurrent liabilities – other(66) 1
 8
 (57)
Total commodity risk$20
 $
 $31
 $51

Gains and losses associated with price risk management activities were recorded as follows:

 

Commodity Risk

 

Three Months Ended

 

Nine Months Ended

 

September 30,

 

September 30,

(in millions)

2017

 

2016

 

2017

 

2016

Unrealized gain (loss) - regulatory assets and liabilities (1)

$

(6)

 

$ 

(29)

 

$

(58)

 

$

30 

Realized loss - cost of electricity (2)

 

(4)

 

 

(7)

 

 

(8)

 

 

(48)

Realized loss - cost of natural gas (2)

 

(1)

 

 

(9)

 

 

(5)

 

 

(15)

Net commodity risk

$

(11)

 

$ 

(45)

 

$

(71)

 

$

(33)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  Commodity Risk
  Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30,
(in millions) 2018 2017 2018 2017
Unrealized gain (loss) - regulatory assets and liabilities (1)
 $5
 $(4) $(7) $(52)
Realized gain (loss) - cost of electricity (2)
 (10) 1
 (28) (4)
Realized loss - cost of natural gas (2)
 
 (3) (1) (4)
Net commodity risk $(5) $(6) $(36) $(60)
         
(1) Unrealized gains and losses on commodity risk-related derivative instruments are recorded to regulatory liabilities or assets, respectively, rather than being recorded to the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income.  These amounts exclude the impact of cash collateral postings.

(2) These amounts are fully passed through to customers in rates.  Accordingly, net income was not impacted by realized amounts on these instruments.


28




Cash inflows and outflows associated with derivatives are included in operating cash flows on the Utility’s Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.


The majority of the Utility’s derivatives contain collateral posting provisions tied to the Utility’s credit rating from each of the major credit rating agencies.  At SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, the Utility’s credit rating was investment grade.  If the Utility’s credit rating were to fall below investment grade, the Utility would be required to post additional cash immediately to fully collateralize some of its net liability derivative positions.


The additional cash collateral that the Utility would be required to post if the credit risk-related contingency features were triggered was as follows:

 

Balance at

 

September 30,

 

December 31,

(in millions)

2017

 

2016

Derivatives in a liability position with credit risk-related

 

 

 

 

 

contingencies that are not fully collateralized

$

(16)

 

$

(24)

Related derivatives in an asset position

 

3 

 

 

19 

Collateral posting in the normal course of business related to

 

 

 

 

 

these derivatives

 

11 

 

 

4 

Net position of derivative contracts/additional collateral

 

 

 

 

 

posting requirements (1)

$

(2)

 

$

(1)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Balance at
(in millions)June 30,
2018
 December 31,
2017
Derivatives in a liability position with credit risk-related
contingencies that are not fully collateralized
$(1) $(1)
Related derivatives in an asset position
 
Collateral posting in the normal course of business related to
    these derivatives

 
Net position of derivative contracts/additional collateral
posting requirements (1)
$(1) $(1)
    
(1) This calculation excludes the impact of closed but unpaid positions, as their settlement is not impacted by any of the Utility’s credit risk-related contingencies.


NOTE 8: FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS


PG&E Corporation and the Utility measure their cash equivalents, trust assets, and price risk management instruments at fair value.  A three-tier fair value hierarchy is established that prioritizes the inputs to valuation methodologies used to measure fair value:


Level 1 –Observable inputs that reflect quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets.


Level 2 –Other inputs that are directly or indirectly observable in the marketplace.


Level 3 –Unobservable inputs which are supported by little or no market activities.


The fair value hierarchy requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value.



29




Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis for PG&E Corporation and the Utility are summarized below. Assets held in rabbi trusts are held by PG&E Corporation and not the Utility.

 

Fair Value Measurements

 

At September 30, 2017

(in millions)

Level 1

 

Level 2

 

Level 3

 

Netting (1)

 

Total

Assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Short-term investments

$

120 

 

$

- 

 

$

- 

 

$

- 

 

$

120 

Nuclear decommissioning trusts

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Short-term investments

 

23 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

23 

Global equity securities

 

1,875 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

1,875 

Fixed-income securities

 

697 

 

 

569 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

1,266 

Assets measured at NAV

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

16 

Total nuclear decommissioning trusts (2)

 

2,595 

 

 

569 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

3,180 

Price risk management instruments

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Note 7)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Electricity

 

4 

 

 

7 

 

 

153 

 

 

(1)

 

 

163 

Gas

 

- 

 

 

4 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

4 

Total price risk management

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

instruments

 

4 

 

 

11 

 

 

153 

 

 

(1)

 

 

167 

Rabbi trusts

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fixed-income securities

 

- 

 

 

64 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

64 

Life insurance contracts

 

- 

 

 

71 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

71 

Total rabbi trusts

 

- 

 

 

135 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

135 

Long-term disability trust

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Short-term investments

 

5 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

5 

Assets measured at NAV

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

148 

Total long-term disability trust

 

5 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

153 

TOTAL ASSETS

$

2,724 

 

$

715 

 

$

153 

 

$

(1)

 

$

3,755 

Liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Price risk management instruments

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Note 7)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Electricity

$

11 

 

$

17 

 

$

105 

 

$

(28)

 

$

105 

Gas

 

- 

 

 

2 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

2 

TOTAL LIABILITIES

$

11 

 

$

19 

 

$

105 

 

$

(28)

 

$

107 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Fair Value Measurements
 June 30, 2018
(in millions)Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 
Netting (1)
 Total
Assets:         
Short-term investments$473
 
 
 
 $473
Nuclear decommissioning trusts         
Short-term investments22
 
 
 
 22
Global equity securities1,873
 
 
 
 1,873
Fixed-income securities767
 584
 
 
 1,351
Assets measured at NAV
 
 
 
 18
Total nuclear decommissioning trusts (2)
2,662
 584
 
 
 3,264
Price risk management instruments (Note 7)         
Electricity1
 2
 113
 1
 117
Gas
 3
 
 1
 4
Total price risk management instruments1
 5
 113
 2
 121
Rabbi trusts         
Fixed-income securities
 74
 
 
 74
Life insurance contracts
 68
 
 
 68
Total rabbi trusts
 142
 
 
 142
Long-term disability trust         
Short-term investments4
 
 
 
 4
Assets measured at NAV
 
 
 
 155
Total long-term disability trust4
 
 
 
 159
TOTAL ASSETS$3,140
 $731
 $113
 $2
 $4,159
Liabilities:         
Price risk management instruments (Note 7)         
Electricity$6
 $20
 $79
 $(26) $79
Gas
 1
 
 
 1
TOTAL LIABILITIES$6
 $21
 $79
 $(26) $80
          
(1) Includes the effect of the contractual ability to settle contracts under master netting agreements and margin cash collateral.

(2) Represents amount before deducting $387$436 million, primarily related to deferred taxes on appreciation of investment value.


30



 Fair Value Measurements
 December 31, 2017
(in millions)Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 
Netting (1)
 Total
Assets:         
Short-term investments$385
 $
 $
 $
 $385
Nuclear decommissioning trusts         
Short-term investments23
 
 
 
 23
Global equity securities1,967
 
 
 
 1,967
Fixed-income securities733
 562
 
 
 1,295
Assets measured at NAV
 
 
 
 18
Total nuclear decommissioning trusts (2)
2,723
 562
 
 
 3,303
Price risk management instruments (Note 7)         
Electricity
 3
 129
 6
 138
Gas
 1
 
 
 1
Total price risk management instruments
 4
 129
 6
 139
Rabbi trusts         
Fixed-income securities
 72
 
 
 72
Life insurance contracts
 71
 
 
 71
Total rabbi trusts
 143
 
 
 143
Long-term disability trust         
Short-term investments8
 
 
 
 8
Assets measured at NAV
 
 
 
 167
Total long-term disability trust8
 
 
 
 175
TOTAL ASSETS$3,116
 $709
 $129
 $6
 $4,145
Liabilities:         
Price risk management instruments (Note 7)         
Electricity$10
 $15
 $87
 $(25) $87
Gas
 1
 
 
 1
TOTAL LIABILITIES$10
 $16
 $87
 $(25) $88
          


 

Fair Value Measurements

 

At December 31, 2016

(in millions)

Level 1

 

Level 2

 

Level 3

 

Netting (1)

 

Total

Assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Short-term investments

$

105 

 

$

- 

 

$

- 

 

$

- 

 

$

105 

Nuclear decommissioning trusts

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Short-term investments

 

9 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

9 

Global equity securities

 

1,724 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

1,724 

Fixed-income securities

 

665 

 

 

527 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

1,192 

Assets measured at NAV

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

14 

Total nuclear decommissioning trusts (2)

 

2,398 

 

 

527 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

2,939 

Price risk management instruments

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Note 9 in the 2016 Form 10-K)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Electricity

 

30 

 

 

18 

 

 

181 

 

 

(18)

 

 

211 

Gas

 

- 

 

 

11 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

11 

Total price risk management

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

instruments

 

30 

 

 

29 

 

 

181 

 

 

(18)

 

 

222 

Rabbi trusts

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fixed-income securities

 

- 

 

 

61 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

61 

Life insurance contracts

 

- 

 

 

70 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

70 

Total rabbi trusts

 

- 

 

 

131 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

131 

Long-term disability trust

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Short-term investments

 

8 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

8 

Assets measured at NAV

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

170 

Total long-term disability trust

 

8 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

178 

TOTAL ASSETS

$

2,541 

 

$

687 

 

$

181 

 

$

(18)

 

$

3,575 

Liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Price risk management instruments

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Note 9 in the 2016 Form 10-K)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Electricity

$

9 

 

$

12 

 

$

126 

 

$

(21)

 

$

126 

Gas

 

- 

 

 

2 

 

 

- 

 

 

(1)

 

 

1 

TOTAL LIABILITIES

$

9 

 

$

14 

 

$

126 

 

$

(22)

 

$

127 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1) Includes the effect of the contractual ability to settle contracts under master netting agreements and margin cash collateral.

(2) Represents amount before deducting $333$440 million, primarily related to deferred taxes on appreciation of investment value.


Valuation Techniques


The following describes the valuation techniques used to measure the fair value of the assets and liabilities shown in the tables above.  There are no restrictions on the terms and conditions upon which the investments may be redeemed.  Transfers between levels in the fair value hierarchy are recognized as of the end of the reporting period.  There were no material transfers between any levels for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and 2016.

2017.

31



Trust Assets


Assets Measured at Fair Value


In general, investments held in the trusts are exposed to various risks, such as interest rate, credit, and market volatility risks. Nuclear decommissioning trust assets and other trust assets are composed primarily of equity and fixed-income securities and also include short-term investments that are money market funds valued at Level 1.


Global equity securities primarily include investments in common stock that are valued based on quoted prices in active markets and are classified as Level 1.




Fixed-income securities are primarily composed of U.S. government and agency securities, municipal securities, and other fixed-income securities, including corporate debt securities.  U.S. government and agency securities primarily consist of U.S. Treasury securities that are classified as Level 1 because the fair value is determined by observable market prices in active markets.  A market approach is generally used to estimate the fair value of fixed-income securities classified as Level 2 using evaluated pricing data such as broker quotes, for similar securities adjusted for observable differences.  Significant inputs used in the valuation model generally include benchmark yield curves and issuer spreads.  The external credit ratings, coupon rate, and maturity of each security are considered in the valuation model, as applicable.


Assets Measured at NAV Using Practical Expedient


Investments in the nuclear decommissioning trusts and the long-term disability trust that are measured at fair value using the NAV per share practical expedient have not been classified in the fair value hierarchy tables above.  The fair value amounts are included in the tables above in order to reconcile to the amounts presented in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.  These investments include commingled funds that are composed of equity securities traded publicly on exchanges as well as fixed-income securities that are composed primarily of U.S. government securities and asset-backed securities. 


Price Risk Management Instruments


Price risk management instruments include physical and financial derivative contracts, such as power purchase agreements, forwards, futures, swaps, options, and CRRs that are traded either on an exchange or over-the-counter. 


Power purchase agreements, forwards, and swaps are valued using a discounted cash flow model.  Exchange-traded futures that are valued using observable market forward prices for the underlying commodity are classified as Level 1.  Over-the-counter forwards and swaps that are identical to exchange-traded futures, or are valued using forward prices from broker quotes that are corroborated with market data are classified as Level 2.  Exchange-traded options are valued using observable market data and market-corroborated data and are classified as Level 2. 


Long-dated power purchase agreements that are valued using significant unobservable data are classified as Level 3.  These Level 3 contracts are valued using either estimated basis adjustments from liquid trading points or techniques, including extrapolation from observable prices, when a contract term extends beyond a period for which market data is available.  Market and credit risk management utilizes models to derive pricing inputs for the valuation of the Utility’s Level 3 instruments using pricing inputs from brokers and historical data.


The Utility holds CRRs to hedge the financial risk of CAISO-imposed congestion charges in the day-ahead market.  Limited market data is available in the CAISO auction and between auction dates; therefore, the Utility utilizes historical prices to forecast forward prices.  CRRs are classified as Level 3.


Level 3 Measurements and Sensitivity Analysis


The Utility’s market and credit risk management function, which reports to PG&E Corporation’s Chief Financial Officer, is responsible for determining the fair value of the Utility’s price risk management derivatives.  The Utility’s finance and risk management functions collaborate to determine the appropriate fair value methodologies and classification for each derivative.  Inputs used and the fair value of Level 3 instruments are reviewed period-over-period and compared with market conditions to determine reasonableness.


Significant increases or decreases in any of those inputs would result in a significantly higher or lower fair value, respectively.  All reasonable costs related to Level 3 instruments are expected to be recoverable through customer rates; therefore, there is no impact to net income resulting from changes in the fair value of these instruments.  (See Note 7 above.)
  Fair Value at      
(in millions) June 30, 2018      
Fair Value Measurement Assets Liabilities Valuation
Technique
 Unobservable
Input
 
Range (1)
Congestion revenue rights $113
 $32
 Market approach CRR auction prices $ (18.61) - 32.26
Power purchase agreements $
 $47
 Discounted cash flow Forward prices $ 18.81 - 38.80
           
(1)

 

 

Fair Value at

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(in millions)

 

At September 30, 2017

 

Valuation

 

Unobservable

 

 

 

Fair Value Measurement

 

Assets

 

Liabilities

 

Technique

 

Input

 

Range (1)

Congestion revenue rights

 

$

153 

 

35 

 

Market approach

 

CRR auction prices

 

$

(11.88) - 6.93

Power purchase agreements

 

$

 

70 

 

Discounted cash flow

 

Forward prices

 

$

18.81 - 38.80

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Represents price per megawatt-hour.




  Fair Value at      
(in millions) December 31, 2017      
Fair Value Measurement Assets Liabilities Valuation Technique Unobservable Input 
Range (1)
Congestion revenue rights $129
 $24
 Market approach CRR auction prices $ (16.03) - 11.99
Power purchase agreements $
 $63
 Discounted cash flow Forward prices $ 18.81 - 38.80
           
(1) Represents price per megawatt-hourmegawatt-hour.

 

 

Fair Value at

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(in millions)

 

At December 31, 2016

 

Valuation

 

Unobservable

 

 

 

Fair Value Measurement

 

Assets

 

Liabilities

 

Technique

 

Input

 

Range (1)

Congestion revenue rights

 

$

181 

 

$

35 

 

Market approach

 

CRR auction prices

 

$

(11.88) - 6.93

Power purchase agreements

 

$

 

$

91 

 

Discounted cash flow

 

Forward prices

 

$

18.07 - 38.80

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1) Represents price per megawatt-hour


Level 3 Reconciliation


The following table presentstables present the reconciliation for Level 3 price risk management instruments for the three and ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and 2016:

 

Price Risk Management Instruments

(in millions)

2017

 

2016

Asset (liability) balance as of July 1

$

48 

 

$

66 

Net realized and unrealized gains:

 

 

 

 

 

Included in regulatory assets and liabilities or balancing accounts (1)

 

 

 

(10)

Asset (liability) balance as of September 30

$

48 

 

$

56 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2017:

 Price Risk Management Instruments
(in millions)2018 2017
Asset (liability) balance as of April 1$40
 $49
Net realized and unrealized gains:   
Included in regulatory assets and liabilities or balancing accounts (1)
(6) (1)
Asset (liability) balance as of June 30$34
 $48
    
(1) The costs related to price risk management activities are fully passed through to customers in rates.  Accordingly, unrealized gains and losses are deferred in regulatory liabilities and assets and net income is not impacted.

 

Price Risk Management Instruments

(in millions)

2017

 

2016

Asset (liability) balance as of January 1

$

55 

 

$

89 

Net realized and unrealized gains:

 

 

 

 

 

Included in regulatory assets and liabilities or balancing accounts (1)

 

(7)

 

 

(33)

Asset (liability) balance as of September 30

$

48 

 

$

56 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Price Risk Management Instruments
(in millions)2018 2017
Asset (liability) balance as of January 1$42
 $55
Net realized and unrealized gains:   
Included in regulatory assets and liabilities or balancing accounts (1)
(8) (7)
Asset (liability) balance as of June 30$34
 $48
    
(1) The costs related to price risk management activities are fully passed through to customers in rates.  Accordingly, unrealized gains and losses are deferred in regulatory liabilities and assets and net income is not impacted.


Financial Instruments


PG&E Corporation and the Utility use the following methods and assumptions in estimating fair value for financial instruments:

  • The the fair values of cash, restricted cash, net accounts receivable, short-term borrowings, accounts payable, customer deposits, and the Utility’s variable rate pollution control bond loan agreements approximate their carrying values at SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and December 31, 2016,2017, as they are short-term in nature or have interest rates that reset daily. 

  • The fair values of the Utility’s fixed-rate senior notes and fixed-rate pollution control bonds and PG&E Corporation’s fixed-rate senior notes were based on quoted market prices at September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016. 

33


The carrying amount and fair value of PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s debt instruments were as follows (the table below excludes financial instruments with carrying values that approximate their fair values):

 

At September 30, 2017

 

At December 31, 2016

(in millions)

Carrying Amount

 

Level 2 Fair Value

 

Carrying Amount

 

Level 2 Fair Value

PG&E Corporation

$

349 

 

$

352 

 

$

348 

 

$

352 

Utility

 

16,211 

 

 

18,672 

 

 

15,813 

 

 

17,790 

Available for Sale

 At June 30, 2018 At December 31, 2017
(in millions)Carrying Amount Level 2 Fair Value Carrying Amount Level 2 Fair Value
PG&E Corporation(1)
$350
 $350
 $350
 $350
Utility16,696
 16,413
 17,090
 19,128
        
(1) On April 26, 2018, PG&E Corporation early redeemed its outstanding $350 million principal amount of 2.40% Senior Note. Also, in April 2018, PG&E Corporation entered into a $350 million floating rate unsecured term loan. For more information, see Note 4.



Nuclear Decommissioning Trust Investments


The following table provides a summary of equity securities and available-for-sale investments:

 

 

 

 

Total

 

 

Total

 

 

 

 

Amortized

 

 

Unrealized

 

 

Unrealized

 

 

Total Fair

(in millions)

Cost

 

 

Gains

 

 

Losses

 

 

Value

As of September 30, 2017

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nuclear decommissioning trusts

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Short-term investments

$

23 

 

$

 

$

 

$

23 

Global equity securities

 

540 

 

 

1,353 

 

 

(2)

 

 

1,891 

Fixed-income securities

 

1,216 

 

 

56 

 

 

(6)

 

 

1,266 

Total (1)

$

1,779 

 

$

1,409 

 

$

(8)

 

$

3,180 

As of December 31, 2016

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nuclear decommissioning trusts

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Short-term investments

$

 

$

 

$

 

$

Global equity securities

 

584 

 

 

1,157 

 

 

(3)

 

 

1,738 

Fixed-income securities

 

1,156 

 

 

48 

 

 

(12)

 

 

1,192 

Total (1)

$

1,749 

 

$

1,205 

 

$

(15)

 

$

2,939 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

debt securities:

(in millions)       
As of June 30, 2018Amortized
Cost
 Total
Unrealized
Gains
 Total
Unrealized
Losses
 Total Fair
Value
Nuclear decommissioning trusts       
Short-term investments$22
 $
 $
 $22
Global equity securities482
 1,412
 (3) 1,891
Fixed-income securities1,338
 36
 (23) 1,351
Total (1)
$1,842
 $1,448
 $(26) $3,264
As of December 31, 2017       
Nuclear decommissioning trusts       
Short-term investments$23
 $
 $
 $23
Global equity securities524
 1,463
 (2) 1,985
Fixed-income securities1,252
 51
 (8) 1,295
Total (1)
$1,799
 $1,514
 $(10) $3,303
        
(1) Represents amounts before deducting $387$436 million and $333$440 million at Septemberfor the periods ended June 30, 20172018 and December 31, 2016,2017, respectively, primarily related to deferred taxes on appreciation of investment value.


The fair value of fixed-income securities by contractual maturity is as follows:

As of

(in millions)

September 30, 2017

Less than 1 year

$

27 

1–5 years

403 

5–10 years

340 

More than 10 years

496 

Total maturities of fixed-income securities

$

1,266

 As of
(in millions)June 30, 2018
Less than 1 year$66
1–5 years405
5–10 years360
More than 10 years520
Total maturities of fixed-income securities$1,351

The following table provides a summary of activity for fixed income and equity securities:

 

Three Months Ended

 

Nine Months Ended

 

September 30,

 

September 30,

 

2017

 

2016

 

 

2017

 

2016

(in millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Proceeds from sales and maturities of nuclear decommissioning 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

trust investments

$

249 

 

$

257 

 

$

1,043 

 

$

1,019 

Gross realized gains on securities held as available-for-sale

 

 

 

 

 

50 

 

 

15 

Gross realized losses on securities held as available-for-sale

 

 

 

(14)

 

 

(8)

 

 

(17)

 Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30,
(in millions)2018 2017 2018 2017
Proceeds from sales and maturities of nuclear decommissioning trust investments$308
 $324
 $802
 $794
Gross realized gains on securities11
 13
 48
 42
Gross realized losses on securities(5) (3) (9) (8)

34



NOTE 9: CONTINGENCIES AND COMMITMENTS


PG&E Corporation and the Utility have significant contingencies arising from their operations, including contingencies related to enforcement and litigation matters and environmental remediation.  A provision for a loss contingency is recorded when it is both probable that a lossliability has been incurred and the amount of the lossliability can be reasonably estimated.  A gain contingencyPG&E Corporation and the Utility evaluate which potential liabilities are probable and the related range of reasonably estimated losses, and record a charge that is recorded in the period inamount within the range that is a better estimate than any other amount or the lower end of the range, if there is no better estimate. The assessment of whether a loss is probable or reasonably possible, and whether the loss or a range of losses is estimable, often involves a series of complex judgments about future events. PG&E Corporation's and Utility's provision for loss and expense excludes anticipated legal costs, which all uncertainties have been resolved.  are expensed as incurred.

The Utility also has substantial financial commitments in connection with agreements entered into to support its operating activities. For more information, see Note 13 “Contingencies and Commitments” of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in the 2016 Form 10-K. 

PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows may be materially affected by the outcome of the following matters.


Enforcement and Litigation Matters

Litigation and Regulatory Citations in Connection


Wildfire-Related Claims

Wildfire-related claims on the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements include amounts associated with the Northern California wildfires and the Butte fire.

For the three and six months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, the Utility’s Condensed Consolidated Income Statements include estimated losses offset by insurance recoveries as follows:
 Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30,
(in millions)2018 2017 2018 2017
Butte fire       
  Insurance recoveries$
 $(46) $(7) $(53)
Total Butte fire
 (46) (7) (53)
Northern California wildfires       
  Claims2,500
 
 2,500
 
  Insurance recoveries(375) 
 (375) 
Total Northern California wildfires2,125
 
 2,125
 
Total wildfire-related claims, net of insurance recoveries$2,125
 $(46) $2,118
 $(53)

At June 30, 2018 and December 31, 2017, the Utility's Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets include estimated losses as follows:
 Balance At
(in millions)June 30, 2018 December 31, 2017
Butte fire$360
 $561
Northern California wildfires2,500
 
Total wildfire-related claims$2,860
 $561

Insurance receivables related to the Northern California wildfires and the Butte fire are included in Other accounts receivable on the Utility's Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. See "Northern California Wildfires" and "Butte Fire" below.



Northern California Wildfires

Beginning on October 8, 2017, multiple wildfires spread through Northern California, including Napa, Sonoma, Butte, Humboldt, Mendocino, Del Norte, Lake, Nevada, and Yuba Counties, as well as in the area surrounding Yuba City. According to the Cal Fire California Statewide Fire Summary dated October 30, 2017, at the peak of the wildfires, there were 21 major wildfires in Northern California that, in total, burned over 245,000 acres and destroyed an estimated 8,900 structures. The wildfires also resulted in 44 fatalities. The Northern California wildfires are under investigation by Cal Fire and the CPUC’s SED. Cal Fire issued its determination on the causes of 16 of the Northern California wildfires and the remaining wildfires remain under Cal Fire’s investigation, including the possible role of the Utility’s power lines and other facilities.

On May 25, 2018, Cal Fire issued a news release announcing its determination on the causes of four of the Northern California wildfires (the La Porte, McCourtney, Lobo and Honey fires located in Butte and Nevada Counties) and issued an investigation report related to the La Porte fire. On June 8, 2018, Cal Fire issued a news release announcing its determination on the causes of 12 additional Northern California wildfires (the Redwood, Sulphur, Cherokee, 37, Blue, Norrbom, Adobe, Partrick, Pythian, Nuns, Pocket and Atlas fires, located in Mendocino, Lake, Butte, Sonoma, Humboldt and Napa counties). Also on June 8, 2018, Cal Fire released its investigation reports related to the Redwood, Cherokee, 37 and Nuns fires. Cal Fire has not yet released its investigation reports related to the McCourtney, Lobo, Honey, Sulphur, Blue, Norrbom, Adobe, Partrick, Pythian, Pocket and Atlas fires and indicated in its news releases that these investigations have been referred to the appropriate county District Attorney’s offices for review “due to evidence of alleged violations of state law.” The timing and outcome for resolution of those referrals are uncertain.

Cal Fire has not issued any news releases or other determinations for the Tubbs, Cascade, Maacama, Pressley and Point wildfires. The timing and outcome of the Cal Fire investigation into the remaining fires also are uncertain.

Further, the SED is conducting investigations to assess the compliance of electric and communication companies’ facilities with applicable rules and regulations in fire-impacted areas. According to information made available by the CPUC, investigation topics include, but are not limited to, maintenance of facilities, vegetation management, and emergency preparedness and response. Various other entities, including fire departments, may also be investigating certain of the fires. It is uncertain when the investigations will be complete and whether the SED will release any preliminary findings before its investigations are complete.

As of July 20, 2018, the Utility had submitted 23 electric incident reports to the CPUC associated with the Northern California wildfires where Cal Fire or the Utility has identified a site as potentially involving the Utility’s facilities in its investigation and the property damage associated with each incident exceeded $50,000. The information contained in these reports is factual and preliminary, and does not reflect a determination of the causes of the fires.

If the Utility’s facilities, such as its electric distribution and transmission lines, are determined to be the substantial cause of one or more fires, and the doctrine of inverse condemnation applies, the Utility could be liable for property damage, business interruption, interest, and attorneys’ fees without having been found negligent, which liability, in the aggregate, could be substantial and have a material adverse effect on PG&E Corporation and the Utility. California courts have imposed liability under the doctrine of inverse condemnation in legal actions brought by property holders against utilities on the grounds that losses borne by the person whose property was damaged through a public use undertaking should be spread across the community that benefited from such undertaking, and based on the assumption that utilities have the ability to recover these costs from their customers. Further, courts could determine that the doctrine of inverse condemnation applies even in the absence of an open CPUC proceeding for cost recovery, or before a potential cost recovery decision is issued by the CPUC. There is no guarantee that the CPUC would authorize cost recovery even if a court decision were to determine that the doctrine of inverse condemnation applies. In addition to such claims for property damage, business interruption, interest, and attorneys’ fees, the Utility could be liable for fire suppression costs, evacuation costs, medical expenses, personal injury damages, and other damages under other theories of liability, including if the Utility were found to have been negligent, which liability, in the aggregate, could be substantial and have a material adverse effect on PG&E Corporation and the Utility. Further, the Utility could be subject to material fines or penalties if the CPUC or any other law enforcement agency brought an enforcement action and determined that the Utility failed to comply with applicable laws and regulations.

Third-Party Claims

As of July 20, 2018, PG&E Corporation and the Utility are aware of approximately 270 complaints on behalf of at least 2,900 plaintiffs related to the Northern California wildfires, six of which seek to be certified as class actions. These cases have been coordinated in the San Francisco Superior Court. The coordinated litigation is in the early stages of discovery.



The litigation pending against PG&E Corporation and the Utility includes claims under multiple theories of liability, including inverse condemnation and negligence. Plaintiffs also seek punitive damages. PG&E Corporation or the Utility also could be the subject of investigations or other actions by the county District Attorneys to whom Cal Fire has referred its investigations into the McCourtney, Lobo, Honey, Sulphur, Blue, Norrbom, Adobe, Partrick, Pythian, Pocket and Atlas fires. Regardless of any determinations of cause by Cal Fire, ultimately PG&E Corporation and the Utility’s liability will be resolved through litigation, regulatory proceedings and any potential enforcement proceedings, which could take a number of years to resolve. The timing and outcome of these and other potential proceedings are uncertain.

PG&E Corporation and the Utility are continuing to review the evidence concerning the causes of the Northern California wildfires. PG&E Corporation and the Utility have not yet had access to all of the evidence collected by Cal Fire as part of its investigation or to the investigation reports for the fires Cal Fire has referred to the county District Attorneys.

In addition, insurance carriers who have made payments to their insureds for property damage arising out of the fires have filed 10 subrogation complaints in the San Francisco County Superior Court. These complaints allege, among other things, negligence, inverse condemnation, trespass and nuisance. The allegations are similar to the ones made by individual plaintiffs. Further, various government entities, including Mendocino, Napa and Sonoma Counties and the cities of Napa and Santa Rosa, have also asserted claims against PG&E Corporation and the Utility based on the damages that these public entities allegedly suffered as a result of the fires. Such alleged damages include, among other things, loss of natural resources, loss of public parks, property damages and fire suppression costs. The causes of action and allegations are similar to the ones made by individual plaintiffs and the insurance carriers. On April 16, 2018, PG&E Corporation and the Utility submitted notices of claims against, among other government entities, Mendocino, Napa and Sonoma Counties, reserving their rights to pursue claims against these entities for contribution and equitable indemnity stemming from these entities’ actions and inactions before and during the Northern California wildfires.

On March 16, 2018, PG&E Corporation and the Utility filed a demurer to the inverse condemnation cause of action in the Northern California wildfires litigation. On May 21, 2018, the court overruled the motion. On July 20, 2018, PG&E Corporation and the Utility filed a writ in the Court of Appeal requesting appellate review of the trial court's decision.

The court set the next case management conference for September 17, 2018.

PG&E Corporation and the Utility expect to be the subject of additional lawsuits in connection with the Northern California wildfires. The wildfire litigation could take a number of years to be resolved because of the complexity of the matters, including the ongoing investigation into the causes of the fires and the growing number of parties and claims involved.

Estimated Losses from Third-Party Claims

Potential liabilities related to the Northern California wildfires depend on various factors, including but not limited to the cause of each fire, contributing causes of the fires (including alternative potential origins, weather- and climate-related issues), the number, size and type of structures damaged or destroyed, the contents of such structures and other personal property damage, the number and types of trees damaged or destroyed, attorneys’ fees for claimants, the nature and extent of any personal injuries, the amount of fire suppression and clean-up costs, other damages the Utility may be responsible for if found negligent, and the amount of any penalties or fines that may be imposed by governmental entities.

In light of the current state of the law on inverse condemnation and the information currently available to the Utility, including, among other things, the Cal Fire determinations of cause, PG&E Corporation and the Utility have determined that it is probable they will incur a loss for claims in connection with 14 of the Northern California wildfires referred to as the La Porte, McCourtney, Lobo, Honey, Redwood, Sulphur, Cherokee, Blue, Pocket and Sonoma/Napa merged fires (which include the Nuns, Norrbom, Adobe, Partrick and Pythian fires), and accordingly PG&E Corporation and the Utility recorded a charge in the amount of $2.5 billion for the quarter ended June 30, 2018.  This charge corresponds to the lower end of the range of PG&E Corporation and the Utility’s reasonably estimated losses, and is subject to change based on additional information. 



PG&E Corporation and the Utility currently believe that it is reasonably possible that the amount of the loss will be greater than the amount accrued but are unable to reasonably estimate the additional loss and the upper end of the range because there are a number of unknown facts and legal considerations that may impact the amount of any potential liability, including the total scope and nature of claims that may be asserted against PG&E Corporation and the Utility. PG&E Corporation and the Utility intend to continue to review the available information and other information as it becomes available, including evidence in Cal Fire’s possession, evidence from or held by other parties, claims that have not yet been submitted, and additional information about the nature and extent of personal and business property damage and losses, the nature, number and severity of personal injuries, and information made available through the discovery process.

The process for estimating losses associated with claims requires management to exercise significant judgment based on a number of assumptions and subjective factors, including but not limited to factors identified above and estimates based on currently available information and prior experience with wildfires. As more information becomes available, management estimates and assumptions regarding the financial impact of the Northern California wildfires may change, which could result in material increases to the loss accrued.

The $2.5 billion charge does not include any amounts for potential penalties or fines that may be imposed by governmental entities on PG&E Corporation or the Utility, or punitive damages, if any. It also does not include any amounts in connection with any of the other Northern California wildfires (including the Atlas, 37, Tubbs, Cascade, Maacama, Pressley and Point fires) because at this time PG&E Corporation and the Utility have not concluded that a loss arising from those fires is probable. However, in the future it is possible that facts could emerge that lead PG&E Corporation and the Utility to believe that a loss is probable, resulting in the accrual of a liability at that time, the amount of which could be significant.

On January 31, 2018, the California Department of Insurance issued a news release announcing an update on property losses in connection with the October and December 2017 wildfires in California, stating that, as of such date, “insurers have received nearly 45,000 insurance claims totaling more than $11.79 billion in losses,” of which approximately $10 billion relates to statewide claims from the Northern California wildfires. The balance relates to claims from the Southern California December 2017 wildfires. That news release reflected insured property losses only. Also, that amount did not account for uninsured losses, interest, attorneys’ fees, fire suppression and clean-up costs, personal injury and wrongful death damages or other costs. If PG&E Corporation and the Utility were to be found liable for certain or all of such other costs and expenses, including the potential liabilities outlined above, the amount of the liability could significantly exceed the approximately $10 billion in estimated insured property losses with respect to the Northern California wildfires.

Loss Recoveries

PG&E Corporation and the Utility have liability insurance from various insurers, which provides coverage for third-party liability attributable to the Northern California wildfires in an aggregate amount of approximately $840 million, subject to an initial self-insured retention of $10 million per occurrence and further retentions of approximately $40 million per occurrence.  In addition, coverage limits within these wildfire insurance policies could result in further material self-insured costs in the event each fire were deemed to be a separate occurrence under the terms of the insurance policies.

PG&E Corporation and the Utility record a receivable for insurance recoveries when it is deemed probable that recovery of a recorded loss will occur. PG&E Corporation and the Utility recorded $375 million for probable insurance recoveries in connection with the Northern California wildfires for the quarter ending June 30, 2018.  This amount reflects an assumption that the cause of each fire is deemed to be a separate occurrence under the insurance policies. The amount of the receivable is subject to change based on additional information. PG&E Corporation and the Utility intend to seek full recovery for all insured losses and believe it is reasonably possible that they will record a receivable for the full amount of the insurance limits in the future. If PG&E Corporation and the Utility are unable to recover the full amount of their insurance, or if insurance is otherwise unavailable, PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows could be materially affected. Even if PG&E Corporation and the Utility were to recover the full amount of their insurance, the potential losses arising out of the Northern California wildfires could significantly exceed the coverage limits of the insurance.

In addition, it could take a number of years before the Utility’s final liability is known and the Utility could apply for recovery of costs in excess of insurance. On June 21, 2018, the CPUC issued a decision granting the Utility's request to establish a WEMA for the purpose of tracking specific incremental wildfire liability costs effective as of July 26, 2017. The decision does not grant the Utility rate recovery of any wildfire-related costs. Any such rate recovery would require CPUC authorization in a separate proceeding. The Utility may be unable to fully recover costs in excess of insurance, if at all, and even if such recovery is possible, it could take a number of years to resolve and a number of years to collect.



At June 30, 2018, the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements include long-term regulatory assets of $69 million, consisting of insurance premium costs that are probable of recovery as a result of the CPUC's June 2018 decision authorizing a WEMA. See Note 3 above. Should PG&E Corporation and the Utility conclude in future periods that recovery of insurance premiums in excess of amounts included in authorized revenue requirements is no longer probable, PG&E Corporation and the Utility will record a charge in the period such conclusion is reached.

Failure to obtain a substantial or full recovery of costs related to the Northern California wildfires or any conclusion that such recovery is no longer probable, could have a material adverse effect on PG&E Corporation's and the Utility's financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, and cash flows. PG&E Corporation and the Utility have considered actions that might be taken to attempt to address liquidity needs of the business in such circumstances, but the inability to recover costs in excess of insurance through increases in rates and by collecting such rates in a timely manner could have a material adverse effect on PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, and cash flows.

Other Northern California Wildfires Litigation

Derivative Litigation

Two derivative lawsuits alleging claims for breach of fiduciary duties and unjust enrichment were filed in the San Francisco County Superior Court on November 16, 2017 and November 20, 2017, respectively, naming as defendants current and certain former members of the Board of Directors and certain current and former officers of PG&E Corporation and the Utility. PG&E Corporation and the Utility were named as nominal defendants. These lawsuits were consolidated by the court on February 14, 2018, and are now denominated In Re California North Bay Fire Derivative Litigation. On April 13, 2018, the plaintiffs filed a consolidated complaint. After the parties reached an agreement regarding a stay of the derivative proceeding pending resolution of the tort actions described above and any regulatory proceeding relating to the Northern California wildfires, on April 24, 2018, the court entered a stipulation and order to stay. The stay is subject to certain conditions regarding discovery. PG&E Corporation and the Utility are unable to predict the timing and outcome of this proceeding.

Securities Class Action Litigation

In June 2018, two purported securities class actions were filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California, naming PG&E Corporation and certain of its current and former officers as defendants, entitled David C. Weston v. PG&E Corporation, et al. and Jon Paul Moretti v. PG&E Corporation, et al., respectively.  The complaints allege material misrepresentations and omissions related to, among other things, vegetation management and transmission line safety in various PG&E Corporation public disclosures. The complaints assert claims under Section 10(b) and Section 20(a) of the federal Securities Exchange Act and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder, and seek unspecified monetary relief, interest, attorneys' fees and other costs. Both complaints identify a proposed class period of April 29, 2015 to June 8, 2018. No date for defendants' response to the complaints has been set. PG&E Corporation and the Utility are unable to predict the timing and outcome of these proceedings. In addition, PG&E Corporation and the Utility anticipate that other similar complaints may be filed in the future. 

Clean-up and Repair Costs

The Utility incurred costs of $274 million for clean-up and repair of the Utility’s facilities (including $116 million in capital expenditures) through June 30, 2018, in connection with these wildfires. While the Utility believes that such costs are recoverable through CEMA, its CEMA requests are subject to CPUC approval. The Utility’s financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, and cash flows could be materially affected if the Utility is unable to recover such costs.

The Utility capitalizes and records as regulatory assets costs that are probable of recovery in rates. At June 30, 2018, the CEMA balance related to the Northern California wildfires was $96 million and reflects an approximately $40 million reduction to the regulatory asset that was recorded in the three months ended June 30, 2018 for costs that are no longer probable of recovery.

Should PG&E Corporation and the Utility conclude that recovery of any clean-up and repair costs included in the CEMA is no longer probable, PG&E Corporation and the Utility will record a charge in the period such conclusion is reached. Failure to obtain a substantial or full recovery of these costs or any conclusion that such recovery is no longer probable, could have a material adverse effect on PG&E Corporation's and the Utility's financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, and cash flows. For more information, see Note 3 above.



Butte Fire


In September 2015, a wildfire (known as the “Butte fire”) ignited and spread in Amador and Calaveras Counties in Northern California. On April 28, 2016, Cal Fire released its report of the investigation of the origin and cause of the wildfire. According to Cal Fire’s report, the fire burned 70,868 acres, resulted in two fatalities, destroyed549 homes, 368 outbuildings and four commercial properties, and damaged 44 structures.  Cal Fire’s report concluded that the wildfire was caused when a gray pine tree contacted the Utility’s electric line, which ignited portions of the tree and determined that the failure by the Utility and/or its vegetation management contractors, ACRT Inc. and Trees, Inc., to identify certain potential hazards during its vegetation management program ultimately led to the failure of the tree.

Third-Party Claims


On May 23, 2016, individual plaintiffs filed a master complaint against the Utility and its two vegetation management contractors in the Superior Court of California, for Sacramento County.County of Sacramento.  Subrogation insurers also filed a separate master complaint on the same date.  The California Judicial Council previously had previously authorized the coordination of all cases in Sacramento County.  As of September 30, 2017, 77July 20, 2018, 81 known complaints have been filed against the Utility and its two vegetation management contractors in the Superior Court of California in the Counties of Calaveras, San Francisco, Sacramento, and Amador.  The complaints involve approximately 3,7703,780 individual plaintiffs representing approximately 2,0802,000 households and their insurance companies.  These complaints are part of or are in the process of being added to the two master complaints.  Plaintiffs seek to recover damages and other costs, principally based on the doctrine of inverse condemnation and negligence theoriestheory of liability.  Plaintiffs also seek punitive damages.  Several plaintiffs have dismissed the Utility's two vegetation management contractors from their complaints. The number of individual complaints and plaintiffs may still increase in the future.future, because the statute of limitations for property damage in connection with the Butte fire has not yet expired. The statute of limitations for personal injury has expired.  The Utility continues mediatingto mediate and settlingsettle cases.

In addition, on April 13, 2017, Cal Fire filed a complaint with the Superior Court of the State of California, County of Calaveras, seeking to recover $87 million for its costs incurred on the theory that the Utility and its vegetation management contractors were negligent, among other claims. 

Also, in May 2017, the OES indicated that it intends to bring a claim against the Utility that it estimates in the approximate amount of $190 million.  This claim would include costs incurred by the OES for tree and debris removal, infrastructure damage, erosion control, and other claims related to the Butte fire. Also, in June 2017, the County of Calaveras indicated that it intends to bring a claim against the Utility that it estimates in the approximate amount of $85 million.  This claim would include costs that the County of Calaveras incurred or expects to incur for infrastructure damage, erosion control, and other costs related to the Butte fire. 


On April 28, 2017, the Utility moved for summary adjudication on plaintiffs’ claims for punitive damages.  On August 10, 2017, the Courtcourt denied the Utility’s motion on the grounds that plaintiffs might be able to show conscious disregard for public safety based on the fact that the Utility relied on contractors to fulfill their contractual obligation to hire and train qualified employees.  On August 16, 2017, the Utility filed a writ with the Court of AppealsAppeal of the State of California, Third Appellate District, challenging this novel theory ofthe trial court's ruling on punitive damages, liability.  The Court of Appealswhich was accepted the writ on September 15, 20172017. After briefing, the Court of Appeal heard oral argument on June 22, 2018 and orderedgranted the Utility's writ petition on July 2, 2018, directing the trial court and plaintiffs to show cause why the relief requested byenter summary adjudication in favor of the Utility should not be granted.  Briefing on the writ should be completed by early 2018.

In the third quarter of 2017, the Utility reached settlements withand to deny plaintiffs' claim for punitive damages under California Civil Code Section 3294. On July 17, 2018, plaintiffs in the “preference” trial involving six households and with the plaintiffs in the representative trial that had been scheduled for August 2017 and October 2017, respectively.  While there are no trials related to the Butte fire currently scheduled, one plaintiff has moved for a preference trial involving one household.  The motion is set for hearing on December 1, 2017.

On October 25, 2017, the Utility filed a motion to stay the trial court proceedings pending a decision bypetition for rehearing in the Court of AppealsAppeal, which must be ruled upon by August 1, 2018. Plaintiffs have also indicated that, if the petition is denied, they intend to ask the California Supreme Court to review the Court of Appeal's decision. Neither the trial nor appellate courts addressed whether plaintiffs can seek punitive damages at trial under Public Utilities Code Section 2106. Based on the pending writJuly 2, 2018 Court of mandate regarding punitive damages.  A hearing on the stay motion is calendared for December 1, 2017.

Estimated Losses from Third-Party Claims

In connection with this matter,Appeal's ruling, the Utility may be liable for propertybelieves a loss related to punitive damages interest, and attorneys’ fees without having been found negligent, through the theory of inverse condemnation.  is remote.


On June 22, 2017, the Superior Court for theof California, County of Sacramento ruled on a motion of several plaintiffs and found that the doctrine of inverse condemnation applies to the Utility is liable forwith respect to the Butte fire. The court held, among other things, that the Utility had failed to put forth any evidence to support its contention that the CPUC would not allow the Utility to pass on its inverse condemnation.condemnation liability through rate increases. While the ruling is binding only between the Utility and the plaintiffs in the coordination proceeding at the time of the ruling, others could file lawsuits and make similar claims. On January 4, 2018, the Utility filed with the court a renewed motion for a legal determination of inverse condemnation liability, citing the November 30, 2017 CPUC decision denying the San Diego Gas & Electric Company application to recover wildfire costs in excess of insurance, and the CPUC declaration that it will not automatically allow utilities to spread inverse condemnation losses through rate increases.

On May 1, 2018, the Superior Court of California, County of Sacramento issued its ruling on the Utility's renewed motion in which the court affirmed, with minor changes, its tentative ruling dated April 25, 2018. The court determined that it is bound by earlier holdings of two appellate courts decisions, Barham and Pacific Bell. Further, the court stated that the Utility's constitutional arguments should be made to the appellate courts and suggested that, to the extent the Utility raises the public policy implications of the November 30, 2017 CPUC decision in the San Diego Gas & Electric Company cost recovery proceeding, these arguments should be addressed to the Legislature or CPUC. The Utility filed a writ with the Court of Appeal seeking immediate review of the court's decision. On June 18, 2018, after the writ was summarily denied, the Utility filed a Petition for Review with the California Supreme Court, on which a decision should be received by the end of 2018. On July 19, 2018, the court set a trial for some individual plaintiffs to begin on January 14, 2019.



In addition to the coordinated plaintiffs, Cal Fire, the California Office of Emergency Services (OES) and the County of Calaveras have brought suit or indicated that they intend to do so. On April 13, 2017, Cal Fire filed a complaint with the Superior Court of California, County of Calaveras, seeking to recover over $87 million for its costs incurred on the theory that the Utility and its vegetation management contractors were negligent, or violated the law, among other claims.  On July 31, 2017, Cal Fire dismissed its complaint against Trees, Inc., one of the Utility's vegetation contractors. Cal Fire has requested that a trial of its claims be set for summer 2019, following any trial of the claims of the individual plaintiffs. The Utility and Cal Fire are currently engaged in a mediation process.

Also, on February 20, 2018, the County of Calaveras filed suit against the Utility and the Utility’s vegetation management contractors to recover damages and other costs, based on the doctrine of inverse condemnation and negligence theory of liability. The County also seeks punitive damages. On March 2, 2018, the County served a mediation demand seeking in excess of $167 million, having previously indicated that it intended to bring an approximately $85 million claim against the Utility. This claim included costs that the County of Calaveras allegedly incurred or expected to incur for infrastructure damage, erosion control, and other related costs. The Utility and the County of Calaveras currently are engaged in a mediation process. The County has also requested a trial to take place no later than summer 2019. Based on statements by the court, the Utility anticipates that trial would take place, if at all, after a trial of individual plaintiffs' claims and the separate trial of Cal Fire claims.

Further, in May 2017, the OES indicated that it intends to bring a claim against the Utility that it estimates to be approximately $190 million.  This claim would include costs incurred by the OES for tree and debris removal, infrastructure damage, erosion control, and other claims related to the Butte fire. The Utility has not received any information or documentation from OES after its May 2017 statement.

Estimated Losses from Third-Party Claims

In connection with this matter, the Utility may be liable for property damages, business interruption, interest, and attorneys’ fees without having been found negligent, through the doctrine of inverse condemnation. 

In addition, the Utility may be liable for fire suppression costs, personal injury damages, and other damages if the Utility wereis found to have been negligent.  While the Utility believes it was not negligent, there can be no assurance that a court or jury would agree with the Utility. 


The Utility currently believes that it is probable that it will incur aUtility's assessment of the estimated loss of at least $1.1 billion, increased from the $750 million previously estimated as of December 31, 2016, in connection withrelated to the Butte fire.  The Utility’s updated estimate resulted primarily from an increase in the number of claims filed against the Utility and experience to date in resolving claims.  This amountfire is based on updated assumptions about the number, size, and type of structures damaged or destroyed, the contents of such structures, the number and types of trees damaged or destroyed, as well as assumptions about personal injury damages, attorneys’ fees, fire suppression costs, and certain other damages, but does notdamages.

The Utility has determined that it is probable that it will incur a loss of at least $1.1 billion in connection with the Butte fire.  The Utility estimates it is reasonably possible that it may incur an additional $200 million, for a total loss of $1.3 billion. While these amounts include punitive damages for which the Utility could be liable.  In addition, while this amount includes the Utility’sUtility's early assumptions about fire suppression costs (including its assessment of the Cal Fire loss), it doesand the County of Calaveras claim, they do not include any significant portion of the estimated claimsclaim from the OES and the County of Calaveras.OES. The Utility still does not have sufficient information to reasonably estimate any liability it may have for thesethat additional claims.

The Utility currently is unable to reasonably estimate the upper end of the range of losses because it has insufficient information on the claims of over 1,000 households, including all of the recently filed claims, as well as the claims from the OES and the County of Calaveras. 
The process for estimating costs associated with claims relating to the Butte fire requires management to exercise significant judgment based on a number of assumptions and subjective factors.  As more information becomes known, including additional discovery from the plaintiffs, results from the ongoing mediation and settlement process, review of the potential claimsclaim from the OES, and the County of Calaveras, outcomes of future court or jury decisions, and information about damages, including punitive damages, thatfor which the Utility could be liable, for, management estimates and assumptions regarding the financial impact of the Butte fire may result in material increases to the loss accrued.



The following table presents changes in the third-party claims liability since December 31, 2015.  The balance for the third-party claims liability is included in Other current liabilitiesWildfire-related claims in PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets:

Loss Accrual (in millions)  
Balance at December 31, 2015 $
Accrued losses 750
Payments (1)
 (60)
Balance at December 31, 2016 690
Accrued losses 350
Payments (1)
 (479)
Balance at December 31, 2017 561
Accrued losses 
Payments (1)
 (201)
Balance at June 30, 2018 $360
   
Loss Accrual  (in millions)

Balance at December 31, 2015

$

-

Accrued losses

750

Payments(1)

(60)

Balance at December 31, 2016

$

690

Accrued losses

350

Payments(1)

(338)

Balance at September 30, 2017

$

702

(1) As of SeptemberJune 30, 20172018, the Utility entered into settlement agreements in connection with the Butte fire corresponding to approximately $515$783 million, of which $398$740 million has been paid by the Utility.


In addition to the amounts reflected in the table above, the Utility has incurred cumulative legal expenses of $72$109 million in connection with the Butte fire.  For the three and ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, the Utility has incurred legal expenses in connection with the Butte fire of $18$10 million and $45$22 million, respectively.

Loss Recoveries

The Utility has liability insurance from various insurers, which provides coverage for third-party liability attributable to the Butte fire in an aggregate amount of $922 million.  The Utility records insurance recoveries when it is deemed probable that a recovery will occur and the Utility can reasonably estimate the amount or its range.  Through September 30, 2017, the Utility recorded $922 million for probable insurance recoveries in connection with losses related to the Butte fire.  While the Utility plans to seek recovery of all insured losses, it is unable to predict the ultimate amount and timing of such insurance recoveries.  In addition, in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017, the Utility received $21 million and $53 million, respectively, of reimbursements from the insurance policies of one of its vegetation management contractors (excluded from the table below).  Recoveries of additional amounts under the insurance policies of the Utility’s vegetation management contractors, including policies where the Utility is listed as an additional insured, are uncertain.

The following table presents changes in the insurance receivable since December 31, 2015.  The balance for the insurance receivable is included in Other accounts receivable in PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets:

Insurance Receivable (in millions)

Balance at December 31, 2015

$

-

Accrued insurance recoveries

625

Reimbursements

(50)

Balance at December 31, 2016

$

575

Accrued insurance recoveries

297

Reimbursements

(131)

Balance at September 30, 2017

$

741


If the Utility records losses in connection with claims relating to the Butte fire that materially exceed the amount the Utility accrued for these liabilities, PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows could be materially affected in the reporting periods during which additional charges are recorded.

Loss Recoveries

The Utility has liability insurance from various insurers, that provides coverage for third-party liability attributable to the Butte fire in an aggregate amount of $922 million.  The Utility records insurance recoveries when it is deemed probable that a recovery will occur and the Utility can reasonably estimate the amount or its range.  Through June 30, 2018, the Utility recorded depending on whether$922 million for probable insurance recoveries in connection with losses related to the Butte fire.  While the Utility plans to seek recovery of all insured losses, it is unable to predict the ultimate amount and timing of such insurance recoveries.  In addition, the Utility has received $60 million in cumulative reimbursements from the insurance policies of its vegetation management contractors (excluded from the table below), including $7 million received in the six months ended June 30, 2018. Recoveries of additional amounts under the insurance policies of the Utility’s vegetation management contractors, including policies where the Utility is able to record or collectlisted as an additional insured, are uncertain.



The following table presents changes in the insurance recoveriesreceivable since December 31, 2015.  The balance for the insurance receivable is included in amounts sufficient to offset suchOther accounts receivable in PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets:
Insurance Receivable (in millions)  
Balance at December 31, 2015 $
Accrued insurance recoveries 625
Reimbursements (50)
Balance at December 31, 2016 575
Accrued insurance recoveries 297
Reimbursements (276)
Balance at December 31, 2017 596
Accrued insurance recoveries 
Reimbursements (231)
Balance at June 30, 2018 $365

In July 2018, the Utility received an additional accruals.

$100 million in insurance reimbursements.


Regulatory Citations


On April 25, 2017, the SED issued two citations to the Utility in connection with the Butte fire, totaling $8.3 million. The SED’sSED's investigation found that neither the Utility nor its vegetation management contractors took appropriate steps to prevent thea gray pine tree from leaning and contacting the Utility’sUtility's electric line, which created an unsafe and dangerous condition that resulted in that tree leaning and making contact with the electric line, thus causing a fire. The Utility paid the citations in June 2017.

“Ghost Ship” Fire

On December 2, 2016, 36 people died in a fire that occurred in the “Ghost Ship” warehouse in Oakland, California, during a music event.  The families of 34 people who died in the fire have filed lawsuits against the property owner, the master tenant and neighboring tenants, and others, alleging defective electrical wiring and violations of fire safety codes. 

On May 16, 2017, a master complaint was filed, and added both PG&E Corporation and the Utility as defendants.  The master complaint alleges that the Utility violated the California Labor Code and various electric rules in that it (1) should have inspected the premises to evaluate potential workplace hazards to Utility employees installing/maintaining its meters there, (2) should not have permitted sub-meters in the buildingwithout admitting liability or should have inspected those sub-meters, and (3) should have known that the building’s sub-meters and electrical system as a whole were dangerous and should have terminated service.  The Utility filed a demurrer to the master complaint on June 30, 2017, on multiple grounds, including that the Utility has no duty to inspect its customers’ electrical equipment.  On September 12, 2017, Alameda County Superior Court (the “court”) denied the Utility’s demurrer and on October 6, 2017, the Utility filed its answeragreeing with the court. The governmental entities (City of Oakland, County of Alameda and State of California) filed demurrers on September 12, 2017.  On October 9, 2017, the plaintiffs dismissed, without prejudice, the State of California as a party to the case.  On October 13, 2017, the plaintiffs filed opposition briefs to the demurrers filed by the City of Oakland and the County of Alameda.  A hearing is scheduled for November 7, 2017.

findings.
Enforcement Matters

36



Several investigations regarding the origin and cause of the fire were conducted, including by the City of Oakland and the County of Alameda, the CPUC, and a third-party consulting and engineering firm.  In June 2017, the City of Oakland released Oakland Fire Department’s report of the investigation stating that the cause of the fire was undetermined.  The other investigations remain underway.

PG&E Corporation and the Utility are uncertain when and how the Ghost Ship Fire lawsuit will be resolved and believe there is a remote possibility a material loss will occur.

Valero Refinery Outage

On June 30, 2017, Valero Energy Corp. filed a lawsuit against the Utility after an electric outage occurred in its Benicia refinery in May 2017. Valero’s complaint alleges causes of action for breach of contract, breach of implied contract, breach of implied warranty, breach of covenant of good faith and fair dealing, negligence and gross negligence and seeks $75 million in damages from the Utility, resulting from refinery equipment damage, lost revenue and punitive damages. The Utility retained a third-party consulting and engineering firm to perform a causal evaluation of this outage. On September 11, 2017, Valero filed a first amended complaint removing its gross negligence and punitive damage claims.  On October 23, 2017, the Utility filed with the court its response to Valero’s amended complaint.  On October 27, 2017, Valero served the Utility with initial disclosures stating Valero’s total claim is $114 million in damages associated with equipment damage and lost profits.

PG&E Corporation and the Utility believe it is reasonably possible that they will incur a material loss as a result of this lawsuit, but is unable to reasonably estimate the amount or range because it is in early stages of litigation. 

Federal Investigations

In 2014, both the U.S. Attorney's Office in San Francisco and the California Attorney General's office opened investigations

into matters related to allegedly improper communication between the Utility and CPUC personnel. The Utility has cooperated
with those investigations. In addition, in October 2016, the Utility received a grand jury subpoena and letter from the U.S. Attorney for the Northern DistrictThe status of California advising that the Utilitythese investigations is a target of a federal investigation regarding possible criminal violations of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and conspiracy to violate the act.  The investigation involves a removal by the Utility of a hazardous tree that contained an osprey nest and egg in Inverness, California, on March 18, 2016.uncertain. The Utility is cooperating with this investigation.  It is uncertainunable to predict whether any charges will be brought against the Utility as a result of these investigations.

CPUC Matters




Regulatory Proceedings

Order Instituting an Investigation into Compliance with Ex Parte Communication Rules


On September 1, 2017,April 26, 2018, the assigned ALJCPUC approved the revised proposed decision issued a PD in this proceedingon April 3, 2018, adopting with one modification, the settlement agreement jointly submitted to the CPUC on March 28, 2017, as modified (the "settlement agreement") by the Utility, the Cities of San Bruno and San Carlos, the ORA, the SED, and TURN.

If adopted, the PD would increase the payment to the California General Fund from $1 million to $12 million resulting


The decision results in a total penalty of $97.5 million comprised of: (1) a $12 million payment to the California General Fund, (2) forgoing collection of $63.5 million of GT&S revenue requirements for the years 2018 ($31.75 million) and 2019 ($31.75 million), (3) a $10 million one-time revenue requirement adjustment to be amortized in equivalent annual amounts over the Utility’s next GRC cycle (i.e., the GRC following the 20172020 GRC), and (4) compensation payments to the Cities of San Bruno and San Carlos in a total amount of $12 million ($6 million to each city).  In addition, the settlement agreement provides for certain non-financial remedies, including enhanced noticing obligations between the Utility and CPUC decision-makers, as well as certification of employee training on the CPUC ex parte communication rules.  Under the terms of the settlement agreement, customers will bear no costs associated with the financial remedies set forth above.

On September 21, 2017, the Utility submitted


The CPUC also ordered a motionsecond phase in this proceeding to the CPUC accepting the proposed modificationdetermine if any of the settlement agreement to increase the Utility’s payment to the California General Fund from $1 million to $12 million. Further, the Utility also reported that it has identified several communications that appear to raise issues similar to other communications that are part of this proceeding.


On November 1, 2017, the Utility filed a status report advising the CPUC that the Utility and the parties to the settlement agreement were unable to reach an agreement with respect to how to proceed regardingadditional communications that the Utility reported to the CPUC on September 21, 2017.  Also on November 1, 2017, violate the non-UtilityCPUC ex parte rules. On May 22, 2018, the assigned administrative law judge issued a ruling requiring the parties to meet and confer to determine if an agreement can be reached on the settlement requested that the CPUC approve the settlement, as modifiedissues identified by the PD, and openadministrative law judge. On June 15, 2018, the parties submitted a second phase ofjoint status report requesting that further procedural steps be suspended in order to allow the OIIparties to investigate and consider appropriate sanctions for the new communications reported by the Utility on September 21, 2017, and others that may be discovered.

continue discussions. The statutory deadline for this proceeding previously was extendedparties expect to December 29, 2017.submit their next status report no later than July 31, 2018. The Utility is unable to predict the timing and outcome of the second phase in this proceeding.


As a result of the decision, on May 17, 2018, the Utility made a $12 million payment to the California General Fund and $6 million payments to each of the Cities of San Bruno and San Carlos. At SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets include a $24$16 million accrual for a portion of the amounts payable to the California General Fund and the Cities of San Bruno and San Carlos.2018 GT&S revenue requirement reduction. In accordance with accounting rules, adjustments related to revenue requirements would beare recorded in the periods in which they are incurred.


For more information about the proceeding, see Note 13 “Contingencies and Commitments” of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8 of the 20162017 Form 10-K.

Order Instituting an Investigation into the Utility’s Safety Culture

On August 27, 2015, the CPUC began a formal investigation into whether the organizational culture and governance of PG&E Corporation and the Utility prioritize safety and adequately direct resources to promote accountability and achieve safety goals and standards.  The CPUC directed the SED to evaluate the Utility’s and PG&E Corporation’s organizational culture, governance, policies, practices, and accountability metrics in relation to the Utility’s record of operations, including its record of safety incidents.  The CPUC authorized the SED to engage a consultant to assist in the SED’s investigation and the preparation of a report containing the SED’s assessment. 

On May 8, 2017, the CPUC President released the consultant’s report, accompanied by a scoping memo and ruling.  The scoping memo establishes a second phase in this OII in which the CPUC will evaluate the safety recommendations of the consultant that may lead to the CPUC’s adoption of the recommendations in the report, in whole or in part.  This phase of the proceeding will also consider all necessary measures, including, but not limited to, a reduction of the Utility’s return on equity until any recommendations adopted by the CPUC are implemented.  The Utility plans to adopt and implement the vast majority of the consultant’s recommendations by the middle of 2018.  A workshop took place in September 2017 at which the consultant presented its report and answered stakeholders’ questions.  The Utility’s testimony is expected to be filed with the CPUC in the fourth quarter of 2017 with other parties’ testimony and evidentiary hearings expected in the first quarter of 2018.

PG&E Corporation and the Utility are unable to predict the outcome of this proceeding, including whether additional fines, penalties, or other ratemaking tools will ultimately be adopted by the CPUC, and whether the CPUC will require that a portion of return on equity for the Utility be dependent on making safety progress as the CPUC may define in this proceeding. 


Natural Gas Transmission Pipeline Rights-of-Way


In 2012, the Utility notified the CPUC and the SED that the Utility planned to complete a system-wide survey of its transmission pipelines in an effort to address a self-reported violation whereby the Utility did not properly identify encroachments (such as building structures and vegetation overgrowth) on the Utility’s pipeline rights-of-way.  The Utility also submitted a proposed compliance plan that set forth the scope and timing of remedial work to remove identified encroachments over a multi-year period and to pay penalties if the proposed milestones were not met.  In March 2014, the Utility informed the SED that the survey had been completed and that remediation work, including removal of the encroachments, was expected to continue for several years. The SED has not addressed the Utility’s proposed compliance plan, and it is reasonably possible that the SED will impose fines on the Utility in the future based on the Utility’s failure to continuously survey its system and remove encroachments.  The Utility is unable to reasonably estimate the amount or range of future charges that could be incurred given the SED’s wide discretion and the number of factors that can be considered in determining penalties.


Other Matters


Potential Safety Citations

The CPUC has delegated authority to the SED to issue citations and impose penalties for violations identified through audits, investigations, or self-reports.  There are a number of audit findings, as well as other potential violations identified through various investigations and the Utility’s self-reported non-compliance with laws and regulations, on which the SED has yet to act.  This includes the Utility’s February 2017 self-report related to customer service representatives who handle gas emergency calls that was not timely submitted to the CPUC.  The Utility believes it is probable that the SED will impose penalties or take other enforcement action with respect to some or all of these violations.  The Utility is unable to reasonably estimate the amount or range of future charges that could be incurred for fines imposed by the SED with respect to these matters given the wide discretion the SED and other CPUC staff have in determining whether to bring enforcement action and the number of factors that can be considered in determining the amount of fines. 

The SED has discretion whether to issue a penalty for each violation, but if it assesses a penalty for a violation, it is required to impose the maximum statutory penalty of $50,000, with an administrative limit of $8 million per citation issued.  The SED may, at its discretion, impose penalties on a daily basis, or on less than a daily basis, for violations that continued for more than one day.  The SED also has wide discretion to determine the amount of penalties based on the totality of the circumstances, including such factors as the gravity of the violations; the type of harm caused by the violations and the number of persons affected; and the good faith of the entity charged in attempting to achieve compliance, after notification of a violation.  The SED also is required to consider the appropriateness of the amount of the penalty to the size of the entity charged.  The SED historically has exercised broad discretion in determining whether violations are continuing and the amount of penalties to be imposed.  The CPUC can also issue an OII and possible additional fines even after the SED has issued a citation.  The SED has imposed fines on the Utility ranging from $50,000 to $16.8 million for violations of electric and natural gas laws and regulations.

On January 12, 2017, a residential structure fire occurred in Yuba City, California resulting in the collapse of the house and injuries to two persons inside the house. The CPUC, a third-party engineering firm engaged by the Utility, and local fire and police officials have investigated the incident. Following SED’s investigation which included a review of the third-party engineering firm’s report, on October 20, 2017, the SED issued a notice of probable violations against the Utility. The SED found two violations, for which the SED could issue a penalty of up to $8 million per violation.  The Utility may incur material costs, including as a result of these investigations or any proceedings that could be commenced in connection with this incident. 

Other Matters

PG&E Corporation and the Utility are subject to various claims, lawsuits, and regulatory proceedings that separately are not considered material.  Accruals for contingencies related to such matters (excluding amounts related to the contingencies discussed above under “Enforcement and Litigation Matters”) totaled $39$100 million at SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, and $45$86 million at December 31, 2016.2017.  These amounts are included in Other current liabilities in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.  The resolution of these matters is not expected to have a material impact on PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.




Disallowance of Plant Costs

In May 2017,


2015 GT&S Rate Case Capital Disallowance

On June 23, 2016, the CPUC approved a final phase one decision in the Utility’s 2015 GT&S rate case. The phase one decision excluded from rate base $696 million of capital spending in 2011 through 2014 in excess of the amount adopted in the prior GT&S rate case. The decision permanently disallowed $120 million of that amount and ordered that the remaining $576 million be subject to an audit overseen by the CPUC staff, with the possibility that the Utility filedmay seek recovery in a settlement agreement with the CPUC related to the recovery of license renewal costs and cancelled project costs within its pending application to retire Diablo Canyon Power Plant.  The settlement agreement allows for recovery from customers of $18.6 million of the total license renewal project cost of $53 million evenly over an 8-year period beginning January 1, 2018.  Related to cancelled project costs, the settlement allows for recovery from customers of 100% of the direct costs incurred prior to June 30, 2016 and 25% recovery of direct costs incurred after June 30, 2016.  During the nine months ended September 30, 2017, the Utility incurredfuture proceeding. Additional charges of $47 million related to settlement agreement, of which $24 million is for cancelled projects and $23 million is for disallowed license renewal costs.

In addition, the Utility is subject to various cost caps within its rate cases that increase the risk of overspend throughout the rate case cycles.  Charges may be required in the future based on the Utility’s ability to manage its capital spending and on the outcome of the CPUC’s audit of 2011 through 2014 capital spending related to its 2015 GT&S rate case.  PG&E Corporation and the Utility would record a charge when it is both probable that costs incurred or projected to be incurred for recently completed plant will not be recoverable through rates and the amount of disallowance can be reasonably estimated.spending. Capital disallowances are reflected in operating and maintenance expenses in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income. For more information, see Note 13 “Contingencies and Commitments” of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8 of the 20162017 Form 10-K.



Environmental Remediation Contingencies


The Utility’s environmental remediation liability is primarily included in non-current liabilities on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets and is composedcomprised of the following:

 

Balance at

 

September 30,

 

December 31,

(in millions)

2017

 

2016

Topock natural gas compressor station (1)

$

310 

 

$ 

299 

Hinkley natural gas compressor station (1)

 

147 

 

 

135 

Former manufactured gas plant sites owned by the Utility or third parties

 

306 

 

 

285 

Utility-owned generation facilities (other than fossil fuel-fired),

  other facilities, and third-party disposal sites

 

124 

 

 

131 

Fossil fuel-fired generation facilities and sites

 

131 

 

 

108 

Total environmental remediation liability

$

1,018 

 

$ 

958 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Balance at
 June 30, December 31,
(in millions)2018 2017
Topock natural gas compressor station$339
 $334
Hinkley natural gas compressor station153
 147
Former manufactured gas plant sites owned by the Utility or third parties (1)
350
 320
Utility-owned generation facilities (other than fossil fuel-fired),
other facilities, and third-party disposal sites
(2)
112
 115
Fossil fuel-fired generation facilities and sites (3)
142
 123
Total environmental remediation liability$1,096
 $1,039
    
(1) See “Natural Gas Compressor Station Sites” below.Primarily driven by the following sites: Vallejo, San Francisco East Harbor, Napa, and San Francisco North Beach.

(2) Primarily driven by the Shell Pond site.
(3) Primarily driven by the San Francisco Potrero Power Plant.

The Utility’s gas compressor stations, former manufactured gas plant sites, power plant sites, gas gathering sites, and sites used by the Utility for the storage, recycling, and disposal of potentially hazardous substances are subject to requirements issued by the Environmental Protection Agency under the federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act and/or other federal and state hazardous waste laws.  The Utility has a comprehensive program in place designed to comply with federal, state, and local laws and regulations related to hazardous materials, waste, remediation activities, and other environmental requirements. The Utility assesses and monitors the environmental requirements on an ongoing basis, measures that may be necessary to comply with these laws and regulations and implements changes to its program as deemed appropriate. The Utility’s remediation activities are overseen by the DTSC, several California regional water quality control boards, and various other federal, state, and local agencies.

The Utility records an environmental remediation liability when site assessments indicate remediation is probable and the Utility can reasonably estimate the loss or a range of possible losses.  Key factors in estimated costs include site feasibility studies and investigations, applicable remediation actions, operations and maintenance activities, post remediation monitoring, and the cost of technologies that are expected to be approved to remediate the site. 


The Utility’s environmental remediation liability at SeptemberJune 30, 20172018, reflects its best estimate of probable future costs associated with itsfor remediation plans.based on the current assessment data and regulatory obligations. Future costs will depend on many factors, including the extent of work necessary to implement final remediation plans and the Utility's time frame for remediation.  Future changesThe Utility may incur actual costs in cost estimatesthe future that are materially different than this estimate and the assumptions on which they are based maysuch costs could have a material impact on the Utility’s futureresults of operations, financial condition, and cash flows.

flows during the period in which they are recorded. At SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, the Utility expected to recover $698$751 million of its environmental remediation liability for certain sites through various ratemaking mechanisms authorized by the CPUC. Some of the Utility’s environmental remediation costs, such as the remediation costs associated with the Hinkley natural gas compressor site, fossil fuel-fired generation sites, and certain facilities formerly owned by the Utility, are not recoverable through rates.


For more information, see Note 13 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8 of the 20162017 Form 10-K.


Natural Gas Compressor Station Sites


The Utility is legally responsible for remediating groundwater contamination caused by hexavalent chromium used in the past at the Utility’s natural gas compressor stations. One of these stations is located near Needles, California and is referred to below as the “Topock site.”  Another station is located near Hinkley, California and is referred to below as the “Hinkley site.”  The Utility is also required to take measures to abate the effects of the contamination on the environment.





Topock Site


The Utility’s remediation and abatement efforts at the Topock site are subject to the regulatory authority of the California DTSC and the DOI. In November 2015,U.S. Department of the Interior. On April 24, 2018, the DTSC authorized the Utility submitted its final remediation design to the agencies for approval.  The Utility’s design proposes that the Utility constructbuild an in-situ groundwater treatment system to convert hexavalent chromium into a non-toxic and non-soluble form of chromium. Construction activities are scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2018 and continue for several years. The DTSC conducted an additionalUtility’s undiscounted future costs associated with the Topock site may increase by as much as $293 million if the extent of contamination or necessary remediation is greater than anticipated. The costs associated with environmental reviewremediation at the Topock site are expected to be recovered primarily through the HSM, where 90% of the proposed design and issued a draft environmental impact report for public commentcosts are recovered in January 2017.  After the DTSC considers public comments that may be made, the DTSC is expected to issue a final environmental impact report by the end of 2017.  After the Utility modifies its design in response to the final report, the Utility will seek approval to begin construction of the new in-situ treatment system in 2018.

rates.


Hinkley Site


The Utility has been implementing interim remediation measures at the Hinkley site to reduce the mass of the chromium plume in groundwater and to monitor and control movement of the plume. The Utility’s remediation and abatement efforts at the Hinkley site are subject to the regulatory authority of the California Regional Water Quality Control Board, Lahontan Region. In November 2015, the California Regional Water Quality Control Board, Lahontan Region adopted a final clean-up and abatement order directing the Utility to contain and remediate the underground plume of hexavalent chromium and the potential environmental impacts. The final order states that the Utility must continue and improve its remediation efforts, define the boundaries of the chromium plume, and take other action. Additionally, the final order requires settingsets plume capture requirements, requires establishing a monitoring and reporting program, and finalizesincludes deadlines for the Utility to meet interim cleanup targets.

Reasonably Possible Environmental Contingencies

Although The United States Geological Survey team is currently conducting a background study on the Utility has provided for known environmental obligations that are probable and reasonably estimable,site to better define the chromium plume boundaries. The background study is expected to be finalized in 2019. The Utility’s undiscounted future costs couldassociated with the Hinkley site may increase by as much as $1.0 billion (including amounts related to the Topock and Hinkley sites described above)$136 million if the extent of contamination or necessary remediation is greater than anticipated oranticipated. The costs associated with environmental remediation at the Hinkley site will not be recovered through rates.


Former Manufactured Gas Plants

Former MGPs used coal and oil to produce gas for use by the Utility’s customers before natural gas became available. The by-products and residues of this process were often disposed of at the MGPs themselves. The Utility has undertaken a program to manage the residues left behind as a result of the manufacturing process; many of the sites in the program have been addressed. The Utility’s undiscounted future costs associated with MGP sites may increase by as much as $534 million if the other potentially responsible partiesextent of contamination or necessary remediation is greater than anticipated. The costs associated with environmental remediation at the MGP sites are recovered through the HSM, where 90% of the costs are recovered in rates.

Utility-Owned Generation Facilities and Third-Party Disposal Sites

Utility-owned generation facilities and third-party disposal sites often involve long-term remediation. The Utility’s undiscounted future costs associated with Utility-owned generation facilities and third-party disposal sites may increase by as much as $142 million if the extent of contamination or necessary remediation is greater than anticipated. The environmental remediation costs associated with the Utility-owned generation facilities and third-party disposal sites are recovered through the HSM, where 90% of the costs are recovered in rates.

Fossil Fuel-Fired Generation Sites

In 1998, the Utility divested its generation power plant business as part of generation deregulation. Although the Utility sold its fossil-fueled power plants, the Utility retained the environmental remediation liability associated with each site. The Utility’s undiscounted future costs associated with fossil fuel-fired generation sites may increase by as much as $95 million if the extent of contamination or necessary remediation is greater than anticipated. The environmental remediation costs associated with the fossil fuel-fired sites will not financially able to contribute to these costs.be recovered through rates.



Liability Insurance

Following the Northern California wildfires, PG&E Corporation and the Utility reinstated their liability insurance and have approximately $630 million of insurance coverage for liabilities, including wildfire events, for the period ending on July 31, 2018. The Utility or its contractors may incur actualcontinue to experience coverage reductions and/or significantly increased insurance costs in future years. No assurance can be given that future losses will not exceed the future that are materially different than this estimatelimits of PG&E Corporation and such costs could have a material impact on resultsthe Utility’s insurance coverage or the insurance coverage of operations, financial condition, and cash flows during the period in which they are recorded.

Utility’s contractors.


Nuclear Insurance


The Utility maintains multiple insurance policies through NEIL and the European Mutual Association for Nuclear Insurance, covering nuclear or non- nuclearnon-nuclear events at the Utility’s two nuclear generating units at Diablo Canyon and the retired Humboldt Bay Unit 3.  If NEIL losses in any policy year exceed accumulated funds, the Utility could be subject to a retrospective assessment.  If NEIL were to exercise this assessment, as of June 30, 2018, the current maximum aggregate annual retrospective premium obligation offor the Utility would be approximately $58$47 million.  TheIf European Mutual Association for Nuclear Insurance provides $200losses in any policy year exceed accumulated funds, the Utility could be subject to a retrospective assessment of approximately $3 million, for any one accident and in the annual aggregate the excessas of the combined amount recoverable under the Utility’s NEIL policies.June 30, 2018.  For more information about the Utility’s nuclear insurance coverage, see Note 13 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8 of the 20162017 Form 10-K. 


Resolution of Remaining Chapter 11 Disputed Claims


Various electricity suppliers filed claims in the Utility’s proceeding filed under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code seeking payment for energy supplied to the Utility’s customers between May 2000 and June 2001.  While the FERC and judicial proceedings are pending, the Utility has pursued and continues to pursue, settlements with electricity suppliers.  The Utility has entered into a number of settlement agreements with various electricity suppliers to resolve some of these disputed claims and to resolve the Utility’s refund claims against these electricity suppliers. Under these settlement agreements, amounts payable by the parties are, in some instances, subject to adjustment based on the outcome of the various refund offset and interest issues being considered by the FERC.  Generally, any net refunds, claim offsets, or other credits that the Utility receives from electricity suppliers either through settlement or through the conclusion of the various FERC and judicial proceedings are refunded to customers through rates in future periods.


At June 30, 2018 and December 31, 2016,2017, respectively, the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets reflected $236$215 million and $243 million in net claims within Disputed claims and customer refunds.  There were no significant changes to this balance during the nine months ended September 30, 2017.  The Utility is uncertain when or how the remaining net disputed claims liability will be resolved.


41



Tax Matters


PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s unrecognized tax benefits may change significantly within the next 12 months due to the resolution of audits.  As of SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, it is reasonably possible that unrecognized tax benefits will decrease by approximately $70$20 million within the next 12 months.  PG&E Corporation and the Utility believe that the majority of the decrease will not impact net income. 

Gain Contingencies

San Bruno Derivative Litigation

Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017

On July 18,December 22, 2017, the Superior CourtU.S. government enacted expansive tax legislation commonly referred to as the Tax Act. Among other provisions, the Tax Act reduced the federal income tax rate from 35% to 21% beginning on January 1, 2018, and eliminated bonus depreciation for utilities. Passage of California, County of San Mateo (the “Court”) approved the settlement agreement reached by the parties in the San Bruno Fire Derivative Cases to resolve the consolidated shareholder derivative lawsuit and certain additional claims against certain current and former officers and directors (the “Individual Defendants”).  Also, as of July 19, 2017, the three cases, Tellardin v. Anthony F. Earley, Jr., et al.,Iron Workers Mid-South Pension Fund v. Johns, et al., and Bushkin v. Rambo, et al (the “Additional Derivative Cases”) were dismissed.  The settlement will become effective when all procedural conditions specified in the settlement stipulation are satisfied.  PG&E Corporation recorded $65 million in proceeds from insurance, net of plaintiff costs to its Condensed Consolidated Income Statement for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017.

Tax Act required PG&E Corporation and the Utility also agreed, under their indemnification obligations to re-measure all existing deferred income tax assets and liabilities to reflect the Individual Defendants, to pay $18.3 million ofreduction in the Individual Defendants’ costs, fees, and expenses incurred in connection with responding to, defending and settling the San Bruno Fire Derivative Cases and the Additional Derivative Cases, including certain fees and expenses for investigating these claims.  The $18.3 million has been paid, with the majority reflected in PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s financial statements through December 31, 2016.

In addition, pursuant to the settlement agreement,federal tax rate. PG&E Corporation and the Utility will implement certain corporate governance therapeuticsrecorded reasonable estimates to reflect the impacts of the Tax Act and recorded provisional amounts, in accordance with rules issued by the SEC staff in Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 118, for five years,the re-measurement of deferred tax balances as of December 31, 2017. As a result of updated estimates used in PG&E Corporation and the Utility's 2017 tax returns, during the three and six months ended June 30, 2018, the Utility will implement certain gas operations therapeutics and maintain certain of themrecorded a $13 million tax benefit to adjust provisional tax expense recorded at December 31, 2017, for three years, atthe Tax Act.  For the six months ended June 30, 2018, the Utility recorded an estimated cost of up to approximately $32 million. The Court also directed PG&E Corporation to provide at least quarterly reports$80 million reduction to the Court andregulatory liability recorded at December 31, 2017, for the Tax Act.




On March 30, 2018, the Utility submitted to the City of San Bruno summarizing the progressCPUC PFMs of the implementationCPUC’s final decisions in the Utility’s 2017 GRC, and the 2015 GT&S rate case. Additionally, the Utility submitted updated testimony in connection with the 2019 GT&S rate case.  These submittals reflect the effects of the corporate governanceTax Act on these rate cases. On an aggregate basis from these submittals, the Utility anticipates an annual reduction to revenue requirements of approximately $325 million starting in 2018, and gas operations therapeutics. 

incremental increases to rate base of approximately $271 million for 2018 (including the impact of the private letter ruling advice letter approved by the CPUC on July 18, 2018), and $613 million for 2019.  The incremental increases to rate base are due primarily to the elimination of bonus depreciation. The Utility also expects to reflect an annual revenue requirement reduction, starting in 2018, of approximately $125 million from other rate cases, including the TO19 rate case. On May 14, 2018, the Utility filed a proposal to reflect the impact of the Tax Act on its TO tariff rates effective March 1, 2018. The associated rate base increases are approximately $100 million in 2018 and $200 million in 2019. The Utility is unable to predict the timing and outcome of the CPUC and FERC decisions in connection with these submittals.


Purchase Commitments


In the ordinary course of business, the Utility enters into various agreements to purchase power and electric capacity; natural gas supply, transportation, and storage; nuclear fuel supply and services; and various other commitments.  At December 31, 2016,2017, the Utility had undiscounted future expected obligations of approximately $47$44 billion.  (See Note 13 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8 of the 20162017 Form 10-K.) The Utility has not entered into any new material commitments during the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017.

2018.


NOTE 10: SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

Investigation of Recent Northern California wildfires

Beginning on October 8, 2017, multiple wildfires spread through Northern California, including Napa, Sonoma, Butte, Humboldt, Mendocino, Del Norte, Lake, Nevada, and Yuba Counties, as well as in the area surrounding Yuba City.  According to the Cal Fire California Statewide Fire Summary dated October 30, 2017, at the peak of the wildfires, there were 21 major wildfires in California that, in total, burned over 245,000 acres, resulted in 43 fatalities, and destroyed an estimated 8,900 structures.

The causes of these fires are being investigated by Cal Fire and the CPUC, including the possible role of the Utility’s power lines and other facilities.  The Utility expects that Cal Fire will issue a report or reports stating its conclusions as to the sources of ignition of the fires and the way that they progressed.  The CPUC’s SED is conducting investigations to assess the compliance of electric and communication companies’ facilities with applicable rules and regulations in fire impacted areas.  According to information made available by the CPUC, investigation topics include, but are not limited to, maintenance of facilities, vegetation management, and emergency preparedness and response.  It is uncertain when the investigations will be complete and whether Cal Fire will release preliminary findings before its investigation is complete. 

As of October 31, 2017, the Utility had submitted 20 electric incident reports to the CPUC involving the Utility’s facilities in and around the areas impacted by the Northern California wildfires.  Electric utilities must report to the CPUC incidents that are attributable or allegedly attributable to utility-owned facilities and (1) result in fatality or personal injury rising to the level of in-patient hospitalization; or (2) are the subject of significant public attention or media coverage; or (3) involve damage to property of the Utility or others estimated to exceed $50,000.  The information contained in these reports is factual and does not include a determination of the causes of the fires.  The investigations into the causes of the fires are ongoing.

The Utility estimates that it will incur costs in the range of $160 million to $200 million for service restoration and repairs to the Utility’s facilities (including an estimated $60 million to $80 million in capital expenditures) in connection with these fires.  While the Utility believes that such costs are recoverable through CEMA, its CEMA requests are subject to CPUC approval.  The Utility’s financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, and cash flows could be materially adversely affected if the Utility were unable to recover such costs.

If the Utility’s facilities, such as its electric distribution and transmission lines, are determined to be the cause of one or more fires, and the theory of inverse condemnation applies, the Utility could be liable for property damages, interest, and attorneys’ fees without having been found negligent, which liability, in the aggregate, could be substantial.  Courts have imposed liability under inverse condemnation policy to actions by property holders against utilities on the grounds that losses borne by the person whose property was damaged through a public use undertaking should be spread across the community that benefitted from such undertaking and based on the assumption that utilities have the ability to recover these costs from their customers.  In addition to such claims for property damage, interest and attorneys’ fees, as well as claims under other theories of liability, the Utility could be liable for fire suppression costs, personal injury damages, and other damages if the Utility were found to have been negligent, which liability, in the aggregate, could be substantial.  The Utility also could be subject to material fines or penalties if the CPUC or any other law enforcement agency brought an enforcement action and determined that the Utility failed to comply with applicable laws and regulations.  PG&E Corporation and the Utility are unable to reasonably estimate the amount of possible losses (or range of amounts) given the preliminary stages of the investigations and uncertainty as to the causes of the fires and the extent and magnitude of damages. 

As of October 31, 2017, the Utility is aware of nine lawsuits, one of which seeks to be designated as a class action, that have been filed against PG&E Corporation and the Utility in Sonoma, Napa and San Francisco Counties' Superior Courts. The lawsuits allege, among other things, negligence, inverse condemnation, trespass, and private nuisance.  They principally assert that PG&E Corporation and the Utility’s alleged failure to maintain and repair their distribution and transmission lines and failure to properly maintain the vegetation surrounding such lines were the cause of the fires.  The plaintiffs seek damages that include personal injury, property damage, evacuation costs, medical expenses, and other damages.  PG&E Corporation and the Utility may be subject of additional lawsuits in connection with the Northern California wildfires.

The Utility has approximately $800 million in liability insurance for potential losses that may result from the Northern California wildfires.  If the Utility were held liable for one or more fires and the Utility’s insurance were insufficient to cover that liability or the Utility were unable to recover costs in excess of insurance through regulatory mechanisms, either of which could take a number of years to resolve, PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, and cash flows could be materially adversely affected. 

Following the Northern California wildfires, PG&E Corporation reinstated its liability insurance in the amount of approximately $630 million for any potential future event.







ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS


OVERVIEW


PG&E Corporation is a holding company whose primary operating subsidiary is Pacific Gas and Electric Company, a public utility serving northern and central California.  The Utility generates revenues mainly through the sale and delivery of electricity and natural gas to customers.


The Utility is regulated primarily by the CPUC and the FERC.  The CPUC has jurisdiction over the rates, terms, and conditions of service for the Utility’s electricity and natural gas distribution operations, electric generation, and natural gas transportation and storage.  The FERC has jurisdiction over the rates and terms and conditions of service governing the Utility’s electric transmission operations and interstate natural gas transportation contracts.  The NRC oversees the licensing, construction, operation, and decommissioning of the Utility’s nuclear generation facilities.  The Utility is also subject to the jurisdiction of other federal, state, and local governmental agencies.


This is a combined quarterly report of PG&E Corporation and the Utility and should be read in conjunction with each company’s separate Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements included in this quarterly report.  It also should be read in conjunction with the 20162017 Form 10-K.


Beginning on October 8, 2017, multiple wildfires spread through Northern California, including Napa, Sonoma, Butte, Humboldt, Mendocino, Del Norte, Lake, Nevada, and Yuba Counties, as well as in the area surrounding Yuba City (the “Northern California wildfires”).  According to the Cal Fire California Statewide Fire Summary dated October 30, 2017, at the peak of the wildfires, there were 21 major wildfires in Northern California that, in total, burned over 245,000 acres resulted in 43 fatalities, and destroyed an estimated 8,900 structures.

The causes of these fireswildfires also resulted in 44 fatalities.


The Northern California wildfires are being investigatedunder investigation by Cal Fire and the CPUC,CPUC's SED. Cal Fire issued its determination on the causes of 16 of the Northern California wildfires and the remaining wildfires remain under Cal Fire's investigation, including the possible role of the Utility's power lines and other facilities.  The Utility expects that Cal Fire will issue a report or reports stating its conclusions as to the sourcesFor more information, see Note 9 of ignition of the fires and the way that they progressed.  The CPUC’s SED is conducting investigations to assess the compliance of electric and communication companies’ facilities with applicable rules and regulations in fire impacted areas.  According to information made available by the CPUC, investigation topics include, but are not limited to, maintenance of facilities, vegetation management, and emergency preparedness and response.  It is uncertain when the investigations will be complete and whether Cal Fire will release preliminary findings before its investigation is complete. 

As of October 31, 2017, the Utility had submitted 20 electric incident reports to the CPUC involving the Utility’s facilities in and around the areas impacted by the Northern California wildfires.  Electric utilities must report to the CPUC incidents that are attributable or allegedly attributable to utility-owned facilities and (1) result in fatality or personal injury rising to the level of in-patient hospitalization; or (2) are the subject of significant public attention or media coverage; or (3) involve damage to property of the Utility or others estimated to exceed $50,000.  The information contained in these reports is factual and does not include a determination of the causes of the fires.  The investigations into the causes of the fires are ongoing.  See Note 10 in the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. 

Statements in Item 1.


PG&E Corporation and the Utility’s financial condition, results of operations, liquidity and cash flows could be materially adversely affected by additional potential losses resulting from the impact of the Northern California wildfires. See Item“Item 1A. Risk FactorsFactors” in thisthe 2017 Form 10-Q.

10-K and in Part II below under “Item 1A. Risk Factors.”

44

Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017

On December 22, 2017, the U.S. government enacted expansive tax legislation commonly referred to as the Tax Act. Among other provisions, the Tax Act reduced the federal income tax rate from 35% to 21% beginning on January 1, 2018 and eliminated bonus depreciation for utilities. Passage of the Tax Act required PG&E Corporation and the Utility to re-measure all existing deferred income tax assets and liabilities to reflect the reduction in the federal tax rate. PG&E Corporation and the Utility recorded reasonable estimates to reflect the impacts of the Tax Act and recorded provisional amounts, in accordance with rules issued by the SEC staff in Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 118, for the re-measurement of deferred tax balances as of December 31, 2017.  As a result of updated estimates used in PG&E Corporation and the Utility's 2017 tax returns, during the three and six months ended June 30, 2018, the Utility recorded a $13 million tax benefit to adjust provisional tax expense recorded at December 31, 2017, for the Tax Act. For the six months ended June 30, 2018, the Utility recorded an $80 million reduction to the regulatory liability recorded at December 31, 2017 for the Tax Act.




On March 30, 2018, the Utility submitted to the CPUC PFMs of the CPUC’s final decisions in the Utility’s 2017 GRC, and the 2015 GT&S rate case. Additionally, the Utility submitted updated testimony in connection with the 2019 GT&S rate case.  These submittals reflect the effects of the Tax Act on these rate cases. On an aggregate basis from these submittals, the Utility anticipates an annual reduction to revenue requirements of approximately $325 million starting in 2018, and incremental increases to rate base of approximately $271 million for 2018 (including the impact of the private letter ruling advice letter approved by the CPUC on July 18, 2018), and $613 million for 2019.  The incremental increases to rate base are due primarily to the elimination of bonus depreciation. The Utility also expects to reflect an annual revenue requirement reduction, starting in 2018, of approximately $125 million from other rate cases, including the TO19 rate case. On May 14, 2018, the Utility filed a proposal to reflect the impact of the Tax Act on its TO tariff rates effective March 1, 2018. The associated rate base increases are approximately $100 million in 2018 and $200 million in 2019. The Utility is unable to predict the timing and outcome of the CPUC and FERC decisions in connection with these submittals.



Summary of Changes in Net Income and Earnings per Share


The tables below include a summary reconciliation of PG&E Corporation’s consolidated income available for common shareholders and EPS to earnings from operations and EPS based on earnings from operations for the three and ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 as compared to the same periods in 20162017 and a summary reconciliation of the key drivers of PG&E Corporation’s earnings from operations and EPS based on earnings from operations for the three and ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 as compared to the same periodsperiod in 2016.2017.  “Earnings from operations” is a non-GAAP financial measure and is calculated as income available for common shareholders less items impacting comparability.  “Items impacting comparability” represent items that management does not consider part of the normal course of operations and affect comparability of financial results between periods.  PG&E Corporation uses earnings from operations to understand and compare operating results across reporting periods for various purposes including internal budgeting and forecasting, short and long-term operating plans,planning, and employee incentive compensation.  PG&E Corporation believes that non-GAAP earnings from operations provide additional insight into the underlying trends of the business allowing for a better comparison against historical results and expectations for future performance.  EarningsNon-GAAP earnings from operations are not a substitute or alternative for GAAP measures such as income available for common shareholders and may not be comparable to similarly titled measures used by other companies.

 

Three Months Ended September 30,

 

Nine Months Ended September 30,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Earnings per

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Earnings per

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common Share

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common Share

(in millions,

Earnings

 

(Diluted)

 

Earnings

 

(Diluted)

except per share amounts)

2017

 

2016

 

2017

 

2016

 

2017

 

2016

 

2017

2016

PG&E Corporation’s

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Earnings on a GAAP basis

$

550 

 

$

388 

 

$

1.07 

 

$

0.77 

 

$

1,532 

 

$

701 

 

$

2.98

 

$

1.40

Items Impacting

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Comparability: (1)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pipeline related expenses (2)

 

12 

 

 

18 

 

 

0.02 

 

 

0.04 

 

 

45 

 

 

47 

 

 

0.09 

 

 

0.10 

Legal and regulatory

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

related expenses (3)

 

1 

 

 

14 

 

 

- 

 

 

0.03 

 

 

5 

 

 

32 

 

 

0.01 

 

 

0.06 

Fines and penalties (4) 

 

11 

 

 

42 

 

 

0.02 

 

 

0.08 

 

 

47 

 

 

206 

 

 

0.09 

 

 

0.41 

Butte fire-related costs,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

net of insurance (5)

 

42 

 

 

9 

 

 

0.08 

 

 

0.02 

 

 

27 

 

 

110 

 

 

0.05 

 

 

0.22 

Net benefit from derivative

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

litigation settlement (6)

 

(38)

 

 

- 

 

 

(0.07)

 

 

- 

 

 

(38)

 

 

- 

 

 

(0.07)

 

 

- 

GT&S revenue timing impact (7)

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

(88)

 

 

- 

 

 

(0.17)

 

 

- 

Diablo Canyon settlement-related

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

disallowance (8)

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

32 

 

 

- 

 

 

0.06 

 

 

- 

GT&S capital disallowance 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

113 

 

 

- 

 

 

0.23 

PG&E Corporation’s

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Earnings from Operations (9)

$

578 

 

$

471 

 

$

1.12 

 

$

0.94 

 

$

1,562 

 

$

1,209 

 

$

3.04 

 

$

2.42 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30,
 Earnings Earnings per Common Share (Diluted) Earnings Earnings per Common Share (Diluted)
(in millions, except per share amounts)2018 2017 2018 2017 2018 2017 2018 2017
PG&E Corporation’s Earnings (Loss) on a GAAP basis$(984) $406
 $(1.91) $0.79
 $(542) $982
 $(1.05) $1.92
Items Impacting Comparability: (1)
               
Northern California wildfire-related costs, net of insurance (2)
1,592
 
 3.08
 
 1,608
 
 3.11
 
Pipeline-related expenses (3)
9
 17
 0.02
 0.03
 16
 33
 0.03
 0.06
Butte fire-related costs, net of insurance (4)
7
 (17) 0.01
 (0.03) 11
 (15) 0.02
 (0.03)
2017 insurance premiums cost recoveries (5)
(23) 
 (0.04) 
 (23) 
 (0.04) 
Diablo Canyon settlement-related disallowance (6)

 32
 
 0.06
 
 32
 
 0.06
Legal and regulatory-related expenses (7)

 2
 
 0.01
 
 4
 
 0.01
Fines and penalties (8)

 
 
 
 
 36
 
 0.07
GT&S revenue timing impact (9)

 
 
 
 
 (88) 
 (0.17)
PG&E Corporation’s Non- GAAP Earnings from Operations (10)
$601
 $440
 $1.16
 $0.86
 $1,070
 $984
 $2.07
 $1.92
                
All amounts presented in the table above are tax adjusted at PG&E Corporation’s statutory tax rate of 27.98 percent for 2018 and 40.75 percent for 2017, except as indicated below.

for certain fines and penalties in 2017.

(1)“Items “Items impacting comparability” represent items that management does not consider part of the normal course of operations and affect comparability of financial results between periods.

(2)The Utility incurred costs, net of $20insurance, of $2.2 billion (before the tax impact of $619 million) and $2.2 billion (before the tax impact of $625 million) during the three and six months ended June 30, 2018, respectively, associated with the Northern California wildfires. This includes accrued charges of $2.5 billion (before the tax impact of $700 million) during the three and six months ended June 30, 2018, related to estimated third-party claims in connection with 14 of the Northern California wildfires. The Utility also recorded $46 million (before the tax impact of $8$13 million) and $76$68 million (before the tax impact of $31$19 million) during the three and ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, respectively for pipeline relatedlegal and other costs. In addition, the Utility incurred costs of $40 million (before the tax impact of $11 million) during the three and six months ended June 30, 2018 for Utility clean-up and repair costs. These costs were partially offset by $375 million (before the tax impact of $105 million) recorded during the three and six months ended June 30, 2018 for probable insurance recoveries.
(3) The Utility incurred costs of $12 million (before the tax impact of $3 million) and $22 million (before the tax impact of $6 million) during the three and six months ended June 30, 2018, respectively, for pipeline-related expenses incurred in connection with the multi-year effort to identify and remove encroachments from transmission pipeline rights-of-way.

(3)  (4)The Utility incurred costs, net of $2insurance, of $10 million (before the tax impact of $1$3 million) and $9$15 million (before the tax impact of $4 million) during the three and ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2018, respectively, associated with the Butte fire. The Utility incurred charges of $10 million (before the tax impact of $3 million) and $22 million (before the tax impact of $6 million) during the three and six months ended June 30, 2018, respectively, for legal costs. These costs were partially offset by $7 million (before the tax impact of $2 million) recorded during the six months ended June 30, 2018 for contractor insurance recoveries.
(5) As a result of the CPUC’s June 2018 decision authorizing a WEMA, the Utility recorded $32 million (before the tax impact of $9 million) during the three and six months ended June 30, 2018 for probable cost recoveries of insurance premiums incurred in 2017 above amounts included in authorized revenue requirements.


(6) The Utility recorded a disallowance of $47 million (before the tax impact of $15 million) during the three and six months ended June 30, 2017, comprised of cancelled projects of $24 million (before the tax impact of $6 million) and disallowed license renewal costs of $23 million (before the tax impact of $9 million), as a result of the settlement agreement submitted to the CPUC in connection with the Utility’s joint proposal to retire the Diablo Canyon Power Plant.
(7) The Utility incurred costs of $3 million (before the tax impact of $1 million) and $7 million (before the tax impact of $3 million) during the three and six months ended June 30, 2017, respectively, for legal and regulatory related expenses incurred in connection with various enforcement, regulatory, and litigation activities regarding natural gas matters and regulatory communications.


(4) (8)The Utility incurred costs of $11 million (not tax deductible) and $71$60 million (before the tax impact of $24 million) during the three and ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017, respectively, for fines and penalties. This includes disallowed expensesincluded costs of $32 million (before the tax impact of $13 million) during the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017, associated with safety-related cost disallowances imposed by the CPUC in its April 9, 2015 decision (“San Bruno Penalty Decision”) in the gas transmission pipeline investigations. The Utility also recorded $15 million (before the tax impact of $6 million) during the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017, for disallowances imposed by the CPUC in its final phase two decision of the 2015 GT&S rate case for prohibited ex parte communications. In addition, the Utility recorded $11 million (not tax deductible) and $24$12 million (before the tax impact of $5 million) and $1 million (which was not tax deductible) during the three and ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017, respectively,for financial remedies in connection with the proposed decision andsettlement filed with the settlement inCPUC on March 28, 2017, related to the Order Instituting an Investigationorder instituting investigation into Compliancecompliance with Ex Parte Communication Rules.  Future fines or penalties may be imposed in connection with other enforcement, regulatory, and litigation activities regarding regulatory communications.ex parte communication rules.

(5) (9)The Utility incurred costsrecorded revenues of $71$150 million (before the tax impact of $29 million) and $46 million (before the tax impact of $19 million), during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017, respectively, associated with the Butte fire, net of insurance. This includes accrued charges of $350 million (before the tax impact of $143 million), during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017, related to estimated third-party claims.  The Utility also incurred charges of $18 million (before the tax impact of $7 million) and $46 million (before the tax impact of $19 million), during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017, respectively, for legal costs.  These costs were partially offset by insurance recoveries of $297 million (before the tax impact of $121 million) and $350 million (before the tax impact of $143 million) recorded during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017, respectively.

(6) PG&E Corporation recorded proceeds from insurance, net of plaintiff payments, of $65 million (before the tax impact of $27$62 million) during the three and ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017 associated within excess of the settlement agreement in connection with2017 authorized revenue requirement, which included the shareholder derivative litigation that was approved by the Superior Courtfinal component of California, County of San Mateo on July 18, 2017. This includes $90 million (before the tax impact of $37 million) during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017, for proceeds from insurance partially offset by $25 million (before the tax impact of $10 million) during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017, for plaintiff legal fees paid in connection with the settlement.

(7) Asunder-collected revenues retroactive to January 1, 2015, as a result of the CPUC’s final phase two decision in the 2015 GT&S rate case, during the nine months ended September 30, 2017, the Utility recorded revenues of $150 million (before the tax impact of $62 million) in excess of the 2017 authorized revenue requirement, which includes the final component of under-collected revenues retroactive to January 1, 2015.case.

(8) (10)As a result of the settlement agreement submitted to the CPUC in connection with the Utility’s pending joint proposal to retire the Diablo Canyon Power Plant, the Utility recorded a total disallowance of $47 million (before the tax impact of $15 million) during the nine months ended September 30, 2017, comprised of cancelled projects of $24 million (before the tax impact of $6 million) and disallowed license renewal costs of $23 million (before the tax impact of $9 million), with no corresponding charges during the same periods in 2016. A portion of the cancelled projects and disallowed license renewal costs currently is not tax deductible.

 (9)  “Earnings “Non-GAAP earnings from operations” is a non-GAAP financial measure.

Reconciliation of Key Drivers of PG&E Corporation’s EPS from Operations (Non-GAAP):

 

Three Months Ended September 30,

 

Nine Months Ended September 30,

 

 

 

 

 

Earnings per

 

 

 

 

 

Earnings per

 

 

 

 

 

Common Share

 

 

 

 

 

Common Share

(in millions, except per share amounts)

 

Earnings 

 

 

(Diluted)

 

 

Earnings 

 

 

(Diluted)

2016 Earnings from Operations (1)

$

471 

 

$

0.94 

 

$

1,209 

 

$

2.42 

Timing of taxes (2)

 

42 

 

 

0.08 

 

 

90 

 

 

0.18 

Timing of operational spend (3)

 

31 

 

 

0.06 

 

 

31 

 

 

0.06 

Growth in rate base earnings (4)

 

27 

 

 

0.05 

 

 

78 

 

 

0.15 

Timing of 2015 GT&S revenue impact (5)

 

22 

 

 

0.04 

 

 

172 

 

 

0.33 

Tax benefit on stock compensation (6)

 

- 

 

 

- 

 

 

31 

 

 

0.06 

Miscellaneous

 

41 

 

 

0.07 

 

 

43 

 

 

0.08 

Impact of 2017 GRC decision (7)

 

(56)

 

 

(0.10)

 

 

(92)

 

 

(0.18)

Increase in shares outstanding

 

- 

 

 

(0.02)

 

 

- 

 

 

(0.06)

2017 Earnings from Operations (1)

$

578 

 

$

1.12 

 

$

1,562 

 

$

3.04 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Second Quarter 2018 vs. 2017 Year to Date 2018 vs. 2017
(in millions, except per share amounts)Earnings Earnings per Common Share (Diluted) Earnings Earnings per Common Share (Diluted)
2017 Non- GAAP Earnings from Operations (1)
$440
 $0.86
 $984
 $1.92
Timing and duration of nuclear refueling outages43
 0.08
 12
 0.02
Resolution of regulatory items (2)
29
 0.06
 29
 0.06
Insurance premium cost recoveries (3)
27
 0.05
 27
 0.05
Timing of taxes (4)
26
 0.05
 1
 
Growth in rate base earnings (5)
23
 0.04
 65
 0.12
Miscellaneous38
 0.07
 10
 0.02
Timing of 2017 GRC cost recovery (6)
(18) (0.03) 
 
Decrease in authorized return on equity (7)
(7) (0.01) (14) (0.02)
Increase in shares outstanding
 (0.01) 
 (0.02)
Tax impact of stock compensation (8)

 
 (44) (0.08)
2018 Non-GAAP Earnings from Operations (1)
$601
 $1.16
 $1,070
 $2.07
        
(1)See first table above for a reconciliation of EPS on a GAAP basis to non-GAAP EPS from Operations. All amounts presented in the table above are tax adjusted at PG&E Corporation’s statutory tax rate of 27.98 percent for 2018 and 40.75 percent for 2017, except for the tax benefits onimpact of stock compensation.  See Footnote 68 below.

(2) Represents the impact of various regulatory outcomes during the three and six months ended June 30, 2018.
(3) Represents insurance premium costs incurred during the three and six months ended June 30, 2018, above amounts included in authorized revenue requirements, that are probable of recovery as a result of the CPUC’s June 2018 decision authorizing a WEMA.
(4) Represents the timing of taxes reportable in quarterly statements in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification 740, Income Taxes, and results from variancevariances in the percentage of quarterly earnings to annual earnings.

(3)  Represents the timing of operational expense spending during the three months ended September 30, 2017 as compared to the same period in 2016.


(4)  (5) Represents the impact of the increase in rate base as authorized in various rate cases, including the 2017 GRC, during the three and ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018, as compared to the same periodsperiod in 2016.

(5)  Represents the impact in 2016 of the delay in the Utility’s 2015 GT&S rate case.2017. The CPUC issued its final phase two decision on December 1, 2016, delaying recognition of the full 2016 revenue increase until the fourth quarter of 2016.

(6)  Represents the incremental tax benefit related to share-based compensation awards that vested during the nine months ended September 30, 2017. Pursuant to ASU 2016-09, Compensation – Stock Compensation (Topic 718), which PG&E Corporation and the Utility adopted in 2016, excess tax benefits associated with vested awards are reflected in net income.

(7)  Represents the impact of lower tax repair benefits as a result of the CPUC’s May 2017 final decision in the 2017 GRC proceeding.delayed recognition of the 2017 revenue increase until the second quarter of 2017, resulting in a smaller revenue increase in the second quarter of 2018 as compared to the first quarter of 2018.

(6) Represents incremental revenue recorded in the second quarter of 2017 to recover GRC-related capital costs (depreciation and interest) incurred in the first quarter of 2017. The CPUC approved a final decision in the 2017 GRC on May 11, 2017, delaying recognition of the 2017 revenue increase until the second quarter of 2017.
(7) Represents the decrease in return on equity from 10.40 percent in 2017 to 10.25 percent in 2018 as a result of the 2017 CPUC final decision approving an additional extension to the original 2013 Cost of Capital decision.
(8) Represents the impact of income taxes related to share-based compensation awards under the Long-Term Incentive Plan that vested during the six months ended June 30, 2018, as compared to the same period in 2017.



Key Factors Affecting Financial Results


PG&E Corporation and the Utility believe that their financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, and cash flows may be materially affected by the following factors:


The Impact of the Northern California Wildfires. PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, and cash flows could be materially adversely affected by potential losses resulting from the impactNorthern California wildfires. Following accounting rules, PG&E Corporation and the Utility recorded a pre-tax charge in the amount of $2.5 billion for the quarter ended June 30, 2018 ($1.8 billion after-tax) for claims in connection with 14 of the Northern California wildfires. The Utility estimates that it will incur costs inThis charge corresponds to the lower end of the range of $160 million to $200 million for service restoration and repairs to the Utility’s facilities (including an estimated $60 million to $80 million in capital expenditures) in connection with these fires.  PG&E Corporation’sCorporation's and the Utility’s financial condition, results of operations, liquidity,Utility's reasonably estimated losses, and cash flows could be materially adversely affected if the Utility were unableis subject to recover such costs through CEMA.change based on additional information. If the Utility’s facilities, such as its electric distribution and transmission lines, are determined to be the substantial cause of one or more remaining fires, and the theorydoctrine of inverse condemnation applies, the Utility could be liable for property damages,damage, business interruption, interest, and attorneys’ fees without having been found negligent, which liability, in the aggregate, could be substantial.substantial and have a material adverse effect on PG&E Corporation and the Utility. In addition to such claims as well as claims under other theories of liability,for property damage, business interruption, interest and attorneys' fees, the Utility could be liable for fire suppression costs, evacuation costs, medical expenses, personal injury damages, and other damages under other theories of liability, including if the Utility were found to have been negligent, which liability, in the aggregate, could be substantial.  Thesubstantial and have a material adverse effect on PG&E Corporation and the Utility. In addition, the Utility alsoincurred costs of $274 million for clean-up and repair of the Utility’s facilities (including $116 million in capital expenditures) through June 30, 2018, in connection with these wildfires. At June 30, 2018, the CEMA balance related to the Northern California wildfires was $96 million and reflects an approximately $40 million reduction to the regulatory asset that was recorded in the three months ended June 30, 2018 for costs that are no longer probable of recovery. Failure to obtain a substantial or full recovery of these costs or any conclusion that such recovery is no longer probable, could have a material adverse effect on PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, and cash flows. Further, the Utility could be subject to material fines or penalties if the CPUC or any other law enforcement agency brought an enforcement action and determined that the Utility failed to comply with applicable laws and regulations. If(See Notes 3 and 9 of the Utility were to determine that it is both probable that a material loss has occurred and the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated, a liability would be recorded consistent with the principles discussed in Note 9 to Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.  To the extent not offset by insurance recoveries determined to be similarly probable and estimable, the liability would affect the balance sheet equity of PG&E Corporation and the Utility.  (See Note 10 to Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 1.)

The Applicability of the Doctrine of Inverse Condemnation to PG&E Corporation's and the Utility’s Current Wildfire Litigation. The doctrine of inverse condemnation, if applied by courts in litigation to which PG&E Corporation and the Utility are subject, could expose PG&E Corporation and the Utility to substantial liabilities from such litigation and materially affect PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s financial condition, results of operations, liquidity and cash flows. Although the imposition of liability is premised on the assumption that utilities have the ability to recover these costs from their customers, there can be no guarantee that the CPUC would authorize cost recovery even if a court decision imposes liability under the doctrine of inverse condemnation. In November 2017, the CPUC denied recovery of costs that San Diego Gas & Electric Company stated it incurred as a result of the doctrine of inverse condemnation, holding that the inverse condemnation principles of strict liability are not relevant to the CPUC’s prudent manager standard. San Diego Gas & Electric, the Utility, and Southern California Edison filed requests for rehearing of that decision. On July 12, 2018, the CPUC voted out a decision denying the requests for rehearing. PG&E Corporation and the Utility are also challenging the appropriateness of applying inverse condemnation to investor-owned utilities in the Butte Fire litigation and the Northern California wildfires litigation. (See Note 9 of the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 1A. Risk Factors in this Form 10-Q.1.


The Timing and Outcome of Pending Wildfire Legislation. The applicability of inverse condemnation to investor-owned utilities could be impacted by actions of the California state legislature. On March 13, 2018, Governor Brown along with Democratic and Republican legislative leaders issued a joint statement indicating an intent to partner on solutions to protect Californians from the threat of natural disasters and climate change, including an update to liability rules and regulations for utility services. On July 2, 2018, Governor Brown and Democratic and Republican legislative leaders announced the formation of a Wildfire Preparedness and Response Conference Committee to respond to the increasing wildfire danger in California. The committee will consider provisions of the plan outlined by the Governor in March 2018 to update rules and regulations for utility service in light of the changing climate and increased severity and frequency of weather events. The Governor’s press release states that “legislation would implement these changes in the future, and nothing in the bill would affect any potential liability for last year’s historic and massively destructive wildfires.”



Uncertainties Related to Capital Expenditures. The Utility’s need to invest in and enhance its infrastructure, including new and innovative approaches to address the growing wildfire risk, requires the Utility to continue to raise new capital. Over the last five years, PG&E Corporation and the Utility together have raised $2 to $3 billion per year in debt and equity to funds these types of investments and to refinance earlier investments. However, PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s ability to raise capital is impacted by ongoing uncertainty associated with both the 2017 Northern California Wildfires and future risks resulting from climate change. These uncertainties have led to credit rating downgrades with ongoing scrutiny and weakened demand for PG&E Corporation stock.

The Utility's Compliance with the CPUC Capital Structure. The CPUC’s capital structure decisions require the Utility to maintain a minimum 52% average equity ratio over the period that the authorized capital structure is in place, and to file an application for a waiver to the capital structure condition if an adverse financial event reduces its equity ratio below 51%. The net charges the Utility recorded in connection with the Northern California wildfires for the quarter ended June 30, 2018, and described herein, will not result in noncompliance by the Utility with its authorized capital structure. However, in the future, maintaining compliance with the Utility’s authorized capital structure may require PG&E Corporation to issue a significant amount of equity, depending on the timing and amount of any claims payments and whether additional charges are recorded. If the Utility submits an application to the CPUC for a waiver to its capital structure condition, there can be no assurance that the CPUC would grant such waiver.

The Cost of Insurance. The Utility expects to enter into various contracts providing liability insurance for coverage beginning August 1, 2018. The combined risk transfer products are expected to provide aggregate coverage from $1 billion to $1.5 billion, a portion of which is expected to cover non-wildfire events. The Utility anticipates annualized costs of approximately $350 million for insurance premiums for this coverage, an increase of approximately $225 million per year as compared to annualized premium costs for coverage that began in August 2017. Insurance premiums in excess of the Utility’s authorized revenue requirements will be tracked in the WEMA. Failure to obtain a substantial or full recovery of such costs or any conclusion that such recovery is no longer probable, could have a material adverse effect on PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, and cash flows.

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. On December 22, 2017, the U.S. government enacted expansive tax legislation commonly referred to as the Tax Act. Among other provisions, the Tax Act reduced the federal income tax rate from 35% to 21% beginning on January 1, 2018 and eliminated bonus depreciation for utilities. On March 30, 2018, the Utility submitted PFMs of the CPUC's final decisions in the Utility's 2017 GRC, and the 2015 GT&S rate case. Additionally, the Utility submitted updated testimony in connection with the 2019 GT&S rate case. These submittals reflect the effects of the Tax Act on these rate cases. On May 14, 2018, the Utility filed a proposal to reflect the impact of the Tax Act on its TO tariff rates effective, March 1, 2018, in the resolution of the TO19 rate case. The Utility is unable to predict the timing and outcome of the CPUC's and FERC's decisions in connection with these submittals. (See Note 9 of the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 1.)

The Outcome of Enforcement, Litigation, and Regulatory Matters.The Utility’s future financial results may continue to be impacted by the outcome of current and future enforcement, litigation, and regulatory matters, including the impact of the Northern California wildfires, the Butte fire, the safety culture OII and any related fines, penalties, or other ratemaking tools that could be imposed by the CPUC, including as a resultthe outcome of the phase two of the proceeding, the ex parte OII, and the related proposed decision, the potential recommendations that the third-party monitor (appointed(retained by the Utility in the first quarter of 2017 as a resultpart of its compliance with the sentencing terms of the Utility’s conviction in theJanuary 27, 2017 federal criminal trial)conviction) may make, related to the Utility’s conviction in the federal criminal trial, and potential penalties in connection with the Utility’s safety and other self-reports. (See Note 9 of the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 1A. Risk Factors in the 2016 Form 10-K and Item 1A. in this Form 10-Q.1.)


The Timing and Outcome of Ratemaking Proceedings.  Proceedings. The Utility’s futurefinancial results may be impacted by the timing and outcome of its 2019 GT&S rate case, 2020 GRC, FERC TO18 and TO19 rate cases.  (See “Transmission Owner Rate Cases” in “Regulatory Matters” belowcases, as well as the remand decision by the Ninth Circuit regarding an ROE incentive adder for more information.)transmission facilities, and the 2018 CEMA filing. The outcome of regulatory proceedings can be affected by many factors, including intervening parties’ testimonies, potential rate impacts, the Utility’s reputation, the regulatory and political environments, and other factors.



The Changes in the Utility Industry. The Utility is committed to delivering safe, reliable, sustainable, and affordable electric and gas services to its customers. Increasing demands from state laws and policies relating to increased renewable energy resources, the reduction of GHG emissions, the expansion of energy efficiency programs,goals, the development and widespread deployment of distributed generation and self-generation resources, and the development of energy storage technologies have increased pressure on the Utility to achieve efficiencies in its operations while continuing to provide customers with safe, reliable, and affordable service. The utility industry is also undergoing a transformative change driven by technological advancements enabling customer choice (for example, customer-owned generation and energy storage) and state climate policy supporting a decarbonized economy. California’s environmental policy objectives are accelerating the pace and scope of the industry change. The electric grid is a critical enabler of the adoption of new energy technologies that support California's climate change and GHG reduction objectives, which continue to be publicly supported by California policy makers notwithstanding a recent change in the federal approach to such matters. In order to enable the California clean energy economy, sustained investments are required in grid modernization, renewable integration projects, energy efficiency programs, energy storage options, EV infrastructure, and Statestate infrastructure modernization (e.g., rail and water projects).  The Utility forecasts over $1 billion in grid investments through 2020, that would include increased remote control and sensor technology of the grid, integration investments in connection with DER bi-directional energy flows and voltage fluctuations, advanced grid data analytics, grid storage that enables renewable integration, expanded infrastructure for light, medium, and heavy-duty EVs, transmission integration for renewables, and energy efficiency and demand response programs. In addition, these changes brought about by technological advancements and climate policy may cause a reduction in natural gas usage and increase natural gas costs. The combination of reduced natural gas load and increased costs could result in higher natural gas customer bills and potential cost recovery risk.


For more information about the factors and risks that could affect PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, and cash flows, or that could cause future results to differ from historical results, see “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in the 20162017 Form 10-K and in Part II below under “Item 1A. Risk Factors.”  In addition, this quarterly report contains forward-looking statements that are necessarily subject to various risks and uncertainties.  These statements reflect management’s judgment and opinions that are based on current estimates, expectations, and projections about future events and assumptions regarding these events and management’s knowledge of facts as of the date of this report.  See the section entitled “Forward-Looking Statements” below for a list of some of the factors that may cause actual results to differ materially.  PG&E Corporation and the Utility are not able to predict all the factors that may affect future results and do not undertake an obligation to update forward-looking statements, whether in response to new information, future events, or otherwise.



RESULTS OF OPERATIONS


PG&E Corporation


The consolidated results of operations consist primarily of results related to the Utility, which are discussed in the “Utility” section below.  The following table provides a summary of net income (loss) available for common shareholders for the three and ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and 2016:

 

Three Months Ended September 30,

 

Nine Months Ended September 30,

(in millions)

2017

 

2016

 

2017

 

2016

Consolidated Total

$ 

550 

 

$ 

388 

 

$ 

1,532 

 

$ 

701 

PG&E Corporation

 

40 

 

 

2 

 

 

51 

 

 

5 

Utility

$ 

510 

 

$ 

386 

 

$ 

1,481 

 

$ 

696 

2017:

 Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30,
(in millions)2018 2017 2018 2017
Consolidated Total$(984) $406
 $(542) $982
PG&E Corporation(4) 1
 (11) 11
Utility$(980) $405
 $(531) $971



PG&E Corporation’s net income (loss) primarily consists of income taxes and interest expense on long-term debt.  The increasedecreases in PG&E Corporation’s net income for the three and ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017, respectively,2018 as compared to the same periods in 2016 is2017 are primarily due to the impact of the San Bruno Derivative Litigation, partially offset by additional income tax expense and interest expense.

taxes.


Utility


The tables below show certain items from the Utility’s Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income for the three and ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and 2016.2017.  The tables separately identify the revenues and costs that impacted earnings from those that did not impact earnings.  In general, expenses the Utility is authorized to pass through directly to customers (such as costs to purchase electricity and natural gas, as well as costs to fund public purpose programs), and the corresponding amount of revenues collected to recover those pass-through costs, do not impact earnings.  In addition, expenses that have been specifically authorized (such as the payment of pension costs) and the corresponding revenues the Utility is authorized to collect to recover such costs do not impact earnings.


Revenues that impact earnings are primarily those that have been authorized by the CPUC and the FERC to recover the Utility’s costs to own and operate its assets and to provide the Utility an opportunity to earn its authorized rate of return on rate base.  Expenses that impact earnings are primarily those that the Utility incurs to own and operate its assets.


49


 Three Months Ended June 30, 2018 Three Months Ended June 30, 2017
 Revenues/Costs: Revenues/Costs:
(in millions)That Impacted Earnings That Did Not Impact Earnings Total Utility That Impacted Earnings That Did Not Impact Earnings Total Utility
Electric operating revenues$1,979
 $1,333
 $3,312
 $1,948
 $1,376
 $3,324
Natural gas operating revenues752
 170
 922
 760
 166
 926
   Total operating revenues2,731
 1,503
 4,234
 2,708
 1,542
 4,250
Cost of electricity
 963
 963
 
 1,123
 1,123
Cost of natural gas
 79
 79
 
 121
 121
Operating and maintenance 
1,244
 542
 1,786
 1,293
 311
 1,604
Wildfire-related claims, net of insurance recoveries2,125
 
 2,125
 (46) 
 (46)
Depreciation, amortization, and decommissioning746
 
 746
 712
 
 712
   Total operating expenses4,115
 1,584
 5,699
 1,959
 1,555
 3,514
Operating income (loss)(1,384) (81) (1,465) 749
 (13) 736
Interest income 
11
 
 11
 7
 
 7
Interest expense 
(222) 
 (222) (222) 
 (222)
Other income, net 
27
 81
 108
 11
 13
 24
Income (loss) before income taxes$(1,568) $
 $(1,568) $545
 $
 $545
Income tax provision (benefit) (1)
    (592)     136
Net income (loss)    (976)     409
Preferred stock dividend requirement (1)
    4
     4
Income (Loss) Available for Common Stock    $(980)     $405
            


 

Three Months Ended September 30, 2017

 

Three Months Ended September 30, 2016

 

Revenues/Costs:

 

 

 

 

Revenues/Costs:

 

 

 

(in millions)

That Impacted Earnings

That Did Not Impact Earnings

Total Utility

 

That Impacted Earnings

That Did Not Impact Earnings

Total Utility

Electric operating revenues

$

2,002 

$

1,645 

$

3,647 

 

$

2,086 

$

1,907 

$

3,993 

Natural gas operating revenues

 

722 

 

147 

 

869 

 

 

621 

 

195 

 

816 

Total operating revenues

 

2,724 

 

1,792 

 

4,516 

 

 

2,707 

 

2,102 

 

4,809 

Cost of electricity

 

- 

 

1,466 

 

1,466 

 

 

- 

 

1,613 

 

1,613 

Cost of natural gas

 

- 

 

78 

 

78 

 

 

- 

 

80 

 

80 

Operating and maintenance

 

1,180 

 

248 

 

1,428 

 

 

1,373 

 

409 

 

1,782 

Depreciation, amortization, and decommissioning

 

710 

 

- 

 

710 

 

 

694 

 

- 

 

694 

Total operating expenses

 

1,890 

 

1,792 

 

3,682 

 

 

2,067 

 

2,102 

 

4,169 

Operating income

 

834 

 

- 

 

834 

 

 

640 

 

- 

 

640 

Interest income (1)

 

 

 

 

 

10 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8 

Interest expense (1)

 

 

 

 

 

(217)

 

 

 

 

 

 

(209)

Other income, net (1)

 

 

 

 

 

24 

 

 

 

 

 

 

23 

Income before income taxes

 

 

 

 

 

651 

 

 

 

 

 

 

462 

Income tax provision (1)

 

 

 

 

 

138 

 

 

 

 

 

 

73 

Net income

 

 

 

 

 

513 

 

 

 

 

 

 

389 

Preferred stock dividend requirement (1)

 

 

 

 

 

3 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3 

Income Available for Common Stock

 

 

 

 

$

510 

 

 

 

 

 

$

386 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1)These items impacted earnings for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and 2016.2017.

 

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017

 

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016

 

Revenues/Costs:

 

 

 

 

Revenues/Costs:

 

 

 

(in millions)

That Impacted Earnings

That Did Not Impact Earnings

Total Utility

 

That Impacted Earnings

That Did Not Impact Earnings

Total Utility

Electric operating revenues

$

5,933 

$

4,105 

$

10,038 

 

$

5,996 

$

4,594 

$

10,590 

Natural gas operating revenues

 

2,261 

 

738 

 

2,999 

 

 

1,670 

 

693 

 

2,363 

Total operating revenues

 

8,194 

 

4,843 

 

13,037 

 

 

7,666 

 

5,287 

 

12,953 

Cost of electricity

 

- 

 

3,436 

 

3,436 

 

 

- 

 

3,719 

 

3,719 

Cost of natural gas

 

- 

 

524 

 

524 

 

 

- 

 

377 

 

377 

Operating and maintenance

 

3,594 

 

883 

 

4,477 

 

 

4,439 

 

1,191 

 

5,630 

Depreciation, amortization, and decommissioning

 

2,134 

 

- 

 

2,134 

 

 

2,090 

 

- 

 

2,090 

Total operating expenses

 

5,728 

 

4,843 

 

10,571 

 

 

6,529 

 

5,287 

 

11,816 

Operating income

 

2,466 

 

- 

 

2,466 

 

 

1,137 

 

- 

 

1,137 

Interest income (1)

 

 

 

 

 

22 

 

 

 

 

 

 

16 

Interest expense (1)

 

 

 

 

 

(655)

 

 

 

 

 

 

(614)

Other income, net (1)

 

 

 

 

 

52 

 

 

 

 

 

 

68 

Income before income taxes

 

 

 

 

 

1,885 

 

 

 

 

 

 

607 

Income tax provision (benefit) (1)

 

 

 

 

 

394 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(99)

Net income

 

 

 

 

 

1,491 

 

 

 

 

 

 

706 

Preferred stock dividend requirement (1)

 

 

 

 

 

10 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10 

Income Available for Common Stock

 

 

 

 

$

1,481 

 

 

 

 

 

$

696 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 




 Six Months Ended June 30, 2018 Six Months Ended June 30, 2017
 Revenues/Costs: Revenues/Costs:
(in millions)That Impacted Earnings That Did Not Impact Earnings Total Utility That Impacted Earnings That Did Not Impact Earnings Total Utility
Electric operating revenues$3,915
 $2,348
 $6,263
 $3,930
 $2,461
 $6,391
Natural gas operating revenues1,490
 537
 2,027
 1,539
 591
 2,130
Total operating revenues5,405
 2,885
 8,290
 5,469
 3,052
 8,521
Cost of electricity
 1,782
 1,782
 
 1,970
 1,970
Cost of natural gas
 368
 368
 
 446
 446
Operating and maintenance2,494
 896
 3,390
 2,466
 663
 3,129
Wildfire-related claims, net of insurance recoveries2,118
 
 2,118
 (53) 
 (53)
Depreciation, amortization, and decommissioning1,498
 
 1,498
 1,424
 
 1,424
Total operating expenses6,110
 3,046
 9,156
 3,837
 3,079
 6,916
Operating income (loss)(705) (161) (866) 1,632
 (27) 1,605
Interest income20
 
 20
 12
 
 12
Interest expense(439) 
 (439) (438) 
 (438)
Other income, net56
 161
 217
 28
 27
 55
Income (loss) before income taxes$(1,068) $
 $(1,068) $1,234
 $
 $1,234
Income tax provision (benefit) (1)
    (544)     256
Net income (loss)    (524)     978
Preferred stock dividend requirement (1)
    7
     7
Income (Loss) Available for Common Stock    $(531)     $971
            
(1) These items impacted earnings for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and 2016.2017.


Utility Revenues and Costs that Impacted Earnings


The following discussion presents the Utility’s operating results for the three and ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 and 2016,2017, focusing on revenues and expenses that impacted earnings for these periods. 


50



Operating Revenues


The Utility’s electric and natural gas operating revenues that impacted earnings increased by $17$23 million, or 1%, and by $528 million, or 7%, in the three and nine months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017, respectively,2018, compared to the same periodsperiod in 20162017. The Utility’s electric and natural gas operating revenues that impacted earnings decreased by $64 million, or 1%, in the six months ended June 30, 2018, compared to the same period in 2017, primarily due to additional$102 million in retroactive base revenues authorized by the CPUC in the 2015 GT&S rate case and the 2017 GRC, and by the FERCrecognized in the TO rate case. 

The final 2015 GT&S rate case decision authorizedsix months ended June 30, 2017, with no similar revenues recorded in the Utility to collect, over a 36-monthsame period the difference between adopted revenue requirements and amounts previously collected in rates, retroactive to January 1, 2015, beginning August 1, 2016. Accounting rules allow the Utility to recognize revenues in a given year only if they will be collected from customers within 24 months of the end of that year. As a result, the Utility recognized $102 million in January 2017 related to remaining retroactive revenues that had not previously been recognized.

2018.


Operating and Maintenance


The Utility’s operating and maintenance expenses that impacted earnings decreased by $193$49 million, or 14%4%, in the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018, compared to the same period in 2016.  During2017, primarily due to the expected cost recovery of insurance premiums incurred above authorized levels of $69 million recorded in the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2016, the Utility recorded $241 million in disallowed charges related to the 2015 GT&S rate case and the San Bruno Penalty Decision with no similar charges in the same period of 2017.  The Utility also recorded $297 million in insurance recoveries for the three months ended September 30, 2017 related to the Butte fire,2018, with no similar recoveries for the same period in 2016.  These decreases were partially offset by $352 million in higher charges related to the Butte fire (in the three months ended September 30, 2017, the Utility recorded $368 million in charges as compared to $16 million in the same period in 2016). 

The Utility’s operating and maintenance expenses that impacted earnings decreased by $845 million, or 19%, in the nine months ended September 30, 2017 compared to the same period in 2016.  For the nine months ended September 30, 2017,2017. Additionally, the Utility recorded $429 million fewer disallowed charges (in the nine months ended September 30, 2017, the Utility incurred a $47 million disallowance related to the Diablo Canyon settlement as compared to $476 million of disallowed capitalin the three months ended June 30, 2017, with no corresponding charges related to the San Bruno Penalty Decision and 2015 GT&S rate case decision during the same period in 2016)2018. These decreases were partially offset by Northern California wildfire-related legal and $51other costs of $46 million and clean-up and repair costs of $40 million in lowerthe three months ended June 30, 2018, with no similar charges in the same period in 2017, as well as additional costs related to higher premiums for liability insurance incurred during the three months ended June 30, 2018, as compared to the same period in 2017.



The Utility’s operating and maintenance expenses that impacted earnings increased by $28 million, or 1%, in the six months ended June 30, 2018, compared to the same period in 2017, primarily due to Northern California wildfire-related legal and other costs of $68 million and clean-up and repair costs of $40 million in the six months ended June 30, 2018, with no similar charges in the same period in 2017, an increase in environmental remediation expenses at the San Francisco Potrero Power Plant of approximately $40 million in the six months ended June 30, 2018, as compared to the same period in 2017, as well as additional costs related to higher premiums for liability insurance incurred during the six months ended June 30, 2018, as compared to the same period in 2017. These increases were partially offset by the expected cost recovery of insurance premiums incurred above authorized levels of $69 million recorded in the six months ended June 30, 2018, with no similar recoveries recorded in the same period in 2017. Additionally, the Utility recorded a $47 million disallowance related to the Diablo Canyon settlement in the six months ended June 30, 2017, with no corresponding charges during the same period in 2018.

Wildfire-related claims, net of insurance recoveries

Costs related to wildfires that impacted earnings increased by $2.2 billion in the three and six months ended June 30, 2018, compared to the same periods in 2017 primarily due to a pre-tax charge of $2.5 billion, offset by probable insurance recoveries of $375 million associated with the Northern California wildfires, compared to insurance recoveries of $46 million and $53 million, respectively, related to the Butte fire (in the nine months ended September 30, 2017, the Utility recorded $395 million in charges as compared to $446 million in the same periodperiods in 2016) (see2017.

The Utility’s financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, and cash flows could be materially affected by additional potential losses resulting from the impact of the Northern California wildfires and any additional charges associated with costs related to the Butte fire.  (See “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in the 2017 Form 10-K and in Part II below under “Item 1A. Risk Factors,” as well as Note 9 of the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements).  Additionally, insurance recoveries related to the Butte fire increased by approximately $90 million (in the nine months ended September 30, 2017, the Utility recorded $350 millionStatements in insurance recoveries as compared to approximately $260 million in the same period in 2016).

The Utility’s future financial statements will continue to be impacted by unrecoverable pipeline-related expenses.  Additionally, the Utility expects to incur approximately $100 million in 2017 related to reinstatementItem 1 of a portion of its liability insurance and legal costs related to the Northern California wildfires.  (See “Key Factors Affecting Financial Results” above and Note 9 of the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.this Form 10-Q.)  Additionally, the Utility’s financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, and cash flows could be materially adversely affected by potential losses resulting from the impact of the Northern California wildfires (See Item 1A. Risk Factors below and Note 10 of the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements)  and any additional charges associated with the costs related to the Butte fire.


Depreciation, Amortization, and Decommissioning


The Utility’s depreciation, amortization, and decommissioning expenses that impacted earnings increased by $16$34 million, or 2%5%, and by $44$74 million, or 2%5%, in the three and ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018, respectively, compared to the same periods in 20162017, primarily due to capital additions and higher depreciation rates as authorized in the 2017 GRC and capital additions.

Interest Expense

The Utility’s interest expense for the periods presented increased by $8 million, or 4%, and by $41 million, or 7%, in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017, respectively, as compared to the same periods in 2016.  These increases were primarily due to higher levels of long term debt and short term borrowings in 2017 compared to 2016.

GRC.


Interest Income and Other Income, Net

Interest Expense


There were no material changes to interest income and other income, netinterest expense that impacted earnings for the periods presented.


51

Other Income, Net

There were no material changes to other income, net, that impacted earnings for the periods presented.


Income Tax Provision


The income tax provision increaseddecreased by $65$728 million and $800 million, in the three and six months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018, respectively, as compared to the same periodperiods in 2016.2017.  The effective tax rates for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2018 and 2017 were 37.9% and 2016 were 21% and 16%25.1%, respectively.  The increases in the income tax provision and the effective tax rate primarily resulted from higher pre-tax income in 2017 as compared to 2016 and lower repairs deductions in the three months ended September 30, 2017 compared to the same period in 2016.

The income tax provision increased by $493 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2017 as compared to the same period in 2016.  The effective tax rates for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2018 and 2017 were 51.0% and 2016 were 21% and (16%)20.7%, respectively. The increasedecreases in the income tax provisionprovisions and increases in the effective tax raterates were primarily resulted from higherthe result of pre-tax incomelosses in 2018 versus pre-tax incomes in 2017, partially offset by a decrease in the corporate income tax rate from 35% to 21% as compareda result of the Tax Act.




The following table reconciles the income tax expense at the federal statutory rate to 2016the income tax provision:
 Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30,
 2018 2017 2018 2017
Federal statutory income tax rate21.0% 35.0 % 21.0% 35.0 %
Increase (decrease) in income tax rate resulting from:       
State income tax (net of federal benefit) (1)
8.6% 3.0 % 11.5% 2.3 %
Effect of regulatory treatment of fixed asset differences (2)
6.2% (12.6)% 16.8% (12.9)%
Tax credits0.2% (2.5)% 0.6% (1.3)%
Other, net (3)
1.9% 2.2 % 1.1% (2.4)%
Effective tax rate37.9% 25.1 % 51.0% 20.7 %
        
(1) Includes the effect of state flow-through ratemaking treatment.
(2) Includes the effect of federal flow-through ratemaking treatment for certain property-related costs as authorized by the 2014 GRC decision (impacting the three and six months ended June 30, 2017) and the 2017 GRC decision (impacting the three and six months ended June 30, 2018), and by the 2015 GT&S decision (impacting the three and six months ended June 30, 2017, and 2018, respectively).  All amounts are impacted by the level of income before income taxes.  The 2014 GRC, 2017 GRC, and 2015 GT&S rate case decisions authorized revenue requirements that reflect flow-through ratemaking for temporary income tax differences attributable to repair costs and certain other property-related costs for federal tax purposes.  For these temporary tax differences, PG&E Corporation and the Utility recognize the deferred tax impact in the current period and record offsetting regulatory assets and liabilities.  Therefore, PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s effective tax rates are impacted as these differences arise and reverse.  PG&E Corporation and the Utility recognize such differences as regulatory assets or liabilities as it is probable that these amounts will be recovered from or returned to customers in future rates.  The amounts for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018 also reflect the impact of audit settlements during the nineamortization of excess deferred tax benefits to be refunded to customers as a result of the Tax Act passed in December of 2017. 
(3)  Amounts for the three months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20162018 primarily represent the impact of income taxes related to share-based compensation adjustments associated with no similar settlements during the same period in 2017.

ASU 2016-09, Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting.


Utility Revenues and Costs that did not Impact Earnings


Fluctuations in revenues that did not impact earnings are primarily driven by electricity and natural gas procurement costs.  See below for more information.

Cost of Electricity


The Utility’s cost of electricity includes the cost of power purchased from third parties (including renewable energy resources), transmission, fuel used in its own generation facilities, fuel supplied to other facilities under power purchase agreements, costs to comply with California’s cap-and-trade program, and realized gains and losses on price risk management activities.  (See Note 7 of the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.Statements in Item 1.)  

 

Three Months Ended September 30,

 

Nine Months Ended September 30,

(in millions)

2017

 

2016

 

2017

 

2016

Cost of purchased power

$

1,392 

 

$

1,541 

 

$

3,255 

 

$

3,540 

Fuel used in own generation facilities

 

74 

 

 

72 

 

 

181 

 

 

179 

Total cost of electricity

$

1,466 

 

$

1,613 

 

$

3,436 

 

$

3,719 

Average cost of purchased power per kWh (1)

$

0.151 

 

$

0.123 

 

$

0.126 

 

$

0.110 

Total purchased power (in millions of kWh) (2)

 

9,189 

 

 

12,560 

 

 

25,905 

 

 

32,327 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Utility’s total purchased power is driven by customer demand, the availability of the Utility’s own generation facilities (including Diablo Canyon and its hydroelectric plants), and the cost-effectiveness of each source of electricity.

 Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30,
(in millions)2018 2017 2018 2017
Cost of purchased power$919
 $1,079
 $1,672
 $1,863
Fuel used in own generation facilities44
 44
 110
 107
Total cost of electricity$963
 $1,123
 $1,782
 $1,970
Average cost of purchased power per kWh (1)
$0.125
 $0.114
 $0.124
 $0.111
Total purchased power (in millions of kWh) (2)
7,333
 9,425
 13,443
 16,716
        
(1)Average cost of purchased power was impacted primarily by lower Utility electric customer demand, due to their departuredriven by customer departures to CCAs or direct access providers, and a larger percentage of higher cost renewable energy resources being allocated to the fewer remaining Utility electric customers.  See further discussion in MD&A, “Regulatory Matters“Legislative and Regulatory Initiatives - Power Charge Indifference Adjustment OIR”,OIR,” below.  

(2) The decrease in purchased power for the three and ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 compared to the same periodsperiod in 20162017 was primarily due to lower Utility electric customer demand and an increase in generation from hydroelectric facilities. demand.

The Utility’s total purchased power is driven by customer demand, the availability of the Utility’s own generation facilities (including Diablo Canyon and its hydroelectric plants), regulatory requirements to procure certain types of energy, and the cost-effectiveness of each source of electricity.


52




Cost of Natural Gas


The Utility’s cost of natural gas includes the costs of procurement, storage and transportation of natural gas, costs to comply with California’s cap-and-trade program, and realized gains and losses on price risk management activities.  (See Note 7 of the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.Statements in Item 1.)  The Utility’s cost of natural gas is impacted by the market price of natural gas, changes in the cost of storage and transportation, and changes in customer demand. 

 

Three Months Ended September 30,

 

Nine Months Ended September 30,

(in millions)

2017

 

2016

 

2017

 

2016

Cost of natural gas sold

$

50 

 

$

50 

 

$

436 

 

$

275 

Transportation cost of natural gas sold

 

28 

 

 

30 

 

 

88 

 

 

102 

Total cost of natural gas

$

78 

 

$

80 

 

$

524 

 

$

377 

Average cost per Mcf (1) of natural gas sold

$

1.85 

 

$

1.79 

 

$

2.71 

 

$

1.88 

Total natural gas sold (in millions of Mcf) (2)

 

27 

 

 

28 

 

 

161 

 

 

146 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30,
(in millions)2018 2017 2018 2017
Cost of natural gas sold$53
 $93
 $310
 $386
Transportation cost of natural gas sold26
 28
 58
 60
Total cost of natural gas$79
 $121
 $368
 $446
Average cost per Mcf (1) of natural gas sold
$1.20
 $2.27
 $2.40
 $2.88
Total natural gas sold (in millions of Mcf)44
 41
 129
 134
        
(1)One thousand cubic feet

(2) The increase in natural gas sold for the nine months ended September 30, 2017, compared to the same period in 2016, was primarily due to cooler temperatures and resulted in additional customer heating demand.


Operating and Maintenance Expenses


The Utility’s operating expenses alsothat did not impact earnings include certain recoverable costs that the Utility incursis authorized to recover as part of its operationsincurred such as pension contributions and public purpose programs costs.  If the Utility were to spend overmore than authorized amounts, these expenses could have an impact onto earnings.


Other Income, Net

The Utility’s other income, net that did not impact earnings includes pension and other post-retirement benefit costs that fluctuate primarily from market and interest rate changes.

LIQUIDITY AND FINANCIAL RESOURCES


Overview


The Utility’s ability to fund operations, finance capital expenditures, make scheduled principal and interest payments, and make distributions to PG&E Corporation depends on the levels of its operating cash flows and access to the capital and credit markets.  The CPUC authorizes the Utility’s capital structure, the aggregate amount of long-term and short-term debt that the Utility may issue, and the revenue requirements the Utility is able to collect to recover its cost of capital.  The Utility generally utilizes equity contributions from PG&E Corporation and long-term senior unsecured debt issuances to maintain its CPUC-authorized capital structure consisting of 52% equity and 48% debt and preferred stock.  The Utility relies on short-term debt, including commercial paper, to fund temporary financing needs. 


PG&E Corporation’s ability to fund operations, make scheduled principal and interest payments, fund equity contributions to the Utility, and declare and pay dividends primarily depends on the level of cash distributions received from the Utility and PG&E Corporation’s access to the capital and credit markets.  PG&E Corporation’s equity contributions to the Utility are funded primarily through common stock issuances. PG&E Corporation has material stand-alone cash flows related to the issuance of equity and long-term debt, dividend payments, and issuances and repayments under its revolving credit facility and commercial paper program.  PG&E Corporation relies on short-term debt, including commercial paper, to fund temporary financing needs.   




PG&E Corporation’s equity contributionsand the Utility’s credit ratings may be affected by the ultimate outcome of pending enforcement and litigation matters, including the outcome of the uncertainties and potential liabilities associated with the Northern California wildfires. Credit rating downgrades may increase the cost and availability of short-term borrowing, including commercial paper, the costs associated with credit facilities, and long-term debt costs. In addition, some of the Utility’s commodity contracts contain collateral posting provisions tied to the Utility are funded primarily through common stock issuances.Utility’s credit rating from each of the major credit rating agencies. During the first quarter of 2018, Fitch Ratings, S&P Global Ratings, and Moody’s Investors Service, Inc. downgraded PG&E Corporation forecasts thatCorporation’s and the Utility’s credit ratings. During the second quarter of 2018, S&P Global Ratings further downgraded PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s credit ratings. At June 30, 2018, PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s credit ratings remained at investment grade levels. If the Utility’s credit rating were to fall below investment grade, the Utility estimates it will have issued between $400 million and $500would be required to fully collateralize up to $800 million in common stock bynet liability positions. If both S&P Global Ratings and Moody's Investors Service, Inc. downgraded the endUtility below investment grade or if the Utility were downgraded further, the Utility could be required to post additional collateral for other obligations. (See Note 7 and Note 9 of 2017, primarily to fund equity contributionsthe Notes to the Utility.Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 1.) 

PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s equity needs could increase materially and its liquidity and cash flows could be materially affected by potential costs and other liabilities in connection with the Northern California wildfires. The Utility’s equity needs will continue to be affected by the timing and outcomeamount of unrecoverable pipeline-related expenses,disallowed capital expenditures, and by fines, penalties and claims that may be imposed in connection with the matters described in “EnforcementNote 9 of the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 1, “Part II. Other Information, Item 1. Legal Proceedings,” and Litigation Matters” below.in the 2017 Form 10-K. In addition, PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s equity needs could be materially increased and its liquidity and cash flows materially adversely affected by potential costs and other liabilities in connection with the Northern California wildfires. PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s ability to access the capital markets in a manner consistent with its past practices, if at all, could be adversely affected by such matters. (See Item“Item 1A. Risk FactorsFactors” in thisthe 2017 Form 10-Q.10-K and in Part II below under “Item 1A. Risk Factors”.)


Cash and Cash Equivalents


Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash and short-term, highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less.  PG&E Corporation and the Utility maintain separate bank accounts and primarily invest their cash in money market funds. 


Financial Resources


Financial Resources

Debt and Equity Financings

In February 2017, PG&E Corporation amended its February 2015 EDA providing for the sale of PG&E Corporation common stock having an aggregate gross price of up to $275 million.  During the nine months ended September 30, 2017, PG&E Corporation sold 0.4 million shares of its common stock under the February 2017 EDA for cash proceeds of $28.4 million, net of commissions paid of $0.2 million.  


There were no issuances under the PG&E Corporation February 2017 EDAequity distribution agreement for the threesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017.2018.  As of SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, the remaining gross salesamount available under this agreement werewas $246.3 million.


PG&E Corporation also issued common stock under the PG&E Corporation 401(k) plan the Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan, and share-based compensation plans. During the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017, 6.42018, 2.3 million shares were issued for cash proceeds of $316$82.3 million under these plans.

The proceeds from these sales were used for general corporate purposes, includingpurposes.


During the contributionfirst quarter of equity to the Utility.  For the nine months ended September 30, 2017, PG&E Corporation made equity contributions to2018, the Utility satisfied and discharged its remaining obligation of $405 million.

$400 million aggregate principal amount of the 8.25% Senior Notes due October 15, 2018.


In February 2017,2018, the Utility’s $250 million floating rate unsecured term loan, issued in March 2016,February 2017, matured and was repaid. Additionally, in February 2017,2018, the Utility entered into a $250 million floating rate unsecured term loan that matureswill mature on February 22, 2018. In March 2017, the Utility issued $400 million principal amount of 3.30% Senior Notes due March 15, 2027 and $200 million principal amount of 4.00% Senior Notes due December 1, 2046.2019.  The proceeds were used for general corporate purposes, including the repayment of a portion of the Utility’s outstanding commercial paper.

Pollution Control Bonds


In June 2017,April 2018, PG&E Corporation entered into a $350 million floating rate unsecured term loan. The term loan will mature on April 16, 2020, unless extended by PG&E Corporation pursuant to the Utility repurchased and retired $345terms of the term loan agreement. The proceeds were used for general corporate purposes, including the early redemption of PG&E Corporation’s outstanding $350 million principal amount of pollution control2.40% Senior Notes due March 1, 2019. On April 26, 2018, PG&E Corporation completed the early redemption of these bonds, Series 2004 A through D.  Additionally, in June 2017, the Utility remarketed three serieswhich satisfied and discharged its remaining obligation of pollution control bonds, previously held in treasury, totaling $145 million in principal amount. Series 2008 F and 2010 E bear interest at 1.75% per annum and mature on November 1, 2026. Series 2008 G bears interest at 1.05% per annum and matures on December 1, 2018.

$350 million.




Revolving Credit Facilities and Commercial Paper Programs

In May 2017, PG&E Corporation and the Utility each extended the termination dates of their existing revolving credit facilities by one year from April 27, 2021 to April 27, 2022. 


At SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, PG&E Corporation and the Utility had $300$250 million and $2.6$2.3 billion available under their respective $300 million and $3.0 billion revolving credit facilities.  For the six months ended June 30, 2018, the average outstanding borrowings under PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s revolving credit facilities were $62 million and $281 million, respectively, and the maximum outstanding borrowings were $125 million and $650 million, respectively. At June 30, 2018, PG&E Corporation and the Utility had outstanding borrowings of $50 million and $650 million, respectively, under their respective revolving credit facilities. (See Note 4 of the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.Statements in Item 1.)


PG&E Corporation and the Utility are permitted under the terms of its facilities tocan issue commercial paper up to the maximum amounts of $300 million and $2.5 billion, respectively.  For the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, PG&E Corporation and the Utility had an average outstanding commercial paper balance of $70$58 million and $552$16 million, respectively, and a maximum outstanding balance of $161$137 million and $1.1 billion,$205 million, respectively.  At SeptemberJune 30, 2017, the Utility had an outstanding commercial paper balance of $369 million and2018, PG&E Corporation and the Utility did not have any outstanding commercial paper outstanding.

paper.


The revolving credit facilities require that PG&E Corporation and the Utility maintain a ratio of total consolidated debt to total consolidated capitalization of at most 65% as of the end of each fiscal quarter.  At SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s total consolidated debt to total consolidated capitalization was 49%51% and 48%50%, respectively.  PG&E Corporation’s revolving credit facility agreement also requires that PG&E Corporation own, directly or indirectly, at least 80% of the common stock and at least 70% of the voting capital stock of the Utility.  In addition, the revolving credit facilities include usual and customary provisions regarding events of default and covenants including covenants limiting liens to those permitted under PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s senior note indentures, mergers, and imposing conditions on the sale of all or substantially all of PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s assets and other fundamental changes.  At SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, PG&E Corporation and the Utility were in compliance with all covenants under their respective revolving credit facilities.


54

Dividends


Dividends

In MayOn December 20, 2017, the BoardBoards of Directors of PG&E Corporation approved a new annualand the Utility suspended quarterly cash dividends on both PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s common stock, cash dividendbeginning the fourth quarter of $2.12 per share ($0.53 per share quarterly), an increase from2017, as well as the previous annual cash dividendUtility’s preferred stock, beginning the three-month period ending January 31, 2018, due to the uncertainty related to the causes of $1.96 per share ($0.49 per share quarterly), and potential liabilities associated with the Board of DirectorsNorthern California wildfires. (See Note 9 of the Utility approved a new annual common stock cash dividend of $1.08 billion ($270 million quarterly), an increase fromNotes to the previous annual cash dividend of $976 million ($244 million quarterly).

In September 2017, the Board of Directors of PG&E Corporation declared quarterly dividends of $0.53 per share, totaling $272 million, of which approximately $267 million was paid on October 15, 2017, to shareholders of record on September 29, 2017. 

Additionally,Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in September 2017, the Board of Directors of the Utility declared a common stock dividend of $270 million that was paid to PG&E Corporation on September 21, 2017 and declared dividends on its outstanding series of preferred stock, payable on November 15, 2017, to shareholders of record on October 31, 2017.

Item 1.)


Utility Cash Flows


The Utility’s cash flows were as follows:

 

Nine Months Ended September 30,

(in millions)

2017

 

2016

Net cash provided by operating activities

$

4,692 

 

$

3,241 

Net cash used in investing activities

 

(3,950)

 

 

(4,083)

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

 

(743)

 

 

851 

Net change in cash and cash equivalents

$

(1)

 

$

9 

 Six Months Ended June 30,
(in millions)2018 2017
Net cash provided by operating activities$2,722
 $2,824
Net cash used in investing activities(2,895) (2,489)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities210
 (349)
Net change in cash and cash equivalents$37
 $(14)



Operating Activities


The Utility’s cash flows from operating activities primarily consist of receipts from customers less payments of operating expenses, other than expenses such as depreciation that do not require the use of cash.  These items fluctuate within the normal course of business due to the timing and amount of customer billings and collections and vendor billings and payments.

During the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, net cash provided by operating activities increaseddecreased by $1.5 billion$102 million compared to the same period in 2016.2017.  This increasedecrease was primarily due to additional electric and natural gas operating revenues collected as authorized by the CPUC in the 2015 GT&S rate case and by the FERC in the TO rate case and the $400 million refund to natural gas customers in the second quarter of 2016, as required by the San Bruno Penalty Decision, with no corresponding activity in 2017.  The remaining increase was primarily due to fluctuations in activities within the normal course of business such as the timing and amount of customer billings and collections and vendor billings and payments.


55



Future cash flow from operating activities will be affected by various factors, including:


the timing and amount of costs in connection with the Northern California wildfires including costs in connection with restoration(and the timing and amount of service to customers and repairs of the Utility’s facilities,related insurance recoveries), as well as additional potential liabilities in connection with third-party claims and fines or penalties that could be imposed on the Utility if the CPUC or any other law enforcement agency brought an enforcement action and determined that the Utility failed to comply with applicable laws and regulations;


the timing and amounts of costs, including fines and penalties, that may be incurred in connection with the current and future enforcement, litigation, and regulatory matters, including the impact of the Butte fire and the timing and amount of related insurance recoveries, the safety culture OII, including other ratemaking tools that could be imposed by the CPUC as a result of the phase two of the proceeding, the outcome of phase two of the ex parte OII, and the related proposed decision, costs associated with potential recommendations that the third-party monitor may make related to the Utility’s conviction in the federal criminal trial, and potential penalties in connection with the Utility’s safety and other self-reports;

  • the timing and amount of premium payments related to wildfire insurance (see “Wildfire Insurance” in Note 9 of the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 1 for more information);

    the Tax Act, which is expected to accelerate the timing of federal tax payments and reduce revenue requirements, resulting in lower operating cash flows (see “Overview” above and “Regulatory Matters” below for more information);

    the timing and outcomes of the 2020 GRC, 2019 GT&S rate case, FERC TO18 and TO19 rate cases, 2018 CEMA filing, and other ratemaking and regulatory proceedings;


    the timing of the resolution of the Chapter 11 disputed claims and the amount of principal and interest on these claims that the Utility will be required to pay.


    Investing Activities

    During the nine months ended September 30, 2017, net


    Net cash used in investing activities decreasedincreased by $133$406 million during the six months ended June 30, 2018 as compared to the same period in 2016.2017 primarily due to an increase in capital expenditures of approximately $420 million. The Utility’s investing activities primarily consist of the construction of new and replacement facilities necessary to provide safe and reliable electricity and natural gas services to its customers.  Cash used in investing activities also includes the proceeds from sales of nuclear decommissioning trust investments which are largely offset by the amount of cash used to purchase new nuclear decommissioning trust investments.  The funds in the decommissioning trusts, along with accumulated earnings, are used exclusively for decommissioning and dismantling the Utility’s nuclear generation facilities.


    The Utility’s capital expenditures were approximately $5.7 billion in 2017. Future cash flows used in investing activities are largely dependent on the timing and amount of capital expenditures.  The Utility estimates that it will incur approximately $5.7$6.3 billion in capital expenditures in 2017, $6.3 billion in 2018, and $6.0 billion in 2019.


    Financing Activities


    Net cash provided by financing activities decreasedincreased by $1.6 billion from $851$559 million forduring the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20162018 as compared to $743the same period in 2017.  This increase was primarily due to $650 million in borrowings under the Utility’s revolving credit facility and the suspension of net cash useddividend payments (see “Dividends” section above), partially offset by a decrease in financing activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2017.  long-term debt proceeds.



    Cash provided by or used in financing activities is driven by the Utility’s financing needs, which depend on the level of cash provided by or used in operating activities, the level of cash provided by or used in investing activities, the conditions in the capital markets, and the maturity date of existing debt instruments.  The Utility generally utilizes long-term debt issuances and equity contributions from PG&E Corporation to maintain its CPUC-authorized capital structure, and relies on short-term debt to fund temporary financing needs.


    ENFORCEMENT AND LITIGATION MATTERS


    PG&E Corporation and the Utility have significant contingencies arising from their operations, including contingencies related to the enforcement and litigation matters described in Note 9 and subsequent events described in Note 10 of the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.Statements in Item 1.  The outcome of these matters, individually or in the aggregate, could have a material effect on PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s future financial results.  condition, results of operations, and cash flows. In addition, PG&E Corporation and the Utility are involved in other enforcement and litigation matters described in the 20162017 Form 10-K and “Part II. Other Information, Item 1. Legal Proceedings.”


    56



    Department of Interior Inquiry

    In September 2015, the Utility was notified that the DOI had initiated an inquiry into whether the Utility should be suspended or debarred from entering into federal procurement and non-procurement contracts and programs citing the San Bruno explosion and indicating, as the basis for the inquiry, alleged poor record-keeping, poor identification and evaluation of threats to gas lines and obstruction of the National Transportation Safety Board’s investigation.  The Utility filed its initial response on November 2, 2015, to demonstrate that it is a “presently responsible” contractor under federal procurement regulations and that it believes suspension or debarment is not appropriate. 

    On December 21, 2016, the Utility and the DOI entered into an interim administrative agreement that reflects the DOI’s determination that the Utility remains eligible to contract with federal government agencies while the DOI determines whether any further action is necessary to protect the federal government’s business interests.  On May 8, 2017, DOI sent a series of follow-up questions to the Utility seeking clarification regarding gas operational matters, the Utility’s risk assessment process, and the Utility’s compliance and ethics framework.  The Utility responded to the questions on August 18, 2017.  DOI also has indicated that before making any final determination in its debarment inquiry it will meet in person with Utility executives to discuss the Utility’s compliance and ethics programs.  That meeting has not yet been scheduled.  The Utility could incur material costs, not recoverable through rates, to implement any remedial and other measures that could be imposed, the amount of which the Utility is currently unable to estimate.

    For more information, see PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s 2016 Form 10-K.

    REGULATORY MATTERS


    The Utility is subject to substantial regulation by the CPUC, the FERC, the NRC and other federal and state regulatory agencies.  SignificantThe resolutions of these and other proceedings may affect PG&E Corporation's and the Utility's financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows. Discussed below are significant regulatory developments that have occurred since filing the 20162017 Form 10-K was filed with the SEC are discussed below.

    10-K.


    2017 General Rate Case


    On May 11, 2017, the CPUC issued a final decision in the Utility’s 2017 GRC, which determined the annual amount of base revenues (or “revenue requirements”) that the Utility is authorized to collect from customers from 2017 through 2019 to recover its anticipated costs for electric distribution, natural gas distribution, and electric generation operations and to provide the Utility an opportunity to earn its authorized rate of return.  The final decision approved, with certain modifications, the settlement agreement that the Utility, the ORA, TURN, and 12 other intervening parties jointly submitted to the CPUC on August 3, 2016 (the “settlement agreement”). Modifications fromConsistent with the amounts proposed in the settlement agreement, to the final decision included a tax memorandum account and approval of a stand-alone application with the CPUC or a filing in the CPUC’s ongoing residential rate reform proceeding to recover customer outreach and other costs incurred as a result of residential rate reform implementation.  The new tax memorandum account will track any revenue differences resulting from changes in income tax expense caused by net revenue changes, mandatory or elective tax law changes, tax accounting changes, tax procedural changes, or tax policy changes during the 2017 through 2019 GRC period.  The account will remain open and the balance in the account will be reviewed in every subsequent GRC proceeding until a CPUC decision closes the account.

    The final decision approved a revenue requirement increase of $88 million for 2017, with additional increases of $444 million in 2018 and $361 million in 2019, in line with the amounts proposed in the settlement agreement.  The following table shows the revenue requirement amounts approved in the final decision based on line of business and cost category as well as the differences between the 2016 authorized revenue requirements and the amounts approved in the final decision:

    2019. 

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Increase/

     

     

    Amounts

     

     

    (Decrease)

    (in millions)

     

    Approved in

     

     

    2016 vs.

    Line of Business:

     

    Final Decision (1)

     

     

    Final Decision

    Electric distribution

    $

    4,151 

     

    $

    (62)

    Gas distribution

     

    1,738 

     

     

    (3)

    Electric generation

     

    2,115 

     

     

    153 

    Total revenue requirements

    $

    8,004 

     

    $

    88 

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Cost Category:

     

     

     

     

     

    (in millions)

     

     

     

     

     

    Operations and maintenance

    $

    1,794 

     

    $

    131 

    Customer services

     

    334 

     

     

    15 

    Administrative and general

     

    912 

     

     

    (99)

    Less: Revenue credits

     

    (152)

     

     

    (21)

    Franchise fees, taxes other than income, and other adjustments

     

    170 

     

     

    132 

    Depreciation (including costs of asset removal), return, and

     

     

     

     

     

      income taxes

     

    4,946 

     

     

    (70)

    Total revenue requirements

    $

    8,004 

     

    $

    88 

     

     

     

     

     

     

    (1) Amounts approved in the final decision are the same as the amounts that were proposed in the settlement agreement.

    As required by the final decision, the Utility has submitted a variety of compliance filings, including a filing on June 12, 2017, which provides an accounting for the January 2017 $300 million expense reduction announcement and on July 10, 2017, providing an update of the cost effectiveness study for the SmartMeter™ Upgrade project. In response to the $300 million expense reduction, on May 8, 2018, the CPUC issued a ruling directing the Utility to reduce its 2017 revenue requirement by approximately $43 million. On June 7, 2018, the Utility filed an advice letter following the CPUC’s ruling accepting the 2017 revenue requirement decrease of approximately $43 million. In the advice letter, the Utility also proposed an alternative revenue requirement decrease of approximately $21 million, instead of $43 million, based on a different calculation method. The Utility is unable to predict what, if any, actionsthe timing and outcome of this compliance filing.

    As a result of the Tax Act, on March 30, 2018, the Utility submitted to the CPUC a PFM of the CPUC’s final decision in the 2017 GRC. The PFM, if adopted, would reduce revenue requirements by $267 million and $296 million for 2018 and 2019 respectively, and increase rate base by $199 million and $425 million for 2018 and 2019, respectively. The Utility has proposed to work with the CPUC staff to implement rate changes under a schedule that minimizes rate volatility, which could defer some rate impacts beyond 2018. The timing of rate changes will take regarding these submissions.

    also have an impact on the Utility's financing needs. The Utility cannot predict the timing and outcome of this PFM.


    For more information, see PG&E Corporation’sthe 2017 Form 10-K.

    Risk Assessment Mitigation Phase Filing

    On November 30, 2017, the Utility filed its first RAMP report with the CPUC in advance of its 2020 GRC filing. The RAMP is a new CPUC requirement directing each large investor-owned energy utility to submit a report describing how it assesses its risks and how it plans to mitigate and minimize such risks in advance of the utility’s GRC application. The report’s objective is to inform the CPUC of the utility’s top safety-related risks, risk assessment procedures, and proposed mitigations of those risks for 2020-2022.



    On April 3, 2018, the SED released a report assessing the Utility's RAMP report. The SED report requested, among other items, an updated risk analysis regarding wildfire risk mitigation strategies in the Utility’s 2020 GRC. A workshop on the report was held on April 17, 2018, and the parties submitted opening and reply comments on May 10, 2018 and May 24, 2018, respectively. The RAMP results will be incorporated in the Utility’s 2016 Form 10-K and2020 GRC.

    2020 General Rate Case

    On June 4, 2018, the Utility submitted a request to the CPUC requesting an extension of up to four months, from September 1, 2018, to January 1, 2019, to file its subsequent quarterly reports2020 GRC application. The Utility requested this extension due to extraordinary uncertainties related to the 2017 Northern California wildfires that could significantly impact the content of the rate case application. On June 29, 2018, the CPUC granted the Utility’s extension request to file its 2020 GRC application no later than January 1, 2019. The extension also requires that the Utility provide an update to the CPUC on Form 10-Q.

    the timing of its filing on October 15, 2018.


    2015 Gas Transmission and Storage Rate Case


    During 2016, the CPUC issued final decisions in phasephases one and phase two of the Utility’s 2015 GT&S rate case.  The phase one decision adopted the revenue requirements that the Utility is authorized to collect through rates beginning August 1, 2016, to recover its costs of gas transmission and storage services for the 2015 GT&S rate case period (2015 through 2018).  The phase two decision determined the allocation of the $850 million penalty assessed in the San Bruno Penalty Decision and the revenue requirement reduction for the five-month delay caused by the Utility’s violation of the CPUC ex parte communication rules in this proceeding. 


    The phase one decision excluded from rate base $696 million of capital spending in 2011 through 2014 in excess of the amount adopted.adopted in the 2011 GT&S rate case. The decision permanently disallowed $120 million of that amount and ordered that the remaining $576 million be subject to an audit overseen by the CPUC staff, with the possibility that the Utility may seek recovery in a future proceeding. A draft of the audit report is expectedThe Utility would be required to take a charge in the first quarterfuture if the CPUC’s audit of 2018.2011 through 2014 capital spending resulted in additional permanent disallowance. The decision also established new one-way balancing accounts to track certain costs, as well as various cost caps that will increase the risk of overspenddisallowance over the current rate case cycle including new one-way balancing accounts.  Additional charges may be required in the future based on the Utility’s ability to manage its capital spending and on the outcome of the CPUC’s audit of 2011 through 2014 capital spending.

    The final phase two decision adopted total weighted average rate base of $2.8 billion in 2015, $2.8 billion in 2016, $3.0 billion in 2017, and $3.5 billion in 2018.  The final phase two decision reduced rate base by the full amount of the disallowed capital expenditures but did not remove the associated deferred taxes, which the Utility believes constitutes a normalization violation.  In the final decision, the CPUC authorized the Utility to establish a Tax Normalization Memorandum Account to track relevant costs and clarified that it is the CPUC’s intention that the Utility comply with normalization rules and avoid the potential adverse consequences of a normalization violation.  The CPUC allowed the Utility to seek a ruling from the IRS and the Utility filed the ruling request with the IRS on April 10, 2017.  On October 5, 2017, the IRS issued a private letter ruling indicating the final phase two decision rate base reduction was inconsistent with the IRS tax normalization requirements.  cycle.


    As a result of the IRSTax Act, on March 30, 2018, the Utility submitted to the CPUC a PFM of the CPUC's final decision in the 2015 GT&S rate case. The PFM, if adopted, would reduce revenue requirements by $58 million and increase rate base by $12 million for 2018 (excluding the impacts of an approximately $7 million increase in revenue requirement and a $60 million increase in rate base associated with the Utility's private letter ruling the Utility will file an advice letter approved by the CPUC on July 18, 2018). The Utility has proposed to work with the CPUC instaff to implement rate changes under a schedule that minimizes rate volatility, which could defer some rate impacts beyond 2018. The timing of rate changes will also have an impact on the fourth quarterUtility’s financing needs. The Utility cannot predict the timing and outcome of 2017, requesting a rate base adjustment of $7 million, $28 million, $49 million, and $61 million, in 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2018, respectively.


    58


    In August 2016 and January 2017, TURN, ORA and Indicated Shippers filed applications for rehearing of the phase one and phase two decisions, respectively.decisions. The Utility cannot predict when or ifwhether the CPUC will grant the rehearingsapplications for rehearing or if it will adopt the parties’ recommendations. Additionally, in June 2017, the Utility filed a PFM of the phase one decision to eliminate the requirement that the Utility install new CP systems in 2018 because the Utility is not in a position to identify the optimal location for such new systems in 2018.  Instead, the Utility requested to be allowed to continue its current CP program.  As directedcathodic protection program rather than install a new system. On April 26, 2018, the CPUC issued a final decision granting the Utility’s PFM.


    For more information, see the 2017 Form 10-K.

    2019 Gas Transmission and Storage Rate Case

    On November 17, 2017, the Utility filed its 2019 GT&S rate case application with the CPUC for the years 2019 through 2021. While the Utility has not formally proposed a fourth year for this rate case, it provided a revenue requirement and rates for 2022, in the event the CPUC adopts an additional year.

    In its application, the Utility requested that the CPUC authorize a 2019 revenue requirement of $1.59 billion to recover anticipated costs of providing natural gas transmission and storage services beginning on January 1, 2019. This corresponds to an increase of $289 million over the Utility’s 2018 authorized revenue requirement of $1.30 billion. The Utility’s request also includes proposed revenue requirements of $1.73 billion for 2020, $1.91 billion for 2021, and $1.91 billion for 2022 if the CPUC orders a fourth year for the rate case period.



    The requested rate base for 2019 is $4.66 billion, which corresponds to an increase of $0.95 billion over the 2018 authorized rate base of $3.71 billion. These rate base amounts exclude approximately $576 million of capital spending subject to audit by the CPUC on August 23, 2017,related to 2011 through 2014 expenditures in excess of amounts adopted in the Utility provided supplemental information to the CPUC regarding the PFM.2011 GT&S rate case. The Utility is unable to predict if and whenwhether the $576 million, or a portion thereof, will ultimately be authorized by the CPUC would adoptand included in the PFM.  In the event the PFM is not adopted andUtility’s future rate base. The Utility’s request also excludes rate base adjustments that the Utility failsrequested with the CPUC on November 14, 2017, resulting from the Internal Revenue Service’s October 5, 2017 private letter ruling issued in connection with the CPUC’s final phase two decision in the 2015 GT&S rate case. The Utility’s request is based on capital expenditure forecasts of $971 million for 2019, $963 million for 2020, and $804 million for 2021 (which exclude common capital allocations).

    The increase in revenue requirement is largely attributable to performincreased infrastructure investment and costs related to new natural gas storage safety and environmental regulations. Such new regulations were issued by: (1) DOGGR, which issued emergency safety and reliability natural gas storage measures in 2016 in response to the mandated2015 Southern California natural gas storage leak in Aliso Canyon. The final rulemaking on new CP systems,gas storage safety rules was adopted on June 28, 2018 and will be effective as of October 1, 2018; (2) the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, which issued interim final rules, effective January 18, 2017, that address pipeline safety issues and mandate certain reporting requirements for operators of underground natural gas storage facilities; and (3) the CPUC, which issued General Order 112-F that became effective on January 1, 2017, and requires additional expenditures in the areas of gas leak repair, leak survey, and high consequence area identification, among other things. In its application, the Utility could incur finesproposes a new two-way gas storage balancing account to address uncertainty around the anticipated DOGGR regulations, and penalties,also proposes a new memorandum account to track costs related to other anticipated new regulations.

    As a result of the amount of whichexisting gas storage safety requirements, the Utility is unable to predict. 

    With the addition of a third attrition year, the Utility’s next GT&S cycle will begindeveloped and proposed in 2019.  The Utility is required to file its 2019 GT&S rate case in 2017.application a natural gas storage strategy that includes the discontinuation (through closure or sale) of operations at two gas storage fields. The discontinuation is expected to reduce long-term costs for customers and to reduce safety and environmental risks. The Utility planscannot predict the timing and outcome of this submittal.


    As a result of the Tax Act, on March 30, 2018, the Utility submitted updated testimony to file itsthe CPUC. The updated testimony, including the private letter ruling advice letter, reduces the Utility's previously forecasted revenue requirement by $25 million for 2019, GT&S$30 million for 2020, $22 million for 2021, and $5 million for 2022, and increases rate case withbase by $188 million for 2019, $254 million for 2020, $378 million for 2021, and $469 million for 2022.

    On April 24, 2018, the CPUC in the fourth quarter of 2017.

    issued a scoping memo and ruling establishing a procedural schedule. ORA submitted testimony on June 29, 2018 and TURN and other parties submitted testimony on July 20, 2018. Evidentiary hearings are scheduled to begin on September 17, 2018.


    For more information, see PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s 20162017 Form 10-K and its subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q.

    10-K.




    Transmission Owner Rate Cases


    Transmission Owner Rate Cases for 2015 and 2016 (the “TO16” and “TO17” rate cases, respectively)

    On January 8, 2018, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals issued an opinion granting an appeal of FERC’s decisions in the TO16 and TO17 rate cases that had granted the Utility a 50 basis point ROE incentive adder for its continued participation in the CAISO. Those rate case decisions have been remanded to FERC for further proceedings consistent with the Court of Appeals’ opinion. If FERC concludes on remand that the Utility should no longer be authorized to receive the 50 basis point ROE incentive adder, the Utility would incur a refund obligation of $1 million and $8.5 million for TO16 and TO17, respectively. Alternatively, if FERC again concludes that the Utility should receive the 50 basis point ROE incentive adder and provides the additional explanation that the Ninth Circuit found the FERC’s prior decisions lacked, then the Utility would not owe any refunds for this issue for TO16 or TO17.

    On February 28, 2018, the Utility filed a motion to establish procedures on remand requesting a paper hearing and additional briefing on the issues identified in the Ninth Circuit Court's opinion. The Utility is unable to predict the timing and outcome of FERC’s response to this motion.

    Transmission Owner Rate Case for 2017

    (the “TO18” rate case)


    On July 29, 2016, the Utility filed aits TO18 rate case (the “TO18 rate case”) at the FERC requesting a 2017 retail electric transmission revenue requirement of $1.718$1.72 billion, a $387 million increase over the 2016 revenue requirement of $1.331$1.33 billion.  The forecasted network transmission rate base for 2017 iswas $6.7 billion.  The Utility is also seeking a return on equity of 10.9%, which includes an incentive component of 50 basis points for the Utility’s continuing participation in the CAISO.  In the filing, the Utility forecasted that it willwould make investments of $1.296$1.30 billion in 2017 in various capital projects. 


    On September 30, 2016, the FERC issued an order accepting the Utility’s July 2016 filing and set it for hearing, but held the hearing procedures in abeyance for settlement procedures.  The order set an effective date for rates of March 1, 2017, and made the rates subject to refund following resolution of the case.  On March 17, 2017, the FERC chief judge issued an order terminating the settlement procedures due to an impasse in the settlement negotiations reported by the parties. 

    On August 22, 2017,


    During the hearings held in January 2018, the Utility, intervenors, and the FERC trial staff, submitted testimony.  The table below summarizes the differences between the amount of revenue requirement increases included in the Utility’s requestaddressed questions relating to return on equity, capital structure, depreciation rates, capital additions, rate base, operating and maintenance expense, administrative and general expense, and the testimony submitted byallocation of common, general and intangible costs. On April 11, 2018, the FERC trial staff:

     

     

    Amounts

     

     

    Amounts

     

     

     

    requested by

     

     

    proposed by the

     

    (in millions)

     

    the Utility

     

     

    FERC trial staff

     

    Revenue Requirement

    $

    1,718 

     

    $

    1,353 

     

    Return on Equity

     

    10.90 

    %

     

    8.46 

    %

    Composite Depreciation Rate

     

    3.26 

    %

     

    2.08 

    %

    Additionally, intervenors provided testimony on July 5, 2017 andextended the Utility submitted rebuttal testimony on October 9, 2017.  Hearings are scheduled to take place starting January 9, 2018, with andeadline for the administrative law judge's initial decision expected on or beforefrom June 1, 2018, to October 1, 2018.

    Also, The Utility expects a FERC decision in mid-2019.


    Additionally, on March 31, 2017, several of the parties that had already intervenedintervenors in the TO18 rate case filed a complaint at the FERC and requestedalleging that the complaint be consolidated withUtility failed to justify its proposed rate increase in the TO18 rate case. The complaint asserts that the Utility’s revenue requirement request in TO18 is unreasonably high and should be reduced. The complaint asks that, if the outcome of the litigation in TO18 is that the Utility’s revenue requirement should be set at a lower level than the settled revenue requirement from the TO17 settlement, thatOn November 16, 2017, the FERC order refunds to that lower level determined in TO18 litigation.dismissed the complaint. On April 20,December 18, 2017, the Utility answered the complaint, requestingcomplainants filed a request for a rehearing of that FERC dismiss it.  The Utility is unable to predict when and howorder, which the FERC will respond to the complaint.

    denied on May 17, 2018.


    Transmission Owner Rate Case for 2018

    (the “TO19” rate case)


    On July 27, 2017, the Utility filed aits TO19 rate case (the “TO19 rate case”) at the FERC requesting a 2018 retail electric transmission revenue requirement of $1.792$1.79 billion, a $74 million increase over the proposed 2017 revenue requirement of $1.718$1.72 billion.  The forecasted network transmission rate base for 2018 is $6.9 billion.  The Utility is also seeking an ROE of 10.75%, which includes an incentive component of 50 basis points for the Utility’s continuing participation in the CAISO.  In the filing, the Utility forecasted capital expenditures of approximately $1.4 billion.  On September 28, 2017, the FERC issued an order accepting the Utility’s July 2017 filing, subject to hearing and refund, and established March 1, 2018, as the effective date for rate changes.  FERC also ordered that the hearings will be held in abeyance pending settlement discussion among the parties.

    A settlement conference was held at FERC on July 12, 2018.


    On September 29, 2017, several of the parties that have intervenedintervenors in the TO18TO19 rate case filed a complaint at the FERC and requestedalleging that the complaint be consolidated withUtility failed to justify its proposed rate increase in the TO19 rate case.  The TO19 complaint asserts that the Utility’s revenue requirement request in TO19 is unreasonably high and should be reduced. The complaint asks that, if the outcome of the litigation in TO18 is that the Utility’s revenue requirement should be set at a lower level than the settled revenue requirement approved by FERC in TO17, FERC order refunds to that lower level determined in the TO18 litigation. On October 17, 2017, the Utility answeredrequested that the FERC dismiss the complaint. On May 17, 2018, the FERC issued an order setting the complaint requesting that FERC dismiss it.for hearing, settlement judge procedures, and consolidation with the TO19 proceeding. 

    On May 14, 2018, the Utility filed a proposal to reflect the impact of the Tax Act on its TO tariff rates effective, March 1, 2018, in the resolution of the TO19 rate case. The Utility is unable tocannot predict whenthe timing and howoutcome of the FERC’s response.



    The Utility anticipates filing its next TO tariff rate case at FERC will respond toby the complaint.

    end of 2018.


    For more information see PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s 2016 Form 10-K and its subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q.

    Cost of Capital

    On July 13, 2017, the CPUC issued a final decision adopting, with no modifications, the PFM filed in February 2017 by San Diego Gas & Electric Company, Southern California Gas Company, Southern California Edison, the ORA, TURN, and the Utility.

    The final decision extends the Utility’s next cost of capital application filing deadline by two years to April 22, 2019, for the year 2020.  The final decision also reduces the Utility’s authorized ROE from 10.40% to 10.25%, effective January 1, 2018, and resets the Utility’s authorized cost of long-term debt and preferred stock effective January 1, 2018.  In addition, the decision suspends the cost of capital adjustment mechanism to adjust cost of capital for 2018, but allows the adjustment mechanism to operate for 2019 if triggered.  The Utility’s current capital structure of 52% common equity, 47% long-term debt, and 1% preferred equity remains unchanged.

    The final decision also leaves the proceeding open to facilitate gathering of information to inform the next cost of capital proceeding, as well as to provide a possible venue in which to consider whether the Utility’s ROE should be reduced until any recommendations that the CPUC may adopt in the second phase of its safety culture investigation are implemented, as described in the assigned Commissioner’s May 8, 2017 Scoping Memo and Ruling issued in the Safety Culture OII.

    On September 29, 2017, the Utility submitted an advice letter to the CPUC, updating its cost of capital and the estimated revenue requirement impacts with an effective date of January 1, 2018.  The long-term debt cost reset reflects actual embedded costs as of the end of August 2017 and forecasted interest rates for the new long-term debt expected to be issued for the remainder of 2017 and all of 2018.  The Utility estimates that its annual revenue requirement will be reduced by approximately $120 million, beginning in 2018.  This estimate is based on the updated cost of capital inTO rate cases, see the September 29, 2017 advice letter and current rate base.  In the fourth quarter of 2017, the Utility’s final advice letters for authorized 2018 revenue requirements will be filed using the cost of capital authorized pursuant to the September 29, 2017 advice letter.  Changes in market interest rates may have material effects on the cost of the Utility’s future financings, but will not affect the authorized cost of capital in 2018.

    For more information, see PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s 2016 Form 10-K and its subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q.

    10-K.


    Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Plant


    Joint Proposal for Plant Retirement


    On August 11, 2016, the Utility submitted an application to the CPUC to retire Diablo Canyon at the expiration of its current operating licenses in 2024 and 2025 and replace it with a portfolio of energy efficiency and GHG-free resources. The application implements a joint proposal between the Utility and the Friends of the Earth, Natural Resources Defense Council, Environment California, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 1245, Coalition of California Utility Employees, and Alliance for Nuclear Responsibility.  PG&E subsequently modified its testimonyResponsibility (together, the “Joint Parties”).

    On January 11, 2018, the CPUC issued a final decision in the Utility’s proposal to moveretire Diablo Canyon Unit 1 by 2024 and Unit 2 by 2025. The CPUC also:

    deferred consideration of two tranches of post-2025 replacement procurementresources to the CPUC’s Integrated Resource Plan proceeding.

    Planning proceeding;

    authorized rate recovery for up to $211.3 million (compared with the $352.1 million requested by the Utility) for an employee retention program;

    authorized rate recovery for an employee retraining program of $11.3 million requested by the Utility;
     

    60


    More than 40 parties have submitted responses and protests torejected rate recovery of the Utility’s application.  Rebuttal testimony and commentsproposed $85 million for the community impacts mitigation program on the community impact mitigationgrounds that rate recovery for such a program settlement agreement were submitted to the CPUC on March 17, 2017.  Evidentiary hearings took place in April 2017.  Certain intervenors argued that a portion of or the entire community impact mitigation program and employee retention plan be funded by shareholders.  

    On May 23, 2017, the Utility filed a settlement agreement that was reached with the parties listed above as well as TURN, ORA, and San Luis Obispo Mothers for Peace, related to therequires legislative authorization;


    authorized rate recovery of license renewal costs and cancelled project costs.  The settlement agreement would allow for recovery from customers of $18.6 million of the total Diablo Canyon license renewal project cost of $53 million evenly over an 8-year period beginning January 1, 2018.  Related toand rate recovery of cancelled project costs the settlement agreement would allow for recovery from customers ofequal to 100% of the direct costs incurred prior to June 30, 2016, and 25% recovery of direct costs incurred after June 30, 2016.  On June 22, 2017, the Green Power Institute filed comments2016, based on thea settlement agreement recommendingamong the Utility, the Joint Parties, and certain other parties that only $9.3 millionthe Utility filed with the CPUC in May 2017; and

    approved the amortization of the book value for Diablo Canyon consistent with the Diablo Canyon closure schedule.

    On March 7, 2018, the Utility submitted a request to the NRC to withdraw its Diablo Canyon license renewal project costs be recovered from customers.  Duringapplication. On April 16, 2018, the nine months ended September 30, 2017,NRC granted the Utility incurred charges of $47 million relatedUtility’s request to the settlement agreement, of which $24 million is for cancelled projects and $23 million is for disallowed license renewal costs.

    Opening and reply briefs were filed on May 26, 2017, and June 16, 2017, respectively, in which no new issues were raised.  On September 14, 2017, the CPUC hosted two public participation hearings in San Luis Obispo, California.  Final oral arguments are scheduled to take place on November 28, 2017.  The Utility expects that a final decision will be issued by the end of 2017.  Upon CPUC approval of the application and such approval becoming final and non-appealable, the Utility will withdraw its license renewal application currently pending beforeapplication.




    On March 16, 2018, California legislative leaders announced that they were moving forward with legislation to meet the NRC.  PG&E Corporation andkey remaining goals of the Utility are unableDiablo Canyon joint proposal agreement. SB 1090 was approved by members of the Senate on May 29, 2018. If SB 1090 is approved by the California Assembly, then the bill will be submitted to predict whetherthe Governor for signature. SB 1090 seeks to:

    require the CPUC willto approve the application.

    community impact mitigation settlement of $85 million, originally proposed in the joint settlement agreement;


    direct the CPUC to manage its Integrated Resource Planning to ensure that there is no increase in GHG emissions as a result of the Diablo Canyon retirement; and

    require the CPUC to approve full funding of the $352.1 million Diablo Canyon employee retention program, originally proposed in the joint settlement agreement.

    California State Lands Commission Lands Lease


    On June 28, 2016, the California State Lands Commission approved a new lands lease for the intake and discharge structures at Diablo Canyon to run concurrently with Diablo Canyon’s current operating licenses until Diablo Canyon Unit 2 ceases operations in August 2025. The Utility believes that the approval of the new lease will ensure sufficient time for the Utility to identify and bring online a portfolio of GHG-free replacement resources. The Utility willintends to submit a future lease extension request to address the period of time required for plant decommissioning, which under NRC regulations can take as long as 60 years. On August 28, 2016, the World Business Academy filed a writ in the Los Angeles Superior Court asserting that the State Lands Commission committed legal error when it determined that the short termshort-term lease extension for an existing facility was exempt from review under the California Environmental Quality Act, andas well as alleging that the State Lands Commission should be required to perform an environmental review of the new lands lease. The trial took place on July 11, 2017, in Los Angeles Superior Court, and the judge dismissed the petition on all grounds, ruling that the State Lands Commission properly determined the short termshort-term lease extension was subject to the existing facilities exemption under the California Environmental Quality Act. The World Business Academy had 60 days from entry of judgement to appeal the decision toappealed this decision. On June 13, 2018, the California Court of Appeals.

    Appeals issued a decision affirming the Superior Court ruling, thereby denying the appeal filed by the World Business Academy. On June 28, 2018, World Business Academy filed a petition for rehearing. On July 10, 2018, the Court of Appeals denied the petition for rehearing and modified the decision to strengthen its findings. Appellants may appeal this ruling to the California Supreme Court.


    Asset Retirement Obligations


    The Utility expects that the decommissioning of Diablo Canyon will take many years after the expiration of its current operating licenses. Detailed studies of the cost to decommission the Utility’s nuclear generation facilities are conducted every three years in conjunction with the NDCTP. On May 25, 2017,Actual decommissioning costs may vary from these estimates as a result of changes in assumptions such as regulatory requirements; technology; and costs of labor, materials, and equipment. The Utility recovers its revenue requirements for decommissioning costs from customers through a non-bypassable charge that the CPUC issuedUtility expects will continue until those costs are fully recovered.

    While the current NDCTP forecast includes employee severance program estimates, it does not include estimated costs related to the final decision’s employee retention and retraining and development programs, and the San Luis Obispo County community mitigation program; the employee retraining program costs will be included in future cost estimates. The Utility intends to conduct a final decision insite-specific decommissioning study to update the 2015 NDCTP adopting a nuclear decommissioning cost estimate of $1.1 billion for Humboldt Bay, correspondingforecast and to submit the study to the Utility’s request, and $2.4 billion for Diablo Canyon, compared to the Utility’s request of $3.8 billion, or 64 percent of its request.  On an aggregate basis, the final decision adopted a $3.5 billion total nuclear decommissioning cost estimate, compared to $4.8 billion requestedCPUC by the Utility.  Compared to the Utility’s estimated cost to decommission Diablo Canyon, the final decision adopts assumptions which lower costs for large component removal, site security, decommissioning contractor staff, spent nuclear fuel storage, and waste disposal.  The Utility can seek recoveryend of these costs in the 2018 NDCTP.  The CPUC’s final decision resulted in a $66 million reduction to the ARO on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets related to the assumed length of the wet cooling period of spent nuclear fuel after plant shut-down.   

    The estimated nuclear decommissioning cost is discounted for GAAP purposes and recognized as an ARO on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.  The total nuclear decommissioning obligation accrued in accordance with GAAP was $3.4 billion at September 30, 2017, and $3.5 billion at December 31, 2016.  These estimates are based on decommissioning cost studies, prepared in accordance with the CPUC requirements.  Changes in these estimates could materially affect the amount of the recorded ARO for these assets.

    2018.


    As of September 30, 2017, the nuclear decommissioning trust accounts’ total fair value was $3.2 billion.  Changes in the estimated costs, the timing of decommissioning or the assumptions underlying these estimates could cause material revisions to the estimated total cost to decommission.

    The Utility expects to file its 2018 NDCTP application in late 2018 or early 2019.

    December 2018. For more information, see PG&E Corporation’s and"Asset Retirement Obligations" in Note 2 of the Utility’s 2016Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8 of the 2017 Form 10-K and its subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q.

    Application to Establish a 10-K.




    Wildfire Expense Memorandum Account 


    On July 26, 2017, the Utility filed an application withJune 21, 2018, the CPUC requestingissued a decision granting the Utility’s request to establish a WEMA to track wildfire expenses and to preserve the opportunity for the Utility to request recoverypurpose of tracking specific incremental wildfire liability costs in excess of insurance at a future date.  Concurrently with this application, the Utility also submitted a motion to the CPUC requesting that the WEMA be deemed effective as of July 26, 2017, such that2017. In the WEMA, the Utility may begin recording costs to the account while the application is pending before the CPUC. 

    Under the WEMA as proposed, the Utility wouldcan record incremental costs related to wildfire,wildfires, including: (1) payments to satisfy wildfire claims, including any deductibles, co-insurance and other insurance expense paid by the Utility but excluding costs that have already been authorized in the Utility’s GRC; (2) outside legal costs incurred in the defense of wildfire claims; (3) insurance premium costs not in rates; and (4) the cost of financing these amounts.  Insurance proceeds, as well as any payments received from third parties, wouldor through FERC authorized rates, will be credited to the WEMA as they are received.  The WEMA wouldwill not include the Utility’s costs for fire response and infrastructure costs which are tracked in the CEMA.  The decision does not grant the Utility rate recovery of any wildfire related costs. Any such rate recovery would be requiredrequire CPUC authorization in a separate proceeding. (See Note 9 of the Notes to file an applicationthe Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 1.)


    Catastrophic Event Memorandum Account Applications

    The CPUC allows utilities to seek approvalrecover the reasonable, incremental costs of responding to catastrophic events through a CEMA. The CEMA tariff authorizes the utilities to recover costs incurred in connection with a catastrophic event that has been declared a disaster or state of emergency by competent federal or state authorities. In 2014, the CPUC directed the Utility to perform additional fire prevention and vegetation management work in response to the severe drought in California. The costs associated with this work are tracked in WEMA.the CEMA. While the Utility believes such costs are recoverable through CEMA, its CEMA applications are subject to CPUC approval.

    2016 CEMA Application

    In 2016, the Utility submitted a request to the CPUC to authorize recovery under the CEMA tariff for a revenue requirement increase of approximately $146 million for recorded capital and expense costs related to the 2015 drought mitigations and emergency response activities for declared disasters that occurred from December 2012 through March 2016. On January 4, 2018, ORA, TURN, and the Utility filed an all-party motion with the CPUC seeking approval of an all-party settlement agreement. The settlement agreement proposed that the Utility’s total CEMA revenue requirement request be reduced by $29 million, from $146 million to $117 million. On June 21, 2018, the CPUC has setapproved the settlement agreement authorizing the Utility to recover $117 million in connection with its 2016 CEMA application.

    2018 CEMA Application

    On March 30, 2018, the Utility submitted to the CPUC its 2018 CEMA application requesting cost recovery of $183 million in connection with seven catastrophic events that included fire and storm declared emergencies from mid-2016 through early 2017, as well as $405 million related to work performed in 2016 and 2017 to cut back or remove dead or dying trees that were exposed to years of drought conditions and bark beetle infestation. The 2018 CEMA application also seeks cost recovery of $555 million on a forecast basis for additional tree mortality and fire risk mitigation work anticipated in 2018 and 2019.

    In the application, the Utility proposed to recover the authorized CEMA expenses and capital costs that have already been incurred over a two-year period beginning on January 1, 2019, or as soon as possible thereafter. With respect to the Utility’s forecasted expenses for 2018 and 2019, the Utility proposed to recover the 2018 and 2019 revenue requirements over a two-year period beginning on January 1, 2019. The 2018 CEMA application does not include costs related to the Butte fire or the October 2017 Northern California wildfires. A prehearing conference was held on this matter for December 8, 2017. TheJuly 10, 2018, which covered issues related to schedule, scope of costs, interim rate relief, and the engagement of an independent auditor to review tree mortality mitigation costs.

    PG&E Corporation and the Utility cannotare unable to predict the outcome of this proceeding.

    Gas




    Other Regulatory Proceedings

    Transportation Electrification

    California Law (SB 350) requires the CPUC, in consultation with the California Air Resources Board and Electric Safety Citation Program

    The SED periodically audits utility operating practicesthe CEC, to direct electrical corporations to file applications for programs and conducts investigationsinvestments to accelerate widespread TE. In September 2016, the CPUC directed the Utility and the other large IOUs to file TE applications that include both short-term projects (of up to $20 million in total) and two- to five-year programs with a requested revenue requirement determined by the Utility.


    On January 20, 2017, the Utility filed its TE application with the CPUC requesting program funding over five years (2018-2022) related to make-ready infrastructure for TE in medium to heavy-duty vehicle sectors, fast charging stations, and short-term projects that includes a series of potential violations of lawsTE demonstration projects and regulations applicable topilot programs.

    On January 11, 2018, the safetyCPUC approved, with modifications, four of the five short-term projects proposed by the Utility for a total of approximately $8 million.

    On May 31, 2018, the CPUC issued a final decision approving the Utility’s standard review program proposals for approximately $269 million (including $198 million of capital expenditures), to support make-ready infrastructure supporting public fast charging and medium to heavy-duty fleets. In the FleetReady program, the Utility has a goal of providing utility-owned make-ready infrastructure at 700 sites, conducting operation and maintenance of installed infrastructure, and educating customers on the benefits of electric vehicles. The final decision gives customers the option of self-funding, installing, owning, and maintaining the make-ready infrastructure installed beyond the customer meter in lieu of utility ownership, after which they would receive a utility rebate for a portion of those costs. The Fast Charge program has a goal to install make-ready infrastructure at approximately 52 public charging sites, depending on the site host and developer demand. The costs associated with the standard review projects will be tracked in a one-way balancing account.

    Electric Distribution Resources Plan

    As required by California utilities’law, on July 1, 2015, the Utility filed its proposed electric distribution resources plan for approval by the CPUC.  The Utility’s plan identifies optimal locations on its electric distribution system for deployment of DERs.  The Utility’s proposal is designed to allow energy technologies to be integrated into the larger grid while continuing to provide customers with safe, reliable, and natural gas facilities and operations.  affordable electric service. 

    The CPUC issued a final decision on February 15, 2018, requiring the California IOUs to use the CEC’s DER forecast for the 2018-2019 distribution planning cycle. The decision also requires the IOUs to develop an alternative planning forecast scenario in 2018 to better inform DER sourcing policies by establishing a method for calculating costs and benefits for DER grid integration. Historically, the Utility has delegated authorityplanned using the CEC forecast and will have the opportunity to adjust forecasts for EV, photovoltaic, and energy storage, if needed during the SEDplanning cycle.

    The CPUC's final decision also requires the Utility to issue citationsdevelop and impose penaltiessubmit an annual grid needs assessment and an annual distribution deferral opportunity report to identify proposed electric distribution investments that could be deferred by deploying DERs. The decision also extends the 4% pre-tax regulatory incentive mechanism, being piloted in the Integrated Distributed Energy Resources (IDER) proceeding, to all DER distribution deferral projects. The Utility filed its first grid needs assessment with the CPUC on June 1, 2018.
    On March 26, 2018, the CPUC issued a final decision requiring the Utility to include a grid modernization plan in the Utility's GRC to address distribution system upgrades required to deploy DERs. The grid modernization plan must include a narrative 10-year vision for violations identified through audits, investigations, or self-reports.  Under bothinvestments needed to support DER growth, safety, and reliability, and a status update of previously funded DER-related grid modernization GRC projects. On June 25, 2018, the gasUtility hosted a grid modernization workshop to provide a high-level overview of its grid integration platform and electric programs, the SED has discretion whether to issue a penalty for each violation, but if it assesses a penalty for a violation, it10-year plan. The Utility is required to imposesubmit a grid modernization plan with each GRC application starting with its 2020 GRC application.



    Integrated Distributed Energy Resources Proceeding

    On April 4, 2016, the maximum statutory penalty of $50,000.  The SED may, at its discretion, impose penaltiesCPUC issued a ruling proposing to establish, on a dailypilot basis, an interim program offering regulatory incentives to the California IOUs for the deployment of cost-effective DERs. The ruling stated that it did not intend for this phase to adopt a new regulatory framework or on less than a daily basis,business model for violations that continued for more than one day.

    the California electric utilities. On September 29,December 22, 2016, the CPUC issued a final decision adopting improvements and refinementsin the proceeding that authorizes a pilot to its gas andtest a regulatory incentive mechanism through which the Utility will earn a 4% pre-tax incentive on annual payments for DERs, as well as test a regulatory process that will allow the Utility to competitively solicit DER services to defer electric safety citation programs.  Specifically,distribution infrastructure. Each IOU is required to conduct at least one pilot, but may conduct up to three additional pilots.


    In June 2017, the final decision refinesUtility submitted a pilot project proposal to the criteriaCPUC for approval to begin solicitations. The pilot aims to evaluate the SED to useeffectiveness of an earnings opportunity in determining whether to issue a citation and the amount of penalty, sets an administrative limit of $8 million per citation issued, makes self-reporting voluntary in both gas and electric programs, adopts detailed criteria for themotivating utilities to usesource DERs. In December 2017, the CPUC granted the Utility’s request to voluntarily self-report a potential violation, and refines other issuescancel the current pilot project proposal due to the damage of the Utility’s facilities in the programs.  The decision also merges the rules applicable to its gas and electric safety citation programs into a single set of rules that replace the previous safety citation programs and adopts non-substantive changes to these programs so that the programs can be similar in structure and process where appropriate.

    On February 21, 2017, California State Senator Jerry Hill filed a petition for modificationarea of the CPUC’s September 29, 2016 decision regardingNorthern California wildfires. On May 1, 2018, the safety citation program.  The petition for modification requests thatUtility submitted an advice letter seeking approval of an alternative pilot project at the decision be modified to reinstate mandatory self-reporting for gas safety potential violations and require gas utilities to notify local governments within 30 days when a self-report is submitted to SED.  Under the request, electric utilities would keep the voluntary self-reporting regime and would not be required to notify local governments, but the CPUC has discretion to direct notification within ten days on a case-by-case basis.  The CPUC’s Office of Safety Advocates filed a response suggesting additional potential modification to the gas and electric safety citation programs.Gonzales Substation. The Utility cannot predict when or howthe timing and outcome of this proposal.


    On February 12, 2018, the CPUC will actissued an amended scoping memo and ruling to investigate DER sourcing mechanisms beyond the existing competitive solicitations for DERs. The scope now includes: (1) the design, for CPUC consideration and adoption, of alternative sourcing mechanisms or approaches that satisfy distribution planning objectives; and (2) the consideration of how existing programs, incentives, and tariffs can be coordinated to maximize locational benefits and minimize DER costs. The IOUs and other parties filed opening and reply comments on March 29, 2018 and April 13, 2018, respectively, in response to the petitionCPUC's ruling to further investigate sourcing mechanisms beyond the existing competitive solicitations framework.

    LEGISLATIVE AND REGULATORY INITIATIVES

    Pending Wildfire Legislation

    On July 2, 2018, California’s governor and legislative leadership announced that the legislative leadership had moved a bill to a conference committee to develop legislation to make California more resilient against future disasters by strengthening disaster preparedness and adopting appropriate policies to respond to wildfire danger.  Specifically, the Conference Committee on Wildfire Preparedness and Response is charged with amending the bill to update applicable laws and regulations for utilities to:

    strengthen fire prevention activities;

    continue to ensure financial and other accountability for wildfires;

    appropriately determine responsibility for wildfires;

    ensure fair allocation of modification.  

    Other Regulatory Proceedingswildfire prevention and Initiatives

    response costs in a manner that protects ratepayers; and


    submit annually to the state more expansive and detailed wildfire and emergency preparedness plans.

    Various bills addressing wildfire risk have been separately introduced during the current legislative session that would, among other things, permit the Utility to securitize costs related to the Northern California wildfires, require wildfire mitigation planning, and specify what costs utilities may recover through rates.  The current legislative session ends August 31, 2018.

    PG&E Corporation and the Utility are unable to predict the outcome of this legislation.



    Power Charge Indifference Adjustment OIR


    On April 25, 2017, the Utility, along with Southern California Edison Company and San Diego Gas & Electric Company, filed a joint application with the CPUC on how to allocateregarding the allocation of costs associated with long-term power purchase commitments in a manner that ensurestreats all customers are treated equally. At issue is how customers within communities that choose to implement CCA power arrangements and those served under direct access pay for their share of the costs. The utilities believe that these CCA and direct access customers are not paying their full share of costs associated with the long-term power purchase commitments, which resultsresulting in other customerscustomers paying more, which is inconsistent with state law. The Utility is committed to helping create a cost allocation method that treats all customers fairly and equally, whether they continue to receive service from the Utility or choose a CCA or direct access provider.  The Utility projects that approximately 50 percentmore than half of its customers will purchase electricity from a CCA or direct access provider by 2020. Without changes to the current cost allocation system, a portion of the contract and facilities costs will be shifted to customers who remain with the Utility or live in areas that do not have access to alternative electricity providers. The utilities’ joint proposed approach would replace the current system, which is known as the PCIA, with an updated system known as the Portfolio Allocation Methodology.


    62


    On June 29, 2017, the CPUC dismissed the Utility’s joint Portfolio Allocation Methodology application without prejudice and instead approved an OIR to review, revise, and consider alternatives to the PCIA. The OIR will focusis focused on PCIA within the larger context of consumer choice in energy services, and should not be considered a follow-up to the CPUC and Energy Commission Joint En Banc on Customer Choice in California.services. On September 25, 2017, the CPUC issued a scoping memo and ruling establishing a procedural schedule and a new overall goal to mitigate cost increases for both bundled and departing loadCCA and direct access customers. Testimony is scheduled forOn April 2, 2018, the first quarter ofUtility served joint testimony with Southern California Edison and San Diego Gas & Electric to the CPUC along with nine other parties including ORA, TURN, and California Community Choice Association. The Utility, Southern California Edison, and San Diego Gas & Electric served joint rebuttal testimony on April 23, 2018. Evidentiary hearings are scheduled for the second quarter ofbegan on May 7, 2018, and opening and reply briefs were filed on June 1, 2018 and June 15, 2018, respectively. The Utility expects the CPUC to issue a proposed decision is expected byPD in the third quarter of 2018.

    Customer Choice


    OIR to Consider Strategies and Guidance for Climate Change Adaptation

    On May 19, 2017, California energy companies, along with other stakeholders discussed customer choiceApril 26, 2018, the CPUC opened an OIR to consider strategies for integrating climate change adaptation matters into relevant CPUC proceedings.  Phase one will focus on how to integrate climate change adaptation into the IOUs’ existing planning and the future of California’s electric industry at a CPUC “en banc” meeting.  Specifically, the goal of the meeting was to frame a discussion on the trends that are driving change within California’s electricity sector and overall clean-energy economy and to lay out elements of a path forwardoperations to ensure that California achieves its reliability, affordability, equity,utility safety and carbon reduction imperatives while recognizingreliability.
    The CPUC OIR will consider:
    how to define climate change adaption for the important role that technologyIOUs;

    the climate-driven risks facing the IOUs;

    data, tools, resources, and customer preferencesguidance to instruct utilities on how to incorporate adaption in their existing planning and operational processes; and

    strategies to address climate change in CPUC proceedings, including impacts on disadvantaged communities.

    A prehearing conference will play in shaping this future. 

    On October 11, 2017, the CPUC announced the formation of the California Customer Choice Projecttake place on August 6, 2018, to examinescope the issues and produceset a report evaluating regulatory framework options in early 2018.procedural schedule. The Commission held an informal public workshop on October 31, 2017, to gather stakeholder input on global and national electric market choice models, including California’s 2020 market.  The project will produce a white paper that will provide a framework to evaluate customer choice models.  The white paper will not present a recommendation nor is it intended to provide the basisscope for instituting a rulemaking.  The white paper is expected in early 2018 with a final version expected by the second quarterfuture phases of 2018.  While the CPUC had indicated intent to open an OIR related to customer choice, the Utility is unable to predict if and when the CPUC may open an OIR.

    Electric Distribution Resources Plan

    As required by California law, on July 1, 2015, the Utility filed its proposed DRP for approval by the CPUC.  The Utility’s plan identifies optimal locations on its electric distribution system for deployment of DERs.  The Utility’s proposal is designed to allow energy technologies to be integrated into the larger grid while continuing to provide customers with safe, reliable, and affordable electric service. 

    On February 27, 2017, the CPUC issued a ruling that seeks the development of a process for incorporating DER forecasts into the DRP that takes into consideration the coordination with other statewide planning and forecasting processes such as the CEC’s Integrated Energy Policy Report.  This ruling mandated the Utility, along with the other California IOUs, to develop a draft joint proposal for the CPUC and stakeholder consideration on the process for developing DER forecasts.  On June 9, 2017, the utilities submitted a draft joint proposal for CPUC and stakeholder consideration.  Comments were submitted by stakeholders on the draft proposal on July 10, 2017.  On August 9, 2017, the CPUC issued a ruling directing all California IOUs to use the CEC’s Integrated Energy Policy report forecast for the 2017-2018 distribution planning cycle.  The August 9, 2017 ruling also requires the Energy Division to work with the CEC to develop a preliminary proposal for DER growth scenarios.  The CPUC will begin workshops to discuss the proposals in the fourth quarter of 2017 and a final decision is expected by the end of the first quarter of 2018.

    On May 16, 2017, the CPUC issued a ruling requiring stakeholder responses to questions posed in a CPUC staff white paper on grid modernization.  The white paper is aimed at informing the development of a CPUC framework to evaluate grid-modernization investments.  A workshop took place and comments were submitted by stakeholders in June 2017.

    On June 30, 2017, the CPUC issued another ruling soliciting stakeholder responses on questions set forth in a CPUC staff white paper on proposing a DIDF.  The DIDF aims to establish a future process for identifying distribution deferral opportunities for DERs.  Stakeholder comments on DIDF were submitted on August 7, 2017, with reply comments submitted on August 18, 2017.  The CPUC may issue a combined proposed decision on DIDF and grid-modernization in the fourth quarter of 2017.  The Utility is unable to predict when a final CPUC decision approving, disapproving, or modifying the Utility’s DRPthis proceeding will be issued.


    Integrated Distributed Energy Resources Proceeding – Regulatory Incentives Pilot Program

    On April 4, 2016, the CPUC issuedconsidered at a ruling proposinglater time, but they are anticipated to establish, on a pilot basis, an interim program offering regulatory incentives to the Utility and the other two large California IOUs for the deployment of cost-effective DERs.impact non-energy utilities. The ruling stated that it did not intend for this phase to adopt a new regulatory framework or business model for the California electric utilities.  On December 22, 2016, the CPUC issued a final decision in the proceeding which authorizes a pilot to test a regulatory incentive mechanism through which the Utility will earn a 4% pre-tax incentive on annual payments for DERs, as well as test a regulatory process that will allow the Utility to competitively solicit DER services to defer distribution infrastructure.  Each utility is required to conduct at least one pilot, but may conduct up to three additional pilots.

    In June 2017, the Utility submitted a pilot project proposal to the CPUC for approval to begin solicitations. The pilot aims to evaluate the effectiveness of an earnings opportunity in motivating utilities to source DERs.  On October 17, 2017, the Utility notified the CPUC of potential changes to its pilot project proposal due to the uncertain condition of the Utility’s facilities in the area of the Northern California wildfires.  On October 27, 2017, the CPUC issued a draft resolution that proposed modifications to the Utility’s pilot program.  The CPUC is expected to issue a final resolution by the end of 2017.

    Transportation Electrification Application

    California Law (Senate Bill 350) requires the CPUC, in consultation with the CARB and the CEC, to direct the Utility and electrical corporations to file applications for programs and investments to accelerate widespread TE.  In September 2016, the CPUC directed the Utility and the other large IOUs to file TE applications which include both short-term projects (of up to $20 million in total) and two- to five-year programs with a requested revenue requirement determined by the Utility.  On January 20, 2017, the Utility filed its TE application with the CPUC requesting a total of up to $253 million (approximately $211 million in capital expenditures) in program funding over five years (2018 - 2022) primarily related to make-ready infrastructure for TE in medium to heavy-duty vehicle sectors.  The CPUC may issueCPUC's preliminary schedule anticipates a proposed decision on this requestphase one by April 2019.

    For information related to the Utility's climate change resiliency strategies see Item 1 in the first quarter of 2018.

    2017 Form 10-K.


    FEDERAL INITIATIVES

    Strengthening the Cybersecurity of Federal Networks and Critical Infrastructure Executive Order

    On May 11, 2017, President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order “Strengthening the Cybersecurity of Federal Networks and Critical Infrastructure” that includes provisions, among other things, for the executive branch to use its authorities and capabilities to support the cybersecurity risk management efforts of the owners and operators of critical infrastructure.  Among other things, it requires heads of appropriate sector-specific agencies to identify authorities and capabilities that agencies could employ to support the cybersecurity efforts of critical infrastructure entities identified to be at greatest risk of attacks that could reasonably result in catastrophic regional or national effects on public health or safety, economic security, or national security.  It also requires within 180 days of the cybersecurity order, before November 7, 2017, a classified report detailing the findings and recommendations for better supporting the cybersecurity risk management efforts of such entities.  The Utility is unable to predict the impact that the executive order will have on the Utility until the report is released and the federal administration takes steps to implement some or all of the report’s recommendations.

    ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS


    The Utility’s operations are subject to extensive federal, state, and local laws and permits relating to the protection of the environment and the safety and health of the Utility’s personnel and the public.  These laws and requirements relate to a broad range of the Utility’s activities, including the remediation of hazardous wastes; the reporting and reduction of CO2carbon dioxide and other GHG emissions; the discharge of pollutants into the air, water, and soil; the reporting of safety and reliability measures for natural gas storage facilities; and the transportation, handling, storage, and disposal of spent nuclear fuel.  (See Note 9 of the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 1 of this Form 10-Q, as well as “Item 1A. Risk Factors” and Note 13 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8 of the 20162017 Form 10-K.)




    CONTRACTUAL COMMITMENTSCOMMITMENTS


    PG&E Corporation and the Utility enter into contractual commitments in connection with future obligations that relate to purchases of electricity and natural gas for customers, purchases of transportation capacity, purchases of renewable energy, and purchases of fuel and transportation to support the Utility’s generation activities.  (See “Purchase Commitments” in Note 9 of the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements)Statements in Item 1).  Contractual commitments that relate to financing arrangements include long-term debt, preferred stock, and certain forms of regulatory financing.  For more in-depth discussion about PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s contractual commitments, see “Liquidity and Financial Resources” above and Management’s Discussion and AnalysisMD&A "Contractual Commitments" in Item 7 of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Contractual Commitments in the 20162017 Form 10-K.


    Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements


    PG&E Corporation and the Utility do not have any off-balance sheet arrangements that have had, or are reasonably likely to have, a current or future material effect on their financial condition, changes in financial condition, revenues or expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures, or capital resources, other than those discussed in Note 13 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8 of the 20162017 Form 10-K (the Utility’s commodity purchase agreements).


    RISK MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES


    PG&E Corporation, mainly through its ownership of the Utility, and the Utility are exposed to market risk, which is the risk thatrisks associated with adverse changes in market conditions will adversely affect net income or cash flows.  PG&E Corporationcommodity prices, interest rates, and the Utility face market risk associated with their operations; their financing arrangements; the marketplace for electricity, natural gas, electric transmission, natural gas transportation, and storage, emissions allowances and offset credits, other goods and services, and other aspects of their businesses.  PG&E Corporation and the Utility categorize market risks as “commodity price risk” and “interest rate risk.”  The Utility is also exposed to “credit risk,” the risk that counterparties fail to perform their contractual obligations. 

    counterparty credit.


    The Utility actively manages market risk through risk management programs designed to support business objectives, discourage unauthorized risk-taking, reduce commodity cost volatility, and manage cash flows.  The Utility uses derivative instruments only for risk mitigation purposes and not for speculative purposes.  The Utility’s risk management activities include the use of physical and financial instruments such as forward contracts, futures, swaps, options, and other instruments and agreements, most of which are accounted for as derivative instruments.  Some contracts are accounted for as leases.  The Utility manages credit risk associated with its counterparties by assigning credit limits based on evaluations of their financial conditions, net worth, credit ratings, and other credit criteria as deemed appropriate.  Credit limits and credit quality are monitored periodically.  These activities are discussed in detail in the 20162017 Form 10-K.  There were no significant developments to the Utility’s and PG&E Corporation’s risk management activities during the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017.

    2018.


    CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES


    The preparation of the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in accordance with GAAP involves the use of estimates and assumptions that affect the recorded amounts of assets and liabilities as of the date of the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.  PG&E Corporation and the Utility consider their accounting policies for regulatory assets and liabilities, loss contingencies associated with environmental remediation liabilities and legal and regulatory matters, accounting policies for insurance recoveries, AROs, and pension and other postretirementpost-retirement benefits plans to be critical accounting policies.  These policies are considered critical accounting policies due, in part, to their complexity and because their application is relevant and material to the financial position and results of operations of PG&E Corporation and the Utility, and because these policies require the use of material judgments and estimates.  Actual results may differ materially from these estimates.  These accounting policies and their key characteristics are discussed in detail in the 20162017 Form 10-K.


    ACCOUNTING STANDARDS ISSUED BUT NOT YET ADOPTED


    See the discussion above in Note 2 of the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.


    65



    FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS


    This report contains forward-looking statements that are necessarily subject to various risks and uncertainties.  These statements reflect management’s judgment and opinions whichthat are based on current estimates, expectations, and projections about future events and assumptions regarding these events and management's knowledge of facts as of the date of this report.  These forward-looking statements relate to, among other matters, estimated losses, including penalties and fines, associated with various investigations and proceedings; forecasts of pipeline-related expenses that the Utility will not recover through rates; forecasts of capital expenditures; estimates and assumptions used in critical accounting policies, including those relating to regulatory assets and liabilities, environmental remediation, litigation, third-party claims, and other liabilities; and the level of future equity or debt issuances.  These statements are also identified by words such as “assume,” “expect,” “intend,” “forecast,” “plan,” “project,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “anticipate,” “may,” “should,” “would,” “could,” “potential” and similar expressions.  PG&E Corporation and the Utility are not able to predict all the factors that may affect future results.  Some of the factors that could cause future results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, or from historical results, include, but are not limited to:


    the impact of the Northern California wildfires, including the costs of restoration of service to customers and repairs to the Utility’s facilities, and whether the Utility iswill be able to recover suchany costs for clean-up and repair of the Utility's facilities through CEMA; the timing and outcome of the remaining wildfire investigations, by Cal Fire and the CPUC, including into the causes of the wildfires;wildfires and whetherthe extent to which the Utility maywill have liability associated with these fires; the timing and if liable for one or more fires,amount of insurance recoveries; whether the Utility wouldwill be able to recover all or partcosts in excess of such costs through insurance or through regulatory mechanisms toand the extent insurance is not available or exhausted; as well astiming of such recovery; and potential liabilities in connection with fines or penalties that could be imposed on the Utility if the CPUC or any other law enforcement agency broughtwere to bring an enforcement action and determined that the Utility failed to comply with applicable laws and regulations;


    the timing and outcome of the Butte fire litigation, the timing and outcome of any proceeding to recover costs in excess of insurance from customers, if any;through rates; the effect, if any, that the SED’s $8.3 million citations issued in connection with the Butte fire may have on the Butte fire litigation; and whether additional investigations and proceedings in connection with the Butte fire will be opened and any additional fines or penalties imposed on the Utility;


    whether the CPUC approves the Utility’s application to establish a WEMA to track wildfire expensesPG&E Corporation and to preserve the opportunity for the Utility are able to request recoverysuccessfully challenge the application of the doctrine of inverse condemnation to the Northern California wildfires and the Butte fire, and the timing and outcome of pending wildfire costs in excesslegislation;

    the timing and outcome of insurance at a future date, and pending wildfire legislation;

    the outcome of the Utility's community wildfire safety program that the Utility has developed in coordination with first responders, civic and community leaders, and customers, to help reduce wildfire threats and improve safety as a result of climate-driven wildfires and extreme weather; and the cost of the program, and the timing and outcome of any potential requestproceeding to recover such costs.  Whilecost through rates;

    the amount and timing of additional common stock and debt issuances by PG&E Corporation, including the dilutive impact of common stock issuances to fund PG&E Corporation's equity contributions to the Utility as the Utility incurs charges and costs, including fines, that it cannot recover through rates;

    the timing and outcome of CPUC decision(s) related to the Utility’s March 2018 submissions to the CPUC previously approved WEMA tracking accounts for San Diego Gas & Electric Companyand May 2018 submission to the FERC in 2010,connection with the CPUC currently is consideringimpact of the Tax Act on the Utility’s rate cases and its implementation plan;

    the timing and outcomes of the 2019 GT&S rate case, 2020 GRC, FERC TO18 and TO19 rate cases, 2018 CEMA, and other ratemaking and regulatory proceedings;

    the costs of the Utility's insurance, and whether the Utility will be able to approveobtain full recovery of costs recorded by San Diego Gas & Electric Company in its WEMA.  On August 22, 2017,significantly increased insurance premiums and the CPUC issued a PD denying San Diego Gas & Electric Company’s cost recovery request; 




    the outcome of the probation and the monitorship imposed as a result ofby the federal court after the Utility’s conviction in the federal criminal trial in 2017, the timing and outcomes of the debarment proceeding, potential reliability penalties or sanctions from the North American Electric Reliability Corporation, the SED’s unresolved enforcement matters relating to the Utility’s compliance with natural gas-related laws and regulations, and other investigations that have been or may be commenced relating to the Utility’s compliance with natural gas- and electric- related laws and regulations, and ex parte communications, and the ultimate amount of fines, penalties, and remedial costs that the Utility may incur in connection with the outcomes;




    the outcome of the safety culture OII, including its phase two proceeding opened on May 8, 2017, and future legislative or regulatory actions that may be taken, such as requiring the Utility to separate its electric and natural gas businesses, or restructure into separate entities, or undertake some other corporate restructuring, or implement corporate governance changes;

    whether the Utility can control its costs within the authorized levels of spending, and successfully implementtimely recover its costs through rates; whether the Utility can continue implementing a streamlined organizational structure and achieve project savings, the extent to which the Utility incurs unrecoverable costs that are higher than the forecasts of such costs,costs; and changes in cost forecasts or the scope and timing of planned work resulting from changes in customer demand for electricity and natural gas or other reasons;


    whether the Utility and its third-party vendors and contractors are able to protect the Utility’s operational networks and information technology systems from cyber- and physical attacks, or other internal or external hazards;


    the timing and outcome of the complaint filed by the CPUC and certain other parties with the FERC on February 2, 2017, that requests that the Utility provide an open and transparent planning process for its capital transmission projects that do not go through the CAISO’s Transmission Planning Process in order to allow for greater participation and input from interested parties;


    the outcome of current and future self-reports, investigations, or other enforcement proceedings that could be commenced or notices of violation that could be issued relating to the Utility’s compliance with laws, rules, regulations, or orders applicable to its operations, including the construction, expansion, or replacement of its electric and gas facilities, electric grid reliability, inspection and maintenance practices, customer billing and privacy, physical and cyber security,cybersecurity, environmental laws and regulations; and the timing and outcome of existing and future SED notices of violations in connection with violations;

    the Yuba City incident;


    the impact of environmental remediation laws, regulations, and orders; the ultimate amount of costs incurred to discharge the Utility’s known and unknown remediation obligations; and the extent to which the Utility is able to recover environmental costs in rates or from other sources;


    the impact of California Governor Jerry Brown's executive order issued on January 26, 2018, to implement a new target of five million zero-emission vehicles on the road in California by 2030;

    the ultimate amount of unrecoverable environmental costs the Utility incurs associated with the Utility’s natural gas compressor station site located near Hinkley, California;

    California and the Utility's fossil fuel-fired generation sites;

    67





    the impact of wildfires, droughts, floods, or other weather-related conditions or events, climate change, natural disasters, acts of terrorism, war, vandalism (including cyber-attacks), downed power lines, and other events, that can cause unplanned outages, reduce generating output, disrupt the Utility’s service to customers, or damage or disrupt the facilities, operations, or information technology and systems owned by the Utility, its customers, or third parties on which the Utility relies, and the reparation and other costs that the Utility may incur in connection with such conditions or events; the impact of the potential inadequacyadequacy of the Utility’s emergency preparedness; whether the Utility incurs liability to third parties for property damage or personal injury caused by such events; whether the Utility is subject to civil, criminal, or regulatory penalties in connection with such events; and whether the Utility’s insurance coverage is available for these types of claims and sufficient to cover the Utility’s liability;

    the outcome of state initiatives and numerous bills introduced by state legislators to address climate resilience and augment disaster planning in response to the wildfires in California, that if passed, could affect the Utility’s cost recovery mechanisms, operational requirements, and resiliency plans for certain catastrophic events;

    whether the Utility’s climate change adaptation strategies are successful;

    the breakdown or failure of equipment that can cause damages, including fires, and unplanned outages (such as the power outage on April 21, 2017 in San Francisco, that initial information suggests was due to an equipment failure that led to a fire at Larkin Street substation, and that impacted approximately 88,000 customers);outages; and whether the Utility will be subject to investigations, penalties, and other costs in connection with such events;


    how the CPUC and the CARBCalifornia Air Resources Board implement state environmental laws relating to GHG, renewable energy targets, energy efficiency standards, DERs, EVs, and similar matters, including whether the Utility is able to continue recovering associated compliance costs, such as the cost of emission allowances and offsets under cap-and-trade regulations; and whether the Utility is able to timely recover its associated investment costs;


    the impact that reductions in customer demand for electricity and natural gas have on the Utility’s ability to make and recover its investments through rates and earn its authorized return on equity, and whether the Utility is successful in addressing the impact of growing distributed and renewable generation resources, changing customer demand for natural gas and electric services, and an increasing number of customers departing PG&E’sthe Utility’s procurement service for CCAs;


    the supply and price of electricity, natural gas, and nuclear fuel; the extent to which the Utility can manage and respond to the volatility of energy commodity prices; the ability of the Utility and its counterparties to post or return collateral in connection with price risk management activities; and whether the Utility is able to recover timely its electric generation and energy commodity costs through rates, including its renewable energy procurement costs;


    whether, as a result of Westinghouse’s Chapter 11 proceeding and its bankruptcy court approved plan of reorganization, the Utility will experience issues with nuclear fuel supply, nuclear fuel inventory, and related services and products that Westinghouse supplies, and whether such proceedingthe implementation of the plan or reorganization will affect the Utility’s contracts with Westinghouse;


    the amount and timing of charges reflecting probable liabilities for third-party claims; the extent to which costs incurred in connection with third-party claims or litigation can be recovered through insurance, rates, or from other third parties; and whether the Utility can continue to obtain adequate insurance coverage for future losses or claims, especially following a major event that causes widespread third-party losses;


    the ability of PG&E Corporation and the Utility to access capital markets and other sources of debt and equity financing in a timely manner on acceptable terms;


    changes in credit ratings which could, among other things, result in increasedcash collateral postings, higher borrowing costs and fewer financing options, especially if PG&E Corporation or the Utility were to lose their investment grade credit ratings;


    68





    the outcome of federal or state tax audits and the impact of any changes in federal or state tax laws, policies, regulations, or their interpretation;


    changes in the regulatory and economic environment, including potential changes affecting renewable energy sources and associated tax credits, as a result of the newcurrent federal administration; and


    the impact of changes in GAAP, standards, rules, or policies, including those related to regulatory accounting, and the impact of changes in their interpretation or application.


    Additional information about risks and uncertainties, including more detail about the factors described in this report, is included throughout MD&A, in “Item 1A. Risk Factors” below, and in the 20162017 Form 10-K, including the “Risk Factors” section.  Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made.  PG&E Corporation and the Utility do not undertake any obligation to update forward-looking statements, whether in response to new information, future events, or otherwise. 


    Additionally, PG&E Corporation and the Utility routinely provide links to the Utility’s principal regulatory proceedings before the CPUC and the FERC at http://investor.pgecorp.com,, under the “Regulatory Filings” tab, so that such filings are available to investors upon filing with the relevant agency. PG&E Corporation and the Utility also routinely post or provide direct links to presentations, documents, and other information that may be of interest to investors at http://investor.pgecorp.com, under the “News & Events: Events & Presentations” tab and links to certain documents and information related to the Northern California wildfires and the Butte fire which may be of interest to investors, at http://investor.pgecorp.com, under the “Wildfire Updates” tab, in order to publicly disseminate such information. It is possible that any of these regulatory filings or information included therein could be deemed to be material information. The information contained on this website is not part of this or any other report that PG&E Corporation or the Utility files with, or furnishes to, the SEC. PG&E Corporation and the Utility are providing the address to this website solely for the information of investors and do not intend the address to be an active link.  PG&E Corporation and the Utility also routinely post or provide direct links to presentations, documents, and other information that may be of interest to investors at http://investor.pgecorp.com, under the “News & Events: Events & Presentations” tab, in order to publicly disseminate such information.


    69


    PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s primary market risk results from changes in energy commodity prices.  PG&E Corporation and the Utility engage in price risk management activities for non-trading purposes only.  Both PG&E Corporation and the Utility may engage in these price risk management activities using forward contracts, futures, options, and swaps to hedge the impact of market fluctuations on energy commodity prices and interest rates.  (See the section above entitled “Risk Management Activities” in MD&A and in Note 7: Derivatives and Note 8: Fair Value Measurements of the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.1.)



    Based on an evaluation of PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s disclosure controls and procedures as of September June 30, 2017, 2018, PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s respective principal executive officers and principal financial officers have concluded that such controls and procedures are effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by PG&E Corporation and the Utility in reports that the companies file or submit under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, is (i) recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC rules and forms, and (ii) accumulated and communicated to PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s management, including PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s respective principal executive officers and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.


    There were no changes in internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, PG&E Corporation’s or the Utility’s internal control over financial reporting.


    70




    PART II. OTHER INFORMATION



    In addition to the following legal proceedings, PG&E Corporation and the Utility are involved inparties to various legallawsuits and regulatory proceedings in the ordinary course of their business. For more information regarding PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s contingencies, see Note 9 of the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 1 and Part I, Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,MD&A: “Enforcement and Litigation Matters.”

    Butte Fire Litigation

    In September 2015, a wildfire (known as the “Butte fire”) ignited and spread in Amador and Calaveras Counties in Northern California.  On April 28, 2016, Cal Fire released its report of the investigation of the origin and cause of the wildfire.  According to Cal Fire’s report, the fire burned 70,868 acres, resulted in two fatalities, destroyed 549 homes, 368 outbuildings and four commercial properties, and damaged 44 structures.  Cal Fire’s report concluded that the wildfire was caused when a gray pine tree contacted


    Order Instituting an Investigation into the Utility’s electric line which ignited portions of the tree, and determined that the failure by the Utility and/or its vegetation management contractors, ACRT Inc. and Trees, Inc., to identify certain potential hazards during its vegetation management program ultimately led to the failure of the tree.

    On May 23, 2016, individual plaintiffs filed a master complaint against the Utility and its two vegetation management contractors in the Superior Court of California for Sacramento County. Subrogation insurers also filed a separate master complaint on the same date. The California Judicial Council had previously authorized the coordination of all cases in Sacramento County. As of September 30, 2017, 77 known complaints have been filed against the Utility and its two vegetation management contractors in the Superior Court of California in the Counties of Calaveras, San Francisco, Sacramento, and Amador.  The complaints involve approximately 3,770 individual plaintiffs representing approximately 2,080 households and their insurance companies. These complaints are part of or are in the process of being added to the two master complaints. Plaintiffs seek to recover damages and other costs, principally based on inverse condemnation and negligence theories of liability.  Plaintiffs also seek punitive damages.  The number of individual complaints and plaintiffs may increase in the future. The Utility continues mediating and settling cases

    Safety Culture

    In addition, on April 13, 2017, Cal Fire filed a complaint with the Superior Court of the State of California, County of Calaveras, seeking to recover $87 million for its costs incurred on the theory that the Utility and its vegetation management contractors were negligent, among other claims. 

    Also, in May 2017, the OES indicated that it intends to bring a claim against the Utility that it estimates in the approximate amount of $190 million.  This claim would include costs incurred by the OES for tree and debris removal, infrastructure damage, erosion control, and other claims related to the Butte fire.  Also, in June 2017, the County of Calaveras indicated that it intends to bring a claim against the Utility that it estimates in the approximate amount of $85 million.  This claim would include costs that the County of Calaveras incurred or expects to incur for infrastructure damage, erosion control, and other costs related to the Butte fire. 

    On April 28, 2017, the Utility moved for summary adjudication on plaintiffs’ claims for punitive damages. 

    On August 10, 2017,27, 2015, the Court deniedCPUC began a formal investigation into whether the Utility’s motion on the grounds that plaintiffs might be able to show conscious disregard for public safety based on the fact that the Utility relied on contractors to fulfill their contractual obligation to hireorganizational culture and train qualified employees.  On August 16, 2017, the Utility filed a writ with the Courtgovernance of Appeals challenging this novel theory of punitive damages liability.  The Court of Appeals accepted the writ on September 15, 2017 and ordered the trial court and plaintiffs to show cause why the relief requested by the Utility should not be granted.  Briefing on the writ should be completed by early 2018.

    In the third quarter of 2017, the Utility reached settlements with plaintiffs in the “preference” trial involving six households and with the plaintiffs in the representative trial that had been scheduled for August 2017 and October 2017, respectively.  While there are no trials related to the Butte fire currently scheduled, one plaintiff has moved for a preference trial involving one household.  The motion is set for hearing on December 1, 2017.

    On October 25, 2017, the Utility filed a motion to stay the trial court proceedings pending a decision by the Court of Appeals on the pending writ of mandate regarding punitive damages.  A hearing on the stay motion is calendared for December 1, 2017.

    For more information regarding the Butte fire, see Note 9 of the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. 


    San Bruno Derivative Litigation

    As previously disclosed, on July 18, 2017, the Superior Court of California, County of San Mateo (the “Court”) approved the settlement agreement reached by the parties in the San Bruno Fire Derivative Cases to resolve the consolidated shareholder derivative lawsuit and certain additional claims against certain current and former officers and directors (the “Individual Defendants”).  Also, as of July 19, 2017, the three cases, Tellardin v. Anthony F. Earley, Jr., et al., Iron Workers Mid-South Pension Fund v. Johns, et al., and Bushkin v. Rambo, et al (the “Additional Derivative Cases”) were dismissed.  The settlement will become effective when all procedural conditions specified in the settlement stipulation are satisfied.  PG&E Corporation recorded $65 million in proceeds from insurance, net of plaintiff costs to its Condensed Consolidated Income Statement for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017.

    PG&E Corporation and the Utility also agreed, under their indemnification obligationsprioritize safety and adequately direct resources to promote accountability and achieve safety goals and standards. The CPUC directed the SED to evaluate the Utility’s and PG&E Corporation’s organizational culture, governance, policies, practices, and accountability metrics in relation to the Individual Defendants,Utility’s record of operations, including its record of safety incidents. The CPUC authorized the SED to pay $18.3 millionengage a consultant to assist in the SED’s investigation and the preparation of a report containing the SED’s assessment.


    On May 8, 2017, the CPUC released the consultant’s report, accompanied by a scoping memo and ruling. The scoping memo establishes a second phase in this OII in which the CPUC will evaluate the safety recommendations of the Individual Defendants’ costs, fees,consultant that may lead to the CPUC’s adoption of the recommendations in the report, in whole or in part. This phase of the proceeding will also consider all necessary measures, including, but not limited to, a potential reduction of the Utility’s return on equity until any recommendations adopted by the CPUC are implemented.

    On November 17, 2017, the CPUC issued a phase two scoping memo and expenses incurred in connection with respondingprocedural schedule. The scoping memo directed the Utility to defendingfile testimony addressing a number of issues including: adoption of the safety recommendations from the consultant, the Utility’s implementation process for the safety recommendations of the consultant, the Utility’s Board of Director’s actions and settling the San Bruno Fire Derivative Casesinitiatives related to safety culture and the Additional Derivative Cases, including certain fees and expenses for investigating these claims.  The $18.3 million has been paid, withconsultant’s recommendations, the majority reflected in PG&E Corporation’sUtility’s corrective action program, and the Utility’s financial statementsresponse to certain specified safety incidents that occurred in 2013 through December 31, 2016.

    In addition, pursuant2015. The Utility submitted its testimony to the CPUC on January 8, 2018, indicating that it agrees with all of the recommendations from the consultant and supports their adoption by the CPUC. The parties submitted their reply testimonies on February 16, 2018, and on March 9, 2018, the parties submitted joint comments to the CPUC. The parties were not able to reach a settlement, agreement, and the proceeding continues following its procedural schedule.


    Evidentiary hearings took place on April 11, 2018, and addressed the CPUC's questions on a variety of topics including the consultant's report, safety (public, employee, and contractor), cyber security, wildfires, compensation, safety metrics, the Utility's Board of Directors, performance-based ratemaking, safety management systems, the Utility's safety and health plan, and the Utility's implementation plan. Opening and reply briefs were filed May 9, 2018 and May 23, 2018, respectively.

    PG&E Corporation and the Utility are unable to predict the timing and outcome of this proceeding, including whether additional fines, penalties, or other ratemaking tools will implement certain corporate governance therapeuticsultimately be adopted by the CPUC, and whether the CPUC will require that a portion of return on equity for five years, and the Utility will implement certain gas operations therapeutics and maintain certain of them for three years, at an estimated cost of up to approximately $32 million.  The Court also directed PG&E Corporation to provide at least quarterly reports tobe dependent on making safety progress as the Court and to the City of San Bruno summarizing the progress of the implementation of the corporate governance and gas operations therapeutics.

    For additional information regarding these matters, see “Part I, Item 3. Legal Proceedings”CPUC may define in the 2016 Form 10-K and subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and Note 9 of the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

    Other Enforcement Matters

    Fines may be imposed, or other regulatory or governmental enforcement action could be taken, with respect to the Utility’s self-reports of non-compliance with electric and natural gas safety regulations and other enforcement matters.  See the discussion entitled “Enforcement and Litigation Matters” above in Part I, Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and in Note 9 of the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.  In addition, see “Part I, Item 3. Legal Proceedings” in the 2016 Form 10-K.

    this proceeding.


    Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Plant


    For more information regarding the status of the 2003 settlement agreement between the Central Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board, the Utility, and the California Attorney General’s Office, see “PartPart I, Item 3. Legal"Legal Proceedings” in the 20162017 Form 10-K.



    For information about the significant risks that could affect PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, and cash flows, see the section of the 20162017 Form 10-K entitled “Risk Factors,” as supplemented below, and the section of this quarterly report entitled “Cautionary Language Forward-Looking“Forward-Looking Statements.”




    PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, and cash flows could be materially adversely affected by potential losses resulting from the impact of the Northern California wildfires.  ThePG&E Corporation and the Utility also expect to be the subject of additional lawsuits and could be the subject of lawsuits, additional investigations, citations, fines or enforcement actions.

    PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, and cash flows could be materially adversely affected by potential losses resulting from the impact of the multiple wildfires that spread through Northern California, wildfires.  The Utility estimates that it will incur costsincluding Napa, Sonoma, Butte, Humboldt, Mendocino, Del Norte, Lake, Nevada, and Yuba Counties, as well as in the range of $160 million to $200 million for service restoration and repairsarea surrounding Yuba City, beginning on October 8, 2017 (the “Northern California wildfires”).  According to the Utility’s facilities (includingCal Fire California Statewide Fire Summary dated October 30, 2017, at the peak of the wildfires, there were 21 major wildfires in Northern California that, in total, burned over 245,000 acres and destroyed an estimated $60 million to $80 million8,900 structures. The wildfires also resulted in capital expenditures) in44 fatalities. 
    The Northern California wildfires are under investigation by Cal Fire and the CPUC's SED. Cal Fire issued its determination on the causes of 16 of the Northern California wildfires and the remaining wildfires remain under Cal Fire's investigation, including the possible role of the Utility's power lines and other facilities. It is uncertain when the remaining investigations will be complete. 
    In connection with these fires.  While the Utility believes that such costs are recoverable through CEMA, its CEMA requests are subject to CPUC approval.  The Utility’s financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, and cash flows could be materially adversely affectedNorthern California wildfires, if the Utility were unable to recover such costs.

    If the Utility’s facilities, such as its electric distribution and transmission lines, are determined to be the cause of one or more fires, and the theorydoctrine of inverse condemnation applies, the Utility could be liable for property damages,damage, interest, and attorneys’ fees without having been found negligent, which liability, in the aggregate, could be substantial.  Courtssubstantial and have imposed liability undera material adverse effect on PG&E Corporation and the Utility.  (See “The doctrine of inverse condemnation, policyif applied by courts in litigation to actions by property holders against utilities onwhich PG&E Corporation or the grounds that losses borne byUtility are subject, could significantly expand the person whose property was damaged through a public use undertaking should be spread across the community that benefittedpotential liabilities from such undertakinglitigation and based onmaterially negatively affect PG&E Corporation’s and the assumption that utilities haveUtility’s financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows” in PG&E Corporation and the ability to recover these costs from their customers.Utility’s 2017 Form 10-K, Item 1A, Risk Factors.)  In addition to such claims for property damage, interest, and attorneys’ fees, as well as claims under other theories of liability, the Utility could be liable for fire suppression costs, evacuation costs, medical expenses, personal injury damages, and other damages under other theories of liability, including if the Utility were found to have been negligent, which liability, in the aggregate, could be substantial.  Thesubstantial and have a material adverse effect on PG&E Corporation and the Utility.  Further, the Utility also could be subject to material fines or penalties if the CPUC or any other law enforcement agency brought an enforcement action, including as a result of the referral by Cal Fire of certain investigation reports to the appropriate county District Attorney's offices, and determined that the Utility failed to comply with applicable laws and regulations.

    On January 31, 2018, the California Department of Insurance issued a news release announcing an update on property losses in connection with the October and December 2017 wildfires in California, stating that, as of such date, “insurers have received nearly 45,000 insurance claims totaling more than $11.79 billion in losses,” of which approximately $10 billion relates to statewide claims from the Northern California wildfires. The balance relates to claims from the Southern California December 2017 wildfires. That news release reflected insured property losses only and did not account for uninsured losses, interest, attorneys’ fees, fire suppression and clean-up costs, personal injury and wrongful death damages or other costs. If PG&E Corporation and the Utility are unablewere to reasonably estimatebe found liable for certain or all of such other costs and expenses, including the potential liabilities outlined above, the amount of possiblethe liability could significantly exceed the approximately $10 billion in estimated insured property losses (or range of amounts) given the preliminary stages of the investigations and uncertainty aswith respect to the causes of the firesNorthern California wildfires. As a result, PG&E Corporation’s and the extentUtility’s financial condition, results of operations, liquidity and magnitude of damages.

    cash flows could be materially affected.
     

    As of October 31, 2017,PG&E Corporation and the Utility is awarealso are the subject of ninea still increasing number of lawsuits one of which seeks to be designated as a class action, that have been filed against PG&E Corporation and the Utility in Sonoma, Napa and San Francisco Counties’ Superior Courts.  The lawsuits allege, among other things, negligence, inverse condemnation, trespass, and private nuisance.  They principally assert that PG&E Corporation and the Utility’s alleged failureCourts, several of which seek to maintain and repair their distribution and transmission lines and failure to properly maintain the vegetation surrounding such lines were the cause of the fires.  The plaintiffs seekbe certified as class actions, asserting damages that include wrongful death, personal injury, property damage, evacuation costs, medical expenses, punitive damages, attorneys’ fees, and other damages. In addition, two derivative lawsuits alleging claims for breach of fiduciary duties and unjust enrichment were filed in the San Francisco County Superior Court in November 2017, naming as defendants current and certain former members of the Board of Directors, and certain current and former officers, of PG&E Corporation and the Utility, mayand naming PG&E Corporation and the Utility as nominal defendants. In June 2018, two purported securities class actions were filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California naming as defendants PG&E Corporation and certain current and former officers, and alleging material misrepresentations and omissions related to, among other things, vegetation management and transmission line safety information in various PG&E Corporation public disclosures, respectively. PG&E Corporation and the Utility expect to be the subject of additional lawsuits in connection with the Northern California wildfires.

    The Utility has approximately $800 million in liability insurance for potential losses that may result from these fires.  Ifwildfire litigation could take a number of years to be resolved because of the Utility were held liable for one or morecomplexity of the matters, including the ongoing investigation into the causes of the fires and the Utility’s insurance were insufficient to cover that liability orgrowing number of parties and claims involved. 




    PG&E Corporation and the Utility have liability insurance from various insurers, which provides coverage for third-party liability attributable to the Northern California wildfires in an aggregate amount of approximately $840 million, subject to an initial self-insured retention of $10 million per occurrence and further retentions of approximately $40 million per occurrence. In addition, coverage limits within these wildfire insurance policies could result in further material self-insured costs in the event each fire were deemed to be a separate occurrence under the terms of the insurance policies. Further, the $2.5 billion charge recorded by PG&E Corporation and the Utility for the quarter ended June 30, 2018 exceeds the amount of their insurance coverage. 
    In addition, it could take a number of years before the Utility’s final liability is known and the Utility could apply for recovery of costs in excess of insurance. While the CPUC has authorized the Utility to track certain wildfire costs in its WEMA, the Utility will be required to submit a separate request with the CPUC in the future for recovery of those costs.  The Utility may be unable to fully recover costs in excess of insurance through regulatory mechanisms either of whichand, even if such recovery is possible, it could take a number of years to resolve and a number of years to collect.  Further, SB 819, introduced in the California Senate in January 2018, if it becomes law, would prohibit utilities from recovering costs in excess of insurance resulting from damages caused by such utilities’ facilities, if the CPUC determines that the utility did not reasonably construct, maintain, manage, control, or operate the facilities. 

    PG&E Corporation and the Utility have considered certain actions that might be taken to attempt to address liquidity needs of the business in such circumstances, but the inability to recover costs in excess of insurance through increases in rates and by collecting such rates in a timely manner, or any negative assessment by the Utility of the likelihood or timeliness of such recovery and collection, could have a material adverse effect on PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, and cash flows.  (See “If the Utility is unable to recover all or a significant portion of its excess costs in connection with the Northern California wildfires and the Butte fire through ratemaking mechanisms, PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, and cash flows could be materially adversely affected.  If the Utility were to determine that it is both probable that a material loss has occurred and the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated, a liability would be recorded consistentaffected” below.)
    Losses in connection with the principles discussed in Note 9 in the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.  To the extent not offset by insurance recoveries determined to be similarly probable and estimable, the liabilitywildfires would affect the balance sheet equity oflikely require PG&E Corporation and the Utility to seek financing, which could adversely impactmay not be available on terms acceptable to PG&E Corporation’s andCorporation or the Utility’s credit ratings and their ability to declare and pay dividends, efficiently raise capital, comply with financial covenants, and meet financial obligations.Utility, or at all, when required.  (See “Risks Related to Liquidity and Capital Requirements” in the 2016Item 1A Risk Factors in 2017 Form 10-K.)


    Uncertainties relating to and market perception of these matters and the disclosure of findings regarding these matters over time, also could lead tocontinue or increase volatility in the market for PG&E Corporation’s common stock and other securities, and for the securities of the Utility, and could materially affect the price of such securities.


    For additionalmore information about risks that PG&E Corporationthe Northern California wildfires, see Note 9 of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 1.

    If the Utility is unable to recover all or a significant portion of its excess costs in connection with the Northern California wildfires and the Utility face with respect to wildfires, see “The Utility’s electricity and natural gas operations are inherently hazardous and involve significant risks which, if they materialize, can adversely affect PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s financial results. The Utility’s insurance may not be sufficient to cover losses caused by an operating failure or catastrophic event, or may not become available at a reasonable cost, or available at all” in Item 1A. Risk Factors of the 2016 Form 10-K.

    Butte Fire through ratemaking mechanisms, PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, and cash flows could be materially affected by the ultimate amount of third-party liability that the Utility incurs in connections with the Butte fire.

    In September 2015, a wildfire (known as the “Butte fire”) ignited and spread in Amador and Calaveras Counties in Northern California.  On April 28, 2016, Cal Fire released its report of the investigation of the origin and cause of the wildfire.  Cal Fire’s report concluded that the wildfire was caused when a gray pine tree contacted the Utility’s electric line which ignited portions of the tree, and determined that the failure by the Utility and/or its vegetation management contractors, ACRT Inc. and Trees, Inc., to identify certain potential hazards during its vegetation management program ultimately led to the failure of the tree.

    As of September 30, 2017, 77 known complaints have been filed against the Utility and its two vegetation management contractors in the Superior Court of California in the Counties of Calaveras, San Francisco, Sacramento, and Amador.  The complaints involve approximately 3,770 individual plaintiffs representing approximately 2,080 households and their insurance companies.  These complaints are part of or are in the process of being added to two master complaints.  Plaintiffs seek to recover damages and other costs, principally based on inverse condemnation and negligence theories of liability.  Plaintiffs also seek punitive damages.  The number of individual complaints and plaintiffs may increase in the future.  The Utility continues mediating and settling cases.

    In addition, on April 13, 2017, Cal Fire filed a complaint with the Superior Court of the State of California, County of Calaveras, seeking to recover $87 million for its costs incurred on the theory that the Utility and its vegetation management contractors were negligent, among other claims.  Also, in May 2017, the OES indicated that it intends to bring a claim against the Utility that it estimates in the approximate amount of $190 million.  This claim would include costs incurred by the OES for tree and debris removal, infrastructure damage, erosion control, and other claims related to the Butte fire.  Also, in June 2017, the County of Calaveras indicated that it intends to bring a claim against the Utility that it estimates in the approximate amount of $85 million.  This claim would include costs that the County of Calaveras incurred or expects to incur for infrastructure damage, erosion control, and other costs related to the Butte fire. 

    affected.


    The Utility currently believes that it is probable that it will incur a loss of at least $1.1 billion, increased from the $750 million previously estimated as of

    Through December 31, 2016, in connection with the Butte fire.  In addition, while this amount includes the Utility’s early assumptions about fire suppression costs (including its assessment of the Cal Fire loss), it does not include any significant portion of the estimated claims from the OES and the County of Calaveras.  The Utility still does not have sufficient information to reasonably estimate any liability it may have for these additional claims.

    The process for estimating costs associated with claims relating to the Butte fire requires management to exercise significant judgment based on a number of assumptions and subjective factors. As more information becomes known, including additional discovery from the plaintiffs and results from the ongoing mediation and settlement process, management estimates and assumptions regarding the financial impact of the Butte fire may change. A change in management’s estimates or assumptions could result in an adjustment that could have a material impact on PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s financial condition and the results of operations during the period such change occurred. 

    Through September 30, 2017, the amounts accrued in connection with claims relating to the Butte fire have exceeded the Utility’s liability insurance coverage.  While the Utility filed an application withOn June 21, 2018, the CPUC requesting approvalapproved the Utility’s application to establish a WEMA to track wildfire expenses and to preserve the opportunity for the Utility to request recovery of wildfire costs that have not otherwise been recovered through in insurance or other mechanisms, the Utility cannot predict the outcome of this proceeding.  If the Utility is unablemechanisms.  (See “Regulatory Matters - Application to recover all orEstablish a significant portion of such excess costs, PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows could be materially affected.

    The electric power industry is undergoing significant change driven by technological advancements and a decarbonized economy, which could materially impact the Utility’s operations, financial condition, and results of operations.

    The electric power industry is undergoing a transformative change driven by technological advancements enabling customer choice (for example, customer-owned generation and energy storage) and state climate policy supporting a decarbonized economy.  California's environmental policy objectives are accelerating the pace and scope of the industry change.  The electric grid is a critical enabler of the adoption of new energy technologies that support California's climate change and GHG reduction objectives, which continue to be publicly supported by California policy makers notwithstanding a recent changeWildfire Expense Memorandum Account” in the federal approach to such matters.  California utilities are experiencing increasing deployment by customers and third parties of DERs, such as on-site solar generation, energy storage, fuel cells, energy efficiency, and demand response technologies.  This growth will require modernization of the electric distribution grid to, among other things, accommodate two-way flows of electricity, increase the grid's capacity, and interconnect DERs.

    In order to enable the California clean energy economy, sustained investments are required in grid modernization, renewable integration projects, energy efficiency programs, energy storage options, EV infrastructure and State infrastructure modernization (e.g. rail and water projects).

    To this end, the CPUC is conducting proceedings to: evaluate changes to the planning and operation of the electric distribution grid in order to prepare for higher penetration of DERs; consider future grid modernization and grid reinforcement investments; evaluate if traditional grid investments can be deferred by DERs, and if feasible, what, if any, compensation to utilities would be appropriate for enabling those investments; and clarify the role of the electric distribution grid operator.  The CPUC has also recently opened proceedings regarding the creation of a shared database or statewide census of utility poles and conduits in California and increased access by communications providers to utility rights-of-way. This proceeding could require utilities to invest significant resources into inspecting poles and conduits, limit available capacity in existing rights-of-way, or impose other requirements on utilities facilities. The Utility is unable to predict the outcome of these proceedings. 

    In addition, the CPUC has recently opened discussions on potential changes to California’s electricity market.  On May 19, 2017, California energy companies, along with other stakeholders discussed customer choice and the future of the state’s electricity industry at a CPUC “en banc” meeting. Specifically, the goal of the “en banc” was to frame a discussion on the trends that are driving change within California’s electricity sector and overall clean-energy economy and to lay out elements of a path forward to ensure that California achieves its reliability, affordability, equity, and carbon reduction imperatives while recognizing the important role that technology and customer preferences will play in shaping this future.  While the CPUC had indicated intent to open an OIR related to customer choice, the Utility is unable to predict if and when the CPUC may open an OIR.

    Item 7. MD&A.)

    75



    The industry change, costs associated with complying with new regulatory developments and initiatives and with technological advancements, or the Utility’s inability to successfully adapt to changes in the electric industry, could materially affect the Utility’s operations, financial condition, and results of operations.

    State climate policy requires reductions in greenhouse gases of 40% by 2030 and 80% by 2050. Various proposals for addressing these reductions have the potential to reduce natural gas usage and increase natural gas costs. The future recovery of the increased costs associated with compliance is uncertain.

    The CARB is the state’s primary regulator for GHG emission reduction programs. Natural gas providers have been subject to compliance with CARB’s Cap-and-Trade Program since 2015, and natural gas end-use customers have an increasing exposure to carbon costs under the Program through 2030 when the full cost will be reflected in customer bills.  CARB’s Scoping Plan also proposes various methods of reducing GHG emissions from natural gas. These include more aggressive energy efficiency programs to reduce natural gas end use, increased renewable portfolio standards generation in the electric sector reducing noncore gas load, and replacement of natural gas appliances with electric appliances, leading to further reduced demand. These natural gas load reductions may be partially offset by CARB’s proposals to deploy natural gas to replace wood fuel in home heating and diesel in transportation applications. CARB also proposes a displacement of some conventional natural gas with above-market renewable natural gas. The combination of reduced load and increased costs could result in higher natural gas customer bills and a potential mandate to deliver renewable natural gas could lead to cost recovery risk.

    A cyber incident, cyber security breach or physical attack on the Utility’s operational networks and information technology systems could have a material effect on its business and results of operations.

    Private and public entities, such as the NERC, and U.S. Government Departments, including the Departments of Defense, Homeland Security and Energy, and the White House, have noted that cyber-attacks targeting utility systems are increasing in sophistication, magnitude, and frequency.  The Utility’s electricity and natural gas systems rely on a complex, interconnected network of generation, transmission, distribution, control, and communication technologies, which can be damaged by natural events—such as severe weather or seismic events—and by malicious events, such as cyber and physical attacks.  The Utility’s operational networks also may face new cyber security risks due to modernizing and interconnecting the existing infrastructure with new technologies and control systems.  Any failure or decrease in the functionality of the Utility’s operational networks could cause harm to the public or employees, significantly disrupt operations, negatively impact the Utility’s ability to safely generate, transport, deliver and store energy and gas, or otherwise operate in the most safe and efficient manner or at all, and damage the Utility’s assets or operations or those of third parties. 

    The Utility also relies on complex information technology systems that allow it to create, collect, use, disclose, store and otherwise process sensitive information, including the Utility’s financial information, customer energy usage and billing information, and personal information regarding customers, employees and their dependents, contractors, and other individuals.  In addition, the Utility often relies on third-party vendors to host, maintain, modify, and update its systems and these third-party vendors could cease to exist, fail to establish adequate processes to protect the Utility’s systems and information, or experience security incidents.  Any incidents or disruptions in the Utility’s information technology systems could impact our ability to track or collect revenues and to maintain effective internal controls over financial reporting.

    The Utility and its third party vendors have been subject to, and will likely continue to be subject to attempts to gain unauthorized access to the Utility’s information technology systems, or confidential data, or to disrupt the Utility’s operations. None of these attempts or breaches has individually or in the aggregate resulted in a security incident with a material impact on PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s financial condition and results of operations. Despite implementation of security and control measures, thereThere can be no assurance that the Utility will be ableallowed to preventrecover costs recorded in WEMA in the unauthorized accessfuture.  While the CPUC previously approved WEMA tracking accounts for San Diego Gas & Electric Company in 2010, in December 2017, the CPUC denied recovery of costs that San Diego Gas & Electric Company stated it incurred as a result of the doctrine of inverse condemnation, holding that the inverse condemnation principles of strict liability are not relevant to its operational networks, information technology systems or data, or the disruption of its operations.  Such events could subjectCPUC’s prudent manager standard.  San Diego Gas & Electric, the Utility, to significant expenses, claimsand Southern California Edison filed requests for rehearing of that decision. On July 12, 2018, the CPUC voted out a decision denying the requests for rehearing. 


    Further, SB 819 introduced in the California Senate in January 2018, if it becomes law, would prohibit utilities’ recovery of costs in excess of insurance resulting from damages caused by customerssuch utilities’ facilities, if the CPUC determines that the Utility did not reasonably construct, maintain, manage, control, or third parties, government inquiries, investigations,operate the facilities.



    PG&E Corporation and regulatorythe Utility have considered certain actions that could resultmight be taken to attempt to address liquidity needs of the business in finessuch circumstances, but the inability to recover all or a significant portion of costs in excess of insurance through increases in rates and penalties,by collecting such rates in a timely manner, or any negative assessment by the Utility of the likelihood or timeliness of such recovery and loss of customers, any of whichcollection, could have a material effect on PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s financial condition, and results of operations.

    The Utility maintains cyber liability insurance that covers certain damages caused by cyber incidents.  However, there is no guarantee that adequate insurance will continue to be available at ratesoperations, liquidity, and cash flows.


    PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility believes are reasonable or that the costs of responding to and recovering from a cyber incidentUtility’s financial results will be coveredaffected by insurance or recoverable in rates.

    their ability to continue accessing the capital markets and by the terms of debt and equity financings.


    The Utility purchases its nuclear fuel assemblies from a sole source, Westinghouse. If Westinghouse experiences business disruptions as a result of Chapter 11 proceedings, the Utility could experience disruptions in nuclear fuel supply, delays in connection with its Diablo Canyon outages and refuelings, and rejection in bankruptcy of its contracts with Westinghouse.

    The Utility purchases its nuclear fuel assemblies for Diablo Canyon from a sole source, Westinghouse. The Utility also stores nuclear fuel inventory at the Westinghouse fuel fabrication facility.  In addition, Westinghouse provides the Utility with Diablo Canyon outage support services, nuclear fuel analysis, original equipment manufacturer engineering and parts support.  On March 29, 2017, Westinghouse filed for Chapter 11 protection in the United States Bankruptcy Court, Southern District of New York. In the event that Westinghouse experiences business disruptions in its nuclear fuel business as a result of bankruptcy proceedings or otherwise, the Utility could experience issues with its nuclear fuel supply and delays in connection with Diablo Canyon refueling outages. The Utility also could experience losses in connection with its nuclear fuel inventory and Westinghouse could seek to reject in bankruptcy its contracts with the Utility. Diablo Canyon’s Unit 2 refueling outage is expected to occur in the first quarter of 2018. If Westinghouse were to reject the Utility’s contracts or fail to deliver nuclear fuel or provide outage support to the Utility, the Utility’s operation of Diablo Canyon would be adversely affected. PG&E Corporation and the Utility will continue to seek funds in the capital and credit markets to enable the Utility to make capital investments, and to pay fines that may be imposed in the future, as well as legal and regulatory costs. PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s ability to access the capital and credit markets and the costs and terms of available financing depend primarily on PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s credit ratings and outlook. Their credit ratings and outlook can be affected by many factors, including pending or anticipated litigation, the pending Cal Fire and CPUC investigations and CPUC ratemaking proceedings, substantial legislative or judicial changes to the application of inverse condemnation, and by the December 20, 2017 decision of the Boards of Directors of PG&E Corporation and the Utility to suspend dividends, as well as the perceived impact of all such matters on PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s financial condition, whether or not such perception is accurate.


    During the first quarter of 2018, Fitch Ratings, S&P Global Ratings, and Moody’s Investors Service, Inc. downgraded PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s credit ratings, and S&P Global Ratings further lowered PG&E Corporation's and the Utility's credit ratings during the second quarter of 2018. If PG&E Corporation’s or the Utility’s credit ratings were to be further downgraded, in particular to below investment grade, their ability to access the capital and credit markets would be negatively affected and could result in higher borrowing costs, fewer financing options, including reduced, or lack of, access to the commercial paper market and additional collateral posting requirements, which in turn could affect liquidity and lead to an increased financing need. Other factors can affect the availability and terms of debt and equity financing, including changes in the federal or state regulatory environment affecting energy companies generally or PG&E Corporation and the Utility in particular, the overall health of the energy industry, an increase in interest rates by the Federal Reserve Bank, and general economic and financial market conditions.

    The reputations of PG&E Corporation and the Utility continue to suffer from the negative publicity about matters discussed under “Enforcement and Litigation Matters” in Part II, Item 1. Legal Proceedings and Note 9 of the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in Part I, Item 1. The negative publicity and the uncertainty about the outcomes of these matters may undermine confidence in management’s ability to execute its business strategy and restore a constructive regulatory environment, which could adversely impact PG&E Corporation’s stock price. Further, the market price of PG&E Corporation common stock could decline materially depending on the outcome of these matters. The amount and timing of future share issuances also could experienceaffect the stock price.

    Severe weather conditions, extended drought and shifting climate patterns could materially affect PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s business, financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, and cash flows.
    Extreme weather, extended drought and shifting climate patterns have intensified the challenges associated with wildfire management in California. Environmental extremes, such as drought conditions followed by periods of wet weather, can drive additional vegetation growth (which then fuel any fires) and influence both the likelihood and severity of extraordinary wildfire events.  In California, over the past five years, inconsistent and extreme precipitation, coupled with more hot summer days, have increased the wildfire risk and made wildfire outbreaks increasingly difficult to manage.  In particular, the risk posed by wildfires has increased in the Utility’s service area (the Utility has approximately 82,000 distribution overhead circuit miles and 18,000 transmission overhead circuit miles) as a result of an extended period of drought, bark beetle infestations in the California forest and wildfire fuel increases due to record rainfall following the drought, among other environmental factors. Other contributing factors include local land use policies and historical forestry management practices.  The combined effects of extreme weather and climate change also impact this risk.


    Severe weather events and other natural disasters, including wildfires and other fires, storms, tornadoes, floods, heat waves, drought, earthquakes, tsunamis, rising see levels, pandemics, solar events, electromagnetic events, or other natural disasters such as wildfires, could result in severe business disruptions, prolonged power outages, property damage, injuries or loss of life, significant decreases in revenues and earnings, and/or significant additional costs including decreased electricity market revenues,to PG&E Corporation and the Utility.  Any such event could have a material effect on PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s business, financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, and cash flows.  Any of such events also could lead to significant claims against the Utility. Further, these events could result in the event that one or both Diablo Canyon units are unable to operate. There can be no assurance that any such additional costs would be recoverable in the ratesregulatory penalties and disallowances, particularly if the Utility is permittedencounters difficulties in restoring power to recover from its customers.  Furthermore, the Utility currently is not able to estimate the nature or amount of additional costs and expenses that it might incur in connection with the uncertainties surrounding Westinghouse but such costs and expenses could be material.

    For certain critical technologies, products and services, the Utility reliescustomers on a limited numbertimely basis or if the related losses are found to be the result of suppliersthe Utility’s practices and/or the failure of electric and in some cases, sole suppliers. Inother equipment of the event these suppliers are unable to perform, the Utility could experience delays and disruptions in its business operations while it transitions to alternative plans or suppliers.

    The Utility relies on a limited number of sole source suppliers for certain of its technologies, products and services. AlthoughUtility.


    Further, the Utility has long-term agreements with such suppliers, ifbeen studying the suppliers are unablepotential effects of climate change (increased temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, rising sea levels) on the Utility’s operations and is developing contingency plans to deliver these technologies, products or services,adapt to those events and conditions that the Utility could experience delaysbelieves are most significant.  Scientists project that climate change will increase electricity demand due to more extreme, persistent and disruptions while it implements alternative plans and makes arrangements with acceptable substitute suppliers.hot weather.  As a result, the Utility’s business,hydroelectric generation could change and the Utility would need to consider managing or acquiring additional generation.  If the Utility increases its reliance on conventional generation resources to replace hydroelectric generation and to meet increased customer demand, it may become more costly for the Utility to comply with GHG emissions limits. In addition, flooding caused by rising sea levels could damage the Utility’s facilities, including generation and electric transmission and distribution assets.  The Utility could incur substantial costs to repair or replace facilities, restore service, or compensate customers and other third parties for damages or injuries.  The Utility anticipates that the increased costs would be recovered through rates, but as rate pressures increase, the likelihood of disallowance or non-recovery may increase. 
    Events or conditions caused by climate change could have a greater impact on the Utility’s operations than the Utility’s studies suggest and could result in lower revenues or increased expenses, or both.  If the CPUC fails to adjust the Utility’s rates to reflect the impact of events or conditions caused by climate change, PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s financial condition, and results of operations, liquidity, and cash flows could be significantlymaterially affected. As an example, the Utility relies on Silver Spring Networks, Inc. and Aclara Technologies LLC as suppliers of proprietary SmartMeter™ devices and software, and of managed services, utilized in its advanced metering system that collects electric

    The Utility’s electricity and natural gas usage dataoperations are inherently hazardous and involve significant risks which, if they materialize, can adversely affect PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, and cash flows. 
    The Utility owns and operates extensive electricity and natural gas facilities, including two nuclear generation units and an extensivehydroelectric generating system.  (See “Electric Utility Operations” and “Natural Gas Utility Operations” in Item 1. Business of the Form 10-K.)  The Utility’s ability to earn its authorized ROE depends on its ability to efficiently maintain, operate, and protect its facilities, and provide electricity and natural gas services safely and reliably.  The Utility undertakes substantial capital investment projects to construct, replace, and improve its electricity and natural gas facilities.  In addition, the Utility is obligated to decommission its electricity generation facilities at the end of their useful operating lives, and the CPUC approved retirement of Diablo Canyon by 2024 and 2025. 

    The Utility’s ability to safely and reliably operate, maintain, construct and decommission its facilities is subject to numerous risks, many of which are beyond the Utility’s control, including those that arise from: 
    the breakdown or failure of equipment, electric transmission or distribution lines, or natural gas transmission and distribution pipelines, that can cause explosions, fires, or other catastrophic events;
    an overpressure event occurring on natural gas facilities due to equipment failure, incorrect operating procedures or failure to follow correct operating procedures, or welding or fabrication-related defects, that results in the failure of downstream transmission pipelines or distribution assets and uncontained natural gas flow;
    the failure to maintain adequate capacity to meet customer demand on the gas system that results in customer curtailments, controlled/uncontrolled gas outages, gas surges back into homes, serious personal injury or loss of life;
    a prolonged statewide electrical black-out that results in damage to the Utility’s equipment or damage to property owned by customers or other third parties;
    the failure to fully identify, evaluate, and control workplace hazards that result in serious injury or loss of life for employees or the public, environmental damage, or reputational damage;
    the release of radioactive materials caused by a nuclear accident, seismic activity, natural disaster, or terrorist act;


    the failure of a large dam or other major hydroelectric facility, or the failure of one or more levees that protect land on which the Utility’s assets are built;
    the failure to take expeditious or sufficient action to mitigate operating conditions, facilities, or equipment, that the Utility has identified, or reasonably should have identified, as unsafe, which failure then leads to a catastrophic event (such as a wild land fire or natural gas explosion);
    inadequate emergency preparedness plans and the failure to respond effectively to a catastrophic event that can lead to public or employee harm or extended outages;
    operator or other human error;
    an ineffective records management program that results in the failure to construct, operate and maintain
    a utility system safely and prudently;
    construction performed by third parties that damages the Utility’s underground or overhead facilities, including, for example, ground excavations or “dig-ins” that damage the Utility’s underground pipelines;
    the release of hazardous or toxic substances into the air, water, or soil, including, for example, gas leaks from customers.  Ifnatural gas storage facilities; releases of greenhouse gases; flaking lead-based paint from the Utility’s facilities, and leaking or spilled insulating fluid from electrical equipment; and
    attacks by third parties, including cyber-attacks, acts of terrorism, vandalism, or war.
    The occurrence of any of these suppliers encounter performanceevents could interrupt fuel supplies; affect demand for electricity or natural gas; cause unplanned outages or reduce generating output; damage the Utility’s assets or operations; damage the assets or operations of third parties on which the Utility relies; damage property owned by customers or others; and cause personal injury or death.  As a result, the Utility could incur costs to purchase replacement power, to repair assets and restore service, and to compensate third parties.  Any of such incidents also could lead to significant claims against the Utility.
    Further, although the Utility often enters into agreements for third-party contractors to perform work, such as patrolling and inspection of facilities or the construction or demolition or facilities, the Utility may retain liability for the quality and completion of the contractor’s work and can be subject to penalties or other enforcement action if the contractor violates applicable laws, rules, regulations, or orders.  The Utility may also be subject to liability, penalties or other enforcement action as a result of personal injury or death caused by third-party contractor actions. 
    Insurance, equipment warranties, or other contractual indemnification requirements may not be sufficient or effective to provide full or even partial recovery under all circumstances or against all hazards or liabilities to which the Utility may become subject.  An uninsured loss could have a material effect on PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, and cash flows. 

    The Utility’s insurance coverage may not be sufficient to cover losses caused by an operating failure or catastrophic events, including severe weather events, or may not be available at a reasonable cost, or available at all.
    The Utility has experienced increased costs and difficulties arein obtaining insurance coverage for wildfires that could arise from the Utility’s ordinary operations. PG&E Corporation, the Utility or its contractors and customers could continue to experience coverage reductions and/or increased wildfire insurance costs in future years.  No assurance can be given that future losses will not exceed the limits of the Utility’s insurance coverage.  Uninsured losses and increases in the cost of insurance may not be recoverable in customer rates.  A loss which is not fully insured or cannot be recovered in customer rates could materially affect PG&E Corporation’s and the Utility’s financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, and cash flows.
    As a result of the potential application to investor-owned utilities of a strict liability standard under the doctrine of inverse condemnation, recent losses recorded by insurance companies, the risk of increase of wildfires including as a result of the ongoing drought, the Northern California wildfires, and the Butte fire, the Utility may not be able to obtain sufficient insurance coverage in the future at a reasonable cost, or at all.  In addition, the Utility is unable to supply these devicespredict whether it would be allowed to recover in rates the increased costs of insurance or maintainthe costs of any uninsured losses.


    If the amount of insurance is insufficient or otherwise unavailable, or if the Utility is unable to obtain insurance at a reasonable cost or recover in rates the costs of any uninsured losses, PG&E Corporation’s and update their software, or provide other services to maintain these systems, the Utility’s metering, billing,financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, and electric network operationscash flows could be impacted and disrupted.

    materially affected.



    During the quarter ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, PG&E Corporation madedid not make any equity contributions totaling $215 million to the Utility in order to maintain the 52% common equity component of the Utility’s CPUC-authorized capital structure.  Neither PG&E Corporation nor the Utility made any sales of unregistered equity securities during the quarter ended September 30, 2017.

    Utility.


    Issuer Purchasesof Equity Securities


    During the quarter ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, PG&E Corporation did not redeem or repurchase any shares of common stock outstanding. PG&E Corporation does not have any preferred stock outstanding.  During the quarter ended SeptemberJune 30, 2017,2018, the Utility did not redeem or repurchase any shares of its various series of preferred stock outstanding.



    Ratio of EarningsEarnings to Fixed Charges and Ratio of Earnings to Combined Fixed Charges and Preferred Stock Dividends


    The Utility’s earnings to fixed charges ratio for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 was 2.60.(0.41).  The Utility’s earnings to combined fixed charges and preferred stock dividends ratio for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 was 2.58.(0.40).  The statement of the foregoing ratios, together with the statements of the computation of the foregoing ratios filed as Exhibits 12.1 and 12.2 hereto, are included herein for the purpose of incorporating such information and Exhibits into the Utility’s Registration Statement No. 333-215427.


    PG&E Corporation’s earnings to fixed charges ratio for the ninesix months ended SeptemberJune 30, 20172018 was 2.62.(0.40).  The statement of the foregoing ratio, together with the statement of the computation of the foregoing ratio filed as Exhibit 12.3 hereto, is included herein for the purpose of incorporating such information and Exhibit into PG&E Corporation’s Registration Statement No. 333-215425.


    77




    ITEM 6. EXHIBITS


    EXHIBIT INDEX

    *10.1

    10.1
    *10.2

    12.1

    *10.3

    *10.4
    12.1

    12.2

    12.3

    31.1

    31.2

    **32.1

    **32.2

    101.INS

    XBRL Instance Document

    101.SCH

    XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document

    101.CAL

    XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document

    101.LAB

    XBRL Taxonomy Extension Labels Linkbase Document

    101.PRE

    XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document

    101.DEF

    XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document

    *Management contract or compensatory agreement.

    **Pursuant to Item 601(b)(32) of SEC Regulation S-K, these exhibits are furnished rather than filed with this report.


    78




    SIGNATURES


    Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrants have duly caused this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q to be signed on their behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.


    PG&E CORPORATION

    /s/ JASON P. WELLS

    Jason P. Wells
    Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
    (duly authorized officer and principal financial officer)


    PACIFIC GAS AND ELECTRIC COMPANY

    /s/ DAVIDDAVID S. THOMASON

    David S. Thomason

    Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Controller


    (duly authorized officer and principal financial officer)


    Dated: November 2, 2017July 26, 2018