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 March 31, 2008
OR
[ ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from | to |
Commission | Registrant; State of Incorporation; | I.R.S. Employer |
File Number | Address; and Telephone Number | Identification No. |
333-21011 | FIRSTENERGY CORP. | 34-1843785 |
(An Ohio Corporation) | ||
76 South Main Street | ||
Akron, OH 44308 | ||
Telephone (800)736-3402 | ||
333-145140-01 | FIRSTENERGY SOLUTIONS CORP. | 31-1560186 |
(An Ohio Corporation) | ||
c/o FirstEnergy Corp. | ||
76 South Main Street | ||
Akron, OH 44308 | ||
Telephone (800)736-3402 | ||
1-2578 | OHIO EDISON COMPANY | 34-0437786 |
(An Ohio Corporation) | ||
c/o FirstEnergy Corp. | ||
76 South Main Street | ||
Akron, OH 44308 | ||
Telephone (800)736-3402 | ||
1-2323 | THE CLEVELAND ELECTRIC ILLUMINATING COMPANY | 34-0150020 |
(An Ohio Corporation) | ||
c/o FirstEnergy Corp. | ||
76 South Main Street | ||
Akron, OH 44308 | ||
Telephone (800)736-3402 | ||
1-3583 | THE TOLEDO EDISON COMPANY | 34-4375005 |
(An Ohio Corporation) | ||
c/o FirstEnergy Corp. | ||
76 South Main Street | ||
Akron, OH 44308 | ||
Telephone (800)736-3402 | ||
1-3141 | JERSEY CENTRAL POWER & LIGHT COMPANY | 21-0485010 |
(A New Jersey Corporation) | ||
c/o FirstEnergy Corp. | ||
76 South Main Street | ||
Akron, OH 44308 | ||
Telephone (800)736-3402 | ||
1-446 | METROPOLITAN EDISON COMPANY | 23-0870160 |
(A Pennsylvania Corporation) | ||
c/o FirstEnergy Corp. | ||
76 South Main Street | ||
Akron, OH 44308 | ||
Telephone (800)736-3402 | ||
1-3522 | PENNSYLVANIA ELECTRIC COMPANY | 25-0718085 |
(A Pennsylvania Corporation) | ||
c/o FirstEnergy Corp. | ||
76 South Main Street | ||
Akron, OH 44308 | ||
Telephone (800)736-3402 |
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.
Yes (X) No ( ) | FirstEnergy Corp., Ohio Edison Company and Pennsylvania Electric Company |
Yes ( ) No (X) | FirstEnergy Solutions Corp., The Cleveland Electric Illuminating Company, The Toledo Edison Company, Jersey Central Power & Light Company and Metropolitan Edison Company |
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large Accelerated Filer (X) | FirstEnergy Corp. |
Accelerated Filer ( ) | N/A |
Non-accelerated Filer (Do not check if a smaller reporting company) (X) | FirstEnergy Solutions Corp., Ohio Edison Company, The Cleveland Electric Illuminating Company, The Toledo Edison Company, Jersey Central Power & Light Company, Metropolitan Edison Company and Pennsylvania Electric Company |
Smaller Reporting Company ( ) | N/A |
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).
Yes ( ) No (X) | FirstEnergy Corp., FirstEnergy Solutions Corp., Ohio Edison Company, The Cleveland Electric Illuminating Company, The Toledo Edison Company, Jersey Central Power & Light Company, Metropolitan Edison Company, and Pennsylvania Electric Company |
Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date:
OUTSTANDING | |
CLASS | AS OF MAY 8, 2008 |
FirstEnergy Corp., $0.10 par value | 304,835,407 |
FirstEnergy Solutions Corp., no par value | 7 |
Ohio Edison Company, no par value | 60 |
The Cleveland Electric Illuminating Company, no par value | 67,930,743 |
The Toledo Edison Company, $5 par value | 29,402,054 |
Jersey Central Power & Light Company, $10 par value | 14,421,637 |
Metropolitan Edison Company, no par value | 859,500 |
Pennsylvania Electric Company, $20 par value | 4,427,577 |
FirstEnergy Corp. is the sole holder of FirstEnergy Solutions Corp., Ohio Edison Company, The Cleveland Electric Illuminating Company, The Toledo Edison Company, Jersey Central Power & Light Company, Metropolitan Edison Company and Pennsylvania Electric Company common stock.
This combined Form 10-Q is separately filed by FirstEnergy Corp., FirstEnergy Solutions Corp., Ohio Edison Company, The Cleveland Electric Illuminating Company, The Toledo Edison Company, Jersey Central Power & Light Company, Metropolitan Edison Company and Pennsylvania Electric Company. Information contained herein relating to any individual registrant is filed by such registrant on its own behalf. No registrant makes any representation as to information relating to any other registrant, except that information relating to any of the FirstEnergy subsidiary registrants is also attributed to FirstEnergy Corp.
OMISSION OF CERTAIN INFORMATION
FirstEnergy Solutions Corp., Ohio Edison Company, The Cleveland Electric Illuminating Company, The Toledo Edison Company, Jersey Central Power & Light Company, Metropolitan Edison Company and Pennsylvania Electric Company meet the conditions set forth in General Instruction H(1)(a) and (b) of Form 10-Q and are therefore filing this Form 10-Q with the reduced disclosure format specified in General Instruction H(2) to Form 10-Q.
Forward-Looking Statements: This Form 10-Q includes forward-looking statements based on information currently available to management. Such statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties. These statements include declarations regarding management’s intents, beliefs and current expectations. These statements typically contain, but are not limited to, the terms “anticipate,” “potential,” “expect,” “believe,” “estimate” and similar words. Forward-looking statements involve estimates, assumptions, known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievement expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.
Actual results may differ materially due to:
· | the speed and nature of increased competition in the electric utility industry and legislative and regulatory changes affecting how generation rates will be determined following the expiration of existing rate plans in Ohio and Pennsylvania, |
· | economic or weather conditions affecting future sales and margins, |
· | changes in markets for energy services, |
· | changing energy and commodity market prices, |
· | replacement power costs being higher than anticipated or inadequately hedged, |
· | the continued ability of FirstEnergy’s regulated utilities to collect transition and other charges or to recover increased transmission costs, |
· | maintenance costs being higher than anticipated, |
· | other legislative and regulatory changes, revised environmental requirements, including possible GHG emission regulations, |
· | the uncertainty of the timing and amounts of the capital expenditures needed to, among other things, implement the Air Quality Compliance Plan (including that such amounts could be higher than anticipated) or levels of emission reductions related to the Consent Decree resolving the New Source Review litigation or other potential regulatory initiatives, |
· | adverse regulatory or legal decisions and outcomes (including, but not limited to, the revocation of necessary licenses or operating permits and oversight) by the NRC (including, but not limited to, the Demand for Information issued to FENOC on May 14, 2007), |
· | the timing and outcome of various proceedings before the |
- | PUCO (including, but not limited to, the distribution rate cases and the generation supply plan filing for the Ohio Companies and the successful resolution of the issues remanded to the PUCO by the Ohio Supreme Court regarding the RSP and RCP, including the deferral of fuel costs) |
- | and Met-Ed’s and Penelec’s transmission service charge filings with the PPUC as well as the resolution of the Petitions for Review filed with the Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania with respect to the transition rate plan for Met-Ed and Penelec, |
· | the continuing availability of generating units and their ability to operate at, or near full capacity, |
· | the changing market conditions that could affect the value of assets held in the registrants’ nuclear decommissioning trusts, pension trusts and other trust funds, |
· | the ability to comply with applicable state and federal reliability standards, |
· | the ability to accomplish or realize anticipated benefits from strategic goals (including employee workforce initiatives), |
· | the ability to improve electric commodity margins and to experience growth in the distribution business, |
· | the ability to access the public securities and other capital markets and the cost of such capital, |
· | the risks and other factors discussed from time to time in the registrants’ SEC filings, and other similar factors. |
The foregoing review of factors should not be construed as exhaustive. New factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible to predict all such factors, nor assess the impact of any such factor on the registrants’ business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. Also, a security rating is not a recommendation to buy, sell or hold securities, and it may be subject to revision or withdrawal at any time and each such rating should be evaluated independently of any other rating. The registrants expressly disclaim any current intention to update any forward-looking statements contained herein as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Pages | ||
Glossary of Terms | iii-v | |
Part I. Financial Information | ||
Items 1. and 2. - Financial Statements and Management’s Discussion and Analysis ofFinancial Condition and Results of Operations. | ||
FirstEnergy Corp. | ||
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and | 1-32 | |
Results of Operations | ||
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm | 33 | |
Consolidated Statements of Income | 34 | |
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income | 35 | |
Consolidated Balance Sheets | 36 | |
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows | 37 | |
FirstEnergy Solutions Corp. | ||
Management's Narrative Analysis of Results of Operations | 38-40 | |
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm | 41 | |
Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income | 42 | |
Consolidated Balance Sheets | 43 | |
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows | 44 | |
Ohio Edison Company | ||
Management's Narrative Analysis of Results of Operations | 45-46 | |
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm | 47 | |
Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income | 48 | |
Consolidated Balance Sheets | 49 | |
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows | 50 | |
The Cleveland Electric Illuminating Company | ||
Management's Narrative Analysis of Results of Operations | 51-52 | |
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm | 53 | |
Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income | 54 | |
Consolidated Balance Sheets | 55 | |
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows | 56 | |
The Toledo Edison Company | ||
Management's Narrative Analysis of Results of Operations | 57-58 | |
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm | 59 | |
Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income | 60 | |
Consolidated Balance Sheets | 61 | |
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows | 62 | |
i
TABLE OF CONTENTS (Cont'd)
Jersey Central Power & Light Company | Pages | |
Management's Narrative Analysis of Results of Operations | 63-64 | |
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm | 65 | |
Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income | 66 | |
Consolidated Balance Sheets | 67 | |
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows | 68 | |
Metropolitan Edison Company | ||
Management's Narrative Analysis of Results of Operations | 69-70 | |
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm | 71 | |
Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income | 72 | |
Consolidated Balance Sheets | 73 | |
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows | 74 | |
Pennsylvania Electric Company | ||
Management's Narrative Analysis of Results of Operations | 75-76 | |
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm | 77 | |
Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income | 78 | |
Consolidated Balance Sheets | 79 | |
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows | 80 | |
Combined Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Registrant Subsidiaries | 81-94 | |
Combined Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements | 95-123 | |
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk. | 124 | |
Item 4. Controls and Procedures – FirstEnergy. | 124 | |
Item 4T. Controls and Procedures – FES, OE, CEI, TE, JCP&L, Met-Ed and Penelec. | 124 | |
Part II. Other Information | ||
Item 1. Legal Proceedings. | 125 | |
Item 1A. Risk Factors. | 125 | |
Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds. | 125 | |
Item 6. Exhibits. | 126 |
ii
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
The following abbreviations and acronyms are used in this report to identify FirstEnergy Corp. and its current and former subsidiaries:
ATSI | American Transmission Systems, Inc., owns and operates transmission facilities | |
CEI | The Cleveland Electric Illuminating Company, an Ohio electric utility operating subsidiary | |
Companies | OE, CEI, TE, JCP&L, Met-Ed and Penelec | |
FENOC | FirstEnergy Nuclear Operating Company, operates nuclear generating facilities | |
FES | FirstEnergy Solutions Corp., provides energy-related products and services | |
FESC | FirstEnergy Service Company, provides legal, financial and other corporate support services | |
FGCO | FirstEnergy Generation Corp., owns and operates non-nuclear generating facilities | |
FirstEnergy | FirstEnergy Corp., a public utility holding company | |
GPU | GPU, Inc., former parent of JCP&L, Met-Ed and Penelec, which merged with FirstEnergy on November 7, 2001 | |
JCP&L | Jersey Central Power & Light Company, a New Jersey electric utility operating subsidiary | |
JCP&L Transition Funding | JCP&L Transition Funding LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and issuer of transition bonds | |
JCP&L Transition Funding II | JCP&L Transition Funding II LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and issuer of transition bonds | |
Met-Ed | Metropolitan Edison Company, a Pennsylvania electric utility operating subsidiary | |
NGC | FirstEnergy Nuclear Generation Corp., owns nuclear generating facilities | |
OE | Ohio Edison Company, an Ohio electric utility operating subsidiary | |
Ohio Companies | CEI, OE and TE | |
Penelec | Pennsylvania Electric Company, a Pennsylvania electric utility operating subsidiary | |
Penn | Pennsylvania Power Company, a Pennsylvania electric utility operating subsidiary of OE | |
Pennsylvania Companies | Met-Ed, Penelec and Penn | |
PNBV | PNBV Capital Trust, a special purpose entity created by OE in 1996 | |
Shippingport | Shippingport Capital Trust, a special purpose entity created by CEI and TE in 1997 | |
TE | The Toledo Edison Company, an Ohio electric utility operating subsidiary | |
TEBSA | Termobarranquila S.A. Empresa de Servicios Publicos | |
The following abbreviations and acronyms are used to identify frequently used terms in this report: | ||
AEP | American Electric Power Company, Inc. | |
AOCL | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss | |
AQC | Air Quality Control | |
ARB | Accounting Research Bulletin | |
ARO | Asset Retirement Obligation | |
ASM | Ancillary Services Market | |
BGS | Basic Generation Service | |
BPJ | Best Professional Judgment | |
CAA | Clean Air Act | |
CAIR | Clean Air Interstate Rule | |
CAMR | Clean Air Mercury Rule | |
CBP | Competitive Bid Process | |
CO2 | Carbon Dioxide | |
DFI | Demand for Information | |
DOJ | United States Department of Justice | |
DRA | Division of Ratepayer Advocate | |
EIS | Energy Independence Strategy | |
EITF | Emerging Issues Task Force | |
EMP | Energy Master Plan | |
EPA | United States Environmental Protection Agency | |
EPACT | Energy Policy Act of 2005 | |
ESP | Electric Security Plan | |
FASB | Financial Accounting Standards Board | |
FERC | Federal Energy Regulatory Commission | |
FIN | FASB Interpretation | |
FIN 46R | FIN 46 (revised December 2003), "Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities" | |
FIN 47 | FIN 47, "Accounting for Conditional Asset Retirement Obligations - an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 143" | |
FIN 48 | FIN 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes - an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109” | |
FirstCom | First Communications, Inc. |
iii
GLOSSARY OF TERMS, Cont’d.
FMB | First Mortgage Bonds | |
FSP | FASB Staff Position | |
FSP FAS 157-2 | FSP FAS 157-2, “Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 157” | |
FTR | Financial Transmission Rights | |
GAAP | Accounting Principles Generally Accepted in the United States | |
GHG | Greenhouse Gases | |
ICE | Intercontinental Exchange | |
IRS | Internal Revenue Service | |
ISO | Independent System Operator | |
kV | Kilovolt | |
KWH | Kilowatt-hours | |
LIBOR | London Interbank Offered Rate | |
LOC | Letter of Credit | |
MEIUG | Met-Ed Industrial Users Group | |
MISO | Midwest Independent Transmission System Operator, Inc. | |
Moody’s | Moody’s Investors Service | |
MRO | Market Rate Offer | |
MW | Megawatts | |
NAAQS | National Ambient Air Quality Standards | |
NERC | North American Electric Reliability Corporation | |
NJBPU | New Jersey Board of Public Utilities | |
NOPR | Notice of Proposed Rulemaking | |
NOV | Notice of Violation | |
NOX | Nitrogen Oxide | |
NRC | Nuclear Regulatory Commission | |
NSR | New Source Review | |
NUG | Non-Utility Generation | |
NUGC | Non-Utility Generation Charge | |
NYMEX | New York Mercantile Exchange | |
OCA | Office of Consumer Advocate | |
OTC | Over the Counter | |
OVEC | Ohio Valley Electric Corporation | |
PCRB | Pollution Control Revenue Bond | |
PICA | Penelec Industrial Customer Alliance | |
PJM | PJM Interconnection L. L. C. | |
PLR | Provider of Last Resort | |
PPUC | Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission | |
PRP | Potentially Responsible Party | |
PSA | Power Supply Agreement | |
PUCO | Public Utilities Commission of Ohio | |
PUHCA | Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935 | |
RCP | Rate Certainty Plan | |
RECB | Regional Expansion Criteria and Benefits | |
RFP | Request for Proposal | |
RPM | Reliability Pricing Model | |
RSP | Rate Stabilization Plan | |
RTO | Regional Transmission Organization | |
S&P | Standard & Poor’s Ratings Service | |
SBC | Societal Benefits Charge | |
SEC | U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission | |
SECA | Seams Elimination Cost Adjustment | |
SFAS | Statement of Financial Accounting Standards | |
SFAS 109 | SFAS No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes” | |
SFAS 123(R) | SFAS No. 123(R), "Share-Based Payment" | |
SFAS 133 | SFAS No. 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities” | |
SFAS 141(R) | SFAS No 141(R), “Business Combinations” | |
SFAS 143 | SFAS No. 143, “Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations” | |
SFAS 157 | SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements” | |
SFAS 159 | SFAS No. 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities – Including an Amendment of FASB Statement No. 115” | |
SFAS 160 | SFAS No. 160, “Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements – an Amendment of ARB No. 51” | |
SFAS 161 | SFAS No 161, “Disclosure about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities – an Amendment of FASB Statement No. 133” |
iv
GLOSSARY OF TERMS, Cont’d.
SIP | State Implementation Plan(s) Under the Clean Air Act |
SNCR | Selective Non-Catalytic Reduction |
SO2 | Sulfur Dioxide |
TBC | Transition Bond Charge |
TMI-1 | Three Mile Island Unit 1 |
TMI-2 | Three Mile Island Unit 2 |
TSC | Transmission Service Charge |
VIE | Variable Interest Entity |
v
PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEMS 1. AND 2. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.
FIRSTENERGY CORP.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Net income in the first quarter of 2008 was $276 million, or basic earnings of $0.91 per share of common stock ($0.90 diluted), compared with net income of $290 million, or basic and diluted earnings of $0.92 per share in the first quarter of 2007. The decrease in FirstEnergy’s earnings was driven primarily by increased operating expenses, partially offset by increased revenues.
Change in Basic Earnings Per Share From Prior Year First Quarter | ||
Basic Earnings Per Share – First Quarter 2007 | $ 0.92 | |
Gain on non-core asset sales – 2008 | 0.06 | |
Saxton decommissioning regulatory asset – 2007 | (0.05) | |
Trust securities impairment | (0.02) | |
Revenues | 0.55 | |
Fuel and purchased power | (0.42) | |
Depreciation and amortization | (0.03) | |
Deferral of new regulatory assets | (0.03) | |
Energy Delivery O&M expenses | (0.03) | |
General taxes | (0.02) | |
Corporate-owned life insurance | (0.06) | |
Other expenses | 0.01 | |
Reduced common shares outstanding | 0.03 | |
Basic Earnings Per Share – First Quarter 2008 | $ 0.91 |
Regulatory Matters - Ohio
Legislative Process
On April 22, 2008, an amended version of Substitute Senate Bill 221 (Substitute SB221) was passed by the Ohio House of Representatives and sent back to the Ohio Senate for concurrence. On April 23, 2008, the Ohio Senate approved the House's amendments to Substitute SB221 and forwarded the bill to the Governor for signature, which he signed on May 1, 2008. Amended Substitute SB221 requires all electric distribution utilities to file an RSP, now called an ESP, with the PUCO. An ESP is required to contain a proposal for the supply and pricing of retail generation. A utility could also simultaneously file an MRO in which it would have to demonstrate the following objective market criteria: The utility or its transmission service affiliate belongs to a FERC-approved RTO having a market-monitor function and the ability to mitigate market power, and a published source exists that identifies information for traded electricity and energy products that are contracted for delivery two years into the future. The PUCO would test the ESP and its pricing and all other terms and conditions against the MRO and may only approve the ESP if it is found to be more favorable to customers. As part of an ESP with a plan period longer than three years, the PUCO shall prospectively determine every fourth year of the plan whether it is substantially likely the plan will provide the electric distribution utility a return on common equity significantly in excess of the return likely to be earned by publicly traded companies, including utilities, that face comparable business and financial risk (comparable companies). If so, the PUCO may terminate the ESP. Annually under an ESP, the PUCO shall determine whether an electric distribution utility's earned return on common equity is significantly in excess of returns earned on common equity during the same period by comparable companies, and if so, shall require the utility to return such excess to customers by prospective adjustments. Amended Substitute SB221 also includes provisions dealing with advanced and renewable energy standards and energy efficiency, including requirements to meet annual benchmarks. FirstEnergy is currently evaluating this legislation and expects to file an ESP in the second or third quarter of 2008.
1
Distribution Rate Request
On February 25, 2008, evidentiary hearings concluded in the distribution rate requests for the Ohio Companies. The requests for $332 million in revenue increases were filed on June 7, 2007. Public hearings were held from March 5, 2008 through March 24, 2008. Main briefs were filed on March 28, 2008, and reply briefs were filed on April 18, 2008. The PUCO is expected to render its decision during the second or third quarter of 2008 (see Outlook – Ohio).
Regulatory Matters - Pennsylvania
Penn’s Interim Default Service Supply
On March 13, 2008, the PPUC approved the residential procurement process in Penn’s Joint Petition for Settlement. This RFP process calls for load-following, full-requirements contracts for default service procurement for residential customers for the period covering June 1, 2008 through May 31, 2011. The PPUC had previously approved the default service procurement processes for commercial and industrial customers. The default service procurement for small commercial customers was conducted through multiple RFPs, while the default service procurement for large commercial and industrial customers will utilize hourly pricing. Bids in the two RFPs for small commercial load were approved by the PPUC on February 22, 2008, and March 20, 2008. On March 28, 2008, Penn filed compliance tariffs with the new default service generation rates based on the approved RFP bids for small commercial customers which the PPUC then certified on April 4, 2008. On April 14, 2008, the first RFP for residential customers’ load was held consisting of tranches for both 12 and 24-month supply. The PPUC approved the bids on April 16, 2008. The second RFP is scheduled to be held on May 14, 2008, after which time the PPUC is expected to approve the new rates to go into effect June 1, 2008.
Met-Ed and Penelec Transmission Service Charge Filing
On April 14, 2008, Met-Ed and Penelec filed annual updates to the TSC rider for the period June 1, 2008, through May 31, 2009. The proposed TSCs include a component for under-recovery of actual transmission costs incurred during the prior period (Met-Ed - $144 million and Penelec - $4 million) and future transmission cost projections for June 2008 through May 2009 (Met-Ed - $258 million and Penelec - $92 million). Met-Ed has proposed a transition approach that would recover past under-recovered costs plus carrying charges through the new TSC over thirty-one months and defer a portion of the projected costs ($92 million) plus carrying charges for recovery through future TSCs by December 31, 2010.
Generation
Generation Output Record
FirstEnergy set a new first quarter generation output record of 20.4 million megawatt-hours, a 1.8% increase over the prior record established in the first quarter of 2006.
Refueling Outage
On April 14, 2008, Beaver Valley Unit 2 began its regularly scheduled refueling outage. During the outage, several improvement projects will take place on the 868-MW unit including replacing the high pressure turbine and inspecting the reactor vessel and other plant safety systems. Beaver Valley Unit 2 had operated for 520 consecutive days when it was taken off line for the outage.
Maintenance Outage
On April 14, 2008, the Perry Nuclear Power Plant returned to service following completion of a 10-day planned outage for valve work and other maintenance in preparation for the upcoming summer months.
Financial Matters
Acquisition of Additional Equity Interests in Beaver Valley Unit 2
On March 3, 2008, notice was given to the nine owner trusts that are lessors under sale and leaseback transactions, originally entered into by TE in 1987, that NGC would acquire the related 18.26% undivided interest in Beaver Valley Unit 2 through the exercise of the periodic purchase option provided for in the applicable facility leases. The purchase price to be paid by NGC for the undivided interest will be equal to the higher of a specified casualty value under the applicable facility leases (approximately $239 million in the aggregate for the equity portion of all nine facility leases) and the fair market sales value of such undivided interests. Determination of the fair market sales value may become subject to an appraisal procedure provided for in the lease documentation. An additional payment of approximately $236 million would be required to prepay in full the outstanding principal of, and accrued but unpaid interest on, the lessor notes of the nine owner trusts. Alternatively, this amount would not be paid as part of the aggregate purchase price if the lessor notes are instead assumed at the time of the exercise of the option. If NGC determines to prepay the notes, it is possible that the proceeds from such prepayment may not be sufficient to pay the principal of, and interest on, the bonds as they become due. If that is the case, NGC would provide a mechanism to address any such potential shortfall in a timely manner.
2
Repurchase and Remarketing of Auction Rate Bonds
Between February 27, 2008 and April 2, 2008, FirstEnergy’s subsidiaries repurchased all of their tax-exempt long-term PCRBs originally sold at auction rates ($530 million) in response to disruptions in the auction rate securities market. In February 2008, FGCO, NGC, Met-Ed and Penelec elected to convert all of their then outstanding auction rate PCRBs to a weekly rate mode, which required their mandatory purchase of these PCRBs on the applicable conversion dates. The companies initially funded the repurchase with short-term debt. On April 22, 2008, Met-Ed ($28.5 million) and Penelec ($45 million) successfully marketed their converted PCRBs in a variable-rate mode. Subject to market conditions, FGCO and NGC plan to remarket their converted PCRBs later in 2008, either in fixed-rate or variable-rate modes.
Non-Core Asset Sale
On March 7, 2008, FirstEnergy sold substantially all of the assets of FirstEnergy Telecom Services, Inc. to FirstCom for $45 million in cash, with FirstCom also assuming related liabilities. The sale resulted in an after-tax gain of approximately $0.06 per share. FirstEnergy is a 15.6% shareholder in FirstCom.
FIRSTENERGY’S BUSINESS
FirstEnergy is a diversified energy company headquartered in Akron, Ohio, that operates primarily through three core business segments (see Results of Operations).
· | Energy Delivery Services transmits and distributes electricity through FirstEnergy’s eight utility operating companies, serving 4.5 million customers within 36,100 square miles of Ohio, Pennsylvania and New Jersey and purchases power for its PLR and default service requirements in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. This business segment derives its revenues principally from the delivery of electricity within FirstEnergy’s service areas at regulated rates, cost recovery of regulatory assets and the sale of electric generation service to retail customers who have not selected an alternative supplier (default service) in its Pennsylvania and New Jersey franchise areas. The segment’s net income reflects the commodity costs of securing electricity from FirstEnergy’s competitive energy services segment under partial requirements purchased power agreements with FES and from non-affiliated power suppliers, including, in each case, associated transmission costs. |
· | Competitive Energy Services supplies the electric power needs of end-use customers through retail and wholesale arrangements, including associated company power sales to meet all or a portion of the PLR and default service requirements of FirstEnergy’s Ohio and Pennsylvania utility subsidiaries and competitive retail sales to customers primarily in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Maryland and Michigan. This business segment owns or leases and operates 19 generating facilities with a net demonstrated capacity of approximately 13,664 MW and also purchases electricity to meet sales obligations. The segment's net income is primarily derived from affiliated company power sales and non-affiliated electric generation sales revenues less the related costs of electricity generation, including purchased power and net transmission and ancillary costs charged by PJM and MISO to deliver energy to the segment’s customers. |
· | Ohio Transitional Generation Services supplies the electric power needs of non-shopping customers under the default service requirements of the Ohio Companies. The segment's net income is primarily derived from electric generation sales revenues less the cost of power purchased from the competitive energy services segment through a full-requirements PSA arrangement with FES, including net transmission and ancillary costs charged by MISO to deliver energy to retail customers. |
3
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The financial results discussed below include revenues and expenses from transactions among FirstEnergy's business segments. A reconciliation of segment financial results is provided in Note 13 to the consolidated financial statements. Net income by major business segment was as follows:
Three Months Ended | ||||||||||||
March 31, | Increase | |||||||||||
2008 | 2007 | (Decrease) | ||||||||||
Net Income | (In millions, except per share data) | |||||||||||
By Business Segment | ||||||||||||
Energy delivery services | $ | 179 | $ | 218 | $ | (39 | ) | |||||
Competitive energy services | 87 | 98 | (11 | ) | ||||||||
Ohio transitional generation services | 23 | 24 | (1 | ) | ||||||||
Other and reconciling adjustments* | (13 | ) | (50 | ) | 37 | |||||||
Total | $ | 276 | $ | 290 | $ | (14 | ) | |||||
Basic Earnings Per Share | $ | 0.91 | $ | 0.92 | $ | (0.01 | ) | |||||
Diluted Earnings Per Share | $ | 0.90 | $ | 0.92 | $ | (0.02 | ) |
* Consists primarily of interest expense related to holding company debt, corporate support services revenues and expenses, telecommunications services and elimination of intersegment transactions.
Summary of Results of Operations – First Quarter 2008 Compared with First Quarter 2007
Financial results for FirstEnergy's major business segments in the first three months of 2008 and 2007 were as follows:
Ohio | ||||||||||||||||||||
Energy | Competitive | Transitional | Other and | |||||||||||||||||
Delivery | Energy | Generation | Reconciling | FirstEnergy | ||||||||||||||||
First Quarter 2008 Financial Results | Services | Services | Services | Adjustments | Consolidated | |||||||||||||||
(In millions) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Revenues: | ||||||||||||||||||||
External | ||||||||||||||||||||
Electric | $ | 2,050 | $ | 289 | $ | 691 | $ | - | $ | 3,030 | ||||||||||
Other | 162 | 40 | 16 | 29 | 247 | |||||||||||||||
Internal | - | 776 | - | (776 | ) | - | ||||||||||||||
Total Revenues | 2,212 | 1,105 | 707 | (747 | ) | 3,277 | ||||||||||||||
Expenses: | ||||||||||||||||||||
Fuel and purchased power | 983 | 533 | 588 | (776 | ) | 1,328 | ||||||||||||||
Other operating expenses | 445 | 309 | 77 | (31 | ) | 800 | ||||||||||||||
Provision for depreciation | 106 | 53 | - | 5 | 164 | |||||||||||||||
Amortization of regulatory assets | 249 | - | 9 | - | 258 | |||||||||||||||
Deferral of new regulatory assets | (100 | ) | - | (5 | ) | - | (105 | ) | ||||||||||||
General taxes | 173 | 32 | 1 | 9 | 215 | |||||||||||||||
Total Expenses | 1,856 | 927 | 670 | (793 | ) | 2,660 | ||||||||||||||
Operating Income | 356 | 178 | 37 | 46 | 617 | |||||||||||||||
Other Income (Expense): | ||||||||||||||||||||
Investment income | 45 | (6 | ) | 1 | (23 | ) | 17 | |||||||||||||
Interest expense | (103 | ) | (34 | ) | - | (42 | ) | (179 | ) | |||||||||||
Capitalized interest | - | 7 | - | 1 | 8 | |||||||||||||||
Total Other Income (Expense) | (58 | ) | (33 | ) | 1 | (64 | ) | (154 | ) | |||||||||||
Income Before Income Taxes | 298 | 145 | 38 | (18 | ) | 463 | ||||||||||||||
Income taxes | 119 | 58 | 15 | (5 | ) | 187 | ||||||||||||||
Net Income | $ | 179 | $ | 87 | $ | 23 | $ | (13 | ) | $ | 276 |
4
Ohio | ||||||||||||||||||||
Energy | Competitive | Transitional | Other and | |||||||||||||||||
Delivery | Energy | Generation | Reconciling | FirstEnergy | ||||||||||||||||
First Quarter 2007 Financial Results | Services | Services | Services | Adjustments | Consolidated | |||||||||||||||
(In millions) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Revenues: | ||||||||||||||||||||
External | ||||||||||||||||||||
Electric | $ | 1,875 | $ | 276 | $ | 613 | $ | - | $ | 2,764 | ||||||||||
Other | 165 | 45 | 6 | (7 | ) | 209 | ||||||||||||||
Internal | - | 714 | - | (714 | ) | - | ||||||||||||||
Total Revenues | 2,040 | 1,035 | 619 | (721 | ) | 2,973 | ||||||||||||||
Expenses: | ||||||||||||||||||||
Fuel and purchased power | 844 | 447 | 544 | (714 | ) | 1,121 | ||||||||||||||
Other operating expenses | 408 | 300 | 49 | (8 | ) | 749 | ||||||||||||||
Provision for depreciation | 98 | 51 | - | 7 | 156 | |||||||||||||||
Amortization of regulatory assets | 246 | - | 5 | - | 251 | |||||||||||||||
Deferral of new regulatory assets | (124 | ) | - | (20 | ) | - | (144 | ) | ||||||||||||
General taxes | 165 | 28 | 2 | 8 | 203 | |||||||||||||||
Total Expenses | 1,637 | 826 | 580 | (707 | ) | 2,336 | ||||||||||||||
Operating Income | 403 | 209 | 39 | (14 | ) | 637 | ||||||||||||||
Other Income (Expense): | ||||||||||||||||||||
Investment income | 70 | 3 | 1 | (41 | ) | 33 | ||||||||||||||
Interest expense | (109 | ) | (52 | ) | (1 | ) | (23 | ) | (185 | ) | ||||||||||
Capitalized interest | 2 | 3 | - | - | 5 | |||||||||||||||
Total Other income (Expense) | (37 | ) | (46 | ) | - | (64 | ) | (147 | ) | |||||||||||
Income Before Income Taxes | 366 | 163 | 39 | (78 | ) | 490 | ||||||||||||||
Income taxes | 148 | 65 | 15 | (28 | ) | 200 | ||||||||||||||
Net Income | $ | 218 | $ | 98 | $ | 24 | $ | (50 | ) | $ | 290 | |||||||||
Changes Between First Quarter 2008 and | ||||||||||||||||||||
First Quarter 2007 Financial Results | ||||||||||||||||||||
Increase (Decrease) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Revenues: | ||||||||||||||||||||
External | ||||||||||||||||||||
Electric | $ | 175 | $ | 13 | $ | 78 | $ | - | $ | 266 | ||||||||||
Other | (3 | ) | (5 | ) | 10 | 36 | 38 | |||||||||||||
Internal | - | 62 | - | (62 | ) | - | ||||||||||||||
Total Revenues | 172 | 70 | 88 | (26 | ) | 304 | ||||||||||||||
Expenses: | ||||||||||||||||||||
Fuel and purchased power | 139 | 86 | 44 | (62 | ) | 207 | ||||||||||||||
Other operating expenses | 37 | 9 | 28 | (23 | ) | 51 | ||||||||||||||
Provision for depreciation | 8 | 2 | - | (2 | ) | 8 | ||||||||||||||
Amortization of regulatory assets | 3 | - | 4 | - | 7 | |||||||||||||||
Deferral of new regulatory assets | 24 | - | 15 | - | 39 | |||||||||||||||
General taxes | 8 | 4 | (1 | ) | 1 | 12 | ||||||||||||||
Total Expenses | 219 | 101 | 90 | (86 | ) | 324 | ||||||||||||||
Operating Income | (47 | ) | (31 | ) | (2 | ) | 60 | (20 | ) | |||||||||||
Other Income (Expense): | ||||||||||||||||||||
Investment income | (25 | ) | (9 | ) | - | 18 | (16 | ) | ||||||||||||
Interest expense | 6 | 18 | 1 | (19 | ) | 6 | ||||||||||||||
Capitalized interest | (2 | ) | 4 | - | 1 | 3 | ||||||||||||||
Total Other Income (Expense) | (21 | ) | 13 | 1 | - | (7 | ) | |||||||||||||
Income Before Income Taxes | (68 | ) | (18 | ) | (1 | ) | 60 | (27 | ) | |||||||||||
Income taxes | (29 | ) | (7 | ) | - | 23 | (13 | ) | ||||||||||||
Net Income | $ | (39 | ) | $ | (11 | ) | $ | (1 | ) | $ | 37 | $ | (14 | ) |
5
Energy Delivery Services – First Quarter 2008 Compared with First Quarter 2007
Net income decreased $39 million to $179 million in the first three months of 2008 compared to $218 million in the first three months of 2007, primarily due to higher operating expenses partially offset by increased revenues.
Revenues –
The increase in total revenues resulted from the following sources:
Three Months Ended | ||||||||||
March 31, | Increase | |||||||||
Revenues by Type of Service | 2008 | 2007 | (Decrease) | |||||||
(In millions) | ||||||||||
Distribution services | $ | 955 | $ | 944 | $ | 11 | ||||
Generation sales: | ||||||||||
Retail | 790 | 720 | 70 | |||||||
Wholesale | 219 | 132 | 87 | |||||||
Total generation sales | 1,009 | 852 | 157 | |||||||
Transmission | 197 | 183 | 14 | |||||||
Other | 51 | 61 | (10 | ) | ||||||
Total Revenues | $ | 2,212 | $ | 2,040 | $ | 172 |
The change in distribution deliveries by customer class is summarized in the following table:
Electric Distribution KWH Deliveries | ||||
Residential | 2.4 | % | ||
Commercial | 1.9 | % | ||
Industrial | (1.0 | )% | ||
Total Distribution KWH Deliveries | 1.2 | % |
The increase in electric distribution deliveries to customers was primarily due to increased weather-related usage in the Ohio Companies’ and Penn’s service territories during the first three months of 2008 compared to the same period of 2007 (heating degree days increased 2.4%). The higher revenues from increased distribution deliveries were partially offset by the residual effects of the distribution rate decreases for Met-Ed and Penelec as a result of a January 11, 2007 PPUC rate decision (see Outlook – State Regulatory Matters – Pennsylvania).
The following table summarizes the price and volume factors contributing to the $157 million increase in generation revenues in the first quarter of 2008 compared to the first quarter of 2007:
Sources of Change in Generation Revenues | Increase (Decrease) | |||
(In millions) | ||||
Retail: | ||||
Effect of 0.7% decrease in sales volumes | $ | (5 | ) | |
Change in prices | 75 | |||
70 | ||||
Wholesale: | ||||
Effect of 8.9% increase in sales volumes | 12 | |||
Change in prices | 75 | |||
87 | ||||
Net Increase in Generation Revenues | $ | 157 |
The decrease in retail generation sales volumes was primarily due to an increase in customer shopping in Penn’s and JCP&L’s service territories in the first three months of 2008. The increase in retail generation prices during the first three months of 2008 reflected increased generation rates for JCP&L resulting from the New Jersey BGS auction process and an increase in NUGC rates authorized by the NJBPU. Wholesale generation sales increased principally as a result of Met-Ed and Penelec selling additional available power into the PJM market. The increase in prices reflected higher spot market prices for PJM market participants.
Transmission revenues increased $14 million primarily due to higher transmission rates for Met-Ed and Penelec resulting from the January 2007 PPUC authorization of transmission cost recovery. Met-Ed and Penelec defer the difference between revenues from their transmission rider and transmission costs incurred with no material effect on current period earnings (see Outlook – State Regulatory Matters – Pennsylvania).
6
Expenses –
The increases in revenues discussed above were offset by a $219 million increase in expenses due to the following:
· | Purchased power costs were $139 million higher in the first three months of 2008 due to higher unit costs and a decrease in the amount of NUG costs deferred. The increased unit costs reflected the effect of higher JCP&L costs resulting from the BGS auction process. JCP&L is permitted to defer for future collection from customers the amounts by which its costs of supplying BGS to non-shopping customers and costs incurred under NUG agreements exceed amounts collected through BGS and NUGC rates and market sales of NUG energy and capacity. The following table summarizes the sources of changes in purchased power costs: |
Source of Change in Purchased Power | Increase (Decrease) | |||
(In millions) | ||||
Purchases from non-affiliates: | ||||
Change due to increased unit costs | $ | 84 | ||
Change due to decreased volumes | (18 | ) | ||
66 | ||||
Purchases from FES: | ||||
Change due to decreased unit costs | (4 | ) | ||
Change due to increased volumes | 17 | |||
13 | ||||
Decrease in NUG costs deferred | 60 | |||
Net Increase in Purchased Power Costs | $ | 139 |
· | Other operating expenses increased $37 million due primarily to the effects of: |
- | An increase of $15 million in MISO and PJM transmission expenses, resulting primarily from higher congestion costs (see transmission revenues discussion above). |
- | An increase in operation and maintenance expenses of $11 million for storm restoration work during the first quarter of 2008. |
- | An increase in labor expenses of $9 million primarily due to an increase in the number of employees in the first quarter of 2008 compared to 2007 as a result of the segment’s workforce initiatives. |
· | An increase of $3 million in amortization of regulatory assets compared to 2007 due primarily to recovery of deferred BGS costs through higher NUGC rates for JCP&L. |
· | The deferral of new regulatory assets during the first three months of 2008 was $24 million lower primarily due to the absence of the deferral in 2007 of decommissioning costs related to the Saxton nuclear research facility. |
· | Depreciation expense increased $8 million due to property additions since the first quarter of 2007. |
· | General taxes increased $8 million due to higher property taxes and gross receipts taxes. |
Other Expense –
Other expense increased $21 million in 2008 compared to the first three months of 2007 primarily due to lower investment income of $25 million resulting from the repayment of notes receivable from affiliates since the first quarter of 2007, partially offset by lower interest expense (net of capitalized interest) of $4 million.
Competitive Energy Services – First Quarter 2008 Compared with First Quarter 2007
Net income for this segment was $87 million in the first three months of 2008 compared to $98 million in the same period in 2007. The $11 million reduction in net income reflects a decrease in gross generation margin and higher operating costs which were partially offset by lower interest expense.
7
Revenues –
Total revenues increased $70 million in the first three months of 2008 compared to the same period in 2007. This increase primarily resulted from higher unit prices on affiliated generation sales to the Ohio Companies and increased non-affiliated wholesale sales, which were partially offset by lower retail sales.
The increase in reported segment revenues resulted from the following sources:
Three Months Ended | ||||||||||
March 31, | Increase | |||||||||
Revenues by Type of Service | 2008 | 2007 | (Decrease) | |||||||
(In millions) | ||||||||||
Non-Affiliated Generation Sales: | ||||||||||
Retail | $ | 160 | $ | 174 | $ | (14 | ) | |||
Wholesale | 129 | 103 | 26 | |||||||
Total Non-Affiliated Generation Sales | 289 | 277 | 12 | |||||||
Affiliated Generation Sales | 776 | 714 | 62 | |||||||
Transmission | 33 | 23 | 10 | |||||||
Other | 7 | 21 | (14 | ) | ||||||
Total Revenues | $ | 1,105 | $ | 1,035 | $ | 70 |
The lower retail revenues resulted from decreased sales in the PJM market, partially offset by increased sales in the MISO market. The decrease in PJM retail sales is primarily the result of lower contract renewals for commercial and industrial customers. The increase in MISO retail sales is primarily the result of capturing more shopping customers in Penn’s service territory, partially offset by lower customer usage. Higher non-affiliated wholesale revenues resulted from the effect of increased generation available for the non-affiliated wholesale market.
The increased affiliated company generation revenues were due to increased sales volumes and higher unit prices for the Ohio Companies, partially offset by lower unit prices for the Pennsylvania Companies. The increase in PSA sales to the Ohio Companies was due to their higher retail generation sales requirements. The higher unit prices reflected increases in the Ohio Companies’ retail generation rates. The higher sales to the Pennsylvania Companies were due to increased Met-Ed and Penelec generation sales requirements. These increases were partially offset by lower sales to Penn due to a 45% increase in customer shopping in the first quarter of 2008 compared to the first quarter of 2007.
The following tables summarize the price and volume factors contributing to changes in revenues from generation sales:
Source of Change in Non-Affiliated Generation Revenues | Increase (Decrease) | |||
(In millions) | ||||
Retail: | ||||
Effect of 9.0% decrease in sales volumes | $ | (16 | ) | |
Change in prices | 2 | |||
(14 | ) | |||
Wholesale: | ||||
Effect of 3.5% increase in sales volumes | 4 | |||
Change in prices | 22 | |||
26 | ||||
Net Increase in Non-Affiliated Generation Revenues | $ | 12 |
Source of Change in Affiliated Generation Revenues | Increase (Decrease) | |||
(In millions) | ||||
Ohio Companies: | ||||
Effect of 1.2% increase in sales volumes | $ | 6 | ||
Change in prices | 44 | |||
50 | ||||
Pennsylvania Companies: | ||||
Effect of 9.0% increase in sales volumes | 16 | |||
Change in prices | (4 | ) | ||
12 | ||||
Net Increase in Affiliated Generation Revenues | $ | 62 |
8
Transmission revenues increased $10 million due to increased retail load in the MISO market and higher transmission rates ($12 million), partially offset by reduced financial transmission rights auction revenue ($2 million). Other revenue decreased $14 million primarily due to lower interest income from short-term investments.
Expenses -
Total expenses increased $101 million in the first three months of 2008 due to the following factors:
· | Fossil fuel costs increased $68 million due to increased generation volumes ($37 million) and higher unit prices ($31 million). The increased unit prices primarily reflect higher coal transportation costs ($24 million) and increased emission allowance costs ($5 million) in the first quarter of 2008. |
· | Purchased power costs increased $20 million due primarily to higher market rates, partially offset by reduced volume requirements due to increased generation from internal resources. |
· | Nuclear operating costs increased $23 million due to this year’s Davis-Besse refueling outage and the preparatory work associated with the Beaver Valley Unit 2 refueling outage scheduled for the second quarter of 2008. |
· | Other expense increased $15 million due primarily to the assignment of CEI’s and TE’s leasehold interests in the Bruce Mansfield Plant to FGCO in the fourth quarter of 2007 ($7 million) and reduced earnings on life insurance investments during the first quarter of 2008 ($6 million). |
· | Higher depreciation expenses of $2 million were due to property additions since the first quarter of 2007. |
· | Higher general taxes of $4 million resulted from increased gross receipts taxes and property taxes. |
Partially offsetting the higher costs were:
· | Fossil operating costs were $23 million lower due to fewer outages in 2008 compared to 2007 and increased gains on emission allowance sales. |
· | Transmission expense declined $7 million due to reduced PJM congestion charges and a change in MISO revenue sufficiency guarantee settlements. |
Other Expense –
Total other expense in the first three months of 2008 was $13 million lower than the first quarter of 2007, primarily due to a decline in interest expense (net of capitalized interest) of $22 million due to the repayment of notes payable to affiliates since the first quarter of 2007 and a $2 million increase in earnings from nuclear decommissioning trust investments, partially offset by an $11 million increase in trust securities impairments.
Ohio Transitional Generation Services – First Quarter 2008 Compared with First Quarter 2007
Net income for this segment decreased to $23 million in the first three months of 2008 from $24 million in the same period of 2007. Higher operating expenses, primarily for purchased power, were almost entirely offset by higher generation revenues.
Revenues –
The increase in reported segment revenues resulted from the following sources:
Three Months Ended | ||||||||||
March 31, | ||||||||||
Revenues by Type of Service | 2008 | 2007 | Increase | |||||||
(In millions) | ||||||||||
Generation sales: | ||||||||||
Retail | $ | 606 | $ | 546 | $ | 60 | ||||
Wholesale | 3 | 2 | 1 | |||||||
Total generation sales | 609 | 548 | 61 | |||||||
Transmission | 93 | 71 | 22 | |||||||
Other | 5 | - | 5 | |||||||
Total Revenues | $ | 707 | $ | 619 | $ | 88 |
9
The following table summarizes the price and volume factors contributing to the increase in sales revenues from retail customers:
Source of Change in Retail Generation Revenues | Increase | |||
(In millions) | ||||
Effect of 1.3% increase in sales volumes | $ | 7 | ||
Change in prices | 53 | |||
Total Increase in Retail Generation Revenues | $ | 60 |
The increase in generation sales was primarily due to higher weather-related usage in the first three months of 2008 compared to the same period of 2007 and reduced customer shopping. Heating degree days in OE’s, CEI’s and TE’s service territories increased by 2.8%, 1.7% and 3.3%, respectively. Average prices increased primarily due to an increase in the Ohio Companies’ fuel cost recovery rider that became effective in January 2008. The percentage of generation services provided by alternative suppliers to total sales delivered by the Ohio Companies in their service areas decreased by 1.8 percentage points from the same period in 2007.
Increased transmission revenue resulted from higher sales volumes ($7 million) and a PUCO-approved transmission tariff increase ($15 million) that became effective July 1, 2007.
Expenses -
Purchased power costs were $44 million higher due primarily to higher unit costs for power purchased from FES. The factors contributing to the higher costs are summarized in the following table:
Source of Change in Purchased Power | Increase (Decrease) | |||
(In millions) | ||||
Purchases from non-affiliates: | ||||
Change due to increased unit costs | $ | (5 | ) | |
Change due to decreased volumes | (1 | ) | ||
(6 | ) | |||
Purchases from FES: | ||||
Change due to increased unit costs | 44 | |||
Change due to increased volumes | 6 | |||
50 | ||||
Net Increase in Purchased Power Costs | $ | 44 |
The increase in purchase volumes from FES was due to the higher retail generation sales requirements described above. The higher unit costs reflect the increases in the Ohio Companies’ retail generation rates, as provided for under the PSA with FES.
Other operating expenses increased $28 million due in part to MISO transmission-related expenses ($12 million). The difference between transmission revenues accrued and transmission expenses incurred is deferred, resulting in no material impact to current period earnings. The remainder of the increase resulted from lower associated company cost reimbursements related to the Ohio Companies’ generation leasehold interests.
Other – First Quarter 2008 Compared with First Quarter 2007
FirstEnergy’s financial results from other operating segments and reconciling items, including interest expense on holding company debt and corporate support services revenues and expenses, resulted in a $37 million increase in FirstEnergy’s net income in the first three months of 2008 compared to the same period in 2007. The increase resulted from the sale of telecommunication assets ($19 million, net of taxes), reduced short-term disability costs ($8 million) and reduced interest expense ($11 million) associated with FirstEnergy’s revolving credit facility.
CAPITAL RESOURCES AND LIQUIDITY
FirstEnergy’s business is capital intensive, requiring significant resources to fund operating expenses, construction expenditures, scheduled debt maturities and interest and dividend payments. In 2008 and in subsequent years, FirstEnergy expects to satisfy these requirements with a combination of cash from operations and funds from the capital markets. FirstEnergy also expects that borrowing capacity under credit facilities will continue to be available to manage working capital requirements during those periods.
10
As of March 31, 2008, FirstEnergy’s net deficit in working capital (current assets less current liabilities) was principally due to the initial short-term funding of the repurchase of certain auction rate bonds described below and the classification of certain variable interest rate PCRBs as currently payable long-term debt. The PCRBs currently permit individual debt holders to put the respective debt back to the issuer for purchase prior to maturity.
Changes in Cash Position
FirstEnergy's primary source of cash required for continuing operations as a holding company is cash from the operations of its subsidiaries. FirstEnergy and certain of its subsidiaries also have access to $2.75 billion of short-term financing under a revolving credit facility which expires in 2012. Under the terms of the facility, FirstEnergy is permitted to have up to $1.5 billion in outstanding borrowings at any time, subject to the facility cap of $2.75 billion of aggregate outstanding borrowings by it and its subsidiaries that are also parties to such facility. In the first three months of 2008, FirstEnergy received $88 million of cash dividends from its subsidiaries and paid $168 million in cash dividends to common shareholders. With the exception of Met-Ed, which is currently in an accumulated deficit position, there are no material restrictions on the payment of cash dividends by the subsidiaries of FirstEnergy.
As of March 31, 2008, FirstEnergy had $70 million of cash and cash equivalents compared with $129 million as of December 31, 2007. The major sources of changes in these balances are summarized below.
Cash Flows From Operating Activities
FirstEnergy's consolidated net cash from operating activities is provided primarily by its energy delivery services and competitive energy services businesses (see Results of Operations above). Net cash provided from operating activities was $356 million in the first three months of 2008 compared to $57 million used for operating activities in the first three months of 2007, as summarized in the following table:
Three Months Ended | |||||||
March 31, | |||||||
Operating Cash Flows | 2008 | 2007 | |||||
(In millions) | |||||||
Net income | $ | 276 | $ | 290 | |||
Non-cash charges | 203 | 125 | |||||
Pension trust contribution | - | (300 | ) | ||||
Working capital and other | (123 | ) | (172 | ) | |||
$ | 356 | $ | (57 | ) |
Net cash provided from operating activities increased by $413 million in the first three months of 2008 compared to the first three months of 2007 primarily due to the absence of a $300 million pension trust contribution in 2007, a $78 million increase in non-cash charges and a $49 million increase from working capital and other changes, partially offset by a $14 million decrease in net income (see Results of Operations above). The increase in non-cash charges is primarily due to lower deferrals of new regulatory assets and deferred purchased power costs. The deferral of new regulatory assets decreased primarily as a result of the absence of the deferral of decommissioning costs related to the Saxton nuclear research facility in the first quarter of 2007. Deferred purchased power costs decreased as a result of lower deferred NUG costs. The changes in working capital and other primarily resulted from a $149 million change in the collection of receivables and an $85 million change in the settlement of accounts payable, partially offset by increased tax payments compared to the first three months of 2007.
Cash Flows From Financing Activities
In the first three months of 2008, cash provided from financing activities was $227 million compared to $346 million in the first three months of 2007. The decrease was primarily due to lower short-term borrowings and debt issuances in the first quarter of 2008, partially offset by redemption of common stock in the first quarter of 2007. The following table summarizes security issuances and redemptions.
11
Three Months Ended | |||||||
March 31, | |||||||
Securities Issued or Redeemed | 2008 | 2007 | |||||
(In millions) | |||||||
New issues | |||||||
Unsecured notes | $ | - | $ | 250 | |||
Redemptions | |||||||
Pollution control notes(1) | $ | 362 | $ | - | |||
Senior secured notes | 6 | 13 | |||||
Common stock | - | 891 | |||||
$ | 368 | $ | 904 | ||||
Short-term borrowings, net | $ | 746 | $ | 1,139 | |||
(1) Includes the repurchase of certain auction rate PCRBs described below, which were extinguished from FirstEnergy’s consolidated balance sheet. |
FirstEnergy had approximately $1.6 billion of short-term indebtedness as of March 31, 2008 compared to approximately $903 million as of December 31, 2007. Available bank borrowing capability as of March 31, 2008 included the following:
Borrowing Capability (In millions) | ||||
Short-term credit facilities(1) | $ | 2,870 | ||
Accounts receivable financing facilities | 550 | |||
Utilized | (1,646 | ) | ||
LOCs | (60 | ) | ||
Net available capability | $ | 1,714 | ||
(1) Includes the $2.75 billion revolving credit facility described below, a $100 million revolving credit facility that expires in December 2009 and a $20 million uncommitted line of credit. |
As of March 31, 2008, the Ohio Companies and Penn had the aggregate capability to issue approximately $3.4 billion of additional FMB on the basis of property additions and retired bonds under the terms of their respective mortgage indentures. The issuance of FMB by OE, CEI and TE is also subject to provisions of their senior note indentures generally limiting the incurrence of additional secured debt, subject to certain exceptions that would permit, among other things, the issuance of secured debt (including FMB) (i) supporting pollution control notes or similar obligations, or (ii) as an extension, renewal or replacement of previously outstanding secured debt. In addition, these provisions would permit OE, CEI and TE to incur additional secured debt not otherwise permitted by a specified exception of up to $573 million, $449 million and $121 million, respectively, as of March 31, 2008.
The applicable earnings coverage tests in the respective charters of OE, TE, Penn and JCP&L are currently inoperative. In the event that any of them issues preferred stock in the future, the applicable earnings coverage test will govern the amount of preferred stock that may be issued. CEI, Met-Ed and Penelec do not have similar restrictions and could issue up to the number of preferred shares authorized under their respective charters.
As of March 31, 2008, FirstEnergy had approximately $1.0 billion of remaining unused capacity under an existing shelf registration statement filed with the SEC in 2003 to support future securities issuances. The shelf registration expires in December 2008 and provides the flexibility to issue and sell various types of securities, including common stock, debt securities, and share purchase contracts and related share purchase units. As of March 31, 2008, OE had approximately $400 million of remaining unused capacity under a shelf registration for unsecured debt securities filed with the SEC in 2006 that expires in April 2009.
FirstEnergy and certain of its subsidiaries are party to a $2.75 billion five-year revolving credit facility (included in the borrowing capability table above). FirstEnergy has the capability to request an increase in the total commitments available under this facility up to a maximum of $3.25 billion. Commitments under the facility are available until August 24, 2012, unless the lenders agree, at the request of the borrowers, to an unlimited number of additional one-year extensions. Generally, borrowings under the facility must be repaid within 364 days. Available amounts for each borrower are subject to a specified sub-limit, as well as applicable regulatory and other limitations.
12
The following table summarizes the borrowing sub-limits for each borrower under the facility, as well as the limitations on short-term indebtedness applicable to each borrower under current regulatory approvals and applicable statutory and/or charter limitations:
Revolving | Regulatory and | ||||||
Credit Facility | Other Short-Term | ||||||
Borrower | Sub-Limit | Debt Limitations(1) | |||||
(In millions) | |||||||
FirstEnergy | $ | 2,750 | $ | - | (2) | ||
OE | 500 | 500 | |||||
Penn | 50 | 39 | (3) | ||||
CEI | 250 | (4) | 500 | ||||
TE | 250 | (4) | 500 | ||||
JCP&L | 425 | 428 | (3) | ||||
Met-Ed | 250 | 300 | (3) | ||||
Penelec | 250 | 300 | (3) | ||||
FES | 1,000 | - | (2) | ||||
ATSI | - | (5) | 50 | ||||
(1)As of March 31, 2008. (2)No regulatory approvals, statutory or charter limitations applicable. (3)Excluding amounts which may be borrowed under the regulated companies’ money pool. (4)Borrowing sub-limits for CEI and TE may be increased to up to $500 million by delivering notice to the administrative agent that such borrower has senior unsecured debt ratings of at least BBB by S&P and Baa2 by Moody’s. (5)The borrowing sub-limit for ATSI may be increased up to $100 million by delivering notice to the administrative agent that either (i) ATSI has senior unsecured debt ratings of at least BBB- by S&P and Baa3 by Moody’s or (ii) FirstEnergy has guaranteed ATSI’s obligations of such borrower under the facility. |
The revolving credit facility, combined with an aggregate $550 million (unused as of March 31, 2008) of accounts receivable financing facilities for OE, CEI, TE, Met-Ed, Penelec and Penn, are intended to provide liquidity to meet working capital requirements and for other general corporate purposes for FirstEnergy and its subsidiaries.
Under the revolving credit facility, borrowers may request the issuance of LOCs expiring up to one year from the date of issuance. The stated amount of outstanding LOCs will count against total commitments available under the facility and against the applicable borrower’s borrowing sub-limit.
The revolving credit facility contains financial covenants requiring each borrower to maintain a consolidated debt to total capitalization ratio of no more than 65%, measured at the end of each fiscal quarter. As of March 31, 2008, FirstEnergy’s and its subsidiaries' debt to total capitalization ratios (as defined under the revolving credit facility) were as follows:
Borrower | |||
FirstEnergy | 58 | % | |
OE | 43 | % | |
Penn | 25 | % | |
CEI | 57 | % | |
TE | 42 | % | |
JCP&L | 30 | % | |
Met-Ed | 47 | % | |
Penelec | 49 | % | |
FES | 61 | % |
The revolving credit facility does not contain provisions that either restrict the ability to borrow or accelerate repayment of outstanding advances as a result of any change in credit ratings. Pricing is defined in “pricing grids”, whereby the cost of funds borrowed under the facility is related to the credit ratings of the company borrowing the funds.
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FirstEnergy's regulated companies also have the ability to borrow from each other and the holding company to meet their short-term working capital requirements. A similar but separate arrangement exists among FirstEnergy's unregulated companies. FESC administers these two money pools and tracks surplus funds of FirstEnergy and the respective regulated and unregulated subsidiaries, as well as proceeds available from bank borrowings. Companies receiving a loan under the money pool agreements must repay the principal amount of the loan, together with accrued interest, within 364 days of borrowing the funds. The rate of interest is the same for each company receiving a loan from their respective pool and is based on the average cost of funds available through the pool. The average interest rate for borrowings in the first three months of 2008 was 3.62% for the regulated companies’ money pool and 3.55% for the unregulated companies��� money pool.
FirstEnergy’s access to capital markets and costs of financing are influenced by the ratings of its securities. The following table displays FirstEnergy’s, FES’ and the Companies’ securities ratings as of March 31, 2008. S&P’s outlook of FirstEnergy and its subsidiaries remains negative and Moody’s outlook for FirstEnergy and its subsidiaries remains stable.
Issuer | Securities | S&P | Moody’s | |||
FirstEnergy | Senior unsecured | BBB- | Baa3 | |||
FES | Senior unsecured | BBB | Baa2 | |||
OE | Senior unsecured | BBB- | Baa2 | |||
CEI | Senior secured | BBB+ | Baa2 | |||
Senior unsecured | BBB- | Baa3 | ||||
TE | Senior unsecured | BBB- | Baa3 | |||
Penn | Senior secured | A- | Baa1 | |||
JCP&L | Senior unsecured | BBB | Baa2 | |||
Met-Ed | Senior unsecured | BBB | Baa2 | |||
Penelec | Senior unsecured | BBB | Baa2 |
Between February 27, 2008 and April 2, 2008, FirstEnergy’s subsidiaries repurchased all of their tax-exempt long-term PCRBs originally sold at auction rates ($530 million) in response to disruptions in the auction rate securities market. In February 2008, FGCO, NGC, Met-Ed and Penelec elected to convert all of their then outstanding auction rate PCRBs to a weekly rate mode, which required their mandatory purchase of these PCRBs on the applicable conversion dates. The companies initially funded the repurchase with short-term debt. On April 22, 2008, Met-Ed ($28.5 million) and Penelec ($45 million) successfully marketed their converted PCRBs in a variable-rate mode. Subject to market conditions, FGCO and NGC plan to remarket their converted PCRBs later in 2008, either in fixed-rate or variable-rate modes.
Cash Flows From Investing Activities
Net cash flows used in investing activities resulted principally from property additions. Energy delivery services property additions primarily include expenditures related to transmission and distribution facilities. Capital spending by the competitive energy services segment are principally generation-related. The following table summarizes investing activities for the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007 by business segment:
Summary of Cash Flows | Property | ||||||||||||
Provided from (Used for) Investing Activities | Additions | Investments | Other | Total | |||||||||
Sources (Uses) | (In millions) | ||||||||||||
Three Months Ended March 31, 2008 | |||||||||||||
Energy delivery services | $ | (255 | ) | $ | 33 | $ | 2 | $ | (220 | ) | |||
Competitive energy services | (462 | ) | (3 | ) | (19 | ) | (484 | ) | |||||
Other | (12 | ) | 68 | - | 56 | ||||||||
Inter-Segment reconciling items | 18 | (12 | ) | - | 6 | ||||||||
Total | $ | (711 | ) | $ | 86 | $ | (17 | ) | $ | (642 | ) | ||
Three Months Ended March 31, 2007 | |||||||||||||
Energy delivery services | $ | (155 | ) | $ | 44 | $ | 10 | $ | (101 | ) | |||
Competitive energy services | (124 | ) | (9 | ) | (4 | ) | (137 | ) | |||||
Other | (1 | ) | (16 | ) | (4 | ) | (21 | ) | |||||
Inter-Segment reconciling items | (16 | ) | (15 | ) | - | (31 | ) | ||||||
Total | $ | (296 | ) | $ | 4 | $ | 2 | $ | (290 | ) |
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Net cash used for investing activities in the first quarter of 2008 increased by $352 million compared to the first quarter of 2007. The increase was principally due to a $415 million increase in property additions, which reflects AQC system expenditures and the acquisition of a partially completed natural gas fired generating plant in Fremont, Ohio. Partially offsetting the increase in property additions were cash proceeds from the sale of telecommunication assets.
During the remaining three quarters of 2008, capital requirements for property additions and capital leases are expected to be approximately $1.4 billion. FirstEnergy and the Companies have additional requirements of approximately $328 million for maturing long-term debt during the remainder of 2008. These cash requirements are expected to be satisfied from a combination of internal cash, short-term credit arrangements and funds raised in the capital markets.
FirstEnergy's capital spending for the period 2008-2012 is expected to be approximately $7.6 billion (excluding nuclear fuel), of which approximately $2.0 billion applies to 2008. Investments for additional nuclear fuel during the 2008-2012 period are estimated to be approximately $1.4 billion, of which about $150 million applies to 2008. During the same period, FirstEnergy's nuclear fuel investments are expected to be reduced by approximately $949 million and $111 million, respectively, as the nuclear fuel is consumed.
GUARANTEES AND OTHER ASSURANCES
As part of normal business activities, FirstEnergy enters into various agreements on behalf of its subsidiaries to provide financial or performance assurances to third parties. These agreements include contract guarantees, surety bonds and LOCs. Some of the guaranteed contracts contain collateral provisions that are contingent upon FirstEnergy’s credit ratings.
As of March 31, 2008, FirstEnergy’s maximum exposure to potential future payments under outstanding guarantees and other assurances approximated $4.4 billion, as summarized below:
Maximum | ||||
Guarantees and Other Assurances | Exposure | |||
(In millions) | ||||
FirstEnergy Guarantees of Subsidiaries | ||||
Energy and Energy-Related Contracts (1) | $ | 441 | ||
LOC (long-term debt) – interest coverage (2) | 6 | |||
Other (3) | 503 | |||
950 | ||||
Subsidiaries’ Guarantees | ||||
Energy and Energy-Related Contracts | 86 | |||
LOC (long-term debt) – interest coverage (2) | 6 | |||
Other (4) | 2,641 | |||
2,733 | ||||
Surety Bonds | 66 | |||
LOC (long-term debt) – interest coverage (2) | 5 | |||
LOC (non-debt) (5)(6) | 679 | |||
750 | ||||
Total Guarantees and Other Assurances | $ | 4,433 |
(1) | Issued for open-ended terms, with a 10-day termination right by FirstEnergy. |
(2) | Reflects the interest coverage portion of LOCs issued in support of floating-rate pollution control revenue bonds with various maturities. The principal amount of floating-rate pollution control revenue bonds of $1.6 billion is reflected in debt on FirstEnergy’s consolidated balance sheets. |
(3) | Includes guarantees of $300 million for OVEC obligations and $80 million for nuclear decommissioning funding assurances. |
(4) | Includes FES’ guarantee of FGCO’s obligations under the sale and leaseback of Bruce Mansfield Unit 1. |
(5) | Includes $60 million issued for various terms pursuant to LOC capacity available under FirstEnergy’s revolving credit facility. |
(6) | Includes approximately $194 million pledged in connection with the sale and leaseback of Beaver Valley Unit 2 by CEI and TE, $291 million pledged in connection with the sale a nd leaseback of Beaver Valley Unit 2 by OE and $134 million pledged in connection with the sale and leaseback of Perry Unit 1 by OE. |
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FirstEnergy guarantees energy and energy-related payments of its subsidiaries involved in energy commodity activities principally to facilitate normal physical transactions involving electricity, gas, emission allowances and coal. FirstEnergy also provides guarantees to various providers of credit support for the financing or refinancing by subsidiaries of costs related to the acquisition of property, plant and equipment. These agreements legally obligate FirstEnergy to fulfill the obligations of those subsidiaries directly involved in energy and energy-related transactions or financings where the law might otherwise limit the counterparties' claims. If demands of a counterparty were to exceed the ability of a subsidiary to satisfy existing obligations, FirstEnergy’s guarantee enables the counterparty's legal claim to be satisfied by other FirstEnergy assets. The likelihood is remote that such parental guarantees will increase amounts otherwise paid by FirstEnergy to meet its obligations incurred in connection with ongoing energy and energy-related activities.
While these types of guarantees are normally parental commitments for the future payment of subsidiary obligations, subsequent to the occurrence of a credit rating downgrade or “material adverse event”, the immediate posting of cash collateral or provision of an LOC may be required of the subsidiary. As of March 31, 2008, FirstEnergy’s maximum exposure under these collateral provisions was $440 million.
Most of FirstEnergy’s surety bonds are backed by various indemnities common within the insurance industry. Surety bonds and related guarantees provide additional assurance to outside parties that contractual and statutory obligations will be met in a number of areas including construction contracts, environmental commitments and various retail transactions.
FirstEnergy has guaranteed the obligations of the operators of the TEBSA project up to a maximum of $2 million (subject to escalation) under the project's operations and maintenance agreement. In connection with the sale of TEBSA in January 2004, the purchaser indemnified FirstEnergy against any loss under this guarantee. FirstEnergy has also provided an LOC ($19 million as of March 31, 2008), which is renewable and declines yearly based upon the senior outstanding debt of TEBSA.
OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS
FES and the Ohio Companies have obligations that are not included on FirstEnergy’s Consolidated Balance Sheets related to sale and leaseback arrangements involving Perry Unit 1, Beaver Valley Unit 2 and the Bruce Mansfield Plant, which are satisfied through operating lease payments. As of March 31, 2008, the present value of these sale and leaseback operating lease commitments, net of trust investments, totaled $2.4 billion.
FirstEnergy has equity ownership interests in certain businesses that are accounted for using the equity method of accounting for investments. There are no undisclosed material contingencies related to these investments. Certain guarantees that FirstEnergy does not expect to have a material current or future effect on its financial condition, liquidity or results of operations are disclosed under “Guarantees and Other Assurances” above.
MARKET RISK INFORMATION
FirstEnergy uses various market risk sensitive instruments, including derivative contracts, primarily to manage the risk of price and interest rate fluctuations. FirstEnergy's Risk Policy Committee, comprised of members of senior management, provides general oversight for risk management activities throughout the company.
Commodity Price Risk
FirstEnergy is exposed to financial and market risks resulting from the fluctuation of interest rates and commodity prices -- electricity, energy transmission, natural gas, coal, nuclear fuel and emission allowances. To manage the volatility relating to these exposures, FirstEnergy uses a variety of non-derivative and derivative instruments, including forward contracts, options, futures contracts and swaps. The derivatives are used principally for hedging purposes. Derivatives that fall within the scope of SFAS 133 must be recorded at their fair value and marked to market. The majority of FirstEnergy’s derivative hedging contracts qualify for the normal purchase and normal sale exception under SFAS 133 and are therefore excluded from the tables below. Contracts that are not exempt from such treatment include certain power purchase agreements with NUG entities that were structured pursuant to the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978. These non-trading contracts are adjusted to fair value at the end of each quarter, with a corresponding regulatory asset recognized for above-market costs. The change in the fair value of commodity derivative contracts related to energy production during the first quarter of 2008 is summarized in the following table:
16
Increase (Decrease) in the Fair Value | ||||||||||
of Commodity Derivative Contracts | Non-Hedge | Hedge | Total | |||||||
(In millions) | ||||||||||
Change in the Fair Value of | ||||||||||
Commodity Derivative Contracts: | ||||||||||
Outstanding net liability as of January 1, 2008 | $ | (713 | ) | $ | (26 | ) | $ | (739 | ) | |
Additions/change in value of existing contracts | - | (11 | ) | (11 | ) | |||||
Settled contracts | 58 | 17 | 75 | |||||||
Outstanding net liability as of March 31, 2008 (1) | $ | (655 | ) | $ | (20 | ) | $ | (675 | ) | |
Non-commodity Net Liabilities as of March 31, 2008: | ||||||||||
Interest rate swaps (2) | - | (3 | ) | (3 | ) | |||||
Net Liabilities - Derivative Contracts as of March 31, 2008 | $ | (655 | ) | $ | (23 | ) | $ | (678 | ) | |
Impact of Changes in Commodity Derivative Contracts(3) | ||||||||||
Income Statement effects (pre-tax) | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | ||||
Balance Sheet effects: | ||||||||||
Other comprehensive income (pre-tax) | $ | - | $ | 6 | $ | 6 | ||||
Regulatory assets (net) | $ | (58 | ) | $ | - | $ | (58 | ) |
(1) | Includes $655 million in non-hedge commodity derivative contracts (primarily with NUGs), which are offset by a regulatory asset. |
(2) | Interest rate swaps are treated as cash flow or fair value hedges (see Interest Rate Swap Agreements below). |
(3) | Represents the change in value of existing contracts, settled contracts and changes in techniques/assumptions. |
Derivatives are included on the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of March 31, 2008 as follows: |
Balance Sheet Classification | Non-Hedge | Hedge | Total | |||||||
(In millions) | ||||||||||
Current- | ||||||||||
Other assets | $ | - | $ | 62 | $ | 62 | ||||
Other liabilities | - | (77 | ) | (77 | ) | |||||
Non-Current- | ||||||||||
Other deferred charges | 28 | 12 | 40 | |||||||
Other non-current liabilities | (683 | ) | (20 | ) | (703 | ) | ||||
Net liabilities | $ | (655 | ) | $ | (23 | ) | $ | (678 | ) |
The valuation of derivative contracts is based on observable market information to the extent that such information is available. In cases where such information is not available, FirstEnergy relies on model-based information. The model provides estimates of future regional prices for electricity and an estimate of related price volatility. FirstEnergy uses these results to develop estimates of fair value for financial reporting purposes and for internal management decision making (see Note 4). Sources of information for the valuation of commodity derivative contracts as of March 31, 2008 are summarized by year in the following table:
Source of Information | ||||||||||||||||||||||
- Fair Value by Contract Year | 2008(1) | 2009 | 2010 | 2011 | 2012 | Thereafter | Total | |||||||||||||||
(In millions) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Prices actively quoted(2) | $ | 3 | $ | 1 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 4 | ||||||||
Other external sources(3) | (164 | ) | (192 | ) | (149 | ) | (92 | ) | - | - | (597 | ) | ||||||||||
Prices based on models | - | - | - | - | (30 | ) | (52 | ) | (82 | ) | ||||||||||||
Total(4) | $ | (161 | ) | $ | (191 | ) | $ | (149 | ) | $ | (92 | ) | $ | (30 | ) | $ | (52 | ) | $ | (675 | ) |
(1) For the last three quarters of 2008.
(2) Represents exchange traded NYMEX futures and options.
(3) Primarily represents contracts based on broker and ICE quotes.
(4) | Includes $655 million in non-hedge commodity derivative contracts (primarily with NUGs), which are offset by a regulatory asset. |
FirstEnergy performs sensitivity analyses to estimate its exposure to the market risk of its commodity positions. A hypothetical 10% adverse shift (an increase or decrease depending on the derivative position) in quoted market prices in the near term on its derivative instruments would not have had a material effect on its consolidated financial position (assets, liabilities and equity) or cash flows as of March 31, 2008. Based on derivative contracts held as of March 31, 2008, an adverse 10% change in commodity prices would decrease net income by approximately $3 million during the next 12 months.
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Interest Rate Swap Agreements - Fair Value Hedges
FirstEnergy utilizes fixed-for-floating interest rate swap agreements as part of its ongoing effort to manage the interest rate risk associated with its debt portfolio. These derivatives are treated as fair value hedges of fixed-rate, long-term debt issues – protecting against the risk of changes in the fair value of fixed-rate debt instruments due to lower interest rates. Swap maturities, call options, fixed interest rates and interest payment dates match those of the underlying obligations. As of March 31, 2008, the debt underlying the $250 million outstanding notional amount of interest rate swaps had a weighted average fixed interest rate of 4.87%, which the swaps have converted to a current weighted average variable rate of 3.49%.
March 31, 2008 | December 31, 2007 | ||||||||||||||||||
Notional | Maturity | Fair | Notional | Maturity | Fair | ||||||||||||||
Interest Rate Swaps | Amount | Date | Value | Amount | Date | Value | |||||||||||||
(In millions) | |||||||||||||||||||
Fair value hedges | $ | 100 | 2008 | $ | 1 | $ | 100 | 2008 | $ | - | |||||||||
150 | 2015 | 4 | 150 | 2015 | (3 | ) | |||||||||||||
$ | 250 | $ | 5 | $ | 250 | $ | (3 | ) |
Forward Starting Swap Agreements - Cash Flow Hedges
FirstEnergy utilizes forward starting swap agreements (forward swaps) in order to hedge a portion of the consolidated interest rate risk associated with anticipated future issuances of fixed-rate, long-term debt securities for one or more of its consolidated subsidiaries in 2008 and 2009, and anticipated variable-rate, short-term debt. These derivatives are treated as cash flow hedges, protecting against the risk of changes in future interest payments resulting from changes in benchmark U.S. Treasury and LIBOR rates between the date of hedge inception and the date of the debt issuance. During the first three months of 2008, FirstEnergy entered into forward swaps with an aggregate notional value of $500 million and terminated forward swaps with an aggregate notional value of $300 million. FirstEnergy paid $18 million in cash related to the terminations, $1 million of which was deemed ineffective and recognized in current period earnings. The remaining effective portion ($17 million) will be recognized over the terms of the associated future debt. As of March 31, 2008, FirstEnergy had outstanding forward swaps with an aggregate notional amount of $600 million and an aggregate fair value of $(8) million.
March 31, 2008 | December 31, 2007 | ||||||||||||||||||
Notional | Maturity | Fair | Notional | Maturity | Fair | ||||||||||||||
Forward Starting Swaps | Amount | Date | Value | Amount | Date | Value | |||||||||||||
(In millions) | |||||||||||||||||||
Cash flow hedges | $ | 100 | 2009 | $ | (2 | ) | $ | - | 2009 | $ | - | ||||||||
100 | 2010 | (1 | ) | - | 2010 | - | |||||||||||||
25 | 2015 | (2 | ) | 25 | 2015 | (1 | ) | ||||||||||||
325 | 2018 | - | 325 | 2018 | (1 | ) | |||||||||||||
50 | 2020 | (3 | ) | 50 | 2020 | (1 | ) | ||||||||||||
$ | 600 | $ | (8 | ) | $ | 400 | $ | (3 | ) |
Equity Price Risk
Included in nuclear decommissioning trusts are marketable equity securities carried at their fair value (market value) of approximately $1.2 billion and $1.4 billion, as of March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively. A hypothetical 10% decrease in prices quoted by stock exchanges would result in a $120 million reduction in fair value as of March 31, 2008.
CREDIT RISK
Credit risk is the risk of an obligor's failure to meet the terms of any investment contract, loan agreement or otherwise perform as agreed. Credit risk arises from all activities in which success depends on issuer, borrower or counterparty performance, whether reflected on or off the balance sheet. FirstEnergy engages in transactions for the purchase and sale of commodities including gas, electricity, coal and emission allowances. These transactions are often with major energy companies within the industry.
FirstEnergy maintains credit policies with respect to its counterparties to manage overall credit risk. This includes performing independent risk evaluations, actively monitoring portfolio trends and using collateral and contract provisions to mitigate exposure. As part of its credit program, FirstEnergy aggressively manages the quality of its portfolio of energy contracts, evidenced by a current weighted average risk rating for energy contract counterparties of BBB+ (S&P). As of March 31, 2008, the largest credit concentration was with one party, currently rated investment grade that represented 11% of FirstEnergy’s total approved credit risk. Within FirstEnergy’s unregulated energy subsidiaries, 99% of credit exposures, net of collateral and reserve, were with investment grade counterparties as of March 31, 2008.
18
OUTLOOK
State Regulatory Matters
In Ohio, New Jersey and Pennsylvania, laws applicable to electric industry restructuring contain similar provisions that are reflected in the Companies' respective state regulatory plans. These provisions include:
· | restructuring the electric generation business and allowing the Companies' customers to select a competitive electric generation supplier other than the Companies; |
· | establishing or defining the PLR obligations to customers in the Companies' service areas; |
· | providing the Companies with the opportunity to recover potentially stranded investment (or transition costs) not otherwise recoverable in a competitive generation market; |
· | itemizing (unbundling) the price of electricity into its component elements – including generation, transmission, distribution and stranded costs recovery charges; |
· | continuing regulation of the Companies' transmission and distribution systems; and |
· | requiring corporate separation of regulated and unregulated business activities. |
The Companies and ATSI recognize, as regulatory assets, costs which the FERC, the PUCO, the PPUC and the NJBPU have authorized for recovery from customers in future periods or for which authorization is probable. Without the probability of such authorization, costs currently recorded as regulatory assets would have been charged to income as incurred. Regulatory assets that do not earn a current return totaled approximately $137 million as of March 31, 2008 (JCP&L - $78 million and Met-Ed - $59 million). Regulatory assets not earning a current return (primarily for certain regulatory transition costs and employee postretirement benefits) are expected to be recovered by 2014 for JCP&L and by 2020 for Met-Ed. The following table discloses regulatory assets by company:
March 31, | December 31, | Increase | ||||||||
Regulatory Assets* | 2008 | 2007 | (Decrease) | |||||||
(In millions) | ||||||||||
OE | $ | 710 | $ | 737 | $ | (27 | ) | |||
CEI | 854 | 871 | (17 | ) | ||||||
TE | 188 | 204 | (16 | ) | ||||||
JCP&L | 1,476 | 1,596 | (120 | ) | ||||||
Met-Ed | 530 | 495 | 35 | |||||||
ATSI | 39 | 42 | (3 | ) | ||||||
Total | $ | 3,797 | $ | 3,945 | $ | (148 | ) |
* | Penelec had net regulatory liabilities of approximately $67 million and $74 million as of March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively. These net regulatory liabilities are included in Other Non-current Liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. |
Regulatory assets by source are as follows:
March 31, | December 31, | Increase | ||||||||
Regulatory Assets By Source | 2008 | 2007 | (Decrease) | |||||||
(In millions) | ||||||||||
Regulatory transition costs | $ | 2,156 | $ | 2,363 | $ | (207 | ) | |||
Customer shopping incentives | 495 | 516 | (21 | ) | ||||||
Customer receivables for future income taxes | 290 | 295 | (5 | ) | ||||||
Loss on reacquired debt | 56 | 57 | (1 | ) | ||||||
Employee postretirement benefits | 37 | 39 | (2 | ) | ||||||
Nuclear decommissioning, decontamination | ||||||||||
and spent fuel disposal costs | (95 | ) | (115 | ) | 20 | |||||
Asset removal costs | (195 | ) | (183 | ) | (12 | ) | ||||
MISO/PJM transmission costs | 368 | 340 | 28 | |||||||
Fuel costs - RCP | 227 | 220 | 7 | |||||||
Distribution costs - RCP | 361 | 321 | 40 | |||||||
Other | 97 | 92 | 5 | |||||||
Total | $ | 3,797 | $ | 3,945 | $ | (148 | ) |
19
Reliability Initiatives
In late 2003 and early 2004, a series of letters, reports and recommendations were issued from various entities, including governmental, industry and ad hoc reliability entities (PUCO, FERC, NERC and the U.S. – Canada Power System Outage Task Force) regarding enhancements to regional reliability. The proposed enhancements were divided into two groups: enhancements that were to be completed in 2004; and enhancements that were to be completed after 2004. In 2004, FirstEnergy completed all of the enhancements that were recommended for completion in 2004. FirstEnergy is also proceeding with the implementation of the recommendations that were to be completed subsequent to 2004 and will continue to periodically assess the FERC-ordered Reliability Study recommendations for forecasted 2009 system conditions, recognizing revised load forecasts and other changing system conditions which may impact the recommendations. Thus far, implementation of the recommendations has not required, nor is expected to require, substantial investment in new or material upgrades to existing equipment. The FERC or other applicable government agencies and reliability coordinators may, however, take a different view as to recommended enhancements or may recommend additional enhancements in the future that could require additional material expenditures.
As a result of outages experienced in JCP&L’s service area in 2002 and 2003, the NJBPU performed a review of JCP&L’s service reliability. On June 9, 2004, the NJBPU approved a stipulation that addresses a third-party consultant’s recommendations on appropriate courses of action necessary to ensure system-wide reliability. The stipulation incorporates the consultant’s focused audit of, and recommendations regarding, JCP&L’s Planning and Operations and Maintenance programs and practices. On June 1, 2005, the consultant completed his work and issued his final report to the NJBPU. On July 14, 2006, JCP&L filed a comprehensive response to the consultant’s report with the NJBPU. JCP&L will complete the remaining substantive work described in the stipulation in 2008. JCP&L continues to file compliance reports with the NJBPU reflecting JCP&L’s activities associated with implementing the stipulation.
In 2005, Congress amended the Federal Power Act to provide for federally-enforceable mandatory reliability standards. The mandatory reliability standards apply to the bulk power system and impose certain operating, record-keeping and reporting requirements on the Companies and ATSI. The NERC is charged with establishing and enforcing these reliability standards, although it has delegated day-to-day implementation and enforcement of its responsibilities to eight regional entities, including the ReliabilityFirst Corporation. All of FirstEnergy’s facilities are located within the ReliabilityFirst region. FirstEnergy actively participates in the NERC and ReliabilityFirst stakeholder processes, and otherwise monitors and manages its companies in response to the ongoing development, implementation and enforcement of the reliability standards.
FirstEnergy believes that it is in compliance with all currently-effective and enforceable reliability standards. Nevertheless, it is clear that NERC, ReliabilityFirst and the FERC will continue to refine existing reliability standards as well as to develop and adopt new reliability standards. The financial impact of complying with new or amended standards cannot be determined at this time. However, the 2005 amendments to the Federal Power Act provide that all prudent costs incurred to comply with the new reliability standards be recovered in rates. Still, any future inability on FirstEnergy’s part to comply with the reliability standards for its bulk power system could have a material adverse effect on its financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
In April 2007, ReliabilityFirst performed a routine compliance audit of FirstEnergy’s bulk-power system within the Midwest ISO region and found it to be in full compliance with all audited reliability standards. Similarly, ReliabilityFirst has scheduled a compliance audit of FirstEnergy’s bulk-power system within the PJM region in 2008. FirstEnergy currently does not expect any material adverse financial impact as a result of these audits.
Ohio
On January 4, 2006, the PUCO issued an order authorizing the Ohio Companies to recover certain increased fuel costs through a fuel rider and to defer certain other increased fuel costs to be incurred from January 1, 2006 through December 31, 2008, including interest on the deferred balances. The order also provided for recovery of the deferred costs over a twenty-five-year period through distribution rates. On August 29, 2007, the Supreme Court of Ohio concluded that the PUCO violated a provision of the Ohio Revised Code by permitting the Ohio Companies “to collect deferred increased fuel costs through future distribution rate cases, or to alternatively use excess fuel-cost recovery to reduce deferred distribution-related expenses” and remanded the matter to the PUCO for further consideration. On September 10, 2007, the Ohio Companies filed an application with the PUCO that requested the implementation of two generation-related fuel cost riders to collect the increased fuel costs that were previously authorized to be deferred. On January 9, 2008, the PUCO approved the Ohio Companies’ proposed fuel cost rider to recover increased fuel costs to be incurred in 2008 commencing January 1, 2008 through December 31, 2008, which is expected to be approximately $189 million. In addition, the PUCO ordered the Ohio Companies to file a separate application for an alternate recovery mechanism to collect the 2006 and 2007 deferred fuel costs. On February 8, 2008, the Ohio Companies filed an application proposing to recover $226 million of deferred fuel costs and carrying charges for 2006 and 2007 pursuant to a separate fuel rider, with alternative options for the recovery period ranging from five to twenty-five years. This second application is currently pending before the PUCO and a hearing has been set for July 15, 2008.
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The Ohio Companies filed an application and rate request for an increase in electric distribution rates with the PUCO on June 7, 2007. The requested increase is expected to be more than offset by the elimination or reduction of transition charges at the time the rates go into effect and would result in lowering the overall non-generation portion of the average electric bill for most Ohio customers. The distribution rate increases reflect capital expenditures since the Ohio Companies’ last distribution rate proceedings, increases in operation and maintenance expenses and recovery of regulatory assets that were authorized in prior cases. On August 6, 2007, the Ohio Companies updated their filing supporting a distribution rate increase of $332 million. On December 4, 2007, the PUCO Staff issued its Staff Reports containing the results of their investigation into the distribution rate request. In its reports, the PUCO Staff recommended a distribution rate increase in the range of $161 million to $180 million, with $108 million to $127 million for distribution revenue increases and $53 million for recovery of costs deferred under prior cases. This amount excludes the recovery of deferred fuel costs, whose recovery is now being sought in a separate proceeding before the PUCO, discussed above. On January 3, 2008, the Ohio Companies and intervening parties filed objections to the Staff Reports and on January 10, 2008, the Ohio Companies filed supplemental testimony. Evidentiary hearings began on January 29, 2008 and continued through February 25, 2008. During the evidentiary hearings, the PUCO Staff submitted testimony decreasing their recommended revenue increase to a range of $114 million to $132 million. Additionally, in testimony submitted on February 11, 2008, the PUCO Staff adopted a position regarding interest deferred for RCP-related deferrals, line extension deferrals and transition tax deferrals that, if upheld by the PUCO, would result in the write-off of approximately $45 million of interest costs deferred through March 31, 2008 ($0.09 per share of common stock). The PUCO is expected to render its decision during the second or third quarter of 2008. The new rates would become effective January 1, 2009 for OE and TE, and approximately May 2009 for CEI.
On July 10, 2007, the Ohio Companies filed an application with the PUCO requesting approval of a comprehensive supply plan for providing retail generation service to customers who do not purchase electricity from an alternative supplier, beginning January 1, 2009. The proposed competitive bidding process would average the results of multiple bidding sessions conducted at different times during the year. The final price per KWH would reflect an average of the prices resulting from all bids. In their filing, the Ohio Companies offered two alternatives for structuring the bids, either by customer class or a “slice-of-system” approach. A slice-of-system approach would require the successful bidder to be responsible for supplying a fixed percentage of the utility’s total load notwithstanding the customer’s classification. The proposal provides the PUCO with an option to phase in generation price increases for residential tariff groups who would experience a change in their average total price of 15 percent or more. The PUCO held a technical conference on August 16, 2007 regarding the filing. Initial and reply comments on the proposal were filed by various parties in September and October 2007, respectively. The proposal is currently pending before the PUCO.
On April 22, 2008, an amended version of Substitute SB221 was passed by the Ohio House of Representatives and sent back to the Ohio Senate for concurrence. On April 23, 2008, the Ohio Senate approved the House's amendments to Substitute SB221 and forwarded the bill to the Governor for signature, which he signed on May 1, 2008. Amended Substitute SB221 requires all electric distribution utilities to file an RSP, now called an ESP, with the PUCO. An ESP is required to contain a proposal for the supply and pricing of retail generation and may include proposals, without limitation, related to one or more of the following:
· | automatic recovery of prudently incurred fuel, purchased power, emission allowance costs and federally mandated energy taxes; |
· | construction work in progress for costs of constructing an electric generating facility or environmental expenditure for any electric generating facility; |
· | costs of an electric generating facility; |
· | terms related to customer shopping, bypassability, standby, back-up and default service; |
· | accounting for deferrals related to stabilizing retail electric service; |
· | automatic increases or decreases in standard service offer price; |
· | phase-in and securitization; |
· | transmission service and related costs; |
· | distribution service and related costs; and |
· | economic development and energy efficiency. |
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A utility could also simultaneously file an MRO in which it would have to demonstrate the following objective market criteria: The utility or its transmission service affiliate belongs to a FERC-approved RTO having a market-monitor function and the ability to mitigate market power, and a published source exists that identifies information for traded electricity and energy products that are contracted for delivery two years into the future. The PUCO would test the ESP and its pricing and all other terms and conditions against the MRO and may only approve the ESP if it is found to be more favorable to customers. As part of an ESP with a plan period longer than three years, the PUCO shall prospectively determine every fourth year of the plan whether it is substantially likely the plan will provide the electric distribution utility a return on common equity significantly in excess of the return likely to be earned by publicly traded companies, including utilities, that face comparable business and financial risk (comparable companies). If so, the PUCO may terminate the ESP. Annually under an ESP, the PUCO shall determine whether an electric distribution utility's earned return on common equity is significantly in excess of returns earned on common equity during the same period by comparable companies, and if so, shall require the utility to return such excess to customers by prospective adjustments. Amended Substitute SB221 also includes provisions dealing with advanced and renewable energy standards that contemplate 25% of electrical usage from these sources by 2025. Energy efficiency measures in the bill require energy savings in excess of 22% by 2025. Requirements are in place to meet annual benchmarks for renewable energy resources and energy efficiency, subject to review by the PUCO. FirstEnergy is currently evaluating this legislation and expects to file an ESP in the second or third quarter of 2008.
Pennsylvania
Met-Ed and Penelec purchase a portion of their PLR and default service requirements from FES through a fixed-price partial requirements wholesale power sales agreement. The agreement allows Met-Ed and Penelec to sell the output of NUG energy to the market and requires FES to provide energy at fixed prices to replace any NUG energy sold to the extent needed for Met-Ed and Penelec to satisfy their PLR and default service obligations. The fixed price under the agreement is expected to remain below wholesale market prices during the term of the agreement. If Met-Ed and Penelec were to replace the entire FES supply at current market power prices without corresponding regulatory authorization to increase their generation prices to customers, each company would likely incur a significant increase in operating expenses and experience a material deterioration in credit quality metrics. Under such a scenario, each company's credit profile would no longer be expected to support an investment grade rating for their fixed income securities. Based on the PPUC’s January 11, 2007 order described below, if FES ultimately determines to terminate, reduce, or significantly modify the agreement prior to the expiration of Met-Ed’s and Penelec’s generation rate caps in 2010, timely regulatory relief is not likely to be granted by the PPUC.
Met-Ed and Penelec made a comprehensive transition rate filing with the PPUC on April 10, 2006 to address a number of transmission, distribution and supply issues. If Met-Ed's and Penelec's preferred approach involving accounting deferrals had been approved, annual revenues would have increased by $216 million and $157 million, respectively. That filing included, among other things, a request to charge customers for an increasing amount of market-priced power procured through a CBP as the amount of supply provided under the then existing FES agreement was to be phased out. Met-Ed and Penelec also requested approval of a January 12, 2005 petition for the deferral of transmission-related costs incurred during 2006. In this rate filing, Met-Ed and Penelec requested recovery of annual transmission and related costs incurred on or after January 1, 2007, plus the amortized portion of 2006 costs over a ten-year period, along with applicable carrying charges, through an adjustable rider. Changes in the recovery of NUG expenses and the recovery of Met-Ed's non-NUG stranded costs were also included in the filing. On May 4, 2006, the PPUC consolidated the remand of the FirstEnergy and GPU merger proceeding, related to the quantification and allocation of merger savings, with the comprehensive transition rate filing case.
The PPUC entered its opinion and order in the comprehensive rate filing proceeding on January 11, 2007. The order approved the recovery of transmission costs, including the transmission-related deferral for January 1, 2006 through January 10, 2007, and determined that no merger savings from prior years should be considered in determining customers’ rates. The request for increases in generation supply rates was denied as were the requested changes to NUG expense recovery and Met-Ed’s non-NUG stranded costs. The order decreased Met-Ed’s and Penelec’s distribution rates by $80 million and $19 million, respectively. These decreases were offset by the increases allowed for the recovery of transmission costs. Met-Ed’s and Penelec’s request for recovery of Saxton decommissioning costs was granted and, in January 2007, Met-Ed and Penelec recognized income of $15 million and $12 million, respectively, to establish regulatory assets for those previously expensed decommissioning costs. Overall rates increased by 5.0% for Met-Ed ($59 million) and 4.5% for Penelec ($50 million).
On March 30, 2007, MEIUG and PICA filed a Petition for Review with the Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania asking the court to review the PPUC’s determination on transmission (including congestion) and the transmission deferral. Met-Ed and Penelec filed a Petition for Review on April 13, 2007 on the issues of consolidated tax savings and the requested generation rate increase. The OCA filed its Petition for Review on April 13, 2007, on the issues of transmission (including congestion) and recovery of universal service costs from only the residential rate class. From June through October 2007, initial responsive and reply briefs were filed by various parties. Oral arguments are scheduled to take place in September 2008. If Met-Ed and Penelec do not prevail on the issue of congestion, it could have a material adverse effect on the results of operations of Met-Ed, Penelec and FirstEnergy.
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On April 14, 2008, Met-Ed and Penelec filed annual updates to the TSC rider for the period June 1, 2008, through May 31, 2009. The proposed TSCs include a component for under-recovery of actual transmission costs incurred during the prior period (Met-Ed - $144 million and Penelec - $4 million) and future transmission cost projections for June 2008 through May 2009 (Met-Ed - $258 million and Penelec - $92 million). Met-Ed has proposed a transition approach that would recover past under-recovered costs plus carrying charges through the new TSC over thirty-one months and defer a portion of the projected costs ($92 million) plus carrying charges for recovery through future TSCs by December 31, 2010.
On March 13, 2008, the PPUC approved the residential procurement process in Penn’s Joint Petition for Settlement. This RFP process calls for load-following, full-requirements contracts for default service procurement for residential customers for the period covering June 1, 2008 through May 31, 2011. The PPUC had previously approved the default service procurement processes for commercial and industrial customers. The default service procurement for small commercial customers was conducted through multiple RFPs, while the default service procurement for large commercial and industrial customers will utilize hourly pricing. Bids in the two RFPs for small commercial load were approved by the PPUC on February 22, 2008, and March 20, 2008. On March 28, 2008, Penn filed compliance tariffs with the new default service generation rates based on the approved RFP bids for small commercial customers which the PPUC then certified on April 4, 2008. On April 14, 2008, the first RFP for residential customers’ load was held consisting of tranches for both 12 and 24-month supply. The PPUC approved the bids on April 16, 2008. The second RFP is scheduled to be held on May 14, 2008, after which time the PPUC is expected to approve the new rates to go into effect June 1, 2008.
On February 1, 2007, the Governor of Pennsylvania proposed an EIS. The EIS includes four pieces of proposed legislation that, according to the Governor, is designed to reduce energy costs, promote energy independence and stimulate the economy. Elements of the EIS include the installation of smart meters, funding for solar panels on residences and small businesses, conservation and demand reduction programs to meet energy growth, a requirement that electric distribution companies acquire power that results in the “lowest reasonable rate on a long-term basis,” the utilization of micro-grids and a three year phase-in of rate increases. On July 17, 2007, the Governor signed into law two pieces of energy legislation. The first amended the Alternative Energy Portfolio Standards Act of 2004 to, among other things, increase the percentage of solar energy that must be supplied at the conclusion of an electric distribution company’s transition period. The second law allows electric distribution companies, at their sole discretion, to enter into long term contracts with large customers and to build or acquire interests in electric generation facilities specifically to supply long-term contracts with such customers. A special legislative session on energy was convened in mid-September 2007 to consider other aspects of the EIS. The Pennsylvania House and Senate on March 11, 2008 and December 12, 2007, respectively, passed different versions of bills to fund the Governor’s EIS proposal. Neither chamber has formally considered the other’s bill. On February 12, 2008, the Pennsylvania House passed House Bill 2200 which provides for energy efficiency and demand management programs and targets as well as the installation of smart meters within ten years. Other legislation has been introduced to address generation procurement, expiration of rate caps, conservation and renewable energy. The final form of this pending legislation is uncertain. Consequently, FirstEnergy is unable to predict what impact, if any, such legislation may have on its operations.
New Jersey
JCP&L is permitted to defer for future collection from customers the amounts by which its costs of supplying BGS to non-shopping customers and costs incurred under NUG agreements exceed amounts collected through BGS and NUGC rates and market sales of NUG energy and capacity. As of March 31, 2008, the accumulated deferred cost balance totaled approximately $264 million.
In accordance with an April 28, 2004 NJBPU order, JCP&L filed testimony on June 7, 2004 supporting continuation of the current level and duration of the funding of TMI-2 decommissioning costs by New Jersey customers without a reduction, termination or capping of the funding. On September 30, 2004, JCP&L filed an updated TMI-2 decommissioning study. This study resulted in an updated total decommissioning cost estimate of $729 million (in 2003 dollars) compared to the estimated $528 million (in 2003 dollars) from the prior 1995 decommissioning study. The DRA filed comments on February 28, 2005 requesting that decommissioning funding be suspended. On March 18, 2005, JCP&L filed a response to those comments. JCP&L responded to additional NJBPU staff discovery requests in May and November 2007 and also submitted comments in the proceeding in November 2007. A schedule for further NJBPU proceedings has not yet been set.
On August 1, 2005, the NJBPU established a proceeding to determine whether additional ratepayer protections are required at the state level in light of the repeal of the PUHCA pursuant to the EPACT. The NJBPU approved regulations effective October 2, 2006 that prevent a holding company that owns a gas or electric public utility from investing more than 25% of the combined assets of its utility and utility-related subsidiaries into businesses unrelated to the utility industry. These regulations are not expected to materially impact FirstEnergy or JCP&L. Also, in the same proceeding, the NJBPU Staff issued an additional draft proposal on March 31, 2006 addressing various issues including access to books and records, ring-fencing, cross subsidization, corporate governance and related matters. With the approval of the NJBPU Staff, the affected utilities jointly submitted an alternative proposal on June 1, 2006. The NJBPU Staff circulated revised drafts of the proposal to interested stakeholders in November 2006 and again in February 2007. On February 1, 2008, the NJBPU accepted proposed rules for publication in the New Jersey Register on March 17, 2008. A public hearing on these proposed rules was held on April 23, 2008 with comments from interested parties due on May 16, 2008.
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New Jersey statutes require that the state periodically undertake a planning process, known as the EMP, to address energy related issues including energy security, economic growth, and environmental impact. The EMP is to be developed with involvement of the Governor’s Office and the Governor’s Office of Economic Growth, and is to be prepared by a Master Plan Committee, which is chaired by the NJBPU President and includes representatives of several State departments. In October 2006, the current EMP process was initiated through the creation of a number of working groups to obtain input from a broad range of interested stakeholders including utilities, environmental groups, customer groups, and major customers. In addition, public stakeholder meetings were held in the fall of 2006 and in early 2007.
On April 17, 2008, a draft EMP was released for public comment. The draft EMP establishes four major goals:
· | maximize energy efficiency to achieve a 20% reduction in energy consumption by 2020; |
· | reduce peak demand for electricity by 5,700 MW by 2020 (amounting to about a 22% reduction in projected demand); |
· | meet 22.5% of the state’s electricity needs with renewable energy by 2020; and |
· | develop low carbon emitting, efficient power plants and close the gap between the supply and demand for electricity. |
Following the public comment period which is expected to extend into July 2008, a final EMP will be issued to be followed by appropriate legislation and regulation as necessary. At this time, FirstEnergy cannot predict the outcome of this process nor determine the impact, if any, such legislation or regulation may have on its operations or those of JCP&L.
On February 13, 2007, the NJBPU Staff informally issued a draft proposal relating to changes to the regulations addressing electric distribution service reliability and quality standards. Meetings between the NJBPU Staff and interested stakeholders to discuss the proposal were held and additional, revised informal proposals were subsequently circulated by the Staff. On September 4, 2007, proposed regulations were published in the New Jersey Register, which proposal will be subsequently considered by the NJBPU following comments that were submitted in September and October 2007. Final regulations (effective upon publication) were published in the New Jersey Register March 17, 2008. Upon preliminary review of the new regulations, FirstEnergy does not expect a material impact on its operations or those of JCP&L.
FERC Matters
Transmission Service between MISO and PJM
On November 18, 2004, the FERC issued an order eliminating the through and out rate for transmission service between the MISO and PJM regions. The FERC’s intent was to eliminate so-called “pancaking” of transmission charges between the MISO and PJM regions. The FERC also ordered the MISO, PJM and the transmission owners within MISO and PJM to submit compliance filings containing a rate mechanism to recover lost transmission revenues created by elimination of this charge (referred to as the Seams Elimination Cost Adjustment or “SECA”) during a 16-month transition period. The FERC issued orders in 2005 setting the SECA for hearing. The presiding judge issued an initial decision on August 10, 2006, rejecting the compliance filings made by MISO, PJM, and the transmission owners, and directing new compliance filings. This decision is subject to review and approval by the FERC. Briefs addressing the initial decision were filed on September 11, 2006 and October 20, 2006. A final order could be issued by the FERC in the second quarter of 2008.
PJM Transmission Rate Design
On January 31, 2005, certain PJM transmission owners made filings with the FERC pursuant to a settlement agreement previously approved by the FERC. JCP&L, Met-Ed and Penelec were parties to that proceeding and joined in two of the filings. In the first filing, the settling transmission owners submitted a filing justifying continuation of their existing rate design within the PJM RTO. Hearings were held and numerous parties appeared and litigated various issues concerning PJM rate design; notably AEP, which proposed to create a "postage stamp", or average rate for all high voltage transmission facilities across PJM and a zonal transmission rate for facilities below 345 kV. This proposal would have the effect of shifting recovery of the costs of high voltage transmission lines to other transmission zones, including those where JCP&L, Met-Ed, and Penelec serve load. On April 19, 2007, the FERC issued an order finding that the PJM transmission owners’ existing “license plate” or zonal rate design was just and reasonable and ordered that the current license plate rates for existing transmission facilities be retained. On the issue of rates for new transmission facilities, the FERC directed that costs for new transmission facilities that are rated at 500 kV or higher are to be collected from all transmission zones throughout the PJM footprint by means of a postage-stamp rate. Costs for new transmission facilities that are rated at less than 500 kV, however, are to be allocated on a “beneficiary pays” basis. The FERC found that PJM’s current beneficiary-pays cost allocation methodology is not sufficiently detailed and, in a related order that also was issued on April 19, 2007, directed that hearings be held for the purpose of establishing a just and reasonable cost allocation methodology for inclusion in PJM’s tariff.
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On May 18, 2007, certain parties filed for rehearing of the FERC’s April 19, 2007 order. On January 31, 2008, the requests for rehearing were denied. The FERC’s orders on PJM rate design will prevent the allocation of a portion of the revenue requirement of existing transmission facilities of other utilities to JCP&L, Met-Ed and Penelec. In addition, the FERC’s decision to allocate the cost of new 500 kV and above transmission facilities on a PJM-wide basis will reduce future transmission revenue recovery from the JCP&L, Met-Ed and Penelec zones. A partial settlement agreement addressing the “beneficiary pays” methodology for below 500 kV facilities, but excluding the issue of allocating new facilities costs to merchant transmission entities, was filed on September 14, 2007. The agreement was supported by the FERC’s Trial Staff, and was certified by the Presiding Judge. The FERC’s action on the settlement agreement is pending. The remaining merchant transmission cost allocation issues will proceed to hearing in May 2008. On February 13, 2008, AEP appealed the FERC’s orders to the federal Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit. The Illinois Commerce Commission, the PUCO and Dayton Power & Light have also appealed these orders to the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals. The appeals of these parties and others have been consolidated for argument in the Seventh Circuit.
Post Transition Period Rate Design
The FERC had directed MISO, PJM, and the respective transmission owners to make filings on or before August 1, 2007 to reevaluate transmission rate design within MISO, and between MISO and PJM. On August 1, 2007, filings were made by MISO, PJM, and the vast majority of transmission owners, including FirstEnergy affiliates, which proposed to retain the existing transmission rate design. These filings were approved by the FERC on January 31, 2008. As a result of the FERC’s approval, the rates charged to FirstEnergy’s load-serving affiliates for transmission service over existing transmission facilities in MISO and PJM are unchanged. In a related filing, MISO and MISO transmission owners requested that the current MISO pricing for new transmission facilities that spreads 20% of the cost of new 345 kV and higher transmission facilities across the entire MISO footprint (known as the RECB methodology) be retained.
On September 17, 2007, AEP filed a complaint under Sections 206 and 306 of the Federal Power Act seeking to have the entire transmission rate design and cost allocation methods used by MISO and PJM declared unjust, unreasonable, and unduly discriminatory, and to have the FERC fix a uniform regional transmission rate design and cost allocation method for the entire MISO and PJM “Super Region” that recovers the average cost of new and existing transmission facilities operated at voltages of 345 kV and above from all transmission customers. Lower voltage facilities would continue to be recovered in the local utility transmission rate zone through a license plate rate. AEP requested a refund effective October 1, 2007, or alternatively, February 1, 2008. On January 31, 2008, the FERC issued an order denying the complaint. A rehearing request by AEP is pending before the FERC.
Distribution of MISO Network Service Revenues
Effective February 1, 2008, the MISO Transmission Owners Agreement provides for a change in the method of distributing transmission revenues among the transmission owners. MISO and a majority of the MISO transmission owners filed on December 3, 2007 to change the MISO tariff to clarify, for purposes of distributing network transmission revenue to the transmission owners, that all network transmission service revenues, whether collected by MISO or directly by the transmission owner, are included in the revenue distribution calculation. This clarification was necessary because some network transmission service revenues are collected and retained by transmission owners in states where retail choice does not exist, and their “unbundled” retail load is currently exempt from MISO network service charges. The tariff changes filed with the FERC ensure that revenues collected by transmission owners from bundled load are taken into account in the revenue distribution calculation, and that transmission owners with bundled load do not collect more than their revenue requirements. Absent the changes, transmission owners, and ultimately their customers, with unbundled load or in retail choice states, such as ATSI, would subsidize transmission owners with bundled load, who would collect their revenue requirement from bundled load, plus share in revenues collected by MISO from unbundled customers. This would result in a large revenue shortfall for ATSI, which would eventually be passed on to customers in the form of higher transmission rates as calculated pursuant to ATSI’s Attachment O formula under the MISO tariff.
Numerous parties filed in support of the tariff changes, including the public service commissions of Michigan, Ohio and Wisconsin. Ameren filed a protest on December 26, 2007, arguing that the December 3, 2007 filing violates the MISO Transmission Owners’ Agreement as well as an agreement among Ameren (Union Electric), MISO, and the Missouri Public Service Commission, which provides that Union Electric’s bundled load cannot be charged by MISO for network service. On February 2, 2008, the FERC issued an order conditionally accepting the tariff amendment subject to a minor compliance filing, which was made on March 3, 2008. This order ensures that ATSI will continue to receive transmission revenues from MISO equivalent to its transmission revenue requirement. A rehearing request by Ameren is pending before the FERC.
On February 1, 2008, MISO filed a request to continue using the existing revenue distribution methodology on an interim basis pending amendment of the MISO Transmission Owners’ Agreement. This request was accepted by the FERC on March 13, 2008. On that same day, MISO and the MISO transmission owners made a filing to amend the Transmission Owners’ Agreement to effectively continue the distribution of transmission revenues that was in effect prior to February 1, 2008. This matter is currently pending before the FERC.
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MISO Ancillary Services Market and Balancing Area Consolidation
MISO made a filing on September 14, 2007 to establish an ASM for regulation, spinning and supplemental reserves, to consolidate the existing 24 balancing areas within the MISO footprint, and to establish MISO as the NERC registered balancing authority for the region. This filing would permit load serving entities to purchase their operating reserve requirements in a competitive market. FirstEnergy supports the proposal to establish markets for Ancillary Services and consolidate existing balancing areas. On February 25, 2008, the FERC issued an order approving the ASM subject to certain compliance filings. MISO has since notified the FERC that the start of its ASM is delayed until September of 2008.
Duquesne’s Request to Withdraw from PJM
On November 8, 2007, Duquesne Light Company (Duquesne) filed a request with the FERC to exit PJM and to join the MISO. In its filing, Duquesne asked the FERC to be relieved of certain capacity payment obligations to PJM for capacity auctions conducted prior to its departure from PJM, but covering service for planning periods through May 31, 2011. Duquesne asserted that its primary reason for exiting PJM is to avoid paying future obligations created by PJM’s forward capacity market. FirstEnergy believes that Duquesne’s filing did not identify or address numerous legal, financial or operational issues that are implicated or affected directly by Duquesne’s proposal. Consequently, FirstEnergy submitted responsive filings that, while conceding Duquesne’s rights to exit PJM, contested various aspects of Duquesne’s proposal. FirstEnergy particularly focused on Duquesne’s proposal that it be allowed to exit PJM without payment of its share of existing capacity market commitments. FirstEnergy also objected to Duquesne’s failure to address the firm transmission service requirements that would be necessary for FirstEnergy to continue to use the Beaver Valley Plant to meet existing commitments in the PJM capacity markets and to serve native load. Other market participants also submitted filings contesting Duquesne’s plans.
On January 17, 2008, the FERC conditionally approved Duquesne’s request to exit PJM. Among other conditions, the FERC obligated Duquesne to pay the PJM capacity obligations through May 31, 2011. The FERC’s order took notice of the numerous transmission and other issues raised by FirstEnergy and other parties to the proceeding, but did not provide any responsive rulings or other guidance. Rather, the FERC ordered Duquesne to make a compliance filing in forty-five days detailing how Duquesne will satisfy its obligations under the PJM Transmission Owners’ Agreement. The FERC likewise directed the MISO to submit detailed plans to integrate Duquesne into the MISO. Finally, the FERC directed MISO and PJM to work together to resolve the substantive and procedural issues implicated by Duquesne’s transition into the MISO. These issues remain unresolved. If Duquesne satisfies all of the obligations set by the FERC, its planned transition date is October 9, 2008.
On March 18, 2008, the PJM Power Providers Group filed a request for emergency clarification regarding whether Duquesne-zone generators (including the Beaver Valley Plant) could participate in PJM’s May 2008 auction for the 2011-2012 RPM delivery year. FirstEnergy and the other Duquesne-zone generators filed responsive pleadings. On April 18, 2008, the FERC issued its Order on Motion for Emergency Clarification, wherein the FERC ruled that although the status of the Duquesne-zone generators will change to “External Resource” upon Duquesne’s exit from PJM, these generators can contract with PJM for the transmission reservations necessary to participate in the May 2008 auction. FirstEnergy has complied with FERC’s order by obtaining executed transmission service agreements for firm point-to-point transmission service for the 2011-2012 delivery year and, as such, FirstEnergy satisfies the criteria to bid the Beaver Valley Plant into the May 2008 RPM auction. Notwithstanding these events, on April 30, 2008 and May 1, 2008, certain members of the PJM Power Providers Group filed further pleadings on these issues. On May 2, 2008, FirstEnergy filed a responsive pleading. FirstEnergy is participating in the May 2008 RPM auction for the 2011-2012 RPM delivery year.
MISO Resource Adequacy Proposal
MISO made a filing on December 28, 2007 that would create an enforceable planning reserve requirement in the MISO tariff for load serving entities such as the Ohio Companies, Penn Power, and FES. This requirement is proposed to become effective for the planning year beginning June 1, 2009. The filing would permit MISO to establish the reserve margin requirement for load serving entities based upon a one day loss of load in ten years standard, unless the state utility regulatory agency establishes a different planning reserve for load serving entities in its state. FirstEnergy generally supports the proposal as it promotes a mechanism that will result in long-term commitments from both load-serving entities and resources, including both generation and demand side resources that are necessary for reliable resource adequacy and planning in the MISO footprint. Comments on the filing were filed on January 28, 2008. The FERC approved MISO’s Resource Adequacy proposal on March 26, 2008. Rehearing requests are pending on the FERC’s March 26 Order. A compliance filing establishing the enforcement mechanism for the reserve margin requirement is due on or before June 25, 2008.
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Organized Wholesale Power Markets
On February 21, 2008, the FERC issued a NOPR through which it proposes to adopt new rules that it states will “improve operations in organized electric markets, boost competition and bring additional benefits to consumers.” The proposed rule addresses demand response and market pricing during reserve shortages, long-term power contracting, market-monitoring policies, and responsiveness of RTOs and ISOs to stakeholders and customers. FirstEnergy does not believe that the proposed rule will have a significant impact on its operations. Comments on the NOPR were filed on April 18, 2008.
Environmental Matters
Various federal, state and local authorities regulate FirstEnergy with regard to air and water quality and other environmental matters. The effects of compliance on FirstEnergy with regard to environmental matters could have a material adverse effect on FirstEnergy's earnings and competitive position to the extent that it competes with companies that are not subject to such regulations and, therefore, do not bear the risk of costs associated with compliance, or failure to comply, with such regulations. FirstEnergy estimates capital expenditures for environmental compliance of approximately $1.4 billion for the period 2008-2012.
FirstEnergy accrues environmental liabilities only when it concludes that it is probable that it has an obligation for such costs and can reasonably estimate the amount of such costs. Unasserted claims are reflected in FirstEnergy’s determination of environmental liabilities and are accrued in the period that they become both probable and reasonably estimable.
Clean Air Act Compliance
FirstEnergy is required to meet federally-approved SO2 emissions regulations. Violations of such regulations can result in the shutdown of the generating unit involved and/or civil or criminal penalties of up to $32,500 for each day the unit is in violation. The EPA has an interim enforcement policy for SO2 regulations in Ohio that allows for compliance based on a 30-day averaging period. FirstEnergy believes it is currently in compliance with this policy, but cannot predict what action the EPA may take in the future with respect to the interim enforcement policy.
The EPA Region 5 issued a Finding of Violation and NOV to the Bay Shore Power Plant dated June 15, 2006, alleging violations to various sections of the CAA. FirstEnergy has disputed those alleged violations based on its CAA permit, the Ohio SIP and other information provided to the EPA at an August 2006 meeting with the EPA. The EPA has several enforcement options (administrative compliance order, administrative penalty order, and/or judicial, civil or criminal action) and has indicated that such option may depend on the time needed to achieve and demonstrate compliance with the rules alleged to have been violated. On June 5, 2007, the EPA requested another meeting to discuss “an appropriate compliance program” and a disagreement regarding the opacity limit applicable to the common stack for Bay Shore Units 2, 3 and 4.
FirstEnergy complies with SO2 reduction requirements under the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 by burning lower-sulfur fuel, generating more electricity from lower-emitting plants, and/or using emission allowances. NOX reductions required by the 1990 Amendments are being achieved through combustion controls and the generation of more electricity at lower-emitting plants. In September 1998, the EPA finalized regulations requiring additional NOX reductions at FirstEnergy's facilities. The EPA's NOX Transport Rule imposes uniform reductions of NOX emissions (an approximate 85% reduction in utility plant NOX emissions from projected 2007 emissions) across a region of nineteen states (including Michigan, New Jersey, Ohio and Pennsylvania) and the District of Columbia based on a conclusion that such NOX emissions are contributing significantly to ozone levels in the eastern United States. FirstEnergy believes its facilities are also complying with the NOX budgets established under SIPs through combustion controls and post-combustion controls, including Selective Catalytic Reduction and SNCR systems, and/or using emission allowances.
On May 22, 2007, FirstEnergy and FGCO received a notice letter, required 60 days prior to the filing of a citizen suit under the federal CAA, alleging violations of air pollution laws at the Bruce Mansfield Plant, including opacity limitations. Prior to the receipt of this notice, the Plant was subject to a Consent Order and Agreement with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection concerning opacity emissions under which efforts to achieve compliance with the applicable laws will continue. On October 18, 2007, PennFuture filed a complaint, joined by three of its members, in the United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania. On January 11, 2008, FirstEnergy filed a motion to dismiss claims alleging a public nuisance. On April 24, 2008, the Court denied the motion to dismiss, but also ruled that monetary damages could not be recovered under the public nuisance claim.
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On December 18, 2007, the state of New Jersey filed a CAA citizen suit alleging NSR violations at the Portland Generation Station against Reliant (the current owner and operator), Sithe Energy (the purchaser of the Portland Station from Met-Ed in 1999), GPU, Inc. and Met-Ed. Specifically, New Jersey alleges that "modifications" at Portland Units 1 and 2 occurred between 1980 and 1995 without preconstruction NSR or permitting under the CAA's prevention of significant deterioration program, and seeks injunctive relief, penalties, attorney fees and mitigation of the harm caused by excess emissions. On March 14, 2008, Met-Ed filed a motion to dismiss the citizen suit claims against it and a stipulation in which the parties agreed that GPU, Inc. should be dismissed from this case. On March 26, 2008, GPU, Inc. was dismissed by the Court. Although it remains liable for civil or criminal penalties and fines that may be assessed relating to events prior to the sale of the Portland Station in 1999, Met-Ed is indemnified by Sithe Energy against any other liability arising under the CAA whether it arises out of pre-1999 or post-1999 events.
National Ambient Air Quality Standards
In March 2005, the EPA finalized the CAIR covering a total of 28 states (including Michigan, New Jersey, Ohio and Pennsylvania) and the District of Columbia based on proposed findings that air emissions from 28 eastern states and the District of Columbia significantly contribute to non-attainment of the NAAQS for fine particles and/or the "8-hour" ozone NAAQS in other states. CAIR requires reductions of NOX and SO2 emissions in two phases (Phase I in 2009 for NOX, 2010 for SO2 and Phase II in 2015 for both NOX and SO2). FirstEnergy's Michigan, Ohio and Pennsylvania fossil generation facilities will be subject to caps on SO2 and NOX emissions, whereas its New Jersey fossil generation facility will be subject to only a cap on NOX emissions. According to the EPA, SO2 emissions will be reduced by 45% (from 2003 levels) by 2010 across the states covered by the rule, with reductions reaching 73% (from 2003 levels) by 2015, capping SO2 emissions in affected states to just 2.5 million tons annually. NOX emissions will be reduced by 53% (from 2003 levels) by 2009 across the states covered by the rule, with reductions reaching 61% (from 2003 levels) by 2015, achieving a regional NOX cap of 1.3 million tons annually. CAIR has been challenged in the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia. The future cost of compliance with these regulations may be substantial and may depend on the outcome of this litigation and how CAIR is ultimately implemented.
Mercury Emissions
In December 2000, the EPA announced it would proceed with the development of regulations regarding hazardous air pollutants from electric power plants, identifying mercury as the hazardous air pollutant of greatest concern. In March 2005, the EPA finalized the CAMR, which provides a cap-and-trade program to reduce mercury emissions from coal-fired power plants in two phases; initially, capping national mercury emissions at 38 tons by 2010 (as a "co-benefit" from implementation of SO2 and NOX emission caps under the EPA's CAIR program) and 15 tons per year by 2018. Several states and environmental groups appealed the CAMR to the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia. On February 8, 2008, the court vacated the CAMR, ruling that the EPA failed to take the necessary steps to “de-list” coal-fired power plants from its hazardous air pollutant program and, therefore, could not promulgate a cap and trade program. The EPA must now seek further judicial review of that ruling or take regulatory action to promulgate new mercury emission standards for coal-fired power plants. FGCO’s future cost of compliance with mercury regulations may be substantial and will depend on the action taken by the EPA and on how they are ultimately implemented.
Pennsylvania has submitted a new mercury rule for EPA approval that does not provide a cap-and-trade approach as in the CAMR, but rather follows a command-and-control approach imposing emission limits on individual sources. It is anticipated that compliance with these regulations, if approved by the EPA and implemented, would not require the addition of mercury controls at the Bruce Mansfield Plant, FirstEnergy’s only Pennsylvania coal-fired power plant, until 2015, if at all.
W. H. Sammis Plant
In 1999 and 2000, the EPA issued an NOV and the DOJ filed a civil complaint against OE and Penn based on operation and maintenance of the W.H. Sammis Plant (Sammis NSR Litigation) and filed similar complaints involving 44 other U.S. power plants. This case, along with seven other similar cases, are referred to as the NSR cases.
On March 18, 2005, OE and Penn announced that they had reached a settlement with the EPA, the DOJ and three states (Connecticut, New Jersey and New York) that resolved all issues related to the Sammis NSR litigation. This settlement agreement, which is in the form of a consent decree, was approved by the court on July 11, 2005, and requires reductions of NOX and SO2 emissions at the Sammis, Burger, Eastlake and Mansfield coal-fired plants through the installation of pollution control devices and provides for stipulated penalties for failure to install and operate such pollution controls in accordance with that agreement. Consequently, if FirstEnergy fails to install such pollution control devices, for any reason, including, but not limited to, the failure of any third-party contractor to timely meet its delivery obligations for such devices, FirstEnergy could be exposed to penalties under the Sammis NSR Litigation consent decree. Capital expenditures necessary to complete requirements of the Sammis NSR Litigation consent decree are currently estimated to be $1.3 billion for 2008-2012 ($650 million of which is expected to be spent during 2008, with the largest portion of the remaining $650 million expected to be spent in 2009). This amount is included in the estimated capital expenditures for environmental compliance referenced above.
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On April 2, 2007, the United States Supreme Court ruled that changes in annual emissions (in tons/year) rather than changes in hourly emissions rate (in kilograms/hour) must be used to determine whether an emissions increase triggers NSR. Subsequently, on May 8, 2007, the EPA proposed to revise the NSR regulations to utilize changes in the hourly emission rate (in kilograms/hour) to determine whether an emissions increase triggers NSR. The EPA has not yet issued a final regulation. FGCO’s future cost of compliance with those regulations may be substantial and will depend on how they are ultimately implemented.
Climate Change
In December 1997, delegates to the United Nations' climate summit in Japan adopted an agreement, the Kyoto Protocol, to address global warming by reducing the amount of man-made GHG emitted by developed countries by 2012. The United States signed the Kyoto Protocol in 1998 but it failed to receive the two-thirds vote required for ratification by the United States Senate. However, the Bush administration has committed the United States to a voluntary climate change strategy to reduce domestic GHG intensity – the ratio of emissions to economic output – by 18% through 2012. Also, in an April 16, 2008 speech, President Bush set a policy goal of stopping the growth of GHG emissions by 2025, as the next step beyond the 2012 strategy. In addition, the EPACT established a Committee on Climate Change Technology to coordinate federal climate change activities and promote the development and deployment of GHG reducing technologies.
There are a number of initiatives to reduce GHG emissions under consideration at the federal, state and international level. At the international level, efforts to reach a new global agreement to reduce GHG emissions post-2012 have begun with the Bali Roadmap, which outlines a two-year process designed to lead to an agreement in 2009. At the federal level, members of Congress have introduced several bills seeking to reduce emissions of GHG in the United States, and the Senate Environmental and Public Works Committees have passed one such bill. State activities, primarily the northeastern states participating in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative and western states led by California, have coordinated efforts to develop regional strategies to control emissions of certain GHGs.
On April 2, 2007, the United States Supreme Court found that the EPA has the authority to regulate CO2 emissions from automobiles as “air pollutants” under the CAA. Although this decision did not address CO2 emissions from electric generating plants, the EPA has similar authority under the CAA to regulate “air pollutants” from those and other facilities.
FirstEnergy cannot currently estimate the financial impact of climate change policies, although potential legislative or regulatory programs restricting CO2 emissions could require significant capital and other expenditures. The CO2 emissions per KWH of electricity generated by FirstEnergy is lower than many regional competitors due to its diversified generation sources, which include low or non-CO2 emitting gas-fired and nuclear generators.
Clean Water Act
Various water quality regulations, the majority of which are the result of the federal Clean Water Act and its amendments, apply to FirstEnergy's plants. In addition, Ohio, New Jersey and Pennsylvania have water quality standards applicable to FirstEnergy's operations. As provided in the Clean Water Act, authority to grant federal National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System water discharge permits can be assumed by a state. Ohio, New Jersey and Pennsylvania have assumed such authority.
On September 7, 2004, the EPA established new performance standards under Section 316(b) of the Clean Water Act for reducing impacts on fish and shellfish from cooling water intake structures at certain existing large electric generating plants. The regulations call for reductions in impingement mortality (when aquatic organisms are pinned against screens or other parts of a cooling water intake system) and entrainment (which occurs when aquatic life is drawn into a facility's cooling water system). On January 26, 2007, the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit remanded portions of the rulemaking dealing with impingement mortality and entrainment back to the EPA for further rulemaking and eliminated the restoration option from the EPA’s regulations. On July 9, 2007, the EPA suspended this rule, noting that until further rulemaking occurs, permitting authorities should continue the existing practice of applying their best professional judgment (BPJ) to minimize impacts on fish and shellfish from cooling water intake structures. On April 14, 2008, the Supreme Court of the United States granted a petition for a writ of certiorari to review certain aspects of the Second Circuit’s decision. FirstEnergy is studying various control options and their costs and effectiveness. Depending on the results of such studies, the outcome of the Supreme Court’s review of the Second Circuit’s decision, the EPA’s further rulemaking and any action taken by the states exercising BPJ, the future cost of compliance with these standards may require material capital expenditures.
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Regulation of Hazardous Waste
As a result of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976, as amended, and the Toxic Substances Control Act of 1976, federal and state hazardous waste regulations have been promulgated. Certain fossil-fuel combustion waste products, such as coal ash, were exempted from hazardous waste disposal requirements pending the EPA's evaluation of the need for future regulation. The EPA subsequently determined that regulation of coal ash as a hazardous waste is unnecessary. In April 2000, the EPA announced that it will develop national standards regulating disposal of coal ash under its authority to regulate non-hazardous waste.
Under NRC regulations, FirstEnergy must ensure that adequate funds will be available to decommission its nuclear facilities. As of March 31, 2008, FirstEnergy had approximately $2.0 billion invested in external trusts to be used for the decommissioning and environmental remediation of Davis-Besse, Beaver Valley, Perry and TMI-2. As part of the application to the NRC to transfer the ownership of Davis-Besse, Beaver Valley and Perry to NGC in 2005, FirstEnergy agreed to contribute another $80 million to these trusts by 2010. Consistent with NRC guidance, utilizing a “real” rate of return on these funds of approximately 2% over inflation, these trusts are expected to exceed the minimum decommissioning funding requirements set by the NRC. Conservatively, these estimates do not include any rate of return that the trusts may earn over the 20-year plant useful life extensions that FirstEnergy (and Exelon for TMI-1 as it relates to the timing of the decommissioning of TMI-2) seeks for these facilities.
The Companies have been named as PRPs at waste disposal sites, which may require cleanup under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980. Allegations of disposal of hazardous substances at historical sites and the liability involved are often unsubstantiated and subject to dispute; however, federal law provides that all PRPs for a particular site may be liable on a joint and several basis. Therefore, environmental liabilities that are considered probable have been recognized on the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of March 31, 2008, based on estimates of the total costs of cleanup, the Companies' proportionate responsibility for such costs and the financial ability of other unaffiliated entities to pay. Total liabilities of approximately $92 million (JCP&L - $65 million, TE - $1 million, CEI - $1 million and FirstEnergy Corp. - $25 million) have been accrued through March 31, 2008. Included in the total for JCP&L are accrued liabilities of approximately $56 million for environmental remediation of former manufactured gas plants in New Jersey; which are being recovered by JCP&L through a non-bypassable SBC.
Other Legal Proceedings
Power Outages and Related Litigation
In July 1999, the Mid-Atlantic States experienced a severe heat wave, which resulted in power outages throughout the service territories of many electric utilities, including JCP&L's territory. In an investigation into the causes of the outages and the reliability of the transmission and distribution systems of all four of New Jersey’s electric utilities, the NJBPU concluded that there was not a prima facie case demonstrating that, overall, JCP&L provided unsafe, inadequate or improper service to its customers. Two class action lawsuits (subsequently consolidated into a single proceeding) were filed in New Jersey Superior Court in July 1999 against JCP&L, GPU and other GPU companies, seeking compensatory and punitive damages arising from the July 1999 service interruptions in the JCP&L territory.
In August 2002, the trial court granted partial summary judgment to JCP&L and dismissed the plaintiffs' claims for consumer fraud, common law fraud, negligent misrepresentation, and strict product liability. In November 2003, the trial court granted JCP&L's motion to decertify the class and denied plaintiffs' motion to permit into evidence their class-wide damage model indicating damages in excess of $50 million. These class decertification and damage rulings were appealed to the Appellate Division. The Appellate Division issued a decision in July 2004, affirming the decertification of the originally certified class, but remanding for certification of a class limited to those customers directly impacted by the outages of JCP&L transformers in Red Bank, NJ, based on a common incident involving the failure of the bushings of two large transformers in the Red Bank substation resulting in planned and unplanned outages in the area during a 2-3 day period. In 2005, JCP&L renewed its motion to decertify the class based on a very limited number of class members who incurred damages and also filed a motion for summary judgment on the remaining plaintiffs’ claims for negligence, breach of contract and punitive damages. In July 2006, the New Jersey Superior Court dismissed the punitive damage claim and again decertified the class based on the fact that a vast majority of the class members did not suffer damages and those that did would be more appropriately addressed in individual actions. Plaintiffs appealed this ruling to the New Jersey Appellate Division which, in March 2007, reversed the decertification of the Red Bank class and remanded this matter back to the Trial Court to allow plaintiffs sufficient time to establish a damage model or individual proof of damages. JCP&L filed a petition for allowance of an appeal of the Appellate Division ruling to the New Jersey Supreme Court which was denied in May 2007. Proceedings are continuing in the Superior Court and a case management conference with the presiding Judge is scheduled for June 13, 2008. FirstEnergy is defending this class action but is unable to predict the outcome of this matter. No liability has been accrued as of March 31, 2008.
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Nuclear Plant Matters
On May 14, 2007, the Office of Enforcement of the NRC issued a DFI to FENOC, following FENOC’s reply to an April 2, 2007 NRC request for information, about two reports prepared by expert witnesses for an insurance arbitration (the insurance claim was subsequently withdrawn by FirstEnergy in December 2007) related to Davis-Besse. The NRC indicated that this information was needed for the NRC “to determine whether an Order or other action should be taken pursuant to 10 CFR 2.202, to provide reasonable assurance that FENOC will continue to operate its licensed facilities in accordance with the terms of its licenses and the Commission’s regulations.” FENOC was directed to submit the information to the NRC within 30 days. On June 13, 2007, FENOC filed a response to the NRC’s DFI reaffirming that it accepts full responsibility for the mistakes and omissions leading up to the damage to the reactor vessel head and that it remains committed to operating Davis-Besse and FirstEnergy’s other nuclear plants safely and responsibly. FENOC submitted a supplemental response clarifying certain aspects of the DFI response to the NRC on July 16, 2007. On August 15, 2007, the NRC issued a confirmatory order imposing these commitments. FENOC must inform the NRC’s Office of Enforcement after it completes the key commitments embodied in the NRC’s order. FENOC’s compliance with these commitments is subject to future NRC review.
Other Legal Matters
There are various lawsuits, claims (including claims for asbestos exposure) and proceedings related to FirstEnergy's normal business operations pending against FirstEnergy and its subsidiaries. The other potentially material items not otherwise discussed above are described below.
On August 22, 2005, a class action complaint was filed against OE in Jefferson County, Ohio Common Pleas Court, seeking compensatory and punitive damages to be determined at trial based on claims of negligence and eight other tort counts alleging damages from W.H. Sammis Plant air emissions. The two named plaintiffs are also seeking injunctive relief to eliminate harmful emissions and repair property damage and the institution of a medical monitoring program for class members. On April 5, 2007, the Court rejected the plaintiffs’ request to certify this case as a class action and, accordingly, did not appoint the plaintiffs as class representatives or their counsel as class counsel. On July 30, 2007, plaintiffs’ counsel voluntarily withdrew their request for reconsideration of the April 5, 2007 Court order denying class certification and the Court heard oral argument on the plaintiffs’ motion to amend their complaint which OE opposed. On August 2, 2007, the Court denied the plaintiffs’ motion to amend their complaint. The plaintiffs have appealed the Court’s denial of the motion for certification as a class action and motion to amend their complaint.
JCP&L's bargaining unit employees filed a grievance challenging JCP&L's 2002 call-out procedure that required bargaining unit employees to respond to emergency power outages. On May 20, 2004, an arbitration panel concluded that the call-out procedure violated the parties' collective bargaining agreement. At the conclusion of the June 1, 2005 hearing, the arbitration panel decided not to hear testimony on damages and closed the proceedings. On September 9, 2005, the arbitration panel issued an opinion to award approximately $16 million to the bargaining unit employees. On February 6, 2006, a federal district court granted a union motion to dismiss, as premature, a JCP&L appeal of the award filed on October 18, 2005. A final order identifying the individual damage amounts was issued on October 31, 2007. The award appeal process was initiated. The union filed a motion with the federal court to confirm the award and JCP&L filed its answer and counterclaim to vacate the award on December 31, 2007. The court held a scheduling conference in April 2008 where it set a briefing schedule with all briefs to be concluded by July 2008. JCP&L recognized a liability for the potential $16 million award in 2005.
The union employees at the Bruce Mansfield Plant have been working without a labor contract since February 15, 2008. The parties are continuing to bargain with the assistance of a federal mediator. FirstEnergy has a strike mitigation plan ready in the event of a strike.
FirstEnergy accrues legal liabilities only when it concludes that it is probable that it has an obligation for such costs and can reasonably estimate the amount of such costs. If it were ultimately determined that FirstEnergy or its subsidiaries have legal liability or are otherwise made subject to liability based on the above matters, it could have a material adverse effect on FirstEnergy's or its subsidiaries' financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
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NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS AND INTERPRETATIONS
SFAS 141(R) – “Business Combinations”
In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS 141(R), which requires the acquiring entity in a business combination to recognize all the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the transaction; establishes the acquisition-date fair value as the measurement objective for all assets acquired and liabilities assumed; and requires the acquirer to disclose to investors and other users all of the information they need to evaluate and understand the nature and financial effect of the business combination. SFAS 141(R) attempts to reduce the complexity of existing GAAP related to business combinations. The Standard includes both core principles and pertinent application guidance, eliminating the need for numerous EITF issues and other interpretative guidance. SFAS 141(R) will affect business combinations entered into by FirstEnergy that close after January 1, 2009. In addition, the Standard also affects the accounting for changes in tax valuation allowances made after January 1, 2009, that were established as part of a business combination prior to the implementation of this Standard. FirstEnergy is currently evaluating the impact of adopting this Standard on its financial statements.
SFAS 160 - “Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements – an Amendment of ARB No. 51”
In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS 160 that establishes accounting and reporting standards for the noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary and for the deconsolidation of a subsidiary. It clarifies that a noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary is an ownership interest in the consolidated entity that should be reported as equity in the consolidated financial statements. This Statement is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning on or after December 15, 2008. Early adoption is prohibited. The Statement is not expected to have a material impact on FirstEnergy’s financial statements.
SFAS 161 - “Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities – an Amendment of FASB Statement No. 133” |
In March 2008, the FASB issued SFAS 161, which enhances the current disclosure framework for derivative instruments and hedging activities. The Statement requires that objectives for using derivative instruments be disclosed in terms of underlying risk and accounting designation. This disclosure better conveys the purpose of derivative use in terms of the risks that the entity is intending to manage. The FASB believes disclosing the fair values of derivative instruments and their gains and losses in a tabular format is designed to provide a more complete picture of the location in an entity’s financial statements of both the derivative positions existing at period end and the effect of using derivatives during the reporting period. Disclosing information about credit-risk-related contingent features is designed to provide information on the potential effect on an entity’s liquidity from using derivatives. Finally, this Statement requires cross-referencing within the footnotes, which is intended to help users of financial statements locate important information about derivative instruments. FirstEnergy is currently evaluating the impact of adopting this Standard on its financial statements.
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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Stockholders and Board of
Directors of FirstEnergy Corp.:
We have reviewed the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of FirstEnergy Corp. and its subsidiaries as of March 31, 2008 and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income and cash flows for each of the three-month periods ended March 31, 2008 and 2007. These interim financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management.
We conducted our review in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). A review of interim financial information consists principally of applying analytical procedures and making inquiries of persons responsible for financial and accounting matters. It is substantially less in scope than an audit conducted in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the objective of which is the expression of an opinion regarding the financial statements taken as a whole. Accordingly, we do not express such an opinion.
Based on our review, we are not aware of any material modifications that should be made to the accompanying consolidated interim financial statements for them to be in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
We previously audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2007, and the related consolidated statements of income, capitalization, common stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for the year then ended (not presented herein), and in our report (which contained references to the Company’s change in its method of accounting for uncertain tax positions as of January 1, 2007, defined benefit pension and other postretirement plans as of December 31, 2006 and conditional asset retirement obligations as of December 31, 2005, as discussed in Note 9, Note 3, Note 2(G) and Note 12 to the consolidated financial statements) dated February 28, 2008, we expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements. In our opinion, the information set forth in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet information as of December 31, 2007, is fairly stated in all material respects in relation to the consolidated balance sheet from which it has been derived.
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP Cleveland, Ohio May 7, 2008 |
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FIRSTENERGY CORP. | ||||||||
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME | ||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||
Three Months Ended | ||||||||
March 31, | ||||||||
2008 | 2007 | |||||||
(In millions except, | ||||||||
per share amounts) | ||||||||
REVENUES: | ||||||||
Electric utilities | $ | 2,913 | $ | 2,659 | ||||
Unregulated businesses | 364 | 314 | ||||||
Total revenues* | 3,277 | 2,973 | ||||||
EXPENSES: | ||||||||
Fuel and purchased power | 1,328 | 1,121 | ||||||
Other operating expenses | 800 | 749 | ||||||
Provision for depreciation | 164 | 156 | ||||||
Amortization of regulatory assets | 258 | 251 | ||||||
Deferral of new regulatory assets | (105 | ) | (144 | ) | ||||
General taxes | 215 | 203 | ||||||
Total expenses | 2,660 | 2,336 | ||||||
OPERATING INCOME | 617 | 637 | ||||||
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE): | ||||||||
Investment income | 17 | 33 | ||||||
Interest expense | (179 | ) | (185 | ) | ||||
Capitalized interest | 8 | 5 | ||||||
Total other expense | (154 | ) | (147 | ) | ||||
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES | 463 | 490 | ||||||
INCOME TAXES | 187 | 200 | ||||||
NET INCOME | $ | 276 | $ | 290 | ||||
BASIC EARNINGS PER SHARE OF COMMON STOCK | $ | 0.91 | $ | 0.92 | ||||
WEIGHTED AVERAGE NUMBER OF BASIC SHARES OUTSTANDING | 304 | 314 | ||||||
DILUTED EARNINGS PER SHARE OF COMMON STOCK | $ | 0.90 | $ | 0.92 | ||||
WEIGHTED AVERAGE NUMBER OF DILUTED SHARES OUTSTANDING | 307 | 316 | ||||||
DIVIDENDS DECLARED PER SHARE OF COMMON STOCK | $ | 0.55 | $ | 0.50 | ||||
* Includes $114 million and $108 million of excise tax collections in the first quarter of 2008 and 2007, respectively. | ||||||||
The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements as they relate to FirstEnergy Corp. are an integral | ||||||||
part of these statements. |
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FIRSTENERGY CORP. | ||||||||
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME | ||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||
Three Months Ended | ||||||||
March 31, | ||||||||
2008 | 2007 | |||||||
(In millions) | ||||||||
NET INCOME | $ | 276 | $ | 290 | ||||
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS): | ||||||||
Pension and other postretirement benefits | (20 | ) | (11 | ) | ||||
Unrealized gain (loss) on derivative hedges | (13 | ) | 21 | |||||
Change in unrealized gain on available-for-sale securities | (58 | ) | 17 | |||||
Other comprehensive income (loss) | (91 | ) | 27 | |||||
Income tax expense (benefit) related to other comprehensive income | (33 | ) | 9 | |||||
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax | (58 | ) | 18 | |||||
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME | $ | 218 | $ | 308 | ||||
The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements as they relate to FirstEnergy Corp. are an integral | ||||||||
part of these statements. |
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FIRSTENERGY CORP. | ||||||||
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS | ||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||
March 31, | December 31, | |||||||
2008 | 2007 | |||||||
(In millions) | ||||||||
ASSETS | ||||||||
CURRENT ASSETS: | ||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 70 | $ | 129 | ||||
Receivables- | ||||||||
Customers (less accumulated provisions of $34 million and | ||||||||
$36 million, respectively, for uncollectible accounts) | 1,264 | 1,256 | ||||||
Other (less accumulated provisions of $24 million and | ||||||||
$22 million, respectively, for uncollectible accounts) | 159 | 165 | ||||||
Materials and supplies, at average cost | 570 | 521 | ||||||
Prepayments and other | 307 | 159 | ||||||
2,370 | 2,230 | |||||||
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT: | ||||||||
In service | 24,894 | 24,619 | ||||||
Less - Accumulated provision for depreciation | 10,454 | 10,348 | ||||||
14,440 | 14,271 | |||||||
Construction work in progress | 1,465 | 1,112 | ||||||
15,905 | 15,383 | |||||||
INVESTMENTS: | ||||||||
Nuclear plant decommissioning trusts | 2,025 | 2,127 | ||||||
Investments in lease obligation bonds | 679 | 717 | ||||||
Other | 714 | 754 | ||||||
3,418 | 3,598 | |||||||
DEFERRED CHARGES AND OTHER ASSETS: | ||||||||
Goodwill | 5,606 | 5,607 | ||||||
Regulatory assets | 3,797 | 3,945 | ||||||
Pension assets | 723 | 700 | ||||||
Other | 596 | 605 | ||||||
10,722 | 10,857 | |||||||
$ | 32,415 | $ | 32,068 | |||||
LIABILITIES AND CAPITALIZATION | ||||||||
CURRENT LIABILITIES: | ||||||||
Currently payable long-term debt | $ | 2,183 | $ | 2,014 | ||||
Short-term borrowings | 1,649 | 903 | ||||||
Accounts payable | 754 | 777 | ||||||
Accrued taxes | 416 | 408 | ||||||
Other | 1,167 | 1,046 | ||||||
6,169 | 5,148 | |||||||
CAPITALIZATION: | ||||||||
Common stockholders’ equity- | ||||||||
Common stock, $.10 par value, authorized 375,000,000 shares- | ||||||||
304,835,407 shares outstanding. | 31 | 31 | ||||||
Other paid-in capital | 5,472 | 5,509 | ||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive loss | (108 | ) | (50 | ) | ||||
Retained earnings | 3,596 | 3,487 | ||||||
Total common stockholders' equity | 8,991 | 8,977 | ||||||
Long-term debt and other long-term obligations | 8,332 | 8,869 | ||||||
17,323 | 17,846 | |||||||
NONCURRENT LIABILITIES: | ||||||||
Accumulated deferred income taxes | 2,717 | 2,671 | ||||||
Asset retirement obligations | 1,287 | 1,267 | ||||||
Deferred gain on sale and leaseback transaction | 1,052 | 1,060 | ||||||
Power purchase contract loss liability | 682 | 750 | ||||||
Retirement benefits | 911 | 894 | ||||||
Lease market valuation liability | 643 | 663 | ||||||
Other | 1,631 | 1,769 | ||||||
8,923 | 9,074 | |||||||
COMMITMENTS, GUARANTEES AND CONTINGENCIES (Note 10) | ||||||||
$ | 32,415 | $ | 32,068 | |||||
The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements as they relate to FirstEnergy Corp. are an integral part of these | ||||||||
balance sheets. |
36
FIRSTENERGY CORP. | ||||||||
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS | ||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||
Three Months Ended | ||||||||
March 31, | ||||||||
2008 | 2007 | |||||||
(In millions) | ||||||||
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||
Net income | $ | 276 | $ | 290 | ||||
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash from operating activities- | ||||||||
Provision for depreciation | 164 | 156 | ||||||
Amortization of regulatory assets | 258 | 251 | ||||||
Deferral of new regulatory assets | (105 | ) | (144 | ) | ||||
Nuclear fuel and lease amortization | 26 | 26 | ||||||
Deferred purchased power and other costs | (59 | ) | (116 | ) | ||||
Deferred income taxes and investment tax credits, net | 89 | 53 | ||||||
Investment impairment | 16 | 5 | ||||||
Deferred rents and lease market valuation liability | 4 | (25 | ) | |||||
Accrued compensation and retirement benefits | (142 | ) | (65 | ) | ||||
Commodity derivative transactions, net | 8 | 1 | ||||||
Gain on asset sales | (37 | ) | - | |||||
Cash collateral received | 8 | 6 | ||||||
Pension trust contribution | - | (300 | ) | |||||
Decrease (increase) in operating assets- | ||||||||
Receivables | (6 | ) | (155 | ) | ||||
Materials and supplies | (17 | ) | 15 | |||||
Prepayments and other current assets | (115 | ) | (74 | ) | ||||
Increase (decrease) in operating liabilities- | ||||||||
Accounts payable | (23 | ) | (108 | ) | ||||
Accrued taxes | (5 | ) | 73 | |||||
Accrued interest | 91 | 86 | ||||||
Electric service prepayment programs | (19 | ) | (17 | ) | ||||
Other | (56 | ) | (15 | ) | ||||
Net cash provided from (used for) operating activities | 356 | (57 | ) | |||||
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||
New Financing- | ||||||||
Long-term debt | - | 250 | ||||||
Short-term borrowings, net | 746 | 1,139 | ||||||
Redemptions and Repayments- | ||||||||
Common stock | - | (891 | ) | |||||
Long-term debt | (368 | ) | (13 | ) | ||||
Net controlled disbursement activity | 6 | 12 | ||||||
Stock-based compensation tax benefit | 11 | 8 | ||||||
Common stock dividend payments | (168 | ) | (159 | ) | ||||
Net cash provided from financing activities | 227 | 346 | ||||||
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||
Property additions | (711 | ) | (296 | ) | ||||
Proceeds from asset sales | 50 | - | ||||||
Sales of investment securities held in trusts | 361 | 273 | ||||||
Purchases of investment securities held in trusts | (384 | ) | (294 | ) | ||||
Cash investments | 58 | 25 | ||||||
Other | (16 | ) | 2 | |||||
Net cash used for investing activities | (642 | ) | (290 | ) | ||||
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents | (59 | ) | (1 | ) | ||||
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period | 129 | 90 | ||||||
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period | $ | 70 | $ | 89 | ||||
The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements as they relate to FirstEnergy Corp. are an integral part of these statements. |
37
FIRSTENERGY SOLUTIONS CORP.
MANAGEMENT’S NARRATIVE |
ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS |
FES is a wholly owned subsidiary of FirstEnergy. FES provides energy-related products and services primarily in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Michigan and Maryland, and through its subsidiaries, FGCO and NGC, owns or leases and operates FirstEnergy’s fossil and hydroelectric generation facilities and owns FirstEnergy’s nuclear generation facilities, respectively. FENOC, a wholly owned subsidiary of FirstEnergy, operates and maintains the nuclear generating facilities.
FES’ revenues are primarily from the sale of electricity (provided from FES’ generating facilities and through purchased power arrangements) to affiliated utility companies to meet all or a portion of their PLR requirements. These affiliated power sales include a full-requirements PSA with OE, CEI and TE to supply each of their PLR obligations through 2008, at prices that take into consideration their respective PUCO-authorized billing rates. FES also has a partial requirements wholesale power sales agreement with its affiliates, Met-Ed and Penelec, to supply a portion of each of their respective PLR obligations at fixed prices through 2010. The fixed prices under the partial requirements agreement are expected to remain below wholesale market prices during the term of the agreement. FES also supplies the majority of the PLR requirements of Penn at market-based rates as a result of a competitive solicitation conducted by Penn. FES’ existing contractual obligations to Penn expire on May 31, 2008, but could continue if FES successfully bids in future competitive solicitations. FES’ revenues also include competitive retail and wholesale sales to non-affiliated customers in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Maryland and Michigan.
Results of Operations
In the first three months of 2008, net income decreased to $90 million from $103 million in the same period in 2007. The decrease in net income was primarily due to higher fuel and other operating expenses, partially offset by lower purchased power costs and higher revenues.
Revenues
Revenues increased by $81 million in the first three months of 2008 compared to the same period in 2007 due to increases in revenues from non-affiliated and affiliated wholesale sales, partially offset by lower retail generation sales. Retail generation sales revenues decreased as a result of decreased sales in the PJM market partially offset by increased sales in the MISO market. Lower sales in the PJM market were primarily due to lower contract renewals for commercial and industrial customers. Greater sales in the MISO market were primarily due to FES’ capturing more shopping customers in Penn’s service territory, partially offset by lower customer usage. Non-affiliated wholesale revenues increased as a result of more generation available for wholesale sales to non-affiliates.
The increase in affiliated company wholesale sales was due to greater sales to the Ohio and Pennsylvania Companies to meet their higher retail generation sales requirements. Higher unit prices resulted from the provision of the full-requirements PSA under which PSA rates reflect the increase in the Ohio Companies’ retail generation rates. The higher sales to the Pennsylvania Companies were due to increased Met-Ed and Penelec generation sales requirements. These increases were partially offset by lower sales to Penn due to a 45% increase in customer shopping in the first quarter of 2008 compared to the first quarter of 2007.
Transmission revenue increased $10 million due to increased retail load in the MISO market and higher transmission prices ($12 million), partially offset by reduced FTR auction revenues ($2 million).
Changes in revenues in the first three months of 2008 from the same period of 2007 are summarized below:
Three Months Ended | ||||||||||
March 31, | Increase | |||||||||
Revenues by Type of Service | 2008 | 2007 | (Decrease) | |||||||
(In millions) | ||||||||||
Non-Affiliated Generation Sales: | ||||||||||
Retail | $ | 160 | $ | 174 | $ | (14 | ) | |||
Wholesale | 129 | 103 | 26 | |||||||
Total Non-Affiliated Generation Sales | 289 | 277 | 12 | |||||||
Affiliated Generation Sales | 776 | 714 | 62 | |||||||
Transmission | 33 | 23 | 10 | |||||||
Other | 1 | 4 | (3 | ) | ||||||
Total Revenues | $ | 1,099 | $ | 1,018 | $ | 81 |
38
The following tables summarize the price and volume factors contributing to changes in revenues from non-affiliated and affiliated generation sales in the first three months of 2008 compared to the same period last year:
Increase | ||||
Source of Change in Non-Affiliated Generation Revenues | (Decrease) | |||
(In millions) | ||||
Retail: | ||||
Effect of 9.0% decrease in sales volumes | $ | (16 | ) | |
Change in prices | 2 | |||
(14 | ) | |||
Wholesale: | ||||
Effect of 3.5% increase in sales volumes | 4 | |||
Change in prices | 22 | |||
26 | ||||
Net Increase in Non-Affiliated Generation Revenues | $ | 12 |
Increase | ||||
Source of Change in Affiliated Generation Revenues | (Decrease) | |||
(In millions) | ||||
Ohio Companies: | ||||
Effect of 1.2% increase in sales volumes | $ | 6 | ||
Change in prices | 44 | |||
50 | ||||
Pennsylvania Companies: | ||||
Effect of 9.0% increase in sales volumes | 16 | |||
Change in prices | (4 | ) | ||
12 | ||||
Net Increase in Affiliated Generation Revenues | $ | 62 |
Expenses
Total expenses increased by $94 million in the first three months of 2008 compared with the same period of 2007. The following table summarizes the factors contributing to the changes in fuel and purchased power costs in the first three months of 2008 from the same period last year:
Source of Change in Fuel and Purchased Power | Increase (Decrease) | |||
(In millions) | ||||
Nuclear Fuel: | ||||
Change due to increased unit costs | $ | 1 | ||
Change due to volume consumed | (3 | ) | ||
(2 | ) | |||
Fossil Fuel: | ||||
Change due to increased unit costs | 19 | |||
Change due to volume consumed | 71 | |||
90 | ||||
Non-affiliated Purchased Power: | ||||
Change due to increased unit costs | 55 | |||
Change due to volume purchased | (34 | ) | ||
21 | ||||
Affiliated Purchased Power: | ||||
Change due to decreased unit costs | (16 | ) | ||
Change due to volume purchased | (35 | ) | ||
(51 | ) | |||
Net Increase in Fuel and Purchased Power Costs | $ | 58 |
Fossil fuel costs increased $90 million in the first three months of 2008 primarily as a result of increased coal consumption reflecting higher generation as a result of fewer outages in 2008 compared to 2007. Higher unit prices were due to increased coal transportation and emission allowance costs in the first quarter of 2008. The higher fossil fuel costs were partially offset by lower nuclear fuel costs of $2 million. Lower nuclear fuel costs reflect decreased nuclear generation primarily as a result of the refueling outage at Davis-Besse in the first quarter of 2008.
39
Purchased power costs decreased as a result of lower purchases from affiliates, partially offset by increased non-affiliated purchased power costs. Purchases from affiliated companies decreased as a result of the assignment of CEI’s and TE’s leasehold interests in the Mansfield Plant to FGCO in October 2007. Purchased power costs from non-affiliates increased primarily as a result of higher market rates partially offset by reduced volume requirements due to increased available fossil generation.
Other operating expenses increased by $33 million in the first three months of 2008 from the same period of 2007 primarily due to lease expenses relating to the assignment of CEI’s and TE’s leasehold interests in the Mansfield Plant to FGCO and the sale and leaseback of Mansfield Unit 1 that were completed subsequent to the first quarter in 2007. Higher nuclear operating costs were due to the refueling outage at Davis-Besse and preparatory work associated with the Beaver Valley Unit 2 refueling outage that is scheduled for the second quarter of 2008.
Depreciation expense increased by $2 million in the first three months of 2008 primarily due to fossil and nuclear property additions since the first quarter of 2007.
General taxes increased by $1 million in the first three months of 2008 compared to the same period of 2007 as a result of higher gross receipts taxes and property taxes.
Other Expense
Other expense increased by $4 million in the first three months of 2008 from the same period of 2007 primarily as a result of an increase in trust securities impairments and reduced loans to the unregulated money pool, partially offset by lower interest expense. Lower interest expense reflected the repayment of notes issued to associated companies in connection with the transfers of generation assets in 2005, partially offset by the issuance of lower-cost pollution control debt subsequent to March 31, 2007.
Legal Proceedings
See the “Regulatory Matters,” “Environmental Matters” and “Other Legal Proceedings” sections within the Combined Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Registrant Subsidiaries for discussion of legal proceedings applicable to FES.
New Accounting Standards and Interpretations
See the “New Accounting Standards and Interpretations” section within the Combined Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Registrant Subsidiaries for discussion of new accounting standards and interpretations applicable to FES.
40
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Stockholder and Board of
Directors of FirstEnergy Solutions Corp.:
We have reviewed the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of FirstEnergy Solutions Corp. and its subsidiaries as of March 31, 2008 and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income and cash flows for each of the three-month periods ended March 31, 2008 and 2007. These interim financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management.
We conducted our review in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). A review of interim financial information consists principally of applying analytical procedures and making inquiries of persons responsible for financial and accounting matters. It is substantially less in scope than an audit conducted in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the objective of which is the expression of an opinion regarding the financial statements taken as a whole. Accordingly, we do not express such an opinion.
Based on our review, we are not aware of any material modifications that should be made to the accompanying consolidated interim financial statements for them to be in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
We previously audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2007, and the related consolidated statements of income, capitalization, common stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for the year then ended (not presented herein), and in our report (which contained references to the Company’s change in its method of accounting for uncertain tax positions as of January 1, 2007, defined benefit pension and other postretirement plans as of December 31, 2006 and conditional asset retirement obligations as of December 31, 2005, as discussed in Note 8, Note 4, Note 2(G) and Note 11 to the consolidated financial statements) dated February 28, 2008, we expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements. In our opinion, the information set forth in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet information as of December 31, 2007, is fairly stated in all material respects in relation to the consolidated balance sheet from which it has been derived.
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP Cleveland, Ohio May 7, 2008 |
41
FIRSTENERGY SOLUTIONS CORP. | ||||||||
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME | ||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||
Three Months Ended | ||||||||
March 31, | ||||||||
2008 | 2007 | |||||||
(In thousands) | ||||||||
REVENUES: | ||||||||
Electric sales to affiliates | $ | 776,307 | $ | 713,674 | ||||
Electric sales to non-affiliates | 301,266 | 287,629 | ||||||
Other | 21,543 | 16,990 | ||||||
Total revenues | 1,099,116 | 1,018,293 | ||||||
EXPENSES: | ||||||||
Fuel | 321,689 | 233,535 | ||||||
Purchased power from non-affiliates | 206,724 | 186,203 | ||||||
Purchased power from affiliates | 25,485 | 76,483 | ||||||
Other operating expenses | 296,546 | 263,596 | ||||||
Provision for depreciation | 49,742 | 48,010 | ||||||
General taxes | 23,197 | 21,718 | ||||||
Total expenses | 923,383 | 829,545 | ||||||
OPERATING INCOME | 175,733 | 188,748 | ||||||
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE): | ||||||||
Miscellaneous income (expense) | (2,904 | ) | 19,732 | |||||
Interest expense to affiliates | (7,210 | ) | (29,446 | ) | ||||
Interest expense - other | (24,535 | ) | (17,358 | ) | ||||
Capitalized interest | 6,663 | 3,209 | ||||||
Total other expense | (27,986 | ) | (23,863 | ) | ||||
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES | 147,747 | 164,885 | ||||||
INCOME TAXES | 57,763 | 62,381 | ||||||
NET INCOME | 89,984 | 102,504 | ||||||
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS): | ||||||||
Pension and other postretirement benefits | (1,820 | ) | (1,360 | ) | ||||
Unrealized gain on derivative hedges | 5,718 | 17,758 | ||||||
Change in unrealized gain on available-for-sale securities | (51,852 | ) | 17,450 | |||||
Other comprehensive income (loss) | (47,954 | ) | 33,848 | |||||
Income tax expense (benefit) related to other comprehensive income | (17,403 | ) | 12,333 | |||||
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax | (30,551 | ) | 21,515 | |||||
TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE INCOME | $ | 59,433 | $ | 124,019 | ||||
The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements as they relate to FirstEnergy Solutions Corp. are an | ||||||||
integral part of these statements. | ||||||||
42
FIRSTENERGY SOLUTIONS CORP. | ||||||||
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS | ||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||
March 31, | December 31, | |||||||
2008 | 2007 | |||||||
(In thousands) | ||||||||
ASSETS | ||||||||
CURRENT ASSETS: | ||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 2 | $ | 2 | ||||
Receivables- | ||||||||
Customers (less accumulated provisions of $6,988,000 and | ||||||||
$8,072,000, respectively, for uncollectible accounts) | 125,116 | 133,846 | ||||||
Associated companies | 317,740 | 376,499 | ||||||
Other (less accumulated provisions of $2,500,000 and $9,000, | ||||||||
respectively, for uncollectible accounts) | 2,224 | 3,823 | ||||||
Notes receivable from associated companies | 737,387 | 92,784 | ||||||
Materials and supplies, at average cost | 474,625 | 427,015 | ||||||
Prepayments and other | 135,734 | 92,340 | ||||||
1,792,828 | 1,126,309 | |||||||
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT: | ||||||||
In service | 8,703,760 | 8,294,768 | ||||||
Less - Accumulated provision for depreciation | 4,032,545 | 3,892,013 | ||||||
4,671,215 | 4,402,755 | |||||||
Construction work in progress | 1,058,080 | 761,701 | ||||||
5,729,295 | 5,164,456 | |||||||
OTHER PROPERTY AND INVESTMENTS: | ||||||||
Nuclear plant decommissioning trusts | 1,263,338 | 1,332,913 | ||||||
Long-term notes receivable from associated companies | 62,900 | 62,900 | ||||||
Other | 24,388 | 40,004 | ||||||
1,350,626 | 1,435,817 | |||||||
DEFERRED CHARGES AND OTHER ASSETS: | ||||||||
Accumulated deferred income tax benefits | 256,983 | 276,923 | ||||||
Lease assignment receivable from associated companies | 67,256 | 215,258 | ||||||
Goodwill | 24,248 | 24,248 | ||||||
Property taxes | 47,774 | 47,774 | ||||||
Pension assets | 16,070 | 16,723 | ||||||
Unamortized sale and leaseback costs | 85,695 | 70,803 | ||||||
Other | 34,819 | 43,953 | ||||||
532,845 | 695,682 | |||||||
$ | 9,405,594 | $ | 8,422,264 | |||||
LIABILITIES AND CAPITALIZATION | ||||||||
CURRENT LIABILITIES: | ||||||||
Currently payable long-term debt | $ | 1,608,456 | $ | 1,441,196 | ||||
Short-term borrowings- | ||||||||
Associated companies | 1,145,959 | 264,064 | ||||||
Other | 700,000 | 300,000 | ||||||
Accounts payable- | ||||||||
Associated companies | 405,668 | 445,264 | ||||||
Other | 185,704 | 177,121 | ||||||
Accrued taxes | 142,834 | 171,451 | ||||||
Other | 248,106 | 237,806 | ||||||
4,436,727 | 3,036,902 | |||||||
CAPITALIZATION: | ||||||||
Common stockholder's equity - | ||||||||
Common stock, without par value, authorized 750 shares- | ||||||||
7 shares outstanding | 1,161,473 | 1,164,922 | ||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive income | 110,103 | 140,654 | ||||||
Retained earnings | 1,188,639 | 1,108,655 | ||||||
Total common stockholder's equity | 2,460,215 | 2,414,231 | ||||||
Long-term debt and other long-term obligations | 77,956 | 533,712 | ||||||
2,538,171 | �� | 2,947,943 | ||||||
NONCURRENT LIABILITIES: | ||||||||
Deferred gain on sale and leaseback transaction | 1,051,871 | 1,060,119 | ||||||
Accumulated deferred investment tax credits | 59,969 | 61,116 | ||||||
Asset retirement obligations | 823,686 | 810,114 | ||||||
Retirement benefits | 65,348 | 63,136 | ||||||
Property taxes | 48,095 | 48,095 | ||||||
Lease market valuation liability | 341,881 | 353,210 | ||||||
Other | 39,846 | 41,629 | ||||||
2,430,696 | 2,437,419 | |||||||
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Note 10) | ||||||||
$ | 9,405,594 | $ | 8,422,264 | |||||
The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements as they related to FirstEnergy Solutions Corp. are an | ||||||||
integral part of these balance sheets. |
43
FIRSTENERGY SOLUTIONS CORP. | ||||||||
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS | ||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||
Three Months Ended | ||||||||
March 31, | ||||||||
2008 | 2007 | |||||||
(In thousands) | ||||||||
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||
Net income | $ | 89,984 | $ | 102,504 | ||||
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash from operating activities- | ||||||||
Provision for depreciation | 49,742 | 48,010 | ||||||
Nuclear fuel and lease amortization | 25,426 | 26,437 | ||||||
Deferred rents and lease market valuation liability | (34,887 | ) | - | |||||
Deferred income taxes and investment tax credits, net | 30,781 | 21,210 | ||||||
Investment impairment | 14,943 | 4,169 | ||||||
Accrued compensation and retirement benefits | (11,042 | ) | (8,297 | ) | ||||
Commodity derivative transactions, net | 8,086 | 537 | ||||||
Gain on asset sales | (4,964 | ) | - | |||||
Cash collateral, net | 1,601 | 1,384 | ||||||
Pension trust contribution | - | (64,020 | ) | |||||
Decrease (increase) in operating assets: | ||||||||
Receivables | 69,533 | (62,940 | ) | |||||
Materials and supplies | (12,948 | ) | 10,580 | |||||
Prepayments and other current assets | (12,260 | ) | (1,440 | ) | ||||
Increase (decrease) in operating liabilities: | ||||||||
Accounts payable | (17,149 | ) | 213,484 | |||||
Accrued taxes | (28,652 | ) | (2,913 | ) | ||||
Accrued interest | (728 | ) | 2,930 | |||||
Other | (7,514 | ) | 6,694 | |||||
Net cash provided from operating activities | 159,952 | 298,329 | ||||||
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||
New Financing- | ||||||||
Equity contribution from parent | - | 700,000 | ||||||
Short-term borrowings, net | 1,281,896 | 197,731 | ||||||
Redemptions and Repayments- | ||||||||
Long-term debt | (288,603 | ) | (745,444 | ) | ||||
Common stock dividend payments | (10,000 | ) | - | |||||
Net cash provided from financing activities | 983,293 | 152,287 | ||||||
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||
Property additions | (476,529 | ) | (117,506 | ) | ||||
Proceeds from asset sales | 5,088 | - | ||||||
Sales of investment securities held in trusts | 173,123 | 178,632 | ||||||
Purchases of investment securities held in trusts | (181,079 | ) | (188,076 | ) | ||||
Loans to associated companies, net | (644,604 | ) | (319,898 | ) | ||||
Other | (19,244 | ) | (3,768 | ) | ||||
Net cash used for investing activities | (1,143,245 | ) | (450,616 | ) | ||||
Net change in cash and cash equivalents | - | - | ||||||
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period | 2 | 2 | ||||||
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period | $ | 2 | $ | 2 | ||||
The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements as they relate to FirstEnergy Solutions Corp. are an integral part of | ||||||||
these statements. |
44
OHIO EDISON COMPANY
MANAGEMENT’S NARRATIVE |
ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS |
OE is a wholly owned electric utility subsidiary of FirstEnergy. OE and its wholly owned subsidiary, Penn, conduct business in portions of Ohio and Pennsylvania, providing regulated electric distribution services. They provide generation services to those customers electing to retain OE and Penn as their power supplier. OE’s power supply requirements are provided by FES – an affiliated company. Penn purchases power from FES and third-party suppliers through a competitive RFP process.
Results of Operations
In the first three months of 2008, net income decreased to $44 million from $54 million in the same period of 2007. The decrease primarily resulted from higher operating costs, a decrease in the deferral of new regulatory assets and lower investment income, partially offset by higher electric sales revenues.
Revenues
Revenues increased by $27 million, or 4.3%, in the first three months of 2008 compared with the same period in 2007, primarily due to increases in retail generation revenues ($17 million) and distribution throughput revenues ($12 million).
Retail generation revenues increased primarily due to higher average prices across all customer classes, partially offset by decreased KWH sales to commercial and industrial customers. The higher average prices included the 2008 fuel cost recovery rider that became effective January 16, 2008 (see “Regulatory Matters – Ohio” within the Combined Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Registrant Subsidiaries). Weather conditions in the first three months of 2008 compared to the same period in 2007 contributed to the higher KWH sales to residential customers (heating degree days increased 2.8% and 0.7% in OE’s and Penn’s service territories, respectively). Commercial and industrial retail generation KWH sales were lower due to increased customer shopping in Penn’s service territory in the first quarter of 2008 compared to the same period last year.
Changes in retail generation sales and revenues in the first three months of 2008 from the same period in 2007 are summarized in the following tables:
Retail Generation KWH Sales | Increase (Decrease) | |||
Residential | 1.0 | % | ||
Commercial | (2.5 | )% | ||
Industrial | (4.1 | )% | ||
Net Decrease in Generation Sales | (1.5 | )% |
Retail Generation Revenues | Increase | |||
(In millions) | ||||
Residential | $ | 11 | ||
Commercial | 1 | |||
Industrial | 5 | |||
Increase in Generation Revenues | $ | 17 |
Revenues from distribution throughput increased by $12 million in the first three months of 2008 compared to the same period in 2007 due to higher average unit prices for all customer classes and higher KWH deliveries to residential and commercial customers. The higher average prices resulted from a transmission rider increase effective July 1, 2007. The higher KWH deliveries to residential and commercial customers reflected the favorable weather conditions described above.
45
Changes in distribution KWH deliveries and revenues in the first three months of 2008 from the same period in 2007 are summarized in the following tables.
Distribution KWH Deliveries | Increase (Decrease) | |||
Residential | 1.7 | % | ||
Commercial | 1.2 | % | ||
Industrial | (0.8 | )% | ||
Net Increase in Distribution Deliveries | 0.7 | % |
Distribution Revenues | Increase | |||
(In millions) | ||||
Residential | $ | 6 | ||
Commercial | 4 | |||
Industrial | 2 | |||
Increase in Distribution Revenues | $ | 12 |
Expenses
Total expenses increased by $15 million in the first three months of 2008 from the same period of 2007. The following table presents changes from the prior year by expense category.
Expenses – Changes | Increase (Decrease) | |||
(In millions) | ||||
Purchased power costs | $ | (10 | ) | |
Nuclear operating costs | 1 | |||
Other operating costs | 6 | |||
Provision for depreciation | 3 | |||
Amortization of regulatory assets | 3 | |||
Deferral of new regulatory assets | 11 | |||
General taxes | 1 | |||
Net Increase in Expenses | $ | 15 |
Lower purchased power costs in the first three months of 2008 primarily reflected the lower retail generation KWH sales in Penn’s service territory described above, partially offset by higher unit prices as provided for under OE’s PSA with FES. The increase in other operating costs for the first three months of 2008 was primarily due to higher transmission expenses related to MISO operations. Higher depreciation expense in the first three months of 2008 reflected capital additions subsequent to the first quarter of 2007. Higher amortization of regulatory assets in the first three months of 2008 was primarily due to increased amortization of MISO transmission deferrals. The decrease in the deferral of new regulatory assets for the first three months of 2008 was primarily due to lower MISO costs deferred in excess of transmission revenues and lower RCP fuel and distribution cost deferrals.
Other Income
Other income decreased $12 million in the first three months of 2008 as compared with the same period of 2007 primarily due to reductions in interest income on notes receivable resulting from principal payments from associated companies since the first quarter of 2007.
Income Taxes
In the first quarter of 2007, OE’s income taxes included an immaterial adjustment applicable to prior periods of $7.2 million related to an inter-company federal tax allocation arrangement between FirstEnergy and its subsidiaries.
Legal Proceedings
See the “Regulatory Matters,” “Environmental Matters” and “Other Legal Proceedings” sections within the Combined Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Registrant Subsidiaries for discussion of other legal proceedings applicable to OE.
New Accounting Standards and Interpretations
See the “New Accounting Standards and Interpretations” section within the Combined Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Registrant Subsidiaries for discussion of new accounting standards and interpretations applicable to OE.
46
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Stockholder and Board of
Directors of Ohio Edison Company:
We have reviewed the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of Ohio Edison Company and its subsidiaries as of March 31, 2008 and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income and cash flows for each of the three-month periods ended March 31, 2008 and 2007. These interim financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management.
We conducted our review in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). A review of interim financial information consists principally of applying analytical procedures and making inquiries of persons responsible for financial and accounting matters. It is substantially less in scope than an audit conducted in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the objective of which is the expression of an opinion regarding the financial statements taken as a whole. Accordingly, we do not express such an opinion.
Based on our review, we are not aware of any material modifications that should be made to the accompanying consolidated interim financial statements for them to be in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
We previously audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2007, and the related consolidated statements of income, capitalization, common stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for the year then ended (not presented herein), and in our report (which contained references to the Company’s change in its method of accounting for uncertain tax positions as of January 1, 2007, defined benefit pension and other postretirement plans as of December 31, 2006 and conditional asset retirement obligations as of December 31, 2005, as discussed in Note 8, Note 4, Note 2(G) and Note 11 to the consolidated financial statements) dated February 28, 2008, we expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements. In our opinion, the information set forth in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet information as of December 31, 2007, is fairly stated in all material respects in relation to the consolidated balance sheet from which it has been derived.
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP Cleveland, Ohio May 7, 2008 |
47
OHIO EDISON COMPANY | ||||||||
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME | ||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||
Three Months Ended | ||||||||
March 31, | ||||||||
2008 | 2007 | |||||||
(In thousands) | ||||||||
REVENUES: | ||||||||
Electric sales | $ | 622,271 | $ | 594,344 | ||||
Excise tax collections | 30,378 | 31,254 | ||||||
Total revenues | 652,649 | 625,598 | ||||||
EXPENSES: | ||||||||
Fuel | 3,170 | 3,015 | ||||||
Purchased power | 340,186 | 349,852 | ||||||
Nuclear operating costs | 43,021 | 41,514 | ||||||
Other operating costs | 94,135 | 88,486 | ||||||
Provision for depreciation | 21,493 | 18,848 | ||||||
Amortization of regulatory assets | 48,538 | 45,417 | ||||||
Deferral of new regulatory assets | (25,411 | ) | (36,649 | ) | ||||
General taxes | 50,453 | 49,745 | ||||||
Total expenses | 575,585 | 560,228 | ||||||
OPERATING INCOME | 77,064 | 65,370 | ||||||
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE): | ||||||||
Investment income | 15,055 | 26,630 | ||||||
Miscellaneous income (expense) | (3,806 | ) | 373 | |||||
Interest expense | (17,641 | ) | (21,022 | ) | ||||
Capitalized interest | 110 | 110 | ||||||
Total other income (expense) | (6,282 | ) | 6,091 | |||||
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES | 70,782 | 71,461 | ||||||
INCOME TAXES | 26,873 | 17,426 | ||||||
NET INCOME | 43,909 | 54,035 | ||||||
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS): | ||||||||
Pension and other postretirement benefits | (3,994 | ) | (3,423 | ) | ||||
Change in unrealized gain on available-for-sale securities | (7,571 | ) | (126 | ) | ||||
Other comprehensive loss | (11,565 | ) | (3,549 | ) | ||||
Income tax benefit related to other comprehensive loss | (4,262 | ) | (1,503 | ) | ||||
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax | (7,303 | ) | (2,046 | ) | ||||
TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE INCOME | $ | 36,606 | $ | 51,989 | ||||
The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements as they relate to Ohio Edison Company are an integral part | ||||||||
of these statements. |
48
OHIO EDISON COMPANY | ||||||||
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS | ||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||
March 31, | December 31, | |||||||
2008 | 2007 | |||||||
(In thousands) | ||||||||
ASSETS | ||||||||
CURRENT ASSETS: | ||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 732 | $ | 732 | ||||
Receivables- | ||||||||
Customers (less accumulated provisions of $7,870,000 and $8,032,000, | ||||||||
respectively, for uncollectible accounts) | 266,360 | 248,990 | ||||||
Associated companies | 179,875 | 185,437 | ||||||
Other (less accumulated provisions of $5,638,000 and $5,639,000, | ||||||||
respectively, for uncollectible accounts) | 16,474 | 12,395 | ||||||
Notes receivable from associated companies | 589,790 | 595,859 | ||||||
Prepayments and other | 17,785 | 10,341 | ||||||
1,071,016 | 1,053,754 | |||||||
UTILITY PLANT: | ||||||||
In service | 2,804,505 | 2,769,880 | ||||||
Less - Accumulated provision for depreciation | 1,106,174 | 1,090,862 | ||||||
1,698,331 | 1,679,018 | |||||||
Construction work in progress | 60,617 | 50,061 | ||||||
1,758,948 | 1,729,079 | |||||||
OTHER PROPERTY AND INVESTMENTS: | ||||||||
Long-term notes receivable from associated companies | 258,405 | 258,870 | ||||||
Investment in lease obligation bonds | 253,747 | 253,894 | ||||||
Nuclear plant decommissioning trusts | 119,948 | 127,252 | ||||||
Other | 33,014 | 36,037 | ||||||
665,114 | 676,053 | |||||||
DEFERRED CHARGES AND OTHER ASSETS: | ||||||||
Regulatory assets | 709,969 | 737,326 | ||||||
Pension assets | 235,933 | 228,518 | ||||||
Property taxes | 65,520 | 65,520 | ||||||
Unamortized sale and leaseback costs | 43,882 | 45,133 | ||||||
Other | 44,640 | 48,075 | ||||||
1,099,944 | 1,124,572 | |||||||
$ | 4,595,022 | $ | 4,583,458 | |||||
LIABILITIES AND CAPITALIZATION | ||||||||
CURRENT LIABILITIES: | ||||||||
Currently payable long-term debt | $ | 334,656 | $ | 333,224 | ||||
Short-term borrowings- | ||||||||
Associated companies | 50,692 | 50,692 | ||||||
Other | 2,609 | 2,609 | ||||||
Accounts payable- | ||||||||
Associated companies | 155,654 | 174,088 | ||||||
Other | 19,376 | 19,881 | ||||||
Accrued taxes | 93,390 | 89,571 | ||||||
Accrued interest | 16,459 | 22,378 | ||||||
Other | 99,532 | 65,163 | ||||||
772,368 | 757,606 | |||||||
CAPITALIZATION: | ||||||||
Common stockholder's equity- | ||||||||
Common stock, without par value, authorized 175,000,000 shares - | ||||||||
60 shares outstanding | 1,220,368 | 1,220,512 | ||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive income | 41,083 | 48,386 | ||||||
Retained earnings | 351,186 | 307,277 | ||||||
Total common stockholder's equity | 1,612,637 | 1,576,175 | ||||||
Long-term debt and other long-term obligations | 839,107 | 840,591 | ||||||
2,451,744 | 2,416,766 | |||||||
NONCURRENT LIABILITIES: | ||||||||
Accumulated deferred income taxes | 783,777 | 781,012 | ||||||
Accumulated deferred investment tax credits | 15,990 | 16,964 | ||||||
Asset retirement obligations | 95,009 | 93,571 | ||||||
Retirement benefits | 176,597 | 178,343 | ||||||
Deferred revenues - electric service programs | 36,821 | 46,849 | ||||||
Other | 262,716 | 292,347 | ||||||
1,370,910 | 1,409,086 | |||||||
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Note 10) | ||||||||
$ | 4,595,022 | $ | 4,583,458 | |||||
The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements as they relate to Ohio Edison Company are an integral part | ||||||||
of these balance sheets. |
49
OHIO EDISON COMPANY | ||||||||
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS | ||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||
Three Months Ended | ||||||||
March 31, | ||||||||
2008 | 2007 | |||||||
(In thousands) | ||||||||
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||
Net income | $ | 43,909 | $ | 54,035 | ||||
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash from operating activities- | ||||||||
Provision for depreciation | 21,493 | 18,848 | ||||||
Amortization of regulatory assets | 48,538 | 45,417 | ||||||
Deferral of new regulatory assets | (25,411 | ) | (36,649 | ) | ||||
Amortization of lease costs | 32,934 | 32,934 | ||||||
Deferred income taxes and investment tax credits, net | 6,866 | (3,992 | ) | |||||
Accrued compensation and retirement benefits | (19,482 | ) | (16,794 | ) | ||||
Pension trust contribution | - | (20,261 | ) | |||||
Increase in operating assets- | ||||||||
Receivables | (27,496 | ) | (102,469 | ) | ||||
Prepayments and other current assets | (7,451 | ) | (6,339 | ) | ||||
Increase (decrease) in operating liabilities- | ||||||||
Accounts payable | (18,939 | ) | 42,095 | |||||
Accrued taxes | 2,991 | (46,791 | ) | |||||
Accrued interest | (5,919 | ) | (6,812 | ) | ||||
Electric service prepayment programs | (10,028 | ) | (9,053 | ) | ||||
Other | (2,066 | ) | (3,283 | ) | ||||
Net cash provided from (used for) operating activities | 39,939 | (59,114 | ) | |||||
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||
New Financing- | ||||||||
Short-term borrowings, net | - | 77,473 | ||||||
Redemptions and Repayments- | ||||||||
Common stock | - | (500,000 | ) | |||||
Long-term debt | (80 | ) | (72 | ) | ||||
Net cash used for financing activities | (80 | ) | (422,599 | ) | ||||
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||
Property additions | (49,011 | ) | (29,888 | ) | ||||
Sales of investment securities held in trusts | 62,344 | 12,951 | ||||||
Purchases of investment securities held in trusts | (63,797 | ) | (13,805 | ) | ||||
Loan repayments from associated companies, net | 6,534 | 511,082 | ||||||
Cash investments | 147 | 168 | ||||||
Other | 3,924 | 1,187 | ||||||
Net cash provided from (used for) investing activities | (39,859 | ) | 481,695 | |||||
Net change in cash and cash equivalents | - | (18 | ) | |||||
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period | 732 | 712 | ||||||
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period | $ | 732 | $ | 694 | ||||
The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements as they relate to Ohio Edison Company are an integral part | ||||||||
of these statements. |
50
THE CLEVELAND ELECTRIC ILLUMINATING COMPANY
MANAGEMENT’S NARRATIVE |
ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS |
CEI is a wholly owned, electric utility subsidiary of FirstEnergy. CEI conducts business in northeastern Ohio, providing regulated electric distribution services. CEI also provides generation services to those customers electing to retain CEI as their power supplier. CEI’s power supply requirements are primarily provided by FES – an affiliated company.
Results of Operations
Net income in the first three months of 2008 decreased to $58 million from $64 million in the same period of 2007. The decrease resulted primarily from higher purchased power costs, increased amortization of regulatory assets and lower investment income, partially offset by the elimination of fuel costs (due to assigning leasehold interests in generating assets to FGCO) and decreases in other operating expenses.
Revenues
Revenues decreased by $4 million, or 1%, in the first three months of 2008 compared to the same period of 2007 primarily due to a decrease in wholesale generation revenues ($32 million), partially offset by an increase in retail generation revenues ($18 million) and distribution revenues ($10 million).
Wholesale generation revenues decreased due to the assignment of CEI’s leasehold interests in the Bruce Mansfield Plant to FGCO on October 16, 2007. Prior to the assignment, CEI sold power from its interests in the plant to FGCO.
Retail generation revenues increased in the first three months of 2008 due to higher average unit prices across all customer classes and increased sales volume to residential and commercial customers compared to the same period of 2007. The higher average unit prices included the 2008 fuel cost recovery rider that became effective January 16, 2008 (see “Regulatory Matters – Ohio” within the Combined Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Registrant Subsidiaries). More weather-related usage in the first three months of 2008 compared to the same period of 2007 primarily contributed to the increased sales volume in the residential and commercial sectors (heating degree days increased 1.7% from the same period in 2007).
Increases in retail generation sales and revenues in the first three months of 2008 compared to the same period in 2007 are summarized in the following tables:
Retail Generation KWH Sales | Increase | |||
Residential | 3.0 | % | ||
Commercial | 1.8 | % | ||
Industrial | 1.0 | % | ||
Increase in Retail Generation Sales | 1.8 | % |
Retail Generation Revenues | Increase | |||
(in millions) | ||||
Residential | $ | 7 | ||
Commercial | 4 | |||
Industrial | 7 | |||
Increase in Generation Revenues | $ | 18 |
Revenues from distribution throughput increased by $10 million in the first three months of 2008 compared to the same period of 2007 primarily due higher average unit prices for all customer classes and higher KWH deliveries to residential and commercial customers. The higher average unit prices resulted from a transmission rider increase effective July 1, 2007. The higher KWH deliveries to residential and commercial customers in the first three months of 2008 reflected the weather impacts described above.
51
Changes in distribution KWH deliveries and revenues in the first three months of 2008 compared to the corresponding period of 2007 are summarized in the following tables.
Distribution KWH Deliveries | Increase | |||
Residential | 3.0 | % | ||
Commercial | 1.3 | % | ||
Industrial | 1.0 | % | ||
Increase in Distribution Deliveries | 1.7 | % |
Distribution Revenues | Increase | |||
(In millions) | ||||
Residential | $ | 4 | ||
Commercial | 3 | |||
Industrial | 3 | |||
Net Increase in Distribution Revenues | $ | 10 |
Expenses
Total expenses increased by $1 million in the first three months of 2008 compared to the same period of 2007. The following table presents the change from the prior year by expense category:
Expenses - Changes | Increase (Decrease) | |||
(in millions) | ||||
Fuel costs | $ | (13 | ) | |
Purchased power costs | 13 | |||
Other operating costs | (10 | ) | ||
Amortization of regulatory assets | 5 | |||
Deferral of new regulatory assets | 5 | |||
General taxes | 1 | |||
Net Increase in Expenses | $ | 1 |
The absence of fuel costs in the first three months of 2008 was due to the assignment of CEI’s leasehold interests in the Mansfield Plant to FGCO on October 16, 2007. Prior to the assignment, CEI incurred fuel expenses related to its leasehold interest in the plant. Higher purchased power costs primarily reflected higher unit prices, as provided for under the PSA with FES. Other operating costs were lower primarily due to the assignment of CEI’s leasehold interests in the Mansfield plant. Higher amortization of regulatory assets were primarily due to increased transition cost amortization due to the higher KWH sales discussed above and increases related to the effective interest methodology. The change in deferrals of new regulatory assets was primarily due to lower deferred MISO expenses (more expenses currently recovered through increased transmission tariffs) and RCP fuel costs (implementation of fuel cost recovery rider). The change in general taxes is primarily due to higher real and personal property taxes.
Other Expense
Other expense increased by $5 million in the first three months of 2008 compared to the same period of 2007 primarily due to lower investment income, partially offset by a reduction in interest expense. Lower investment income is primarily the result of principal repayments since the first quarter of 2007 on notes receivable from associated companies. The lower interest expense is due to long-term debt redemptions ($489 million) since the first quarter of 2007, partially offset by a debt issuance in the first quarter of 2007 ($250 million).
Legal Proceedings
See the “Regulatory Matters,” “Environmental Matters” and “Other Legal Proceedings” sections within the Combined Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Registrant Subsidiaries for discussion of legal proceedings applicable to CEI.
New Accounting Standards and Interpretations
See the “New Accounting Standards and Interpretations” section within the Combined Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Registrant Subsidiaries for discussion of new accounting standards and interpretations applicable to CEI.
52
.
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Stockholder and Board of Directors of
The Cleveland Electric Illuminating Company:
We have reviewed the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of The Cleveland Electric Illuminating Company and its subsidiaries as of March 31, 2008 and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income and cash flows for each of the three-month periods ended March 31, 2008 and 2007. These interim financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management.
We conducted our review in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). A review of interim financial information consists principally of applying analytical procedures and making inquiries of persons responsible for financial and accounting matters. It is substantially less in scope than an audit conducted in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the objective of which is the expression of an opinion regarding the financial statements taken as a whole. Accordingly, we do not express such an opinion.
Based on our review, we are not aware of any material modifications that should be made to the accompanying consolidated interim financial statements for them to be in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
We previously audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2007, and the related consolidated statements of income, capitalization, common stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for the year then ended (not presented herein), and in our report (which contained references to the Company’s change in its method of accounting for uncertain tax positions as of January 1, 2007, defined benefit pension and other postretirement plans as of December 31, 2006 and conditional asset retirement obligations as of December 31, 2005, as discussed in Note 8, Note 4, Note 2(G) and Note 11 to the consolidated financial statements) dated February 28, 2008, we expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements. In our opinion, the information set forth in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet information as of December 31, 2007, is fairly stated in all material respects in relation to the consolidated balance sheet from which it has been derived.
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP Cleveland, Ohio May 7, 2008 |
53
THE CLEVELAND ELECTRIC ILLUMINATING COMPANY | ||||||||
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME | ||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||
Three Months Ended | ||||||||
March 31, | ||||||||
2008 | 2007 | |||||||
(In thousands) | ||||||||
REVENUES: | ||||||||
Electric sales | $ | 418,708 | $ | 422,805 | ||||
Excise tax collections | 18,600 | 18,027 | ||||||
Total revenues | 437,308 | 440,832 | ||||||
EXPENSES: | ||||||||
Fuel | - | 13,191 | ||||||
Purchased power | 193,244 | 180,657 | ||||||
Other operating costs | 65,118 | 74,951 | ||||||
Provision for depreciation | 19,076 | 18,468 | ||||||
Amortization of regulatory assets | 38,256 | 33,129 | ||||||
Deferral of new regulatory assets | (29,248 | ) | (33,957 | ) | ||||
General taxes | 40,083 | 38,894 | ||||||
Total expenses | 326,529 | 325,333 | ||||||
OPERATING INCOME | 110,779 | 115,499 | ||||||
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE): | ||||||||
Investment income | 9,188 | 17,687 | ||||||
Miscellaneous income | 534 | 731 | ||||||
Interest expense | (32,520 | ) | (35,740 | ) | ||||
Capitalized interest | 196 | 205 | ||||||
Total other expense | (22,602 | ) | (17,117 | ) | ||||
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES | 88,177 | 98,382 | ||||||
INCOME TAXES | 30,326 | 34,833 | ||||||
NET INCOME | 57,851 | 63,549 | ||||||
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS): | ||||||||
Pension and other postretirement benefits | (213 | ) | 1,202 | |||||
Income tax expense related to other comprehensive income | 281 | 355 | ||||||
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax | (494 | ) | 847 | |||||
TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE INCOME | $ | 57,357 | $ | 64,396 | ||||
The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements as they relate to The Cleveland Electric Illuminating | ||||||||
Company are an integral part of these statements. |
54
THE CLEVELAND ELECTRIC ILLUMINATING COMPANY | ||||||||
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS | ||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||
March 31, | December 31, | |||||||
2008 | 2007 | |||||||
(In thousands) | ||||||||
ASSETS | ||||||||
CURRENT ASSETS: | ||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 241 | $ | 232 | ||||
Receivables- | ||||||||
Customers (less accumulated provisions of $7,224,000 and $7,540,000, | 266,701 | 251,000 | ||||||
respectively, for uncollectible accounts) | ||||||||
Associated companies | 70,727 | 166,587 | ||||||
Other | 3,643 | 12,184 | ||||||
Notes receivable from associated companies | 54,679 | 52,306 | ||||||
Prepayments and other | 1,728 | 2,327 | ||||||
397,719 | 484,636 | |||||||
UTILITY PLANT: | ||||||||
In service | 2,142,458 | 2,256,956 | ||||||
Less - Accumulated provision for depreciation | 827,160 | 872,801 | ||||||
1,315,298 | 1,384,155 | |||||||
Construction work in progress | 40,834 | 41,163 | ||||||
1,356,132 | 1,425,318 | |||||||
OTHER PROPERTY AND INVESTMENTS: | ||||||||
Investment in lessor notes | 425,722 | 463,431 | ||||||
Other | 10,275 | 10,285 | ||||||
435,997 | 473,716 | |||||||
DEFERRED CHARGES AND OTHER ASSETS: | ||||||||
Goodwill | 1,688,521 | 1,688,521 | ||||||
Regulatory assets | 853,716 | 870,695 | ||||||
Pension assets | 64,497 | 62,471 | ||||||
Property taxes | 76,000 | 76,000 | ||||||
Other | 32,735 | 32,987 | ||||||
2,715,469 | 2,730,674 | |||||||
$ | 4,905,317 | $ | 5,114,344 | |||||
LIABILITIES AND CAPITALIZATION | ||||||||
CURRENT LIABILITIES: | ||||||||
Currently payable long-term debt | $ | 207,281 | $ | 207,266 | ||||
Short-term borrowings- | ||||||||
Associated companies | 365,816 | 531,943 | ||||||
Accounts payable- | ||||||||
Associated companies | 139,423 | 169,187 | ||||||
Other | 6,169 | 5,295 | ||||||
Accrued taxes | 118,102 | 94,991 | ||||||
Accrued interest | 37,726 | 13,895 | ||||||
Other | 35,044 | 34,350 | ||||||
909,561 | 1,056,927 | |||||||
CAPITALIZATION: | ||||||||
Common stockholder's equity | ||||||||
Common stock, without par value, authorized 105,000,000 shares - | ||||||||
67,930,743 shares outstanding | 873,353 | 873,536 | ||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive loss | (69,623 | ) | (69,129 | ) | ||||
Retained earnings | 743,278 | 685,428 | ||||||
Total common stockholder's equity | 1,547,008 | 1,489,835 | ||||||
Long-term debt and other long-term obligations | 1,447,980 | 1,459,939 | ||||||
2,994,988 | 2,949,774 | |||||||
NONCURRENT LIABILITIES: | ||||||||
Accumulated deferred income taxes | 719,938 | 725,523 | ||||||
Accumulated deferred investment tax credits | 18,102 | 18,567 | ||||||
Retirement benefits | 94,322 | 93,456 | ||||||
Deferred revenues - electric service programs | 21,297 | 27,145 | ||||||
Lease assignment payable to associated companies | 38,420 | 131,773 | ||||||
Other | 108,689 | 111,179 | ||||||
1,000,768 | 1,107,643 | |||||||
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Note 10) | ||||||||
$ | 4,905,317 | $ | 5,114,344 | |||||
The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements as they relate to The Cleveland Electric Illuminating | ||||||||
Company are an integral part of these balance sheets. |
55
THE CLEVELAND ELECTRIC ILLUMINATING COMPANY | ||||||||
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS | ||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||
Three Months Ended | ||||||||
March 31, | ||||||||
2008 | 2007 | |||||||
(In thousands) | ||||||||
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||
Net income | $ | 57,851 | $ | 63,549 | ||||
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash from operating activities- | ||||||||
Provision for depreciation | 19,076 | 18,468 | ||||||
Amortization of regulatory assets | 38,256 | 33,129 | ||||||
Deferral of new regulatory assets | (29,248 | ) | (33,957 | ) | ||||
Deferred rents and lease market valuation liability | - | (46,528 | ) | |||||
Deferred income taxes and investment tax credits, net | (4,965 | ) | (5,453 | ) | ||||
Accrued compensation and retirement benefits | (3,507 | ) | (890 | ) | ||||
Pension trust contribution | - | (24,800 | ) | |||||
Decrease in operating assets- | ||||||||
Receivables | 90,280 | 224,011 | ||||||
Prepayments and other current assets | 604 | 592 | ||||||
Increase (decrease) in operating liabilities- | ||||||||
Accounts payable | (28,889 | ) | (256,808 | ) | ||||
Accrued taxes | 23,196 | 13,959 | ||||||
Accrued interest | 23,831 | 18,122 | ||||||
Electric service prepayment programs | (5,847 | ) | (5,313 | ) | ||||
Other | (63 | ) | (167 | ) | ||||
Net cash provided from (used for) operating activities | 180,575 | (2,086 | ) | |||||
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||
New Financing- | ||||||||
Long-term debt | - | 247,715 | ||||||
Redemptions and Repayments- | ||||||||
Long-term debt | (165 | ) | (150 | ) | ||||
Short-term borrowings, net | (177,960 | ) | (130,585 | ) | ||||
Dividend Payments- | ||||||||
Common stock | - | (24,000 | ) | |||||
Net cash provided from (used for) financing activities | (178,125 | ) | 92,980 | |||||
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||
Property additions | (37,203 | ) | (36,682 | ) | ||||
Loans to associated companies, net | (2,373 | ) | (231,907 | ) | ||||
Collection of principal on long-term notes receivable | - | 133,341 | ||||||
Redemptions of lessor notes | 37,709 | 35,614 | ||||||
Other | (574 | ) | 9,294 | |||||
Net cash used for investing activities | (2,441 | ) | (90,340 | ) | ||||
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents | 9 | 554 | ||||||
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period | 232 | 221 | ||||||
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period | $ | 241 | $ | 775 | ||||
The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements as they relate to The Cleveland Electric Illuminating | ||||||||
Company are an integral part of these statements. |
56
THE TOLEDO EDISON COMPANY
MANAGEMENT’S NARRATIVE |
ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS |
TE is a wholly owned electric utility subsidiary of FirstEnergy. TE conducts business in northwestern Ohio, providing regulated electric distribution services. TE also provides generation services to those customers electing to retain TE as their power supplier. TE’s power supply requirements are provided by FES – an affiliated company.
Results of Operations
Net income in the first three months of 2008 decreased to $17 million from $26 million in the same period of 2007. The decrease resulted primarily from lower electric sales revenues, higher purchased power costs and a decrease in the deferral of new regulatory assets, partially offset by lower fuel, nuclear and other operating costs.
Revenues
Revenues decreased $29 million, or 12%, in the first three months of 2008 compared to the same period of 2007 primarily due to lower wholesale generation revenues ($45 million), partially offset by increased retail generation revenues ($11 million) and distribution revenues ($4 million).
The decrease in wholesale revenues resulted primarily from the termination of TE’s Beaver Valley Unit 2 sale agreement with CEI at the end of 2007 ($26 million) and lower PSA sales to FES in the first three months of 2008 ($20 million) due to the assignment of TE’s leasehold interests in the Bruce Mansfield Plant to FGCO effective October 16, 2007. In 2008, TE is selling the 158 MW entitlement from its 18.26% leasehold interest in Beaver Valley Unit 2 to NGC.
Retail generation revenues increased in the first three months of 2008 due to higher average prices across all customer classes and increased KWH sales to residential and commercial customers compared to the same period of 2007. Industrial KWH sales decreased due in part to a maintenance outage for a large industrial customer during the first quarter of 2008. The higher average prices included the 2008 fuel cost recovery rider that became effective January 16, 2008 (see “Regulatory Matters – Ohio” within the Combined Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Registrant Subsidiaries). The increase in sales volume reflects increased weather-related usage in the first three months of 2008 (heating degree days increased 3.3% from the same period of 2007).
Changes in retail electric generation KWH sales and revenues in the first three months of 2008 from the same period of 2007 are summarized in the following tables.
Increase | ||||
Retail Generation KWH Sales | (Decrease) | |||
Residential | 4.4 | % | ||
Commercial | 5.6 | % | ||
Industrial | (4.3 | )% | ||
Net Decrease in Retail Generation Sales | (0.1 | )% |
Retail Generation Revenues | Increase | |||
(In millions) | ||||
Residential | $ | 4 | ||
Commercial | 3 | |||
Industrial | 4 | |||
Increase in Retail Generation Revenues | $ | 11 |
Revenues from distribution throughput increased by $4 million in the first three months of 2008 compared to the same period in 2007 due to higher average unit prices for all customer classes and higher KWH deliveries to residential and commercial customers. The higher average prices resulted from a transmission rider increase effective July 1, 2007. The higher KWH deliveries to residential and commercial customers in the first three months of 2008 reflected the weather impacts described above.
57
Changes in distribution KWH deliveries and revenues in the first three months of 2008 from the same period of 2007 are summarized in the following tables.
Increase | ||||
Distribution KWH Deliveries | (Decrease) | |||
Residential | 3.6 | % | ||
Commercial | 2.3 | % | ||
Industrial | (4.0 | )% | ||
Net Decrease in Distribution Deliveries | (0.4 | )% |
Distribution Revenues | Increase (Decrease) | |||
(In millions) | ||||
Residential | $ | 3 | ||
Commercial | 2 | |||
Industrial | (1 | ) | ||
Net Increase in Distribution Revenues | $ | 4 |
Expenses
Total expenses decreased $15 million in the first three months of 2008 from the same period of 2007. The following table presents changes from the prior year by expense category.
Expenses – Changes | Increase (Decrease) | |||
(In millions) | ||||
Fuel costs | $ | (9 | ) | |
Purchased power costs | 5 | |||
Nuclear operating costs | (7 | ) | ||
Other operating costs | (10 | ) | ||
Amortization of regulatory assets | 1 | |||
Deferral of new regulatory assets | 4 | |||
General taxes | 1 | |||
Net Decrease in Expenses | $ | (15 | ) |
Lower fuel costs in the first three months of 2008 compared to the same period of 2007 were due to the assignment of TE’s leasehold interests in the Mansfield Plant to FGCO in October 2007. Higher purchased power costs reflected higher unit prices as provided for under the PSA with FES and a 1.8% increase in KWH purchases. Nuclear operating expenses decreased primarily due to the reversal ($8 million) of the above-market lease liability associated with TE’s leasehold interest in Beaver Valley Unit 2 related to the termination of the CEI sale agreement discussed above. Other operating costs were lower primarily due to the assignment of TE’s leasehold interests in the Mansfield Plant ($9 million). The change in the deferral of new regulatory assets was primarily due to lower deferred RCP distribution costs ($3 million) and fuel costs ($1 million).
Other Expense
Other expense decreased $2 million in the first three months of 2008 compared to the same period of 2007 primarily due to lower interest expense, partially offset by lower investment income. The lower interest expense resulted from the redemption of long-term debt ($85 million principal amount) since the first quarter of 2007. The decrease in investment income resulted primarily from the principal repayments since the first quarter of 2007 on notes receivable from associated companies.
Legal Proceedings
See the “Regulatory Matters,” “Environmental Matters” and “Other Legal Proceedings” sections within the Combined Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Registrant Subsidiaries for discussion of legal proceedings applicable to TE.
New Accounting Standards and Interpretations
See the “New Accounting Standards and Interpretations” section within the Combined Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Registrant Subsidiaries for discussion of new accounting standards and interpretations applicable to TE.
.
58
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Stockholder and Board of
Directors of The Toledo Edison Company:
We have reviewed the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of The Toledo Edison Company and its subsidiary as of March 31, 2008 and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income and cash flows for each of the three-month periods ended March 31, 2008 and 2007. These interim financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management.
We conducted our review in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). A review of interim financial information consists principally of applying analytical procedures and making inquiries of persons responsible for financial and accounting matters. It is substantially less in scope than an audit conducted in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the objective of which is the expression of an opinion regarding the financial statements taken as a whole. Accordingly, we do not express such an opinion.
Based on our review, we are not aware of any material modifications that should be made to the accompanying consolidated interim financial statements for them to be in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
We previously audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2007, and the related consolidated statements of income, capitalization, common stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for the year then ended (not presented herein), and in our report (which contained references to the Company’s change in its method of accounting for uncertain tax positions as of January 1, 2007 and defined benefit pension and other postretirement plans as of December 31, 2006, as discussed in Note 8 and Note 4 to the consolidated financial statements) dated February 28, 2008, we expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements. In our opinion, the information set forth in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet information as of December 31, 2007, is fairly stated in all material respects in relation to the consolidated balance sheet from which it has been derived.
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP Cleveland, Ohio May 7, 2008 |
59
THE TOLEDO EDISON COMPANY | ||||||||
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME | ||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||
Three Months Ended | ||||||||
March 31, | ||||||||
2008 | 2007 | |||||||
(In thousands) | ||||||||
REVENUES: | ||||||||
Electric sales | $ | 203,669 | $ | 233,056 | ||||
Excise tax collections | 8,025 | 7,400 | ||||||
Total revenues | 211,694 | 240,456 | ||||||
EXPENSES: | ||||||||
Fuel | 1,482 | 10,147 | ||||||
Purchased power | 101,298 | 96,169 | ||||||
Nuclear operating costs | 10,457 | 17,721 | ||||||
Other operating costs | 33,390 | 42,921 | ||||||
Provision for depreciation | 9,025 | 9,117 | ||||||
Amortization of regulatory assets | 25,025 | 23,876 | ||||||
Deferral of new regulatory assets | (9,494 | ) | (13,481 | ) | ||||
General taxes | 14,377 | 13,734 | ||||||
Total expenses | 185,560 | 200,204 | ||||||
OPERATING INCOME | 26,134 | 40,252 | ||||||
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE): | ||||||||
Investment income | 6,481 | 7,225 | ||||||
Miscellaneous expense | (1,514 | ) | (3,100 | ) | ||||
Interest expense | (6,035 | ) | (7,503 | ) | ||||
Capitalized interest | 37 | 83 | ||||||
Total other expense | (1,031 | ) | (3,295 | ) | ||||
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES | 25,103 | 36,957 | ||||||
INCOME TAXES | 8,088 | 11,097 | ||||||
NET INCOME | 17,015 | 25,860 | ||||||
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS): | ||||||||
Pension and other postretirement benefits | (63 | ) | 573 | |||||
Change in unrealized gain on available-for-sale securities | 1,961 | 379 | ||||||
Other comprehensive income | 1,898 | 952 | ||||||
Income tax expense related to other comprehensive income | 728 | 334 | ||||||
Other comprehensive income, net of tax | 1,170 | 618 | ||||||
TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE INCOME | $ | 18,185 | $ | 26,478 | ||||
The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements as they relate to The Toledo Edison Company | ||||||||
are an integral part of these statements. |
60
THE TOLEDO EDISON COMPANY | ||||||||
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS | ||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||
March 31, | December 31, | |||||||
2008 | 2007 | |||||||
(In thousands) | ||||||||
ASSETS | ||||||||
CURRENT ASSETS: | ||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 213 | $ | 22 | ||||
Receivables- | ||||||||
Customers | 966 | 449 | ||||||
Associated companies | 42,232 | 88,796 | ||||||
Other (less accumulated provisions of $471,000 and $615,000, | ||||||||
respectively, for uncollectible accounts) | 4,241 | 3,116 | ||||||
Notes receivable from associated companies | 107,664 | 154,380 | ||||||
Prepayments and other | 684 | 865 | ||||||
156,000 | 247,628 | |||||||
UTILITY PLANT: | ||||||||
In service | 854,457 | 931,263 | ||||||
Less - Accumulated provision for depreciation | 397,670 | 420,445 | ||||||
456,787 | 510,818 | |||||||
Construction work in progress | 28,735 | 19,740 | ||||||
485,522 | 530,558 | |||||||
OTHER PROPERTY AND INVESTMENTS: | ||||||||
Investment in lessor notes | 142,657 | 154,646 | ||||||
Long-term notes receivable from associated companies | 37,457 | 37,530 | ||||||
Nuclear plant decommissioning trusts | 69,491 | 66,759 | ||||||
Other | 1,734 | 1,756 | ||||||
251,339 | 260,691 | |||||||
DEFERRED CHARGES AND OTHER ASSETS: | ||||||||
Goodwill | 500,576 | 500,576 | ||||||
Regulatory assets | 187,579 | 203,719 | ||||||
Pension assets | 29,420 | 28,601 | ||||||
Property taxes | 21,010 | 21,010 | ||||||
Other | 28,959 | 20,496 | ||||||
767,544 | 774,402 | |||||||
$ | 1,660,405 | $ | 1,813,279 | |||||
LIABILITIES AND CAPITALIZATION | ||||||||
CURRENT LIABILITIES: | ||||||||
Currently payable long-term debt | $ | 34 | $ | 34 | ||||
Accounts payable- | ||||||||
Associated companies | 56,448 | 245,215 | ||||||
Other | 3,973 | 4,449 | ||||||
Notes payable to associated companies | 66,217 | 13,396 | ||||||
Accrued taxes | 37,085 | 30,245 | ||||||
Lease market valuation liability | 36,900 | 36,900 | ||||||
Other | 51,563 | 22,747 | ||||||
252,220 | 352,986 | |||||||
CAPITALIZATION: | ||||||||
Common stockholder's equity- | ||||||||
Common stock, $5 par value, authorized 60,000,000 shares - | ||||||||
29,402,054 shares outstanding | 147,010 | 147,010 | ||||||
Other paid-in capital | 173,141 | 173,169 | ||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive loss | (9,436 | ) | (10,606 | ) | ||||
Retained earnings | 192,633 | 175,618 | ||||||
Total common stockholder's equity | 503,348 | 485,191 | ||||||
Long-term debt and other long-term obligations | 303,392 | 303,397 | ||||||
806,740 | 788,588 | |||||||
NONCURRENT LIABILITIES: | ||||||||
Accumulated deferred income taxes | 99,732 | 103,463 | ||||||
Accumulated deferred investment tax credits | 9,967 | 10,180 | ||||||
Lease market valuation liability | 300,775 | 310,000 | ||||||
Retirement benefits | 64,422 | 63,215 | ||||||
Asset retirement obligations | 28,744 | 28,366 | ||||||
Deferred revenues - electric service programs | 9,969 | 12,639 | ||||||
Lease assignment payable to associated companies | 28,835 | 83,485 | ||||||
Other | 59,001 | 60,357 | ||||||
601,445 | 671,705 | |||||||
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Note 10) | ||||||||
$ | 1,660,405 | $ | 1,813,279 | |||||
The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements as they relate to The Toledo Edison Company | ||||||||
are an integral part of these balance sheets. |
61
THE TOLEDO EDISON COMPANY | ||||||||
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS | ||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||
Three Months Ended | ||||||||
March 31, | ||||||||
2008 | 2007 | |||||||
(In thousands) | ||||||||
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||
Net income | $ | 17,015 | $ | 25,860 | ||||
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash from operating activities- | ||||||||
Provision for depreciation | 9,025 | 9,117 | ||||||
Amortization of regulatory assets | 25,025 | 23,876 | ||||||
Deferral of new regulatory assets | (9,494 | ) | (13,481 | ) | ||||
Deferred rents and lease market valuation liability | 6,099 | (10,891 | ) | |||||
Deferred income taxes and investment tax credits, net | (3,404 | ) | (3,639 | ) | ||||
Accrued compensation and retirement benefits | (1,813 | ) | (756 | ) | ||||
Pension trust contribution | - | (7,659 | ) | |||||
Decrease in operating assets- | ||||||||
Receivables | 45,738 | 158 | ||||||
Prepayments and other current assets | 181 | 312 | ||||||
Increase (decrease) in operating liabilities- | ||||||||
Accounts payable | (189,243 | ) | (17,533 | ) | ||||
Accrued taxes | 6,840 | 9,379 | ||||||
Accrued interest | 4,663 | 3,951 | ||||||
Electric service prepayment programs | (2,670 | ) | (2,616 | ) | ||||
Other | 991 | (541 | ) | |||||
Net cash provided from (used for) operating activities | (91,047 | ) | 15,537 | |||||
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||
New Financing- | ||||||||
Short-term borrowings, net | 52,821 | - | ||||||
Redemptions and Repayments- | ||||||||
Long-term debt | (9 | ) | - | |||||
Short-term borrowings, net | - | (46,518 | ) | |||||
Net cash provided from (used for) financing activities | 52,812 | (46,518 | ) | |||||
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||
Property additions | (19,435 | ) | (6,064 | ) | ||||
Loans repayments from (loans to) associated companies, net | 46,789 | (8,583 | ) | |||||
Collection of principal on long-term notes receivable | - | 32,202 | ||||||
Redemption of lessor notes | 11,989 | 14,804 | ||||||
Sales of investment securities held in trusts | 3,908 | 16,863 | ||||||
Purchases of investment securities held in trusts | (4,715 | ) | (17,642 | ) | ||||
Other | (110 | ) | (420 | ) | ||||
Net cash provided from investing activities | 38,426 | 31,160 | ||||||
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents | 191 | 179 | ||||||
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period | 22 | 22 | ||||||
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period | $ | 213 | $ | 201 | ||||
The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements as they relate to The Toledo Edison Company are an | ||||||||
integral part of these statements. |
62
JERSEY CENTRAL POWER & LIGHT COMPANY
MANAGEMENT’S NARRATIVE
ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
JCP&L is a wholly owned, electric utility subsidiary of FirstEnergy. JCP&L conducts business in New Jersey, providing regulated electric transmission and distribution services. JCP&L also provides generation services to those customers electing to retain JCP&L as their power supplier.
Results of Operations
Net income for the first three months of 2008 decreased to $34 million from $38 million in the same period in 2007. The decrease was primarily due to higher other operating costs, partially offset by higher non-generation revenues.
Revenues
In the first three months of 2008, revenues increased $111 million, or 16.5%, as compared with the same period of 2007. Retail and wholesale generation revenues increased by $73 million and $38 million, respectively, in the first three months of 2008.
Retail generation revenues from all customer classes increased in the first three months of 2008 compared to the same period of 2007 due to higher unit prices resulting from the BGS auction effective June 1, 2007, partially offset by a slight decrease in retail generation KWH sales. Sales volume decreased primarily due to milder weather in the first three months of 2008 (heating degree days were 6.7% lower than the first three months of 2007) and an increase in customer shopping in the commercial and industrial customer sectors by 3.6 percentage points and 3.0 percentage points, respectively.
Wholesale generation revenues increased $38 million in the first three months of 2008 due to higher market prices, partially offset by a slight decrease in sales volumes as compared to the first three months of 2007.
Changes in retail generation KWH sales and revenues by customer class in the first three months of 2008 compared to the same period of 2007 are summarized in the following tables:
Retail Generation KWH Sales | Increase (Decrease) | |||
Residential | 0.1 | % | ||
Commercial | (3.4 | )% | ||
Industrial | (12.4 | )% | ||
Net Decrease in Generation Sales | (1.9 | )% |
Retail Generation Revenues | Increase | |||
(In millions) | ||||
Residential | $ | 43 | ||
Commercial | 28 | |||
Industrial | 2 | |||
Increase in Generation Revenues | $ | 73 |
Distribution revenues increased in the first three months of 2008 as compared to the same period of 2007 due to slight increases in composite unit prices and KWH deliveries.
Changes in distribution KWH deliveries in the first three months of 2008 compared to the same period in 2007 are summarized in the following table:
Increase | |||||
Distribution KWH Deliveries | (Decrease) | ||||
Residential | 0.1 | % | |||
Commercial | 1.2 | % | |||
Industrial | (1.3 | )% | |||
Net Increase in Distribution Deliveries | 0.4 | % |
63
Expenses
Total expenses increased by $113 million in the first three months of 2008 as compared to the same period of 2007. The following table presents changes from the prior year period by expense category:
Expenses - Changes | Increase (Decrease) | ||||
(In millions) | |||||
Purchased power costs | $ | 110 | |||
Other operating costs | 4 | ||||
Provision for depreciation | 3 | ||||
Amortization of regulatory assets | (4 | ) | |||
Net increase in expenses | $ | 113 |
Purchased power costs increased in the first three months of 2008 primarily due to higher unit prices resulting from the BGS auction effective June 1, 2007, partially offset by a decrease in purchases due to the lower KWH sales discussed above. Other operating costs increased in the first three months of 2008 primarily due to higher expenses related to JCP&L’s customer assistance programs. Depreciation expense increased primarily due to an increase in depreciable property since the first quarter of 2007. Amortization of regulatory assets decreased in the first three months of 2008 primarily due to the completion in December 2007 of certain regulatory asset amortizations associated with TMI-2.
Other Expenses
Other expenses increased by $6 million in the first three months of 2008 as compared to the same period in 2007 primarily due to interest expense associated with JCP&L’s $550 million issuance of senior notes in May 2007 ($3 million) and reduced income on life insurance investments ($2 million).
Sale of Investment
On April 17, 2008, JCP&L closed on the sale of its 86-MW Forked River Power Plant to Maxim Power Corp. for $20 million. In conjunction with this sale, FES entered into a 10-year tolling agreement with Maxim for the entire capacity of the plant. The sale is subject to regulatory accounting and will not have a material impact on the JCP&L’s earnings in the second quarter of 2008. The New Jersey Rate Counsel has appealed the NJBPU’s approval of the sale to the Appellate Division of the Superior Court of New Jersey, where it is currently pending.
Legal Proceedings
See the “Regulatory Matters,” “Environmental Matters” and “Other Legal Proceedings” sections within the Combined Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Registrant Subsidiaries for discussion of other legal proceedings applicable to JCP&L.
New Accounting Standards and Interpretations
See the “New Accounting Standards and Interpretations” section within the Combined Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Registrant Subsidiaries for discussion of new accounting standards and interpretations applicable to JCP&L.
64
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Stockholder and Board of
Directors of Jersey Central Power & Light Company:
We have reviewed the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of Jersey Central Power & Light Company and its subsidiaries as of March 31, 2008 and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income and cash flows for each of the three-month periods ended March 31, 2008 and 2007. These interim financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management.
We conducted our review in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). A review of interim financial information consists principally of applying analytical procedures and making inquiries of persons responsible for financial and accounting matters. It is substantially less in scope than an audit conducted in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the objective of which is the expression of an opinion regarding the financial statements taken as a whole. Accordingly, we do not express such an opinion.
Based on our review, we are not aware of any material modifications that should be made to the accompanying consolidated interim financial statements for them to be in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
We previously audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2007, and the related consolidated statements of income, capitalization, common stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for the year then ended (not presented herein), and in our report (which contained references to the Company’s change in its method of accounting for uncertain tax positions as of January 1, 2007 and defined benefit pension and other postretirement plans as of December 31, 2006, as discussed in Note 8 and Note 4 to the consolidated financial statements) dated February 28, 2008, we expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements. In our opinion, the information set forth in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet information as of December 31, 2007, is fairly stated in all material respects in relation to the consolidated balance sheet from which it has been derived.
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP Cleveland, Ohio May 7, 2008 |
65
JERSEY CENTRAL POWER & LIGHT COMPANY | ||||||||
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME | ||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||
Three Months Ended | ||||||||
March 31, | ||||||||
2008 | 2007 | |||||||
(In thousands) | ||||||||
REVENUES: | ||||||||
Electric sales | $ | 781,433 | $ | 670,907 | ||||
Excise tax collections | 12,795 | 12,836 | ||||||
Total revenues | 794,228 | 683,743 | ||||||
EXPENSES: | ||||||||
Purchased power | 496,681 | 386,497 | ||||||
Other operating costs | 78,784 | 74,651 | ||||||
Provision for depreciation | 23,282 | 20,516 | ||||||
Amortization of regulatory assets | 91,519 | 95,228 | ||||||
General taxes | 17,028 | 16,999 | ||||||
Total expenses | 707,294 | 593,891 | ||||||
OPERATING INCOME | 86,934 | 89,852 | ||||||
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE): | ||||||||
Miscellaneous income (expense) | (389 | ) | 3,061 | |||||
Interest expense | (24,464 | ) | (22,416 | ) | ||||
Capitalized interest | 276 | 513 | ||||||
Total other expense | (24,577 | ) | (18,842 | ) | ||||
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES | 62,357 | 71,010 | ||||||
INCOME TAXES | 28,403 | 32,664 | ||||||
NET INCOME | 33,954 | 38,346 | ||||||
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS): | ||||||||
Pension and other postretirement benefits | (3,449 | ) | (2,115 | ) | ||||
Unrealized gain on derivative hedges | 69 | 97 | ||||||
Other comprehensive loss | (3,380 | ) | (2,018 | ) | ||||
Income tax benefit related to other comprehensive loss | (1,470 | ) | (984 | ) | ||||
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax | (1,910 | ) | (1,034 | ) | ||||
TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE INCOME | $ | 32,044 | $ | 37,312 | ||||
The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements as they relate to Jersey Central Power & Light Company | ||||||||
are an integral part of these statements. |
66
JERSEY CENTRAL POWER & LIGHT COMPANY | ||||||||
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS | ||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||
March 31, | December 31, | |||||||
2008 | 2007 | |||||||
(In thousands) | ||||||||
ASSETS | ||||||||
CURRENT ASSETS: | ||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 40 | $ | 94 | ||||
Receivables- | ||||||||
Customers (less accumulated provisions of $3,400,000 and $3,691,000, | ||||||||
respectively, for uncollectible accounts) | 299,104 | 321,026 | ||||||
Associated companies | 1,757 | 21,297 | ||||||
Other | 53,553 | 59,244 | ||||||
Notes receivable - associated companies | 18,410 | 18,428 | ||||||
Prepaid taxes | 1,302 | 1,012 | ||||||
Other | 20,609 | 17,603 | ||||||
394,775 | 438,704 | |||||||
UTILITY PLANT: | ||||||||
In service | 4,208,016 | 4,175,125 | ||||||
Less - Accumulated provision for depreciation | 1,524,495 | 1,516,997 | ||||||
2,683,521 | 2,658,128 | |||||||
Construction work in progress | 98,143 | 90,508 | ||||||
2,781,664 | 2,748,636 | |||||||
OTHER PROPERTY AND INVESTMENTS: | ||||||||
Nuclear fuel disposal trust | 176,107 | 176,512 | ||||||
Nuclear plant decommissioning trusts | 168,056 | 175,869 | ||||||
Other | 2,054 | 2,083 | ||||||
346,217 | 354,464 | |||||||
DEFERRED CHARGES AND OTHER ASSETS: | ||||||||
Regulatory assets | 1,475,802 | 1,595,662 | ||||||
Goodwill | 1,825,716 | 1,826,190 | ||||||
Pension assets | 106,211 | 100,615 | ||||||
Other | 15,107 | 16,307 | ||||||
3,422,836 | 3,538,774 | |||||||
$ | 6,945,492 | $ | 7,080,578 | |||||
LIABILITIES AND CAPITALIZATION | ||||||||
CURRENT LIABILITIES: | ||||||||
Currently payable long-term debt | $ | 27,735 | $ | 27,206 | ||||
Short-term borrowings- | ||||||||
Associated companies | 82,380 | 130,381 | ||||||
Accounts payable- | ||||||||
Associated companies | 18,699 | 7,541 | ||||||
Other | 168,178 | 193,848 | ||||||
Accrued taxes | 32,968 | 3,124 | ||||||
Accrued interest | 26,656 | 9,318 | ||||||
Other | 107,879 | 103,286 | ||||||
464,495 | 474,704 | |||||||
CAPITALIZATION: | ||||||||
Common stockholder's equity- | ||||||||
Common stock, $10 par value, authorized 16,000,000 shares- | ||||||||
14,421,637 shares outstanding | 144,216 | 144,216 | ||||||
Other paid-in capital | 2,655,248 | 2,655,941 | ||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive loss | (21,791 | ) | (19,881 | ) | ||||
Retained earnings | 201,542 | 237,588 | ||||||
Total common stockholder's equity | 2,979,215 | 3,017,864 | ||||||
Long-term debt and other long-term obligations | 1,554,064 | 1,560,310 | ||||||
4,533,279 | 4,578,174 | |||||||
NONCURRENT LIABILITIES: | ||||||||
Power purchase contract loss liability | 682,481 | 749,671 | ||||||
Accumulated deferred income taxes | 798,967 | 800,214 | ||||||
Nuclear fuel disposal costs | 194,034 | 192,402 | ||||||
Asset retirement obligations | 91,025 | 89,669 | ||||||
Other | 181,211 | 195,744 | ||||||
1,947,718 | 2,027,700 | |||||||
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Note 10) | ||||||||
$ | 6,945,492 | $ | 7,080,578 | |||||
The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements as they relate to Jersey Central Power & Light Company | ||||||||
are an integral part of these balance sheets. |
67
JERSEY CENTRAL POWER & LIGHT COMPANY | ||||||||
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS | ||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||
Three Months Ended | ||||||||
March 31, | ||||||||
2008 | 2007 | |||||||
(In thousands) | ||||||||
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||
Net income | $ | 33,954 | $ | 38,346 | ||||
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash from operating activities- | ||||||||
Provision for depreciation | 23,282 | 20,516 | ||||||
Amortization of regulatory assets | 91,519 | 95,228 | ||||||
Deferred purchased power and other costs | (40,293 | ) | (78,303 | ) | ||||
Deferred income taxes and investment tax credits, net | 723 | 8,076 | ||||||
Accrued compensation and retirement benefits | (15,113 | ) | (8,374 | ) | ||||
Cash collateral from (returned to) suppliers | (502 | ) | 1 | |||||
Pension trust contribution | - | (17,800 | ) | |||||
Decrease (increase) in operating assets: | ||||||||
Receivables | 48,733 | (23,381 | ) | |||||
Materials and supplies | 255 | (1 | ) | |||||
Prepaid taxes | (290 | ) | 11,946 | |||||
Other current assets | (1,305 | ) | 454 | |||||
Increase (decrease) in operating liabilities: | ||||||||
Accounts payable | (14,511 | ) | (62,038 | ) | ||||
Accrued taxes | 29,844 | 31,599 | ||||||
Accrued interest | 17,338 | 9,794 | ||||||
Other | 13,302 | (555 | ) | |||||
Net cash provided from operating activities | 186,936 | 25,508 | ||||||
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||
New Financing- | ||||||||
Short-term borrowings, net | - | 37,071 | ||||||
Redemptions and Repayments- | ||||||||
Long-term debt | (5,872 | ) | (9,569 | ) | ||||
Short-term borrowings, net | (48,069 | ) | - | |||||
Dividend Payments- | ||||||||
Common stock | (70,000 | ) | (15,000 | ) | ||||
Net cash provided from (used for) financing activities | (123,941 | ) | 12,502 | |||||
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||
Property additions | (56,047 | ) | (40,015 | ) | ||||
Loan repayments from associated companies, net | 18 | 532 | ||||||
Sales of investment securities held in trusts | 56,506 | 26,436 | ||||||
Purchases of investment securities held in trusts | (61,290 | ) | (30,437 | ) | ||||
Other | (2,236 | ) | 5,479 | |||||
Net cash used for investing activities | (63,049 | ) | (38,005 | ) | ||||
Net change in cash and cash equivalents | (54 | ) | 5 | |||||
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period | 94 | 41 | ||||||
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period | $ | 40 | $ | 46 | ||||
The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements as they relate to Jersey Central Power & Light Company | ||||||||
are an integral part of these statements. |
68
METROPOLITAN EDISON COMPANY
MANAGEMENT’S NARRATIVE |
ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS |
Met-Ed is a wholly owned electric utility subsidiary of FirstEnergy. Met-Ed conducts business in eastern Pennsylvania, providing regulated electric transmission and distribution services. Met-Ed also provides generation service to those customers electing to retain Met-Ed as their power supplier.
Results of Operations
Net income decreased to $22 million in the first quarter of 2008, compared to $32 million in the same period of 2007. The decrease was primarily due to higher purchased power costs, increased other operating costs and a decrease in the deferral of new regulatory assets, partially offset by higher revenues.
Revenues
Revenues increased by $30 million, or 8.1%, in the first quarter of 2008, compared to the same period of 2007, primarily due to higher retail and wholesale generation revenues combined with higher distribution throughput revenues, partially offset by a decrease in PJM transmission revenues.
In the first quarter of 2008, retail generation revenues increased $6 million primarily due to higher KWH sales to the residential and commercial customer classes and higher composite unit prices in all customer classes, partially offset by lower KWH sales to the industrial customer class.
Changes in retail generation sales and revenues in the first quarter of 2008 compared to the same period of 2007 are summarized in the following tables:
Increase | ||||
Retail Generation KWH Sales | (Decrease) | |||
Residential | 4.6 | % | ||
Commercial | 4.1 | % | ||
Industrial | (1.8 | )% | ||
Net Increase in Retail Generation Sales | 2.7 | % |
Increase | ||||
Retail Generation Revenues | (Decrease) | |||
(In millions) | ||||
Residential | $ | 4 | ||
Commercial | 3 | |||
Industrial | (1 | ) | ||
Net Increase in Retail Generation Revenues | $ | 6 |
Wholesale revenues increased by $27 million in the first quarter of 2008, compared to the same period of 2007, primarily reflecting higher spot market prices for PJM market participants.
Revenues from distribution throughput increased $4 million in the first quarter of 2008, compared to the same period in 2007, due to higher KWH deliveries in the residential and commercial customer classes, partially offset by decreased KWH deliveries to industrial customers.
Changes in distribution KWH deliveries and revenues in the first quarter of 2008 compared to the same period of 2007 are summarized in the following tables:
69
Increase | ||||
Distribution KWH Deliveries | (Decrease) | |||
Residential | 4.6 | % | ||
Commercial | 4.1 | % | ||
Industrial | (1.8 | )% | ||
Net Increase in Distribution Deliveries | 2.7 | % |
Distribution Revenues | Increase | |||
(In millions) | ||||
Residential | $ | 1 | ||
Commercial | 3 | |||
Industrial | - | |||
Increase in Distribution Revenues | $ | 4 |
PJM transmission revenues decreased by $7 million in the first quarter of 2008 compared to the same period of 2007, primarily due to decreased PJM FTR revenue. Met-Ed defers the difference between revenue from its transmission rider and transmission costs incurred, resulting in no material effect to current period earnings.
Operating Expenses
Total operating expenses increased by $42 million in the first quarter of 2008 compared to the same period of 2007. The following table presents changes from the prior year by expense category:
Expenses – Changes | Increase | |||
(In millions) | ||||
Purchased power costs | $ | 25 | ||
Other operating costs | 9 | |||
Provision for depreciation | 1 | |||
Amortization of regulatory assets | 1 | |||
Deferral of new regulatory assets | 5 | |||
General taxes | 1 | |||
Increase in expenses | $ | 42 |
Purchased power costs increased by $25 million in the first quarter of 2008, primarily due to higher composite unit prices combined with increased KWH purchased to source increased generation sales. Other operating costs increased by $9 million in the first quarter of 2008 primarily due to higher transmission expenses associated with increased transmission volumes and increased labor and contractor service expenses for storm restoration work performed during the first quarter of 2008.
The deferral of new regulatory assets decreased in the first quarter of 2008 primarily due to the absence of the 2007 deferral of decommissioning costs ($15 million) associated with the Saxton nuclear research facility (see Note 11(C)), partially offset by increased transmission cost deferrals.
Other Expense
Other expense increased in the first quarter of 2008 primarily due to a decrease in interest earned on regulatory assets, reflecting a lower regulatory asset base, combined with an increase in other expenses, primarily due to reduced income from life insurance investments.
Legal Proceedings
See the “Regulatory Matters,” “Environmental Matters” and “Other Legal Proceedings” sections within the Combined Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Registrant Subsidiaries for discussion of legal proceedings applicable to Met-Ed.
New Accounting Standards and Interpretations
See the “New Accounting Standards and Interpretations” section within the Combined Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Registrant Subsidiaries for discussion of new accounting standards and interpretations applicable to Met-Ed.
70
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Stockholder and Board of
Directors of Metropolitan Edison Company:
We have reviewed the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of Metropolitan Edison Company and its subsidiaries as of March 31, 2008 and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income and cash flows for each of the three-month periods ended March 31, 2008 and 2007. These interim financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management.
We conducted our review in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). A review of interim financial information consists principally of applying analytical procedures and making inquiries of persons responsible for financial and accounting matters. It is substantially less in scope than an audit conducted in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the objective of which is the expression of an opinion regarding the financial statements taken as a whole. Accordingly, we do not express such an opinion.
Based on our review, we are not aware of any material modifications that should be made to the accompanying consolidated interim financial statements for them to be in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
We previously audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2007, and the related consolidated statements of income, capitalization, common stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for the year then ended (not presented herein), and in our report (which contained references to the Company’s change in its method of accounting for uncertain tax positions as of January 1, 2007, defined benefit pension and other postretirement plans as of December 31, 2006 and conditional asset retirement obligations as of December 31, 2005, as discussed in Note 8, Note 4, Note 2(G) and Note 11 to the consolidated financial statements) dated February 28, 2008, we expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements. In our opinion, the information set forth in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet information as of December 31, 2007, is fairly stated in all material respects in relation to the consolidated balance sheet from which it has been derived.
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP Cleveland, Ohio May 7, 2008 |
71
METROPOLITAN EDISON COMPANY | ||||||||
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME | ||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||
Three Months Ended | ||||||||
March 31, | ||||||||
2008 | 2007 | |||||||
(In thousands) | ||||||||
REVENUES: | ||||||||
Electric sales | $ | 379,608 | $ | 352,136 | ||||
Gross receipts tax collections | 20,718 | 18,120 | ||||||
Total revenues | 400,326 | 370,256 | ||||||
EXPENSES: | ||||||||
Purchased power | 216,982 | 191,589 | ||||||
Other operating costs | 107,017 | 98,018 | ||||||
Provision for depreciation | 11,112 | 10,284 | ||||||
Amortization of regulatory assets | 35,575 | 34,140 | ||||||
Deferral of new regulatory assets | (37,772 | ) | (42,726 | ) | ||||
General taxes | 21,781 | 21,052 | ||||||
Total expenses | 354,695 | 312,357 | ||||||
OPERATING INCOME | 45,631 | 57,899 | ||||||
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE): | ||||||||
Interest income | 5,479 | 7,726 | ||||||
Miscellaneous income (expense) | (309 | ) | 1,109 | |||||
Interest expense | (11,672 | ) | (11,756 | ) | ||||
Capitalized interest | (219 | ) | 260 | |||||
Total other expense | (6,721 | ) | (2,661 | ) | ||||
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES | 38,910 | 55,238 | ||||||
INCOME TAXES | 16,675 | 23,599 | ||||||
NET INCOME | 22,235 | 31,639 | ||||||
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS): | ||||||||
Pension and other postretirement benefits | (2,233 | ) | (1,452 | ) | ||||
Unrealized gain on derivative hedges | 84 | 84 | ||||||
Other comprehensive loss | (2,149 | ) | (1,368 | ) | ||||
Income tax benefit related to other comprehensive loss | (970 | ) | (692 | ) | ||||
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax | (1,179 | ) | (676 | ) | ||||
TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE INCOME | $ | 21,056 | $ | 30,963 | ||||
The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements as they relate to Metropolitan Edison Company | ||||||||
are an integral part of these statements. |
72
METROPOLITAN EDISON COMPANY | ||||||||
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS | ||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||
March 31, | December 31, | |||||||
2008 | 2007 | |||||||
(In thousands) | ||||||||
ASSETS | ||||||||
CURRENT ASSETS: | ||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 132 | $ | 135 | ||||
Receivables- | ||||||||
Customers (less accumulated provisions of $4,483,000 and $4,327,000, | ||||||||
respectively, for uncollectible accounts) | 144,865 | 142,872 | ||||||
Associated companies | 55,776 | 27,693 | ||||||
Other | 20,673 | 18,909 | ||||||
Notes receivable from associated companies | 12,828 | 12,574 | ||||||
Prepaid taxes | 56,202 | 14,615 | ||||||
Other | 850 | 1,348 | ||||||
291,326 | 218,146 | |||||||
UTILITY PLANT: | ||||||||
In service | 1,997,131 | 1,972,388 | ||||||
Less - Accumulated provision for depreciation | 758,228 | 751,795 | ||||||
1,238,903 | 1,220,593 | |||||||
Construction work in progress | 32,946 | 30,594 | ||||||
1,271,849 | 1,251,187 | |||||||
OTHER PROPERTY AND INVESTMENTS: | ||||||||
Nuclear plant decommissioning trusts | 271,771 | 286,831 | ||||||
Other | 1,377 | 1,360 | ||||||
273,148 | 288,191 | |||||||
DEFERRED CHARGES AND OTHER ASSETS: | ||||||||
Goodwill | 424,070 | 424,313 | ||||||
Regulatory assets | 530,006 | 494,947 | ||||||
Pension assets | 54,198 | 51,427 | ||||||
Other | 31,097 | 36,411 | ||||||
1,039,371 | 1,007,098 | |||||||
$ | 2,875,694 | $ | 2,764,622 | |||||
LIABILITIES AND CAPITALIZATION | ||||||||
CURRENT LIABILITIES: | ||||||||
Short-term borrowings- | ||||||||
Associated companies | $ | 167,070 | $ | 185,327 | ||||
Other | 250,000 | 100,000 | ||||||
Accounts payable- | ||||||||
Associated companies | 25,556 | 29,855 | ||||||
Other | 56,797 | 66,694 | ||||||
Accrued taxes | 1,501 | 16,020 | ||||||
Accrued interest | 7,059 | 6,778 | ||||||
Other | 25,191 | 27,393 | ||||||
533,174 | 432,067 | |||||||
CAPITALIZATION: | ||||||||
Common stockholder's equity- | ||||||||
Common stock, without par value, authorized 900,000 shares- | ||||||||
859,000 shares outstanding | 1,202,833 | 1,203,186 | ||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive loss | (16,576 | ) | (15,397 | ) | ||||
Accumulated deficit | (116,922 | ) | (139,157 | ) | ||||
Total common stockholder's equity | 1,069,335 | 1,048,632 | ||||||
Long-term debt and other long-term obligations | 513,661 | 542,130 | ||||||
1,582,996 | 1,590,762 | |||||||
NONCURRENT LIABILITIES: | ||||||||
Accumulated deferred income taxes | 456,126 | 438,890 | ||||||
Accumulated deferred investment tax credits | 8,234 | 8,390 | ||||||
Nuclear fuel disposal costs | 43,831 | 43,462 | ||||||
Asset retirement obligations | 163,239 | 160,726 | ||||||
Retirement benefits | 7,621 | 8,681 | ||||||
Other | 80,473 | 81,644 | ||||||
759,524 | 741,793 | |||||||
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Note 10) | ||||||||
$ | 2,875,694 | $ | 2,764,622 | |||||
The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements as they relate to Metropolitan Edison Company are an integral | ||||||||
part of these balance sheets. |
73
METROPOLITAN EDISON COMPANY | ||||||||
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS | ||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||
Three Months Ended | ||||||||
March 31, | ||||||||
2008 | 2007 | |||||||
(In thousands) | ||||||||
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||
Net income | $ | 22,235 | $ | 31,639 | ||||
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash from operating activities- | ||||||||
Provision for depreciation | 11,112 | 10,284 | ||||||
Amortization of regulatory assets | 35,575 | 34,140 | ||||||
Deferred costs recoverable as regulatory assets | (10,628 | ) | (19,160 | ) | ||||
Deferral of new regulatory assets | (37,772 | ) | (42,726 | ) | ||||
Deferred income taxes and investment tax credits, net | 17,307 | 16,178 | ||||||
Accrued compensation and retirement benefits | (9,655 | ) | (7,683 | ) | ||||
Cash collateral | - | 3,050 | ||||||
Pension trust contribution | - | (11,012 | ) | |||||
Increase in operating assets- | ||||||||
Receivables | (30,863 | ) | (49,818 | ) | ||||
Prepayments and other current assets | (41,088 | ) | (27,131 | ) | ||||
Increase (decrease) in operating liabilities- | ||||||||
Accounts payable | (14,196 | ) | (58,986 | ) | ||||
Accrued taxes | (14,519 | ) | (9,835 | ) | ||||
Accrued interest | 281 | 1,243 | ||||||
Other | 3,892 | 3,939 | ||||||
Net cash used for operating activities | (68,319 | ) | (125,878 | ) | ||||
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||
New Financing- | ||||||||
Short-term borrowings, net | 131,743 | 150,619 | ||||||
Redemptions and Repayments- | ||||||||
Long-term debt | (28,515 | ) | - | |||||
Net cash provided from financing activities | 103,228 | 150,619 | ||||||
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||
Property additions | (31,296 | ) | (18,803 | ) | ||||
Sales of investment securities held in trusts | 40,513 | 25,323 | ||||||
Purchases of investment securities held in trusts | (43,391 | ) | (28,519 | ) | ||||
Loans to associated companies, net | (254 | ) | (2,822 | ) | ||||
Other | (484 | ) | 79 | |||||
Net cash used for investing activities | (34,912 | ) | (24,742 | ) | ||||
Net change in cash and cash equivalents | (3 | ) | (1 | ) | ||||
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period | 135 | 130 | ||||||
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period | $ | 132 | $ | 129 | ||||
The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements as they relate to Metropolitan Edison Company are | ||||||||
an integral part of these statements. |
74
PENNSYLVANIA ELECTRIC COMPANY
MANAGEMENT’S NARRATIVE |
ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS |
Penelec is a wholly owned electric utility subsidiary of FirstEnergy. Penelec conducts business in northern and south central Pennsylvania, providing regulated transmission and distribution services. Penelec also provides generation services to those customers electing to retain Penelec as their power supplier.
Results of Operations
Net income decreased to $21 million in the first quarter of 2008, compared to $32 million in the same period of 2007. The decrease was primarily due to increased purchased power costs and other operating costs and a decrease in the deferral of new regulatory assets, partially offset by higher revenues.
Revenues
Revenues increased by $40 million, or 11.1%, in the first quarter of 2008 as compared to the same time period of 2007, primarily due to higher retail and wholesale generation revenues, distribution throughput revenues and PJM transmission revenues.
In the first quarter of 2008, retail generation revenues increased $5 million primarily due to higher KWH sales to the residential and commercial customer classes and higher composite unit prices in all customer classes, partially offset by lower KWH sales to the industrial customer class.
Changes in retail generation sales and revenues in the first quarter of 2008 compared to the same period of 2007 are summarized in the following tables:
Retail Generation KWH Sales | Increase (Decrease) | |||
Residential | 4.5 | % | ||
Commercial | 3.0 | % | ||
Industrial | (1.6 | )% | ||
Net Increase in Retail Generation Sales | 2.2 | % |
Retail Generation Revenues | Increase | |||
(In millions) | ||||
Residential | $ | 3 | ||
Commercial | 2 | |||
Industrial | - | |||
Increase in Retail Generation Revenues | $ | 5 |
Wholesale revenues increased $21 million in the first quarter of 2008, compared to the same period of 2007, primarily reflecting higher spot market prices for PJM market participants.
Revenues from distribution throughput increased $4 million in the first quarter of 2008 compared to the same period of 2007, due to increased usage in the residential and commercial customer classes, partially offset by decreased KWH deliveries to industrial customers.
Changes in distribution KWH deliveries and revenues in the first quarter of 2008 compared to the same period of 2007 are summarized in the following tables:
75
Distribution KWH Deliveries | Increase (Decrease) | |||
Residential | 4.5 | % | ||
Commercial | 3.0 | % | ||
Industrial | (1.5 | )% | ||
Net Increase in Retail Generation Sales | 2.1 | % |
Distribution Revenues | Increase | ||||
(In millions) | |||||
Residential | $ | 2 | |||
Commercial | 2 | ||||
Industrial | - | ||||
Increase in Retail Generation Revenues | $ | 4 |
PJM transmission revenues increased by $10 million in the first quarter of 2008 compared to the same period of 2007, primarily due to higher transmission volumes. Penelec defers the difference between revenue from its transmission rider and total transmission costs incurred, resulting in no material effect to current period earnings.
Operating Expenses
Total operating expenses increased by $49 million in the first quarter of 2008 as compared with the same period of 2007. The following table presents changes from the prior year by expense category:
Expenses - Changes | Increase | |||
(In millions) | ||||
Purchased power costs | $ | 20 | ||
Other operating costs | 12 | |||
Provision for depreciation | 1 | |||
Amortization of regulatory assets | 1 | |||
Deferral of new regulatory assets | 13 | |||
General taxes | 2 | |||
Increase in expenses | $ | 49 |
Purchased power costs increased by $20 million, or 10.2%, in the first quarter of 2008 compared to the same period of 2007, primarily due to increased composite unit prices combined with higher KWH purchases to source increased retail and wholesale generation sales. Other operating costs increased by $12 million in the first quarter of 2008 principally due to higher congestion costs and other transmission expenses associated with increased transmission volumes.
The deferral of new regulatory assets decreased in the first quarter of 2008 primarily due to the absence of the 2007 deferral of decommissioning costs ($12 million) associated with the Saxton nuclear research facility (see Note 11) and a decrease in transmission cost deferrals.
In the first quarter of 2008, general taxes increased $2 million as compared to the same period of 2007, primarily due to higher gross receipts taxes.
Other Expense
In the first quarter of 2008, other expense increased primarily due to higher interest expense associated with Penelec’s $300 million senior note issuance in August 2007 and reduced income from life insurance investments.
Legal Proceedings
See the “Regulatory Matters,” “Environmental Matters” and “Other Legal Proceedings” sections within the Combined Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Registrant Subsidiaries for discussion of legal proceedings applicable to Penelec.
New Accounting Standards and Interpretations
See the “New Accounting Standards and Interpretations” section within the Combined Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Registrant Subsidiaries for discussion of new accounting standards and interpretations applicable to Penelec.
76
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Stockholder and Board of
Directors of Pennsylvania Electric Company:
We have reviewed the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of Pennsylvania Electric Company and its subsidiaries as of March 31, 2008 and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income and cash flows for each of the three-month periods ended March 31, 2008 and 2007. These interim financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management.
We conducted our review in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). A review of interim financial information consists principally of applying analytical procedures and making inquiries of persons responsible for financial and accounting matters. It is substantially less in scope than an audit conducted in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the objective of which is the expression of an opinion regarding the financial statements taken as a whole. Accordingly, we do not express such an opinion.
Based on our review, we are not aware of any material modifications that should be made to the accompanying consolidated interim financial statements for them to be in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
We previously audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2007, and the related consolidated statements of income, capitalization, common stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for the year then ended (not presented herein), and in our report (which contained references to the Company’s change in its method of accounting for uncertain tax positions as of January 1, 2007, defined benefit pension and other postretirement plans as of December 31, 2006 and conditional asset retirement obligations as of December 31, 2005, as discussed in Note 8, Note 4, Note 2(G) and Note 11 to the consolidated financial statements) dated February 28, 2008, we expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements. In our opinion, the information set forth in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet information as of December 31, 2007, is fairly stated in all material respects in relation to the consolidated balance sheet from which it has been derived.
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP Cleveland, Ohio May 7, 2008 |
77
PENNSYLVANIA ELECTRIC COMPANY | ||||||||
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME | ||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||
Three Months Ended | ||||||||
March 31, | ||||||||
2008 | 2007 | |||||||
(In thousands) | ||||||||
REVENUES: | ||||||||
Electric sales | $ | 376,028 | $ | 339,226 | ||||
Gross receipts tax collections | 19,464 | 16,680 | ||||||
Total revenues | 395,492 | 355,906 | ||||||
EXPENSES: | ||||||||
Purchased power | 221,234 | 200,842 | ||||||
Other operating costs | 71,077 | 59,461 | ||||||
Provision for depreciation | 12,516 | 11,777 | ||||||
Amortization of regulatory assets | 16,346 | 15,394 | ||||||
Deferral of new regulatory assets | (3,526 | ) | (17,088 | ) | ||||
General taxes | 21,855 | 19,851 | ||||||
Total expenses | 339,502 | 290,237 | ||||||
OPERATING INCOME | 55,990 | 65,669 | ||||||
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE): | ||||||||
Miscellaneous income (expense) | (191 | ) | 1,417 | |||||
Interest expense | (15,322 | ) | (11,337 | ) | ||||
Capitalized interest | (806 | ) | 258 | |||||
Total other expense | (16,319 | ) | (9,662 | ) | ||||
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES | 39,671 | 56,007 | ||||||
INCOME TAXES | 18,279 | 24,263 | ||||||
NET INCOME | 21,392 | 31,744 | ||||||
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS): | ||||||||
Pension and other postretirement benefits | (3,473 | ) | (2,825 | ) | ||||
Unrealized gain on derivative hedges | 16 | 16 | ||||||
Change in unrealized gain on available-for-sale securities | 11 | (3 | ) | |||||
Other comprehensive loss | (3,446 | ) | (2,812 | ) | ||||
Income tax benefit related to other comprehensive loss | (1,506 | ) | (1,298 | ) | ||||
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax | (1,940 | ) | (1,514 | ) | ||||
TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE INCOME | $ | 19,452 | $ | 30,230 | ||||
The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements as they relate to Pennsylvania Electric Company | ||||||||
are an integral part of these statements. |
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PENNSYLVANIA ELECTRIC COMPANY | ||||||||
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS | ||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||
March 31, | December 31, | |||||||
2008 | 2007 | |||||||
(In thousands) | ||||||||
ASSETS | ||||||||
CURRENT ASSETS: | ||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 43 | $ | 46 | ||||
Receivables- | ||||||||
Customers (less accumulated provisions of $4,201,000 and $3,905,000, | ||||||||
respectively, for uncollectible accounts) | 141,316 | 137,455 | ||||||
Associated companies | 23,396 | 22,014 | ||||||
Other | 28,833 | 19,529 | ||||||
Notes receivable from associated companies | 16,923 | 16,313 | ||||||
Prepaid gross receipts taxes | 41,242 | - | ||||||
Other | 2,426 | 3,077 | ||||||
254,179 | 198,434 | |||||||
UTILITY PLANT: | ||||||||
In service | 2,230,667 | 2,219,002 | ||||||
Less - Accumulated provision for depreciation | 843,500 | 838,621 | ||||||
1,387,167 | 1,380,381 | |||||||
Construction work in progress | 33,727 | 24,251 | ||||||
1,420,894 | 1,404,632 | |||||||
OTHER PROPERTY AND INVESTMENTS: | ||||||||
Nuclear plant decommissioning trusts | 132,152 | 137,859 | ||||||
Non-utility generation trusts | 113,958 | 112,670 | ||||||
Other | 536 | 531 | ||||||
246,646 | 251,060 | |||||||
DEFERRED CHARGES AND OTHER ASSETS: | ||||||||
Goodwill | 777,616 | 777,904 | ||||||
Pension assets | 69,405 | 66,111 | ||||||
Other | 29,770 | 33,893 | ||||||
876,791 | 877,908 | |||||||
$ | 2,798,510 | $ | 2,732,034 | |||||
LIABILITIES AND CAPITALIZATION | ||||||||
CURRENT LIABILITIES: | ||||||||
Short-term borrowings- | ||||||||
Associated companies | $ | 183,102 | $ | 214,893 | ||||
Other | 150,000 | - | ||||||
Accounts payable- | ||||||||
Associated companies | 61,476 | 83,359 | ||||||
Other | 50,516 | 51,777 | ||||||
Accrued taxes | 9,302 | 15,111 | ||||||
Accrued interest | 13,677 | 13,167 | ||||||
Other | 23,330 | 25,311 | ||||||
491,403 | 403,618 | |||||||
CAPITALIZATION: | ||||||||
Common stockholder's equity- | ||||||||
Common stock, $20 par value, authorized 5,400,000 shares- | ||||||||
4,427,577 shares outstanding | 88,552 | 88,552 | ||||||
Other paid-in capital | 920,265 | 920,616 | ||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive income | 3,006 | 4,946 | ||||||
Retained earnings | 79,336 | 57,943 | ||||||
Total common stockholder's equity | 1,091,159 | 1,072,057 | ||||||
Long-term debt and other long-term obligations | 732,465 | 777,243 | ||||||
1,823,624 | 1,849,300 | |||||||
NONCURRENT LIABILITIES: | ||||||||
Regulatory liabilities | 67,347 | 73,559 | ||||||
Accumulated deferred income taxes | 220,500 | 210,776 | ||||||
Retirement benefits | 41,644 | 41,298 | ||||||
Asset retirement obligations | 83,129 | 81,849 | ||||||
Other | 70,863 | 71,634 | ||||||
483,483 | 479,116 | |||||||
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Note 10) | ||||||||
$ | 2,798,510 | $ | 2,732,034 | |||||
The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements as they relate to Pennsylvania Electric Company are an | ||||||||
integral part of these balance sheets. |
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PENNSYLVANIA ELECTRIC COMPANY | ||||||||
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS | ||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||
Three Months Ended | ||||||||
March 31, | ||||||||
2008 | 2007 | |||||||
(In thousands) | ||||||||
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||
Net income | $ | 21,392 | $ | 31,744 | ||||
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash from operating activities- | ||||||||
Provision for depreciation | 12,516 | 11,777 | ||||||
Amortization of regulatory assets | 16,346 | 15,394 | ||||||
Deferral of new regulatory assets | (3,526 | ) | (17,088 | ) | ||||
Deferred costs recoverable as regulatory assets | (8,403 | ) | (18,433 | ) | ||||
Deferred income taxes and investment tax credits, net | 10,541 | 13,366 | ||||||
Accrued compensation and retirement benefits | (10,488 | ) | (8,786 | ) | ||||
Cash collateral | 301 | 1,450 | ||||||
Pension trust contribution | - | (13,436 | ) | |||||
Increase in operating assets- | ||||||||
Receivables | (13,701 | ) | (30,050 | ) | ||||
Prepayments and other current assets | (40,591 | ) | (36,225 | ) | ||||
Increase (Decrease) in operating liabilities- | ||||||||
Accounts payable | (23,144 | ) | (46,168 | ) | ||||
Accrued taxes | (5,809 | ) | (9,152 | ) | ||||
Accrued interest | 510 | 5,518 | ||||||
Other | 4,991 | 3,920 | ||||||
Net cash used for operating activities | (39,065 | ) | (96,169 | ) | ||||
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||
New Financing- | ||||||||
Short-term borrowings, net | 118,209 | 119,361 | ||||||
Redemptions and Repayments | ||||||||
Long-term debt | (45,112 | ) | - | |||||
Net cash provided from financing activities | 73,097 | 119,361 | ||||||
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||
Property additions | (28,902 | ) | (20,404 | ) | ||||
Sales of investment securities held in trusts | 24,407 | 12,758 | ||||||
Purchases of investment securities held in trusts | (29,083 | ) | (15,509 | ) | ||||
Loan repayments from (loans to) associated companies, net | (610 | ) | 708 | |||||
Other | 153 | (747 | ) | |||||
Net cash used for investing activities | (34,035 | ) | (23,194 | ) | ||||
Net change in cash and cash equivalents | (3 | ) | (2 | ) | ||||
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period | 46 | 44 | ||||||
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period | $ | 43 | $ | 42 | ||||
The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements as they relate to Pennsylvania Electric Company are | ||||||||
an integral part of these statements. |
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COMBINED MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION
AND ANALYSIS OF REGISTRANT SUBSIDIARIES
The following is a combined presentation of certain disclosures referenced in Management’s Narrative Analysis of Results of Operations of FES and the Companies. This information should be read in conjunction with (i) FES’ and the Companies’ respective Consolidated Financial Statements and Management’s Narrative Analysis of Results of Operations; (ii) the Combined Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements as they relate to FES and the Companies; and (iii) FES’ and the Companies’ respective 2007 Annual Reports on Form 10-K.
Regulatory Matters (Applicable to each of the Companies)
In Ohio, New Jersey and Pennsylvania, laws applicable to electric industry restructuring contain similar provisions that are reflected in the Companies' respective state regulatory plans. These provisions include:
· | restructuring the electric generation business and allowing the Companies' customers to select a competitive electric generation supplier other than the Companies; |
· | establishing or defining the PLR obligations to customers in the Companies' service areas; |
· | providing the Companies with the opportunity to recover potentially stranded investment (or transition costs) not otherwise recoverable in a competitive generation market; |
· | itemizing (unbundling) the price of electricity into its component elements – including generation, transmission, distribution and stranded costs recovery charges; |
· | continuing regulation of the Companies' transmission and distribution systems; and |
· | requiring corporate separation of regulated and unregulated business activities. |
The Companies and ATSI recognize, as regulatory assets, costs which the FERC, PUCO, PPUC and NJBPU have authorized for recovery from customers in future periods or for which authorization is probable. Without the probability of such authorization, costs currently recorded as regulatory assets would have been charged to income as incurred. Regulatory assets that do not earn a current return totaled approximately $137 million as of March 31, 2008 (JCP&L - $78 million and Met-Ed - $59 million). Regulatory assets not earning a current return are expected to be recovered by 2014 for JCP&L and by 2020 for Met-Ed. The following table discloses regulatory assets by company:
March 31, | December 31, | Increase | ||||||||
Regulatory Assets* | 2008 | 2007 | (Decrease) | |||||||
(In millions) | ||||||||||
OE | $ | 710 | $ | 737 | $ | (27 | ) | |||
CEI | 854 | 871 | (17 | ) | ||||||
TE | 188 | 204 | (16 | ) | ||||||
JCP&L | 1,476 | 1,596 | (120 | ) | ||||||
Met-Ed | 530 | 495 | 35 | |||||||
ATSI | 39 | 42 | (3 | ) | ||||||
Total | $ | 3,797 | $ | 3,945 | $ | (148 | ) |
* | Penelec had net regulatory liabilities of approximately $67 million and $74 million as of March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively. These net regulatory liabilities are included in Other Non-current Liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. |
Ohio (Applicable to OE, CEI and TE)
The Ohio Companies filed an application and stipulation with the PUCO on September 9, 2005 seeking approval of the RCP, a supplement to the RSP. On November 4, 2005, the Ohio Companies filed a supplemental stipulation with the PUCO, which constituted an additional component of the RCP. On January 4, 2006, the PUCO approved, with modifications, the Ohio Companies’ RCP to supplement the RSP to provide customers with more certain rate levels than otherwise available under the RSP during the plan period. The following table provides the estimated net amortization of regulatory transition costs and deferred shopping incentives (including associated carrying charges) under the RCP for the period 2008 through 2010:
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Amortization | Total | ||||||||||||
Period | OE | CEI | TE | Ohio | |||||||||
(In millions) | |||||||||||||
2008 | $ | 204 | $ | 126 | $ | 118 | $ | 448 | |||||
2009 | - | 212 | - | 212 | |||||||||
2010 | - | 273 | - | 273 | |||||||||
Total Amortization | $ | 204 | $ | 611 | $ | 118 | $ | 933 |
On January 4, 2006, the PUCO issued an order authorizing the Ohio Companies to recover certain increased fuel costs through a fuel rider and to defer certain other increased fuel costs to be incurred from January 1, 2006 through December 31, 2008, including interest on the deferred balances. The order also provided for recovery of the deferred costs over a twenty-five-year period through distribution rates. On August 29, 2007, the Supreme Court of Ohio concluded that the PUCO violated a provision of the Ohio Revised Code by permitting the Ohio Companies “to collect deferred increased fuel costs through future distribution rate cases, or to alternatively use excess fuel-cost recovery to reduce deferred distribution-related expenses” and remanded the matter to the PUCO for further consideration. On September 10, 2007 the Ohio Companies filed an application with the PUCO that requested the implementation of two generation-related fuel cost riders to collect the increased fuel costs that were previously authorized to be deferred. On January 9, 2008 the PUCO approved the Ohio Companies’ proposed fuel cost rider to recover increased fuel costs to be incurred in 2008 commencing January 1, 2008 through December 31, 2008, which is expected to be approximately $189 million (OE - $91 million, CEI - $72 million and TE - $26 million). In addition, the PUCO ordered the Ohio Companies to file a separate application for an alternate recovery mechanism to collect the 2006 and 2007 deferred fuel costs. On February 8, 2008, the Ohio Companies filed an application proposing to recover $226 million (OE - $114 million, CEI - $79 million and TE - $33 million) of deferred fuel costs and carrying charges for 2006 and 2007 pursuant to a separate fuel rider, with alternative options for the recovery period ranging from five to twenty-five years. This second application is currently pending before the PUCO and a hearing has been set for July 15, 2008.
The Ohio Companies filed an application and rate request for an increase in electric distribution rates with the PUCO on June 7, 2007. The requested increase is expected to be more than offset by the elimination or reduction of transition charges at the time the rates go into effect and would result in lowering the overall non-generation portion of the average electric bill for most Ohio customers. The distribution rate increases reflect capital expenditures since the Ohio Companies’ last distribution rate proceedings, increases in operation and maintenance expenses and recovery of regulatory assets that were authorized in prior cases. On August 6, 2007, the Ohio Companies updated their filing supporting a distribution rate increase of $332 million (OE - $156 million, CEI - $108 million and TE - $68 million). On December 4, 2007, the PUCO Staff issued its Staff Reports containing the results of their investigation into the distribution rate request. In its reports, the PUCO Staff recommended a distribution rate increase in the range of $161 million to $180 million (OE - $57 million to $66 million, CEI - $54 million to $61 million and TE - $50 million to $53 million), with $108 million to $127 million for distribution revenue increases and $53 million for recovery of costs deferred under prior cases. This amount excludes the recovery of deferred fuel costs, whose recovery is now being sought in a separate proceeding before the PUCO, discussed above. On January 3, 2008, the Ohio Companies and intervening parties filed objections to the Staff Reports and on January 10, 2008, the Ohio Companies filed supplemental testimony. Evidentiary hearings began on January 29, 2008 and continued through February 25, 2008. During the evidentiary hearings, the PUCO Staff submitted testimony decreasing their recommended revenue increase to a range of $114 million to $132 million. Additionally, in testimony submitted on February 11, 2008, the PUCO Staff adopted a position regarding interest deferred for RCP-related deferrals, line extension deferrals and transition tax deferrals that, if upheld by the PUCO, would result in the write-off of approximately $45 million (OE - $31 million, CEI - $9 million and TE - $5 million) of interest costs deferred through March 31, 2008 ($0.09 per share of common stock). The PUCO is expected to render its decision during the second or third quarter of 2008. The new rates would become effective January 1, 2009 for OE and TE, and approximately May 2009 for CEI.
On July 10, 2007, the Ohio Companies filed an application with the PUCO requesting approval of a comprehensive supply plan for providing retail generation service to customers who do not purchase electricity from an alternative supplier, beginning January 1, 2009. The proposed competitive bidding process would average the results of multiple bidding sessions conducted at different times during the year. The final price per KWH would reflect an average of the prices resulting from all bids. In their filing, the Ohio Companies offered two alternatives for structuring the bids, either by customer class or a “slice-of-system” approach. A slice-of-system approach would require the successful bidder to be responsible for supplying a fixed percentage of the utility’s total load notwithstanding the customer’s classification. The proposal provides the PUCO with an option to phase in generation price increases for residential tariff groups who would experience a change in their average total price of 15 percent or more. The PUCO held a technical conference on August 16, 2007 regarding the filing. Initial and reply comments on the proposal were filed by various parties in September and October 2007, respectively. The proposal is currently pending before the PUCO.
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On April 22, 2008, an amended version of Substitute SB221 was passed by the Ohio House of Representatives and sent back to the Ohio Senate for concurrence. On April 23, 2008, the Ohio Senate approved the House's amendments to Substitute SB221 and forwarded the bill to the Governor for signature, which he signed on May 1, 2008. Amended Substitute SB221 requires all electric distribution utilities to file an RSP, now called an ESP, with the PUCO. An ESP is required to contain a proposal for the supply and pricing of retail generation and may include proposals, without limitation, related to one or more of the following:
· | automatic recovery of prudently incurred fuel, purchased power, emission allowance costs and federally mandated energy taxes; |
· | construction work in progress for costs of constructing an electric generating facility or environmental expenditure for any electric generating facility; |
· | costs of an electric generating facility; |
· | terms related to customer shopping, bypassability, standby, back-up and default service; |
· | accounting for deferrals related to stabilizing retail electric service; |
· | automatic increases or decreases in standard service offer price; |
· | phase-in and securitization; |
· | transmission service and related costs; |
· | distribution service and related costs; and |
· | economic development and energy efficiency. |
A utility could also simultaneously file an MRO in which it would have to demonstrate the following objective market criteria: The utility or its transmission service affiliate belongs to a FERC-approved RTO having a market-monitor function and the ability to mitigate market power, and a published source exists that identifies information for traded electricity and energy products that are contracted for delivery two years into the future. The PUCO would test the ESP and its pricing and all other terms and conditions against the MRO and may only approve the ESP if it is found to be more favorable to customers. As part of an ESP with a plan period longer than three years, the PUCO shall prospectively determine every fourth year of the plan whether it is substantially likely the plan will provide the electric distribution utility a return on common equity significantly in excess of the return likely to be earned by publicly traded companies, including utilities, that face comparable business and financial risk (comparable companies). If so, the PUCO may terminate the ESP. Annually under an ESP, the PUCO shall determine whether an electric distribution utility's earned return on common equity is significantly in excess of returns earned on common equity during the same period by comparable companies, and if so, shall require the utility to return such excess to customers by prospective adjustments. Amended Substitute SB221 also includes provisions dealing with advanced and renewable energy standards that contemplate 25% of electrical usage from these sources by 2025. Energy efficiency measures in the bill require energy savings in excess of 22% by 2025. Requirements are in place to meet annual benchmarks for renewable energy resources and energy efficiency, subject to review by the PUCO. FirstEnergy is currently evaluating this legislation and expects to file an ESP in the second or third quarter of 2008.
Pennsylvania (Applicable to FES, Met-Ed, Penelec, OE and Penn)
Met-Ed and Penelec purchase a portion of their PLR and default service requirements from FES through a fixed-price partial requirements wholesale power sales agreement. The agreement allows Met-Ed and Penelec to sell the output of NUG energy to the market and requires FES to provide energy at fixed prices to replace any NUG energy sold to the extent needed for Met-Ed and Penelec to satisfy their PLR and default service obligations. The fixed price under the agreement is expected to remain below wholesale market prices during the term of the agreement. If Met-Ed and Penelec were to replace the entire FES supply at current market power prices without corresponding regulatory authorization to increase their generation prices to customers, each company would likely incur a significant increase in operating expenses and experience a material deterioration in credit quality metrics. Under such a scenario, each company's credit profile would no longer be expected to support an investment grade rating for their fixed income securities. Based on the PPUC’s January 11, 2007 order described below, if FES ultimately determines to terminate, reduce, or significantly modify the agreement prior to the expiration of Met-Ed’s and Penelec’s generation rate caps in 2010, timely regulatory relief is not likely to be granted by the PPUC.
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Met-Ed and Penelec made a comprehensive transition rate filing with the PPUC on April 10, 2006 to address a number of transmission, distribution and supply issues. If Met-Ed's and Penelec's preferred approach involving accounting deferrals had been approved, annual revenues would have increased by $216 million and $157 million, respectively. That filing included, among other things, a request to charge customers for an increasing amount of market-priced power procured through a CBP as the amount of supply provided under the then existing FES agreement was to be phased out. Met-Ed and Penelec also requested approval of a January 12, 2005 petition for the deferral of transmission-related costs incurred during 2006. In this rate filing, Met-Ed and Penelec requested recovery of annual transmission and related costs incurred on or after January 1, 2007, plus the amortized portion of 2006 costs over a ten-year period, along with applicable carrying charges, through an adjustable rider. Changes in the recovery of NUG expenses and the recovery of Met-Ed's non-NUG stranded costs were also included in the filing. On May 4, 2006, the PPUC consolidated the remand of the FirstEnergy and GPU merger proceeding, related to the quantification and allocation of merger savings, with the comprehensive transition rate filing case.
The PPUC entered its opinion and order in the comprehensive rate filing proceeding on January 11, 2007. The order approved the recovery of transmission costs, including the transmission-related deferral for January 1, 2006 through January 10, 2007, and determined that no merger savings from prior years should be considered in determining customers’ rates. The request for increases in generation supply rates was denied as were the requested changes to NUG expense recovery and Met-Ed’s non-NUG stranded costs. The order decreased Met-Ed’s and Penelec’s distribution rates by $80 million and $19 million, respectively. These decreases were offset by the increases allowed for the recovery of transmission costs. Met-Ed’s and Penelec’s request for recovery of Saxton decommissioning costs was granted and, in January 2007, Met-Ed and Penelec recognized income of $15 million and $12 million, respectively, to establish regulatory assets for those previously expensed decommissioning costs. Overall rates increased by 5.0% for Met-Ed ($59 million) and 4.5% for Penelec ($50 million).
On March 30, 2007, MEIUG and PICA filed a Petition for Review with the Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania asking the court to review the PPUC’s determination on transmission (including congestion) and the transmission deferral. Met-Ed and Penelec filed a Petition for Review on April 13, 2007 on the issues of consolidated tax savings and the requested generation rate increase. The OCA filed its Petition for Review on April 13, 2007, on the issues of transmission (including congestion) and recovery of universal service costs from only the residential rate class. From June through October 2007, initial responsive and reply briefs were filed by various parties. Oral arguments are scheduled to take place in September 2008. If Met-Ed and Penelec do not prevail on the issue of congestion, it could have a material adverse effect on the results of operations of Met-Ed, Penelec and FirstEnergy.
On April 14, 2008, Met-Ed and Penelec filed annual updates to the TSC rider for the period June 1, 2008, through May 31, 2009. The proposed TSCs include a component for under-recovery of actual transmission costs incurred during the prior period (Met-Ed - $144 million and Penelec - $4 million) and future transmission cost projections for June 2008 through May 2009 (Met-Ed - $258 million and Penelec - $92 million). Met-Ed has proposed a transition approach that would recover past under-recovered costs plus carrying charges through the new TSC over thirty-one months and defer a portion of the projected costs ($92 million) plus carrying charges for recovery through future TSCs by December 31, 2010.
On March 13, 2008, the PPUC approved the residential procurement process in Penn’s Joint Petition for Settlement. This RFP process calls for load-following, full-requirements contracts for default service procurement for residential customers for the period covering June 1, 2008 through May 31, 2011. The PPUC had previously approved the default service procurement processes for commercial and industrial customers. The default service procurement for small commercial customers was conducted through multiple RFPs, while the default service procurement for large commercial and industrial customers will utilize hourly pricing. Bids in the two RFPs for small commercial load were approved by the PPUC on February 22, 2008, and March 20, 2008. On March 28, 2008, Penn filed compliance tariffs with the new default service generation rates based on the approved RFP bids for small commercial customers which the PPUC then certified on April 4, 2008. On April 14, 2008, the first RFP for residential customers’ load was held consisting of tranches for both 12 and 24-month supply. The PPUC approved the bids on April 16, 2008. The second RFP is scheduled to be held on May 14, 2008, after which time the PPUC is expected to approve the new rates to go into effect June 1, 2008.
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On February 1, 2007, the Governor of Pennsylvania proposed an EIS. The EIS includes four pieces of proposed legislation that, according to the Governor, is designed to reduce energy costs, promote energy independence and stimulate the economy. Elements of the EIS include the installation of smart meters, funding for solar panels on residences and small businesses, conservation and demand reduction programs to meet energy growth, a requirement that electric distribution companies acquire power that results in the “lowest reasonable rate on a long-term basis,” the utilization of micro-grids and a three year phase-in of rate increases. On July 17, 2007 the Governor signed into law two pieces of energy legislation. The first amended the Alternative Energy Portfolio Standards Act of 2004 to, among other things, increase the percentage of solar energy that must be supplied at the conclusion of an electric distribution company’s transition period. The second law allows electric distribution companies, at their sole discretion, to enter into long term contracts with large customers and to build or acquire interests in electric generation facilities specifically to supply long-term contracts with such customers. A special legislative session on energy was convened in mid-September 2007 to consider other aspects of the EIS. The Pennsylvania House and Senate on March 11, 2008 and December 12, 2007, respectively, passed different versions of bills to fund the Governor’s EIS proposal. Neither chamber has formally considered the other’s bill. On February 12, 2008, the Pennsylvania House passed House Bill 2200 which provides for energy efficiency and demand management programs and targets as well as the installation of smart meters within ten years. Other legislation has been introduced to address generation procurement, expiration of rate caps, conservation and renewable energy. The final form of this pending legislation is uncertain. Consequently, Met-Ed, Penelec, OE and Penn are unable to predict what impact, if any, such legislation may have on their operations.
New Jersey (Applicable to JCP&L)
JCP&L is permitted to defer for future collection from customers the amounts by which its costs of supplying BGS to non-shopping customers and costs incurred under NUG agreements exceed amounts collected through BGS and NUGC rates and market sales of NUG energy and capacity. As of March 31, 2008, the accumulated deferred cost balance totaled approximately $264 million.
In accordance with an April 28, 2004 NJBPU order, JCP&L filed testimony on June 7, 2004 supporting continuation of the current level and duration of the funding of TMI-2 decommissioning costs by New Jersey customers without a reduction, termination or capping of the funding. On September 30, 2004, JCP&L filed an updated TMI-2 decommissioning study. This study resulted in an updated total decommissioning cost estimate of $729 million (in 2003 dollars) compared to the estimated $528 million (in 2003 dollars) from the prior 1995 decommissioning study. The DRA filed comments on February 28, 2005 requesting that decommissioning funding be suspended. On March 18, 2005, JCP&L filed a response to those comments. JCP&L responded to additional NJBPU staff discovery requests in May and November 2007 and also submitted comments in the proceeding in November 2007. A schedule for further NJBPU proceedings has not yet been set.
On August 1, 2005, the NJBPU established a proceeding to determine whether additional ratepayer protections are required at the state level in light of the repeal of the PUHCA pursuant to the EPACT. The NJBPU approved regulations effective October 2, 2006 that prevent a holding company that owns a gas or electric public utility from investing more than 25% of the combined assets of its utility and utility-related subsidiaries into businesses unrelated to the utility industry. These regulations are not expected to materially impact JCP&L. Also, in the same proceeding, the NJBPU Staff issued an additional draft proposal on March 31, 2006 addressing various issues including access to books and records, ring-fencing, cross subsidization, corporate governance and related matters. With the approval of the NJBPU Staff, the affected utilities jointly submitted an alternative proposal on June 1, 2006. The NJBPU Staff circulated revised drafts of the proposal to interested stakeholders in November 2006 and again in February 2007. On February 1, 2008, the NJBPU accepted proposed rules for publication in the New Jersey Register on March 17, 2008. A public hearing on these proposed rules was held on April 23, 2008 with comments from interested parties due on May 16, 2008.
New Jersey statutes require that the state periodically undertake a planning process, known as the EMP, to address energy related issues including energy security, economic growth, and environmental impact. The EMP is to be developed with involvement of the Governor’s Office and the Governor’s Office of Economic Growth, and is to be prepared by a Master Plan Committee, which is chaired by the NJBPU President and includes representatives of several State departments. In October 2006, the current EMP process was initiated through the creation of a number of working groups to obtain input from a broad range of interested stakeholders including utilities, environmental groups, customer groups, and major customers. In addition, public stakeholder meetings were held in the fall of 2006 and in early 2007.
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On April 17, 2008, a draft EMP was released for public comment. The draft EMP establishes four major goals:
· | maximize energy efficiency to achieve a 20% reduction in energy consumption by 2020; |
· | reduce peak demand for electricity by 5,700 MW by 2020 (amounting to about a 22% reduction in projected demand); |
· | meet 22.5% of the state’s electricity needs with renewable energy by 2020; and |
· | develop low carbon emitting, efficient power plants and close the gap between the supply and demand for electricity. |
Following the public comment period which is expected to extend into July 2008, a final EMP will be issued to be followed by appropriate legislation and regulation as necessary. At this time, JCP&L cannot predict the outcome of this process nor determine the impact, if any, such legislation or regulation may have on its operations.
On February 13, 2007, the NJBPU Staff informally issued a draft proposal relating to changes to the regulations addressing electric distribution service reliability and quality standards. Meetings between the NJBPU Staff and interested stakeholders to discuss the proposal were held and additional, revised informal proposals were subsequently circulated by the Staff. On September 4, 2007, proposed regulations were published in the New Jersey Register, which proposal will be subsequently considered by the NJBPU following comments that were submitted in September and October 2007. Final regulations (effective upon publication) were published in the New Jersey Register March 17, 2008. Upon preliminary review of the new regulations, JCP&L does not expect a material impact on its operations.
FERC Matters (Applicable to FES and each of the Companies)
Transmission Service between MISO and PJM
On November 18, 2004, the FERC issued an order eliminating the through and out rate for transmission service between the MISO and PJM regions. The FERC’s intent was to eliminate so-called “pancaking” of transmission charges between the MISO and PJM regions. The FERC also ordered the MISO, PJM and the transmission owners within MISO and PJM to submit compliance filings containing a rate mechanism to recover lost transmission revenues created by elimination of this charge (referred to as the Seams Elimination Cost Adjustment or “SECA”) during a 16-month transition period. The FERC issued orders in 2005 setting the SECA for hearing. The presiding judge issued an initial decision on August 10, 2006, rejecting the compliance filings made by MISO, PJM, and the transmission owners, and directing new compliance filings. This decision is subject to review and approval by the FERC. Briefs addressing the initial decision were filed on September 11, 2006 and October 20, 2006. A final order could be issued by the FERC in the second quarter of 2008.
PJM Transmission Rate Design
On January 31, 2005, certain PJM transmission owners made filings with the FERC pursuant to a settlement agreement previously approved by the FERC. JCP&L, Met-Ed and Penelec were parties to that proceeding and joined in two of the filings. In the first filing, the settling transmission owners submitted a filing justifying continuation of their existing rate design within the PJM RTO. Hearings were held and numerous parties appeared and litigated various issues concerning PJM rate design; notably AEP, which proposed to create a "postage stamp", or average rate for all high voltage transmission facilities across PJM and a zonal transmission rate for facilities below 345 kV. This proposal would have the effect of shifting recovery of the costs of high voltage transmission lines to other transmission zones, including those where JCP&L, Met-Ed, and Penelec serve load. On April 19, 2007, the FERC issued an order finding that the PJM transmission owners’ existing “license plate” or zonal rate design was just and reasonable and ordered that the current license plate rates for existing transmission facilities be retained. On the issue of rates for new transmission facilities, the FERC directed that costs for new transmission facilities that are rated at 500 kV or higher are to be collected from all transmission zones throughout the PJM footprint by means of a postage-stamp rate. Costs for new transmission facilities that are rated at less than 500 kV, however, are to be allocated on a “beneficiary pays” basis. The FERC found that PJM’s current beneficiary-pays cost allocation methodology is not sufficiently detailed and, in a related order that also was issued on April 19, 2007, directed that hearings be held for the purpose of establishing a just and reasonable cost allocation methodology for inclusion in PJM’s tariff.
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On May 18, 2007, certain parties filed for rehearing of the FERC’s April 19, 2007 order. On January 31, 2008, the requests for rehearing were denied. The FERC’s orders on PJM rate design will prevent the allocation of a portion of the revenue requirement of existing transmission facilities of other utilities to JCP&L, Met-Ed and Penelec. In addition, the FERC’s decision to allocate the cost of new 500 kV and above transmission facilities on a PJM-wide basis will reduce future transmission revenue recovery from the JCP&L, Met-Ed and Penelec zones. A partial settlement agreement addressing the “beneficiary pays” methodology for below 500 kV facilities, but excluding the issue of allocating new facilities costs to merchant transmission entities, was filed on September 14, 2007. The agreement was supported by the FERC’s Trial Staff, and was certified by the Presiding Judge. The FERC’s action on the settlement agreement is pending. The remaining merchant transmission cost allocation issues will proceed to hearing in May 2008. On February 13, 2008, AEP appealed the FERC’s orders to the federal Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit. The Illinois Commerce Commission, the PUCO and Dayton Power & Light have also appealed these orders to the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals. The appeals of these parties and others have been consolidated for argument in the Seventh Circuit.
Post Transition Period Rate Design
The FERC had directed MISO, PJM, and the respective transmission owners to make filings on or before August 1, 2007 to reevaluate transmission rate design within the MISO, and between MISO and PJM. On August 1, 2007, filings were made by MISO, PJM, and the vast majority of transmission owners, including FirstEnergy affiliates, which proposed to retain the existing transmission rate design. These filings were approved by the FERC on January 31, 2008. As a result of the FERC’s approval, the rates charged to FirstEnergy’s load-serving affiliates for transmission service over existing transmission facilities in MISO and PJM are unchanged. In a related filing, MISO and MISO transmission owners requested that the current MISO pricing for new transmission facilities that spreads 20% of the cost of new 345 kV and higher transmission facilities across the entire MISO footprint (known as the RECB methodology) be retained.
On September 17, 2007, AEP filed a complaint under Sections 206 and 306 of the Federal Power Act seeking to have the entire transmission rate design and cost allocation methods used by MISO and PJM declared unjust, unreasonable, and unduly discriminatory, and to have the FERC fix a uniform regional transmission rate design and cost allocation method for the entire MISO and PJM “Super Region” that recovers the average cost of new and existing transmission facilities operated at voltages of 345 kV and above from all transmission customers. Lower voltage facilities would continue to be recovered in the local utility transmission rate zone through a license plate rate. AEP requested a refund effective October 1, 2007, or alternatively, February 1, 2008. On January 31, 2008, the FERC issued an order denying the complaint. A rehearing request by AEP is pending before the FERC.
Distribution of MISO Network Service Revenues
Effective February 1, 2008, the MISO Transmission Owners Agreement provides for a change in the method of distributing transmission revenues among the transmission owners. MISO and a majority of the MISO transmission owners filed on December 3, 2007 to change the MISO tariff to clarify, for purposes of distributing network transmission revenue to the transmission owners, that all network transmission service revenues, whether collected by MISO or directly by the transmission owner, are included in the revenue distribution calculation. This clarification was necessary because some network transmission service revenues are collected and retained by transmission owners in states where retail choice does not exist, and their “unbundled” retail load is currently exempt from MISO network service charges. The tariff changes filed with the FERC ensure that revenues collected by transmission owners from bundled load are taken into account in the revenue distribution calculation, and that transmission owners with bundled load do not collect more than their revenue requirements. Absent the changes, transmission owners, and ultimately their customers, with unbundled load or in retail choice states, such as ATSI, would subsidize transmission owners with bundled load, who would collect their revenue requirement from bundled load, plus share in revenues collected by MISO from unbundled customers. This would result in a large revenue shortfall for ATSI, which would eventually be passed on to customers in the form of higher transmission rates as calculated pursuant to ATSI’s Attachment O formula under the MISO tariff.
Numerous parties filed in support of the tariff changes, including the public service commissions of Michigan, Ohio and Wisconsin. Ameren filed a protest on December 26, 2007, arguing that the December 3, 2007 filing violates the MISO Transmission Owners’ Agreement as well as an agreement among Ameren (Union Electric), MISO, and the Missouri Public Service Commission, which provides that Union Electric’s bundled load cannot be charged by MISO for network service. On February 2, 2008, the FERC issued an order conditionally accepting the tariff amendment subject to a minor compliance filing, which was made on March 3, 2008. This order ensures that ATSI will continue to receive transmission revenues from MISO equivalent to its transmission revenue requirement. A rehearing request by Ameren is pending before the FERC.
On February 1, 2008, MISO filed a request to continue using the existing revenue distribution methodology on an interim basis pending amendment of the MISO Transmission Owners’ Agreement. This request was accepted by the FERC on March 13, 2008. On that same day, MISO and the MISO transmission owners made a filing to amend the Transmission Owners’ Agreement to effectively continue the distribution of transmission revenues that was in effect prior to February 1, 2008. This matter is currently pending before the FERC.
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MISO Ancillary Services Market and Balancing Area Consolidation
MISO made a filing on September 14, 2007 to establish an ASM for regulation, spinning and supplemental reserves, to consolidate the existing 24 balancing areas within the MISO footprint, and to establish MISO as the NERC registered balancing authority for the region. This filing would permit load serving entities to purchase their operating reserve requirements in a competitive market. FES, CEI, OE, Penn and TE support the proposal to establish markets for Ancillary Services and consolidate existing balancing areas. On February 25, 2008, the FERC issued an order approving the ASM subject to certain compliance filings. MISO has since notified the FERC that the start of its ASM is delayed until September of 2008.
Duquesne’s Request to Withdraw from PJM
On November 8, 2007, Duquesne Light Company (Duquesne) filed a request with the FERC to exit PJM and to join the MISO. In its filing, Duquesne asked the FERC to be relieved of certain capacity payment obligations to PJM for capacity auctions conducted prior to its departure from PJM, but covering service for planning periods through May 31, 2011. Duquesne asserted that its primary reason for exiting PJM is to avoid paying future obligations created by PJM’s forward capacity market. FirstEnergy believes that Duquesne’s filing did not identify or address numerous legal, financial or operational issues that are implicated or affected directly by Duquesne’s proposal. Consequently, FirstEnergy submitted responsive filings that, while conceding Duquesne’s rights to exit PJM, contested various aspects of Duquesne’s proposal. FirstEnergy particularly focused on Duquesne’s proposal that it be allowed to exit PJM without payment of its share of existing capacity market commitments. FirstEnergy also objected to Duquesne’s failure to address the firm transmission service requirements that would be necessary for FirstEnergy to continue to use the Beaver Valley Plant to meet existing commitments in the PJM capacity markets and to serve native load. Other market participants also submitted filings contesting Duquesne’s plans.
On January 17, 2008, the FERC conditionally approved Duquesne’s request to exit PJM. Among other conditions, the FERC obligated Duquesne to pay the PJM capacity obligations through May 31, 2011. The FERC’s order took notice of the numerous transmission and other issues raised by FES and the Companies and other parties to the proceeding, but did not provide any responsive rulings or other guidance. Rather, the FERC ordered Duquesne to make a compliance filing in forty-five days detailing how Duquesne will satisfy its obligations under the PJM Transmission Owners’ Agreement. The FERC likewise directed the MISO to submit detailed plans to integrate Duquesne into the MISO. Finally, the FERC directed MISO and PJM to work together to resolve the substantive and procedural issues implicated by Duquesne’s transition into the MISO. These issues remain unresolved. If Duquesne satisfies all of the obligations set by the FERC, its planned transition date is October 9, 2008.
On March 18, 2008, the PJM Power Providers Group filed a request for emergency clarification regarding whether Duquesne-zone generators (including the Beaver Valley Plant) could participate in PJM’s May 2008 auction for the 2011-2012 RPM delivery year. FirstEnergy and the other Duquesne-zone generators filed responsive pleadings. On April 18, 2008, the FERC issued its Order on Motion for Emergency Clarification, wherein the FERC ruled that although the status of the Duquesne-zone generators will change to “External Resource” upon Duquesne’s exit from PJM, these generators can contract with PJM for the transmission reservations necessary to participate in the May 2008 auction. FirstEnergy has complied with FERC’s order by obtaining executed transmission service agreements for firm point-to-point transmission service for the 2011-2012 delivery year and, as such, FirstEnergy satisfies the criteria to bid the Beaver Valley Plant into the May 2008 RPM auction. Notwithstanding these events, on April 30, 2008 and May 1, 2008, certain members of the PJM Power Providers Group filed further pleadings on these issues. On May 2, 2008, FirstEnergy filed a responsive pleading. FirstEnergy is participating in the May 2008 RPM auction for the 2011-2012 RPM delivery year.
MISO Resource Adequacy Proposal
MISO made a filing on December 28, 2007 that would create an enforceable planning reserve requirement in the MISO tariff for load serving entities such as the Ohio Companies, Penn Power, and FES. This requirement is proposed to become effective for the planning year beginning June 1, 2009. The filing would permit MISO to establish the reserve margin requirement for load serving entities based upon a one day loss of load in ten years standard, unless the state utility regulatory agency establishes a different planning reserve for load serving entities in its state. FirstEnergy generally supports the proposal as it promotes a mechanism that will result in long-term commitments from both load-serving entities and resources, including both generation and demand side resources that are necessary for reliable resource adequacy and planning in the MISO footprint. Comments on the filing were filed on January 28, 2008. The FERC approved MISO’s Resource Adequacy proposal on March 26, 2008. Rehearing requests are pending on the FERC’s March 26 Order. A compliance filing establishing the enforcement mechanism for the reserve margin requirement is due on or before June 25, 2008.
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Organized Wholesale Power Markets
On February 21, 2008, the FERC issued a NOPR through which it proposes to adopt new rules that it states will “improve operations in organized electric markets, boost competition and bring additional benefits to consumers.” The proposed rule addresses demand response and market pricing during reserve shortages, long-term power contracting, market-monitoring policies, and responsiveness of RTOs and ISOs to stakeholders and customers. FES and the Companies do not believe that the proposed rule will have a significant impact on their operations. Comments on the NOPR were filed on April 18, 2008.
Environmental Matters
Various federal, state and local authorities regulate FES and the Companies with regard to air and water quality and other environmental matters. The effects of compliance on FES and the Companies with regard to environmental matters could have a material adverse effect on their earnings and competitive position to the extent that they compete with companies that are not subject to such regulations and, therefore, do not bear the risk of costs associated with compliance, or failure to comply, with such regulations. FES and the Companies estimate capital expenditures for environmental compliance of approximately $1.4 billion for the period 2008-2012.
FES and the Companies accrue environmental liabilities only when they conclude that it is probable that they have an obligation for such costs and can reasonably estimate the amount of such costs. Unasserted claims are reflected in FES’ and the Companies’ determination of environmental liabilities and are accrued in the period that they become both probable and reasonably estimable.
Clean Air Act Compliance (Applicable to FES)
FES is required to meet federally-approved SO2 emissions regulations. Violations of such regulations can result in the shutdown of the generating unit involved and/or civil or criminal penalties of up to $32,500 for each day the unit is in violation. The EPA has an interim enforcement policy for SO2 regulations in Ohio that allows for compliance based on a 30-day averaging period. FES believes it is currently in compliance with this policy, but cannot predict what action the EPA may take in the future with respect to the interim enforcement policy.
The EPA Region 5 issued a Finding of Violation and NOV to the Bay Shore Power Plant dated June 15, 2006, alleging violations to various sections of the CAA. FES has disputed those alleged violations based on its CAA permit, the Ohio SIP and other information provided to the EPA at an August 2006 meeting with the EPA. The EPA has several enforcement options (administrative compliance order, administrative penalty order, and/or judicial, civil or criminal action) and has indicated that such option may depend on the time needed to achieve and demonstrate compliance with the rules alleged to have been violated. On June 5, 2007, the EPA requested another meeting to discuss “an appropriate compliance program” and a disagreement regarding the opacity limit applicable to the common stack for Bay Shore Units 2, 3 and 4.
FES complies with SO2 reduction requirements under the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 by burning lower-sulfur fuel, generating more electricity from lower-emitting plants, and/or using emission allowances. NOX reductions required by the 1990 Amendments are being achieved through combustion controls and the generation of more electricity at lower-emitting plants. In September 1998, the EPA finalized regulations requiring additional NOX reductions at FES' facilities. The EPA's NOX Transport Rule imposes uniform reductions of NOX emissions (an approximate 85% reduction in utility plant NOX emissions from projected 2007 emissions) across a region of nineteen states (including Michigan, New Jersey, Ohio and Pennsylvania) and the District of Columbia based on a conclusion that such NOX emissions are contributing significantly to ozone levels in the eastern United States. FES believes its facilities are also complying with the NOX budgets established under SIPs through combustion controls and post-combustion controls, including Selective Catalytic Reduction and SNCR systems, and/or using emission allowances.
On May 22, 2007, FirstEnergy and FGCO received a notice letter, required 60 days prior to the filing of a citizen suit under the federal CAA, alleging violations of air pollution laws at the Bruce Mansfield Plant, including opacity limitations. Prior to the receipt of this notice, the Plant was subject to a Consent Order and Agreement with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection concerning opacity emissions under which efforts to achieve compliance with the applicable laws will continue. On October 18, 2007, PennFuture filed a complaint, joined by three of its members, in the United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania. On January 11, 2008, FirstEnergy filed a motion to dismiss claims alleging a public nuisance. On April 24, 2008, the Court denied the motion to dismiss, but also ruled that monetary damages could not be recovered under the public nuisance claim.
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On December 18, 2007, the state of New Jersey filed a CAA citizen suit alleging NSR violations at the Portland Generation Station against Reliant (the current owner and operator), Sithe Energy (the purchaser of the Portland Station from Met-Ed in 1999), GPU, Inc. and Met-Ed. Specifically, New Jersey alleges that "modifications" at Portland Units 1 and 2 occurred between 1980 and 1995 without preconstruction NSR or permitting under the CAA's prevention of significant deterioration program, and seeks injunctive relief, penalties, attorney fees and mitigation of the harm caused by excess emissions. On March 14, 2008, Met-Ed filed a motion to dismiss the citizen suit claims against it and a stipulation in which the parties agreed that GPU, Inc. should be dismissed from this case. On March 26, 2008, GPU, Inc. was dismissed by the Court. Although it remains liable for civil or criminal penalties and fines that may be assessed relating to events prior to the sale of the Portland Station in 1999, Met-Ed is indemnified by Sithe Energy against any other liability arising under the CAA whether it arises out of pre-1999 or post-1999 events.
National Ambient Air Quality Standards (Applicable to FES)
In March 2005, the EPA finalized the CAIR covering a total of 28 states (including Michigan, New Jersey, Ohio and Pennsylvania) and the District of Columbia based on proposed findings that air emissions from 28 eastern states and the District of Columbia significantly contribute to non-attainment of the NAAQS for fine particles and/or the "8-hour" ozone NAAQS in other states. CAIR requires reductions of NOX and SO2 emissions in two phases (Phase I in 2009 for NOX, 2010 for SO2 and Phase II in 2015 for both NOX and SO2). FES' Michigan, Ohio and Pennsylvania fossil generation facilities will be subject to caps on SO2 and NOX emissions. According to the EPA, SO2 emissions will be reduced by 45% (from 2003 levels) by 2010 across the states covered by the rule, with reductions reaching 73% (from 2003 levels) by 2015, capping SO2 emissions in affected states to just 2.5 million tons annually. NOX emissions will be reduced by 53% (from 2003 levels) by 2009 across the states covered by the rule, with reductions reaching 61% (from 2003 levels) by 2015, achieving a regional NOX cap of 1.3 million tons annually. CAIR has been challenged in the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia. The future cost of compliance with these regulations may be substantial and may depend on the outcome of this litigation and how CAIR is ultimately implemented.
Mercury Emissions (Applicable to FES)
In December 2000, the EPA announced it would proceed with the development of regulations regarding hazardous air pollutants from electric power plants, identifying mercury as the hazardous air pollutant of greatest concern. In March 2005, the EPA finalized the CAMR, which provides a cap-and-trade program to reduce mercury emissions from coal-fired power plants in two phases; initially, capping national mercury emissions at 38 tons by 2010 (as a "co-benefit" from implementation of SO2 and NOX emission caps under the EPA's CAIR program) and 15 tons per year by 2018. Several states and environmental groups appealed the CAMR to the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia. On February 8, 2008, the court vacated the CAMR, ruling that the EPA failed to take the necessary steps to “de-list” coal-fired power plants from its hazardous air pollutant program and, therefore, could not promulgate a cap and trade program. The EPA must now seek further judicial review of that ruling or take regulatory action to promulgate new mercury emission standards for coal-fired power plants. FGCO’s future cost of compliance with mercury regulations may be substantial and will depend on the action taken by the EPA and on how they are ultimately implemented.
Pennsylvania has submitted a new mercury rule for EPA approval that does not provide a cap-and-trade approach as in the CAMR, but rather follows a command-and-control approach imposing emission limits on individual sources. It is anticipated that compliance with these regulations, if approved by the EPA and implemented, would not require the addition of mercury controls at the Bruce Mansfield Plant, FES’ only Pennsylvania coal-fired power plant, until 2015, if at all.
W. H. Sammis Plant (Applicable to FES, OE and Penn)
In 1999 and 2000, the EPA issued an NOV and the DOJ filed a civil complaint against OE and Penn based on operation and maintenance of the W.H. Sammis Plant (Sammis NSR Litigation) and filed similar complaints involving 44 other U.S. power plants. This case, along with seven other similar cases, are referred to as the NSR cases.
On March 18, 2005, OE and Penn announced that they had reached a settlement with the EPA, the DOJ and three states (Connecticut, New Jersey and New York) that resolved all issues related to the Sammis NSR litigation. This settlement agreement, which is in the form of a consent decree, was approved by the court on July 11, 2005, and requires reductions of NOX and SO2 emissions at the Sammis, Burger, Eastlake and Mansfield coal-fired plants through the installation of pollution control devices and provides for stipulated penalties for failure to install and operate such pollution controls in accordance with that agreement. Consequently, if FirstEnergy fails to install such pollution control devices, for any reason, including, but not limited to, the failure of any third-party contractor to timely meet its delivery obligations for such devices, FGCO, OE and Penn could be exposed to penalties under the Sammis NSR Litigation consent decree. Capital expenditures necessary to complete requirements of the Sammis NSR Litigation consent decree are currently estimated to be $1.3 billion for FGCO for 2008-2012 ($650 million of which is expected to be spent during 2008, with the largest portion of the remaining $650 million expected to be spent in 2009). This amount is included in the estimated capital expenditures for environmental compliance referenced above.
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On April 2, 2007, the United States Supreme Court ruled that changes in annual emissions (in tons/year) rather than changes in hourly emissions rate (in kilograms/hour) must be used to determine whether an emissions increase triggers NSR. Subsequently, on May 8, 2007, the EPA proposed to revise the NSR regulations to utilize changes in the hourly emission rate (in kilograms/hour) to determine whether an emissions increase triggers NSR. The EPA has not yet issued a final regulation. FGCO’s future cost of compliance with those regulations may be substantial and will depend on how they are ultimately implemented.
Climate Change (Applicable to FES)
In December 1997, delegates to the United Nations' climate summit in Japan adopted an agreement, the Kyoto Protocol, to address global warming by reducing the amount of man-made GHG emitted by developed countries by 2012. The United States signed the Kyoto Protocol in 1998 but it failed to receive the two-thirds vote required for ratification by the United States Senate. However, the Bush administration has committed the United States to a voluntary climate change strategy to reduce domestic GHG intensity – the ratio of emissions to economic output – by 18% through 2012. Also, in an April 16, 2008 speech, President Bush set a policy goal of stopping the growth of GHG emissions by 2025, as the next step beyond the 2012 strategy. In addition, the EPACT established a Committee on Climate Change Technology to coordinate federal climate change activities and promote the development and deployment of GHG reducing technologies.
There are a number of initiatives to reduce GHG emissions under consideration at the federal, state and international level. At the international level, efforts to reach a new global agreement to reduce GHG emissions post-2012 have begun with the Bali Roadmap, which outlines a two-year process designed to lead to an agreement in 2009. At the federal level, members of Congress have introduced several bills seeking to reduce emissions of GHG in the United States, and the Senate Environmental and Public Works Committees have passed one such bill. State activities, primarily the northeastern states participating in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative and western states led by California, have coordinated efforts to develop regional strategies to control emissions of certain GHGs.
On April 2, 2007, the United States Supreme Court found that the EPA has the authority to regulate CO2 emissions from automobiles as “air pollutants” under the CAA. Although this decision did not address CO2 emissions from electric generating plants, the EPA has similar authority under the CAA to regulate “air pollutants” from those and other facilities.
FES cannot currently estimate the financial impact of climate change policies, although potential legislative or regulatory programs restricting CO2 emissions could require significant capital and other expenditures. The CO2 emissions per KWH of electricity generated by FES is lower than many regional competitors due to its diversified generation sources, which include low or non-CO2 emitting gas-fired and nuclear generators.
Clean Water Act (Applicable to FES)
Various water quality regulations, the majority of which are the result of the federal Clean Water Act and its amendments, apply to FES’ plants. In addition, Ohio, New Jersey and Pennsylvania have water quality standards applicable to FES' operations. As provided in the Clean Water Act, authority to grant federal National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System water discharge permits can be assumed by a state. Ohio, New Jersey and Pennsylvania have assumed such authority.
On September 7, 2004, the EPA established new performance standards under Section 316(b) of the Clean Water Act for reducing impacts on fish and shellfish from cooling water intake structures at certain existing large electric generating plants. The regulations call for reductions in impingement mortality (when aquatic organisms are pinned against screens or other parts of a cooling water intake system) and entrainment (which occurs when aquatic life is drawn into a facility's cooling water system). On January 26, 2007, the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit remanded portions of the rulemaking dealing with impingement mortality and entrainment back to the EPA for further rulemaking and eliminated the restoration option from the EPA’s regulations. On July 9, 2007, the EPA suspended this rule, noting that until further rulemaking occurs, permitting authorities should continue the existing practice of applying their best professional judgment (BPJ) to minimize impacts on fish and shellfish from cooling water intake structures. On April 14, 2008, the Supreme Court of the United States granted a petition for a writ of certiorari to review certain aspects of the Second Circuit’s decision. FirstEnergy is studying various control options and their costs and effectiveness. Depending on the results of such studies, the outcome of the Supreme Court’s review of the Second Circuit’s decision, the EPA’s further rulemaking and any action taken by the states exercising BPJ, the future costs of compliance with these standards may require material capital expenditures.
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Regulation of Hazardous Waste (Applicable to FES and each of the Companies)
As a result of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976, as amended, and the Toxic Substances Control Act of 1976, federal and state hazardous waste regulations have been promulgated. Certain fossil-fuel combustion waste products, such as coal ash, were exempted from hazardous waste disposal requirements pending the EPA's evaluation of the need for future regulation. The EPA subsequently determined that regulation of coal ash as a hazardous waste is unnecessary. In April 2000, the EPA announced that it will develop national standards regulating disposal of coal ash under its authority to regulate non-hazardous waste.
Under NRC regulations, FES and the Companies must ensure that adequate funds will be available to decommission its nuclear facilities. As of March 31, 2008, FES and the Companies had approximately $2.0 billion invested in external trusts to be used for the decommissioning and environmental remediation of Davis-Besse, Beaver Valley, Perry and TMI-2. As part of the application to the NRC to transfer the ownership of Davis-Besse, Beaver Valley and Perry to NGC in 2005, FirstEnergy agreed to contribute another $80 million to these trusts by 2010. Consistent with NRC guidance, utilizing a “real” rate of return on these funds of approximately 2% over inflation, these trusts are expected to exceed the minimum decommissioning funding requirements set by the NRC. Conservatively, these estimates do not include any rate of return that the trusts may earn over the 20-year plant useful life extensions that FirstEnergy and FES (and Exelon for TMI-1 as it relates to the timing of the decommissioning of TMI-2) seeks for these facilities.
The Companies have been named as PRPs at waste disposal sites, which may require cleanup under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980. Allegations of disposal of hazardous substances at historical sites and the liability involved are often unsubstantiated and subject to dispute; however, federal law provides that all PRPs for a particular site may be liable on a joint and several basis. Therefore, environmental liabilities that are considered probable have been recognized on the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of March 31, 2008, based on estimates of the total costs of cleanup, the Companies' proportionate responsibility for such costs and the financial ability of other unaffiliated entities to pay. Total liabilities of approximately $92 million (JCP&L - $65 million, TE - $1 million, CEI - $1 million and FirstEnergy Corp. - $25 million) have been accrued through March 31, 2008. Included in the total for JCP&L are accrued liabilities of approximately $56 million for environmental remediation of former manufactured gas plants in New Jersey; which are being recovered by JCP&L through a non-bypassable SBC.
Other Legal Proceedings
Power Outages and Related Litigation (Applicable to JCP&L)
In July 1999, the Mid-Atlantic States experienced a severe heat wave, which resulted in power outages throughout the service territories of many electric utilities, including JCP&L's territory. In an investigation into the causes of the outages and the reliability of the transmission and distribution systems of all four of New Jersey’s electric utilities, the NJBPU concluded that there was not a prima facie case demonstrating that, overall, JCP&L provided unsafe, inadequate or improper service to its customers. Two class action lawsuits (subsequently consolidated into a single proceeding) were filed in New Jersey Superior Court in July 1999 against JCP&L, GPU and other GPU companies, seeking compensatory and punitive damages arising from the July 1999 service interruptions in the JCP&L territory.
In August 2002, the trial court granted partial summary judgment to JCP&L and dismissed the plaintiffs' claims for consumer fraud, common law fraud, negligent misrepresentation, and strict product liability. In November 2003, the trial court granted JCP&L's motion to decertify the class and denied plaintiffs' motion to permit into evidence their class-wide damage model indicating damages in excess of $50 million. These class decertification and damage rulings were appealed to the Appellate Division. The Appellate Division issued a decision in July 2004, affirming the decertification of the originally certified class, but remanding for certification of a class limited to those customers directly impacted by the outages of JCP&L transformers in Red Bank, NJ, based on a common incident involving the failure of the bushings of two large transformers in the Red Bank substation resulting in planned and unplanned outages in the area during a 2-3 day period. In 2005, JCP&L renewed its motion to decertify the class based on a very limited number of class members who incurred damages and also filed a motion for summary judgment on the remaining plaintiffs’ claims for negligence, breach of contract and punitive damages. In July 2006, the New Jersey Superior Court dismissed the punitive damage claim and again decertified the class based on the fact that a vast majority of the class members did not suffer damages and those that did would be more appropriately addressed in individual actions. Plaintiffs appealed this ruling to the New Jersey Appellate Division which, in March 2007, reversed the decertification of the Red Bank class and remanded this matter back to the Trial Court to allow plaintiffs sufficient time to establish a damage model or individual proof of damages. JCP&L filed a petition for allowance of an appeal of the Appellate Division ruling to the New Jersey Supreme Court which was denied in May 2007. Proceedings are continuing in the Superior Court and a case management conference with the presiding Judge is scheduled for June 13, 2008. JCP&L is defending this class action but is unable to predict the outcome of this matter. No liability has been accrued as of March 31, 2008.
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Nuclear Plant Matters (Applicable to FES)
On May 14, 2007, the Office of Enforcement of the NRC issued a DFI to FENOC, following FENOC’s reply to an April 2, 2007 NRC request for information, about two reports prepared by expert witnesses for an insurance arbitration (the insurance claim was subsequently withdrawn by FirstEnergy in December 2007) related to Davis-Besse. The NRC indicated that this information was needed for the NRC “to determine whether an Order or other action should be taken pursuant to 10 CFR 2.202, to provide reasonable assurance that FENOC will continue to operate its licensed facilities in accordance with the terms of its licenses and the Commission’s regulations.” FENOC was directed to submit the information to the NRC within 30 days. On June 13, 2007, FENOC filed a response to the NRC’s DFI reaffirming that it accepts full responsibility for the mistakes and omissions leading up to the damage to the reactor vessel head and that it remains committed to operating Davis-Besse and FirstEnergy’s other nuclear plants safely and responsibly. FENOC submitted a supplemental response clarifying certain aspects of the DFI response to the NRC on July 16, 2007. On August 15, 2007, the NRC issued a confirmatory order imposing these commitments. FENOC must inform the NRC’s Office of Enforcement after it completes the key commitments embodied in the NRC’s order. FENOC’s compliance with these commitments is subject to future NRC review.
Other Legal Matters (Applicable to OE, JCP&L and FES)
There are various lawsuits, claims (including claims for asbestos exposure) and proceedings related to FirstEnergy's normal business operations pending against FirstEnergy and its subsidiaries. The other potentially material items not otherwise discussed above are described below.
On August 22, 2005, a class action complaint was filed against OE in Jefferson County, Ohio Common Pleas Court, seeking compensatory and punitive damages to be determined at trial based on claims of negligence and eight other tort counts alleging damages from W.H. Sammis Plant air emissions. The two named plaintiffs are also seeking injunctive relief to eliminate harmful emissions and repair property damage and the institution of a medical monitoring program for class members. On April 5, 2007, the Court rejected the plaintiffs’ request to certify this case as a class action and, accordingly, did not appoint the plaintiffs as class representatives or their counsel as class counsel. On July 30, 2007, plaintiffs’ counsel voluntarily withdrew their request for reconsideration of the April 5, 2007 Court order denying class certification and the Court heard oral argument on the plaintiffs’ motion to amend their complaint which OE opposed. On August 2, 2007, the Court denied the plaintiffs’ motion to amend their complaint. The plaintiffs have appealed the Court’s denial of the motion for certification as a class action and motion to amend their complaint.
JCP&L's bargaining unit employees filed a grievance challenging JCP&L's 2002 call-out procedure that required bargaining unit employees to respond to emergency power outages. On May 20, 2004, an arbitration panel concluded that the call-out procedure violated the parties' collective bargaining agreement. At the conclusion of the June 1, 2005 hearing, the arbitration panel decided not to hear testimony on damages and closed the proceedings. On September 9, 2005, the arbitration panel issued an opinion to award approximately $16 million to the bargaining unit employees. On February 6, 2006, a federal district court granted a union motion to dismiss, as premature, a JCP&L appeal of the award filed on October 18, 2005. A final order identifying the individual damage amounts was issued on October 31, 2007. The award appeal process was initiated. The union filed a motion with the federal court to confirm the award and JCP&L filed its answer and counterclaim to vacate the award on December 31, 2007. The court held a scheduling conference in April 2008 where it set a briefing schedule with all briefs to be concluded by July 2008. JCP&L recognized a liability for the potential $16 million award in 2005.
The union employees at the Bruce Mansfield Plant have been working without a labor contract since February 15, 2008. The parties are continuing to bargain with the assistance of a federal mediator. FirstEnergy has a strike mitigation plan ready in the event of a strike.
FirstEnergy accrues legal liabilities only when it concludes that it is probable that it has an obligation for such costs and can reasonably estimate the amount of such costs. If it were ultimately determined that FirstEnergy or its subsidiaries have legal liability or are otherwise made subject to liability based on the above matters, it could have a material adverse effect on FirstEnergy's or its subsidiaries' financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
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New Accounting Standards and Interpretations (Applicable to FES and each of the Companies)
SFAS 141(R) – “Business Combinations”
In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS 141(R), which requires the acquiring entity in a business combination to recognize all the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the transaction; establishes the acquisition-date fair value as the measurement objective for all assets acquired and liabilities assumed; and requires the acquirer to disclose to investors and other users all of the information they need to evaluate and understand the nature and financial effect of the business combination. SFAS 141(R) attempts to reduce the complexity of existing GAAP related to business combinations. The Standard includes both core principles and pertinent application guidance, eliminating the need for numerous EITF issues and other interpretative guidance. SFAS 141(R) will affect business combinations entered into by FES or any of the Companies that close after January 1, 2009. In addition, the Standard also affects the accounting for changes in tax valuation allowances made after January 1, 2009, that were established as part of a business combination prior to the implementation of this Standard. FES and the Companies are currently evaluating the impact of adopting this Standard on their financial statements.
SFAS 160 - “Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements – an Amendment of ARB No. 51”
In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS 160 that establishes accounting and reporting standards for the noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary and for the deconsolidation of a subsidiary. It clarifies that a noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary is an ownership interest in the consolidated entity that should be reported as equity in the consolidated financial statements. This Statement is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning on or after December 15, 2008. Early adoption is prohibited. The Statement is not expected to have a material impact on FES’ or the Companies’ financial statements.
SFAS 161 - “Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities – an Amendment of FASB Statement No. 133” |
In March 2008, the FASB issued SFAS 161, which enhances the current disclosure framework for derivative instruments and hedging activities. The Statement requires that objectives for using derivative instruments be disclosed in terms of underlying risk and accounting designation. This disclosure better conveys the purpose of derivative use in terms of the risks that the entity is intending to manage. The FASB believes disclosing the fair values of derivative instruments and their gains and losses in a tabular format is designed to provide a more complete picture of the location in an entity’s financial statements of both the derivative positions existing at period end and the effect of using derivatives during the reporting period. Disclosing information about credit-risk-related contingent features is designed to provide information on the potential effect on an entity’s liquidity from using derivatives. Finally, this Statement requires cross-referencing within the footnotes, which is intended to help users of financial statements locate important information about derivative instruments. FES and the Companies are currently evaluating the impact of adopting this Standard on their financial statements.
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COMBINED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)
1. ORGANIZATION AND BASIS OF PRESENTATION
FirstEnergy is a diversified energy company that holds, directly or indirectly, all of the outstanding common stock of its principal subsidiaries: OE, CEI, TE, Penn (a wholly owned subsidiary of OE), ATSI, JCP&L, Met-Ed, Penelec, FENOC, FES and its subsidiaries FGCO and NGC, and FESC.
FirstEnergy and its subsidiaries follow GAAP and comply with the regulations, orders, policies and practices prescribed by the SEC, the FERC and, as applicable, the PUCO, the PPUC and the NJBPU. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make periodic estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. Actual results could differ from these estimates. The reported results of operations are not indicative of results of operations for any future period.
These statements should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and notes included in the combined Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007 for FirstEnergy, FES and the Companies. The consolidated unaudited financial statements of FirstEnergy, FES and each of the Companies reflect all normal recurring adjustments that, in the opinion of management, are necessary to fairly present results of operations for the interim periods. Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation. Unless otherwise indicated, defined terms used herein have the meanings set forth in the accompanying Glossary of Terms.
FirstEnergy and its subsidiaries consolidate all majority-owned subsidiaries over which they exercise control and, when applicable, entities for which they have a controlling financial interest. Intercompany transactions and balances are eliminated in consolidation. FirstEnergy consolidates a VIE (see Note 8) when it is determined to be the VIE's primary beneficiary. Investments in non-consolidated affiliates over which FirstEnergy and its subsidiaries have the ability to exercise significant influence, but not control (20-50% owned companies, joint ventures and partnerships) follow the equity method of accounting. Under the equity method, the interest in the entity is reported as an investment in the Consolidated Balance Sheets and the percentage share of the entity’s earnings is reported in the Consolidated Statements of Income.
The consolidated financial statements as of March 31, 2008 and for the three-month periods ended March 31, 2008 and 2007 have been reviewed by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm. Their report (dated May 7, 2008) is included herein. The report of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP states that they did not audit and they do not express an opinion on that unaudited financial information. Accordingly, the degree of reliance on their report on such information should be restricted in light of the limited nature of the review procedures applied. PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP is not subject to the liability provisions of Section 11 of the Securities Act of 1933 for their report on the unaudited financial information because that report is not a “report” or a “part” of a registration statement prepared or certified by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP within the meaning of Sections 7 and 11 of the Securities Act of 1933.
2. EARNINGS PER SHARE
Basic earnings per share of common stock is computed using the weighted average of actual common shares outstanding during the respective period as the denominator. The denominator for diluted earnings per share of common stock reflects the weighted average of common shares outstanding plus the potential additional common shares that could result if dilutive securities and other agreements to issue common stock were exercised. The pool of stock-based compensation tax benefits is calculated in accordance with SFAS 123(R). On March 2, 2007, FirstEnergy repurchased approximately 14.4 million shares, or 4.5%, of its outstanding common stock through an accelerated share repurchase program at an initial price of approximately $900 million. A final purchase price adjustment of $51 million was settled in cash on December 13, 2007. The following table reconciles basic and diluted earnings per share of common stock:
Reconciliation of Basic and Diluted | Three Months Ended March 31, | ||||||
Earnings per Share of Common Stock | 2008 | 2007 | |||||
(In millions, except per share amounts) | |||||||
Net income | $ | 276 | $ | 290 | |||
Average shares of common stock outstanding – Basic | 304 | 314 | |||||
Assumed exercise of dilutive stock options and awards | 3 | 2 | |||||
Average shares of common stock outstanding – Dilutive | 307 | 316 | |||||
Basic earnings per share of common stock | $ | 0.91 | $ | 0.92 | |||
Diluted earnings per share of common stock | $ | 0.90 | $ | 0.92 |
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3. DIVESTITURES AND DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
On March 7, 2008, FirstEnergy sold certain telecommunication assets, resulting in a net after-tax gain of $19.3 million. As a result of the sale, FirstEnergy adjusted goodwill by $1 million for the former GPU companies due to the realization of tax benefits that had been reserved in purchase accounting. The sale of assets did not meet the criteria for classification as discontinued operations as of March 31, 2008.
4. FAIR VALUE MEASURES
Effective January 1, 2008, FirstEnergy adopted SFAS 157, which provides a framework for measuring fair value under GAAP and, among other things, requires enhanced disclosures about assets and liabilities recognized at fair value. FirstEnergy also adopted SFAS 159 on January 1, 2008, which provides the option to measure certain financial assets and financial liabilities at fair value. FirstEnergy has analyzed its financial assets and financial liabilities within the scope of SFAS 159 and, as of March 31, 2008, has elected not to record eligible assets and liabilities at fair value.
As defined in SFAS 157, fair value is the price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between willing market participants on the measurement date. SFAS 157 establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs used to measure fair value. The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3). The three levels of the fair value hierarchy defined by SFAS 157 are as follows:
Level 1 – Quoted prices are available in active markets for identical assets or liabilities as of the reporting date. Active markets are those where transactions for the asset or liability occur in sufficient frequency and volume to provide pricing information on an ongoing basis. FirstEnergy’s Level 1 assets and liabilities primarily consist of exchange-traded derivatives and equity securities listed on active exchanges that are held in various trusts.
Level 2 – Pricing inputs are either directly or indirectly observable in the market as of the reporting date, other than quoted prices in active markets included in Level 1. FirstEnergy’s Level 2 consists primarily of investments in debt securities held in various trusts and commodity forwards. Additionally, Level 2 includes those financial instruments that are valued using models or other valuation methodologies based on assumptions that are observable in the marketplace throughout the full term of the instrument, can be derived from observable data or are supported by observable levels at which transactions are executed in the marketplace. These models are primarily industry-standard models that consider various assumptions, including quoted forward prices for commodities, time value, volatility factors, and current market and contractual prices for the underlying instruments, as well as other relevant economic measures. Instruments in this category include non-exchange-traded derivatives such as forwards and certain interest rate swaps.
Level 3 – Pricing inputs include inputs that are generally less observable from objective sources. These inputs may be used with internally developed methodologies that result in management’s best estimate of fair value. FirstEnergy develops its view of the future market price of key commodities through a combination of market observation and assessment (generally for the short term) and fundamental modeling (generally for the longer term). Key fundamental electricity model inputs are generally directly observable in the market or derived from publicly available historic and forecast data. Some key inputs reflect forecasts published by industry leading consultants who generally employ similar fundamental modeling approaches. Fundamental model inputs and results, as well as the selection of consultants, reflect the consensus of appropriate FirstEnergy management. Level 3 instruments include those that may be more structured or otherwise tailored to customers’ needs. FirstEnergy’s Level 3 instruments consist of NUG contracts.
FirstEnergy utilizes market data and assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability, including assumptions about risk and the risks inherent in the inputs to the valuation technique. These inputs can be readily observable, market corroborated, or generally unobservable. FirstEnergy primarily applies the market approach for recurring fair value measurements using the best information available. Accordingly, FirstEnergy maximizes the use of observable inputs and minimizes the use of unobservable inputs.
The following table sets forth FirstEnergy’s financial assets and financial liabilities that are accounted for at fair value by level within the fair value hierarchy as of March 31, 2008. As required by SFAS 157, assets and liabilities are classified in their entirety based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. FirstEnergy’s assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement requires judgment and may affect the valuation of fair value assets and liabilities and their placement within the fair value hierarchy levels.
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March 31, 2008 | |||||||||||||
Recurring Fair Value Measures | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||
(In millions) | |||||||||||||
Assets: | |||||||||||||
Derivatives | $ | 4 | $ | 98 | $ | - | $ | 102 | |||||
Nuclear decommissioning trusts(1) | 1,070 | 953 | - | 2,023 | |||||||||
Other investments(2) | 21 | 303 | - | 324 | |||||||||
Total | $ | 1,095 | $ | 1,354 | $ | - | $ | 2,449 | |||||
Liabilities: | |||||||||||||
Derivatives | $ | - | $ | 98 | $ | - | $ | 98 | |||||
NUG contracts(3) | - | - | 682 | 682 | |||||||||
Total | $ | - | $ | 98 | $ | 682 | $ | 780 |
(1) | Balance excludes $2 million of receivables, payables and accrued income. |
(2) | Excludes $318 million of the cash surrender value of life insurance contracts. |
(3) | NUG contracts are completely offset by regulatory assets. |
The determination of the above fair value measures takes into consideration various factors required under SFAS 157. These factors include the credit standing of the counterparties involved, the impact of credit enhancements (such as cash deposits, LOCs and priority interests) and the impact of nonperformance risk.
Exchange-traded derivative contracts, which include some futures and options, are generally based on unadjusted quoted market prices in active markets and are classified within Level 1. Forwards, options and swap contracts that are not exchange-traded are classified as Level 2 as the fair values of these items are based on ICE quotes or market transactions in the OTC markets. In addition, complex or longer term structured transactions can introduce the need for internally-developed model inputs that may not be observable in or corroborated by the market. When such inputs have a significant impact on the measurement of fair value, the instrument is classified as Level 3.
Nuclear decommissioning trusts consist of equity securities listed on active exchanges classified as Level 1 and various debt securities and collective trusts classified as Level 2. Other investments represent the NUG trusts, spent nuclear fuel trusts and rabbi trust investments, which primarily consist of various debt securities and collective trusts classified as Level 2.
The following table sets forth a reconciliation of changes in the fair value of NUG contracts classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy for the three months ended March 31, 2008 (in millions):
Balance as of January 1, 2008 | $ | 750 | ||
Realized and unrealized gains (losses)(1) | (58 | ) | ||
Purchases, sales, issuances and settlements, net(1) | (10 | ) | ||
Net transfers to (from) Level 3 | - | |||
Balance as of March 31, 2008 | $ | 682 | ||
Change in unrealized gains (losses) relating to | ||||
instruments held as of March 31, 2008 | $ | (58 | ) | |
(1) Changes in the fair value of NUG contracts are completely offset by regulatory assets and do not impact earnings. |
Under FSP FAS 157-2, FirstEnergy has elected to defer, for one year, the election of SFAS 157 for financial assets and financial liabilities measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis. FirstEnergy is currently evaluating the impact of FAS 157 on those financial assets and financial liabilities measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis.
5. DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS
FirstEnergy is exposed to financial risks resulting from the fluctuation of interest rates and commodity prices, including prices for electricity, natural gas, coal and energy transmission. To manage the volatility relating to these exposures, FirstEnergy uses a variety of derivative instruments, including forward contracts, options, futures contracts and swaps. The derivatives are used principally for hedging purposes. FirstEnergy's Risk Policy Committee, comprised of members of senior management, provides general management oversight for risk management activities throughout FirstEnergy. They are responsible for promoting the effective design and implementation of sound risk management programs. They also oversee compliance with corporate risk management policies and established risk management practices.
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FirstEnergy accounts for derivative instruments on its Consolidated Balance Sheet at their fair value unless they meet the normal purchases and normal sales criteria. Derivatives that meet those criteria are accounted for at cost. The changes in the fair value of derivative instruments that do not meet the normal purchases and normal sales criteria are recorded as other expense, as AOCL, or as part of the value of the hedged item, depending on whether or not it is designated as part of a hedge transaction, the nature of the hedge transaction and hedge effectiveness. FirstEnergy does not offset fair value for the right to reclaim collateral or the obligation to return collateral.
FirstEnergy hedges anticipated transactions using cash flow hedges. Such transactions include hedges of anticipated electricity and natural gas purchases and anticipated interest payments associated with future debt issues. The effective portion of such hedges are initially recorded in equity as other comprehensive income or loss and are subsequently included in net income as the underlying hedged commodities are delivered or interest payments are made. Gains and losses from any ineffective portion of cash flow hedges are included directly in earnings.
The net deferred losses of $84 million included in AOCL as of March 31, 2008, for derivative hedging activity, as compared to $75 million as of December 31, 2007, resulted from a net $21 million increase related to current hedging activity and a $12 million decrease due to net hedge losses reclassified to earnings during the three months ended March 31, 2008. Based on current estimates, approximately $19 million (after tax) of the net deferred losses on derivative instruments in AOCL as of March 31, 2008 are expected to be reclassified to earnings during the next twelve months as hedged transactions occur. The fair value of these derivative instruments fluctuate from period to period based on various market factors.
FirstEnergy has entered into swaps that have been designated as fair value hedges of fixed-rate, long-term debt issues to protect against the risk of changes in the fair value of fixed-rate debt instruments due to lower interest rates. Swap maturities, call options, fixed interest rates received, and interest payment dates match those of the underlying debt obligations. As of March 31, 2008, FirstEnergy had interest rate swaps with an aggregate notional value of $250 million and a fair value of $5 million.
During 2007 and the first three months of 2008, FirstEnergy entered into several forward starting swap agreements (forward swaps) in order to hedge a portion of the consolidated interest rate risk associated with the anticipated issuance of variable-rate, short-term debt and fixed-rate, long-term debt securities by one or more of its subsidiaries as outstanding debt matures during 2008 and 2009. These derivatives are treated as cash flow hedges, protecting against the risk of changes in future interest payments resulting from changes in benchmark U.S. Treasury and LIBOR rates between the date of hedge inception and the date of the debt issuance. During the first three months of 2008, FirstEnergy terminated swaps with a notional value of $300 million and entered into swaps with a notional value of $500 million. FirstEnergy paid $18 million related to the terminations, $1 million of which was deemed ineffective and recognized in current period earnings. FirstEnergy will recognize the remaining $17 million loss over the life of the associated future debt. As of March 31, 2008, FirstEnergy had forward swaps with an aggregate notional amount of $600 million and a fair value of $(8) million.
6. ASSET RETIREMENT OBLIGATIONS
FirstEnergy has recognized applicable legal obligations under SFAS 143 for nuclear power plant decommissioning, reclamation of a sludge disposal pond and closure of two coal ash disposal sites. In addition, FirstEnergy has recognized conditional retirement obligations (primarily for asbestos remediation) in accordance with FIN 47.
The ARO liability of $1.3 billion as of March 31, 2008 is primarily related to the future nuclear decommissioning of the Beaver Valley, Davis-Besse, Perry and TMI-2 nuclear generating facilities. FirstEnergy utilized an expected cash flow approach to measure the fair value of the nuclear decommissioning ARO.
FirstEnergy maintains nuclear decommissioning trust funds that are legally restricted for purposes of settling the nuclear decommissioning ARO. As of March 31, 2008, the fair value of the decommissioning trust assets was approximately $2.0 billion.
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The following tables analyze changes to the ARO balance during the first quarters of 2008 and 2007, respectively.
ARO Reconciliation | FirstEnergy | FES | OE | CEI | TE | JCP&L | Met-Ed | Penelec | |||||||||||||||||
(In millions) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance, January 1, 2008 | $ | 1,267 | $ | 810 | $ | 94 | $ | 2 | $ | 28 | $ | 90 | $ | 161 | $ | 82 | |||||||||
Liabilities incurred | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | |||||||||||||||||
Liabilities settled | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | |||||||||||||||||
Accretion | 20 | 14 | 1 | - | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | |||||||||||||||||
Revisions in estimated cash flows | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | |||||||||||||||||
Balance, March 31, 2008 | $ | 1,287 | $ | 824 | $ | 95 | $ | 2 | $ | 29 | $ | 91 | $ | 163 | $ | 83 | |||||||||
Balance, January 1, 2007 | $ | 1,190 | $ | 760 | $ | 88 | $ | 2 | $ | 27 | $ | 84 | $ | 151 | $ | 77 | |||||||||
Liabilities incurred | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | |||||||||||||||||
Liabilities settled | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | |||||||||||||||||
Accretion | 18 | 12 | 1 | - | - | 2 | 2 | 1 | |||||||||||||||||
Revisions in estimated cash flows | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | |||||||||||||||||
Balance, March 31, 2007 | $ | 1,208 | $ | 772 | $ | 89 | $ | 2 | $ | 27 | $ | 86 | $ | 153 | $ | 78 |
7. PENSION AND OTHER POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS
FirstEnergy provides noncontributory defined benefit pension plans that cover substantially all of its employees and those of its subsidiaries. The trusteed plans provide defined benefits based on years of service and compensation levels. FirstEnergy’s funding policy is based on actuarial computations using the projected unit credit method. FirstEnergy uses a December 31 measurement date for its pension and other postretirement benefit plans. The fair value of the plan assets represents the actual market value as of December 31, 2007. FirstEnergy also provides a minimum amount of noncontributory life insurance to retired employees in addition to optional contributory insurance. Health care benefits, which include certain employee contributions, deductibles and co-payments, are available upon retirement to employees hired prior to January 1, 2005, their dependents and, under certain circumstances, their survivors. FirstEnergy recognizes the expected cost of providing pension benefits and other postretirement benefits from the time employees are hired until they become eligible to receive those benefits. In addition, FirstEnergy has obligations to former or inactive employees after employment, but before retirement, for disability-related benefits.
The components of FirstEnergy's net periodic pension cost and other postretirement benefit cost (including amounts capitalized) for the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, consisted of the following:
Pension Benefits | Other Postretirement Benefits | ||||||||||||
2008 | 2007 | 2008 | 2007 | ||||||||||
(In millions) | |||||||||||||
Service cost | $ | 21 | $ | 21 | $ | 5 | $ | 5 | |||||
Interest cost | 72 | 71 | 18 | 17 | |||||||||
Expected return on plan assets | (115 | ) | (112 | ) | (13 | ) | (13 | ) | |||||
Amortization of prior service cost | 2 | 2 | (37 | ) | (37 | ) | |||||||
Recognized net actuarial loss | 1 | 10 | 12 | 12 | |||||||||
Net periodic cost (credit) | $ | (19 | ) | $ | (8) | $ | (15 | ) | $ | (16 | ) |
Pension and postretirement benefit obligations are allocated to FirstEnergy’s subsidiaries employing the plan participants. The Companies capitalize employee benefits related to construction projects. The net periodic pension costs and net periodic postretirement benefit costs (including amounts capitalized) recognized by each of the Companies for the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007 were as follows:
Pension Benefit Cost (Credit) | Other Postretirement Benefit Cost (Credit) | ||||||||||||
2008 | 2007 | 2008 | 2007 | ||||||||||
(In millions) | |||||||||||||
FES | $ | 4 | $ | - | $ | (2 | ) | $ | - | ||||
OE | (7 | ) | (4 | ) | (2 | ) | (3 | ) | |||||
CEI | (1 | ) | - | 1 | 1 | ||||||||
TE | (1 | ) | - | 1 | 1 | ||||||||
JCP&L | (4 | ) | (2 | ) | (4 | ) | (4 | ) | |||||
Met-Ed | (3 | ) | (2 | ) | (3 | ) | (2 | ) | |||||
Penelec | (3 | ) | (3 | ) | (3 | ) | (3 | ) | |||||
Other FirstEnergy subsidiaries | (4 | ) | 3 | (3 | ) | (6 | ) | ||||||
$ | (19 | ) | $ | (8 | ) | $ | (15 | ) | $ | (16 | ) |
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8. VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES
FIN 46R addresses the consolidation of VIEs, including special-purpose entities, that are not controlled through voting interests or in which the equity investors do not bear the entity's residual economic risks and rewards. FirstEnergy and its subsidiaries consolidate VIEs when they are determined to be the VIE's primary beneficiary as defined by FIN 46R.
Trusts
FirstEnergy’s consolidated financial statements include PNBV and Shippingport, VIEs created in 1996 and 1997, respectively, to refinance debt originally issued in connection with sale and leaseback transactions. PNBV and Shippingport financial data are included in the consolidated financial statements of OE and CEI, respectively.
PNBV was established to purchase a portion of the lease obligation bonds issued in connection with OE’s 1987 sale and leaseback of its interests in the Perry Plant and Beaver Valley Unit 2. OE used debt and available funds to purchase the notes issued by PNBV. Ownership of PNBV includes a 3% equity interest by an unaffiliated third party and a 3% equity interest held by OES Ventures, a wholly owned subsidiary of OE. Shippingport was established to purchase all of the lease obligation bonds issued in connection with CEI’s and TE’s Bruce Mansfield Plant sale and leaseback transaction in 1987. CEI and TE used debt and available funds to purchase the notes issued by Shippingport.
Loss Contingencies
FES and the Ohio Companies are exposed to losses under their applicable sale-leaseback agreements upon the occurrence of certain contingent events that each company considers unlikely to occur. The maximum exposure under these provisions represents the net amount of casualty value payments due upon the occurrence of specified casualty events that render the applicable plant worthless. Net discounted lease payments would not be payable if the casualty loss payments are made. The following table shows each company’s net exposure to loss based upon the casualty value provisions mentioned above as of March 31, 2008:
Maximum Exposure | Discounted Lease Payments, net | Net Exposure | |||||||
(in millions) | |||||||||
FES | $ | 1,364 | $ | 1,216 | $ | 148 | |||
OE | 819 | 628 | 191 | ||||||
CEI | 782 | 77 | 705 | ||||||
TE | 782 | 457 | 325 |
In October 2007, CEI and TE assigned their leasehold interests in the Bruce Mansfield Plant to FGCO. FGCO assumed all of CEI’s and TE’s obligations arising under those leases. FGCO subsequently transferred the Unit 1 portion of these leasehold interests, as well as FGCO’s leasehold interests under its July 2007 Bruce Mansfield Unit 1 sale and leaseback transaction to a newly formed wholly-owned subsidiary in December 2007. The subsidiary assumed all of the lessee obligations associated with the assigned interests. However, CEI and TE will remain primarily liable on the 1987 leases and related agreements as to the lessors and other parties to the agreements. FGCO remains primarily liable on the 2007 leases and related agreements, and FES remains primarily liable as a guarantor under the related 2007 guarantees, as to the lessors and other parties to the respective agreements. These assignments terminate automatically upon the termination of the underlying leases.
On March 3, 2008, notice was given to the nine owner trusts that are lessors under sale and leaseback transactions, originally entered into by TE in 1987, that NGC would acquire the related 18.26% undivided interest in Beaver Valley Unit 2 through the exercise of the periodic purchase option provided for in the applicable facility leases. The purchase price to be paid by NGC for the undivided interest will be equal to the higher of a specified casualty value under the applicable facility leases (approximately $239 million in the aggregate for the equity portion of all nine facility leases) and the fair market sales value of such undivided interests. Determination of the fair market sales value may become subject to an appraisal procedure provided for in the lease documentation. An additional payment of approximately $236 million would be required to prepay in full the outstanding principal of, and accrued but unpaid interest on, the lessor notes of the nine owner trusts. Alternatively, this amount would not be paid as part of the aggregate purchase price if the lessor notes are instead assumed at the time of the exercise of the option. If NGC determines to prepay the notes, it is possible that the proceeds from such prepayment may not be sufficient to pay the principal of, and interest on, the bonds as they become due. If that is the case, NGC would provide a mechanism to address any such potential shortfall in a timely manner.
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Power Purchase Agreements
In accordance with FIN 46R, FirstEnergy evaluated its power purchase agreements and determined that certain NUG entities may be VIEs to the extent they own a plant that sells substantially all of its output to the Companies and the contract price for power is correlated with the plant’s variable costs of production. FirstEnergy, through its subsidiaries JCP&L, Met-Ed and Penelec, maintains approximately 30 long-term power purchase agreements with NUG entities. The agreements were entered into pursuant to the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978. FirstEnergy was not involved in the creation of, and has no equity or debt invested in, these entities.
FirstEnergy has determined that for all but eight of these entities, neither JCP&L, Met-Ed nor Penelec have variable interests in the entities or the entities are governmental or not-for-profit organizations not within the scope of FIN 46R. JCP&L, Met-Ed or Penelec may hold variable interests in the remaining eight entities, which sell their output at variable prices that correlate to some extent with the operating costs of the plants. As required by FIN 46R, FirstEnergy periodically requests from these eight entities the information necessary to determine whether they are VIEs or whether JCP&L, Met-Ed or Penelec is the primary beneficiary. FirstEnergy has been unable to obtain the requested information, which in most cases was deemed by the requested entity to be proprietary. As such, FirstEnergy applied the scope exception that exempts enterprises unable to obtain the necessary information to evaluate entities under FIN 46R.
Since FirstEnergy has no equity or debt interests in the NUG entities, its maximum exposure to loss relates primarily to the above-market costs it may incur for power. FirstEnergy expects any above-market costs it incurs to be recovered from customers. Purchased power costs from these entities during the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007 are shown in the following table:
Three Months Ended | |||||||
March 31, | |||||||
2008 | 2007 | ||||||
(In millions) | |||||||
JCP&L | $ | 19 | $ | 20 | |||
Met-Ed | 16 | 15 | |||||
Penelec | 8 | 8 | |||||
$ | 43 | $ | 43 |
Transition Bonds
The consolidated financial statements of FirstEnergy and JCP&L include the results of JCP&L Transition Funding and JCP&L Transition Funding II, wholly owned limited liability companies of JCP&L. In June 2002, JCP&L Transition Funding sold $320 million of transition bonds to securitize the recovery of JCP&L's bondable stranded costs associated with the previously divested Oyster Creek Nuclear Generating Station. In August 2006, JCP&L Transition Funding II sold $182 million of transition bonds to securitize the recovery of deferred costs associated with JCP&L’s supply of BGS.
JCP&L did not purchase and does not own any of the transition bonds, which are included as long-term debt on FirstEnergy's and JCP&L's Consolidated Balance Sheets. As of March 31, 2008, $391 million of the transition bonds were outstanding. The transition bonds are the sole obligations of JCP&L Transition Funding and JCP&L Transition Funding II and are collateralized by each company’s equity and assets, which consists primarily of bondable transition property.
Bondable transition property represents the irrevocable right under New Jersey law of a utility company to charge, collect and receive from its customers, through a non-bypassable TBC, the principal amount and interest on transition bonds and other fees and expenses associated with their issuance. JCP&L sold its bondable transition property to JCP&L Transition Funding and JCP&L Transition Funding II and, as servicer, manages and administers the bondable transition property, including the billing, collection and remittance of the TBC, pursuant to separate servicing agreements with JCP&L Transition Funding and JCP&L Transition Funding II. For the two series of transition bonds, JCP&L is entitled to aggregate quarterly servicing fees of $157,000 payable from TBC collections.
9. INCOME TAXES
On January 1, 2007, FirstEnergy adopted FIN 48, which provides guidance for accounting for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in a company’s financial statements in accordance with SFAS 109. This interpretation prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for financial statement recognition and measurement of tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a company’s tax return. FIN 48 also provides guidance on derecognition, classification, interest, penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure and transition. The evaluation of a tax position in accordance with this interpretation is a two-step process. The first step is to determine if it is more likely than not that a tax position will be sustained upon examination, based on the merits of the position, and should therefore be recognized. The second step is to measure a tax position that meets the more likely than not recognition threshold to determine the amount of income tax benefit to recognize in the financial statements.
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As of January 1, 2007, the total amount of FirstEnergy’s unrecognized tax benefits was $268 million. FirstEnergy recorded a $2.7 million cumulative effect adjustment to the January 1, 2007 balance of retained earnings to increase reserves for uncertain tax positions. Of the total amount of unrecognized income tax benefits, $92 million would favorably affect FirstEnergy’s effective tax rate upon recognition. The majority of items that would not have affected the effective tax rate would be purchase accounting adjustments to goodwill upon recognition. During the first three months of 2008 and 2007, there were no material changes to FirstEnergy’s unrecognized tax benefits. As of March 31, 2008, FirstEnergy expects that it is reasonably possible that $8 million of the unrecognized benefits will be resolved within the next twelve months and is included in the caption “accrued taxes,” with the remaining $263 million included in the caption “other non-current liabilities” on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
FIN 48 also requires companies to recognize interest expense or income related to uncertain tax positions. That amount is computed by applying the applicable statutory interest rate to the difference between the tax position recognized in accordance with FIN 48 and the amount previously taken or expected to be taken on the tax return. FirstEnergy includes net interest and penalties in the provision for income taxes, consistent with its policy prior to implementing FIN 48. The net amount of interest accrued as of March 31, 2008 was $57 million, as compared to $53 million as of December 31, 2007. During the first three months of 2008 and 2007, there were no material changes to the amount of interest accrued.
FirstEnergy has tax returns that are under review at the audit or appeals level by the IRS and state tax authorities. All state jurisdictions are open from 2001-2007. The IRS began reviewing returns for the years 2001-2003 in July 2004 and several items are under appeal. The federal audits for the years 2004-2006 are expected to close before December 2008, but management anticipates certain items to be under appeal. The IRS began auditing the year 2007 in February 2007 and year 2008 in February 2008 under its Compliance Assurance Process experimental program. Neither audit is expected to close before December 2008. Management believes that adequate reserves have been recognized and final settlement of these audits is not expected to have a material adverse effect on FirstEnergy’s financial condition or results of operations.
10. COMMITMENTS, GUARANTEES AND CONTINGENCIES
(A) GUARANTEES AND OTHER ASSURANCES
As part of normal business activities, FirstEnergy enters into various agreements on behalf of its subsidiaries to provide financial or performance assurances to third parties. These agreements include contract guarantees, surety bonds and LOCs. As of March 31, 2008, outstanding guarantees and other assurances aggregated approximately $4.4 billion, consisting of parental guarantees - $0.9 billion, subsidiaries’ guarantees - $2.7 billion, surety bonds - $0.1 billion and LOCs - $0.7 billion.
FirstEnergy guarantees energy and energy-related payments of its subsidiaries involved in energy commodity activities principally to facilitate normal physical transactions involving electricity, gas, emission allowances and coal. FirstEnergy also provides guarantees to various providers of credit support for the financing or refinancing by subsidiaries of costs related to the acquisition of property, plant and equipment. These agreements legally obligate FirstEnergy to fulfill the obligations of those subsidiaries directly involved in energy and energy-related transactions or financing where the law might otherwise limit the counterparties' claims. If demands of a counterparty were to exceed the ability of a subsidiary to satisfy existing obligations, FirstEnergy's guarantee enables the counterparty's legal claim to be satisfied by other FirstEnergy assets. The likelihood is remote that such parental guarantees of $0.4 billion (included in the $0.9 billion discussed above) as of March 31, 2008 would increase amounts otherwise payable by FirstEnergy to meet its obligations incurred in connection with financings and ongoing energy and energy-related activities.
While these types of guarantees are normally parental commitments for the future payment of subsidiary obligations, subsequent to the occurrence of a credit rating downgrade or “material adverse event,” the immediate posting of cash collateral or provision of an LOC may be required of the subsidiary. As of March 31, 2008, FirstEnergy's maximum exposure under these collateral provisions was $440 million.
Most of FirstEnergy's surety bonds are backed by various indemnities common within the insurance industry. Surety bonds and related guarantees of $66 million provide additional assurance to outside parties that contractual and statutory obligations will be met in a number of areas including construction contracts, environmental commitments and various retail transactions.
FirstEnergy has also guaranteed the obligations of the operators of the TEBSA project, up to a maximum of $2 million (subject to escalation) under the project's operations and maintenance agreement. In connection with the sale of TEBSA in January 2004, the purchaser indemnified FirstEnergy against any loss under this guarantee. FirstEnergy has also provided an LOC ($19 million as of March 31, 2008), which is renewable and declines yearly based upon the senior outstanding debt of TEBSA.
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In July 2007, FGCO completed a sale and leaseback transaction for its 93.825% undivided interest in Bruce Mansfield Unit 1. FES has unconditionally and irrevocably guaranteed all of FGCO’s obligations under each of the leases. The related lessor notes and pass through certificates are not guaranteed by FES or FGCO, but the notes are secured by, among other things, each lessor trust’s undivided interest in Unit 1, rights and interests under the applicable lease and rights and interests under other related agreements, including FES’ lease guaranty.
(B) | ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS |
Various federal, state and local authorities regulate FirstEnergy with regard to air and water quality and other environmental matters. The effects of compliance on FirstEnergy with regard to environmental matters could have a material adverse effect on FirstEnergy's earnings and competitive position to the extent that it competes with companies that are not subject to such regulations and, therefore, do not bear the risk of costs associated with compliance, or failure to comply, with such regulations. FirstEnergy estimates capital expenditures for environmental compliance of approximately $1.4 billion for the period 2008-2012.
FirstEnergy accrues environmental liabilities only when it concludes that it is probable that it has an obligation for such costs and can reasonably estimate the amount of such costs. Unasserted claims are reflected in FirstEnergy’s determination of environmental liabilities and are accrued in the period that they become both probable and reasonably estimable.
Clean Air Act Compliance
FirstEnergy is required to meet federally-approved SO2 emissions regulations. Violations of such regulations can result in the shutdown of the generating unit involved and/or civil or criminal penalties of up to $32,500 for each day the unit is in violation. The EPA has an interim enforcement policy for SO2 regulations in Ohio that allows for compliance based on a 30-day averaging period. FirstEnergy believes it is currently in compliance with this policy, but cannot predict what action the EPA may take in the future with respect to the interim enforcement policy.
The EPA Region 5 issued a Finding of Violation and NOV to the Bay Shore Power Plant dated June 15, 2006, alleging violations to various sections of the CAA. FirstEnergy has disputed those alleged violations based on its CAA permit, the Ohio SIP and other information provided to the EPA at an August 2006 meeting with the EPA. The EPA has several enforcement options (administrative compliance order, administrative penalty order, and/or judicial, civil or criminal action) and has indicated that such option may depend on the time needed to achieve and demonstrate compliance with the rules alleged to have been violated. On June 5, 2007, the EPA requested another meeting to discuss “an appropriate compliance program” and a disagreement regarding the opacity limit applicable to the common stack for Bay Shore Units 2, 3 and 4.
FirstEnergy complies with SO2 reduction requirements under the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 by burning lower-sulfur fuel, generating more electricity from lower-emitting plants, and/or using emission allowances. NOX reductions required by the 1990 Amendments are being achieved through combustion controls and the generation of more electricity at lower-emitting plants. In September 1998, the EPA finalized regulations requiring additional NOX reductions at FirstEnergy's facilities. The EPA's NOX Transport Rule imposes uniform reductions of NOX emissions (an approximate 85% reduction in utility plant NOX emissions from projected 2007 emissions) across a region of nineteen states (including Michigan, New Jersey, Ohio and Pennsylvania) and the District of Columbia based on a conclusion that such NOX emissions are contributing significantly to ozone levels in the eastern United States. FirstEnergy believes its facilities are also complying with the NOX budgets established under SIPs through combustion controls and post-combustion controls, including Selective Catalytic Reduction and SNCR systems, and/or using emission allowances.
On May 22, 2007, FirstEnergy and FGCO received a notice letter, required 60 days prior to the filing of a citizen suit under the federal CAA, alleging violations of air pollution laws at the Bruce Mansfield Plant, including opacity limitations. Prior to the receipt of this notice, the Plant was subject to a Consent Order and Agreement with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection concerning opacity emissions under which efforts to achieve compliance with the applicable laws will continue. On October 18, 2007, PennFuture filed a complaint, joined by three of its members, in the United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania. On January 11, 2008, FirstEnergy filed a motion to dismiss claims alleging a public nuisance. On April 24, 2008, the Court denied the motion to dismiss, but also ruled that monetary damages could not be recovered under the public nuisance claim.
On December 18, 2007, the state of New Jersey filed a CAA citizen suit alleging NSR violations at the Portland Generation Station against Reliant (the current owner and operator), Sithe Energy (the purchaser of the Portland Station from Met-Ed in 1999), GPU, Inc. and Met-Ed. Specifically, New Jersey alleges that "modifications" at Portland Units 1 and 2 occurred between 1980 and 1995 without preconstruction NSR or permitting under the CAA's prevention of significant deterioration program, and seeks injunctive relief, penalties, attorney fees and mitigation of the harm caused by excess emissions. On March 14, 2008, Met-Ed filed a motion to dismiss the citizen suit claims against it and a stipulation in which the parties agreed that GPU, Inc. should be dismissed from this case. On March 26, 2008, GPU, Inc. was dismissed by the Court. Although it remains liable for civil or criminal penalties and fines that may be assessed relating to events prior to the sale of the Portland Station in 1999, Met-Ed is indemnified by Sithe Energy against any other liability arising under the CAA whether it arises out of pre-1999 or post-1999 events.
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National Ambient Air Quality Standards
In March 2005, the EPA finalized the CAIR covering a total of 28 states (including Michigan, New Jersey, Ohio and Pennsylvania) and the District of Columbia based on proposed findings that air emissions from 28 eastern states and the District of Columbia significantly contribute to non-attainment of the NAAQS for fine particles and/or the "8-hour" ozone NAAQS in other states. CAIR requires reductions of NOX and SO2 emissions in two phases (Phase I in 2009 for NOX, 2010 for SO2 and Phase II in 2015 for both NOX and SO2). FirstEnergy's Michigan, Ohio and Pennsylvania fossil generation facilities will be subject to caps on SO2 and NOX emissions, whereas its New Jersey fossil generation facility will be subject to only a cap on NOX emissions. According to the EPA, SO2 emissions will be reduced by 45% (from 2003 levels) by 2010 across the states covered by the rule, with reductions reaching 73% (from 2003 levels) by 2015, capping SO2 emissions in affected states to just 2.5 million tons annually. NOX emissions will be reduced by 53% (from 2003 levels) by 2009 across the states covered by the rule, with reductions reaching 61% (from 2003 levels) by 2015, achieving a regional NOX cap of 1.3 million tons annually. CAIR has been challenged in the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia. The future cost of compliance with these regulations may be substantial and may depend on the outcome of this litigation and how CAIR is ultimately implemented.
Mercury Emissions
In December 2000, the EPA announced it would proceed with the development of regulations regarding hazardous air pollutants from electric power plants, identifying mercury as the hazardous air pollutant of greatest concern. In March 2005, the EPA finalized the CAMR, which provides a cap-and-trade program to reduce mercury emissions from coal-fired power plants in two phases; initially, capping national mercury emissions at 38 tons by 2010 (as a "co-benefit" from implementation of SO2 and NOX emission caps under the EPA's CAIR program) and 15 tons per year by 2018. Several states and environmental groups appealed the CAMR to the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia. On February 8, 2008, the court vacated the CAMR ruling that the EPA failed to take the necessary steps to “de-list” coal-fired power plants from its hazardous air pollutant program and, therefore, could not promulgate a cap-and-trade program. The EPA must now seek further judicial review of that ruling or take regulatory action to promulgate new mercury emission standards for coal-fired power plants. FGCO’s future cost of compliance with mercury regulations may be substantial and will depend on the action taken by the EPA and on how they are ultimately implemented.
Pennsylvania has submitted a new mercury rule for EPA approval that does not provide a cap-and-trade approach as in the CAMR, but rather follows a command-and-control approach imposing emission limits on individual sources. It is anticipated that compliance with these regulations, if approved by the EPA and implemented, would not require the addition of mercury controls at the Bruce Mansfield Plant, FirstEnergy’s only Pennsylvania coal-fired power plant, until 2015, if at all.
W. H. Sammis Plant
In 1999 and 2000, the EPA issued an NOV and the DOJ filed a civil complaint against OE and Penn based on operation and maintenance of the W.H. Sammis Plant (Sammis NSR Litigation) and filed similar complaints involving 44 other U.S. power plants. This case, along with seven other similar cases, are referred to as the NSR cases.
On March 18, 2005, OE and Penn announced that they had reached a settlement with the EPA, the DOJ and three states (Connecticut, New Jersey and New York) that resolved all issues related to the Sammis NSR litigation. This settlement agreement, which is in the form of a consent decree, was approved by the court on July 11, 2005, and requires reductions of NOX and SO2 emissions at the Sammis, Burger, Eastlake and Mansfield coal-fired plants through the installation of pollution control devices and provides for stipulated penalties for failure to install and operate such pollution controls in accordance with that agreement. Consequently, if FirstEnergy fails to install such pollution control devices, for any reason, including, but not limited to, the failure of any third-party contractor to timely meet its delivery obligations for such devices, FirstEnergy could be exposed to penalties under the Sammis NSR Litigation consent decree. Capital expenditures necessary to complete requirements of the Sammis NSR Litigation consent decree are currently estimated to be $1.3 billion for 2008-2012 ($650 million of which is expected to be spent during 2008, with the largest portion of the remaining $650 million expected to be spent in 2009). This amount is included in the estimated capital expenditures for environmental compliance referenced above.
On April 2, 2007, the United States Supreme Court ruled that changes in annual emissions (in tons/year) rather than changes in hourly emissions rate (in kilograms/hour) must be used to determine whether an emissions increase triggers NSR. Subsequently, on May 8, 2007, the EPA proposed to revise the NSR regulations to utilize changes in the hourly emission rate (in kilograms/hour) to determine whether an emissions increase triggers NSR. The EPA has not yet issued a final regulation. FGCO’s future cost of compliance with those regulations may be substantial and will depend on how they are ultimately implemented.
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Climate Change
In December 1997, delegates to the United Nations' climate summit in Japan adopted an agreement, the Kyoto Protocol, to address global warming by reducing the amount of man-made GHG emitted by developed countries by 2012. The United States signed the Kyoto Protocol in 1998 but it failed to receive the two-thirds vote required for ratification by the United States Senate. However, the Bush administration has committed the United States to a voluntary climate change strategy to reduce domestic GHG intensity – the ratio of emissions to economic output – by 18% through 2012. Also, in an April 16, 2008 speech, President Bush set a policy goal of stopping the growth of GHG emissions by 2025, as the next step beyond the 2012 strategy. In addition, the EPACT established a Committee on Climate Change Technology to coordinate federal climate change activities and promote the development and deployment of GHG reducing technologies.
There are a number of initiatives to reduce GHG emissions under consideration at the federal, state and international level. At the international level, efforts to reach a new global agreement to reduce GHG emissions post-2012 have begun with the Bali Roadmap, which outlines a two-year process designed to lead to an agreement in 2009. At the federal level, members of Congress have introduced several bills seeking to reduce emissions of GHG in the United States, and the Senate Environmental and Public Works Committees have passed one such bill. State activities, primarily the northeastern states participating in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative and western states led by California, have coordinated efforts to develop regional strategies to control emissions of certain GHGs.
On April 2, 2007, the United States Supreme Court found that the EPA has the authority to regulate CO2 emissions from automobiles as “air pollutants” under the CAA. Although this decision did not address CO2 emissions from electric generating plants, the EPA has similar authority under the CAA to regulate “air pollutants” from those and other facilities.
FirstEnergy cannot currently estimate the financial impact of climate change policies, although potential legislative or regulatory programs restricting CO2 emissions could require significant capital and other expenditures. The CO2 emissions per KWH of electricity generated by FirstEnergy is lower than many regional competitors due to its diversified generation sources, which include low or non-CO2 emitting gas-fired and nuclear generators.
Clean Water Act
Various water quality regulations, the majority of which are the result of the federal Clean Water Act and its amendments, apply to FirstEnergy's plants. In addition, Ohio, New Jersey and Pennsylvania have water quality standards applicable to FirstEnergy's operations. As provided in the Clean Water Act, authority to grant federal National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System water discharge permits can be assumed by a state. Ohio, New Jersey and Pennsylvania have assumed such authority.
On September 7, 2004, the EPA established new performance standards under Section 316(b) of the Clean Water Act for reducing impacts on fish and shellfish from cooling water intake structures at certain existing large electric generating plants. The regulations call for reductions in impingement mortality (when aquatic organisms are pinned against screens or other parts of a cooling water intake system) and entrainment (which occurs when aquatic life is drawn into a facility's cooling water system). On January 26, 2007, the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit remanded portions of the rulemaking dealing with impingement mortality and entrainment back to the EPA for further rulemaking and eliminated the restoration option from the EPA’s regulations. On July 9, 2007, the EPA suspended this rule, noting that until further rulemaking occurs, permitting authorities should continue the existing practice of applying their best professional judgment (BPJ) to minimize impacts on fish and shellfish from cooling water intake structures. On April 14, 2008, the Supreme Court of the United States granted a petition for a writ of certiorari to review certain aspects of the Second Circuit’s decision. FirstEnergy is studying various control options and their costs and effectiveness. Depending on the results of such studies, the outcome of the Supreme Court’s review of the Second Circuit’s decision, the EPA’s further rulemaking and any action taken by the states exercising BPJ, the future costs of compliance with these standards may require material capital expenditures.
Regulation of Hazardous Waste
As a result of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976, as amended, and the Toxic Substances Control Act of 1976, federal and state hazardous waste regulations have been promulgated. Certain fossil-fuel combustion waste products, such as coal ash, were exempted from hazardous waste disposal requirements pending the EPA's evaluation of the need for future regulation. The EPA subsequently determined that regulation of coal ash as a hazardous waste is unnecessary. In April 2000, the EPA announced that it will develop national standards regulating disposal of coal ash under its authority to regulate non-hazardous waste.
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Under NRC regulations, FirstEnergy must ensure that adequate funds will be available to decommission its nuclear facilities. As of March 31, 2008, FirstEnergy had approximately $2.0 billion invested in external trusts to be used for the decommissioning and environmental remediation of Davis-Besse, Beaver Valley, Perry and TMI-2. As part of the application to the NRC to transfer the ownership of Davis-Besse, Beaver Valley and Perry to NGC in 2005, FirstEnergy agreed to contribute another $80 million to these trusts by 2010. Consistent with NRC guidance, utilizing a “real” rate of return on these funds of approximately 2% over inflation, these trusts are expected to exceed the minimum decommissioning funding requirements set by the NRC. Conservatively, these estimates do not include any rate of return that the trusts may earn over the 20-year plant useful life extensions that FirstEnergy (and Exelon for TMI-1 as it relates to the timing of the decommissioning of TMI-2) seeks for these facilities.
The Companies have been named as PRPs at waste disposal sites, which may require cleanup under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980. Allegations of disposal of hazardous substances at historical sites and the liability involved are often unsubstantiated and subject to dispute; however, federal law provides that all PRPs for a particular site may be liable on a joint and several basis. Therefore, environmental liabilities that are considered probable have been recognized on the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of March 31, 2008, based on estimates of the total costs of cleanup, the Companies' proportionate responsibility for such costs and the financial ability of other unaffiliated entities to pay. Total liabilities of approximately $92 million (JCP&L - $65 million, TE - $1 million, CEI - $1 million and FirstEnergy Corp. - $25 million) have been accrued through March 31, 2008. Included in the total for JCP&L are accrued liabilities of approximately $56 million for environmental remediation of former manufactured gas plants in New Jersey; which are being recovered by JCP&L through a non-bypassable SBC.
(C) OTHER LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Power Outages and Related Litigation
In July 1999, the Mid-Atlantic States experienced a severe heat wave, which resulted in power outages throughout the service territories of many electric utilities, including JCP&L's territory. In an investigation into the causes of the outages and the reliability of the transmission and distribution systems of all four of New Jersey’s electric utilities, the NJBPU concluded that there was not a prima facie case demonstrating that, overall, JCP&L provided unsafe, inadequate or improper service to its customers. Two class action lawsuits (subsequently consolidated into a single proceeding) were filed in New Jersey Superior Court in July 1999 against JCP&L, GPU and other GPU companies, seeking compensatory and punitive damages arising from the July 1999 service interruptions in the JCP&L territory.
In August 2002, the trial court granted partial summary judgment to JCP&L and dismissed the plaintiffs' claims for consumer fraud, common law fraud, negligent misrepresentation, and strict product liability. In November 2003, the trial court granted JCP&L's motion to decertify the class and denied plaintiffs' motion to permit into evidence their class-wide damage model indicating damages in excess of $50 million. These class decertification and damage rulings were appealed to the Appellate Division. The Appellate Division issued a decision in July 2004, affirming the decertification of the originally certified class, but remanding for certification of a class limited to those customers directly impacted by the outages of JCP&L transformers in Red Bank, NJ, based on a common incident involving the failure of the bushings of two large transformers in the Red Bank substation resulting in planned and unplanned outages in the area during a 2-3 day period. In 2005, JCP&L renewed its motion to decertify the class based on a very limited number of class members who incurred damages and also filed a motion for summary judgment on the remaining plaintiffs’ claims for negligence, breach of contract and punitive damages. In July 2006, the New Jersey Superior Court dismissed the punitive damage claim and again decertified the class based on the fact that a vast majority of the class members did not suffer damages and those that did would be more appropriately addressed in individual actions. Plaintiffs appealed this ruling to the New Jersey Appellate Division which, in March 2007, reversed the decertification of the Red Bank class and remanded this matter back to the Trial Court to allow plaintiffs sufficient time to establish a damage model or individual proof of damages. JCP&L filed a petition for allowance of an appeal of the Appellate Division ruling to the New Jersey Supreme Court which was denied in May 2007. Proceedings are continuing in the Superior Court and a case management conference with the presiding Judge is scheduled for June 13, 2008. FirstEnergy is defending this class action but is unable to predict the outcome of this matter. No liability has been accrued as of March 31, 2008.
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Nuclear Plant Matters
On May 14, 2007, the Office of Enforcement of the NRC issued a DFI to FENOC, following FENOC’s reply to an April 2, 2007 NRC request for information, about two reports prepared by expert witnesses for an insurance arbitration (the insurance claim was subsequently withdrawn by FirstEnergy in December 2007) related to Davis-Besse. The NRC indicated that this information was needed for the NRC “to determine whether an Order or other action should be taken pursuant to 10 CFR 2.202, to provide reasonable assurance that FENOC will continue to operate its licensed facilities in accordance with the terms of its licenses and the Commission’s regulations.” FENOC was directed to submit the information to the NRC within 30 days. On June 13, 2007, FENOC filed a response to the NRC’s DFI reaffirming that it accepts full responsibility for the mistakes and omissions leading up to the damage to the reactor vessel head and that it remains committed to operating Davis-Besse and FirstEnergy’s other nuclear plants safely and responsibly. FENOC submitted a supplemental response clarifying certain aspects of the DFI response to the NRC on July 16, 2007. On August 15, 2007, the NRC issued a confirmatory order imposing these commitments. FENOC must inform the NRC’s Office of Enforcement after it completes the key commitments embodied in the NRC’s order. FENOC’s compliance with these commitments is subject to future NRC review.
Other Legal Matters
There are various lawsuits, claims (including claims for asbestos exposure) and proceedings related to FirstEnergy's normal business operations pending against FirstEnergy and its subsidiaries. The other potentially material items not otherwise discussed above are described below.
On August 22, 2005, a class action complaint was filed against OE in Jefferson County, Ohio Common Pleas Court, seeking compensatory and punitive damages to be determined at trial based on claims of negligence and eight other tort counts alleging damages from W.H. Sammis Plant air emissions. The two named plaintiffs are also seeking injunctive relief to eliminate harmful emissions and repair property damage and the institution of a medical monitoring program for class members. On April 5, 2007, the Court rejected the plaintiffs’ request to certify this case as a class action and, accordingly, did not appoint the plaintiffs as class representatives or their counsel as class counsel. On July 30, 2007, plaintiffs’ counsel voluntarily withdrew their request for reconsideration of the April 5, 2007 Court order denying class certification and the Court heard oral argument on the plaintiffs’ motion to amend their complaint which OE opposed. On August 2, 2007, the Court denied the plaintiffs’ motion to amend their complaint. The plaintiffs have appealed the Court’s denial of the motion for certification as a class action and motion to amend their complaint.
JCP&L's bargaining unit employees filed a grievance challenging JCP&L's 2002 call-out procedure that required bargaining unit employees to respond to emergency power outages. On May 20, 2004, an arbitration panel concluded that the call-out procedure violated the parties' collective bargaining agreement. At the conclusion of the June 1, 2005 hearing, the arbitration panel decided not to hear testimony on damages and closed the proceedings. On September 9, 2005, the arbitration panel issued an opinion to award approximately $16 million to the bargaining unit employees. On February 6, 2006, a federal district court granted a union motion to dismiss, as premature, a JCP&L appeal of the award filed on October 18, 2005. A final order identifying the individual damage amounts was issued on October 31, 2007. The award appeal process was initiated. The union filed a motion with the federal court to confirm the award and JCP&L filed its answer and counterclaim to vacate the award on December 31, 2007. The court held a scheduling conference in April 2008 where it set a briefing schedule with all briefs to be concluded by July 2008. JCP&L recognized a liability for the potential $16 million award in 2005.
The union employees at the Bruce Mansfield Plant have been working without a labor contract since February 15, 2008. The parties are continuing to bargain with the assistance of a federal mediator. FirstEnergy has a strike mitigation plan ready in the event of a strike.
FirstEnergy accrues legal liabilities only when it concludes that it is probable that it has an obligation for such costs and can reasonably estimate the amount of such costs. If it were ultimately determined that FirstEnergy or its subsidiaries have legal liability or are otherwise made subject to liability based on the above matters, it could have a material adverse effect on FirstEnergy's or its subsidiaries' financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
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11. REGULATORY MATTERS
(A) RELIABILITY INITIATIVES
In late 2003 and early 2004, a series of letters, reports and recommendations were issued from various entities, including governmental, industry and ad hoc reliability entities (PUCO, FERC, NERC and the U.S. – Canada Power System Outage Task Force) regarding enhancements to regional reliability. The proposed enhancements were divided into two groups: enhancements that were to be completed in 2004; and enhancements that were to be completed after 2004. In 2004, FirstEnergy completed all of the enhancements that were recommended for completion in 2004. FirstEnergy is also proceeding with the implementation of the recommendations that were to be completed subsequent to 2004 and will continue to periodically assess the FERC-ordered Reliability Study recommendations for forecasted 2009 system conditions, recognizing revised load forecasts and other changing system conditions which may impact the recommendations. Thus far, implementation of the recommendations has not required, nor is expected to require, substantial investment in new or material upgrades to existing equipment. The FERC or other applicable government agencies and reliability coordinators may, however, take a different view as to recommended enhancements or may recommend additional enhancements in the future that could require additional material expenditures.
As a result of outages experienced in JCP&L’s service area in 2002 and 2003, the NJBPU performed a review of JCP&L’s service reliability. On June 9, 2004, the NJBPU approved a stipulation that addresses a third-party consultant’s recommendations on appropriate courses of action necessary to ensure system-wide reliability. The stipulation incorporates the consultant’s focused audit of, and recommendations regarding, JCP&L’s Planning and Operations and Maintenance programs and practices. On June 1, 2005, the consultant completed his work and issued his final report to the NJBPU. On July 14, 2006, JCP&L filed a comprehensive response to the consultant’s report with the NJBPU. JCP&L will complete the remaining substantive work described in the stipulation in 2008. JCP&L continues to file compliance reports with the NJBPU reflecting JCP&L’s activities associated with implementing the stipulation.
In 2005, Congress amended the Federal Power Act to provide for federally-enforceable mandatory reliability standards. The mandatory reliability standards apply to the bulk power system and impose certain operating, record-keeping and reporting requirements on the Companies and ATSI. The NERC is charged with establishing and enforcing these reliability standards, although it has delegated day-to-day implementation and enforcement of its responsibilities to eight regional entities, including the ReliabilityFirst Corporation. All of FirstEnergy’s facilities are located within the ReliabilityFirst region. FirstEnergy actively participates in the NERC and ReliabilityFirst stakeholder processes, and otherwise monitors and manages its companies in response to the ongoing development, implementation and enforcement of the reliability standards.
FirstEnergy believes that it is in compliance with all currently-effective and enforceable reliability standards. Nevertheless, it is clear that NERC, ReliabilityFirst and the FERC will continue to refine existing reliability standards as well as to develop and adopt new reliability standards. The financial impact of complying with new or amended standards cannot be determined at this time. However, the 2005 amendments to the Federal Power Act provide that all prudent costs incurred to comply with the new reliability standards be recovered in rates. Still, any future inability on FirstEnergy’s part to comply with the reliability standards for its bulk power system could have a material adverse effect on its financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
In April 2007, ReliabilityFirst performed a routine compliance audit of FirstEnergy’s bulk-power system within the Midwest ISO region and found it to be in full compliance with all audited reliability standards. Similarly, ReliabilityFirst has scheduled a compliance audit of FirstEnergy’s bulk-power system within the PJM region in 2008. FirstEnergy currently does not expect any material adverse financial impact as a result of these audits.
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(B) OHIO
On January 4, 2006, the PUCO issued an order authorizing the Ohio Companies to recover certain increased fuel costs through a fuel rider and to defer certain other increased fuel costs to be incurred from January 1, 2006 through December 31, 2008, including interest on the deferred balances. The order also provided for recovery of the deferred costs over a twenty-five-year period through distribution rates. On August 29, 2007, the Supreme Court of Ohio concluded that the PUCO violated a provision of the Ohio Revised Code by permitting the Ohio Companies “to collect deferred increased fuel costs through future distribution rate cases, or to alternatively use excess fuel-cost recovery to reduce deferred distribution-related expenses” and remanded the matter to the PUCO for further consideration. On September 10, 2007 the Ohio Companies filed an application with the PUCO that requested the implementation of two generation-related fuel cost riders to collect the increased fuel costs that were previously authorized to be deferred. On January 9, 2008 the PUCO approved the Ohio Companies’ proposed fuel cost rider to recover increased fuel costs to be incurred in 2008 commencing January 1, 2008 through December 31, 2008, which is expected to be approximately $189 million. In addition, the PUCO ordered the Ohio Companies to file a separate application for an alternate recovery mechanism to collect the 2006 and 2007 deferred fuel costs. On February 8, 2008, the Ohio Companies filed an application proposing to recover $226 million of deferred fuel costs and carrying charges for 2006 and 2007 pursuant to a separate fuel rider, with alternative options for the recovery period ranging from five to twenty-five years. This second application is currently pending before the PUCO and a hearing has been set for July 15, 2008.
The Ohio Companies filed an application and rate request for an increase in electric distribution rates with the PUCO on June 7, 2007. The requested increase is expected to be more than offset by the elimination or reduction of transition charges at the time the rates go into effect and would result in lowering the overall non-generation portion of the average electric bill for most Ohio customers. The distribution rate increases reflect capital expenditures since the Ohio Companies’ last distribution rate proceedings, increases in operation and maintenance expenses and recovery of regulatory assets that were authorized in prior cases. On August 6, 2007, the Ohio Companies updated their filing supporting a distribution rate increase of $332 million. On December 4, 2007, the PUCO Staff issued its Staff Reports containing the results of their investigation into the distribution rate request. In its reports, the PUCO Staff recommended a distribution rate increase in the range of $161 million to $180 million, with $108 million to $127 million for distribution revenue increases and $53 million for recovery of costs deferred under prior cases. This amount excludes the recovery of deferred fuel costs, whose recovery is now being sought in a separate proceeding before the PUCO, discussed above. On January 3, 2008, the Ohio Companies and intervening parties filed objections to the Staff Reports and on January 10, 2008, the Ohio Companies filed supplemental testimony. Evidentiary hearings began on January 29, 2008 and continued through February 25, 2008. During the evidentiary hearings, the PUCO Staff submitted testimony decreasing their recommended revenue increase to a range of $114 million to $132 million. Additionally, in testimony submitted on February 11, 2008, the PUCO Staff adopted a position regarding interest deferred for RCP-related deferrals, line extension deferrals and transition tax deferrals that, if upheld by the PUCO, would result in the write-off of approximately $45 million of interest costs deferred through March 31, 2008 ($0.09 per share of common stock). The PUCO is expected to render its decision during the second or third quarter of 2008. The new rates would become effective January 1, 2009 for OE and TE, and approximately May 2009 for CEI.
On July 10, 2007, the Ohio Companies filed an application with the PUCO requesting approval of a comprehensive supply plan for providing retail generation service to customers who do not purchase electricity from an alternative supplier, beginning January 1, 2009. The proposed competitive bidding process would average the results of multiple bidding sessions conducted at different times during the year. The final price per KWH would reflect an average of the prices resulting from all bids. In their filing, the Ohio Companies offered two alternatives for structuring the bids, either by customer class or a “slice-of-system” approach. A slice-of-system approach would require the successful bidder to be responsible for supplying a fixed percentage of the utility’s total load notwithstanding the customer’s classification. The proposal provides the PUCO with an option to phase in generation price increases for residential tariff groups who would experience a change in their average total price of 15 percent or more. The PUCO held a technical conference on August 16, 2007 regarding the filing. Initial and reply comments on the proposal were filed by various parties in September and October 2007, respectively. The proposal is currently pending before the PUCO.
On April 22, 2008, an amended version of Substitute SB221 was passed by the Ohio House of Representatives and sent back to the Ohio Senate for concurrence. On April 23, 2008, the Ohio Senate approved the House's amendments to Substitute SB221 and forwarded the bill to the Governor for signature, which he signed on May 1, 2008. Amended Substitute SB221 requires all electric distribution utilities to file an RSP, now called an ESP, with the PUCO. An ESP is required to contain a proposal for the supply and pricing of retail generation and may include proposals, without limitation, related to one or more of the following:
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· | automatic recovery of prudently incurred fuel, purchased power, emission allowance costs and federally mandated energy taxes; |
· | construction work in progress for costs of constructing an electric generating facility or environmental expenditure for any electric generating facility; |
· | costs of an electric generating facility; |
· | terms related to customer shopping, bypassability, standby, back-up and default service; |
· | accounting for deferrals related to stabilizing retail electric service; |
· | automatic increases or decreases in standard service offer price; |
· | phase-in and securitization; |
· | transmission service and related costs; |
· | distribution service and related costs; and |
· | economic development and energy efficiency. |
A utility could also simultaneously file an MRO in which it would have to demonstrate the following objective market criteria: The utility or its transmission service affiliate belongs to a FERC-approved RTO having a market-monitor function and the ability to mitigate market power, and a published source exists that identifies information for traded electricity and energy products that are contracted for delivery two years into the future. The PUCO would test the ESP and its pricing and all other terms and conditions against the MRO and may only approve the ESP if it is found to be more favorable to customers. As part of an ESP with a plan period longer than three years, the PUCO shall prospectively determine every fourth year of the plan whether it is substantially likely the plan will provide the electric distribution utility a return on common equity significantly in excess of the return likely to be earned by publicly traded companies, including utilities, that face comparable business and financial risk (comparable companies). If so, the PUCO may terminate the ESP. Annually under an ESP, the PUCO shall determine whether an electric distribution utility's earned return on common equity is significantly in excess of returns earned on common equity during the same period by comparable companies, and if so, shall require the utility to return such excess to customers by prospective adjustments. Amended Substitute SB221 also includes provisions dealing with advanced and renewable energy standards that contemplate 25% of electrical usage from these sources by 2025. Energy efficiency measures in the bill require energy savings in excess of 22% by 2025. Requirements are in place to meet annual benchmarks for renewable energy resources and energy efficiency, subject to review by the PUCO. FirstEnergy is currently evaluating this legislation and expects to file an ESP in the second or third quarter of 2008.
(C) PENNSYLVANIA
Met-Ed and Penelec purchase a portion of their PLR and default service requirements from FES through a fixed-price partial requirements wholesale power sales agreement. The agreement allows Met-Ed and Penelec to sell the output of NUG energy to the market and requires FES to provide energy at fixed prices to replace any NUG energy sold to the extent needed for Met-Ed and Penelec to satisfy their PLR and default service obligations. The fixed price under the agreement is expected to remain below wholesale market prices during the term of the agreement. If Met-Ed and Penelec were to replace the entire FES supply at current market power prices without corresponding regulatory authorization to increase their generation prices to customers, each company would likely incur a significant increase in operating expenses and experience a material deterioration in credit quality metrics. Under such a scenario, each company's credit profile would no longer be expected to support an investment grade rating for their fixed income securities. Based on the PPUC’s January 11, 2007 order described below, if FES ultimately determines to terminate, reduce, or significantly modify the agreement prior to the expiration of Met-Ed’s and Penelec’s generation rate caps in 2010, timely regulatory relief is not likely to be granted by the PPUC.
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Met-Ed and Penelec made a comprehensive transition rate filing with the PPUC on April 10, 2006 to address a number of transmission, distribution and supply issues. If Met-Ed's and Penelec's preferred approach involving accounting deferrals had been approved, annual revenues would have increased by $216 million and $157 million, respectively. That filing included, among other things, a request to charge customers for an increasing amount of market-priced power procured through a CBP as the amount of supply provided under the then existing FES agreement was to be phased out. Met-Ed and Penelec also requested approval of a January 12, 2005 petition for the deferral of transmission-related costs incurred during 2006. In this rate filing, Met-Ed and Penelec requested recovery of annual transmission and related costs incurred on or after January 1, 2007, plus the amortized portion of 2006 costs over a ten-year period, along with applicable carrying charges, through an adjustable rider. Changes in the recovery of NUG expenses and the recovery of Met-Ed's non-NUG stranded costs were also included in the filing. On May 4, 2006, the PPUC consolidated the remand of the FirstEnergy and GPU merger proceeding, related to the quantification and allocation of merger savings, with the comprehensive transition rate filing case.
The PPUC entered its opinion and order in the comprehensive rate filing proceeding on January 11, 2007. The order approved the recovery of transmission costs, including the transmission-related deferral for January 1, 2006 through January 10, 2007, and determined that no merger savings from prior years should be considered in determining customers’ rates. The request for increases in generation supply rates was denied as were the requested changes to NUG expense recovery and Met-Ed’s non-NUG stranded costs. The order decreased Met-Ed’s and Penelec’s distribution rates by $80 million and $19 million, respectively. These decreases were offset by the increases allowed for the recovery of transmission costs. Met-Ed’s and Penelec’s request for recovery of Saxton decommissioning costs was granted and, in January 2007, Met-Ed and Penelec recognized income of $15 million and $12 million, respectively, to establish regulatory assets for those previously expensed decommissioning costs. Overall rates increased by 5.0% for Met-Ed ($59 million) and 4.5% for Penelec ($50 million).
On March 30, 2007, MEIUG and PICA filed a Petition for Review with the Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania asking the court to review the PPUC’s determination on transmission (including congestion) and the transmission deferral. Met-Ed and Penelec filed a Petition for Review on April 13, 2007 on the issues of consolidated tax savings and the requested generation rate increase. The OCA filed its Petition for Review on April 13, 2007, on the issues of transmission (including congestion) and recovery of universal service costs from only the residential rate class. From June through October 2007, initial responsive and reply briefs were filed by various parties. Oral arguments are scheduled to take place in September 2008. If Met-Ed and Penelec do not prevail on the issue of congestion, it could have a material adverse effect on the results of operations of Met-Ed, Penelec and FirstEnergy.
On April 14, 2008, Met-Ed and Penelec filed annual updates to the TSC rider for the period June 1, 2008, through May 31, 2009. The proposed TSCs include a component for under-recovery of actual transmission costs incurred during the prior period (Met-Ed - $144 million and Penelec - $4 million) and future transmission cost projections for June 2008 through May 2009 (Met-Ed - $258 million and Penelec - $92 million). Met-Ed has proposed a transition approach that would recover past under-recovered costs plus carrying charges through the new TSC over thirty-one months and defer a portion of the projected costs ($92 million) plus carrying charges for recovery through future TSCs by December 31, 2010.
On March 13, 2008, the PPUC approved the residential procurement process in Penn’s Joint Petition for Settlement. This RFP process calls for load-following, full-requirements contracts for default service procurement for residential customers for the period covering June 1, 2008 through May 31, 2011. The PPUC had previously approved the default service procurement processes for commercial and industrial customers. The default service procurement for small commercial customers was conducted through multiple RFPs, while the default service procurement for large commercial and industrial customers will utilize hourly pricing. Bids in the two RFPs for small commercial load were approved by the PPUC on February 22, 2008, and March 20, 2008. On March 28, 2008, Penn filed compliance tariffs with the new default service generation rates based on the approved RFP bids for small commercial customers which the PPUC then certified on April 4, 2008. On April 14, 2008, the first RFP for residential customers’ load was held consisting of tranches for both 12 and 24-month supply. The PPUC approved the bids on April 16, 2008. The second RFP is scheduled to be held on May 14, 2008, after which time the PPUC is expected to approve the new rates to go into effect June 1, 2008.
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On February 1, 2007, the Governor of Pennsylvania proposed an EIS. The EIS includes four pieces of proposed legislation that, according to the Governor, is designed to reduce energy costs, promote energy independence and stimulate the economy. Elements of the EIS include the installation of smart meters, funding for solar panels on residences and small businesses, conservation and demand reduction programs to meet energy growth, a requirement that electric distribution companies acquire power that results in the “lowest reasonable rate on a long-term basis,” the utilization of micro-grids and a three year phase-in of rate increases. On July 17, 2007 the Governor signed into law two pieces of energy legislation. The first amended the Alternative Energy Portfolio Standards Act of 2004 to, among other things, increase the percentage of solar energy that must be supplied at the conclusion of an electric distribution company’s transition period. The second law allows electric distribution companies, at their sole discretion, to enter into long term contracts with large customers and to build or acquire interests in electric generation facilities specifically to supply long-term contracts with such customers. A special legislative session on energy was convened in mid-September 2007 to consider other aspects of the EIS. The Pennsylvania House and Senate on March 11, 2008 and December 12, 2007, respectively, passed different versions of bills to fund the Governor’s EIS proposal. Neither chamber has formally considered the other’s bill. On February 12, 2008, the Pennsylvania House passed House Bill 2200 which provides for energy efficiency and demand management programs and targets as well as the installation of smart meters within ten years. Other legislation has been introduced to address generation procurement, expiration of rate caps, conservation and renewable energy. The final form of this pending legislation is uncertain. Consequently, FirstEnergy is unable to predict what impact, if any, such legislation may have on its operations.
(D) NEW JERSEY
JCP&L is permitted to defer for future collection from customers the amounts by which its costs of supplying BGS to non-shopping customers and costs incurred under NUG agreements exceed amounts collected through BGS and NUGC rates and market sales of NUG energy and capacity. As of March 31, 2008, the accumulated deferred cost balance totaled approximately $264 million.
In accordance with an April 28, 2004 NJBPU order, JCP&L filed testimony on June 7, 2004 supporting continuation of the current level and duration of the funding of TMI-2 decommissioning costs by New Jersey customers without a reduction, termination or capping of the funding. On September 30, 2004, JCP&L filed an updated TMI-2 decommissioning study. This study resulted in an updated total decommissioning cost estimate of $729 million (in 2003 dollars) compared to the estimated $528 million (in 2003 dollars) from the prior 1995 decommissioning study. The DRA filed comments on February 28, 2005 requesting that decommissioning funding be suspended. On March 18, 2005, JCP&L filed a response to those comments. JCP&L responded to additional NJBPU staff discovery requests in May and November 2007 and also submitted comments in the proceeding in November 2007. A schedule for further NJBPU proceedings has not yet been set.
On August 1, 2005, the NJBPU established a proceeding to determine whether additional ratepayer protections are required at the state level in light of the repeal of the PUHCA pursuant to the EPACT. The NJBPU approved regulations effective October 2, 2006 that prevent a holding company that owns a gas or electric public utility from investing more than 25% of the combined assets of its utility and utility-related subsidiaries into businesses unrelated to the utility industry. These regulations are not expected to materially impact FirstEnergy or JCP&L. Also, in the same proceeding, the NJBPU Staff issued an additional draft proposal on March 31, 2006 addressing various issues including access to books and records, ring-fencing, cross subsidization, corporate governance and related matters. With the approval of the NJBPU Staff, the affected utilities jointly submitted an alternative proposal on June 1, 2006. The NJBPU Staff circulated revised drafts of the proposal to interested stakeholders in November 2006 and again in February 2007. On February 1, 2008, the NJBPU accepted proposed rules for publication in the New Jersey Register on March 17, 2008. A public hearing on these proposed rules was held on April 23, 2008 with comments from interested parties due on May 16, 2008.
New Jersey statutes require that the state periodically undertake a planning process, known as the EMP, to address energy related issues including energy security, economic growth, and environmental impact. The EMP is to be developed with involvement of the Governor’s Office and the Governor’s Office of Economic Growth, and is to be prepared by a Master Plan Committee, which is chaired by the NJBPU President and includes representatives of several State departments. In October 2006, the current EMP process was initiated through the creation of a number of working groups to obtain input from a broad range of interested stakeholders including utilities, environmental groups, customer groups, and major customers. In addition, public stakeholder meetings were held in the fall of 2006 and in early 2007.
On April 17, 2008, a draft EMP was released for public comment. The draft EMP establishes four major goals:
· | maximize energy efficiency to achieve a 20% reduction in energy consumption by 2020; |
· | reduce peak demand for electricity by 5,700 MW by 2020 (amounting to about a 22% reduction in projected demand); |
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· | meet 22.5% of the state’s electricity needs with renewable energy by 2020; and |
· | develop low carbon emitting, efficient power plants and close the gap between the supply and demand for electricity. |
Following the public comment period which is expected to extend into July 2008, a final EMP will be issued to be followed by appropriate legislation and regulation as necessary. At this time, FirstEnergy cannot predict the outcome of this process nor determine the impact, if any, such legislation or regulation may have on its operations or those of JCP&L.
On February 13, 2007, the NJBPU Staff informally issued a draft proposal relating to changes to the regulations addressing electric distribution service reliability and quality standards. Meetings between the NJBPU Staff and interested stakeholders to discuss the proposal were held and additional, revised informal proposals were subsequently circulated by the Staff. On September 4, 2007, proposed regulations were published in the New Jersey Register, which proposal will be subsequently considered by the NJBPU following comments that were submitted in September and October 2007. Final regulations (effective upon publication) were published in the New Jersey Register March 17, 2008. Upon preliminary review of the new regulations, FirstEnergy does not expect a material impact on its operations or those of JCP&L.
(E) FERC MATTERS
Transmission Service between MISO and PJM
On November 18, 2004, the FERC issued an order eliminating the through and out rate for transmission service between the MISO and PJM regions. The FERC’s intent was to eliminate so-called “pancaking” of transmission charges between the MISO and PJM regions. The FERC also ordered the MISO, PJM and the transmission owners within MISO and PJM to submit compliance filings containing a rate mechanism to recover lost transmission revenues created by elimination of this charge (referred to as the Seams Elimination Cost Adjustment or “SECA”) during a 16-month transition period. The FERC issued orders in 2005 setting the SECA for hearing. The presiding judge issued an initial decision on August 10, 2006, rejecting the compliance filings made by MISO, PJM, and the transmission owners, and directing new compliance filings. This decision is subject to review and approval by the FERC. Briefs addressing the initial decision were filed on September 11, 2006 and October 20, 2006. A final order could be issued by the FERC in the second quarter of 2008.
PJM Transmission Rate Design
On January 31, 2005, certain PJM transmission owners made filings with the FERC pursuant to a settlement agreement previously approved by the FERC. JCP&L, Met-Ed and Penelec were parties to that proceeding and joined in two of the filings. In the first filing, the settling transmission owners submitted a filing justifying continuation of their existing rate design within the PJM RTO. Hearings were held and numerous parties appeared and litigated various issues concerning PJM rate design; notably AEP, which proposed to create a "postage stamp", or average rate for all high voltage transmission facilities across PJM and a zonal transmission rate for facilities below 345 kV. This proposal would have the effect of shifting recovery of the costs of high voltage transmission lines to other transmission zones, including those where JCP&L, Met-Ed, and Penelec serve load. On April 19, 2007, the FERC issued an order finding that the PJM transmission owners’ existing “license plate” or zonal rate design was just and reasonable and ordered that the current license plate rates for existing transmission facilities be retained. On the issue of rates for new transmission facilities, the FERC directed that costs for new transmission facilities that are rated at 500 kV or higher are to be collected from all transmission zones throughout the PJM footprint by means of a postage-stamp rate. Costs for new transmission facilities that are rated at less than 500 kV, however, are to be allocated on a “beneficiary pays” basis. The FERC found that PJM’s current beneficiary-pays cost allocation methodology is not sufficiently detailed and, in a related order that also was issued on April 19, 2007, directed that hearings be held for the purpose of establishing a just and reasonable cost allocation methodology for inclusion in PJM’s tariff.
On May 18, 2007, certain parties filed for rehearing of the FERC’s April 19, 2007 order. On January 31, 2008, the requests for rehearing were denied. The FERC’s orders on PJM rate design will prevent the allocation of a portion of the revenue requirement of existing transmission facilities of other utilities to JCP&L, Met-Ed and Penelec. In addition, the FERC’s decision to allocate the cost of new 500 kV and above transmission facilities on a PJM-wide basis will reduce future transmission revenue recovery from the JCP&L, Met-Ed and Penelec zones. A partial settlement agreement addressing the “beneficiary pays” methodology for below 500 kV facilities, but excluding the issue of allocating new facilities costs to merchant transmission entities, was filed on September 14, 2007. The agreement was supported by the FERC’s Trial Staff, and was certified by the Presiding Judge. The FERC’s action on the settlement agreement is pending. The remaining merchant transmission cost allocation issues will proceed to hearing in May 2008. On February 13, 2008, AEP appealed the FERC’s orders to the federal Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit. The Illinois Commerce Commission, the PUCO and Dayton Power & Light have also appealed these orders to the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals. The appeals of these parties and others have been consolidated for argument in the Seventh Circuit.
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Post Transition Period Rate Design
The FERC had directed MISO, PJM, and the respective transmission owners to make filings on or before August 1, 2007 to reevaluate transmission rate design within MISO, and between MISO and PJM. On August 1, 2007, filings were made by MISO, PJM, and the vast majority of transmission owners, including FirstEnergy affiliates, which proposed to retain the existing transmission rate design. These filings were approved by the FERC on January 31, 2008. As a result of the FERC’s approval, the rates charged to FirstEnergy’s load-serving affiliates for transmission service over existing transmission facilities in MISO and PJM are unchanged. In a related filing, MISO and MISO transmission owners requested that the current MISO pricing for new transmission facilities that spreads 20% of the cost of new 345 kV and higher transmission facilities across the entire MISO footprint (known as the RECB methodology) be retained.
On September 17, 2007, AEP filed a complaint under Sections 206 and 306 of the Federal Power Act seeking to have the entire transmission rate design and cost allocation methods used by MISO and PJM declared unjust, unreasonable, and unduly discriminatory, and to have the FERC fix a uniform regional transmission rate design and cost allocation method for the entire MISO and PJM “Super Region” that recovers the average cost of new and existing transmission facilities operated at voltages of 345 kV and above from all transmission customers. Lower voltage facilities would continue to be recovered in the local utility transmission rate zone through a license plate rate. AEP requested a refund effective October 1, 2007, or alternatively, February 1, 2008. On January 31, 2008, the FERC issued an order denying the complaint. A rehearing request by AEP is pending before the FERC.
Distribution of MISO Network Service Revenues
Effective February 1, 2008, the MISO Transmission Owners Agreement provides for a change in the method of distributing transmission revenues among the transmission owners. MISO and a majority of the MISO transmission owners filed on December 3, 2007 to change the MISO tariff to clarify, for purposes of distributing network transmission revenue to the transmission owners, that all network transmission service revenues, whether collected by MISO or directly by the transmission owner, are included in the revenue distribution calculation. This clarification was necessary because some network transmission service revenues are collected and retained by transmission owners in states where retail choice does not exist, and their “unbundled” retail load is currently exempt from MISO network service charges. The tariff changes filed with the FERC ensure that revenues collected by transmission owners from bundled load are taken into account in the revenue distribution calculation, and that transmission owners with bundled load do not collect more than their revenue requirements. Absent the changes, transmission owners, and ultimately their customers, with unbundled load or in retail choice states, such as ATSI, would subsidize transmission owners with bundled load, who would collect their revenue requirement from bundled load, plus share in revenues collected by MISO from unbundled customers. This would result in a large revenue shortfall for ATSI, which would eventually be passed on to customers in the form of higher transmission rates as calculated pursuant to ATSI’s Attachment O formula under the MISO tariff.
Numerous parties filed in support of the tariff changes, including the public service commissions of Michigan, Ohio and Wisconsin. Ameren filed a protest on December 26, 2007, arguing that the December 3, 2007 filing violates the MISO Transmission Owners’ Agreement as well as an agreement among Ameren (Union Electric), MISO, and the Missouri Public Service Commission, which provides that Union Electric’s bundled load cannot be charged by MISO for network service. On February 2, 2008, the FERC issued an order conditionally accepting the tariff amendment subject to a minor compliance filing, which was made on March 3, 2008. This order ensures that ATSI will continue to receive transmission revenues from MISO equivalent to its transmission revenue requirement. A rehearing request by Ameren is pending before the FERC.
On February 1, 2008, MISO filed a request to continue using the existing revenue distribution methodology on an interim basis pending amendment of the MISO Transmission Owners’ Agreement. This request was accepted by the FERC on March 13, 2008. On that same day, MISO and the MISO transmission owners made a filing to amend the Transmission Owners’ Agreement to effectively continue the distribution of transmission revenues that was in effect prior to February 1, 2008. This matter is currently pending before the FERC.
MISO Ancillary Services Market and Balancing Area Consolidation
MISO made a filing on September 14, 2007 to establish an ASM for regulation, spinning and supplemental reserves, to consolidate the existing 24 balancing areas within the MISO footprint, and to establish MISO as the NERC registered balancing authority for the region. This filing would permit load serving entities to purchase their operating reserve requirements in a competitive market. FirstEnergy supports the proposal to establish markets for Ancillary Services and consolidate existing balancing areas. On February 25, 2008, the FERC issued an order approving the ASM subject to certain compliance filings. MISO has since notified the FERC that the start of its ASM is delayed until September of 2008.
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Duquesne’s Request to Withdraw from PJM
On November 8, 2007, Duquesne Light Company (Duquesne) filed a request with the FERC to exit PJM and to join the MISO. In its filing, Duquesne asked the FERC to be relieved of certain capacity payment obligations to PJM for capacity auctions conducted prior to its departure from PJM, but covering service for planning periods through May 31, 2011. Duquesne asserted that its primary reason for exiting PJM is to avoid paying future obligations created by PJM’s forward capacity market. FirstEnergy believes that Duquesne’s filing did not identify or address numerous legal, financial or operational issues that are implicated or affected directly by Duquesne’s proposal. Consequently, FirstEnergy submitted responsive filings that, while conceding Duquesne’s rights to exit PJM, contested various aspects of Duquesne’s proposal. FirstEnergy particularly focused on Duquesne’s proposal that it be allowed to exit PJM without payment of its share of existing capacity market commitments. FirstEnergy also objected to Duquesne’s failure to address the firm transmission service requirements that would be necessary for FirstEnergy to continue to use the Beaver Valley Plant to meet existing commitments in the PJM capacity markets and to serve native load. Other market participants also submitted filings contesting Duquesne’s plans.
On January 17, 2008, the FERC conditionally approved Duquesne’s request to exit PJM. Among other conditions, the FERC obligated Duquesne to pay the PJM capacity obligations through May 31, 2011. The FERC’s order took notice of the numerous transmission and other issues raised by FirstEnergy and other parties to the proceeding, but did not provide any responsive rulings or other guidance. Rather, the FERC ordered Duquesne to make a compliance filing in forty-five days detailing how Duquesne will satisfy its obligations under the PJM Transmission Owners’ Agreement. The FERC likewise directed the MISO to submit detailed plans to integrate Duquesne into the MISO. Finally, the FERC directed MISO and PJM to work together to resolve the substantive and procedural issues implicated by Duquesne’s transition into the MISO. These issues remain unresolved. If Duquesne satisfies all of the obligations set by the FERC, its planned transition date is October 9, 2008.
On March 18, 2008, the PJM Power Providers Group filed a request for emergency clarification regarding whether Duquesne-zone generators (including the Beaver Valley Plant) could participate in PJM’s May 2008 auction for the 2011-2012 RPM delivery year. FirstEnergy and the other Duquesne-zone generators filed responsive pleadings. On April 18, 2008, the FERC issued its Order on Motion for Emergency Clarification, wherein the FERC ruled that although the status of the Duquesne-zone generators will change to “External Resource” upon Duquesne’s exit from PJM, these generators can contract with PJM for the transmission reservations necessary to participate in the May 2008 auction. FirstEnergy has complied with FERC’s order by obtaining executed transmission service agreements for firm point-to-point transmission service for the 2011-2012 delivery year and, as such, FirstEnergy satisfies the criteria to bid the Beaver Valley Plant into the May 2008 RPM auction. Notwithstanding these events, on April 30, 2008 and May 1, 2008, certain members of the PJM Power Providers Group filed further pleadings on these issues. On May 2, 2008, FirstEnergy filed a responsive pleading. FirstEnergy is participating in the May 2008 RPM auction for the 2011-2012 RPM delivery year.
MISO Resource Adequacy Proposal
MISO made a filing on December 28, 2007 that would create an enforceable planning reserve requirement in the MISO tariff for load serving entities such as the Ohio Companies, Penn Power, and FES. This requirement is proposed to become effective for the planning year beginning June 1, 2009. The filing would permit MISO to establish the reserve margin requirement for load serving entities based upon a one day loss of load in ten years standard, unless the state utility regulatory agency establishes a different planning reserve for load serving entities in its state. FirstEnergy generally supports the proposal as it promotes a mechanism that will result in long-term commitments from both load-serving entities and resources, including both generation and demand side resources that are necessary for reliable resource adequacy and planning in the MISO footprint. Comments on the filing were filed on January 28, 2008. The FERC approved MISO’s Resource Adequacy proposal on March 26, 2008. Rehearing requests are pending on the FERC’s March 26 Order. A compliance filing establishing the enforcement mechanism for the reserve margin requirement is due on or before June 25, 2008.
Organized Wholesale Power Markets
On February 21, 2008, the FERC issued a NOPR through which it proposes to adopt new rules that it states will “improve operations in organized electric markets, boost competition and bring additional benefits to consumers.” The proposed rule addresses demand response and market pricing during reserve shortages, long-term power contracting, market-monitoring policies, and responsiveness of RTOs and ISOs to stakeholders and customers. FirstEnergy does not believe that the proposed rule will have a significant impact on its operations. Comments on the NOPR were filed on April 18, 2008.
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12. NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS AND INTERPRETATIONS |
SFAS 141(R) – “Business Combinations”
In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS 141(R), which requires the acquiring entity in a business combination to recognize all the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the transaction; establishes the acquisition-date fair value as the measurement objective for all assets acquired and liabilities assumed; and requires the acquirer to disclose to investors and other users all of the information they need to evaluate and understand the nature and financial effect of the business combination. SFAS 141(R) attempts to reduce the complexity of existing GAAP related to business combinations. The Standard includes both core principles and pertinent application guidance, eliminating the need for numerous EITF issues and other interpretative guidance. SFAS 141(R) will affect business combinations entered into by FirstEnergy that close after January 1, 2009. In addition, the Standard also affects the accounting for changes in tax valuation allowances made after January 1, 2009, that were established as part of a business combination prior to the implementation of this Standard. FirstEnergy is currently evaluating the impact of adopting this Standard on its financial statements.
SFAS 160 - “Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements – an Amendment of ARB No. 51”
In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS 160 that establishes accounting and reporting standards for the noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary and for the deconsolidation of a subsidiary. It clarifies that a noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary is an ownership interest in the consolidated entity that should be reported as equity in the consolidated financial statements. This Statement is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning on or after December 15, 2008. Early adoption is prohibited. The Statement is not expected to have a material impact on FirstEnergy’s financial statements.
SFAS 161 - “Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities – an Amendment of FASB Statement No. 133” |
In March 2008, the FASB issued SFAS 161, which requires enhancements to the current disclosure framework for derivative instruments and hedging activities. The Statement requires that objectives for using derivative instruments be disclosed in terms of underlying risk and accounting designation. This disclosure is intended to better convey the purpose of derivatives use in terms of the risks that the entity is intending to manage. The FASB believes disclosing the fair values of derivative instruments and their gains and losses in a tabular format is designed to provide a more complete picture of the location in an entity’s financial statements of both the derivative positions existing at period end and the effect of using derivatives during the reporting period. Disclosing information about credit-risk-related contingent features is designed to provide financial statement users information on the potential effect on an entity’s liquidity from using derivatives. Finally, this Statement requires cross-referencing within the footnotes, which is intended to help users of financial statements locate important information about derivative instruments. FirstEnergy is currently evaluating the impact of adopting this Standard on its financial statements.
13. SEGMENT INFORMATION
FirstEnergy has three reportable operating segments: energy delivery services, competitive energy services and Ohio transitional generation services. The “Other” segment primarily consists of telecommunications services. The assets and revenues for the other business operations are below the quantifiable threshold for operating segments for separate disclosure as “reportable operating segments.”
The energy delivery services segment designs, constructs, operates and maintains FirstEnergy's regulated transmission and distribution systems and is responsible for the regulated generation commodity operations of FirstEnergy’s Pennsylvania and New Jersey electric utility subsidiaries. Its revenues are primarily derived from the delivery of electricity, cost recovery of regulatory assets and default service electric generation sales to non-shopping customers in its Pennsylvania and New Jersey franchise areas. Its results reflect the commodity costs of securing electric generation from FES under partial requirements purchased power agreements and from non-affiliated power suppliers as well as the net PJM transmission expenses related to the delivery of that generation load.
The competitive energy services segment supplies electric power to its electric utility affiliates, provides competitive electric sales primarily in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Maryland and Michigan, owns or leases and operates FirstEnergy’s generating facilities and purchases electricity to meet its sales obligations. The segment's net income is primarily derived from the affiliated company PSA sales and the non-affiliated electric generation sales revenues less the related costs of electricity generation, including purchased power and net transmission (including congestion) and ancillary costs charged by PJM and MISO to deliver electricity to the segment’s customers. The segment’s internal revenues represent the affiliated company PSA sales.
116
The Ohio transitional generation services segment represents the regulated generation commodity operations of FirstEnergy’s Ohio electric utility subsidiaries. Its revenues are primarily derived from electric generation sales to non-shopping customers under the PLR obligations of the Ohio Companies. Its results reflect the purchase of electricity from the competitive energy services segment through full-requirements PSA arrangements, the deferral and amortization of certain fuel costs authorized for recovery by the energy delivery services segment and the net MISO transmission revenues and expenses related to the delivery of generation load. This segment’s total assets consist of accounts receivable for generation revenues from retail customers.
Segment Financial Information | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Ohio | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Energy | Competitive | Transitional | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Delivery | Energy | Generation | Reconciling | |||||||||||||||||||||
Three Months Ended | Services | Services | Services | Other | Adjustments | Consolidated | ||||||||||||||||||
(In millions) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
March 31, 2008 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
External revenues | $ | 2,212 | $ | 329 | $ | 707 | $ | 40 | $ | (11 | ) | $ | 3,277 | |||||||||||
Internal revenues | - | 776 | - | - | (776 | ) | - | |||||||||||||||||
Total revenues | 2,212 | 1,105 | 707 | 40 | (787 | ) | 3,277 | |||||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization | 255 | 53 | 4 | - | 5 | 317 | ||||||||||||||||||
Investment income | 45 | (6 | ) | 1 | - | (23 | ) | 17 | ||||||||||||||||
Net interest charges | 103 | 27 | - | - | 41 | 171 | ||||||||||||||||||
Income taxes | 119 | 58 | 15 | 14 | (19 | ) | 187 | |||||||||||||||||
Net income | 179 | 87 | 23 | 22 | (35 | ) | 276 | |||||||||||||||||
Total assets | 23,211 | 8,108 | 257 | 281 | 558 | 32,415 | ||||||||||||||||||
Total goodwill | 5,582 | 24 | - | - | - | 5,606 | ||||||||||||||||||
Property additions | 255 | 462 | - | 12 | (18 | ) | 711 | |||||||||||||||||
March 31, 2007 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
External revenues | $ | 2,040 | $ | 321 | $ | 619 | $ | 12 | $ | (19 | ) | $ | 2,973 | |||||||||||
Internal revenues | - | 714 | - | - | (714 | ) | - | |||||||||||||||||
Total revenues | 2,040 | 1,035 | 619 | 12 | (733 | ) | 2,973 | |||||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization | 220 | 51 | (15 | ) | 1 | 6 | 263 | |||||||||||||||||
Investment income | 70 | 3 | 1 | - | (41 | ) | 33 | |||||||||||||||||
Net interest charges | 107 | 49 | 1 | 2 | 21 | 180 | ||||||||||||||||||
Income taxes | 148 | 65 | 15 | 5 | (33 | ) | 200 | |||||||||||||||||
Net income | 218 | 98 | 24 | 1 | (51 | ) | 290 | |||||||||||||||||
Total assets | 23,526 | 7,089 | 246 | 254 | 675 | 31,790 | ||||||||||||||||||
Total goodwill | 5,874 | 24 | - | - | - | 5,898 | ||||||||||||||||||
Property additions | 155 | 124 | - | 1 | 16 | 296 |
Reconciling adjustments to segment operating results from internal management reporting to consolidated external financial reporting primarily consist of interest expense related to holding company debt, corporate support services revenues and expenses and elimination of intersegment transactions.
14. SUPPLEMENTAL GUARANTOR INFORMATION |
On July 13, 2007, FGCO completed a sale and leaseback transaction for its 93.825% undivided interest in Bruce Mansfield Unit 1. FES has unconditionally and irrevocably guaranteed all of FGCO’s obligations under each of the leases. The related lessor notes and pass through certificates are not guaranteed by FES or FGCO, but the notes are secured by, among other things, each lessor trust’s undivided interest in Unit 1, rights and interests under the applicable lease and rights and interests under other related agreements, including FES’ lease guaranty.
The consolidating statements of income for the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, consolidating balance sheets as of March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007 and condensed consolidating statements of cash flows for the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007 for FES (parent and guarantor), FGCO and NGC (non-guarantor) are presented below. Investments in wholly owned subsidiaries are accounted for by FES using the equity method. Results of operations for FGCO and NGC are, therefore, reflected in FES’ investment accounts and earnings as if operating lease treatment was achieved. The principal elimination entries eliminate investments in subsidiaries and intercompany balances and transactions and reflect operating lease treatment associated with the 2007 Bruce Mansfield Unit 1 sale and leaseback transaction.
117
FIRSTENERGY SOLUTIONS CORP. | ||||||||||||||||||||
CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF INCOME | ||||||||||||||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||||||||||||||
For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2008 | FES | FGCO | NGC | Eliminations | Consolidated | |||||||||||||||
(In thousands) | ||||||||||||||||||||
REVENUES | $ | 1,099,848 | $ | 567,701 | $ | 325,684 | $ | (894,117 | ) | $ | 1,099,116 | |||||||||
EXPENSES: | ||||||||||||||||||||
Fuel | 2,138 | 291,239 | 28,312 | - | 321,689 | |||||||||||||||
Purchased power from non-affiliates | 206,724 | - | - | - | 206,724 | |||||||||||||||
Purchased power from affiliates | 891,979 | 2,138 | 25,485 | (894,117 | ) | 25,485 | ||||||||||||||
Other operating expenses | 37,596 | 107,167 | 139,595 | 12,188 | 296,546 | |||||||||||||||
Provision for depreciation | 307 | 26,599 | 24,194 | (1,358 | ) | 49,742 | ||||||||||||||
General taxes | 5,415 | 11,570 | 6,212 | - | 23,197 | |||||||||||||||
Total expenses | 1,144,159 | 438,713 | 223,798 | (883,287 | ) | 923,383 | ||||||||||||||
OPERATING INCOME (LOSS) | (44,311 | ) | 128,988 | 101,886 | (10,830 | ) | 175,733 | |||||||||||||
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE): | ||||||||||||||||||||
Miscellaneous income (expense), including | ||||||||||||||||||||
net income from equity investees | 121,725 | (1,208 | ) | (6,537 | ) | (116,884 | ) | (2,904 | ) | |||||||||||
Interest expense to affiliates | (82 | ) | (5,289 | ) | (1,839 | ) | - | (7,210 | ) | |||||||||||
Interest expense - other | (3,978 | ) | (25,968 | ) | (11,018 | ) | 16,429 | (24,535 | ) | |||||||||||
Capitalized interest | 21 | 6,228 | 414 | - | 6,663 | |||||||||||||||
Total other income (expense) | 117,686 | (26,237 | ) | (18,980 | ) | (100,455 | ) | (27,986 | ) | |||||||||||
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES | 73,375 | 102,751 | 82,906 | (111,285 | ) | 147,747 | ||||||||||||||
INCOME TAXES (BENEFIT) | (16,609 | ) | 39,285 | 32,764 | 2,323 | 57,763 | ||||||||||||||
NET INCOME | $ | 89,984 | $ | 63,466 | $ | 50,142 | $ | (113,608 | ) | $ | 89,984 |
118
FIRSTENERGY SOLUTIONS CORP. | ||||||||||||||||||||
CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF INCOME | ||||||||||||||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||||||||||||||
For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2007 | FES | FGCO | NGC | Eliminations | Consolidated | |||||||||||||||
(In thousands) | ||||||||||||||||||||
REVENUES | $ | 1,019,387 | $ | 551,355 | $ | 234,091 | $ | (786,540 | ) | $ | 1,018,293 | |||||||||
EXPENSES: | ||||||||||||||||||||
Fuel | 2,367 | 201,231 | 29,937 | - | 233,535 | |||||||||||||||
Purchased power from non-affiliates | 186,203 | 2,367 | - | (2,367 | ) | 186,203 | ||||||||||||||
Purchased power from affiliates | 784,172 | 59,069 | 17,415 | (784,173 | ) | 76,483 | ||||||||||||||
Other operating expenses | 51,249 | 99,095 | 113,252 | - | 263,596 | |||||||||||||||
Provision for depreciation | 453 | 24,936 | 22,621 | - | 48,010 | |||||||||||||||
General taxes | 4,934 | 10,568 | 6,216 | - | 21,718 | |||||||||||||||
Total expenses | 1,029,378 | 397,266 | 189,441 | (786,540 | ) | 829,545 | ||||||||||||||
OPERATING INCOME (LOSS) | (9,991 | ) | 154,089 | 44,650 | - | 188,748 | ||||||||||||||
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE): | ||||||||||||||||||||
Miscellaneous income (expense), including | ||||||||||||||||||||
net income from equity investees | 113,948 | 916 | 5,200 | (100,332 | ) | 19,732 | ||||||||||||||
Interest expense to affiliates | - | (24,331 | ) | (5,115 | ) | - | (29,446 | ) | ||||||||||||
Interest expense - other | (1,385 | ) | (6,760 | ) | (9,213 | ) | - | (17,358 | ) | |||||||||||
Capitalized interest | 5 | 2,099 | 1,105 | - | 3,209 | |||||||||||||||
Total other income (expense) | 112,568 | (28,076 | ) | (8,023 | ) | (100,332 | ) | (23,863 | ) | |||||||||||
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES | 102,577 | 126,013 | 36,627 | (100,332 | ) | 164,885 | ||||||||||||||
INCOME TAXES | 73 | 49,289 | 13,019 | - | 62,381 | |||||||||||||||
NET INCOME | $ | 102,504 | $ | 76,724 | $ | 23,608 | $ | (100,332 | ) | $ | 102,504 |
119
FIRSTENERGY SOLUTIONS CORP. | ||||||||||||||||||||
CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEETS | ||||||||||||||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||||||||||||||
As of March 31, 2008 | FES | FGCO | NGC | Eliminations | Consolidated | |||||||||||||||
(In thousands) | ||||||||||||||||||||
ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||||||
CURRENT ASSETS: | ||||||||||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 2 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 2 | ||||||||||
Receivables- | ||||||||||||||||||||
Customers | 125,116 | - | - | - | 125,116 | |||||||||||||||
Associated companies | 285,350 | 231,049 | 96,852 | (295,511 | ) | 317,740 | ||||||||||||||
Other | 1,174 | 1,050 | - | 2,224 | ||||||||||||||||
Notes receivable from associated companies | 668,376 | - | 69,011 | - | 737,387 | |||||||||||||||
Materials and supplies, at average cost | 2,849 | 264,501 | 207,275 | - | 474,625 | |||||||||||||||
Prepayments and other | 107,798 | 26,208 | 1,728 | - | 135,734 | |||||||||||||||
1,190,665 | 522,808 | 374,866 | (295,511 | ) | 1,792,828 | |||||||||||||||
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT: | ||||||||||||||||||||
In service | 35,302 | 5,359,381 | 3,700,973 | (391,896 | ) | 8,703,760 | ||||||||||||||
Less - Accumulated provision for depreciation | 7,810 | 2,655,103 | 1,537,747 | (168,115 | ) | 4,032,545 | ||||||||||||||
27,492 | 2,704,278 | 2,163,226 | (223,781 | ) | 4,671,215 | |||||||||||||||
Construction work in progress | 10,792 | 881,899 | 165,389 | - | 1,058,080 | |||||||||||||||
38,284 | 3,586,177 | 2,328,615 | (223,781 | ) | 5,729,295 | |||||||||||||||
OTHER PROPERTY AND INVESTMENTS: | ||||||||||||||||||||
Nuclear plant decommissioning trusts | - | - | 1,263,338 | - | 1,263,338 | |||||||||||||||
Long-term notes receivable from associated companies | - | - | 62,900 | - | 62,900 | |||||||||||||||
Investment in associated companies | 2,598,022 | - | - | (2,598,022 | ) | - | ||||||||||||||
Other | 2,529 | 21,657 | 202 | - | 24,388 | |||||||||||||||
2,600,551 | 21,657 | 1,326,440 | (2,598,022 | ) | 1,350,626 | |||||||||||||||
DEFERRED CHARGES AND OTHER ASSETS: | ||||||||||||||||||||
Accumulated deferred income taxes | 10,518 | 495,131 | - | (248,666 | ) | 256,983 | ||||||||||||||
Lease assignment receivable from associated companies | - | 67,256 | - | - | 67,256 | |||||||||||||||
Goodwill | 24,248 | - | - | 24,248 | ||||||||||||||||
Property taxes | - | 25,007 | 22,767 | - | 47,774 | |||||||||||||||
Pension assets | 3,214 | 12,856 | - | - | 16,070 | |||||||||||||||
Unamortized sale and leaseback costs | - | 38,120 | - | 47,575 | 85,695 | |||||||||||||||
Other | 18,177 | 49,393 | 5,188 | (37,939 | ) | 34,819 | ||||||||||||||
56,157 | 687,763 | 27,955 | (239,030 | ) | 532,845 | |||||||||||||||
$ | 3,885,657 | $ | 4,818,405 | $ | 4,057,876 | $ | (3,356,344 | ) | $ | 9,405,594 | ||||||||||
LIABILITIES AND CAPITALIZATION | ||||||||||||||||||||
CURRENT LIABILITIES: | ||||||||||||||||||||
Currently payable long-term debt | $ | - | $ | 738,087 | $ | 887,265 | $ | (16,896 | ) | $ | 1,608,456 | |||||||||
Notes payable- | ||||||||||||||||||||
Associated companies | - | 885,760 | 260,199 | - | 1,145,959 | |||||||||||||||
Other | 700,000 | - | - | - | 700,000 | |||||||||||||||
Accounts payable- | ||||||||||||||||||||
Associated companies | 554,844 | 1,419 | 119,773 | (270,368 | ) | 405,668 | ||||||||||||||
Other | 55,614 | 130,090 | - | - | 185,704 | |||||||||||||||
Accrued taxes | 3,378 | 116,383 | 47,292 | (24,219 | ) | 142,834 | ||||||||||||||
Other | 85,100 | 107,791 | 9,731 | 45,484 | 248,106 | |||||||||||||||
1,398,936 | 1,979,530 | 1,324,260 | (265,999 | ) | 4,436,727 | |||||||||||||||
CAPITALIZATION: | ||||||||||||||||||||
Common stockholder's equity | 2,460,215 | 1,011,907 | 1,579,614 | (2,591,521 | ) | 2,460,215 | ||||||||||||||
Long-term debt and other long-term obligations | - | 1,320,773 | 62,900 | (1,305,717 | ) | 77,956 | ||||||||||||||
2,460,215 | 2,332,680 | 1,642,514 | (3,897,238 | ) | 2,538,171 | |||||||||||||||
NONCURRENT LIABILITIES: | ||||||||||||||||||||
Deferred gain on sale and leaseback transaction | - | - | - | 1,051,871 | 1,051,871 | |||||||||||||||
Accumulated deferred income taxes | - | - | 244,978 | (244,978 | ) | - | ||||||||||||||
Accumulated deferred investment tax credits | - | 35,350 | 24,619 | - | 59,969 | |||||||||||||||
Asset retirement obligations | - | 24,947 | 798,739 | - | 823,686 | |||||||||||||||
Retirement benefits | 9,332 | 56,016 | - | - | 65,348 | |||||||||||||||
Property taxes | - | 25,329 | 22,766 | - | 48,095 | |||||||||||||||
Lease market valuation liability | - | 341,881 | - | - | 341,881 | |||||||||||||||
Other | 17,174 | 22,672 | - | - | 39,846 | |||||||||||||||
26,506 | 506,195 | 1,091,102 | 806,893 | 2,430,696 | ||||||||||||||||
$ | 3,885,657 | $ | 4,818,405 | $ | 4,057,876 | $ | (3,356,344 | ) | $ | 9,405,594 |
120
FIRSTENERGY SOLUTIONS CORP. | ||||||||||||||||||||
CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEETS | ||||||||||||||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||||||||||||||
As of December 31, 2007 | FES | FGCO | NGC | Eliminations | Consolidated | |||||||||||||||
(In thousands) | ||||||||||||||||||||
ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||||||
CURRENT ASSETS: | ||||||||||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 2 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 2 | ||||||||||
Receivables- | ||||||||||||||||||||
Customers | 133,846 | - | - | - | 133,846 | |||||||||||||||
Associated companies | 327,715 | 237,202 | 98,238 | (286,656 | ) | 376,499 | ||||||||||||||
Other | 2,845 | 978 | - | - | 3,823 | |||||||||||||||
Notes receivable from associated companies | 23,772 | - | 69,012 | - | 92,784 | |||||||||||||||
Materials and supplies, at average cost | 195 | 215,986 | 210,834 | - | 427,015 | |||||||||||||||
Prepayments and other | 67,981 | 21,605 | 2,754 | - | 92,340 | |||||||||||||||
556,356 | 475,771 | 380,838 | (286,656 | ) | 1,126,309 | |||||||||||||||
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT: | ||||||||||||||||||||
In service | 25,513 | 5,065,373 | 3,595,964 | (392,082 | ) | 8,294,768 | ||||||||||||||
Less - Accumulated provision for depreciation | 7,503 | 2,553,554 | 1,497,712 | (166,756 | ) | 3,892,013 | ||||||||||||||
18,010 | 2,511,819 | 2,098,252 | (225,326 | ) | 4,402,755 | |||||||||||||||
Construction work in progress | 1,176 | 571,672 | 188,853 | - | 761,701 | |||||||||||||||
19,186 | 3,083,491 | 2,287,105 | (225,326 | ) | 5,164,456 | |||||||||||||||
OTHER PROPERTY AND INVESTMENTS: | ||||||||||||||||||||
Nuclear plant decommissioning trusts | - | - | 1,332,913 | - | 1,332,913 | |||||||||||||||
Long-term notes receivable from associated companies | - | - | 62,900 | - | 62,900 | |||||||||||||||
Investment in associated companies | 2,516,838 | - | - | (2,516,838 | ) | - | ||||||||||||||
Other | 2,732 | 37,071 | 201 | - | 40,004 | |||||||||||||||
2,519,570 | 37,071 | 1,396,014 | (2,516,838 | ) | 1,435,817 | |||||||||||||||
DEFERRED CHARGES AND OTHER ASSETS: | ||||||||||||||||||||
Accumulated deferred income taxes | 16,978 | 522,216 | - | (262,271 | ) | 276,923 | ||||||||||||||
Lease assignment receivable from associated companies | - | 215,258 | - | - | 215,258 | |||||||||||||||
Goodwill | 24,248 | - | - | - | 24,248 | |||||||||||||||
Property taxes | - | 25,007 | 22,767 | - | 47,774 | |||||||||||||||
Pension asset | 3,217 | 13,506 | - | - | 16,723 | |||||||||||||||
Unamortized sale and leaseback costs | - | 27,597 | - | 43,206 | 70,803 | |||||||||||||||
Other | 22,956 | 52,971 | 6,159 | (38,133 | ) | 43,953 | ||||||||||||||
67,399 | 856,555 | 28,926 | (257,198 | ) | 695,682 | |||||||||||||||
TOTAL ASSETS | $ | 3,162,511 | $ | 4,452,888 | $ | 4,092,883 | $ | (3,286,018 | ) | $ | 8,422,264 | |||||||||
LIABILITIES AND CAPITALIZATION | ||||||||||||||||||||
CURRENT LIABILITIES: | ||||||||||||||||||||
Currently payable long-term debt | $ | - | $ | 596,827 | $ | 861,265 | $ | (16,896 | ) | $ | 1,441,196 | |||||||||
Short-term borrowings- | ||||||||||||||||||||
Associated companies | - | 238,786 | 25,278 | - | 264,064 | |||||||||||||||
Other | 300,000 | - | - | - | 300,000 | |||||||||||||||
Accounts payable- | ||||||||||||||||||||
Associated companies | 287,029 | 175,965 | 268,926 | (286,656 | ) | 445,264 | ||||||||||||||
Other | 56,194 | 120,927 | - | - | 177,121 | |||||||||||||||
Accrued taxes | 18,831 | 125,227 | 28,229 | (836 | ) | 171,451 | ||||||||||||||
Other | 57,705 | 131,404 | 11,972 | 36,725 | 237,806 | |||||||||||||||
719,759 | 1,389,136 | 1,195,670 | (267,663 | ) | 3,036,902 | |||||||||||||||
CAPITALIZATION: | ||||||||||||||||||||
Common stockholder's equity | 2,414,231 | 951,542 | 1,562,069 | (2,513,611 | ) | 2,414,231 | ||||||||||||||
Long-term debt and other long-term obligations | - | 1,597,028 | 242,400 | (1,305,716 | ) | 533,712 | ||||||||||||||
2,414,231 | 2,548,570 | 1,804,469 | (3,819,327 | ) | 2,947,943 | |||||||||||||||
NONCURRENT LIABILITIES: | ||||||||||||||||||||
Deferred gain on sale and leaseback transaction | - | - | - | 1,060,119 | 1,060,119 | |||||||||||||||
Accumulated deferred income taxes | - | - | 259,147 | (259,147 | ) | - | ||||||||||||||
Accumulated deferred investment tax credits | - | 36,054 | 25,062 | - | 61,116 | |||||||||||||||
Asset retirement obligations | - | 24,346 | 785,768 | - | 810,114 | |||||||||||||||
Retirement benefits | 8,721 | 54,415 | - | - | 63,136 | |||||||||||||||
Property taxes | - | 25,328 | 22,767 | - | 48,095 | |||||||||||||||
Lease market valuation liability | - | 353,210 | - | - | 353,210 | |||||||||||||||
Other | 19,800 | 21,829 | - | - | 41,629 | |||||||||||||||
28,521 | 515,182 | 1,092,744 | 800,972 | 2,437,419 | ||||||||||||||||
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND CAPITALIZATION | $ | 3,162,511 | $ | 4,452,888 | $ | 4,092,883 | $ | (3,286,018 | ) | $ | 8,422,264 |
121
FIRSTENERGY SOLUTIONS CORP. | ||||||||||||||||||||
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS | ||||||||||||||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||||||||||||||
For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2008 | FES | FGCO | NGC | Eliminations | Consolidated | |||||||||||||||
(In thousands) | ||||||||||||||||||||
NET CASH PROVIDED FROM (USED FOR) | ||||||||||||||||||||
OPERATING ACTIVITIES | $ | 273,827 | $ | (122,171 | ) | $ | 8,108 | $ | 188 | $ | 159,952 | |||||||||
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||||||||||||||
New Financing- | ||||||||||||||||||||
Short-term borrowings, net | 400,000 | 646,975 | 234,921 | - | 1,281,896 | |||||||||||||||
Redemptions and Repayments- | ||||||||||||||||||||
Long-term debt | - | (135,063 | ) | (153,540 | ) | - | (288,603 | ) | ||||||||||||
Common stock dividend payments | (10,000 | ) | - | - | - | (10,000 | ) | |||||||||||||
Net cash provided from financing activities | 390,000 | 511,912 | 81,381 | - | 983,293 | |||||||||||||||
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||||||||||||||
Property additions | (19,406 | ) | (375,391 | ) | (81,545 | ) | (187 | ) | (476,529 | ) | ||||||||||
Proceeds from asset sales | - | 5,088 | - | - | 5,088 | |||||||||||||||
Sales of investment securities held in trusts | - | - | 173,123 | - | 173,123 | |||||||||||||||
Purchases of investment securities held in trusts | - | - | (181,079 | ) | - | (181,079 | ) | |||||||||||||
Loans to associated companies, net | (644,604 | ) | - | - | - | (644,604 | ) | |||||||||||||
Other | 183 | (19,438 | ) | 12 | (1 | ) | (19,244 | ) | ||||||||||||
Net cash used for investing activities | (663,827 | ) | (389,741 | ) | (89,489 | ) | (188 | ) | (1,143,245 | ) | ||||||||||
Net change in cash and cash equivalents | - | - | - | - | - | |||||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period | 2 | - | - | - | 2 | |||||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period | $ | 2 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 2 |
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FIRSTENERGY SOLUTIONS CORP. | ||||||||||||||||||||
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS | ||||||||||||||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||||||||||||||
For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2007 | FES | FGCO | NGC | Eliminations | Consolidated | |||||||||||||||
(In thousands) | ||||||||||||||||||||
NET CASH PROVIDED FROM | ||||||||||||||||||||
OPERATING ACTIVITIES | $ | 65,870 | $ | 55,003 | $ | 177,456 | $ | - | $ | 298,329 | ||||||||||
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||||||||||||||
New Financing- | ||||||||||||||||||||
Equity contribution from parent | 700,000 | 700,000 | - | (700,000 | ) | 700,000 | ||||||||||||||
Short-term borrowings, net | 250,000 | - | - | (52,269 | ) | 197,731 | ||||||||||||||
Redemptions and Repayments- | ||||||||||||||||||||
Long-term debt | - | (616,728 | ) | (128,716 | ) | - | (745,444 | ) | ||||||||||||
Short-term borrowings, net | - | (52,269 | ) | - | 52,269 | - | ||||||||||||||
Net cash provided from (used for) financing activities | 950,000 | 31,003 | (128,716 | ) | (700,000 | ) | 152,287 | |||||||||||||
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||||||||||||||
Property additions | (214 | ) | (81,400 | ) | (35,892 | ) | - | (117,506 | ) | |||||||||||
Sales of investment securities held in trusts | - | - | 178,632 | - | 178,632 | |||||||||||||||
Purchases of investment securities held in trusts | - | - | (188,076 | ) | - | (188,076 | ) | |||||||||||||
Loans to associated companies, net | (316,003 | ) | - | (3,895 | ) | - | (319,898 | ) | ||||||||||||
Investment in subsidiary | (700,000 | ) | - | - | 700,000 | - | ||||||||||||||
Other | 347 | (4,606 | ) | 491 | - | (3,768 | ) | |||||||||||||
Net cash used for investing activities | (1,015,870 | ) | (86,006 | ) | (48,740 | ) | 700,000 | (450,616 | ) | |||||||||||
Net change in cash and cash equivalents | - | - | - | - | - | |||||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period | 2 | - | - | - | 2 | |||||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period | $ | 2 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 2 |
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ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Market Risk Information” in Item 2 above.
ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
(a) EVALUATION OF DISCLOSURE CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES – FIRSTENERGY
FirstEnergy’s chief executive officer and chief financial officer have reviewed and evaluated the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures. The term disclosure controls and procedures means controls and other procedures of a registrant that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the registrant in the reports that it files or submits under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (15 U.S.C. 78a et seq.) is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission's rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under that Act is accumulated and communicated to the registrant's management, including its principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. Based on that evaluation, those officers have concluded that the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures are effective and were designed to bring to their attention material information relating to the registrant and its consolidated subsidiaries by others within those entities.
(b) CHANGES IN INTERNAL CONTROLS
During the quarter ended March 31, 2008, there were no changes in FirstEnergy’s internal control over financial reporting that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.
ITEM 4T. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES – FES, OE, CEI, TE, JCP&L, MET-ED AND PENELEC
(a) EVALUATION OF DISCLOSURE CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Each registrant's chief executive officer and chief financial officer have reviewed and evaluated such registrant's disclosure controls and procedures. The term disclosure controls and procedures means controls and other procedures of a registrant that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the registrant in the reports that it files or submits under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (15 U.S.C. 78a et seq.) is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission's rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under that Act is accumulated and communicated to the registrant's management, including its principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. Based on that evaluation, those officers have concluded that such registrant's disclosure controls and procedures are effective and were designed to bring to their attention material information relating to such registrant and its consolidated subsidiaries by others within those entities.
(b) CHANGES IN INTERNAL CONTROLS
During the quarter ended March 31, 2008, there were no changes in the registrants' internal control over financial reporting that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrants' internal control over financial reporting.
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PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Information required for Part II, Item 1 is incorporated by reference to the discussions in Notes 10 and 11 of the Consolidated Financial Statements in Part I, Item 1 of this Form 10-Q.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
See Item 1A RISK FACTORS in Part I of the Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007 for a discussion of the risk factors of FirstEnergy and the subsidiary registrants. For the quarter ended March 31, 2008, there have been no material changes to these risk factors.
ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
(c) FirstEnergy
The table below includes information on a monthly basis regarding purchases made by FirstEnergy of its common stock.
Period | |||||||||
January 1-31, | February 1-29, | March 1-31, | First | ||||||
2008 | 2008 | 2008 | Quarter | ||||||
Total Number of Shares Purchased (a) | 329,106 | 16,853 | 988,386 | 1,334,345 | |||||
Average Price Paid per Share | $76.56 | $71.68 | $68.55 | $70.57 | |||||
Total Number of Shares Purchased | |||||||||
As Part of Publicly Announced Plans | |||||||||
or Programs (b) | - | - | - | - | |||||
Maximum Number (or Approximate Dollar | |||||||||
Value) of Shares that May Yet Be | |||||||||
Purchased Under the Plans or Programs | - | - | - | - |
(a) | Share amounts reflect purchases on the open market to satisfy FirstEnergy's obligations to deliver common stock under its 2007 Incentive Compensation Plan, Deferred Compensation Plan for Outside Directors, Executive Deferred Compensation Plan, Savings Plan and Stock Investment Plan. In addition, such amounts reflect shares tendered by employees to pay the exercise price or withholding taxes upon exercise of stock options granted under the 2007 Incentive Compensation Plan and the Executive Deferred Compensation Plan, and shares purchased as part of publicly announced plans. |
(b) | On December 10, 2007, FirstEnergy’s plan to repurchase up to 16 million shares of its common stock through June 30, 2008, was concluded. |
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ITEM 6. EXHIBITS
Exhibit Number | ||||||
FirstEnergy | ||||||
12 | Fixed charge ratios | |||||
15 | Letter from independent registered public accounting firm | |||||
31.1 | Certification of chief executive officer, as adopted pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) | |||||
31.2 | Certification of chief financial officer, as adopted pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) | |||||
32 | Certification of chief executive officer and chief financial officer, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 | |||||
FES | ||||||
31.1 | Certification of chief executive officer, as adopted pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) | |||||
31.2 | Certification of chief financial officer, as adopted pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) | |||||
32 | Certification of chief executive officer and chief financial officer, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 | |||||
OE | ||||||
12 | Fixed charge ratios | |||||
15 | Letter from independent registered public accounting firm | |||||
31.1 | Certification of chief executive officer, as adopted pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) | |||||
31.2 | Certification of chief financial officer, as adopted pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) | |||||
32 | Certification of chief executive officer and chief financial officer, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 | |||||
CEI | ||||||
31.1 | Certification of chief executive officer, as adopted pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) | |||||
31.2 | Certification of chief financial officer, as adopted pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) | |||||
32 | Certification of chief executive officer and chief financial officer, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 | |||||
TE | ||||||
31.1 | Certification of chief executive officer, as adopted pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) | |||||
31.2 | Certification of chief financial officer, as adopted pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) | |||||
32 | Certification of chief executive officer and chief financial officer, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 | |||||
JCP&L | ||||||
31.1 | Certification of chief executive officer, as adopted pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) | |||||
31.2 | Certification of chief financial officer, as adopted pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) | |||||
32 | Certification of chief executive officer and chief financial officer, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 | |||||
Met-Ed | ||||||
31.1 | Certification of chief executive officer, as adopted pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) | |||||
31.2 | Certification of chief financial officer, as adopted pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) | |||||
32 | Certification of chief executive officer and chief financial officer, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 | |||||
Penelec | ||||||
12 | Fixed charge ratios | |||||
15 | Letter from independent registered public accounting firm | |||||
31.1 | Certification of chief executive officer, as adopted pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) | |||||
31.2 | Certification of chief financial officer, as adopted pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) | |||||
32 | Certification of chief executive officer and chief financial officer, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 |
Pursuant to reporting requirements of respective financings, FirstEnergy, OE and Penelec are required to file fixed charge ratios as an exhibit to this Form 10-Q.
Pursuant to paragraph (b)(4)(iii)(A) of Item 601 of Regulation S-K, neither FirstEnergy, FES, OE, CEI, TE, JCP&L, Met-Ed nor Penelec have filed as an exhibit to this Form 10-Q any instrument with respect to long-term debt if the respective total amount of securities authorized thereunder does not exceed 10% of its respective total assets, but each hereby agrees to furnish to the SEC on request any such documents.
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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, each Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
May 8, 2008
FIRSTENERGY CORP. | |
Registrant | |
FIRSTENERGY SOLUTIONS CORP. | |
Registrant | |
OHIO EDISON COMPANY | |
Registrant | |
THE CLEVELAND ELECTRIC | |
ILLUMINATING COMPANY | |
Registrant | |
THE TOLEDO EDISON COMPANY | |
Registrant | |
METROPOLITAN EDISON COMPANY | |
Registrant | |
PENNSYLVANIA ELECTRIC COMPANY | |
Registrant |
/s/ Harvey L. Wagner | |
Harvey L. Wagner | |
Vice President, Controller | |
and Chief Accounting Officer |
JERSEY CENTRAL POWER & LIGHT COMPANY | |
Registrant | |
/s/ Paulette R. Chatman | |
Paulette R. Chatman | |
Controller | |
(Principal Accounting Officer) |
127