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Filed Pursuant to Rule 424(b)(3)
Registration No. 333-155584
This preliminary prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus relate to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act of 1933, but are not complete and may be changed. This preliminary prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus are not an offer to sell these securities and are not soliciting an offer to buy these securities in any jurisdiction where the offer or sale is not permitted.
SUBJECT TO COMPLETION, DATED NOVEMBER 16, 2010
PRELIMINARY PROSPECTUS SUPPLEMENT
(To Prospectus dated January 23, 2009)
$
Entergy New Orleans, Inc.
First Mortgage Bonds,
% Series due , 20
We are offering $ million of our First Mortgage Bonds, % Series due , 20 . We will pay interest on the bonds on and of each year. The first interest payment on the bonds will be made on , 2011. We may redeem the bonds, in whole or in part, at any time prior to maturity, at the redemption prices described in this prospectus supplement. The bonds will be issued in denominations of $1,000 and integral multiples thereof.
As described in the accompanying prospectus, the bonds are a series of first mortgage bonds issued under our mortgage, which has the benefit of a first mortgage lien on substantially all of our property.
Investing in the bonds involves risks. See “Risk Factors” on page S-1 of this prospectus supplement.
Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities commission has approved or disapproved of these securities or determined if this prospectus supplement or the accompanying prospectus is truthful or complete. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.
Price to Public | Underwriting Discounts and Commissions | Proceeds to Entergy New Orleans (before expenses) | ||||||||||
Per bond | % | % | % | |||||||||
Total | $ | $ | $ |
The price to public will also include any interest that has accrued on the bonds since their issue date if delivered after that date.
The underwriter expects to deliver the bonds to purchasers through the book-entry facilities of The Depository Trust Company in New York, New York on or about November , 2010.
BNP PARIBAS
November , 2010
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You should rely only on the information contained or incorporated by reference in this prospectus supplement, the accompanying prospectus and any related free writing prospectus required to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, or SEC. We have not, and the underwriter has not, authorized anyone else to provide you with different information. You should not assume that the information contained in this prospectus supplement, the accompanying prospectus or the documents incorporated by reference is accurate as of any date other than as of the dates of these documents or the dates these documents were filed with the SEC. If the information in this prospectus supplement is different from, or inconsistent with, the information in the accompanying prospectus, you should rely on the information contained in this prospectus supplement. We are not, and the underwriter is not, making an offer or sale of the bonds in any jurisdiction where the offer or sale is not permitted.
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Investing in the bonds involves certain risks. In considering whether to purchase the bonds, you should carefully consider the information we have included or incorporated by reference in this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus. In particular, you should carefully consider the information under the heading “Risk Factors” as well as the factors listed under the heading “Forward-Looking Information,” in each case, contained in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009, and our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended March 31, 2010, June 30, 2010 and September 30, 2010, each of which is incorporated by reference herein.
WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION
The SEC allows us to “incorporate by reference” the information filed by us with the SEC, which means that we can refer you to important information without restating it in this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus. The information incorporated by reference is considered to be part of this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus and should be read with the same care. We incorporate by reference our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009, our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended March 31, 2010, June 30, 2010 and September 30, 2010, our Current Report on Form 8-K dated June 14, 2010 (filed June 18, 2010) and any future filings that we make with the SEC under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 if the filings are made prior to the time that all of the bonds are sold in this offering. You can also find more information about us from the sources described under “Where You Can Find More Information” in the accompanying prospectus.
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SELECTED FINANCIAL INFORMATION
You should read our selected financial information set forth below in conjunction with the financial statements and other financial information contained in the documents incorporated by reference in this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus. The selected financial information set forth below has been derived from (1) our annual financial statements for the three-year period ended December 31, 2009, which have been audited by Deloitte & Touche LLP, our independent registered public accounting firm, and incorporated by reference in this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus from our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009, and (2) our unaudited financial statements as of and for the nine months ended September 30, 2010, incorporated by reference in this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus from our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2010. The following material, which is presented in this prospectus supplement solely to furnish summary information, is qualified by, and should be considered in conjunction with, the more detailed information appearing in the documents incorporated by reference herein.
For the Twelve Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||
September 30, | December 31, | |||||||||||||||
2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007 | |||||||||||||
(Dollars in thousands) | ||||||||||||||||
Income Statement Data: | ||||||||||||||||
Operating Revenues | $ | 666,399 | $ | 640,422 | $ | 814,383 | $ | 676,927 | ||||||||
Operating Income | 66,733 | 60,738 | 69,759 | 46,021 | ||||||||||||
Interest and Other Charges | 14,384 | 16,867 | 20,594 | 20,195 | ||||||||||||
Net Income | 36,868 | 31,025 | 34,947 | 24,582 | ||||||||||||
Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges(1) (2) | 4.40 | 3.66 | 3.71 | 2.74 | ||||||||||||
As of September 30, 2010 | ||||||||||||||||
Amount | Percent | |||||||||||||||
(Dollars in thousands) | ||||||||||||||||
Balance Sheet Data: | ||||||||||||||||
Preferred Stock (without sinking fund) | $ | 19,780 | 5.0 | % | ||||||||||||
Common Equity: | ||||||||||||||||
Common Stock and Paid-in Capital | 70,038 | 17.7 | ||||||||||||||
Retained Earnings | 139,133 | 35.1 | ||||||||||||||
Total Common Equity | 209,171 | 52.8 | ||||||||||||||
First Mortgage Bonds(3) | 167,266 | 42.2 | ||||||||||||||
Total Capitalization | $ | 396,217 | 100.0 | % | ||||||||||||
(1) | As defined by Item 503(d) of Regulation S-K of the SEC, “Earnings” represent the aggregate of (a) income before the cumulative effect of an accounting change, (b) taxes based on income, (c) investment tax credit adjustments—net and (d) fixed charges, and “Fixed Charges” include interest (whether expensed or capitalized), related amortization and estimated interest applicable to rentals charged to operating expenses. We accrue interest expense related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense and do not include it in fixed charges. |
(2) | The Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges for the nine months ended September 30, 2010 was 5.49. |
(3) | We intend to use all of the net proceeds we receive from this offering to repay a portion of our outstanding First Mortgage Bonds, and, as a result, this offering will not have a material effect on our capitalization. See “Use of Proceeds.” |
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We anticipate our net proceeds from the sale of the bonds will be approximately $ million after deducting underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses. We intend to use the net proceeds we receive from the issuance and sale of the bonds, together with other available funds, to repay prior to maturity all of our outstanding $25 million First Mortgage Bonds, 6.75% Series due October 15, 2017. Pending the application of the net proceeds, we will invest them in short-term, highly liquid, high-rated money market instruments and/or the Entergy System money pool.
Interest, Maturity and Payment
We are offering $ million of our First Mortgage Bonds, % Series due , 20 . We will pay interest on the bonds on and of each year, beginning on , 2011. Interest will accrue at the rate of % per year and will start to accrue from the date that the bonds are issued. As long as the bonds are registered in the name of The Depository Trust Company (“DTC”) or its nominee, the record date for interest payable on any interest payment date shall be the close of business on the Business Day immediately preceding such interest payment date. We have agreed to pay interest on any overdue principal and, if such payment is enforceable under applicable law, on any overdue installment of interest on the bonds at at rate of % per annum to the holders of record at the close of business on the Business Day immediately preceding our payment of such interest.
Interest on the bonds will be computed on the basis of a 360-day year consisting of twelve 30-day months. If any interest payment date or the maturity date falls on a day that is not a Business Day, the payment due on that interest payment date or the maturity date will be made on the next Business Day, and without any interest or other payment in respect of such delay.
Form and Denomination
The bonds will be issued in denominations of $1,000 and integral multiples thereof. The bonds will be represented by a global certificate without coupons registered in the name of a nominee of DTC. As long as the bonds are registered in the name of DTC or its nominee, we will pay principal, any premium and interest due on the bonds to DTC. DTC will then make payment to its participants for disbursement to the beneficial owners of the bonds as described in the accompanying prospectus under the heading “Description of New Bonds—Book-Entry Securities.”
Optional Redemption
General
At any time prior to , 20 (three months prior to the maturity date of the bonds), we may redeem the bonds, in whole or in part, at our option, on not less than 30 days’ nor more than 60 days’ notice, at a redemption price equal to the greater of (a) 100% of the principal amount of the bonds being redeemed and (b) as determined by the Independent Investment Banker, the sum of the present values of the remaining scheduled payments of principal of and interest on the bonds being redeemed (excluding the portion of any such interest accrued to the redemption date), discounted (for purposes of determining such present values) to the redemption date on a semi-annual basis (assuming a 360-day year consisting of twelve 30-day months) at the Adjusted Treasury Rate plus % plus accrued interest thereon to the redemption date.
At any time on or after , 20 , we may redeem the bonds, in whole or in part, at our option, on not less than 30 days’ nor more than 60 days’ notice, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the bonds being redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon to the redemption date.
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If, at the time notice of redemption is given, the redemption monies are not held by the corporate trustee, the redemption may be made subject to receipt of such monies before the date fixed for redemption, and such notice shall be of no effect unless such monies are so received.
We may apply cash we deposit under any provision of the mortgage, with certain exceptions, to the redemption or purchase, including the purchase from us, of first mortgage bonds of any series under our mortgage including the bonds.
Certain Definitions
“Adjusted Treasury Rate” means, with respect to any redemption date:
(1) the yield, under the heading which represents the average for the immediately preceding week, appearing in the most recently published statistical release designated “H.15(519)” or any successor publication which is published weekly by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and which establishes yields on actively traded United States Treasury securities adjusted to constant maturity under the caption “Treasury Constant Maturities,” for the maturity corresponding to the Comparable Treasury Issue (if no maturity is within three months before or after the remaining term of the bonds, yields for the two published maturities most closely corresponding to the Comparable Treasury Issue shall be determined and the Adjusted Treasury Rate shall be interpolated or extrapolated from such yields on a straight line basis, rounding to the nearest month); or
(2) if such release (or any successor release) is not published during the week preceding the calculation date for the Adjusted Treasury Rate or does not contain such yields, the rate per annum equal to the semiannual equivalent yield to maturity of the Comparable Treasury Issue, calculated using a price for the Comparable Treasury Issue (expressed as a percentage of its principal amount) equal to the Comparable Treasury Price for such redemption date.
The Adjusted Treasury Rate shall be calculated on the third Business Day preceding the redemption date.
“Business Day” means any day other than a Saturday or a Sunday or a day on which banking institutions in The City of New York are authorized or required by law or executive order to remain closed or a day on which the corporate trust office of the corporate trustee is closed for business.
“Comparable Treasury Issue” means the United States Treasury security selected by the Independent Investment Banker as having a maturity comparable to the remaining term of the bonds that would be utilized, at the time of selection and in accordance with customary financial practice, in pricing new issues of corporate debt securities of comparable maturity to the remaining term of the bonds.
“Comparable Treasury Price” means, with respect to any redemption date, (1) the average of five Reference Treasury Dealer Quotations for such redemption date after excluding the highest and lowest such Reference Treasury Dealer Quotations or (2) if the Independent Investment Banker obtains fewer than five such Reference Treasury Dealer Quotations, the average of all such Reference Treasury Dealer Quotations.
“Independent Investment Banker” means one of the Reference Treasury Dealers that we appoint to act as the Independent Investment Banker from time to time or, if any of such firms is unwilling or unable to select the Comparable Treasury Issue, an independent investment banking institution of national standing appointed by us.
“Reference Treasury Dealer” means (1) BNP Paribas Securities Corp. and its successors; provided, however, that if any of the foregoing shall cease to be a primary U.S. Government securities dealer in New York City (a “Primary Treasury Dealer”), we will substitute therefor another Primary Treasury Dealer, and (2) any other Primary Treasury Dealer selected by the Independent Investment Banker after consultation with us.
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“Reference Treasury Dealer Quotations” means, with respect to each Reference Treasury Dealer and any redemption date, the average, as determined by the Independent Investment Banker, of the bid and asked prices for the Comparable Treasury Issue (expressed in each case as a percentage of its principal amount) quoted in writing to the Independent Investment Banker at 5:00 p.m. on the third Business Day preceding such redemption date.
Redemption of Bonds at Option of Holders
The terms of the franchise ordinances pursuant to which we provide electric and gas service to the City of New Orleans state that the City has a continuing option to purchase our electric and gas properties. If all or substantially all of our property subject to our mortgage is taken or acquired by the City of New Orleans or any instrumentality or designee thereof, upon the consummation of this taking or acquisition, we have agreed to direct the corporate trustee to send a written notice to each registered holder of bonds then outstanding stating that each such holder has the right to require us to redeem its bonds, in whole or in part, at the special redemption price of 101% of the principal amount of the bonds being redeemed plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon to the redemption date.
Upon the mailing of notice by the corporate trustee, each holder will have 45 days to deliver written notice to the corporate trustee of such holder’s intent to have its bonds redeemed by us in accordance with the preceding paragraph on the 60th day following the date of the notice upon delivery and surrender of such bond. Only Cede & Co., DTC’s nominee, as the registered holder of the bonds, may elect to have bonds so redeemed. Accordingly, beneficial owners that desire to elect to have bonds so redeemed must instruct the participant through which they own their interest to direct DTC to elect to have their bonds so redeemed on their behalf by sending the requisite written notice to the corporate trustee. In order to ensure that the corporate trustee receives the requisite written notice in a timely fashion, the applicable beneficial owner should consult the participant through which it owns an interest in the bonds for the participant’s deadline for receiving instructions of this type. Participants may have different deadlines for accepting instructions from their customers.
Exchange or Redemption of Bonds upon Merger or Consolidation
We have not waived our right under our mortgage to make an exchange offer for all outstanding first mortgage bonds under the circumstances described in the accompanying prospectus under the heading “Description of the Bonds—Redemption and Purchase—Exchange or Redemption upon Merger or Consolidation.” Accordingly, if this type of exchange offer is made, holders of all outstanding first mortgage bonds, including the bonds, either must accept the exchange offer or tender their bonds to us for redemption at a redemption price of 100% of the principal amount of the bonds plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon to the redemption date.
Dividend Covenant
We will not enter into a dividend covenant with respect to the bonds; however, so long as certain of the first mortgage bonds we have issued prior to the date hereof remain outstanding, holders of the bonds will indirectly benefit from our covenant relating to those outstanding first mortgage bonds to restrict our payment of cash dividends on our common stock in certain circumstances.
Issuance of First Mortgage Bonds
See “Description of New Bonds—Issuance of Additional First Mortgage Bonds” in the accompanying prospectus for a description of the bases upon which we are permitted to issue first mortgage bonds under our mortgage and the related requirements for such issuance. As of September 30, 2010, we could have issued approximately $97.5 million principal amount of additional first mortgage bonds on the basis of property additions and approximately $140.1 million principal amount of additional first mortgage bonds on the basis of
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retired bonds. Based upon the results of our operations for the twelve months ended September 30, 2010, if we were to make an application for authentication and delivery of first mortgage bonds as of the date of this prospectus supplement, solely based on the earnings coverage test described in the accompanying prospectus under “Description of New Bonds—Issuance of Additional First Mortgage Bonds” (and, therefore, not taking into account the property additions and retired bond issuance limitations), we could issue approximately $534 million in principal amount of first mortgage bonds, in addition to the amount of first mortgage bonds then outstanding (assuming an interest rate of 4.5% for additional first mortgage bonds). Such amount will be affected by the issuance of the bonds and the retirement of existing first mortgage bonds with the proceeds of the bonds and by subsequent net earnings. First mortgage bonds in a greater amount may also be issued for the refunding of outstanding first mortgage bonds. The bonds will be issued on the basis of retired bond credits and, therefore, we will not be required to satisfy the earnings coverage test in connection with such issuance.
Trustees
The Bank of New York Mellon is the corporate trustee under the mortgage. Effective prior to the issuance of the bonds, the co-trustee shall resign, be discharged and cease to be our co-trustee; his resignation shall be accepted; and all of his powers as co-trustee as well as his right, title and interest in the trust estate shall terminate. The corporate trustee shall not be required to appoint a co-trustee unless and until we or the corporate trustee determines that it is necessary to do so.
Additional Information
For additional information about the bonds, see “Description of New Bonds” in the accompanying prospectus, including:
1. | additional information about the terms of the bonds, including security, |
2. | general information about our mortgage and the trustees, |
3. | a description of certain restrictions contained in our mortgage, and |
4. | a description of events of default under our mortgage. |
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Under the terms and conditions set forth in the underwriting agreement, dated the date of this prospectus supplement, BNP Paribas Securities Corp., as underwriter, has agreed to purchase, and we have agreed to sell to the underwriter, $ million principal amount of the bonds.
Under the terms and conditions set forth in the underwriting agreement, the underwriter has committed, subject to the terms and conditions set forth therein, to take and pay for all of the bonds if any are taken. The underwriter reserves the right to withdraw, cancel or modify offers to the public and to reject orders in whole or in part.
The underwriter initially proposes to offer the bonds directly to the public at the price to public set forth on the cover page hereof and to certain securities dealers at such price less a concession not in excess of % of the principal amount of the bonds. The underwriter may allow, and such dealers may reallow certain brokers and dealers, a concession not in excess of % of the principal amount of the bonds. After the initial offering of the bonds, the offering price and other selling terms may from time to time be varied by the underwriter.
We have agreed to indemnify the underwriter against certain liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act of 1933.
We estimate that our total expenses for this offering will be $300,000 , excluding underwriting discounts and commissions.
The bonds will constitute a new class of securities with no established trading market. We cannot assure you as to (1) the liquidity of any such market that may develop, (2) the ability of holders of bonds to sell their bonds or (3) the price at which the holders of bonds would be able to sell their bonds. If such a market develops, the bonds could trade at prices that may be higher or lower than their principal amount or purchase price, depending on many factors, including prevailing interest rates, the market for similar debt securities and our business, results of operations, financial condition or prospects. We do not intend to apply for listing of the bonds on any securities exchange or for inclusion of the bonds in any automated quotation system.
In order to facilitate the offering of the bonds, the underwriter may engage in transactions that stabilize, maintain or otherwise affect the price of the bonds. Specifically, the underwriter may over-allot in connection with the offering, creating a short position in the bonds for its own account. In addition, to cover over-allotments or to stabilize the price of the bonds, the underwriter may bid for, and purchase, the bonds in the open market. Finally, the underwriter may reclaim selling concessions allowed to dealers for distributing the bonds in the offering, if they repurchase previously distributed bonds in transactions to cover short positions established by them, in stabilization transactions or otherwise. Any of these activities may stabilize or maintain the market price of the bonds above independent market levels. The underwriter is not required to engage in these activities and may end any of these activities at any time.
It is expected that delivery of the bonds will be made on or about the date specified on the cover page of this prospectus supplement, which will be the fourth business day (T+4) following the date of this prospectus supplement. Under Rule 15c6-1 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, trades in the secondary market generally are required to settle in three business days (T+3), unless the parties to any such trade expressly agree otherwise. Accordingly, the purchasers who wish to trade the bonds on the date of this prospectus supplement or the next business day will be required to specify an alternate settlement cycle at the time of any such trade to prevent a failed settlement. Purchasers of the bonds who wish to trade the bonds on the date of this prospectus supplement or the next business day should consult their own advisors.
In the ordinary course of their respective businesses, the underwriter and certain of its affiliates have in the past and may in the future engage in investment banking, commercial banking or other transactions of a financial nature with us and our affiliates, for which they have received, or may receive, customary compensation. An affiliate of the underwriter is a lender under certain Entergy System credit facilities.
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The financial statements and the related financial statement schedule as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, and for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2009, incorporated by reference in this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus, and the effectiveness of Entergy New Orleans, Inc.’s internal control over financial reporting have been audited by Deloitte & Touche LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their reports, which are incorporated herein by reference. Such financial statements and financial statement schedule have been so incorporated in reliance upon the reports of such firm given upon their authority as experts in accounting and auditing.
The legality of the bonds will be passed upon for us by Dawn Abuso, Senior Counsel—Corporate and Securities, of Entergy Services, Inc., New Orleans, Louisiana, and by Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP, New York, New York. Certain legal matters with respect to the offering of the bonds will be passed on for the underwriter by Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP, New York, New York. Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP regularly represents our affiliates in connection with various matters. Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP may rely on the opinion of Dawn Abuso, as to matters of Louisiana law relevant to its opinion. All matters pertaining to our organization and franchises, titles to property and the lien of the mortgage under Louisiana law will be passed upon for us by Dawn Abuso, Senior Counsel—Corporate and Securities, of Entergy Services, Inc.
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PROSPECTUS
Dated January 26, 2009
$125,000,000
FIRST MORTGAGE BONDS
ENTERGY NEW ORLEANS, INC.
1600 Perdido Street
New Orleans, Louisiana 70112
(504) 670-3620
We -
• | may periodically offer our first mortgage bonds in one or more series; and |
• | will determine the price and other terms of each series of first mortgage bonds when sold, including whether any series will be subject to redemption prior to maturity. |
The First Mortgage Bonds -
• | will be secured by a mortgage that constitutes a first mortgage lien on substantially all of our property; and |
• | will not be listed on a national securities exchange unless otherwise indicated in the accompanying prospectus supplement. |
You -
• | will receive interest payments in the amounts and on the dates specified in an accompanying prospectus supplement. |
This prospectus may be used to offer and sell series of first mortgage bonds only if accompanied by the prospectus supplement for that series. We will provide the specific information for that offering and the specific terms of these first mortgage bonds, including their offering prices, interest rates and maturities, in supplements to this prospectus. The supplements may also add, update or change the information in this prospectus. You should read this prospectus and any supplements carefully before you invest.
Investing in the first mortgage bonds offered by this prospectus involves risks. See “Risk Factors” on page 1.
Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities commission has approved or disapproved of these securities or determined if this prospectus is truthful or complete. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.
We may offer the first mortgage bonds directly or through underwriters, agents or dealers. Each prospectus supplement will provide the terms of the plan of distribution for the related series of first mortgage bonds.
The date of this prospectus is January 26, 2009.
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Investing in the first mortgage bonds involves certain risks. In considering whether to purchase the first mortgage bonds being offered (the “New Bonds”), you should carefully consider the information we have included or incorporated by reference in this prospectus. In particular, you should carefully consider the information under the heading “Risk Factors” as well as the factors listed under the heading “Forward-Looking Information,” in each case, contained in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007, and our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2008, each of which is incorporated by reference herein.
This prospectus is part of a registration statement that we filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), utilizing a “shelf” registration process. Under this shelf process, we may sell the New Bonds described in this prospectus in one or more offerings up to a total dollar amount of $125 million. This prospectus provides a general description of the New Bonds being offered. Each time we sell a series of New Bonds we will provide a prospectus supplement containing specific information about the terms of that series of New Bonds and the related offering. Any prospectus supplement may also add, update or change information contained in this prospectus. If there is any inconsistency between the information in this prospectus and the prospectus supplement, you should rely on the information in the prospectus supplement. It is important for you to consider the information contained in this prospectus and the related prospectus supplement together with the additional information referenced under the heading “Where You Can Find More Information” in making your investment decision.
We are an electric and gas public utility company providing services to customers in New Orleans, Louisiana since 1926.
We are owned by Entergy Corporation. The other major public utilities owned, directly or indirectly, by Entergy Corporation are Entergy Arkansas, Inc., Entergy Gulf States Louisiana, L.L.C., Entergy Louisiana, LLC, Entergy Mississippi, Inc. and Entergy Texas, Inc. Entergy Corporation also owns all of the common stock of System Energy Resources, Inc., the principal asset of which is the Grand Gulf Electric Generating Station.
Capacity and energy from Grand Gulf are allocated among Entergy Arkansas, Inc., Entergy Louisiana, LLC, Entergy Mississippi, Inc. and us under a unit power sales agreement. Our allocated share of Grand Gulf’s capacity and energy together with related costs is 17%. Payments we make under the unit power sales agreement are generally recovered through rates set by the City Council of the City of New Orleans, Louisiana, which regulates our electric and gas service, rates and charges and issuances of securities.
Together with Entergy Arkansas, Inc., Entergy Louisiana Properties, LLC, and Entergy Mississippi, Inc., we own all of the capital stock of System Fuels, Inc. System Fuels, Inc. is a special purpose company that implements and maintains programs for the purchase, delivery and storage of fuel supplies for Entergy Corporation’s utility subsidiaries.
The information above is only a summary and is not complete. You should read the incorporated documents listed under the heading “Where You Can Find More Information” for more specific information concerning our business and affairs, including significant contingencies, significant factors and known trends, our general capital requirements, our financing plans and capabilities, and pending legal and regulatory proceedings.
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WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION
We have filed a registration statement on Form S-3 with the SEC, under the Securities Act of 1933 (the “Securities Act”). This prospectus is part of the registration statement, but the registration statement also contains or incorporates by reference additional information and exhibits. We are subject to the informational requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”), and therefore, we will be required to file annual, quarterly and current reports, proxy statements and other information with the SEC. Our filings are available to the public on the Internet at the SEC’s website located athttp://www.sec.gov. You may read and copy any document that we file with the SEC at the SEC’s public reference room located at:
100 F Street, N.E.
Room 1580
Washington, D.C. 20549-1004.
Call the SEC at 1-800-732-0330 for more information about the public reference room and how to request documents.
The SEC allows us to “incorporate by reference” the information filed by us with the SEC, which means we can refer you to important information without restating it in this prospectus. The information incorporated by reference is an important part of this prospectus, and information that we file later with the SEC will automatically update and supersede this information. We incorporate by reference the documents listed below and all documents that we file with the SEC under Sections 13(a), 13(c), 14 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act after the date of the initial registration statement to which this prospectus relates and prior to the effectiveness of the registration statement, along with any future filings that we make with the SEC under Sections 13(a), 13(c), 14 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act until we have sold all of the New Bonds described in this prospectus:
1. our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007 (the “Annual Report on Form 10-K”);
2. our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended March 31, 2008, June 30, 2008 and September 30, 2008; and
3. our Current Reports on Form 8-K dated September 15, 2008 (filed September 19, 2008) and dated September 30, 2008 (filed September 30, 2008).
You may access a copy of any or all of these filings, free of charge, at our web site, which is located athttp://www.entergy.com, or by writing or calling us at the following address:
Ms. Dawn A. Abuso
Assistant Secretary
Entergy New Orleans, Inc.
639 Loyola Avenue
New Orleans, Louisiana 70113
(504) 576-6755
You may also direct your requests via e-mail to dabuso@entergy.com. We do not intend our Internet address to be an active link or to otherwise incorporate the contents of the website into this prospectus or any accompanying prospectus supplement.
You should rely only on the information incorporated by reference or provided in this prospectus or any accompanying prospectus supplement. We have not, nor have any underwriters, dealers or agents, authorized anyone else to provide you with different information about us or the New Bonds. We are not, nor are any underwriters, dealers or agents, making an offer of the New Bonds in any jurisdiction where the offer is not permitted. You should not assume that the information in this prospectus or any accompanying prospectus supplement is accurate as of any date other than the date on the front of those documents or that the documents incorporated by reference in this prospectus or any accompanying prospectus supplement are accurate as of any date other than the date those documents were filed with the SEC. Our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects may have changed since these dates.
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RATIO OF EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES
We have calculated ratios of earnings to fixed charges pursuant to Item 503 of Regulation S-K of the SEC as follows:
Twelve Months Ended | ||||||||||
September 30, | December 31, | |||||||||
2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | |||||
4.03 | 2.74 | 1.52 | 1.22 | 3.60 | 1.73 |
“Earnings” represent the aggregate of (1) income before the cumulative effect of an accounting change, (2) taxes based on income, (3) investment tax credit adjustments-net and (4) fixed charges. “Fixed Charges” include interest (whether expensed or capitalized), related amortization and estimated interest applicable to rentals charged to operating expenses. We accrue interest expense related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense and do not include it in fixed charges.
The net proceeds from the offering of the New Bonds will be used either (a) to repurchase or redeem one or more series of our outstanding securities on their stated due dates or in some cases prior to their stated due dates or (b) for other general corporate purposes. The specific purposes for the proceeds of a particular series of New Bonds or the specific securities, if any, to be acquired or redeemed with the proceeds of a particular series of New Bonds will be described in the prospectus supplement relating to that series.
General
We will issue the New Bonds offered by this prospectus from time to time in one or more series under one or more separate supplemental indentures to the Mortgage and Deed of Trust dated as of May 1, 1987 with The Bank of New York Mellon, successor corporate trustee, and Stephen J. Giurlando, successor co-trustee, together referred to herein as “trustees.” This Mortgage and Deed of Trust, as amended and supplemented, is referred to in this prospectus as the “mortgage.” All first mortgage bonds issued or to be issued under the mortgage, including the New Bonds offered by this prospectus, are referred to herein as “first mortgage bonds.”
The statements in this prospectus and any accompanying prospectus supplement concerning the New Bonds and the mortgage are not comprehensive and are subject to the detailed provisions of the mortgage. The mortgage and a form of supplemental indenture are filed as exhibits to the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part. You should read these documents for provisions that may be important to you. The mortgage has been qualified under the Trust Indenture Act of 1939. You should refer to the Trust Indenture Act of 1939 for provisions that apply to the New Bonds. Wherever particular provisions or defined terms in the mortgage are referred to under this heading “Description of New Bonds,” those provisions or defined terms are incorporated by reference in this prospectus.
Terms of Specific Series of the New Bonds
The prospectus supplement relating to each series of New Bonds offered by this prospectus will include a description of the specific terms relating to the offering of that series. These terms will include any of the following terms that apply to that series:
1. | the designation, or name, of the series of New Bonds; |
2. | the aggregate principal amount of the series; |
3. | the offering price of the series; |
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4. | the date on which the series will mature; |
5. | the rate or method for determining the rate at which the series will bear interest; |
6. | the date from which interest on the series accrues; |
7. | the dates on which interest on the series will be payable; |
8. | the prices and other terms and conditions upon which we may redeem the series prior to maturity; |
9. | the applicability of a dividend covenant to the series; |
10. | the terms of an insurance policy that will be provided for the payment of principal of and/or interest on the series; |
11. | the rights of a holder to elect repayment; and |
12. | other terms or provisions relating to that series that are not inconsistent with the mortgage. |
As of October 31, 2008, we had approximately $200 million principal amount of first mortgage bonds outstanding.
Payment
The New Bonds and interest thereon will be paid in any coin or currency of the United States of America that at the time of payment is legal tender at the corporate trust office of the corporate trustee in the Borough of Manhattan, City and State of New York. See “—Book-Entry Securities.”
Sinking Fund
The New Bonds will not be subject to any sinking fund, maintenance and improvement fund or similar fund with respect to the first mortgage bonds.
Form and Exchange
The New Bonds will be fully-registered bonds without coupons. See “—Book-Entry Securities.” The New Bonds will be exchangeable for other New Bonds of the same series in equal aggregate principal amounts. No service charge will be made for any registration of transfer or exchange of the New Bonds. However, we may require payment to cover any tax or other governmental charge that may be imposed in connection with a registration of transfer or exchange. We will not be required to provide for the transfer or exchange of any New Bond
• | during the 15 days before an interest payment date (unless such series has a record date for the payment of interest), |
• | during the 15 days before giving any notice of redemption, or |
• | selected for redemption. |
Security
In the opinion of our counsel named under “Legality,” the New Bonds will be secured, equally and ratably with all other first mortgage bonds issued and outstanding under the mortgage, by a valid and direct first mortgage lien on substantially all of our property subject to bankruptcy law and
1. | minor defects and encumbrances customarily found in similar utility properties that do not materially impair the use of the property in the conduct of our business; |
2. | other liens, defects and encumbrances, if any, existing or created at the time of our acquisition of the property; and |
3. | excepted encumbrances. |
In addition to properties released under the terms of the mortgage, the mortgage does not create a lien on the following “excepted property”:
• | cash and securities; |
• | all merchandise, equipment, apparatus, materials or supplies held for sale or other disposition in the usual course of business or consumable during use; |
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• | automobiles, vehicles and aircraft, timber, minerals, mineral rights and royalties; and |
• | receivables, contracts, leases and operating agreements. |
The mortgage contains provisions that impose the lien of the mortgage on property we acquire after the date of the mortgage, other than excepted property, subject to pre-existing liens. However, if we consolidate or merge with, or sell substantially all of our assets to, another corporation, the lien created by the mortgage will generally not cover the property of the successor company, other than the property it acquires from us and improvements, replacements and additions to that property.
The mortgage also provides that the trustees have a lien on the mortgaged property to ensure the payment of their reasonable compensation, expenses and disbursements and for indemnity against certain liabilities. This lien takes priority over the lien securing the first mortgage bonds.
Issuance of Additional First Mortgage Bonds
We can issue up to $10 billion in aggregate principal amount of first mortgage bonds under the mortgage. First mortgage bonds of any series may be issued from time to time on the following bases:
1. | 70% of property additions after adjustments to offset retirements; |
2. | retirements of first mortgage bonds; or |
3. | the deposit of cash with the trustees. |
Property additions generally include, among other things, electric, gas, steam or hot water property acquired after December 31, 1986. Securities, automobiles, vehicles or aircraft, or property used principally for the production or gathering of natural gas are not included as property additions. Deposited cash may be withdrawn upon the bases stated in clause (1) or (2) above.
With certain exceptions in the case of clause (2) above, the issuance of first mortgage bonds must meet an “earnings” test. The adjusted net earnings, before income taxes, for 12 consecutive months of the preceding 18 months, must be at least twice the annual interest requirements on all first mortgage bonds outstanding at the time, including the additional first mortgage bonds to be issued, plus all indebtedness, if any, of prior rank. In general, interest on variable interest rate bonds, if any, is calculated using the average rate in effect during such 12-month period.
As of September 30, 2008, we could have issued approximately $49 million of additional first mortgage bonds on the basis of net property additions and approximately $138 million on the basis of retired first mortgage bonds. In addition, as of September 30, 2008, we could have issued approximately $160 million of additional first mortgage bonds on the basis of then outstanding first mortgage bonds being retired with the proceeds of such issuance.
The mortgage contains restrictions on the issuance of first mortgage bonds against property subject to liens.
Other than the security afforded by the lien of the mortgage and restrictions on the issuance of additional first mortgage bonds described above, there are no provisions of the mortgage that grant the holders of the first mortgage bonds protection in the event of a highly leveraged transaction involving us. However, such a transaction would require regulatory approval from the City Council of the City of New Orleans.
Release and Substitution of Property
Property other than the Municipalization Interest (as defined in the mortgage) may be released without applying any earnings test, upon the bases of:
(a) | the deposit with the trustees of cash or, to a limited extent, purchase money mortgages; |
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(b) | property additions under the mortgage, after adjustments in certain cases to offset retirements and after making adjustments for certain prior lien bonds, if any, outstanding against property additions; and |
(c) | a waiver of the right to issue first mortgage bonds. |
We can withdraw cash upon the bases stated in clauses (b) and (c) above.
Property owned by us on December 31, 1986 may be released from the lien of the mortgage on the basis of its depreciated book value. Unfunded property may be released without meeting the earnings test if, after its release, we would have at least one dollar in unfunded property that remains subject to the lien of the mortgage. All other property may be released on the basis of its cost, as defined in the mortgage.
Dividend Covenant
The terms of outstanding series of first mortgage bonds include our covenant to restrict our payment of cash dividends on our common stock in certain circumstances. Any dividend covenant applicable to a series of New Bonds issued and sold under this prospectus will be described in the prospectus supplement relating to that series of New Bonds. There is no assurance that the terms of future dividend covenants, if any, will be the same as those applicable to our outstanding first mortgage bonds.
Redemption and Purchase
General
The prospectus supplement for a particular series of New Bonds will contain the terms and conditions, if any, for redemption prior to maturity.
Exchange or Redemption upon Merger or Consolidation.
Although we do not currently have any plans to merge or consolidate with Entergy Louisiana, LLC, the mortgage provides that, in the event of such a merger or consolidation, we would have the right to offer to exchange all outstanding New Bonds for a like principal amount of the new merged or consolidated company’s first mortgage bonds with the same interest rates, interest payment dates, maturity dates and redemption provisions. Unless we waive this right, the holders of outstanding New Bonds must either accept such first mortgage bonds in exchange for all or a portion of their New Bonds or tender to us for redemption any New Bonds not so exchanged. The redemption price applicable for these purposes to the New Bonds will be 100% of the principal amount plus accrued interest, unless otherwise provided in a prospectus supplement.
Modification
Your rights as a bondholder may be modified with the consent of the holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of the first mortgage bonds, or, if less than all series of first mortgage bonds are adversely affected, with the consent of the holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of the first mortgage bonds adversely affected. In general, no modification is effective against any bondholder without that bondholder’s consent if it:
1. | affects the terms of payment of principal, premium, if any, or interest; |
2. | affects the lien of the mortgage; or |
3. | reduces the percentage required for modification. |
Defaults and Notices Thereof
Defaults under the mortgage include:
1. | default in the payment of principal; |
2. | default for 30 days in the payment of interest; |
3. | certain events of bankruptcy, insolvency or reorganization; |
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4. | defaults under a supplemental indenture; and |
5. | default in other covenants for 90 days after notice (unless we have in good faith commenced efforts to perform the covenant). |
The trustees may withhold notice of default, except in payment of principal, interest or funds for retirement of first mortgage bonds, if they in good faith determine it is in the interests of the holders of first mortgage bonds.
The corporate trustee or the holders of 25% of the first mortgage bonds may declare the principal and interest due and payable on default. However, a majority of the holders may annul such declaration if the default has been cured. No holder of first mortgage bonds may enforce the lien of the mortgage without giving the trustees written notice of a default and unless
1. | the holders of 25% of the first mortgage bonds have requested the trustees in writing to act, offered them reasonable opportunity to act and indemnity satisfactory to them against the costs, expenses and liabilities to be incurred thereby; and |
2. | the trustees shall have failed to act within 60 days of such request. |
The holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of the first mortgage bonds may direct the time, method and place of conducting any proceedings for any remedy available to the trustees or exercising any trust or power conferred on the trustees. The trustees are not required to risk their funds or incur personal liability if there is reasonable ground for believing that repayment is not reasonably assured.
Evidence to be Furnished to the Corporate Trustee
Compliance with the mortgage provisions is evidenced by written statements of our officers or persons we select or pay. In certain cases, opinions of counsel and certifications of an engineer, accountant, appraiser or other expert (who in some cases must be independent) must be furnished. We must give the corporate trustee an annual certificate as to whether or not we have fulfilled our obligations under the mortgage throughout the preceding year.
Satisfaction and Discharge of Mortgage
After we provide for the payment of all of the first mortgage bonds (including the New Bonds) and after paying all other sums due under the mortgage, the mortgage may be satisfied and discharged. The first mortgage bonds will be deemed to have been paid when money or Eligible Obligations (as defined below) sufficient to pay the first mortgage bonds (in the opinion of an independent accountant in the case of Eligible Obligations) at maturity or upon redemption have been irrevocably set apart or deposited with the corporate trustee, provided that the corporate trustee shall have received an opinion of counsel to the effect that the setting apart or deposit does not require registration under the Investment Company Act of 1940, does not violate any applicable laws and does not result in a taxable event with respect to the holders of the first mortgage bonds prior to the time of their right to receive payment. “Eligible Obligations” means obligations of the United States of America that do not permit the redemption thereof at the issuer’s option.
Book-Entry Securities
The New Bonds will be issued in book-entry only form and will be represented by a registered global New Bond that will be deposited with, or on behalf of, The Depository Trust Company (“DTC”) (or another depository which may replace DTC as depository for the book-entry New Bonds) and registered in the name of the depository or a nominee of the depository.
The following is based solely on information furnished by DTC:
Unless otherwise specified in the applicable prospectus supplement, The Depository Trust Company, New York, New York, will act as securities depository for the New Bonds. The New Bonds will be issued as fully-registered securities registered in the name of Cede & Co. (DTC’s partnership nominee) or such other name as may be
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requested by an authorized representative of DTC. One fully-registered New Bond certificate will be issued for each issue of the New Bonds, in the aggregate principal amount of such issue, and will be deposited with DTC or its custodian.
DTC, the world’s largest securities depository, is a limited-purpose trust company organized under the New York Banking Law, a “banking organization” within the meaning of the New York Banking Law, a member of the Federal Reserve System, a “clearing corporation” within the meaning of the New York Uniform Commercial Code, and a “clearing agency” registered pursuant to the provisions of Section 17A of the Exchange Act. DTC holds and provides asset servicing for over 3.5 million issues of U.S. and non-U.S. equity issues, corporate and municipal debt issues, and money market instruments (from over 100 countries) that DTC’s participants (“Direct Participants”) deposit with DTC. DTC also facilitates the post-trade settlement among Direct Participants of sales and other securities transactions in deposited securities, through electronic computerized book-entry transfers and pledges between Direct Participants’ accounts. This eliminates the need for physical movement of securities certificates. Direct Participants include both U.S. and non-U.S. securities brokers and dealers, banks, trust companies, clearing corporations, and certain other organizations. DTC is a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation (“DTCC”). DTCC is the holding company for DTC, National Securities Clearing Corporation and Fixed Income Clearing Corporation, all of which are registered clearing agencies. DTC is owned by the users of its regulated subsidiaries. Access to the DTCC system is also available to others such as both U.S. and non-U.S. securities brokers and dealers, banks, trust companies, and clearing corporations that clear through or maintain a custodial relationship with a Direct Participant, either directly or indirectly (“Indirect Participants”). DTC has Standard & Poor’s highest rating: AAA. The DTC rules applicable to its Direct and Indirect Participants are on file with the SEC. More information about DTC can be found atwww.dtcc.com andwww.dtc.org.
Purchases of New Bonds under the DTC system must be made by or through Direct Participants, which will receive a credit for the New Bonds on DTC’s records. The ownership interest of each actual purchaser of each New Bond (“Beneficial Owner”) is in turn to be recorded on the Direct and Indirect Participants’ records. Beneficial Owners will not receive written confirmation from DTC of their purchase. Beneficial Owners are, however, expected to receive written confirmations providing details of the transaction, as well as periodic statements of their holdings, from the Direct or Indirect Participant through which the Beneficial Owner entered into the transaction. Transfers of ownership interests in the New Bonds are to be accomplished by entries made on the books of Direct and Indirect Participants acting on behalf of Beneficial Owners. Beneficial Owners will not receive certificates representing their ownership interests in New Bonds, except in the event that use of the book-entry system for the New Bonds is discontinued.
To facilitate subsequent transfers, all New Bonds deposited by Direct Participants with DTC are registered in the name of DTC’s partnership nominee, Cede & Co., or such other name as may be requested by an authorized representative of DTC. The deposit of the New Bonds with DTC and their registration in the name of Cede & Co. or such other DTC nominee do not effect any change in beneficial ownership. DTC has no knowledge of the actual Beneficial Owners of the New Bonds; DTC’s records reflect only the identity of the Direct Participants to whose accounts such New Bonds are credited, which may or may not be the Beneficial Owners. The Direct and Indirect Participants will remain responsible for keeping account of their holdings on behalf of their customers.
Conveyance of notices and other communications by DTC to Direct Participants, by Direct Participants to Indirect Participants, and by Direct Participants and Indirect Participants to Beneficial Owners will be governed by arrangements among them, subject to any statutory or regulatory requirements as may be in effect from time to time. Beneficial Owners of the New Bonds may wish to take certain steps to augment the transmission to them of notices of significant events with respect to the New Bonds, such as redemptions, tenders, defaults, and proposed amendments to the mortgage. For example, Beneficial Owners of New Bonds may wish to ascertain that the nominee holding the New Bonds for their benefit has agreed to obtain and transmit notices to Beneficial Owners. In the alternative, Beneficial Owners may wish to provide their names and addresses to the corporate trustee and request that copies of notices be provided directly to them.
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Redemption notices shall be sent to DTC. If less than all the New Bonds within an issue are being redeemed, DTC’s practice is to determine by lot the amount of the interest of each Direct Participant in such issue to be redeemed.
Neither DTC nor Cede & Co. (nor any other DTC nominee) will consent or vote with respect to New Bonds unless authorized by a Direct Participant in accordance with DTC’s Procedures. Under its usual procedures, DTC mails an Omnibus Proxy to us as soon as possible after the record date. The Omnibus Proxy assigns Cede & Co.’s consenting or voting rights to those Direct Participants to whose accounts New Bonds are credited on the record date (identified in a listing attached to the Omnibus Proxy).
Redemption proceeds, principal payments, interest payments, and any premium payments on the New Bonds will be made to Cede & Co. or such other nominee as may be requested by an authorized representative of DTC. DTC’s practice is to credit Direct Participants’ accounts upon DTC’s receipt of funds and corresponding detail information from us or the corporate trustee on the payable date in accordance with their respective holdings shown on DTC’s records. Payments by Participants to Beneficial Owners will be governed by standing instructions and customary practices, as is the case with securities held for the accounts of customers in bearer form or registered in “street name,” and will be the responsibility of such Participant and not of DTC or its nominee, the corporate trustee, any underwriters or dealers or agents, or us, subject to any statutory or regulatory requirements as may be in effect from time to time. Payment of redemption proceeds, principal payments, interest payments, and any premium payments on the New Bonds to Cede & Co. (or such other nominee as may be requested by an authorized representative of DTC) is the responsibility of either the corporate trustee or us, disbursement of such payments to Direct Participants will be the responsibility of DTC, and disbursement of such payments to the Beneficial Owners will be the responsibility of Direct and Indirect Participants.
DTC may discontinue providing its services as depository with respect to the New Bonds at any time by giving reasonable notice to the corporate trustee or us. Under such circumstances, in the event that a successor depository is not obtained, certificates representing the New Bonds are required to be printed and delivered.
We may decide to discontinue use of the system of book-entry only transfers through DTC (or a successor securities depository). In that event, certificates representing the New Bonds will be printed and delivered to DTC.
Except as provided in the applicable prospectus supplement, a Beneficial Owner will not be entitled to receive physical delivery of the New Bonds. Accordingly, each Beneficial Owner must rely on the procedures of DTC to exercise any rights under the New Bonds.
Methods and Terms of Sale
We may use a variety of methods to sell the New Bonds including:
1. | through one or more underwriters or dealers; |
2. | directly to one or more purchasers; |
3. | through one or more agents; or |
4. | through a combination of any such methods of sale. |
The prospectus supplement relating to a particular series of the New Bonds will set forth the terms of the offering of the New Bonds, including:
1. | the name or names of any underwriters, dealers or agents and any syndicate of underwriters; |
2. | the initial public offering price; |
3. | any underwriting discounts and other items constituting underwriters’ compensation; |
4. | the proceeds we receive from that sale; and |
5. | any discounts or concessions allowed or reallowed or paid by any underwriters to dealers. |
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Underwriters
If we sell the New Bonds through underwriters, they will acquire the New Bonds for their own account and may resell them from time to time in one or more transactions, including negotiated transactions, at a fixed public offering price or at varying prices determined at the time of sale. The underwriters for a particular underwritten offering of New Bonds will be named in the applicable prospectus supplement and, if an underwriting syndicate is used, the managing underwriter or underwriters will be named on the cover page of the applicable prospectus supplement. In connection with the sale of New Bonds, the underwriters may receive compensation from us or from purchasers in the form of discounts, concessions or commissions. The obligations of the underwriters to purchase New Bonds will be subject to certain conditions. The underwriters will be obligated to purchase all of the New Bonds of a particular series if any are purchased. However, the underwriters may purchase less than all of the New Bonds of a particular series should certain circumstances involving a default of one or more underwriters occur.
The initial public offering price and any discounts or concessions allowed or reallowed or paid to dealers by any underwriters may be changed from time to time.
Stabilizing Transactions
Underwriters may engage in stabilizing transactions and syndicate covering transactions in accordance with Rule 104 under the Exchange Act. Stabilizing transactions permit bids to purchase the underlying New Bond so long as the stabilizing bids do not exceed a specified maximum. Syndicate covering transactions involve purchases of the New Bonds in the open market after the distribution has been completed in order to cover syndicate short positions. These stabilizing transactions and syndicate covering transactions may cause the price of the New Bonds to be higher than it would otherwise be if such transactions had not occurred.
Agents
If we sell the New Bonds through agents, the applicable prospectus supplement will set forth the name of any agent involved in the offer or sale of the New Bonds as well as any commissions we will pay to them. Unless otherwise indicated in the applicable prospectus supplement, any agent will be acting on a best efforts basis for the period of its appointment.
Related Transactions
Underwriters, dealers and agents (or their affiliates) may engage in transactions with, or perform services for, us or our affiliates in the ordinary course of business.
Indemnification
We will agree to indemnify any underwriters, dealers, agents or purchasers and their controlling persons against certain civil liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act.
Listing
Unless otherwise specified in the applicable prospectus supplement, the New Bonds will not be listed on a national securities exchange or the Nasdaq Stock Market. No assurance can be given that any broker-dealer will make a market in any series of the New Bonds and, in any event, no assurance can be given as to the liquidity of the trading market for any of the New Bonds.
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The financial statements, the related financial statement schedule, incorporated in this prospectus by reference from Entergy New Orleans, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K, and the effectiveness of Entergy New Orleans, Inc.’s internal control over financial reporting have been audited by Deloitte & Touche LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their reports, which are incorporated herein by reference (which reports (1) express an unqualified opinion on the financial statements and financial statement schedule and include an explanatory paragraph regarding the receipt of an order from the Bankruptcy Court confirming the plan of reorganization which became effective after the close of business on May 8, 2007 and (2) express an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting). Such financial statements and financial statement schedule have been so incorporated in reliance upon the reports of such firm given upon their authority as experts in accounting and auditing.
The legality of the New Bonds offered hereby will be passed upon for us by Joseph J. Cerise, Senior Counsel – Corporate and Securities, of Entergy Services, Inc., New Orleans, Louisiana, as to matters of Louisiana law, and by Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP, New York, New York, as to matters of New York law. Certain legal matters with respect to the New Bonds will be passed on for any underwriters, dealers or agents by Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP, New York, New York. Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP regularly represents us and our affiliates in connection with various matters. Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP and Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP may rely on the opinion of Joseph J. Cerise, as to matters of Louisiana law relevant to their opinions.
All matters pertaining to our organization and franchises, titles to property and the lien of the mortgage under Louisiana law will be passed upon for us by Joseph J. Cerise, Esq., Senior Counsel – Corporate and Securities, of Entergy Services, Inc.
The statements in this prospectus as to matters of law and legal conclusions made under “Description of New Bonds – Security,” have been reviewed by Joseph J. Cerise, Esq. and are set forth herein in reliance upon the opinion of said counsel, and upon his authority as an expert.
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