UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
[x] Quarterly report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934
For the quarterly period ended June 30, 2000
or
[ ] Transition report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934
For the transition period from __________ to __________
Commission file number 1-14768
NSTAR
-----
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Massachusetts 04-3466300
- ------------- ----------
(State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization) Identification No.)
800 Boylston Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02199
- ------------------------------------------ -----
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (617) 424-2000
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
--- ---
Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes of
common stock, as of the latest practicable date.
Class Outstanding at August 4, 2000
- ----- -----------------------------
Common Shares, $1 par value 53,913,446 shares
Part I - Financial Information
Item 1. Financial Statements
- -----------------------------
NSTAR
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income
(Unaudited)
(in thousands, except per share amounts)
Three Months Six Months
Ended June 30, Ended June 30,
------------------------- ---------------------------
2000 1999 2000 1999
-------- -------- ---------- --------
Operating revenues $630,194 $379,290 $1,295,456 $751,160
-------- -------- ---------- --------
Operating expenses:
Fuel, purchased power and cost of gas sold 333,137 144,510 674,013 297,697
Operations and maintenance 98,349 71,318 215,560 150,949
Depreciation and amortization 59,675 47,687 117,967 95,188
Demand side management and
renewable energy programs 17,563 13,433 35,728 26,701
Taxes - property and other 20,873 19,440 46,745 39,948
Income taxes 23,642 24,233 49,087 38,279
-------- -------- ---------- --------
Total operating expenses 553,239 320,621 1,139,100 648,762
-------- -------- ---------- --------
Operating income 76,955 58,669 156,356 102,398
Other income (expense), net 4,375 (884) 7,870 (3,369)
-------- -------- ---------- --------
Operating and other income 81,330 57,785 164,226 99,029
-------- -------- ---------- --------
Interest charges:
Long term debt 33,990 19,444 55,582 38,901
Transition property securitization
certificates 11,456 - 23,402 -
Other 4,088 2,562 17,145 5,233
Allowance for borrowed funds used during
construction (1,132) (474) (1,930) (919)
-------- -------- ---------- --------
Total interest charges 48,402 21,532 94,199 43,215
-------- -------- ---------- --------
Net income 32,928 36,253 70,027 55,814
Preferred stock dividends of subsidiary 1,490 1,490 2,980 2,980
-------- -------- ---------- --------
Earnings available for common shareholders $ 31,438 $ 34,763 $ 67,047 $ 52,834
======== ======== ========= ========
Weighted average common shares outstanding:
Basic 55,597 45,772 56,430 46,356
======== ======== ========= ========
Diluted 55,778 45,963 56,591 46,521
======== ======== ========= ========
Earnings per common share:
Basic $0.57 $0.76 $1.19 $1.14
======== ======== ========= ========
Diluted $0.56 $0.76 $1.18 $1.14
======== ======== ========= ========
Dividends declared per common share $0.50 $0.485 $1.00 $0.97
======== ======== ========= ========
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the condensed consolidated
financial statements.
2
NSTAR
-----
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
(Unaudited)
(in thousands)
Three Months Six Months
Ended June 30, Ended June 30,
---------------------------- ----------------------------
2000 1999 2000 1999
-------- -------- -------- --------
Net income $ 32,928 $ 36,253 $ 70,027 $ 55,814
Other comprehensive income, net:
Unrealized (loss) gain on investments (68,691) 6,205 (45,235) 16,933
-------- ------- -------- --------
Comprehensive (loss) income $(35,763) $ 42,458 $ 24,792 $ 72,747
======== ======== ======== ========
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the condensed consolidated
financial statements.
NSTAR
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Retained Earnings
(Unaudited)
(in thousands)
Three Months Six Months
Ended June 30, Ended June 30,
------------------------- -------------------------
2000 1999 2000 1999
-------- -------- -------- --------
Balance at the beginning of the period $394,907 $356,045 $389,989 $360,509
-------- -------- -------- --------
Net income 32,928 36,253 70,027 55,814
Dividends declared:
Common shares (27,240) (22,093) (55,487) (44,569)
Preferred stock (1,490) (1,490) (2,980) (2,980)
-------- -------- -------- --------
Subtotal 399,105 368,715 401,549 368,774
-------- -------- -------- --------
Provision for preferred stock redemption and issuance
costs (60) (128) (120) (188)
Common share repurchase program (3,959) (2,592) (6,343) (2,591)
-------- -------- -------- --------
Balance at the end of the period $395,086 $365,995 $395,086 $365,995
======== ======== ======== ========
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the condensed consolidated
financial statements.
3
NSTAR
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
(Unaudited)
(in thousands)
June 30, December 31,
2000 1999
---------- ----------
Assets
- ------
Utility plant in service, at original cost $3,971,822 $3,884,728
Less: accumulated depreciation 1,373,438 1,303,893
---------- ----------
2,598,384 2,580,835
Construction work in progress 74,785 67,217
---------- ----------
Net utility plant 2,673,169 2,648,052
Nonutility property 92,262 100,525
Goodwill 479,864 485,990
Equity investments 162,171 173,290
Other investments 120,619 69,942
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents 29,529 168,599
Restricted cash 144,445 147,941
Accounts receivable 390,247 392,702
Accrued unbilled revenues 54,758 34,013
Materials and supplies, at average cost 36,650 48,756
Prepaid expenses and other 320,773 251,222
---------- ----------
Total current assets 976,402 1,043,233
---------- ----------
Regulatory assets 807,795 782,114
Other deferred debits 117,986 164,997
---------- ----------
Total assets $5,430,268 $5,468,143
========== ==========
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the condensed consolidated
financial statements.
4
NSTAR
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
(Unaudited)
(in thousands)
June 30, December 31,
2000 1999
---------- ----------
Capitalization and Liabilities
- ------------------------------
Common equity: `
Common shares, par value $1 per share
(54,543,646 and 58,059,646 shares issued
and outstanding) $ 54,544 $ 58,060
Premium on common shares 937,082 1,075,483
Retained earnings 395,086 389,989
---------- ----------
Total common equity 1,386,712 1,523,532
---------- ----------
Accumulated other comprehensive
(loss) income, net (25,120) 20,115
---------- ----------
Cumulative preferred stock of subsidiary:
Non-mandatory redeemable series 43,000 43,000
Mandatory redeemable series 49,399 49,279
---------- ----------
Total preferred stock 92,399 92,279
---------- ----------
Long-term debt 1,248,375 986,843
Transition property securitization
certificates 616,500 646,559
---------- ----------
Total long-term debt 1,864,875 1,633,402
---------- ----------
Total capitalization 3,318,866 3,269,328
---------- ----------
Current liabilities:
Transition property securitization certificates due within
one year 31,961 50,922
Long-term debt due within one year 107,270 170,470
Notes payable 416,000 458,000
Accounts payable 255,724 193,937
Accrued interest 29,501 21,830
Dividends payable 29,725 29,871
Other 325,934 271,191
---------- ----------
Total current liabilities 1,196,115 1,196,221
---------- ----------
Deferred credits:
Accumulated deferred income taxes 606,819 608,587
Accumulated deferred investment tax credits 40,379 41,946
Other 268,089 352,061
---------- ----------
Total deferred credits 915,287 1,002,594
---------- ----------
Commitments and contingencies
Total capitalization and liabilities $5,430,268 $5,468,143
========== ==========
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the condensed consolidated
financial statements.
5
NSTAR
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(Unaudited)
(in thousands)
Six Months Ended June 30,
2000 1999
--------- ---------
Operating activities:
Net income $ 70,027 $ 55,814
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by
operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization 130,092 102,693
Deferred income taxes and investment tax credits 18,017 (7,526)
Allowance for borrowed funds used during construction (1,930) (919)
Power contract buyout (6,198) (65,780)
Net changes in working capital (27,442) 57,442
Other, net (87,886) (71,139)
--------- ---------
Net cash provided by operating activities 94,680 70,585
--------- ---------
Investing activities:
Plant expenditures (excluding AFUDC) (70,400) (59,929)
Nuclear fuel expenditures (2,952) (15,751)
Investments (60,919) (57,414)
--------- ---------
Net cash used in investing activities (134,271) (133,094)
--------- ---------
Financing activities:
Common share repurchases (147,881) (64,744)
Long-term debt redemptions (102,176) (9,000)
Transition property securitization certificates redemptions (49,020) -
Long-term debt issue, net 298,825 -
Net change in notes payable (42,000) 113,750
Dividends paid (57,227) (48,340)
--------- ---------
Net cash used in financing activities (99,479) (8,334)
--------- ---------
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents (139,070) (70,843)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 168,599 98,989
--------- ---------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period $ 29,529 $ 28,146
========== ==========
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:
Cash paid during the period for:
Interest, net of amounts capitalized $ 54,250 $ 41,411
========== ==========
Income taxes $ 19,470 $ 335
========== ==========
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the condensed consolidated
financial statements.
6
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
- --------------------------------------------------------------
The accompanying Notes should be read in conjunction with the Notes to the
Consolidated Financial Statements included in NSTAR's 1999 Annual Report on Form
10-K.
A) Merger of BEC Energy and Commonwealth Energy System
On August 25, 1999, BEC Energy (BEC) and Commonwealth Energy System (COM/Energy)
completed a merger transaction to create NSTAR, an energy delivery company
serving approximately 1.3 million customers in Massachusetts including more than
one million electric customers in 81 communities and 240,000 gas customers in 51
communities. NSTAR is an exempt public utility holding company under the
provisions of the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935. NSTAR's utility
subsidiaries include Boston Edison Company, Commonwealth Electric Company,
Cambridge Electric Light Company, Canal Electric Company and Commonwealth Gas
Company. NSTAR's nonutility operations include telecommunications, district
heating and cooling operations and liquefied natural gas services.
B) Basis of Presentation
The merger was accounted for as an acquisition of COM/Energy by BEC using the
purchase method of accounting. Under this method, the accompanying unaudited
condensed consolidated financial statements of NSTAR for the three and six-month
periods ended June 30, 2000 include the results of operations, comprehensive
income and cash flows of BEC for the entire period presented consolidated with
those of COM/Energy. However, the 1999 unaudited condensed consolidated
financial statements reflect the results of operations, comprehensive income and
cash flows solely of BEC.
The financial information presented as of June 30, 2000 and for the periods
ended June 30, 2000 and 1999 have been prepared from NSTAR's books and records
without audit by independent accountants. Financial information as of December
31, 1999 was derived from the audited consolidated financial statements of
NSTAR, but does not include all disclosures required by generally accepted
accounting principles (GAAP). In the opinion of NSTAR's management, all
adjustments (which are of a normal recurring nature) necessary for a fair
presentation of the financial information for the periods indicated have been
included. Certain reclassifications have been made to the prior year data to
conform with the current presentation.
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires NSTAR
and its subsidiaries to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported
amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and
liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of
revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ
from these estimates.
The results of operations for the periods ended June 30, 2000 and 1999 are not
indicative of the results which may be expected for an entire year. Kilowatt-
hour sales and revenues are typically higher in the winter and summer than in
the spring and fall as sales tend to vary with weather conditions. Gas sales
7
and revenues are typically higher in the winter months than during other periods
of the year.
C) Securitization
On July 27, 1999, a wholly owned special purpose subsidiary (SPS) of Boston
Edison, BEC Funding LLC (BEC Funding), closed the sale of $725 million of notes
to a special purpose trust created by two Massachusetts state agencies. The
trust then concurrently closed the sale of $725 million of electric rate
reduction certificates to the public. The certificates are secured by a portion
of the transition charge assessed on Boston Edison's retail customers as
permitted under the Massachusetts Electric Industry Restructuring Act (the
Restructuring Act) and authorized by the Massachusetts Department of
Telecommunications and Energy (MDTE). These certificates are non-recourse to
Boston Edison. Principal redemptions will occur on a semi-annual basis over the
life of the certificates. Furthermore, Boston Edison is required to transfer
funds collected on a daily basis to its trustee and are held in escrow. These
funds are used to meet BEC Funding's semi-annual principal and interest
payments.
D) Contingencies
1. Environmental Matters
The utility subsidiaries of NSTAR are involved in approximately 30 properties
where oil or hazardous materials were spilled or released. As such, the
companies are required to clean up these remaining properties in accordance with
a timetable developed by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental
Protection. There are uncertainties associated with these costs due to the
complexities of cleanup technology, regulatory requirements and the particular
characteristics of the different sites. NSTAR subsidiaries also face possible
liability as a potentially responsible party in the cleanup of six multi-party
hazardous waste sites in Massachusetts and other states where it is alleged to
have generated, transported or disposed of hazardous waste at the sites. NSTAR
currently expects to have only a small percentage of the total potential
liability for these sites. Approximately $7 million is included in the June 30,
2000 and December 31, 1999 Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets related to
these cleanup liabilities. Management is unable to fully determine a range of
reasonably possible cleanup costs in excess of the accrued amount. Based on its
assessments of the specific site circumstances, management does not believe that
it is probable that any such additional costs will have a material impact on
NSTAR's consolidated financial position.
Public concern continues regarding electro magnetic fields (EMF) associated with
electric transmission and distribution facilities and appliances and wiring in
buildings and homes. Such concerns have included the possibility of adverse
health effects caused by EMF as well as perceived effects on property values.
NSTAR continues to support research into the subject and participates in the
funding of industry-sponsored studies. It is aware that public concern
regarding EMF in some cases has resulted in litigation, in opposition to
existing or proposed facilities in proceedings before regulators or in requests
for legislation or regulatory standards concerning EMF levels. It has addressed
issues relative to EMF in various legal and regulatory proceedings and in
discussions with customers and other concerned persons. However, to date it has
not been significantly affected by these developments. NSTAR continues to
monitor all aspects of the EMF issue.
ComGas is participating in the assessment of a number of former manufactured gas
plant (MGP) sites and alleged MGP waste disposal locations to determine if
8
and to what extent such sites have been contaminated and whether ComGas may be
responsible for remedial action. As of June 30, 2000 and December 31, 1999,
ComGas has recorded a liability and corresponding regulatory asset amounting to
$2.2 million as an estimate for site cleanup costs for several MGP sites for
which ComGas was previously cited as a Potentially Responsible Party. The MDTE
has historically approved recovery of costs associated with MGP sites.
Estimates related to environmental remediation costs are reviewed and adjusted
periodically as further investigation and assignment of responsibility occurs.
NSTAR is unable to estimate its ultimate liability for future environmental
remediation costs. However, in view of NSTAR's current assessment of its
environmental responsibilities, existing legal requirements and regulatory
policies, management does not believe that these matters will have a material
adverse effect on NSTAR's results of operations, cash flows or financial
position.
2. Generating Unit Performance Programs
The MDTE's generating unit performance programs ceased March 1, 1998. Under
these programs, the recovery of incremental purchased power costs resulting from
generating unit outages occurring through the retail access date was subject to
review by the MDTE. Proceedings relative to generating unit performance,
including the review of replacement power costs associated with the shutdown of
the Connecticut Yankee nuclear electric generating unit, were approved by the
MDTE on August 1, 2000. The approved MDTE settlement will not have a material
impact on NSTAR's consolidated financial position, results of operation or cash
flows.
3. Industry and Corporate Restructuring Legal Proceedings
The MDTE order approving the Boston Edison electric restructuring settlement
agreement was appealed by certain parties to the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial
Court. One settlement agreement appeal remains pending. However, there has to
date been no briefing, hearing or other action taken with respect to this
proceeding. Management is currently unable to determine the outcome of this
proceeding. However, if an unfavorable outcome were to occur, there could be a
material adverse impact on business operations, the consolidated financial
position, cash flows or results of operations for a reporting period.
4. Regulatory Proceedings
Each NSTAR retail electric subsidiary filed proposed adjustments to their
standard offer and transition charges with the MDTE in November 1999. The MDTE
approved these proposed adjustments effective January 1, 2000. The MDTE
continues to examine NSTAR's cost recovery mechanisms. Annual proceedings are
conducted before the MDTE for the purpose of reconciliation of costs and
revenues related to NSTAR's electric distribution subsidiaries' transition
charge and the charges for standard offer and default service. The Attorney
General has contested cost allocations related to Boston Edison's wholesale
customers related to 1998 and succeeding years. Management is unable to
determine the outcome of the MDTE proceedings. However, if an unfavorable
outcome were to occur, there would be a material adverse impact on NSTAR's
consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows in the
near term.
In October 1997, the MDTE opened a proceeding to investigate Boston Edison's
compliance with a 1993 order that permitted the formation of Boston Energy
9
Technology Group (BETG) and authorized Boston Edison to invest up to $45 million
in unregulated activities. Hearings were completed during the first quarter of
1999. An MDTE ruling is expected by the end of 2000.
Management is currently unable to determine the outcome of this proceeding.
However, if an unfavorable outcome were to occur, there could be a material
adverse impact on business operations, the consolidated financial position, cash
flows or results of operations for a reporting period.
5. Rate Plan
In July 1999, the MDTE approved a rate plan filed by the utility subsidiaries of
BEC and COM/Energy in connection with the merger. A group of four intervenors
and the Massachusetts Attorney General filed two separate appeals of the MDTE's
rate plan order with the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court (SJC) in August
1999. While management anticipates that the MDTE's decision to approve the rate
plan will be upheld by the SJC, it is unable to determine the ultimate outcome
of these appeals.
6. Other Matters
In the normal course of its business NSTAR and its subsidiaries are also
involved in certain other legal and regulatory matters. Management is unable to
fully determine a range of reasonably possible costs in excess of amounts
accrued. Based on the information currently available, management does not
believe that it is probable that any such additional costs will have a material
impact on NSTAR's consolidated financial position. However, it is reasonably
possible that additional legal and regulatory costs that may result from a
change in estimates could have a material impact on the results of a reporting
period in the near term.
E) Income Taxes
The following table reconciles the statutory federal income tax rate to the
annual estimated effective income tax rate for 2000 and the actual effective
income tax rate for the year ended December 31, 1999.
2000 1999
---- -----
Statutory tax rate 35.0 % 35.0 %
State income tax, net of federal income tax benefit 5.2 5.5
Investment tax credit amortization (1.2) (11.3)
Goodwill amortization 2.1 0.4
Other 2.5 (0.5)
---- -----
Effective tax rate 43.6 % 29.1 %
The effective tax rate for 1999 reflects $20.8 million of investment tax credits
recognized as a result of generation asset divestiture in July 1999. The
corresponding estimated effective tax rate for the same period in 1999 was
39.1%.
10
F) Earnings Per Common Share
The following table illustrates the reconciliation between basic and diluted
earnings per share (EPS) computations.
(in thousands, except per share amounts)
Three Months Six Months
Ended June 30, Ended June 30,
-------------------------- ---------------------------
2000 1999 2000 1999
------- ------- ------- -------
Earnings available for common shareholders $31,438 $34,763 $67,047 $52,834
Basic EPS $ 0.57 $ 0.76 $ 1.19 $ 1.14
Diluted EPS $ 0.56 $ 0.76 $ 1.18 $ 1.14
Weighted average common shares outstanding for
basic EPS 55,597 45,772 56,430 46,356
Effect of dilutive securities:
Weighted average dilutive potential common
shares related to share-based compensation 181 191 161 165
Weighted average common shares outstanding for
diluted EPS 55,778 45,963 56,591 46,521
G) Segment and Related Information
For the purpose of providing segment information, NSTAR's principal operating
segments, or its traditional core businesses, are the electric and natural gas
utilities that provide energy delivery services in numerous cities and towns in
Massachusetts. NSTAR subsidiaries also supply electricity at wholesale for
resale to other utilities. The unregulated operating segments engage in non-
utility business activities. Such activities include telecommunications,
district heating and cooling operations, and liquefied natural gas services.
The accounting policies used to develop segment information correspond to those
described in Note B, "Basis of Presentation." NSTAR evaluates performance based
on earnings from operations before income taxes and nonrecurring gains and
losses.
11
Financial data for the operating segments are as follows:
(in thousands)
- --------------
Unregulated
Utility Operations Nonutility Consolidated
Electric Gas Operations Total
-------------------- ----------------- ------------------- -------------------
Three months ended June 30, 2000
- --------------------------------
Operating revenues $ 542,178 $ 68,388 $ 19,628 $ 630,194
Segment net income (loss) $ 37,771 $ 2,292 $ (7,135) $ 32,928
1999
- ----
Operating revenues $ 379,144 - $ 146 $ 379,290
Segment net income (loss) $ 41,178 - $ (4,925) $ 36,253
Six months ended June 30, 2000
- ------------------------------
Operating revenues $1,057,993 $194,409 $ 43,054 $1,295,456
Segment net income (loss) $ 61,561 $ 18,605 $(10,139) $ 70,027
1999
- ----
Operating revenues $ 750,339 - $ 821 $ 751,160
Segment net income (loss) $ 66,036 - $(10,222) $ 55,814
Total assets
- ------------
June 30, 2000 $4,399,434 $446,470 $584,364 $5,430,268
December 31, 1999 $4,411,630 $459,887 $611,371 $5,482,888
H) RCN Joint Venture and Investment Conversion
NSTAR Communications, Inc. (NSTAR COM), a subsidiary of NSTAR, is a participant
in a telecommunications venture with RCN Telecom Services, Inc. of Massachusetts
(RCN), a subsidiary of RCN Corporation. NSTAR accounts for its investment in
the joint venture using the equity method of accounting. As part of the joint
venture agreement, NSTAR has the option to exchange portions of its joint
venture interest for shares of RCN common stock at specified periods. During
1998, NSTAR exercised its option to convert a portion of its interest. In the
first quarter of 1999, NSTAR received 1.1 million shares of RCN common stock in
exchange for a portion of its joint venture interest that had a net book value
of $7.8 million. In May 1999, BETG notified RCN of its intention to exercise its
option to convert an additional portion of its joint venture interest that had a
net book value of $72.3 million at that time. In March 2000, NSTAR received
approximately 3 million shares of RCN common stock associated with this second
exchange. In connection with these two exchanges, as of the date of each
respective conversion, NSTAR COM recorded a deferred gain for the difference
between the net book value of its equity investment in the joint venture and the
fair value of the shares received. In accordance with Generally Accepted
Accounting Principals ("GAAP"), this gain must be deferred until one of a number
of items occur, such as, the joint venture becoming cash flow positive,
generating net income, or the elimination of NSTAR COM's investment interest in
the joint venture. As a result, the total deferred gain to be recognized in
future periods as of June 30, 2000 is approximately $64 million and is reflected
on the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as a component of
other deferred credits.
The RCN shares received are included in Other investments on the June 30, 2000
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets at their fair value of approximately $104
million. This fair value may increase or decrease, at any time, as a result of
changes in the market price of RCN common stock. The unrealized gain or loss
due to the changes in fair value on these shares during each period is
reflected, net of associated income taxes, as comprehensive (loss) income on the
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for
12
the three and six months ended June 30, 2000 and 1999. The cumulative increase
or decrease in fair value of these shares as of June 30, 2000 and December 31,
1999 is reflected as accumulated other comprehensive income, net on the
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
In addition, on April 6, 2000, NSTAR issued its third notice to exchange
substantially all of its remaining interest with a net book value as of June 30,
2000 of approximately $129 million in the joint venture into common stock of
RCN. The ultimate number of RCN shares to be received associated with this
third notice is expected to be determined in the latter part of 2000.
Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis
- ---------------------------------------------
NSTAR was created through the merger of BEC Energy (BEC) and Commonwealth Energy
System (COM/Energy) on August 25, 1999 as an exempt public utility holding
company. NSTAR's utility subsidiaries are Boston Edison Company (Boston
Edison), Commonwealth Electric Company (ComElectric), Cambridge Electric Light
Company (Cambridge Electric), Canal Electric Company (Canal Electric) and
Commonwealth Gas Company (ComGas).
The electric and natural gas industries have continued to change in response to
legislative, regulatory and marketplace demands for improved customer service at
lower prices. These demands have resulted in an increasing trend in the
industry to seek competitive advantages and other benefits through business
combinations. NSTAR was created to operate in this new marketplace by combining
the resources of its utility subsidiaries and concentrating its activities in
the transmission and distribution of energy. This is illustrated by the sale of
BEC's and COM/Energy's generating facilities during 1999 and 1998.
Merger of BEC Energy and Commonwealth Energy System
An integral part of the merger is the rate plan that was filed by the retail
utility subsidiaries of BEC and COM/Energy that was approved by the
Massachusetts Department of Telecommunications and Energy (MDTE) on July 27,
1999. Significant elements of the rate plan include a four-year distribution
rate freeze, recovery of the acquisition premium (Goodwill) over 40 years and
recovery of transaction and integration costs (costs to achieve) over 10 years.
Refer to the "Retail Electric Rates" section of this discussion for more
information.
The merger was accounted for by NSTAR as an acquisition of COM/Energy by BEC
under the purchase method of accounting. Goodwill amounted to approximately
$486 million, resulting in an annual amortization of goodwill of approximately
$12.2 million. Costs to achieve are being amortized based on the filed estimate
of $111 million over 10 years. NSTAR's retail utility subsidiaries will
reconcile the ultimate costs to achieve with that estimate and any difference is
expected to be recovered over the remainder of the amortization period. To
date, a majority of costs to achieve the merger are for severance costs
associated with a voluntary separation program in which approximately 700
employees elected to participate. These amounts are expected to be offset
13
by ongoing future cost savings from streamlined operations and avoidance of
costs that would have otherwise been incurred by BEC and COM/Energy.
In July 1999, the MDTE approved a rate plan filed by the utility subsidiaries of
BEC and COM/Energy in connection with the merger. A group of four intervenors
and the Massachusetts Attorney General filed two separate appeals of the MDTE's
rate plan order with the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court (SJC) in August
1999. While management anticipates that the MDTE's decision to approve the rate
plan will be upheld by the SJC, it is unable to determine the ultimate outcome
of these appeals.
Generating Asset Divestiture
To complete its divestiture of generating assets, Boston Edison sold Pilgrim
Nuclear Generating Station (Pilgrim) in July 1999 for $81 million to Entergy
Nuclear Generating Company. As part of the sale, Boston Edison transferred
approximately $228 million in decommissioning funds to Entergy. Entergy, by
contract, assumed all future liability related to the ultimate decommissioning
of the plant. The difference between the total proceeds from the sale and the
net book value of the Pilgrim assets plus the net amount to fully fund the
decommissioning trust is included in regulatory assets on the accompanying
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as such amounts are collected from
customers.
Securitization of Boston Edison's Transition Charge
On July 27, 1999, BEC Funding LLC, a wholly owned special-purpose subsidiary of
Boston Edison, closed the sale of $725 million of notes to a special purpose
trust created by two Massachusetts state agencies. The trust then concurrently
closed the sale of $725 million of electric rate reduction certificates as a
public offering. The certificates are secured by a portion of the transition
charge assessed on Boston Edison's retail customers as permitted under the
Massachusetts Electric Restructuring Act and authorized by the MDTE. These
certificates are non-recourse to Boston Edison.
Retail Electric Rates
As a result of the Restructuring Act, the regulated retail electric subsidiaries
of NSTAR currently provide their standard offer customers service at inflation
adjusted rates that are 15% lower than rates in effect prior to March 1, 1998,
the retail access date.
All distribution customers must pay a transition charge as a component of their
rate. The purpose of the transition charge is to allow for the collection of
generation-related costs that would not be collected in the competitive energy
supply market. The plant and regulatory asset balances that will be recovered
through the transition charge until 2009 were approved by the MDTE.
The Restructuring Act requires regulated utilities to obtain and resell power to
customers that choose not to buy energy from a competitive energy supplier.
This is referred to as "standard offer service." Standard offer service will be
available to eligible customers through 2004 at prices approved by the MDTE.
NSTAR on behalf of Boston Edison, Cambridge Electric and ComElectric,
14
completed an evaluation of several proposals to transfer all of the unit output
entitlements in power purchase contracts to certain energy providers through
2000. As a result, NSTAR entered into six-month competitive power supply
agreements effective July 1, 2000 for the balance of the year. NSTAR is
continuing to evaluate further short and longer-term contracts that ultimately
may assume full responsibility for providing customers with standard offer
service through 2004. The cost of providing standard offer service, which
includes purchased power costs, is recovered from customers on a fully
reconciling basis. New retail customers in the NSTAR electric service territory
and previously existing customers that are no longer eligible for the standard
offer service and have not chosen to receive service from a competitive
supplier, are on "default service." The price of default service is intended to
reflect the average competitive market price for power.
NSTAR's cost to provide default service, as well as, standard offer service is
in excess of the price it is currently allowed to bill. As a result, NSTAR has
recorded, as June 30, 2000, a regulatory asset of approximately $138.2 million
and is reflected on the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet.
Under its restructuring settlement agreement, Boston Edison's distribution
business is subject to a minimum and maximum return on average common equity
(ROE). The ROE is subject to a floor of 6% and a ceiling of 11.75%. If the ROE
is below 6%, Boston Edison is authorized to add a surcharge to distribution
rates in order to achieve the 6% floor. If the ROE is above 11%, it is required
to adjust distribution rates by an amount necessary to reduce the calculated ROE
between 11% and 12.5% by 50%, and a return above 12.5% by 100%. No adjustment
is made if the ROE is between 6% and 11%. This rate mechanism expires on
December 31, 2000. The cost of providing transmission service to all NSTAR
distribution customers is recovered on a fully reconciling basis.
Each NSTAR retail electric subsidiary filed proposed adjustments to their
standard offer and transition charges with the MDTE in November 1999. The MDTE
approved these proposed adjustments effective January 1, 2000. The MDTE
continues to examine NSTAR's cost recovery mechanisms. Annual proceedings are
conducted before the MDTE for the purpose of reconciliation of costs and
revenues related to NSTAR's electric distribution subsidiaries' transition
charge and the charges for standard offer and default service. The Attorney
General has contested cost allocations related to Boston Edison's wholesale
customers related to 1998 and succeeding years. Management is unable to
determine the outcome of the MDTE proceedings. However, if an unfavorable
outcome were to occur, there would be a material adverse impact on NSTAR's
consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows in the
near term.
Natural Gas Industry Restructuring and Rates
In February 1999, the MDTE determined that the capacity market in Massachusetts
was not yet workably competitive to allow it to remove traditional regulatory
controls that were designed to ensure the reliability of gas service to
customers. The MDTE further reaffirmed that the local distribution companies
must continue with their obligation to plan for and procure sufficient upstream
capacity.
Results of Operations - Three Months Ended June 30, 2000 vs. Three Months
Ended June 30, 1999
Due to the application of purchase method accounting, the results for 2000
reflect the combined performance of BEC Energy and COM/Energy, as NSTAR. Results
for the corresponding period in 1999 only reflect BEC Energy.
As further described below, earnings per common share were as follows:
15
Earnings per Common Share Three Months Ended June 30,
2000 1999 % Change
----- ----- ------------------
Basic $0.57 $0.76 (25)%
Diluted $0.56 $0.76 (26.3)%
The results of operations for the quarter are not indicative of the results that
may be expected for the entire year due to the seasonality of electric and gas
sales and revenues. Refer to Note B to the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated
Financial Statements.
Operating revenues
Operating revenues increased 66.2% during the second quarter of 2000 as follows:
(in thousands)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Retail electric revenues $149,312
Wholesale electric revenues (4,548)
Other revenues 42,408
Gas revenues 63,732
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Increase in operating revenues $250,904
========
Retail electric revenues were $481.5 million in 2000 compared to $332.2 million
in 1999, an increase of approximately $149.3 million or 45%. The change in
retail revenues reflects an increase of $116.8 million representing the addition
of revenues from the former COM/Energy retail electric subsidiaries and the
impact of a 5.0% increase in retail kilowatt-hour (kWh) sales. The increase in
retail kWh sales is the result of a strong local economy and higher than normal
early summer temperatures. In addition, NSTAR's retail subsidiaries increased
their standard offer rates in January 2000. The revenues charged for standard
offer service are fully reconciled to the costs incurred and have no impact on
net income.
Wholesale electric revenues were $33.5 million in 2000 compared to $38 million
in 1999, a decrease of $4.5 million or 12%. This decrease in wholesale revenues
primarily reflects a decrease in contract sales due to the sale of Pilgrim
station in July 1999.
Other revenues were $51.5 million in 2000 compared to $9.1 million in 1999, an
increase of $42.4 million. This increase primarily reflects an additional $31
million for the non-utility operations of COM/Energy.
Gas revenues were $63.7 million in 2000 representing revenues from COM/Gas.
Retail Electric Sales and Revenues
Retail kWh sales increased 39.8% in the quarter ended June 30, 2000. This
increase includes an increase of 35.7% representing the former COM/Energy
subsidiaries. Without the impact of the merger, kWh sales for 2000 would have
increased 3.1% from 1999. This increase in retail kWh sales is primarily due
16
to weather conditions that favored electric sales as well as a robust housing
market and continued improvement in regional economic conditions. The
commercial sector represents approximately 50% of electric operating revenues.
Gas Sales
Firm gas sales for the quarter ended June 30, 2000 increased nearly 30% over the
prior year primarily due to the colder than normal early spring temperatures and
increased number of COM/Gas customers. The increase in gas sales also reflects
the impact of higher oil prices.
Operating expenses
Fuel, purchased power and cost of gas sold was $333.1 million in 2000 compared
to $144.5 million in 1999, an increase of $188.6 million or 131%. The increase
reflects $129.8 million of expense from the COM/Energy subsidiaries. Purchased
power expense increased $48.9 million due to the sale of Pilgrim in 1999. NSTAR
adjusts its electric rates to collect the costs related to fuel and purchased
power from customers on a fully reconciling basis. Fuel and purchased power
expenses reflect an increase of $23 million in 2000 and $15 million in 1999
related to these rate recovery mechanisms. Due to the rate adjustment
mechanisms, changes in the amount of fuel and purchased power expense have no
impact on earnings. Offsetting these increases was the absence in the current
period of fuel expense related to Pilgrim of $2.2 million in 1999.
Operations and maintenance expense was $98.3 million in 2000 compared to $71.3
million in 1999, an increase of $27 million or 38%. This increase reflects $32.6
million from the COM/Energy subsidiaries related to normal operations. This
increase was partially offset by the absence of nuclear production expenses
as a result of the sale of Pilgrim in July 1999 that, for the six-months ended
June 1999, amounted to $11.3 million.
Depreciation and amortization expense was $59.7 million in 2000 compared to
$47.7 million in 1999, an increase of $12 million or 25%. The increase
reflects approximately $6.1 million resulting from the amortization of goodwill
and costs to achieve related to the merger and a $13.7 million increase from the
COM/Energy subsidiaries. These increases were partially offset by decreases
resulting from the Pilgrim divestiture.
Demand side management (DSM) and renewable energy programs expense was $17.6
million in 2000 compared to $13.4 million in 1999, an increase of $4.2 million
or 31% primarily due to $3.8 million from the COM/Energy subsidiaries. These
costs are collected from customers on a fully reconciling basis. Therefore, the
increase has no impact on earnings.
Property and other taxes were $20.9 million in 2000 compared to $19.4 million in
1999, an increase of $1.5 million or 8%. The increase is due to $7 million from
the COM/Energy subsidiaries partially offset by lower municipal property taxes
of $3.4 million resulting from the sale of Pilgrim.
Income taxes from operations were $23.6 million in 2000 compared to $24.2
million in 1999, a decrease of $0.6 million or 2% reflecting higher pre-tax
operating income in 2000 resulting from the addition of the COM/Energy
subsidiaries and an increase in the effective tax rate. Refer to Footnote E
"Income Taxes" enclosed herewith for further details.
17
Other income (expense), net
Other income, net was $4.4 million in 2000 compared to other expense of $0.9
million in 1999, a net increase in income of $5.3 million due to interest income
received in 2000 of approximately $4.5 million from a third party related to the
Pilgrim contract buyout.
Interest charges
Interest on long-term debt and transition property securitization certificates
was $34 million in 2000 compared to $19.4 million in 1999, an increase of $14.6
million or 75%. The increase reflects $11.5 million of interest related to
transition property securitization certificates, $9 million of interest related
to NSTAR's $300 million 8% bonds issued in February 2000 and $2.9 million of
interest from the COM/Energy subsidiaries. These increases were partially
offset by approximately $8.7 million of debt retirements related to $65 million
of 6.8% debentures and $34 million of 9.875% debentures during the first half of
2000.
Interest on other debt increased $1.5 million and reflects the addition of the
COM/Energy subsidiaries.
Results of Operations - Six Months Ended June 30, 2000 vs. Six Months
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
Ended June 30, 1999
- -------------------
Due to the application of purchase method accounting, the results for 2000
reflect the combined performance of BEC Energy and COM/Energy, as NSTAR. Results
for the corresponding period in 1999 only reflect BEC Energy.
As further described below, earnings per common share were as follows:
Earnings per Common Share Six Months Ended June 30,
2000 1999 % Change
----- ----- ------------------
Basic $1.19 $1.14 4.4%
Diluted $1.18 $1.14 3.5%
The results of operations for the first six months of 2000 are not indicative of
the results that may be expected for the entire year due to the seasonality of
electric and gas sales and revenues. Refer to Note B to the Unaudited Condensed
Consolidated Financial Statements.
Operating revenues
Operating revenues increased 72% during the first half of 2000 as follows:
(in thousands)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
Retail electric revenues $300,349
Wholesale electric revenues (25,151)
Other revenues 79,345
Gas revenues 189,753
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
Increase in operating revenues $544,296
=========
Retail electric revenues were $952.6 million in 2000 compared to $652.2 million
in 1999, an increase of approximately $300 million or 46%. The change in retail
revenues reflects an increase of $249.8 million representing the
18
addition of revenues from the former COM/Energy retail electric subsidiaries and
the impact of a 5.7% increase in retail kilowatt-hour (kWh) sales. The increase
in retail kWh sales is the result of a strong local economy and colder winter
weather followed by higher than normal early summer temperatures than was
experienced in 1999. In addition, NSTAR's retail subsidiaries increased their
standard offer rates in January 2000. The revenues charged for standard offer
service are fully reconciled to the costs incurred and have no impact on net
income.
Wholesale electric revenues were $48.8 million in 2000 compared to $74 million
in 1999, a decrease of $25.2 million or 34%. This decrease in wholesale
revenues primarily reflects a decrease in contract sales due to the sale of
Pilgrim in July 1999.
Other revenues were $104.3 million in 2000 compared to $24.9 million in 1999, an
increase of $79.4 million. This increase primarily reflects an additional $57
million for the non-utility operations of COM/Energy.
Gas revenues were $189.8 million in 2000 representing revenues from COM/Gas.
Retail Electric Sales and Revenues
Retail kWh sales increased 42.1% in 2000. This increase includes an increase of
36.4% representing the former COM/Energy subsidiaries. Without the impact of
the merger, kWh sales for the first half of 2000 would have increased 4.8% from
1999. This increase in retail kWh sales is primarily due to weather conditions
that favored electric sales as well as a robust housing market and continued
improvement in regional economic conditions. The commercial sector represents
approximately 50% of electric operating revenues. This sector has also been
positively impacted by improved economic conditions.
Gas Sales and Revenue
ComGas generates revenues primarily through the sale and transportation of
natural gas. Gas sales are divided into two categories; firm, whereby ComGas
must supply gas or gas transportation services to customers on demand; and
interruptible, whereby ComGas may, generally during colder months, temporarily
discontinue service to high volume commercial and industrial customers. Sales of
gas to interruptible customers do not materially affect ComGas' operating income
because substantially all margin on such sales is returned to its firm
customers.
ComGas' tariffs include a seasonal Cost of Gas Adjustment Clause (CGAC) and a
Local Distribution Adjustment Clause (LDAC) that provide for the recovery, from
firm customers or default service customers, of certain costs previously
recovered through base rates. The CGAC provides for rates that must be approved
semi-annually by the MDTE. The LDAC provides for rates that require annual
approval.
Gas sales increased primarily due to customer growth and the colder than normal
temperatures in the Worcester area during the latter part of January, offset
slightly by warmer than normal weather over the six-month period. From January
17, 2000 through the end of the month there was a 22% increase in the number of
heating degrees days which positively impacted sales. On January
19
17, 2000 firm sales had a record increase of 13.2% over the last record set on
January 19, 1994. On a year-to-date basis, heating degree were 4.3% less than
normal and 2.4% more than 1999. The number of ComGas customers has increased
1.6% over 1999. The increase in gas sales also reflects the impact of higher oil
prices as customers switched to lower cost heating sources.
Operating expenses
Fuel, purchased power and cost of gas sold was $674 million in 2000 compared to
$297.7 million in 1999, an increase of $376.3 million or 126%. The increase
reflects $277.5 million of expense from the COM/Energy subsidiaries. Purchased
power expense increased $103.7 million reflecting the increase in purchased
power due to the sale of Pilgrim in 1999. NSTAR adjusts its electric rates to
collect the costs related to fuel and purchased power from customers on a fully
reconciling basis. Fuel and purchased power expenses reflect an increase of $34
million in 2000 and $23.7 million in 1999 related to these rate recovery
mechanisms. Due to the rate adjustment mechanisms, changes in the amount of fuel
and purchased power expense have no impact on earnings. Offsetting these
increases was the absence in the current period of fuel expense related to
Pilgrim that was $8.7 million in 1999.
Operations and maintenance expense was $215.6 million in 2000 compared to $150.9
million in 1999, an increase of $64.7 million or 43%. This increase reflects
$95.7 million from the COM/Energy subsidiaries related to normal operations and
$3.9 million for bad debts. These increases were partially offset by the
absence of $34.3 million for nuclear production expenses as a result of the sale
of Pilgrim.
Depreciation and amortization expense was $118 million in 2000 compared to $95.2
million in 1999, an increase of $22.8 million or 24%. The increase reflects
approximately $11.5 million resulting from the amortization of goodwill and
costs to achieve related to the merger and a $27.3 million increase from the
COM/Energy subsidiaries. These increases were partially offset by decreases
resulting from the Pilgrim divestiture.
Demand side management (DSM) and renewable energy programs expense was $35.7
million in 2000 compared to $26.7 million in 1999, an increase of $9 million or
34% primarily due to $8.3 million from the COM/Energy subsidiaries. These costs
are collected from customers on a fully reconciling basis. Therefore, the
increase has no impact on earnings.
Property and other taxes were $46.7 million in 2000 compared to $39.9 million in
1999, an increase of $6.8 million or 17%. The increase is due to $16.1 million
from the COM/Energy subsidiaries partially offset by lower municipal property
taxes of $6.4 million resulting from the Pilgrim divestiture.
Income taxes from operations were $49.1 million in 2000 compared to $38.3
million in 1999, an increase of $10.8 million or 28% reflecting higher pre-tax
operating income in 2000.
Other income (expense), net
Other income, net was $7.9 million in 2000 compared to other expense of $3.4
million in 1999, a net increase in income of $11.3 million due to interest
20
income received in 2000 of approximately $4.5 million from a third party related
to the Pilgrim contract buyout.
Interest charges
Interest on long-term debt and transition property securitization certificates
was $67.5 million in 2000 compared to $38.9 million in 1999, an increase of
$28.6 million or 74%. The increase reflects $23.4 million of interest related
to transition property securitization certificates and $15.8 million of interest
from the COM/Energy subsidiaries. These increases were partially offset by
approximately $10.4 million in reductions related to the following retirements:
$19 million of 7.8% debentures, $66 million of 9.875% debentures, $91 million of
9.375% debentures during the third quarter of 1999, $65 million of 6.8%
debentures and $34 million of 9.875% debentures during the first half of 2000.
Interest on other debt increased $11.9 million and reflected the addition of the
COM/Energy subsidiaries.
RCN Joint Venture and Investment Conversion
- -------------------------------------------
NSTAR Communications, Inc. (NSTAR COM), a subsidiary of NSTAR, is a participant
in a telecommunications venture with RCN Telecom Services, Inc. of Massachusetts
(RCN), a subsidiary of RCN Corporation. NSTAR accounts for its investment in the
joint venture using the equity method of accounting. As part of the joint
venture agreement, NSTAR has the option to exchange portions of its joint
venture interest for shares of RCN common stock at specified periods. During
1998, NSTAR exercised its option to convert a portion of its interest. In the
first quarter of 1999, NSTAR received 1.1 million shares of RCN common stock in
exchange for a portion of its joint venture interest that had a net book value
of $7.8 million. In May 1999, BETG notified RCN of its intention to exercise its
option to convert an additional portion of its joint venture interest that had a
net book value of $72.3 million at that time. In March 2000, NSTAR received
approximately 3 million shares of RCN common stock associated with this second
exchange. In connection with these two exchanges, as of the date of each
respective conversion, NSTAR COM recorded a deferred gain for the difference
between the net book value of its equity investment in the joint venture and the
fair value of the shares received. In accordance with Generally Accepted
Accounting Principals ("GAAP"), this gain must be deferred until one of a number
of items occur such as, the joint venture becoming cash flow positive,
generating net income, or the elimination of NSTAR COM's investment interest in
the joint venture. As a result, the total deferred gain to be recognized in
future periods as of June 30, 2000 is approximately $64 million and is reflected
on the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as a component of
other deferred credits.
The RCN shares received are included in Other investments on the June 30, 2000
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets at their fair value of approximately $104
million. This fair value may increase or decrease, at any time, as a result of
changes in the market price of RCN common stock. The unrealized gain or loss
due to the changes in fair value on these shares during each period is
reflected, net of associated income taxes, as comprehensive (loss) income on the
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the three and six
months ended June 30, 2000 and 1999. The cumulative increase or decrease in
fair value of these shares as of June 30, 2000 and December 31, 1999 is
reflected as accumulated other comprehensive income, net on the Condensed
Consolidated Balance Sheets.
In addition, on April 6, 2000, NSTAR issued its third notice to exchange
substantially all of its remaining interest with a net book value as of June 30,
2000 of approximately $129 million in the joint venture into common stock of
21
RCN. The ultimate number of RCN shares to be received associated with this
third notice is expected to be determined in the latter part of 2000.
Liquidity
NSTAR companies supplement internally generated funds as needed, primarily
through the issuance of short-term commercial paper and bank borrowings.
In February 2000, NSTAR issued $300 million of long-term debt that was used to
reduce short-term borrowings. NSTAR has a $450 million revolving credit
agreement with a group of banks effective through November 2002. As of June 30,
2000, there was no amount outstanding under this credit agreement. The purpose
of this agreement is to provide financing for general corporate purposes, to
fund the common share repurchase program and for other corporate purposes.
Boston Edison has authority from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC)
to issue up to $350 million of short-term debt. Boston Edison has a $200
million revolving credit agreement with a group of banks effective through
December 2000, that serve as backup to Boston Edison's $200 million commercial
paper program.
In addition, the former subsidiaries of COM/Energy have $130 million available
under several lines of credit. Approximately $82 million was outstanding under
these lines of credit as of June 30, 2000.
In July 2000, Boston Edison filed with the MDTE a Financing Application
requesting authorization to issue from time to time up to $500 million of debt
securities. Proceeds from such issuances covered under this application, will
be used for repayment or refinancing of certain outstanding equity securities,
long-term indebtedness, and for other corporate purposes.
In April 1998, Boston Edison announced a common share repurchase program under
which it would repurchase up to four million of its common shares. NSTAR
assumed this program effective as of the merger date. In October 1999, this
program was completed by NSTAR. Four million shares were repurchased at a total
cost of approximately $157 million. NSTAR subsequently announced a new $300
million common share repurchase program and, as of June 30, 2000, nearly 5.7
million shares have been repurchased at a cost of $235.8 million. Under the
program, shares are repurchased through open market, block or privately-
negotiated transactions, or a combination. The timing and actual number of
shares repurchased will be impacted by market conditions.
In July 1999, BEC Funding LLC, a wholly owned special-purpose subsidiary (SPS)
of Boston Edison, closed the sale of $725 million of notes to a special purpose
trust created by two Massachusetts state agencies. The trust then concurrently
closed the sale of $725 million of electric rate reduction certificates to the
public. The certificates held by BEC Funding are secured by a portion of the
transition charge assessed to Boston Edison's retail customers as permitted
under the Massachusetts Electric Restructuring Act and authorized by the MDTE.
The certificates were issued in five separate classes with variable payment
periods ranging from approximately one to ten years and bearing fixed interest
rates ranging from 5.99% to 7.03%. The certificates are non-recourse to Boston
Edison. Net proceeds ($719 million received by Boston Edison from BEC Funding)
were utilized to finance a portion of the stranded costs that are being
collected from customers under Boston Edison's restructuring settlement
agreement. Boston Edison will collect a portion of
22
the transition charge on behalf of BEC Funding and remit the proceeds to the
SPS. Boston Edison used a portion of the proceeds received from the financing to
fund a portion of the nuclear decommissioning fund transferred to Entergy
Nuclear Generating Company as part of the sale of the Pilgrim generating
station. Boston Edison used the remaining proceeds to reduce its capitalization
and for general corporate purposes.
NSTAR's goal is to maintain a capital structure that preserves an appropriate
balance between debt and equity. Management believes its liquidity and capital
resources are sufficient to meet its current and projected requirements.
New Accounting Principles
In June 1998, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Statement
of Financial Accounting Standards No. 133, "Accounting for Derivative
Instruments and Hedging Activities" (SFAS 133). SFAS 133 establishes accounting
and reporting standards requiring that every derivative instrument (including
certain derivative instruments embedded in other contracts possibly including
fixed-price fuel supply and power contracts) be recorded on the Consolidated
Balance Sheets as either an asset or liability measured at its fair value. SFAS
133, as amended by SFAS 137, "Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging
Activities-Deferral of the Effective Date of FASB Statement No 133", is
effective for fiscal years beginning after June 15, 2000 (January 1, 2001 for
calendar year companies). Initial application shall be as of the beginning of an
entity's fiscal quarter.
NSTAR will adopt SFAS 133 as of January 1, 2001. The impact of adoption cannot
be currently estimated and will be dependent upon the value, nature and purpose
of the derivative instruments held, if any, as of January 1, 2001.
Safe harbor cautionary statement
NSTAR occasionally makes forward-looking statements such as forecasts and
projections of expected future performance or statements of its plans and
objectives. These forward-looking statements may be contained in filings with
the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), press releases and oral
statements. Actual results could potentially differ materially from these
statements. Therefore, no assurances can be given that the outcomes stated in
such forward-looking statements and estimates will be achieved.
The preceding sections include certain forward-looking statements about
operating results, environmental and legal issues.
The impacts of continued cost control procedures on operating results could
differ from current expectations. The effects of changes in economic conditions,
tax rates, interest rates, technology and the prices and availability of
operating supplies could materially affect the projected operating results.
The timing and total costs related to the year 2000 plan could differ from
current expectations. Factors that may cause such differences include the
ability to locate and correct all relevant computer codes and the availability
of personnel trained in this area. In addition, NSTAR cannot predict the nature
or impact on operations of third party noncompliance.
The impacts of various environmental, legal issues, and regulatory matters could
differ from current expectations. New regulations or changes to existing
regulations could impose additional operating requirements or liabilities other
than expected. The effects of changes in specific hazardous waste site
conditions and cleanup technology could affect the estimated cleanup
23
liabilities. The impacts of changes in available information and circumstances
regarding legal issues could affect the estimated litigation costs.
Part II - Other Information
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
- -------------------------------------------------------------------
There have been no material changes since year-end.
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders
- ------------------------------------------------------------
The Annual Meeting of shareholders of NSTAR was held on April 27, 2000. The
holders of NSTAR's Common Shares were entitled to elect five Class I trustees to
serve until the Annual Meeting to be held in the year 2003 and until the
election and qualification of their respective successors. Proxies for
49,378,385 shares of the 56,997,061 entitled to vote were received.
The following table sets forth the names of the five persons elected at the
Annual Meeting to serve as trustees until 2003 and the number of votes cast for
or against with respect to each person.
Class I Trustee For Against
- -------------------------- --------------------------- -----------------------
Kevin C. Bryant 48,630,155 748,230
Gary L. Countryman 48,653,412 724,973
Thomas G. Dignan, Jr. 48,658,414 719,971
Franklin M. Hundley 48,656,266 722,119
Gerald L. Wilson 48,692,214 686,171
Item 5. Other Information
- --------------------------
The following additional information is furnished in connection with the
Registration Statement on Form S-3 of the Registrant (File No. 33-57840), filed
with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 3, 1993.
Ratio of earnings to fixed charges and ratio of earnings to fixed charges and
preferred stock dividend requirements.
Twelve months ended June 30, 2000:
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of earnings to fixed charges 2.17
Ratio of earnings to fixed charges and preferred
stock dividend requirements 2.08
24
Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K
- -----------------------------------------
a) Exhibits filed herewith and incorporated by reference:
Exhibit 4 - Instruments Defining the Rights of Security Holders,
Including Indentures
Management agrees to furnish to the Securities and
Exchange Commission, upon request, a copy of any
agreements or instruments defining the rights of
holders of any long-term debt whose authorization
does not exceed 10% of total assets.
Exhibit 12 - Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges
12.1 - Computation of ratio of earnings to fixed charges
for the twelve months ended June 30, 2000.
12.2 - Computation of ratio of earnings to fixed charges
and preferred stock dividend requirements for the
twelve months ended June 30, 2000.
Exhibit 15 - Letter Re Unaudited Interim Financial Information
15.1 - Letter of Independent Accountants
Form S-4 Registration Statement filed by NSTAR on
May 12, 1999 (File No. 333-78285); Post-effective
Amendment to Form S-4 on Form S-3 filed by NSTAR on
August 19, 1999 (File No. 333-78285); Post-effective
Amendment to Form S-4 on Form S-8 filed by NSTAR on
August 19, 1999 (File No. 333-78285); Form S-8
Registration Statement filed by NSTAR on August 19,
1999 (File No. 333-85559); and Form S-3 Registration
Statement filed by NSTAR on January 12, 2000 (File
No. 333-94735).
Exhibit 27 - Financial Data Schedule
27.1 - Schedule UT
Exhibit 99 - Additional Exhibits
99.1 - Report of Independent Accountants
b) No Form 8-K was filed during the second quarter of 2000.
25
Signature
---------
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the
registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
NSTAR
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(Registrant)
Date: August 14, 2000 /s/ R. J. Weafer Jr.
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Robert J. Weafer Jr.
Vice President, Controller
and Chief Accounting Officer
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