================================================================================
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
-----------------
FORM 20-F
Annual Report Pursuant to Section 13 or
15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
For the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2004
Commission File Number 333 - 7172 - 01
-----------------
CEZ, a. s.
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)
Czech Republic
(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
CEZ, a. s.
Duhova 2/1444
140 53 Prague 4
Czech Republic
(Address of principal executive offices)
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b)
of the Act: None.
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of
the Act:
7 1/8% Guaranteed Notes due 2007
Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d)
of the Act: None.
The number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer's classes of capital
or common stock as of December 31, 2004 was: 592,210,843 shares of common stock
-------------
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 by check mark which financial statement item the registrant has
elected to follow.
Item 17 [ ] Item 18 [x]
================================================================================
TECHNICAL TERMS AND PRESENTATION OF OTHER DATA
The technical abbreviations and expressions used herein have the following
meanings:
CO Carbon monoxide.
Demand Consumption of the final consumer not including transmission
and distribution losses and self consumption by the Company
(including electricity used in pump storage facilities) and
other electricity generators and distributors.
FBB Fluidized-bed boiler, a kind of boiler which reduces the
content of sulfur dioxide emissions in the flue gases during
the combustion process.
FGD Flue-Gas Desulphurization, a flue stack technology for
reducing sulfur dioxide content in power plant emissions.
GW; GWh One gigawatt equals 1,000 MW; one gigawatt-hour represents
one hour of electricity consumption at a constant rate of 1
GW.
Installed Capacity The highest constant level of generation of electricity
which a power plant is designed to be capable of
maintaining.
IPP Independent Power Producer.
kV A kilovolt is a unit of electric tension; one kilovolt
equals one thousand volts.
kW; kWh A kilowatt is a unit of power, representing the rate at
which energy is produced; one kilowatt-hour represents one
hour of electricity consumption at a constant rate of 1kW.
MW; MWh One megawatt equals 1,000 kW; one megawatt-hour represents
one hour of electricity consumption at a constant rate of 1
MW.
NOx Nitrogen oxides.
PWR A type of pressurized water nuclear reactor designed in the
United States. This type of reactor uses water as both a
moderator (the medium in the reactor core which facilitates
the chain reaction) and coolant (the medium which conveys
the heat generated in the reactor to a steam generator).
SO2 Sulfur dioxide.
T/h Tons of steam per hour.
TW; TWh One terawatt equals 1,000 GW; one terawatt-hour represents
one hour of electricity consumption at a constant rate of 1
TW.
Ton Metric ton.
VVER A type of pressurized water nuclear reactor designed in the
former Soviet Union which uses water as both a moderator and
coolant.
Unless otherwise indicated, all figures in this Annual Report presenting units
of electricity generation are gross (i.e., including the electricity consumed by
the power plants themselves).
We have provided the data contained in this Annual Report as to installed
capacity, generation and other market share information with respect to the
electricity and heating industries in the Czech Republic. We compile and publish
certain of this data on a regular basis, and also supply certain of this data to
the Czech Statistical Office for use in compiling national data on the energy
sector.
We have based the data contained in this Annual Report as to end-users of
electricity (including end-user average prices and electricity demand) on data
supplied to us by the regional distribution utilities (the "REAS") on a
voluntary basis. We have no means of independent verification of such data.
2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Part I
Item 1. Identity of Directors, Senior Management and Advisers........... 6
Item 2. Offer Statistics and Expected Timetable......................... 6
Item 3. Key Information................................................. 6
Item 4. Information on the Company...................................... 14
Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects.................... 41
Item 6. Directors, Senior Management and Employees...................... 53
Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions............... 58
Item 8. Financial Information........................................... 59
Item 9. The Offer and Listing........................................... 60
Item 10. Additional Information.......................................... 60
Item 11. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk...... 69
Item 12. Description of Securities Other Than Equity Securities.......... 73
Part II
Item 13. Defaults, Dividend Arrearages and Deliquencies.................. 73
Item 14. Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders and
Use of Proceeds................................................. 73
Item 15. Controls and Procedures......................................... 73
Item 16A. Audit Committee Financial Expert................................ 74
Item 16B. Code of Ethics.................................................. 74
Item 16C. Principal Accountant Fees and Services.......................... 74
Item 16D. Exemptions from the Listing Standards for Audit Committees...... 75
Part III
Item 17. Financial Statements............................................ 75
Item 18. Financial Statements............................................ 75
Item 19. Exhibits........................................................ 75
3
GENERAL INFORMATION
Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements contained in this Annual Report are "forward-looking
statements" within the meaning of U.S. federal securities laws. We intend that
these statements be covered by the safe harbors created under these laws. Those
statements include, but are not limited to:
o statements as to expected revenues, operating results, market shares
and certain expenses, including interest expenses, in respect of
certain of our operations;
o expectations as to the operation of Temelin and its power output;
o expectations as to the anticipated privatization of our Company;
o statements as to actions of our majority shareholder;
o expectations as to energy prices and the deregulation of the energy
market in the Czech Republic;
o statements as to the rate of growth of the electricity market in the
Czech Republic;
o expectations as to our relations with the regional electricity
distributors;
o expectations as to our integration with the regional electricity
distributors and with our newly-acquired companies;
o expectations as to our compliance with the "unbundling" requirement
under the Energy Act;
o expectations as to implementation of our VIZE 2008 strategy;
o statements about the rent we anticipate paying for certain of our
hydroelectric power plants;
o expectations as to the issuance of operations licenses, the schedule
and cost for the refurbishment of Dukovany;
o statements about the transfer of land to our Company;
o expectations as to the approval and construction of interim fuel
storage facilities;
o expectations as to the expansion of our distribution grid;
o expectations as to the closing of our purchase of distribution
companies in Romania;
o expectations as to our future acquisitions, participations in tender
processes for such acquisitions and results of such tender processes;
o expectations as to the development of our telecommunications services;
o expectations of our future capital expenditures;
o statements as to the funding of future expenditures and investments;
o expectations of risks and liabilities of hedging transactions entered
into;
o statements as to the expected outcome of certain legal proceedings;
o estimates of future levels of employees; and
o expectations as to the legal and regulatory framework for our
industry.
These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and other
factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from future results
expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Important factors that
could cause actual results to differ materially from the information set forth
in any forward-looking statements include:
o the effect of general economic conditions and changes in interest
rates in the Czech Republic;
o difficulties encountered in the privatization of our Company;
o difficulties encountered in the integration of our Company with some
of the regional electricity distributors;
o difficulties in controlling our distribution business due to the
"unbundling" requirement of the Energy Act and/or other new legal
requirements of the Czech Republic or European Union;
o obstacles encountered in the process of implementation of our VIZE
2008 strategy;
o difficulties encountered in the integration of our Company with
businesses newly acquired by our Company in the future;
o increases in competition in the markets in which we operate and
changes in sales and marketing methods utilized by competitors;
o changes in the structure and regulation of electricity prices in the
Czech Republic;
o difficulties encountered in the operation of our Temelin nuclear power
plant and refurbishment of our Dukovany nuclear power plant;
o the potential loss of key personnel;
o acts of war or terrorism; and
4
o fluctuations in exchange rates between other currencies and the Czech
crown in which our assets, liabilities and operating results are
denominated;
as well as the other factors discussed elsewhere in this Annual Report. Many of
these factors are beyond our ability to control or predict. Given these
uncertainties, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the
forward-looking statements.
Unless the context otherwise indicates, the terms "CEZ group", "our group",
"we", "us", and "our" refer to CEZ, a. s. and our subsidiaries and affiliates.
Unless the context otherwise indicates, the terms "CEZ" and "Company" refer
solely to CEZ, a. s. without reference to our subsidiaries and affiliates. The
term "EU" refers to the European Union. The term "REAS" refers regional
electricity distribution companies in the Czech Republic. The term "Energy Act"
refers Czech Act No. 458/2000 Coll., Energy Act, as amended.
5
PART I
ITEM 1. IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND ADVISERS
Not applicable.
ITEM 2. OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE
Not applicable.
ITEM 3. KEY INFORMATION
SELECTED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA
The following selected consolidated financial data should, where applicable, be
read in conjunction with, and are qualified in their entirety by reference to,
our Consolidated Financial Statements (including the notes thereto) contained in
Item 18 "Financial Statements" of this Annual Report. We prepare the
Consolidated Financial Statements in accordance with International Financial
Reporting Standards ("IFRS") which differ in certain important respects from
U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles ("U.S. GAAP"). Note 30 to the
Consolidated Financial Statements provides a description of the principal
differences between IFRS and U.S. GAAP and a reconciliation to U.S. GAAP of net
earnings and total shareholders' equity for the periods and as of the dates
therein indicated.
As of or for the year ended December 31,
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2004
---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ----
(CZK millions except rates, ratios, (USD
operating and per share data)(1) millions,
except per
share
data)(2)
Consolidated Income Statement Data(3)
IFRS:
Revenues.............................................. 52,431 56,055 55,578 84,816 100,165 4,478.6
Operating expenses.................................... 39,570 41,304 44,355 71,812 81,010 3,622.2
Income before other expense and income taxes.......... 12,861 14,751 11,223 13,004 19,155 856.5
Other expenses (income)............................... 2,260 1,459 (573) 2,267 1,227 54.9
Income before income taxes............................ 10,601 13,292 11,796 10,737 17,928 801.6
Income taxes.......................................... 3,364 4,169 3,375 1,349 3,845 171.9
Minority interests.................................... - - - 519 1,024 45.8
Net income............................................ 7,237 9,123 8,421 8,869 13,059 583.9
Net income per share (CZK per share)
Basic.............................................. 12.2 15.4 14.3 15.0 22.1 0.99
Diluted............................................ 12.2 15.4 14.2 15.0 22.1 0.99
Cash dividend per share (CZK per share)............... 0.0 2.0 2.5 4.5 8.0
Cash dividend per share (USD per share) (4)........... 0.0 0.052 0.080 0.156 0.304
Weighted average number of shares (000's)
Basic.............................................. 592,088 591,926 590,363 590,772 592,075
Diluted............................................ 592,088 592,088 592,150 592,211 592,211
U.S. GAAP:
Revenues.............................................. (5) (5) 96,410 96,105 100,165 4,478.6
Net income............................................ (5) (5) 10,021 9,488 12,905 577.0
Other comprehensive income............................ (5) (5) 144 (268) 4 0.2
Total comprehensive income............................ (5) (5) 10,165 9,220 12,909 577.2
Net income per share (CZK per share)
Basic.............................................. (5) (5) 17.0 16.1 21.8 0.97
Diluted............................................ (5) (5) 16.9 16.0 21.8 0.97
6
As of or for the year ended December 31,
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2004
---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ----
(CZK millions except rates, ratios, (USD
operating and per share data)(1) millions,
except per
share
data)(2)
Consolidated Balance Sheet Data(3)
IFRS:
Property, plants and equipment--net(6)................. 98,717 93,605 146,914 226,392 216,809 9,694.1
Construction work in progress......................... 103,591 111,929 56,513 10,204 10,626 475.1
Other assets.......................................... 19,952 23,493 28,038 41,627 53,380 2,386.8
Total assets.......................................... 222,260 229,027 231,465 278,223 280,815 12,556.0
Shareholders' equity.................................. 129,442 136,726 143,675 152,624 163,689 7,319.0
Minority interests.................................... - - - 7,893 5,282 236.2
Long-term debt, net of current portion................ 49,059 42,899 35,729 30,965 38,190 1,707.6
Other long-term liabilities (7)....................... 21,547 21,578 23,866 33,370 34,633 1,548.5
Total long-term liabilities (7)....................... 70,606 64,477 59,595 64,335 72,823 3,256.1
Deferred tax liability................................ 8,057 9,870 12,541 15,863 16,008 715.8
Current liabilities................................... 14,155 17,954 15,654 37,508 23,013 1,029.0
Stated capital........................................ 59,209 59,050 59,041 59,152 59,218 2,647.8
U.S. GAAP:
Total assets.......................................... (5) (5) 289,491 279,617 280,985 12,563.6
Long-term liabilities (7)............................. (5) (5) 62,480 64,475 72,823 3,256.1
Deferred tax liability................................ (5) (5) 16,101 15,942 16,454 735.7
Shareholders' equity.................................. (5) (5) 162,122 153,530 164,025 7,334.0
Minority interests.................................... (5) (5) 17,438 8,542 5,576 249.3
Other Financial Data
IFRS:
Depreciation rate..................................... 5.4 5.3 5.6 5.7 4.8
Ratio of earnings to fixed charges.................... 2.35 3.13 3.42 3.40 5.33
Capital expenditures.................................. 21,346 15,706 10,419 52,316 33,949 1,518.0
Ratio of shareholders' equity to total
capitalization(8).................................. 0.72 0.76 0.80 0.81 0.79
U.S. GAAP:
Ratio of earnings to fixed charges.................... (5) (5) 4.52 3.75 5.25
Ratio of shareholders' equity to total
capitalization(8).................................. (5) (5) 0.88 0.81 0.79
Selected Operating Data
Installed capacity (MW)............................... 10,146 10,146 11,146 12,297 12,297
Generation (GWh)...................................... 50,842 52,162 54,118 61,399 62,126
Employees............................................. 9,278 8,011 7,677 18,100 17,855
(1) Certain prior year financial statement items have been reclassified to
conform to the current year presentation.
(2) Czech crown amounts have been translated into U.S. dollars at the rate of
CZK 22.365 per USD 1.00, the CNB Exchange Rate on December 31, 2004.
(3) For 2002 and 2003 comparative information has been restated (see Note
2.4(a) to the Consolidated Financial Statements).
(4) Translated into USD at the Czech National Bank rate on the dividend payment
date.
(5) As discussed in Note 30 to our Consolidated Financial Statements, during
2004 we restated previously reported U.S. GAAP financial information to
reflect the retroactive application of accounting similar to a "pooling of
interest" for certain common control business combinations which we entered
into during both January 2004 and April 2003. We did not restate, and
therefore we do not provide, U.S. GAAP reconciled financial information for
2001 and 2000 designated by this footnote, because such U.S. GAAP
reconciled financial information is not required to be provided in Note 30
to our Consolidated Financial Statements and we believe that we would not
be able to obtain the relevant information without unreasonable effort and
expense.
(6) Plant in service less accumulated provision for depreciation and nuclear
fuel at amortized cost.
(7) Amounts also include accumulated provision for nuclear decommissioning and
storage of spent fuel and other nuclear waste.
(8) Total capitalization includes stated capital, retained earnings and
long-term debt (net of current portion).
7
Exchange Rates
The following table sets forth, for the periods and dates indicated high and low
exchange rates for Czech crowns ("CZK") into U.S. dollars ("USD") as reported by
the Czech National Bank (the "CNB Exchange Rate") for each month during the
previous six months and, for the last five years, the average rate for each year
calculated as the average of the exchange rates on the last day of each month
during the period. No representation is made that the Czech crown or USD amounts
referred to herein could have been made or could be converted into USD or Czech
crowns, as the case may be, at the rates indicated or at any other rate. The
Federal Reserve Bank of New York does not report a noon buying rate for Czech
crowns. As of July 14, 2005, the CNB Exchange Rate was CZK 25.06 = USD 1.00.
CNB Exchange Rates
------------------
Month Low(1) High(1)
----- --- ----
(CZK per USD)
December 2004 23.40 22.34
January 2005 23.48 22.48
February 2005 23.47 22.45
March 2005 23.35 21.97
April 2005 23.65 23.02
May 2005 24.62 23.09
June 2005 24.91 24.41
Source: Czech National Bank
(1) Actual high and low, on a day-by-day basis, for each period.
CNB Exchange Rates
------------------
Year Low (1) High (1) Average (2) Period-End
----- ---- ---- ------- ----------
(CZK per USD)
2000 42.13 34.88 38.58 37.81
2001 40.29 34.84 38.03 36.26
2002 37.16 29.12 32.74 30.14
2003 30.35 25.65 28.23 25.65
2004 27.66 22.34 25.70 22.37
Source: Czech National Bank
(1) Actual high and low, on a day-by-day basis, for each period.
(2) Average of the exchange rates on the last day of each month during period.
For information regarding the effects of currency fluctuations on our results,
see "Risk Factors" on page 9, "Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and
Prospects" on page 47 and "Item 11. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures
about Market Risk" on page 69.
8
RISK FACTORS
FACTORS RELATING TO THE COMPANY
OUR MAJORITY SHAREHOLDER MAKES DECISIONS THAT REFLECT CZECH GOVERNMENT POLICY
The Czech National Property Fund (the "NPF" or the "National Property Fund"),
which is under the direct control of the Czech Republic, holds approximately
two-thirds of all shares in CEZ. The National Property Fund also holds
significant equity interests in certain of our subcontractors, including Czech
suppliers of coal. As of the end of 2005, the National Property Fund will be
terminated and all its property, including all our shares owned by the NPF, will
pass to the Czech Republic and will be administered by the Czech Ministry of
Finance. Consequently, certain of our decisions and the decisions of our
suppliers and contractors that are mandated by the National Property Fund (or
will be mandated by the Ministry of Finance) reflect the Czech Republic
government policy. We can give no assurance that these decisions will not
adversely affect our business, prospects, financial condition or results of
operations.
OUR INTEGRATION WITH THE REAS, BULGARIAN DISTRIBUTION COMPANIES OR OTHER
ACQUISITIONS COULD ENCOUNTER OBSTACLES, NEGATIVELY INFLUENCING OUR BUSINESS
On April 1, 2003, we acquired from the Czech government majority shares in five
regional distribution companies in the Czech Republic (the "REAS"). On January
18, 2005, we acquired from the Bulgarian government majority shares in three
distribution companies in Western Bulgaria. We are in the process of fully
integrating the five REAS and the Bulgarian distribution companies into our
group. While we believe that we will be successful in our efforts, we can give
no assurance that the integration of the REAS and the Bulgarian distribution
companies will proceed smoothly and that minority shareholders in the REAS and
in the Bulgarian distribution companies will not obstruct the integration
process. Consequently, we can provide no assurance that our business, prospects,
financial condition or results of operations will not be adversely influenced by
these factors. Also, we may encounter similar difficulties in connection with
integration into our group of other companies which we may acquire in the
future.
SEPARATION OF ELECTRICITY DISTRIBUTION FROM ELECTRICITY GENERATION
("UNBUNDLING") REQUIRED BY CZECH LAW AS OF JANUARY 1, 2007 WILL LIMIT OUR
ABILITY TO EXERCISE FULLY OUR CONTROL OVER THE REAS
Under Czech law, by January 1, 2007 distribution of electricity must be
separated and independent from generation of electricity. The process of
separation is called "unbundling". To ensure the required independence,
management responsible for electricity distribution business must be different
from management responsible for electricity generation business, appropriate
measures must be taken to prevent professional conflicts of interest between
persons responsible for electricity distribution and generation businesses, and
control which can be exercised by shareholders over electricity distribution
companies is restricted. After we comply with these requirements, we could
encounter difficulties and obstacles in controlling our REAS, despite being a
majority shareholder in those REAS. Consequently, our business, prospects,
financial condition or results of operations may be adversely influenced by
these legal limitations on our control over the REAS.
LIBERALIZATION OF THE ELECTRICITY MARKET IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC COULD ADVERSELY
AFFECT OUR BUSINESS
We compete on the retail electricity market and the wholesale electricity
market. With respect to the retail market in the Czech Republic, only "eligible
final customers" may choose their electricity supplier and freely negotiate
prices. Since January 1, 2005, all final customers except for households have
been among the "eligible final customers". Households are scheduled to become
"eligible final customers" as of January 1, 2006, when the Czech retail
electricity market will become fully liberalized. We have direct access to all
eligible final customers and this liberalized market represents approximately
60% of the Czech retail electricity market. On the other hand, the remaining
40% of the Czech retail electricity market (mostly households) is served by
the REAS which are free to choose on the wholesale market the supplier to cover
demand of their customers. The wholesale market is fully liberalized. As a
consequence of this liberalization, the REAS and eligible final customers have
purchased some electricity from producers outside the Czech Republic, which in
fact has reduced our revenues. We have responded to these price and other
pressures by increasing the quantity of electricity sold for low prices while
keeping fixed costs constant. While we control five REAS in the Czech Republic,
we can provide no assurance that decisions of the remaining three independent
REAS or independent eligible final customers will not adversely affect our
business, prospects, financial condition or results of operations.
9
OUR FUTURE PROFITABILITY IS DEPENDENT UPON SEVERAL FACTORS, SOME OF WHICH ARE
OUTSIDE OUR CONTROL.
Costs structure and variable electricity prices. The operation of our power
stations, in particular our nuclear power stations, is characterized by high
fixed costs. Additionally, some of our costs are not borne by our non-nuclear
competitors because they are unique to the nuclear power generation industry.
Our ability to generate sufficient turnover at sufficient margin to cover our
fixed costs is dependent, in part, on favorable electricity prices and our sales
and trading strategy. Electricity prices depend on a number of market and other
factors. Because our costs are primarily fixed in nature, they cannot be reduced
in periods of low electricity prices. Therefore, in these circumstances it is
possible that we may not produce sufficient revenue from our electricity sales
and/or trading to cover our generation costs.
Unplanned outages. Unplanned outages of our power plants, in particular nuclear
reactors, result in lost generation and, due to our contractual obligations to
deliver electricity at pre-established prices and quantities, we may, therefore,
be required to purchase replacement electricity volume in the open market which
may be at unfavorable prices. Given the complexity of operating nuclear power
stations, we do not believe that we will be able to completely eliminate the
risk of unplanned outages and we cannot predict the timing or impact of these
outages with any certainty. Therefore, there is no assurance that we will be
profitable or generate sufficient cash to fund our operations or to meet our
financial obligations as they fall due.
INTERRUPTIONS IN OPERATION OF THE TEMELIN NUCLEAR POWER PLANT COULD
SIGNIFICANTLY LOWER OUR CASH FLOW
We have experienced continuing environmental and other opposition to our
operation of Temelin nuclear power plant with demonstrations by Austrian
citizens and others. As a result, the prime ministers of Austria and the Czech
Republic met in the past and agreed to further studies and monitoring performed
on Temelin. Also, several lawsuits were filed before Austrian courts and they
referred the issue as to whether Austrian courts have jurisdiction in such
lawsuits to the European Court of Justice. We can provide no assurance that, as
a result of such studies and monitoring or such lawsuits, the operation of
Temelin will not be disturbed as a result of events beyond the control of
management. We can provide no assurance that any such problems will not
adversely affect our business, prospects, financial condition or results of
operations.
OUR COMMERCIAL RELATIONSHIP WITH THE REAS AND THE COMPETITIVE ENVIRONMENT FOR
THE SUPPLY OF ELECTRICITY IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC COULD CHANGE
We sell a significant portion of the electricity we produce to the eight REAS.
Except for two REAS for which ten-year supply contracts have been signed in 1996
(but contracts specifying volumes and prices, among others, for these two
long-term contracts are signed annually), we sign our contracts with the other
REAS annually. We own majority shares in five REAS. We can provide no assurance
that the three REAS we do not control will continue to purchase power from us in
the same quantities as they have in the past and/or for the same or better
prices or that the competitive environment for the supply of electricity in the
Czech Republic will not change.
THERE ARE RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH INTERNATIONAL OPERATIONS.
In January 2005, we acquired three electricity distribution companies in Western
Bulgaria. We are in the process of bidding for acquisition of several other
electricity generation and distribution companies outside the Czech Republic,
including Bulgaria, Romania, Poland and Montenegro. We will continue to evaluate
opportunities abroad and may expand our investments in these countries or in new
markets. There are certain risks inherent in doing business on an international
level, such as unexpected changes in regulatory requirements, trade barriers
including import and export controls, tariffs, customs, duties, difficulties in
staffing and managing foreign operations, longer payment cycles, problems in
collecting accounts receivable, political instability, expropriation,
nationalization, war and other political risks, fluctuations in currency
exchange rates, foreign exchange controls which restrict or prohibit
repatriation of funds, technology export and import restrictions or prohibitions
and potentially adverse tax consequences, any of which could adversely impact
the success of our international operations.
BECAUSE WE LOST CONTROL OF THE TRANSMISSION GRID, ELECTRICITY TRANSMISSION
PRICES MAY INCREASE
Until April 1, 2003, we controlled the electricity transmission grid in the
Czech Republic through our wholly-owned subsidiary, CEPS, a.s. As a part of
process of the liberalization of the energy market and/or privatization in the
Czech Republic, we had to sell our majority stake in CEPS, a.s. and we thereby
lost control of the transmission grid. The prices for electricity transmission
could increase as a result of our lost control of CEPS, a.s. If these
10
transmission prices increase and such increase is followed by increases in end
prices for electricity, we can give no assurance that the possible resulting
decrease of consumption or our increased costs would not adversely affect our
business, prospects, financial condition or results of operations. Further, we
can give no assurance that the specific regulatory or other relationship that
actually develops with respect to the transmission of electricity will not
adversely affect our business, prospects, financial condition or results of
operations.
STATE SUPPORT TO SELECTED POWER GENERATION SOURCES COULD ADVERSELY AFFECT THE
PORTION OF OUR BUSINESS SUBJECT TO REGULATED PRICES
Czech law requires the REAS to purchase certain amounts of electricity from
environmentally friendly "co-generation," or "renewable" facilities and it
provides state subsidies to them. This approach leads to a significantly higher
state support for small generation sources or those that are connected directly
to the REAS grids. We, however, operate large plants and transmit a major
portion of our electricity to the transmission grid and thus cannot take full
advantage of the state support for otherwise comparable power generation
sources. While we believe that these purchases by the REAS will remain an
insignificant portion of overall REAS electricity purchases, we can provide no
assurance that this will in fact be the case and that our electricity sales to
independent REAS will not decrease as a result and will not adversely affect our
business, prospects, financial condition or results of operations.
THE COSTS WE ARE BEING CHARGED FOR RADIOACTIVE WASTE DISPOSAL MAY INCREASE
Under Czech law we are required to contribute funds to a "Nuclear Account"
administrated by the Ministry of Finance based on the amount of electricity we
produce in our nuclear power plants. This fund is used by the Radioactive Waste
Repository Authority (the "Repository Authority") to centrally organize,
supervise and undertake responsibility for all final disposal facilities and
deposition of nuclear waste therein.
We can give no assurance that the government will not increase the contributions
which the Nuclear Act requires us to pay into the Nuclear Account. Additionally,
if the cash amounts accrued in the Nuclear Account are not sufficient to pay the
final disposal costs, we may be required to pay additional amounts.
THE AMOUNTS WE HAVE TO KEEP IN A SPECIAL ESCROW ACCOUNT FOR FUTURE
DECOMMISSIONING OF OUR NUCLEAR POWER PLANTS MAY INCREASE; WE MAY BECOME LIABLE
FOR INCREASED COSTS OF FUTURE DECOMMISSIONING
Under Czech law we are required to keep funds in a special escrow account based
on the expected costs of future decommissioning of our nuclear power plants.
These funds can be used only for such decommissioning and only with the
permission of the Repository Authority. We can give no assurance that our
contributions to the special escrow account will not increase as a result of
increased expected costs of decommissioning or other factors determining the
amount of our annual contributions. Additionally, if the cash amounts accrued in
the special escrow account are not sufficient to pay the decommissioning costs,
we may be required to pay additional amounts.
OBSOLESCENCE OF SOME OF OUR EQUIPMENT AND COMPONENT PARTS THAT ARE REQUIRED TO
OPERATE OUR POWER STATIONS AND MONITOR PLANT STABILITY COULD RESULT IN HIGHER
OPERATING COSTS, UNPLANNED LOSSES OR THE CLOSURE OF OUR POWER STATIONS.
Some of our power plants became operational several decades ago. As a result, it
is becoming increasingly difficult to source replacement parts for some older
equipment and to find engineers qualified to service certain equipment. We may
not be able to maintain our older equipment on a cost effective basis or at all.
We believe the increasing obsolescence of some of our parts and systems may
result in an increase in unplanned losses, longer planned outages, significantly
higher repair costs and/or the closure of our stations.
THE CONDITION OF SOME OF THE PLANT, EQUIPMENT AND COMPONENTS AT OUR POWER
STATIONS IS SUBJECT TO GRADUAL DETERIORATION OVER TIME.
The impact on the condition of some of the plant, equipment and components at
our power stations of station operations and natural processes such as erosion
and corrosion tends to increase as such plant, equipment and components grow
older. While we attempt to implement inspection and maintenance practices such
that we repair or replace such plant, equipment and components before they fail
there is no guarantee that we will be successful and consequently we may
experience unplanned losses which will adversely impact on our profitability.
11
OUR INSURANCE DOES NOT FULLY COVER OUR RISKS AND FACILITIES
We have limited insurance (e.g., property and machinery insurance) for certain
of our significant assets, including the Dukovany and Temelin nuclear power
plant. We can give no assurance that our business will not be adversely affected
by the costs of accidents or other unexpected occurrences at such facilities.
WE COULD INCUR SIGNIFICANT LOSSES IF WE SUFFERED A NUCLEAR ACCIDENT
In accordance with the Vienna Convention, the Nuclear Act provides that the
operator of a nuclear facility is liable for any damage caused by a nuclear
accident up to CZK 6 billion per accident. The Nuclear Act also provides that
operators of nuclear facilities, such as ourselves, are obligated to acquire
insurance covering potential liabilities for nuclear damages in an amount of not
less than CZK 1.5 billion. We have concluded insurance policies for both
Dukovany and Temelin which provide coverage at these amounts. However,
notwithstanding such limitation of liability and our additional coverage, any
nuclear accident at a nuclear power station could have a material adverse effect
on our business, prospects, financial condition or results of operations due to,
amongst others, potential shut-down of the nuclear facility involved in the
accident and the resulting loss of generation capacity, remedial and replacement
expenses and negative public response. In addition, as the Nuclear Act has not
been tested in court, we can give no assurance that judicial interpretations
will be consistent with its stated limitation of liabilities.
FUTURE REGULATION COULD HAVE A SIGNIFICANT ADVERSE EFFECT ON OUR BUSINESS AND
ITS PROFITABILITY
As an owner and operator of nuclear and coal-fired power stations and owner of
electricity distribution businesses, we are subject to extensive governmental
regulations. We are subject to, among others, nuclear safety, electricity market
and environmental regulations of the Czech Republic, the EU and other
governmental authorities. Future regulation by the Czech government or the
European Union may require significant changes in our business or otherwise
affect our business in ways that we cannot predict. Any new regulations that
cause us to restructure or otherwise change our business may have a material
adverse effect on our business prospects, results of operations and financial
condition.
A FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH, OR THE INCURRENCE OF LIABILITIES UNDER, ENVIRONMENTAL,
HEALTH AND SAFETY LAWS AND REGULATIONS TO WHICH WE ARE SUBJECT, OR A FAILURE TO
OBTAIN OR MAINTAIN REQUIRED ENVIRONMENTAL, HEALTH AND SAFETY REGULATORY
APPROVALS, COULD ADVERSELY AFFECT OUR BUSINESS OR OUR ABILITY TO TRADE
PROFITABLY.
We are subject to various environmental and health and safety laws and
regulations governing, amongst other things: (i) the generation, storage,
handling, release, use, disposal and transportation of hazardous and radioactive
materials; (ii) the emission and discharge of hazardous materials into the
ground, air or water; and (iii) decommissioning and decontamination of our
facilities and the health and safety of the public and our employees. Regulators
in the Czech Republic administer these laws and regulations. We are also
required to obtain environmental and safety permits from various governmental
authorities for our operations. Certain permits require periodic renewal or
review of their conditions and we cannot predict whether we will be able to
renew such permits or whether material changes in permit conditions will be
imposed. Therefore, we may not have been, or may not at all times in the future
be, in complete compliance with such laws, regulations and permits. Violations
of these laws, regulations or permits could result in plant shutdowns, fines
and/or litigation being commenced against us or other sanctions. Other
liabilities under environmental laws, including clean-up of radioactive or
hazardous substances, can be costly to discharge. Environmental liabilities or
failure to comply with environmental laws could also lead to negative publicity
and significant damage to our reputation. Environmental and health and safety
laws are complex, change frequently and have tended to become more stringent
over time. Whilst we have budgeted for future capital and operating expenditures
to comply with current environmental and health and safety laws, it is possible
that any of these laws will change or become more stringent in the future.
Therefore, our costs of complying with current and future environmental and
health and safety laws, and our liabilities arising from past or future releases
of, or exposure to, radioactive or hazardous substances, could adversely affect
our business or our operating or financial performance.
DEVALUATION OF THE CZECH CROWN AGAINST THE U.S. DOLLAR AND/OR EURO WOULD
NEGATIVELY IMPACT OUR BUSINESS; WE MAY SUFFER EXCHANGE RATE LOSSES IF CZECH
CROWN BECOMES SIGNIFICANTLY WEAKER TO U.S. DOLLAR AND/OR EURO, OR LOSSES DUE TO
HEDGING IF CZECH CROWN BECOMES SIGNIFICANTLY STRONGER
Majority of our revenues are denominated in Czech crowns and, after giving
effect to foreign exchange swaps, approximately one-third of our indebtedness is
effectively denominated in, and is expected to continue to be
12
denominated in, currencies other than the Czech crown. Consequently, we are
exposed to currency exchange risks that could impact our ability to meet our
debt obligations and finance our business. The Czech crown to euro exchange rate
has been relatively stable and there has been a trend of a stronger Czech crown
versus the U.S. dollar in 2004 with stabilization in 2005. However, we can give
no assurance that these trends will continue. Devaluation of the Czech crown
against the U.S. dollar and/or euro would result in a larger proportion of our
revenues needed to service our indebtedness denominated in currencies other than
the Czech crown, including the 7 1/8% notes due 2007 issued by CEZ Finance B.V.
and guaranteed by our Company (the "Notes" and the guarantees provided by us the
"Guarantees") which could have a material adverse effect on our ability to
service the Notes or other indebtedness denominated in currencies other that the
Czech crown.
We have entered into foreign exchange swap transactions (principally U.S.
dollars and euro to Czech crowns) in order to reduce our exposure to the
exchange rate risk by adjusting our exposure to non-Czech crown denominated
liabilities. Although we intend to further reduce our exposure to exchange rate
risk by entering into other hedging transactions, we can give no assurance that
such hedging will be available or profitable.
FACTORS RELATING TO THE CZECH REPUBLIC
IF THE CZECH ECONOMY PERFORMS POORLY, OUR BUSINESS WILL BE IMPACTED NEGATIVELY
Our revenues are sensitive to the performance of the Czech economy. Most of our
assets and operations are located in the Czech Republic and we derive the
substantial majority of our electricity revenues from domestic sales. Changes in
economic, regulatory, administrative or other policies of the Czech government,
as well as political or economic developments in the Czech Republic over which
we have no control, could have a significant effect on the Czech economy, which
in turn could have a significant effect on our business, prospects, financial
conditions or results of operations or our ability to proceed with our business
plan.
The Czech Republic has experienced growing public finance deficits which could
potentially destabilize the Czech crown against foreign currencies, increase
inflation and increase the borrowing costs of the Czech Republic through lower
debt ratings, and for us as well. While political parties in the Czech Republic
acknowledge this problem, they have not reached political accord on a solution.
Though the Czech crown is currently strong and the inflation low, we can give no
assurance that this will be the case in the future years.
WE COULD INCUR UNFORESEEN TAX PENALTIES AND/OR SANCTIONS
Changing interpretations of tax regulations by the tax authorities, extended
time periods relating to overdue liabilities and the possible imposition of high
penalties and other sanctions result in the tax risk for a Czech company being
significantly higher than in countries with more mature tax systems.
13
ITEM 4. INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY
HISTORY AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE COMPANY
CEZ, a.s. (the "Company" or "CEZ") was established on May 6, 1992 as a
joint-stock company organized under the law of the Czech Republic. We were
established through the aggregation of formerly state-owned companies into one
enterprise. The resulting company is the largest electricity generation company
in the Czech Republic in terms of installed electricity generation capacity and
one of the largest companies in the Czech Republic in terms of operating
revenues. Following acquisition of majority stakes in five REAS in 2003 we also
operate the largest electricity distribution business in the Czech Republic in
terms of number of final customers we can access. We are governed by the
provisions of Czech Civil and Commercial law and are registered with the
Commercial Register of the District Court for Prague. Our headquarters is
located in Prague, Czech Republic. Our U.S. agent's name and address is CT
Corporation System, 1633 Broadway, New York, New York 10019.
Our registered address is:
CEZ, a. s.
Duhova 2/1444
140 53 Prague 4
Czech Republic
Tel: +420 (2) 7113 1111
Web site: www.cez.cz
As of December 31, 2004, group of our companies consisted of a total of 78
companies, of which 34 (ourselves, 26 subsidiaries and 7 affiliated companies),
are included in our consolidated group. The structure of our consolidated group
was determined based on significance of our individual subsidiaries and
affiliated companies.(1) The core business of our consolidated group is the
generation, distribution, and sale of electricity generated in our group's own
facilities, and related provision of power grid ancillary services. In addition
to electricity generation and distribution, businesses of individual companies
in our group also include generation and sale of heat, mining of raw materials,
telecommunications, scientific research, as well as engineering and activities
in the construction, maintenance, upgrading of power plants and distribution
system, and provision of information technologies.
All power plants that we operate are located in the Czech Republic. The total
installed capacity of our generation facilities as of December 31, 2004 amounted
to 12,297 MW. In 2004, we generated 62,126 GWh of electricity. Of this amount,
coal-fired plants accounted for 54.7%, our nuclear power plants accounted for
42.4%, and hydroelectric plants accounted for 2.9% of electricity produced. The
remaining electric power consumed in the Czech Republic comes from independent
power producers, self generators and imports. CEZ operates twenty-four(2) power
plants, including ten coal-fired plants, twelve hydroelectric plants and two
nuclear power plants, while other members of our consolidated group operate a
number of small power plants with aggregate installed capacity of 144 MW. See
"Property, Plants and Equipment" on page 30. We also purchase electricity from
Sokolovska uhelna a.s., certain other companies (this applies to our
distribution companies), and, under favorable circumstances, from traders.
Through REAS we have direct access to approximately 3.4 million of end customers
(including both eligible final customers and households) in the Czech Republic.
Of the quantity of electricity we sold in the Czech Republic in 2004, we sold
approximately 57% to final customers to cover electricity consumption in the
Czech Republic. On January 18, 2005, we acquired majority shares in three
electricity distribution companies in Western Bulgaria. These companies were not
a part of our consolidated group as of the end of year 2004.(1) Through the
distribution companies in Bulgaria we have access to approximately 1.8 million
end customers. On April 5, 2005 we entered into an agreement to acquire a
majority share in the largest distribution company in Romania, through which we
will have access to another 1.4 million end customers. Combined the Czech
Republic, Bulgaria and Romania, in aggregate we will have access to
approximately 6.6 million end customers.
- -------------------
(1) For further information on consolidation of our financial statements see
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
(2) Calculation of the number of plants that we operate varies depending on
whether a plant is counted independently or as a part of a larger
organization unit. The number of plants used herein is based on larger
organizational units.
14
The following table sets forth a breakdown of the amounts of electricity that we
procured and which was supplied in and exported from the Czech Republic from
2002 through 2004:
2002 2003 2004
---- ---- ----
(GWh)
Procurement:
Generated in-house (gross)............................ 54,118 61,399 62,126
Other purchasing for resale .......................... 2,018 13,983 11,625
Purchased from OTE(1)................................. 900 1,009 489
Purchased to cover own consumption.................... 18 21 11
Purchased from outside the Czech Republic............. 1,338 919 2,129
------------ ----------- --------------
Total.............................................. 58,392 77,331 76,380
============ =========== ==============
Supply:
Sold in the domestic market........................... 36,245 48,883 54,719(5)
Sold to electricity distribution companies......... 31,466 14,107 14,886
Sold to OTE(1)..................................... 1,333 1,072 565
Sold to eligible customers(2)...................... 69 9,467 15,604
Sold to captive customers(3)....................... 0 21,259 16,066
Sold to traders(4)................................. 2,593 1,935 6,768
Of which: sold to traders for export........... 0 0 5,885
Sold to CEPS to cover losses in transmission grid.. 598 719 677
Other domestic sales............................... 186 324 153
Exports............................................... 16,008 19,227 10,966(6)
Trading outside of the Czech Republic (sales) ........ 921 895 1,977
Total Sales........................................... 53,174 69,005 67,662
Other consumption of CEZ Group (including in-house 5,218 5,665 5,933
consumption)..........................................
Losses................................................ 0 2,661 2,785
------------ ----------- --------------
Total.............................................. 58,392 77,331 76,380
============ =========== ==============
(1) Operator trhu s elektrinou, a. s. (Electricity Market Operator)
(2) Final customers pursuant to Section 28 of the Energy Act
(3) Final customers pursuant to Section 29 of the Energy Act
(4) Electricity traders pursuant to Section 30 of the Energy Act
(5) Domestic real 2004 sales (without export via traders) was 48,834 GWh
(6) Total real 2004 export (including export via traders) was 16,851 GWh
In addition to electric power, we also generate heat, which we supply to
municipalities, district heating companies and industrial consumers via
steam/hot water pipelines that we operate with other persons. See "Heat
Generation" on page 19.
BREAKDOWN OF REVENUE BY ACTIVITY
The following table sets forth a breakdown of our principal activities together
with the revenue generated from such activities for the years 2002 through 2004:
2002 2003 2004
---- ---- ----
(CZK millions)
Electricity and Transmission Sales(1) ............52,938 79,548 92,748
Heat Sales........................................1,673 1,833 1,883
Other..............................................967 3,435 5,534
(1) In 2002, our revenue from electricity sales amounted to approximately CZK
41,021 million, and our revenue from transmission sales amounted to
approximately CZK 11,917 million. After the sale of 66% of our shares in
CEPS, a.s. on April 1, 2003, we do not account for our transmission sales
separately and we have no comparable data available for 2003 and for 2004.
Additionally, we do not account for our electricity sales from our nuclear,
hydro-electric and coal-fired power plants separately.
15
ELECTRICITY GENERATION
In 2004, we produced a total of 62,126 GWh of electricity, which represents
approximately 73.7% of the total electricity produced in the Czech Republic.
Revenues from electricity sales amounted to approximately CZK 92.7 million or
92.6% of our total revenues for 2004.
The following table provides information regarding our installed electricity
generating capacity at December 31, 2004 and the method of electricity
generation during the year ended December 31, 2004:
At December 31, 2004 Year Ended December 31, 2004
-------------------- ----------------------------
Installed Installed Electricity Total
Capacity Capacity Generation Production
-------- -------- ---------- -----------
(MW) (%) (GWh) (%)
Coal-Fired Plants........................................... 6,603 53.7 34,002 54.7
Nuclear Plants.............................................. 3,760 30.6 26,324 42.4
Hydroelectric Plants, Wind(1) and Solar Power Plant(2)...... 1,934 15.7 1,800 2.9
---------------- ----------------- ------------------ -------------
Total................................................... 12,297 100 62,126 100
================ ================= ================== =============
(1) Power plant in the locality of Mravenecnik near the Dlouhe Strane
hydroelectric power plant.
(2) Included under the Dukovany power plant organizational unit.
Coal-Fired Power Generation
Through CEZ, we own and operate ten (10) coal-fired power plants which are
further described below under "Property, Plants and Equipment" on page 30. In
2004, our coal-fired plants owned by CEZ generated 33,666 GWh of electricity
representing 54.2% of our total electricity production.
Our coal-fired plants have a diversified age profile, and we have a planned
program of regular repairs and overhauls for the generating units. In most
cases, parts of these units have already been completely reconstructed and
modernized. As of December 31, 2004, we had installed FBB or FGD equipment on
all of our coal-fired capacity and we have installed or refurbished
electrostatic precipitators (which reduce particle emissions) on all but two of
our coal-fired power plants. The coal-fired plants that we own and operate are
situated at various locations throughout the Czech Republic, the largest
concentration being in the lignite mining region in the northwest of the Czech
Republic. We have decommissioned the Ledvice I power plant, two units of the
Melnik II power plant and three units of the Tusimice I power plant. We decided
to decommission these plants because, in our judgment, we have sufficient
capacity to satisfy demand using our existing plants.
Types and Sources of Coal. The majority of our coal-fired power plants (97.6%)
utilize lignite. Currently only one of our power plants (and partially another
one) uses hard coal. We have four main domestic suppliers of lignite and one
domestic supplier of hard coal.
Most of our coal-fired power plants are located in the vicinity of the North
Bohemian brown coal basin. Conveyor belts from nearby mines directly supply coal
to three power plants, Ledvice II, Tisova I and II and Tusimice II. In other
cases, rail is primarily used to transport coal supplies over relatively short
distances. We maintain coal stocks at a general level of 16% of our annual
consumption at plants that are not in direct proximity to coal mines.
Coal Contracts. For the purchase of lignite we have entered into a number of
annual, five-year and one long-term contract with Appian Group, a.s., Sokolovska
uhelna, a.s., Severoceske doly, a.s, Lignit Hodonin, s.r.o., GEMEC-UNION, a.s.
and with OKD, a.s, for the purchase of hard coal. We have signed a long-term
contract with Severoceske doly, a.s., and short term contracts (annual) with
Severoceske doly, a.s., Appian Group, a.s., Sokolovska uhelna, a.s. Our contract
with Lignit Hodonin, s.r.o. for lignite is medium-term until 2010. We have
signed a short term agreement with OKD, a.s. for hard coal. See "Equity
Interests of CEZ in Other Companies as of December 31, 2004" on page 30.
We generally enter into contracts for coal deliveries on the basis of tenders.
Short-term contracts resulting from such tenders fix prices for one year.
In October 1997, we signed a long-term contract with the largest producer of
lignite in the Czech Republic, Severoceske doly, a.s. In 1999, we increased our
stake in Severoceske doly, a.s. to more than one-third of the capital stock of
Severoceske doly, a.s. Severoceske doly, a.s. supplies approximately 60% of our
total consumption of
16
lignite. This contract covers supplies through the year 2030 a and we intend to
sign a amendment soon which will prolong the contract until 2052. The amendment
will not change the agreed volume of supplies, but extends the supplies in time
to cover the operation life of our coal-fired power plants. We purchase the
largest amount of coal in the Czech Republic.
The following table sets forth the rate of price increases (decreases) for which
we purchased lignite and hard coal as compared to inflation rates for the years
2002 through 2004:
Year Lignite (%) Hard Coal (%) Inflation (%)
---- ---------- ------------ ------------------
2002 0.0 0.7 1.8
2003 0.0 0.0 0.1
2004 2.5 (0.7) 2.8
Although we have been in a good bargaining position vis-a-vis coal suppliers and
we have generally been able to keep increases in coal prices below increases in
the annual inflation rates, there can be no assurance that we will be able to do
so in 2005 or future years. The stagnation in lignite coal prices in 2004 was
influenced primarily by the low inflation rate, market conditions and increased
competitive pressures among suppliers. The decrease with respect to hard coal
was primarily due to purchases of less quality hard coal.
We purchase limestone and lime for desulfurization facilities and fluidized-bed
boilers under long and medium-term contracts from a total of five domestic
suppliers. LOMY MORINA spol. s r.o. supplies approximately 49% of the total
amount. We hold 51.05% of the registered capital of LOMY MORINA spol. s r.o. We
hold 64.87% of the registered capital of KOTOUC STRAMBERK, spol. s r.o., which
supplies approximately 21% of our total limestone and lime needs at prices which
are renegotiated each year. These prices do not differ significantly from market
prices.
Historically, prices for lime, limestone and other raw materials have generally
risen, but such changes have not been material.
Taking into account geographical restrictions and current estimates of
coal-fired generation needs, we estimate there are sufficient lignite reserves
in the Czech Republic for the operation of our coal-fired power plants for
approximately 50 years. This estimate is based on an expectation that in
approximately 20 years, the amount of electricity produced in coal fired power
plants will decrease by 50%.
Total expenses for energetic fuel in coal-fired power plants consumed in 2004
amounted to CZK 10,899 million or 13.5% of our total operating expenses. Total
expenses for lime and limestone consumed in 2004 amounted to approximately CZK
630 million or 0.8% of our total operating expenses.
Final Disposal of Coal Waste. Pursuant to the 2001 Act on Wastes, effective from
January 1, 2002, and related regulations, we dispose of coal ash by depositing
it in landfills and disused shafts of existing mines. We sell some of the coal
ash residues to certain producers of building materials. In addition, we have
been selling a portion of the FGD gypsum remaining after the desulfurization
process to certain producers of construction materials. Although such sales have
not been material to our revenues, they represent an important element in our
environmental initiatives.
Sources of Working Materials. We select suppliers of caustic soda, sulfuric
acid, hydrochloric acid, technical gases, turbine and transformer oils and other
working materials on the basis of tenders. Individual power plants conclude
these supplier contracts. Our total expenditure for such supplies do not
represent a material portion of our overall expenses.
Nuclear Power Generation
Through CEZ, we currently own and operate two nuclear power plants, one situated
at Dukovany, in the South Moravian District of Trebic and the second at Temelin,
in the South Bohemian district of Ceske Budejovice. We describe both Dukovany
and Temelin in further detail below under "Property, Plants and Equipment" on
page 30 and "Capital Investments" on page 36. In 2004, our nuclear power
plants generated 26,324 GWh of electricity, representing 42.4% of our total
electricity production.
17
Both nuclear power plants are equipped with VVER reactors. VVER is a pressurized
water reactor in which water acts as both the moderator and the coolant. The
design of a VVER plant is generally considered identical to the design of PWR
plants based on U.S. technology (in which water also acts as the moderator and
the coolant) and which is the most common reactor type commercially used around
the world.
Unlike analogous western nuclear power plants, the units of the Dukovany nuclear
plant have no full pressure containment, however the function of the barrier
which prevents escape of radioactive steam into the atmosphere in case of any
breach of the primary circuit (the sealed circuit comprised of the steel
pressure vessel containing the reactor, the steam generator and the connecting
pipe work) is ensured by hermetic zones complemented by bubbler tower which
prevents hermetic zones from overpressurizing. In the Temelin nuclear power
plant, both units are constructed with standard full pressure containment of
western type. The Dukovany and Temelin nuclear plants are designed to withstand
the maximum design accident caused by a breakdown of the primary circuit and are
designed to be able to reduce the pressure and temperature of steam escaping
from the primary circuit to the hermetic zones or containment by using spray
systems.
Dukovany Nuclear Power Plant. The construction of the Dukovany nuclear power
plant began in January 1979 and its four units became operational between May
1985 and July 1987. The power plant has been in continuous operation since 1985.
The power plant uses four Soviet designed VVER 440-213 pressurized water
reactors with a total installed electricity generating capacity of 1,760 MW.
Outside the former Soviet Union, such reactors are in operation in the Czech
Republic, Finland, Hungary, Bulgaria and the Slovak Republic.
The State Nuclear Safety Authority (the "Nuclear Safety Authority") grants
operating licenses that are renewable upon application. The following table sets
forth the status of licenses at the Dukovany power plant:
Unit License Valid Until:
---- -------------------
1 December 31, 2005
2 December 31, 2006
3 December 31, 2007
4 December 31, 2007
From its initial operation to December 31, 2004, the Dukovany nuclear plant has
generated approximately 238 TWh of electricity at an average load factor per
year of 83.27%.
Temelin Nuclear Power Plant. Our second nuclear power plant is located at
Temelin in South Bohemia, was completed in 2004 and entered into commercial
operation in October 2004. It employs two VVER 1,000 pressurized water reactors,
each with a capacity of 1,000 MW. See "Capital Investments--Nuclear Power
Plants" on page 38 for more information about the Temelin power plant. From its
initial operation to December 31, 2004, the Temelin nuclear plant has generated
approximately 31,407 GWh of electricity.
The following table sets forth the status of licenses at the Temelin power
plant:
Unit License Valid Until:
---- --------------------
1 October 11, 2010
2 May 31, 2012
Procurement of Nuclear Fuel Materials. Nuclear fuel materials and services
(i.e., uranium, conversion, and enrichment) are supplied on the basis of long
term contracts. Current needs for nuclear materials are contractually fully
covered for several forthcoming years. Majority of these supply contracts had
been concluded before the recent growth of prices on the market. A diversified
portfolio of suppliers and reasonable stockpiles of fuel materials have been
maintained within the framework of our procurement policy and also in compliance
with recommendations of the Euratom Supply Agency.
Nuclear fuel for the nuclear power plant Temelin is supplied by Westinghouse
according to a requested schedule on the basis of our long term contract. Second
refueling at Unit 1 and the first refueling at Unit 2 were completed in 2004.
Regarding the nuclear power plant Dukovany, deliveries of nuclear fuel
designated for the implementation of the progressed "five-year fuel cycle"
continue under the very long term contract concluded with Russian OAO TVEL.
Stocks of fuel, to cover at least one year needs, are kept at the nuclear power
plant Dukovany.
Spent Nuclear Fuel Storage. Operation of an interim storage facility for spent
nuclear fuel which utilizes transport and storage containers licensed and used
in a number of countries (including the United States) at the site of the
18
Dukovany nuclear power plant became operational in December 1995. The capacity
of this facility is sufficient for the operation of the power plant until 2005.
We are in the process of building a new interim storage facility and expect the
construction to be completed in 2005. Once the new storage facility starts
operations, we estimate that the capacity of the interim storage facility will
be sufficient for the planned life of the power plant. We are also planning the
construction of an interim storage facility for spent nuclear fuel from the
Temelin power plant at the Temelin site. In 2004, environmental impact
assessment (EIA) procedure was initiated with Austria and Germany being
participants of the proceedings. An underground interim storage facility at the
Skalka site in South Moravia is being considered as an alternative for the
storage of spent fuel from both power plants. A local zoning permit for this
site was issued to us in March 2001. In 1999 we sold the repository for disposal
of low and medium level radioactive waste from the operation of both Dukovany
and Temelin nuclear power plants to the Repository Authority (state agency). The
Repository Authority has engaged us to continue operating this repository
located at Dukovany site.
Hydroelectric Power Generation
Through CEZ, we operate twelve (12) hydroelectric power plants (small storage or
pump storage), which are described in individual detail under "Property, Plants
and Equipment" on page 30. In 2004, our hydroelectric power plants generated
1,612 GWh of electricity representing 2.6% of our total electricity generation.
Eight of these plants are situated on dams on the Vltava river creating a
cascade operation controlled by a central control system. The total of 1,869 MW
of hydroelectric power capacity that we operate represents an important and
cost-effective source of peak load generation for CEZ. In recent years, the
electricity consumption pattern in the Czech Republic has exhibited increasing
intra-day peak demand. Additional development of hydropower generation in the
Czech Republic is limited by the topography of the country and we currently are
not constructing and do not have plans to construct any new hydroelectric power
plants.
Hydroelectric power plants have a high degree of flexibility in the regulation
of their output. The ability to control conventional storage hydroelectric power
plants and pump storage plants centrally permits the hydroelectric plants to
commence operating very rapidly thereby facilitating our regulation of electric
output.
Neither conventional storage nor pump storage hydroelectric power plants release
polluting emissions into the atmosphere. These plants also represent an
inexpensive source of electric energy, particularly in periods of peak demand.
In addition, pump storage power plants allow the productive use of excess
electricity generated by base load plants by operating storage pumps in periods
of low demand.
HEAT GENERATION
In general, heat is a by-product of the generation of electricity. We sell heat
to municipalities, district heating companies and industrial consumers. At the
present time, we are supplying heat from all of our coal-fired plants and both
of our nuclear power plants. Heat is supplied to customers via steam/hot water
pipelines operated by us and other persons. In 2004, sales of heat amounted to
CZK 1,883 million or 1.9% of our total revenues.
TRANSMISSION OF ELECTRICITY
Until April 1, 2003 we controlled the electricity transmission grid in the Czech
Republic through our wholly-owned subsidiary, CEPS, a.s. CEPS, a.s. operates a
total of approximately 4,477 km (approximately 2,782 miles) of transmission
lines connection the power plants to the distribution network. On April 1, 2003
we transferred our 66% share in CEPS, a. s. to various governmental entities. On
September 3, 2004, we sold our remaining 34% share in CEPS, a. s. to the Czech
government as required by a decision of the Czech Anti-Monopoly Office. The
purchase price for the 34% share was CZK 7,087 million and will be paid to us in
five installments, the last one being payable in 2009. For more information see
"--Distribution of Electricity."
DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRICITY
The term "distribution" refers to the transportation of electricity from the
transmission grid to end-users (i.e., customers that use the electricity).
Currently, we operate distribution lines in the Czech Republic and Bulgaria, and
we expect to enter Romanian distribution market soon through acquisition of
shares in a major Romanian distribution company. In aggregate, we have access to
approximately 6.6 million end customers (including the Czech Republic, Bulgaria,
and Romania).
19
The Czech Republic
Acquisition of REAS. On March 11, 2002 the Czech government decided to sell to
us its shares in the eight REAS (regional electric power distribution companies)
held by the National Property Fund and the Czech Consolidation Agency. The Czech
government also decided to purchase our 66% share in our transmission subsidiary
CEPS, a. s. The transactions were approved at our shareholder's meeting held on
June 11, 2002. On March 20, 2003, we received an affirmative opinion from the
Czech Anti-Monopoly Office approving the sale of the distribution companies to
us. After the fulfillment of this last condition precedent for the integration
of the electric power industry, we signed promissory notes on March 28, 2003,
and on April 1, 2003 the transfer of the shares of the eight distribution
companies to us was consummated. Concurrently, we transferred a 51% share in
CEPS, a. s. to OSINEK, a. s., a wholly-owned subsidiary of the National Property
Fund, and a 15% share in CEPS, a. s. to the Ministry of Labor and Social
Affairs. After netting the price we should pay for the REAS against the price
that we should receive for CEPS, a.s., we are required to pay the National
Property Fund approximately CZK 15.2 billion by mid-2006. As requested by the
National Property Fund, we accelerated the repayment and the last installment of
CZK 3.7 billion was repaid on June 30, 2004.
In its affirmative decision on the sale of REAS to us, the Czech Anti-Monopoly
Office stated three conditions which we are required to fulfill and which were
in the opinion of the Czech Anti-Monopoly Office necessary for the protection of
economic competition in the electricity distribution market in the Czech
Republic:
o We were required to dispose of our remaining 34% share in CEPS, a. s.
to the Czech government;
o We were required to dispose of all our minority shares in the three
REAS in which we hold such minority shares, namely in Jihoceska
energetika, a.s., Jihomoravska energetika, a.s., and Prazska
energetika, a.s.; and
o We were required to dispose of a majority share in one of the REAS in
which we acquired majority shares. The Anti-Monopoly Office did not
specify which REAS in particular we should sell, and therefore we
could choose to sell any of Severoceska energetika, a.s.,
Severomoravska energetika, a.s., Vychodoceska energetika, a.s.,
Zapadoceska energetika, a.s., or Stredoceska energeticka, a.s. Our
Board of Directors decided to sell Severoceska energetika, a.s.
With respect to the first condition, we sold our remaining our remaining 34%
share in CEPS, a. s. to the Czech government on September 3, 2004. See
"--Transmission of Electricity."
With respect to the second condition, we have already fulfilled our obligation
in relation to our two minority interests by swapping our minority shareholding
interests in Jihoceska energetika a.s. and Jihomoravska energetika, a.s. with
E.ON Czech Holding AG ("E.ON") for minority interests in Zapadoceska energetika,
a.s. and Vychodoceska energetika, a.s. We have also fulfilled our obligation
with respect to Prazska energetika, a.s. by selling our remaining 34% share in
this company on August 20, 2004.
With respect to the third condition, in November 2004 we filed a request with
the Czech Anti-Monopoly Office for this condition to be abolished. In March 2005
the Anti-Monopoly Office abolished the third condition in accordance with our
request, and ordered that we adopt certain measures in order to ensure proper
competition on the Czech electricity market in 2006 and 2007. As a result of
this development, we are no longer required to sell one of our five REAS, and we
will keep holding majority shares in Severoceska energetika, a.s.,
Severomoravska energetika, a.s., Vychodoceska energetika, a.s., Zapadoceska
energetika, a.s., and Stredoceska energeticka, a.s.
In 2004, we further increased our shares in some of the REAS we control. In
October 2004, we exercised certain call options from E.ON and increased our
shares in Severoceska energetika, a.s. to 56.9% and in Severomoravska
energetika, a.s. to 89.4%. Pursuant to a mandatory tender offer towards minority
shareholders of Severomoravska energetika, a.s., which we announced in December
2004, we further increased our share in this company to 99.13%.
Distribution network characteristics. Following acquisition of the REAS, our
distribution network is the largest in the Czech Republic. Through the
distribution systems of our REAS, we sell electricity to approximately 3.4
million end customers, or approximately 62% of all end customers in the Czech
Republic. This amounted to approximately 28.7 TWh of electricity distributed and
sold in 2004. As at December 31, 2004 distribution network of our REAS consisted
of a total of 9,492 km of high voltage lines, 49,418 km of medium voltage lines
and 94,091 km of low
20
voltage lines. There are 188 HV/MV transformers stations,
2,947 MV/MV switching stations and 38,162 distribution ML/LV transformer
stations in the area.
Unbundling. Pursuant to an amendment of the Energy Act adopted in 2004, as of
January 1, 2007 distribution of electricity must be separated and independent
from generation of electricity. This process is called "unbundling". To ensure
the required independence, management responsible for electricity distribution
business must be different from management responsible for electricity
generation business, appropriate measures must be taken to prevent professional
conflicts of interest between persons responsible for electricity distribution
and generation businesses, and control which can be exercised by shareholders
over electricity distribution companies is restricted. For more information see
"Economic, Fiscal, Monetary or Political Policies or Factors Which Impact Our
Business--Unbundling Requirement" on page 27 and "Risk factors" on page 9.
VIZE 2008. To ensure compliance with the unbundling requirement while
efficiently integrating REAS and our other subsidiaries into our group, we are
in the process of implementing a strategy called "VIZE 2008" ("Vision 2008" in
English). The purpose of the project is to implement a new process-based
business model in CEZ group which would cover CEZ and all subsidiaries of CEZ,
including REAS. The main processes are envisaged to be:
o electricity trading (including trading, marketing, sale, and customer
services), which will be main focus of our newly-created subsidiaries
CEZ Prodej, s.r.o. and CEZ Zakaznicke sluzby, s.r.o.;
o electricity distribution and related activities, which will be main
focus of our newly-created subsidiary CEZ Distribuce, a.s.;
o management of CEZ group (including risk management, financing,
controlling, communication, subsidiaries management, regulation, human
resources), which will be main focus of CEZ; and
o supporting services (including information technologies,
telecommunications, property administration), which will be main focus
of our newly-created subsidiaries CEZ Logistika, s.r.o., CEZData,
s.r.o., and CEZ Sprava majetku, s.r.o.
In the process of implementation of VIZE 2008, activities of our various current
subsidiaries will be gradually transferred into the above process-based
companies. For instance, most of properties, employees and activities of our
REAS will be transferred into CEZ Distribuce, a.s. We believe that this will
allow us to increase efficiency through economies of scale and standardization
of processes, while complying with the unbundling requirements.
Bulgaria
Acquisitions. On November 19, 2004, we entered into an agreement on the purchase
of majority shares in three distribution companies in Western Bulgaria. Upon
satisfaction of various conditions precedent, we became owners of the majority
shares on January 18, 2005. For more information see "Material contracts" on
page 63.
Distribution network characteristics. The acquired distribution companies have
approximately 1.9 million customers, the overall annual volume of the
electricity supplied by them is approximately 7.6 TWh, and their distribution
network consisted of a total of 22,962 km of medium voltage lines and 32,776 km
of low-voltage lines. There are 22 HV/MV transformer stations, 54 MV/MV
switching stations and 13,874 distribution MV/LV transformer stations in the
area.
Romania
Purchase of a distribution company in Romania. On April 5, 2005, we entered into
a privatization agreement with the S. C. Electrica S.A., a company wholly-owned
by the government of Romania. Pursuant to this agreement, we purchased from S.
C. Electrica S.A., as the seller, 11,445,150 existing ordinary shares issued by
Electrica Oltenia S.A., a major Romanian distribution company, representing
24.62% of the share capital of this company for the purchase price of EUR
47,372,550. Further, pursuant to the agreement the seller agreed to procure that
Electrica Oltenia S.A. issues 25,036,265 new shares to us and we agreed to
subscribe for these newly-issued shares for the subscription price of EUR
103,627,450. As a result, we expect to become owners of a 51% stake in Electrica
Oltenia S.A.
Closing of the transactions envisaged by the agreement is still subject to
various conditions precedent. These condition precedents include, among other
conditions, issuance of all necessary competition approvals by the Competition
Council of Romania and several legislative actions to be taken by the government
of Romania. We expect closing in the end of October 2005, however, there is no
certainty that all conditions precedent will be satisfied or waived and that
closing of the agreement will actually occur.
On the signing date, we paid a deposit in the amount of EUR 4,737,255 into an
escrow account. We will be required to pay the remainder of the purchase price
and the subscription price for the new shares into special escrow accounts prior
to closing. Upon closing, the purchase price and the subscription price, in
total EUR 151,000,000, are to be paid to the seller, and the existing shares and
new shares are to be delivered to us. The purchase price is subject to certain
adjustments after the closing.
We have provided to the seller several post-closing covenants, including,
amongst others, our obligation no to transfer, with limited exemptions, any of
the acquired shares for the period of five calendar years commencing on closing.
We have also provided certain warranties, and we agreed to pay certain
contractual penalties to the seller if we breach some of our obligations under
the agreement. The seller provided to us certain post-closing covenants,
including, amongst others, certain put and call options, and a pre-emption right
for our benefit. The seller also provided certain warranties and indemnification
to us.
Distribution network characteristics. Electrica Oltenia S.A. is the largest of
the eight Romanian distributors, having a 19% share on the Romanian power market
and 1.36 million end customers. The aggregate annual power supplied by this
company represents approximately 6.8 TWh, and its distribution network consisted
of a total of 3,537 km of high voltage lines, 19,897 km of medium voltage lines
and 27,183 km of low-voltage lines. There are 150 HV/MV transformer stations, 86
MV/MV switching stations and 9,963 distribution MV/LV transformer stations in
the area.
21
EXPORTS, IMPORTS AND INTERNATIONAL EXCHANGE OF POWER
In 2004, we only imported 148 GWh on behalf of the Czech grid operator CEPS,
a.s.
In 2004, our revenues from electricity exports, including trade outside the
Czech Republic, amounted to CZK 10.3 billion or approximately 11.1% of revenues
from electricity sales. The total export amounted to 16.9 TWh. Although the
total export was lower then in 2003, the revenues were higher. We thus became
the second largest European exporter of electricity. Our high-voltage
transmission grid is inter-connected with the transmission grids of Germany,
Poland, Austria and the Slovak Republic. We exported electricity to or via all
of above mentioned countries on the basis of both short and long-term contracts.
However, our export sales in 2004 set our record, and we do not expect such high
export activities in future.
SALES OF POWER
CEZ sells most of the electricity it supplies (approximately 57% of total
revenues from electricity sales in 2004) to the eight REAS. In 2004 our direct
sales of electric power to the regional distribution companies increased by
4,159 GWh in comparison with 2003, an increase of 11.9 %. Our total sales in the
domestic market increased by 10,702 GWh, an increase of 27.4 %.
Changing Conditions in the Electricity Market.
In accordance with the Energy Act, starting from January 1, 2002, a gradual
liberalization of the electricity market was initiated in the Czech Republic.
The electricity market is based on regulated access to the transmission grid and
the distribution systems. The participants in the electricity market include
power-generation companies, the operator of the power transmission grid, the
market operator, the commodities exchange, traders, and end customers. On
January 1, 2003, the second group of end customers (customers with an annual
consumption in excess of 9 GWh) obtained the status of eligible customers with
the right of access to the transmission grid and the right to choose their
supplier of electricity. From January 2006 all electricity consumers (including
households) will become eligible customers having the possibility to choose
their electricity supplier. Government regulated prices for electricity will
then apply only to transmission and distribution of electricity, and to
system-related prices (the prices of network monopolies).
We responded to these new conditions, under which the market for domestic power
producers had been fully opened up and it became possible to secure power from
foreign competitors, by selling electricity in a completely new and
fundamentally different way. Under the brand name "Duhova energie" (Rainbow
Energy), we offered electricity in the domestic market in the form of
standardized products similar to those being traded in the liberalized European
markets. The structure of the offered products consists of "building blocks"
from which the customers can build the required supply regime. The structure of
this offer makes it possible for all of the regional distribution companies to
fully satisfy not only the requirements of the protected customers, to whom the
law obligates them to supply electricity, but to also fully satisfy other
requirements for delivery of electricity from us.
We have offered several "Duhova energie" products to the distribution companied
on the domestic market. Approximately 90% of the domestic market sales targets
for "Duhova energie" were achieved before the year 2004 started. In the course
of 2004, we also used our available power production capacities for immediate
sales of electricity on the Czech spot market that is organized by the
Electricity Market Operator (Operator trhu s elektrinou, a. s.) and for the sale
of electricity on the basis of bilateral agreements that were concluded for such
purpose. We were selling electricity on the Czech and Moravian Commodities
Exchange in Kladno as well. Electricity exports represented an important
component of our business activities, one which had an impact on the overall
volume of electricity sold in 2004.
Ancillary Services.
In order to ensure system-related services, CEPS, a. s., the operator of the
transmission grid, announces tenders for the purchase of ancillary services, and
based on the results of such tenders concludes bilateral contracts with the
providers of such services, and also organizes a short-term (daily) market for
ancillary services. In 2004, a total of ten companies, including us, offered
ancillary services. In 2004, CEZ provided 65% of all ancillary services of CEPS,
a. s. in financial terms. Total revenues from the sales of ancillary services
amounted to 5.3 million CZK in 2004.
22
INSURANCE MATTERS
We maintain several types of insurance against damage of our property and
against our potential liabilities. These include property insurance of
conventional power plants, property insurance of nuclear power plants, nuclear
liability insurance, other liability insurance and other property insurance. Our
insurance coverage complies with the Act No. 18/1997 Coll. (the "Nuclear Act")
and the Vienna Convention on Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage (the "Vienna
Convention") requirements in respect of responsibility for damage caused by a
nuclear incident.
Our coal-fired plants and hydroelectric plants are covered by property insurance
since June 1, 1997. The policy covers any and all property of the power plants
(except for land) duly kept in our accounts. Currently, the maximum coverage
under the policy is CZK 3.3 billion, and the deductible per event is CZK 50
million. Damages we suffered as a result of floods in August 2002 have had an
unfavorable impact on the amount of premium. The floods damaged the majority of
our hydro-electric power plants on the Vltava river and the coal-fired power
plant in Melnik. Liquidation of these damages has been completed at the end of
2003; the amount of damages accepted and covered by the insurers was CZK 766
million. In February 2004, we applied for additional coverage of our damages in
connection with damage to our Orlik hydroelectric plant; the amount of damages
accepted and covered by the insurers was CZK 27 million.
Pursuant to the Nuclear Act and the Vienna Convention, we are obliged to arrange
insurance of liability for nuclear damages caused by operation of nuclear power
plants and liability for nuclear damages caused during the transport of fresh
nuclear fuel. The Nuclear Act also stipulates limits of operators' liability for
nuclear damages and the minimum limits of liability insurance. As regards
liability for operation of a nuclear facility, the operator is liable for
nuclear damages up to CZK 6 billion and must be insured at least for CZK 1.5
billion. As regards transport of fuel, the maximum liability is CZK 1.5 billion,
and the operator must be insured at least for CZK 200 million. As a rule,
liability insurance for nuclear damages is concluded separately for each site
and transport of fuel with the Czech Nuclear Pool.
In accordance with the requirements of the Nuclear Act, we have concluded a
nuclear third party liability policy for damages connected with the operation of
the Dukovany and Temelin nuclear power plants covering damages up to CZK 1.5
billion, and insurance policies covering the nuclear third party liability up to
CZK 200 million for transport of nuclear fuel to the Dukovany and Temelin power
plants.
We maintain insurance policies that cover all property of both Temelin and
Dukovany nuclear power plants. These insurance policies were concluded under
different conditions of risk coverage, in particular with different limits of
insurance proceeds and various deductibles. Property insurance policy for the
Dukovany nuclear power plant was concluded as of December 31, 1998 with the
maximum coverage of CZK 3 billion, and the deductible per event CZK 80 million.
For Temelin, property insurance policy is effective from July 5, 2000, the
maximum coverage is CZK 35 billion, and the deductible per event is CZK 180
million.
All insurance policies for Dukovany and Temelin nuclear power plants are
maintained with the Czech nuclear pool, which is an association of about 10
major insurance companies in the Czech insurance market and which enjoys a
monopoly on nuclear risk insurance. The leader of the Czech Nuclear Pool is
Ceska pojistovna, a.s. Through reinsurance, the Czech Nuclear Pool assigns the
majority of risk to other approximately 20 national nuclear pools all over the
world.
Apart from the above, we maintain other insurance policies, including directors
and officers liability insurance to cover certain damage caused to the third
parties by members of the Board of Directors and Supervisory Board of our
Company and our subsidiaries.
SEASONALITY
The electricity generation business is seasonal, with electricity consumption in
the Czech Republic increasing during the colder winter months and decreasing
during the warmer summer months. Accordingly, sales of electricity and our
revenues are generally higher in the first and fourth fiscal quarters than in
the second and third fiscal quarters. In addition, unusually warm weather during
the winter months in any single year can negatively affect our revenues during
such year.
23
DEPENDENCE ON INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
We own a number of registered tradenames and trademarks, including the marks for
"CEZ" and our company logo. In 2002, we introduced the new brand "Duhova
energie". Our tradenames and trademarks are not of material importance to our
operations.
ECONOMIC, FISCAL, MONETARY OR POLITICAL POLICIES OR FACTORS WHICH IMPACT OUR
BUSINESS
Effect of Czech Economy on Electricity Demand
Our revenues are sensitive to the performance of the Czech economy. Virtually
all of our assets and operations are located in the Czech Republic and we derive
most of our electricity revenues from domestic sales. The Czech Gross Domestic
Product ("GDP"), annual rate of inflation and demand for electricity has
fluctuated as follows for the period from 2000 through 2004:
2000 2001 2002 2003 2004
---- ---- ---- ---- ----
GDP.......................... 3.9% 2.6% 1.5% 3.7% 4.0
Inflation(1)................. 3.9% 4.7% 1.8% 0.1% 2.8
Electricity Demand........... 2.8% 2.8% (0.2)% 2.1% 2.9
(1) As measured by the consumer price index reported by the Czech Statistical
Office.
Electricity Demand
Electricity demand is the net consumption of the final consumer, which does not
include transmission losses and self-consumption (including electricity used by
pump storage facilities). In 2004, when GDP rose by 4.0%, industrial demand
increased by 4.1%, households demand by 0.1% and retail business consumption
rose by 3.0%. Overall electricity demand increased in 2004 by 2.9%. Electricity
demand was primarily influenced by good shape of the Czech economy, not by
weather conditions. In 2004 average temperature was 0.6(degree)C above long-term
normal. Adjusted for the weather, the overall growth in electricity demand would
be 2.8%.
Inflation
The rate of inflation in the Czech Republic was 3.9% in 2000, 4.7% in 2001, 1.8%
in 2002, 0.1% in 2003 and 2.8% in 2004. Businesses, in general, are adversely
affected by inflation because amounts retained after the payment of costs are
inadequate to replace the productive assets consumed. Electricity companies in
the Czech Republic in particular have been especially affected as a result of
their capital intensive nature and regulation which limits capital recovery and
prescribes installation or modification of facilities to comply with
increasingly stringent environmental requirements. Because the accounting and
the revenue establishment processes followed by our regulators limit the amount
of depreciation expense to the original cost of utility plant investment, the
resulting cash flows are inadequate to provide for replacement of that
investment in future years or preserve the purchasing power of stockholders'
equity previously invested. Further, prices charged by us to the REAS have
increased at a rate substantially lower than the rate of inflation. We are
attempting to offset the adverse effects of inflation by reducing employee
levels and by attempting to keep price increases with respect to fuel and other
goods and services at levels less than the inflation rate.
A large portion of our debt is denominated in foreign currencies while
substantial part of our revenues (approximately 77.5%) are in Czech crowns.
While we have hedged against currency fluctuations to a certain degree, the
value of the Czech crown has an impact on our financial results. The Czech crown
to euro exchange rate has been relatively stable and there has been a trend of a
stronger Czech crown versus the U.S. dollar in 2004 with stabilization in 2005.
We can give no assurance that these trends will not continue and that they will
not affect our financial results adversely.
Czech National Property Fund
The Czech National Property Fund, a property holding agency of the Czech
Republic accountable to the Czech Parliament (the "Parliament"), owns
approximately 67.6% of our outstanding voting shares. See "Major Shareholders
and Related Party Transactions" on page 58. The NPF is headed by a presidium,
members of which are appointed by the Chamber of Deputies, which is the lower
chamber of the Parliament.
24
The NPF is a legal entity established pursuant to a special law of the Czech
Republic that is accountable to Parliament. The Czech government established the
NPF in 1991 for the purpose of, among other things, holding shares of
state-owned companies during the distribution and sale of their shares pursuant
to government resolutions on a company's privatization. The NPF is managed by a
presidium consisting of nine members. The Minister of Finance is the chairman of
the presidium and the Chamber of Deputies appoints the remaining members of the
presidium.
The NPF, as the majority shareholder of CEZ, nominates and elects two-thirds of
the members of our Supervisory Board. Czech law requires that our employees
elect one-third of the members of the Supervisory Board. Our Supervisory Board
elects members to the Board of Directors. For a description of the powers and
responsibilities of members of the Board of Supervisors and Board of Directors,
see "Item 10. Additional Information" on page 60.
The NPF has historically appointed the Minister of Industry and Trade as a proxy
to exercise its voting rights in respect of our shares held by the NPF.
The NPF is under the direct control of the government. The NPF owns property,
including equity interests, transferred to it in accordance with privatization
decisions. The NPF holds significant equity interests in certain of our
subcontractors, including Czech coal suppliers and equipment contractors and
suppliers for the Temelin nuclear power plant. Consequently, certain of our
decisions and the decisions of our suppliers and contractors which are mandated
by the NPF reflect Czech Republic government policy. We can give no assurance
that these decisions will not adversely affect our business, prospects,
financial condition or results of operations.
Pursuant to a recently adopted law, as of the end of 2005, the National Property
Fund will be terminated and all its property, including all our shares owned by
the NPF, will by virtue of law transfer to the Czech Republic and will be
administered by the Czech Ministry of Finance. Also, the Czech Republic will
assume all obligations of the NPF. As of January 1, 2006, the Czech Republic,
rather than the NPF, will be legally our majority shareholder.
Primary Regulators
The primary regulators of the energy industry in the Czech Republic are the
Ministry of Industry and Trade, the State Energy Inspection, the Ministry of
Environment, the Czech Environmental Inspection, the Energy Regulatory Office
and the Nuclear Safety Authority. The Ministry of Industry and Trade and the
Energy Regulatory Office have the authority to grant and cancel authorization to
engage in business in the energy industry and to issue regulations to implement
certain provisions of Act No. 458/2000 Coll. (the "Energy Act"), effective as of
January 1, 2001. The Ministry of Industry and Trade also develops the energy
policy for the Czech Republic and ensures that we comply with the Czech
Republic's obligations resulting from international agreements and treaties or
obligations resulting from membership in international organizations. The State
Energy Inspection, which operates under the Ministry of Industry and Trade, is
responsible for enforcing compliance with the Energy Act.
On June 1, 2002, a new Clean Air Act on the protection of air quality entered
into force. The Clean Air Act introduces provisions for a "smog situation" where
the air is extremely polluted such that the level of air pollution is so high
that even a short-term situation may cause a risk of damage to human health or
the ecosystem. Supplementary legislation specifies conditions under which the
emergence of a smog situation can be announced by the Ministry of the
Environment. After public announcement, the Ministry of the Environment is
authorized to temporarily restrict or suspend the operation of power generation
sources that account for the largest share of air pollution irrespective of
whether a particular source meets general air pollution limits or meets the
specific air pollution limits stipulated by the Czech government for individual
power generation sources. Every operator of an air pollution source (such as
ourselves) must comply with the limits so stipulated. The Czech Environmental
Inspection monitors compliance and may impose fines for exceeding pollution
limits and may prohibit the operation of a pollution source that exceeds the
applicable emissions limits. The Clean Air Act also authorizes regional
authorities to set, on the basis of a formula specified in the act, annual air
pollution fees to be paid by the operator of each pollution source.
Effective as of January 1, 2005, the Czech Republic adopted the European
Union-wide scheme for greenhouse gas emission allowance trading based on the
requirements of the Kyoto Protocol. The process of distribution of allowances is
currently pending in the Czech Republic.
The Czech government established the Energy Regulatory Office to support
economic competition and protect consumers' interests in energy sector areas
where competition is limited or impossible. The Energy Regulatory
25
Office grants and revokes energy producer licences and regulates energy prices.
The Energy Regulatory Office through its administrative decisions or through the
secondary legislation also sets quality and service standards, determines the
rules regarding the organization of the electricity market and mutual
obligations of its participants, sets pricing principles and administers special
fund established to cover losses of holders of licence to which each holder of
licence contributes proportionately to its turnover. In addition, the Energy
Regulatory Office resolves disputes arising from the failure to conclude
agreements between individual licence holders and/or their customers.
Effective as of January 5, 2001, the Czech government transferred the authority
to set electricity prices, as well as gas and heat prices, to the Energy
Regulatory Office pursuant to Act No. 526/1990 Coll. (the "Act on Prices"). The
Czech government controls the Energy Regulatory Office. Consequently, the
electricity prices set by the Energy Regulatory Office reflect Czech Republic
government policy.
The Nuclear Safety Authority supervises nuclear-related activities in general
and in particular the safety of nuclear facilities. The approval of the Nuclear
Safety Authority is required for the operation of nuclear facilities.
Energy Act
The Energy Act regulates the electricity, gas and heat industries in the Czech
Republic. Pursuant to this Act, the Ministry of Industry and Trade and the
Energy Regulatory Office authorize activities in such industries and determine
the rights and obligations of authorization holders. Under the Energy Act and
the related regulations promulgated by the Ministry of Industry and Trade and
the Energy Regulatory Office, a company must be authorized to operate in the
energy industry. Before receiving an authorization an applicant must
demonstrate, amongst others, its financial, technical and material qualification
for the exercise of the authorized activity, and that such activity does not
harm the environment (as defined in environmental regulations).
The Nuclear Safety Authority must also approve any nuclear electricity
generation facility before the Energy Regulatory Office may authorize such
facility. The Energy Regulatory Office has authorized us to operate nuclear
facilities for power generation. The Energy Regulatory Office has also
authorized us to operate power generation, power transmission, heat generation
and heat distribution facilities.
Pursuant to the Energy Act, the Ministry of Industry and Trade and the Energy
Regulatory Office each act independently as the state regulatory authorities and
the State Energy Inspection acts as the supervisory body of business activities
in the energy industry. The Ministry of Industry and Trade and/or the Energy
Regulatory Office can regulate our activity and investment in resources and
transmission lines with the aim of achieving a competitive environment depending
on the extent of the investment. The Ministry of Industry and Trade and/or the
Energy Regulatory Office can also monitor our capital investment plans and
activities.
Liberalization of the Electricity Market
The Czech government passed the Energy Act with the aim of harmonizing Czech Law
to EU requirements. The Energy Act establishes rules for the liberalization of
the Czech electricity market with the aim of securing the reliable and efficient
supply of electricity while protecting the environment. The new rules regulate
access to the transmission system and the distribution systems and allow the
operation of independent electricity generating plants and transmission lines.
Regulated third-party access of electricity transmission and distribution began
on January 1, 2002.
The Energy Act liberalized the Czech electricity market in a step-by-step
fashion that can be summarized as follows (there was an amendment to the Energy
Act adopted on August 6, 2003 which slightly increased the pace of
liberalization):
o starting January 1, 2002, if an electricity end user's electricity
consumption at one supply point exceeded 40 GWh (including
self-generated electricity) in the year 2000 (or in the one-year
period from July 1, 2000 to June 30, 2001), then such user may choose
its electricity supplier (and prices) from those electricity license
holders producing more than 10 MW of electricity per year;
o starting January 1, 2003, if an electricity end user's electricity
consumption at one supply point exceeded 9 GWh (including
self-generated electricity) in the year 2001 (or in the one-year
period from July 1, 2001 to June 30, 2002), then such user may choose
its electricity supplier (and prices) from all electricity license
holders;
26
o starting January 1, 2004, if an electricity end user's delivery point
is equipped by the continuous consumption meter, then such user may
choose its electricity supplier (and prices) from all electricity
license holders. Distribution companies are obliged to install such a
metering devise if the end user reserves the maximum connection
capacity 250 kW.
o starting January 1, 2005, all end users except households may choose
electricity suppliers (and prices) from all electricity license
holders.
o starting January 1, 2006, all end users may choose electricity
suppliers (and prices) from all electricity license holders.
For further discussion of the changing conditions in the Czech electricity
market, see "Sales of Power" on page 22.
Unbundling Requirement
Effective as of January 1, 2007, the Energy Act was amended with the aim of
harmonizing Czech law with EU requirements. The new amendment stipulates new
rules for business groups that simultaneously hold licenses for distribution of
electricity and for production of electricity. The new law requires such
companies to either divest their distribution business or structure the legal
form, organization, controlling mechanisms and management of the distribution
companies in the manner that guarantees an independent decision-making process
within the companies and non-discriminatory approach vis-a-vis all companies
present in the market regardless of their ownership. We are currently in the
process of adaptation to these requirements through implementation of our VIZE
2008 strategy. See "Distribution of Electricity" on page 19.
Nuclear Act
On June 24, 1994, the Czech Republic became a party to the Vienna Convention on
Third Party Liabilities for Nuclear Damage. Principles of the Vienna Convention
were implemented into the Nuclear Act adopted by Czech Parliament in 1997. The
Nuclear Act came into force on July 1, 1997 and was amended in January 2002
(with the majority of the amendments taking effect from July 1, 2002). In
accordance with the Vienna Convention, the Nuclear Act determines that only the
operator of a nuclear facility is liable for any damage caused by a nuclear
accident and that the operator's liability for such damage is limited to CZK 6
billion per accident. The Nuclear Act also prescribes that operators of nuclear
facilities (such as our Company) are obligated to acquire insurance covering
potential liabilities for nuclear damages in an amount of not less than CZK 1.5
billion. The Dukovany power plant and the Temelin power plant are fully insured
in accordance with the Nuclear Act and the Vienna Convention.
The Nuclear Act requires the Ministry of Industry and Trade to establish the
Repository Authority (the Radioactive Waste Repository Authority), as the
central organizer and operator of facilities for the final disposal of spent
fuel and other nuclear waste. The Repository Authority was established on June
1, 1997. The Nuclear Act provides that an owner of nuclear waste (such as our
Company) will remain responsible for all storage costs of nuclear waste, but
that the Repository Authority will centrally organize, supervise and be
responsible for all final disposal facilities and deposition of nuclear waste
therein. The establishment and activities of the Repository Authority are
financed through a special fund or "Nuclear Account" funded by the producers of
nuclear waste. We contribute CZK 50 per each MWh produced in our nuclear power
plant to the Nuclear Accout. Since October 1, 1997 we have made regular payments
to the Nuclear Account based on the nuclear MWh generated. Since 1997 until the
end of December 2004 we have paid CZK 6,006 billion to the Nuclear Account.
The Nuclear Act does not expressly indicate whether the Repository Authority
will be liable for nuclear accidents involving nuclear waste under its
supervision. The Nuclear Act, however, contains a provision to the effect that,
subject to the conditions of the Nuclear Act, the Czech Republic shall guarantee
the safe final disposal of nuclear waste.
Nuclear Safety Authority
Under Czech law, the Nuclear Safety Authority is responsible for state
administration and supervision of utilization of nuclear energy and ionizing
radiation. It shall carry out supervision of the nuclear safety, radiation
protection, physical protection and emergency preparedness of nuclear
installations. The Nuclear Safety Authority supervises compliance with relevant
regulations and decrees and reviews our operating documents, safety reports
regarding the
27
operation of nuclear facilities, the quality of selected facilities, repair and
maintenance and personnel training. The Nuclear Safety Authority representatives
(local inspectors) are permanently on site at Dukovany and Temelin to monitor
the facility's performance and compliance with safety standards and operating
procedures, and to make recommendations for improvements where appropriate. Safe
operation at Dukovany and Temelin is controlled through approval by the Nuclear
Safety Authority of various documentation (such as technical specifications,
etc). Compliance with regulations and requirements set out in approved
documentation is plant responsibility. The Nuclear Safety Authority carries out
its supervision through inspections. In 2004, there were 158 inspections at the
Dukovany nuclear power plant and 86 inspections at the Temelin nuclear power
plant. In its Annual Reports on nuclear safety and protection against radiation
presented to the government of the Czech Republic, the Nuclear Safety Authority
has evaluated the operation of the Dukovany nuclear power plant as reliable and
safe. Since their initial operation, the Dukovany and Temelin nuclear power
plants continuously monitor (under supervision of Nuclear Safety Authority)
levels of radiation in the immediate vicinity of the plants. To date, results of
monitoring in the ventilation outlets and in the drains of the plants have
indicated that radiation levels remain below statutory limits and, in the
majority of cases, considerably below these limits.
IAEA, WANO
The Czech Republic is a member of the International Atomic Energy Agency
("IAEA"), a United Nations inter-governmental agency. Both nuclear power plants
are also members of the World Association of Nuclear Operators ("WANO"), and,
like other members of such organization, submit our nuclear power plant to
periodic peer review by members of such association. A peer review mission
carried out by WANO at the Dukovany nuclear power plant in 1997 commended the
power plant for a high level of operation. As it is practice for such peer
reviews, CEZ has implemented the recommendations of the WANO peer review
mission. In 1999 a WANO peer review verified whether its recommendations had
been implemented. Such inspection concluded that its recommendations were being
implemented according to the recommended timetable. Similar WANO peer review
mission is scheduled at Temelin plant for the end of 2004.
As a result of the Czech Republic's membership in the IAEA, the IAEA carried out
an on-site IAEA assessment mission (ASSET mission) in October 1993 in order to
evaluate the Dukovany nuclear power plant's operation with respect to failures,
investigation thereof and remedial action in respect thereto. The IAEA mission
commended Dukovany for a high level of operational safety, citing, among other
things, a low occurrence of nuclear safety related incidents and the reduction
of such incidents over the years immediately preceding the study. The next IAEA
OSART mission of the Dukovany power plant which was initially scheduled for 1999
was rescheduled for November 2001. In November 2001, Dukovany underwent an
Operational Safety Review Team (the "OSART") review. Dukovany received several
"recommendations" "suggestions", which in overall put the plant among well
operated nuclear power plants. Based on the review, Dukovany prepared action
plan and fulfils it. In October 2003, a follow-up OSART mission was held to
review implementation of its earlier recommendations and stated excellent
fulfillment of previous recommendations. In February 2001 Temelin underwent an
IAEA inspection (of the PRE OSART type), the results of which commended Temelin
for its level of safety. As is usual with such inspections, the mission made
recommendations regarding additional safety measures and suggested improvements
which were already implemented. The main conclusions of the mission were
positive (commitment of Temelin managers to improve operational safety and
reliability, highly professional plant staff, plant material condition and
housekeeping in accordance with good international practices). A follow up OSART
mission took place at the end of 2003. The conclusions states that the OSART
team was impressed with the actions taken in most areas to resolve the findings
of the original mission. In November 2001, Temelin also underwent different
IAEA review mission focused on resolution of safety issues recommended for
implementation at VVER-1,000 reactors. This mission concluded that most of the
IAEA recommendations have been fully implemented and a few improvements are in
an advanced stage of implementation. The resolution of these improvements,
however, should not preclude safer operation of the Temelin power plant. The
IAEA review also noted that in some areas Temelin exceeds generally applicable
safety standards. In April 2002, a mission IPPAS (International Physical
Protection Advisory Service) performed final physical protection assessment of
Temelin. The final report evaluated well the physical protection of the nuclear
plant and stated that the level of the protection is adequate to the current
international standards. In March 2003, a Site Seismic Hazard Assessment mission
took place in Temelin to perform final seismic hazards assessment. The final
report of this mission did not contain any negative conclusions as to the
seismic hazard at Temelin. In December 2004, a WANO team conducted a peer
review at Temelin. WANO's mission is to maximize the safety and reliability of
the operation of nuclear power plants by exchanging information and encouraging
communication, comparison, and emulation among its members. The purpose of the
review was to determine strengths and areas in which improvements could be made,
and to support Temelin in this improvement process. WANO recognizes that many
activities and practices performed by Temelin are routinely done well. A
fraction of these are identified as
28
strengths and good practices, primarily those that are done exceptionally well
or that need to be brought to the attention of other utilities for emulation.
In 1991, IAEA and the Nuclear Energy Agency of the OECD introduced a seven-grade
international nuclear events scale ("INES"), an internationally recognized
standard used to inform the public of the safety significance of a nuclear
event. Grades 5 to 7 mark accidents with a significant radiation exposure
off-site, while grades 2 through 4 signify events with effects on the nuclear
facilities only. Grade 1 means a deviation from normal operation and Grade 0 an
incident not related to safety. According to this scale applied retrospectively,
the Dukovany nuclear power plant has experienced since 1999 until the end of
2004 only 5 incidents assessed Grade 1 and no incident assessed Grade 2 or
higher. The Temelin nuclear power plant has experienced throughout its lifetime
7 incidents assessed Grade 1 and no incident assessed Grade 2 or higher.
To enhance the performance of and safety at the Temelin nuclear power plant, we
introduced a large modification program in the period of construction and
commissioning. Main improvements are the instrumentation and control system
replacement and supply of nuclear fuel assemblies in accordance with new design.
Affiliates of the Westinghouse group were selected to supply this system. It is
a requirement of the Nuclear Safety Authority and a contractual condition of the
Company that the components comply with the relevant licensing standards of
their countries of origin as well as the standards applicable in the Czech
Republic. We believe that due to this modification program Temelin nuclear power
plant has reached a technical level assuring compliance with not only existing
Czech law and IAEA safety recommendations, but also a level comparable with the
standards and recommendations of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission. This
fact was confirmed by several international assessments.
European Monetary Union
The Treaty on European Economic and Monetary Union provides for the introduction
of a single European currency, the euro, in substitution for the national
currencies of the member states of the EU that adopt the euro. The euro became a
reality on January 1, 1999 when irrevocable conversion rates were set between
the national currencies of the 11 member states of the EU that have qualified to
participate, and have elected to participate, in the euro at this time and when
foreign exchange operations in the euro commenced. In the near term, the
introduction of the euro has not had a material effect on our results of
operations, cash flow or financial condition. However, we will continue to
monitor closely developments with respect to the introduction of the euro. In
the long term, however, we believe that adoption of the euro might reduce our
risk exposure to currency exchange fluctuations and the management of foreign
currency risk.
European Union
In March 1998, Czech Republic launched negotiations with the European Union on
becoming a member state of the European Union. The negotiations were
successfully concluded on December 13, 2002 and on April 16, 2003 the Accession
Treaty was signed between the European Council and the Czech Republic. The
treaty was subject to ratification by all member states of the European Union
and all candidate countries. A referendum in the Czech Republic was held on June
13 and 14, 2003 and the citizens of the Czech Republic approved the accession of
the Czech Republic to the European Union. After the completion of the
ratification procedure, the Czech Republic acceded to the European Union on May
1, 2004. Even prior to this date, Czech Republic harmonized many of its laws and
policies with those of the European Union. As the Czech Republic joined the
European Union, it can be expected that gradually more of our laws and
governmental policies will be dependent on the laws and policies formulated on
the European Union level. These laws and policies may in the future influence
the way we conduct our business and the environment in which we conduct it. For
instance, in March 2005 the European Commission announced that it intended to
review the way the EU's energy markets operate. The investigation should look
into how competitive the energy markets are and whether the European Commission
needs to take enforcement action to increase competitiveness. We can give no
assurance that these potential and/or other laws, policies, and enforcement
measures will not adversely affect our business, prospects, financial conditions
or results of operations.
29
ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE
Subsidiaries
The following table sets forth an overview of our equity interests in other
companies, which we include into our consolidated group, as of December 31,
2004:
Equity Interests of CEZ in Other Companies as of December 31, 2004
Country of Registered CEZ's
Company Incorporation Capital(1) CZK '000 Interest in %
- ------- ------------- ------------------- -------------
Subsidiaries
CEZData, s.r.o. Czech Republic 950,000 100.00
CEZnet, a.s. Czech Republic 770,000 100.00
HYDROCEZ, a.s. Czech Republic 449,798 100.00
CEZ Logistika, s.r.o. Czech Republic 200,000 100.00
CEZ Sprava majetku, s.r.o.(2) Czech Republic 150,100 100.00
I & C Energo a.s. Czech Republic 150,000 100.00
Energeticke opravny, a. s. Czech Republic 55,000 100.00
rpg Energiehandel GmbH Germany 45,698 100.00
CEZ Zakaznicke sluzby, s.r.o. Czech Republic 20,000 100.00
EN-DATA a.s. Czech Republic 6,000 100.00
CEZ FINANCE B.V. The Netherlands 553 100.00
Zapadoceska energetika, a.s. Czech Republic 1,605,615 99.13
Vychodoceska energetika, a.s. Czech Republic 2,549,544 98.83
VCE - elektrarny, s.r.o. Czech Republic 198,600 98.83
VCE - montaze, a.s. Czech Republic 78,000 98.83
Stredoceska energeticka a.s. Czech Republic 3,210,369 97.72
Severomoravska energetika, a.s. Czech Republic 3,407,265 89.38
Energetika Vitkovice, a.s. Czech Republic 402,000 89.38
ePRIM, a.s. Czech Republic 50,000 89.38
MSEM, a.s. Czech Republic 154,900 89.38
Union Leasing, a.s. Czech Republic 100,000 89.38
Prvni energeticka a.s. Czech Republic 10,000 87.27
STE - obchodni sluzby spol. s r.o. Czech Republic 38,500 74.42
SKODA PRAHA a.s. Czech Republic 1,257,524 68.88
Severoceska energetika, a.s. Czech Republic 3,257,667 56.93
Ustav jaderneho vyzkumu Rez a.s. Czech Republic 524,139 52.46
Associates
KOTOUC STRAMBERK, spol. s r.o.(3) Czech Republic 569,259 64.87
LOMY MORINA spol. s r.o.(3) Czech Republic 333,000 51.05
Plzenska energetika a.s. Czech Republic 500,000 49.57
KNAUF POCERADY, spol. s r.o. Czech Republic 372,350 40.00
Severoceske doly a.s. Czech Republic 9,000,055 37.20
Aliatel, a.s. Czech Republic 5,474,340 26.40
Coal Energy, a.s. Czech Republic 50,000 20.00
(1) This table sets forth the amount of the registered capital as indicated on
the share registry as of December 31, 2004.
(2) AB Michle s.r.o. was renamed to CEZ Sprava majetku, s.r.o. and was an
associate of CEZ in 2003.
(3) Our voting rights do not reflect our share on the registered capital (see
note 7 to the Consolidated Financial Statements).
PROPERTY, PLANTS AND EQUIPMENT
Coal-Fired Power Plants of CEZ, a.s.
In 2004, CEZ generated 33,666 GWh of electricity in its coal-fired power plants.
Each of its coal-fired power plants is located in the Czech Republic. CEZ's
coal-fired plants have a diversified age profile as indicated in the table
below.
30
CEZ owns and operates the following coal-fired power plants:
Average Load Installed Start of
Factor in 2004 Capacity Operations
-------------- --------- ----------
(MW)
Location
Prunerov I and II............. 57.7 4 x 110 1967-1968
65.8 5 x 210 1981-1982
Tusimice II................... 68.6 4 x 200 1974-1975
Melnik II and III............. 61.4 2 x 110 1971
63.0 1 x 500 1981
Tisova I and II............... 54.0 3 x 57 1959
1 x 12.8 1960
70.5 1 x 112 1961
Hodonin....................... 32.7 1 x 55 1958
1 x 50 1954
Chvaletice.................... 43.7 4 x 200 1977-1978
Detmarovice(1)................ 29.1 4 x 200 1975-1976
Ledvice II.................... 73.2 2 x 110 1966
Ledvice III................... 63.0 1 x 110 1968
Pocerady I and II............. 78.7 5 x 200 1970-1977
Porici(2)..................... 44.2 3 x 55 1957-1958
Dvur Kralove(3)............... 17.8 1 x 6.3 1955
1 x 12 1963
--------
Total installed capacity...... 6,524.1
========
(1) Uses hard coal as fuel.
(2) Uses hard and lignite coal as fuel.
(3) Primarily heat generating plant--included under the Porici power plant
organizational unit.
We sold the Nachod heat generation plant in March 2003. We also intended to
sell the Dvur Kralove heat generation plant but in the end we cancelled the
tender process due to the low bid which we received.
31
Hydroelectric Power Plants of CEZ, a. s.
In 2004, CEZ generated 1,612 GWh of electricity in its hydroelectric plants. CEZ
operates the following hydroelectric power plants. Each of its hydroelectric
power plants is located in the Czech Republic.
Average Load Installed Type of Start of
Factor in 2004 Capacity Plant Operations
-------------- --------- ----- ----------
(MW)
Location
Vrane .................. 35.2 2 x 6.94 Accumulation and 1936
run-of-river
Stechovice 1............ 33.3 2 x 11.25 Accumulation and 1943
run-of-river
Stechovice 2 16.2 1 x 45 Pump Storage 1996
Slapy................... 23.7 3 x 48 Accumulation and 1954
run-of-river
Lipno 1................. 11.3 2 x 60 Accumulation and 1959
run-of-river
Lipno 2 38.4 1 x 1.5 Small-scale hydro plant 1957
Orlik................... 11.3 4 x 91 Accumulation and 1961
run-of-river
Kamyk................... 18.9 4 x 10 Accumulation and 1961
run-of-river
Mohelno................. 60.7 1 x 1.2 Small-scale hydro plant 1977
30.1 1 x 0.56 Small-scale hydro plant 1999
Dalesice................ 7.1 4 x 112.5 Pump Storage 1978
Hnevkovice.............. 31.7 2 x 4.8 Small-scale hydro plant 1992
Korensko 1.............. 27.9 2 x 1.9 Small-scale hydro plant 1992
Korensko 2(1) 24.7 1 x 0.94 Small-scale hydro plant 2000
Zelina(2)............... 43.6 2 x 0.315 Small-scale hydro plant 1993
Dlouhe Strane 1........ 4.7 2 x 325 Pump Storage 1996
Dlouhe Strane 2 30.7 1 x 0.16 Small-scale hydro plant 2000
--------
Total installed capacity......... 1,867.77
========
(1) Included under the Temelin power plant organizational unit.
(2) Included under the Tusimice power plant organizational unit.
We own the dams at the Dalesice, Mohelno, Dlouhe Strane and Zelina power plants
and lease the other dams used at all of our hydroelectric power plants. The
leased dams are owned by the Czech Republic and managed by Povodi Vltavy, a.s.,
a company whose sole shareholder is the Czech Republic. In 1995, we entered into
agreements with Povodi Vltavy, a.s. to lease the dams. The agreements were
concluded for an indefinite period of time and do not permit unilateral
termination. The rent we pay is based on a cost model and is agreed upon
annually for each succeeding year. In 2004, the rent for all dams amounted to
approximately CZK 101 million.
Wind and Solar Power Generation by CEZ, a.s.
CEZ operates three (3) wind power plants with installed electricity generation
capacity 1 x 220 kV, 1 x 315 kV and 1 x 630 kV in the locality of Mravenecnik
near the Dlouhe Strane hydroelectric power plant. In 2004 this wind power plants
generated 478 MWh of electricity.
One solar power plant was installed in October 2003 in the locality of the
nuclear power plant Dukovany with installed electricity generation capacity 1 x
10 kV. This solar power plant was originally installed in the locality of
Mravenecnik.
Nuclear Power Plants of CEZ, a.s.
Each of our two nuclear power plants is located in the Czech Republic.
Dukovany. We own and operate a nuclear power plant at Dukovany, which has a
total installed capacity of 1,760 MW and started operating between 1985 and
1987. In 2004, plant generated 13,632 GWh of electricity. From its initial
operation to December 31, 2004, the Dukovany nuclear plant has generated
approximately 238,028 GWh of electricity at an average load factor/year of
83.27%. In the years 2000 through 2004, the nuclear plant's average load
factor was 87.9%, 88.2%, 86.3%, 89.2% and 88.18 % respectively.
32
Temelin. In 2004 we put into full operation our second nuclear power plant
situated at Temelin. In 2004, we generated 12,692 GWh of electricity at Temelin
nuclear power plant. See "Capital Investments--Nuclear Power Plants" on page 38
and "Nuclear Power Generation" on page 17.
Agreements regarding the construction of the Temelin power plant were concluded
in 1986 with general contractors SKODA PRAHA, a.s. for the delivery of
technology and Vodni stavby Bohemia, a.s. for the delivery of civil part of the
plant. Both of these contracts were initially governed by the now repealed
Economic Code, a law dating back to 1964, under which the contractor had title
to the plant until the contracted performance was rendered in full (i.e., until
the delivery of the completed plant). In mid 1995, we renegotiated the agreement
with SKODA PRAHA, a.s. to be based on the current Commercial Code, under which
we acquire title and ownership to parts of the plant as they are constructed,
and to update the scope of work and estimated cost of the plant. On April 18,
2004, SKODA PRAHA, a.s. delivered Unit 2.
Power Plants of Other Members of Our Consolidated Group
Our power plants are mainly owned and operated by CEZ and these power plants are
discussed in the preceding sections. The following table shows power plants
owned and operated by other members of our consolidated group:
Owner Location Installed Start of
- ----- -------- capacity (MW) operations
------------- ----------
Fossil Plants
Energetika Vitkovice, a.s. Ostrava - Vitkovice 79 1995
Total Fossil Plants 79
- ------------------- --
Accumulation and run-of-river Hydro
Plants
Severoceska energetika, a.s. Strekov 19.5 1936
Small-scale Hydro Plants
VCE - elektrarny, s. r.o. Prelouc 1.75 1927
Spalov 2.4 1926
Hradec Kralove 0.75 1926
Pracov 9.75 1953
Pastviny 3 1938
HYDROCEZ, a.s. Obristvi 3.358 1995
Les Kralovstvi 1.2 1923
Predmerice nad Labem 2.1 1953
Pardubice 1.96 1978
Spytihnev 2.6 1951
Brno - Kninicky 3.1 1941
Veseli nad Moravou 0.27 1914, 1923
Brno - Komin 0.212 1923
Zapadoceska energetika, a.s. Vydra 6.4 1939
Hracholusky 2.55 1959
Ceokova Pila 0.09 1912
Cerne jezero 2 0.04 2004
Pumped Storage Hydro Plants
Zapadoceska energetika, a.s. Cerne jezero 1 1.5 1930
Total Hydro Plants 63
- ------------------ --
Wind Power Plants
Vychodoceska energetika, a.s. Novy Hradek 1.6 2002
Total Wind Power Plants 1.6
- ----------------------- ---
33
Distribution Networks
We operate distribution networks in the Czech Republic, Bulgaria, and we expect
to acquire a distribution network in Romania.
The Czech Republic. Following acquisition of the REAS, our distribution network
is the largest in the Czech Republic. Through the distribution systems of our
REAS, we sell electricity to approximately 3.4 million end customers, or
approximately 62% of all end customers in the Czech Republic. This amounted to
approximately 28.7 TWh of electricity distributed and sold in 2004. As at
December 31, 2004 distribution network of our REAS consisted of a total of 9,492
km of high voltage lines, 49,418 km of medium voltage lines and 94,091 km of low
voltage lines. There are 188 HV/MV transformers stations, 2,947 MV/MV switching
stations and 38,162 distribution ML/LV transformer stations in the area.
Bulgaria. Our distribution companies in Bulgaria have approximately 1.9 million
customers, the overall annual volume of the electricity supplied by them is
approximately 7.6 TWh, and their distribution network consisted of a total of
22,962 km of medium voltage lines and 32,776 km of low-voltage lines. There are
22 HV/MV transformer stations, 54 MV/MV switching stations and 13,874
distribution MV/LV transformer stations in the area.
Romania. Upon expected completion of our acquisition of 51% majority share in
Electrica Oltenia S.A., a major Romanian distribution company, our distribution
network in Romania will consist of a total of 3,537 km of high voltage lines,
19,897 km of medium voltage lines and 27,183 km of low-voltage lines. There are
150 HV/MV transformer stations, 86 MV/MV switching stations and 9,963
distribution MV/LV transformer stations in the area. This network will provide
us with access to approximately 1.4 million customers.
Telecommunications
In October 1999, we established a wholly owned subsidiary, CEZTel, a.s., to own
and operate all of our telecommunications assets and business. We have not yet
contributed our backbone digital network to CEZTel, a.s. consisting of
approximately 2,400 km of fiber optical cable lines connecting all regions of
the Czech Republic, including connections abroad. With the aim of incorporating
a strategic partner to cooperate in the development of CEZTel, a.s. we signed an
option agreement with Vivendi and Vivendi Telecom International on January 20,
2000 pursuant to which we granted them the right, subject to various approvals
of CEZTel, a.s., Vivendi and Vivendi Telecom International, to purchase up to
66% of the share capital of CEZTel, a.s. This option agreement has since expired
and we, together with Vivendi and Vivendi Telecom International, entered into an
option cancellation agreement on June 21, 2001 which eliminated further
obligations on our part under the option agreement.
During the course of 2001 we gradually contributed the telecommunication
activities related to the provision of voice, data and internet services
together with CEZ system integration operated by CEZTel, a.s. to a newly founded
company which has recently changed its name to CEZnet, a.s. We own all of the
issued and outstanding shares of CEZnet, a.s. The core of our development
strategy in respect of CEZnet, a.s. and our telecommunications activities is
focused on:
o completion of the restructuring of our telecommunications assets and
activities;
o relatively large-scale investment into the telecommunications system
and evaluation of the need for further expansion; and
o introduction of quality telecommunications services for businesses in
the CEZ group and the commercial use of reserve telecommunications
capacity.
Title to Land
Under Czech real estate law, in principle the rightful owner of real property is
the person in whose name such real property is registered in the local property
register. Though we believe that we are the rightful owner of all our material
real estate property, due to certain deficiencies in the local property
registration of real estate in the Czech Republic and to certain provisions of
applicable privatization laws, we were not registered as the rightful owner of
all plots of land underlying our generating facilities. We assembled the
necessary data regarding such plots of land and attempted to mend the situation
by procuring proper registration in the property register and by purchasing the
34
relevant plots where desirable. We do not own certain sites that we use to store
of ashes. Where we are not the owners of such sites, we executed a lease
agreement to enable us to use such storage sites.
Our legal predecessor has settled all restitution claims and we are not aware of
any plot of land under our generating facilities that would be materially
affected by a restitution claim. We cannot exclude that a restitution claim
could be filed with respect to the storage sites mentioned above.
Environmental Issues in the Czech Republic
Under Czech law, we are strictly liable for environmental damage that we cause
to agricultural producers and forestry companies. Under Czech environmental
laws, we are obligated to compensate parties for damage related to our business
operations that pollute the environment (as defined in Czech environmental
legislation). In 2004, we paid CZK 4 million in such damage compensation. We are
currently litigating environmental compensation claims in the amount of CZK
153.0 million. In 2004, nine new claims in the aggregate amount of CZK 26.1
million were raised against us with respect to damage caused prior to 2004. The
reduction of emissions has been reflected in a reduction of damages for air
pollution, but other damages for pollution of the environment together with
indemnities claimed by legal entities and individuals managing forests and
farmland represent a financial burden for us. We have accumulated a provision
for future indemnity of damage caused by emissions amounting to CZK 200 million
as of December 2004. We accumulate provisions every year based on the amount of
expected damage payments for such year. We expect that damages claimed from us
by third parties due to air pollution will gradually decrease as a result of the
implementation of the program of decommissioning the pollution sources and
installation of facilities with limited solid and gaseous emission levels.
However, a problematic trend for us has been that courts have tended to allow
damage claims against us even when the concentrations of emissions do not reach
critical levels that could cause damage as set under applicable Czech
environmental laws.
Air Pollution. Pursuant to the Clean Air Act, all sources of air pollution,
including coal-fired power plants, had to comply with a series of progressive
limits between 1996 and 1998 set by the Czech Environmental Inspection. These
limits affect emissions of SO2, NOX, CO, solid pollutants (e.g., fly ash) and
hydrocarbons. We are currently in compliance with all requirements under the
Clean Air Act. As the emission limits set under the Clean Air Act are generally
in accordance with the limits in EU countries, the adoption of more stringent
limits for existing power plants in connection with the possible membership of
the Czech Republic in the EU is not anticipated.
We have a planned program of regular repairs and overhauls for the generating
units to maintain our coal-fired power plants. In some cases, parts of these
units have already been completely reconstructed and modernized and most of them
have been equipped with desulfurization units. Since January 1, 1999, all
coal-fired plant units have been in compliance with the requirements of the
Clean Air Act.
The Clean Air Act empowers the Ministry of Environment to temporarily restrict
emissions from, reduce output of or shut-down certain pollution sources (such as
some of our coal-fired power plants) if overall air pollution levels are
exceeded even if a given pollution source does not exceed applicable limits. In
addition, the Clean Air Act empowers the Czech Environmental Inspection to order
any pollution source exceeding pollution limits to be shut down. The Clean Air
Act requires the operators of pollution sources exceeding a certain size to pay
fees into a special environmental fund, based on the level of emissions released
into the environment, whether or not the emission limits for such company have
been exceeded. In 2004, our expenses for this fund amounted to approximately CZK
118 million.
Water Pollution. We observe all water pollution limits set by government
regulations and applicable water management decisions set by local authorities.
We are preparing, but have yet to implement, changes in our water management
that will enable power plants to comply with anticipated limits to be put into
effect after 2005. In 2004, we paid approximately CZK 17 million to the
environmental fund.
Coal Waste Storage. We have prepared a project aimed at the collection of dry
ash and desulfurization of end-products and their conversion into solids. This
conversion reduces the negative impact of mines on the water table when such
solids are deposited in landfills, open cast mines or disused shafts of existing
mines. The new de-ashing technology used in the power plants allows us to
process the ash and desulfurization end-products into a material with properties
that will permit its deposition into existing mud pits without any further
measures, or to use a portion of such waste as building material. We paid
approximately CZK 387 million for the disposal of dry ash and desulfurization
by-products, including costs for third party services, in 2004.
35
Nuclear Waste Final Disposal. Under the Nuclear Act, the responsibility for
securing the final disposal of nuclear waste, including spent fuel, is the
responsibility of the Repository Authority. We are required to finance the final
disposal through contributions to the Nuclear Account. For a description of
funds contributed, see "Nuclear Provisions" on page 47.
CAPITAL INVESTMENTS
Since enactment of the 1991 Clean Air Act we have undertaken an extensive
capital investment program aimed primarily at minimizing the environmental
effects of electricity generation, including the diversification of power
sources, in order to comply with the Clean Air Act rather than to increase or
diversify electricity production.
Since we were established as a new legal entity in 1992, we have embarked on a
significant capital expenditure program aimed at reducing the environmental
impact of coal-fired electricity generation and complying with Czech
environmental laws designed to meet European Union ("EU") standards. The main
elements of this program were aimed at reducing sulfur emissions at our
coal-fired plants and the continuation of construction and completion of the
Temelin nuclear power plant. We have completed the installation of
desulfurization equipment. As of January 1, 1999, we have been in full
compliance with all Czech environmental laws, some of which are stricter than EU
standards. Both units of Temelin Nuclear Power Station completed their pilot
operation periods in October 2004, when CEZ received final permission from the
Nuclear Safety Authority to operate both units of Temelin.
We have been in compliance with the Clean Air Act since January 1, 1999 and our
electricity generating operation is now at a level comparable to western
European operational environmental standards.
Upon completion of the environmental program, the updated strategic core of our
development is focused on:
o foreign expansion with the aim to become the leader on electricity
markets in central and south-east Europe;
o preparation for next steps in the liberalization of the domestic and
European energy market with the aim of increasing our share of the
domestic electricity market and maintaining our dominant position in
the provision of ancillary services to operators of the transmission
grid;
o renewal of CEZ generation base with focus on performance; we are
preparing a complex renewal of our coal-fired power plant Tusimice II;
o commencement of the modernization of the Dukovany nuclear power plant,
together with its control center and preparation of the construction
(extension) of the interim spent nuclear fuel storage facilities
located at the nuclear plant sites; this process gradually started in
April 2003;
o integration of operations within our group in the Czech Republic and
thereby also complying with the unbundling requirements under Czech
law; and
o evaluation of investment opportunities in the power sector so that we
are able to respond flexibly to developments in demand.
Capital Investment Program Implementation Costs. From 2002 through 2004, we made
investments totaling approximately CZK 50 billion as part of our capital
investment program.
36
The following table sets forth a summary of our capital investments over the
past three years (on a consolidated basis):
Year ended December 31
(in CZK millions)
(consolidated)
2002 2003 2004
---- ---- ----
Additions to tangible fixed assets................... 10,025 11,794 12,422
Out of which: purchase of nuclear fuel............ 1,997 2,220 1,771
Additions to intangible fixed assets................. 339 880 1,276
Additions to financial investment.................... (34) 12,997 212
Change in payables from fixed assets acquisitions.... 89 (1,729) 1,873
------- --------- ----------
Total ...................................... 10,419 23,942 15,783
======= ========= ==========
The following table sets forth a summary of our capital investments (1) over the
past three years (on a standalone basis for CEZ, a.s.):
2002 2003 2004
---- ---- ----
(CZK millions)
(unconsolidated)(2)
Nuclear power plants:
Temelin nuclear power plant construction................. 2,693 1,732 1,004
Dukovany nuclear power plant modernization............... 691 865 1,428
Central interim fuel repository.......................... 44 131 225
Other.................................................... 52 106 191
-------------- ------------- ------------
Total nuclear power plants.......................... 3,480 2,834 2,847
-------------- ------------- ------------
Environmental improvement investments:
Desulfurization.......................................... 57 11 2
Fluidized-bed boilers.................................... - 20 11
Eletrostatic precipitators............................... - - 45
Other.................................................... 9 9 45
-------------- ------------- ------------
Total environmental investments..................... 66 40 102
-------------- ------------- ------------
Waste management.............................................. 463 356 470
Technical improvements........................................ 291 163 486
Heat supply................................................... 30 26 59
Hydroelectric power plants.................................... 6 112 65
Other investments............................................. 1,487 652 919
Total additions to plants, property and equipment...
5,823 4,183 4,948
-------------- ------------- ------------
Purchase of nuclear fuel...................................... 1,997 2,190 1,755
Capitalized interest(3)....................................... 2,037 937 552
Change in payables from fixed assets acquisitions............. 92 182 (231)
-------------- ------------- ------------
Total .............................................. 9,949 7,492 7,024
============== ============= ============
(1) Excluding financial investments.
(2) In order to allow comparison with previous years, this table only contains
data for CEZ, a. s. on a standalone basis. The data contained in this
table is not available on a consolidated basis for 2004 (see preceding
table for data on capital investments which are available on a
consolidated basis).
(3) The amounts represent interest capitalized for IFRS purposes which are in
addition to amounts capitalized under Czech accounting standards.
As of December 31, 2004, the total investment cost for the implementation of
program of CEZ, a. s. from 2005 through 2009 is currently projected to be CZK
105.6 billion. This amount does not include potential future acquisitions of
subsidiaries and associates. The amount of such potential acquisitions could, in
line with our expectations as to our available funds, reach up to CZK 90 billion
for the same period. The actual amount will depend, amongst other things, on the
number of our favorable investment opportunities in the future.
Financing Capital Expenditures. We generally finance our capital expenditures
from loans, the issuance of bonds and cash depending on our cash sources and the
situation on financial markets at the time in question.
37
Compliance with Emission Limits for Air Pollution. The Clean Air Act requires us
to reduce the concentration levels of certain pollutants produced by our
coal-fired power and heating plants and contained in waste gases, including,
without limitation, solid emissions (i.e., fly ash), SO2, NOx, CO and
hydrocarbons, to levels below the law's emission limits. While deciding upon
emission limits, the authorities responsible for air protection took into
account the condition of the environment, the thermal output, the age of the
sources of pollution and technical parameters. The limits were set on a
case-by-case basis.
In order to reduce emissions and meet the Clean Air Act compliance standards we
undertook a specific program directed primarily toward the decommissioning of
obsolete coal-fired power plants and their partial replacement with the new
Temelin nuclear power plant. To date, this process has included the following
efforts:
o construction of desulfurization and denitrification units;
o reconstruction of electrostatic precipitators;
o increase efficiency of fossil fuel-fired power plants;
o installation of new combustion technologies;
o use of lower-sulfur coal; and
o decommissioning of selected coal-fired power plant units.
Construction of Flue Gas Desulfurization Facilities. The construction of flue
gas desulfurization units has been an important part of our environmental
program. As of December 31, 2004, desulfurization units were in operation at
five 200 MW units of the Pocerady power plant, four 110 MW units of the Prunerov
I power plant, five 210 MW units in the Prunerov II power plant, two 110 MW
units of the Ledvice power plant, four 200 MW units of the Tusimice II power
plant, four 200 MW units of the Chvaletice power plant, one 100 MW unit of the
Tisova power plant , four 200 MW units of the Detmarovice power plant, two 110
MW units of the Melnik II power plant and one 500 MW unit of the Melnik III
power plant, accounting for a capacity of 5,930 MW out of our total coal-fired
capacity of approximately 6,603 MW for the whole group, or 6,524 MW for CEZ.
Construction of Fluidized-Bed Combustion Boilers. In addition to the
construction of desulfurization facilities, we have replaced the existing
boilers of certain smaller 55 MW and 100-110 MW units by modern boilers with the
circulating fluidized-bed combustion technology, which reduces sulfur dioxide
emissions by adding limestone during the combustion process. As of December 31,
2004, we completed the installation of two new fluidized-bed boilers with a
capacity of 350 t/h at Tisova I, two boilers with a capacity of 170 t/h at the
Hodonin power plant, two boilers with a capacity of 250 t/h at the Porici power
plant and one boiler with a capacity of 350 t/h at the Ledvice power plant. FBBs
installed represent electric power capacity of 497 MW.
Solid Emissions and NO(X). The levels of solid emissions from coal-fired power
plants have been reduced as a result of the implementation of a long-term
program of refurbishment and replacement of electrostatic precipitators started
as early as the 1970s. A program of combustion process optimization through the
adjustment of burners and the control of the combustion air supply into the
boilers is aimed at reducing nitrogen oxide emission levels.
Nuclear Power Plants
Temelin Nuclear Power Plant. Our most important capital investment project in
last years was the construction of a second nuclear power plant at Temelin in
South Bohemia. As of December 31, 2004, approximately CZK 97.2 billion had been
invested in the Temelin nuclear power plant. For a discussion of some of the
risks associated with Temelin, see "Risk Factors" on page 9.
The construction of the Temelin nuclear power plant commenced in 1986. According
to the original project, the power plant was to have four Soviet designed units
with a capacity of 1,000 MW each.
Following the Velvet Revolution in 1989, and as a result of an ensuing
uncertainty with respect to the energy policy of the Czech Republic,
construction of the Temelin nuclear power plant was delayed. In March 1993, the
government approved the completion of two out of the originally planned four
units and at the same time ordered a fundamental change in the design of the
reactor, primarily to enhance operational safety of the nuclear power plant.
This change consisted of adapting the existing installed Soviet plant technology
to function with western instrumentation and control systems. Following the
decision to fundamentally change the design, we launched a tender and selected
Westinghouse to supply the instrumentation and control technology as well as the
nuclear fuel to be used at Temelin. Other contracts have been concluded
concerning additional technology needed for the completion of the power plant.
The adaptation of U.S. technology supplied by Westinghouse to the original
Soviet
38
plant construction at Temelin is the first such adaptation of its kind
and, accordingly, has posed and continues to pose difficult technical challenges
beyond what had been anticipated in 1993. As a result of extensive design and
construction changes, the estimated completion date for Temelin has been delayed
several times.
At the time of the government's decision in 1993, we estimated that fuel loading
of the first unit of the power plant could take place at the end of 1995, with
commercial operation commencing eight months later, and that the total
investment costs would amount to CZK 68.8 billion. By year end 1994, as a result
of the technical difficulties with the compatibility of U.S. and Soviet
technologies becoming more apparent, we changed our estimate of the date of fuel
loading of the first unit to September 1996. In early 1995, we announced a
further delay of fuel loading to June 1997. In mid 1995, at the time the
contract with SKODA PRAHA, a.s was renegotiated, we performed an extensive
review of the required design and technical modifications. As a result, we
revised the budgeted cost of the plant to CZK 76 billion with fuel loading to
commence in fall of 1997--both subject to final design changes and contract
modifications.
In June 1996, we announced that the envisaged date of initial fuel loading of
the first unit was likely to be further delayed until mid 1998, again because
the design changes resulted in unanticipated and further modifications necessary
to make the original project safety standards meet U.S. standards. This delay
had arisen, in particular, with regard to cabling, the control system and the
primary circuit auxiliary systems. At year-end 1996, the budgeted cost for
Temelin remained constant at CZK 76 billion. Analysis of the construction
schedule shortly after year end, however, indicated that further delays and
design changes would be required. At that time additional costs were estimated
to be up to CZK 10 billion.
In August 1998, the Czech government commissioned an independent review of the
Temelin project and, inter-alia, the expended and projected cost, financing,
existing supply contracts, the risks jeopardizing the completion, social impact
and alternative power supply solutions. The report made no clear recommendation
on whether to complete or discontinue the construction. The report emphasized
risk factors, particularly in relation to future developments in electricity
demand in the Czech Republic. On the basis of this report the Czech cabinet
decided on May 14, 1999 by a vote of eleven ministers to eight to proceed with
the construction of both units of the Temelin nuclear power plant. However,
government approval was conditioned on the budgeted cost not exceeding CZK 98.6
billion and the two blocks being loaded with fuel by September 2000 and December
2001, respectively.
In July 2000, we loaded Unit 1 of Temelin with nuclear fuel and in October 2000
we essentially completed construction on Unit 1 with initial nuclear reaction
and testing activities beginning shortly thereafter. In January 2001 we
connected the generator from Unit 1 of Temelin to the electricity network and
test transmitted the first electricity from Temelin to the transmission network.
By March 2001 we had brought Unit 1 up to 30% of its production capacity. During
the month of March 2001, we brought Unit 1 to 55% of its capacity and did so
again in early October 2001. In mid-October, after receiving approval from the
Nuclear Safety Authority, we performed tests at 75% of Unit 1's capacity. In
January 2002, we continued the energy generation start-up process of Unit 1 that
had been commenced in November 2000 and proceeded to the start-up up to 100% of
the nominal power output of the reactor. This phase was prolonged by delivery of
new armatures and the necessary shut-down for the performance of the work
connected with the replacement of the armatures. Following tests at a power
output level of 100% and the completion of a 144-hour comprehensive testing
process, Unit 1 obtained approval for pilot operation, which commenced on June
11, 2002. At the end of January 2003, a planned two-month shut-down commenced in
connection with the replacement of one quarter of the fuel. After the inspection
by IAEA and the Nuclear Safety Authority of the correctness of the delivery of
fuel into the reactor's active zone and the deposition of spent fuel into the
storage pool for spent fuel, the warranty-inspection was completed at the end of
April 2003 and the pilot operation continues. In 2004 testing operation
continued. In July 2004 a planned outage (extended complete overhaul) was
effected during which, amongst other things, refueling and fuel check was
accomplished. The unit again reached the nominal output on July 18, 2004. During
2004 Unit 1 generated 6,015 GWh of electricity. In October 2004, Nuclear Safety
Authority issued a resolution permitting the plant to operate both Unit 1 and
Unit 2.
In early 2002, the phase of non-active testing of Unit 2 was completed, a review
after an integrated hydro-test was performed, and preparatory work for active
testing was completed. In March, the Nuclear Safety Authority issued a permit
for the commencement of active testing. Following the delivery of fuel, the
reactor was closed and preparatory work and testing for the first activation of
fuel was performed in May 2002. At the end of June 2002, following successful
physical start-up, the phase of energy-generation start-up commenced. In the
course of this phase, repeated defects appeared in the generator rotor. We had
the generator rotor repaired, the defects were mended and there are no further
consequences for the operation of Unit 2. The first turbo-generator phasing did
not take place until December 29, 2002, during a sub-phase when the reactor was
run up to a level of 55% of its nominal
39
power output. Pilot testing operation of the block commenced on April 18, 2003.
In February 2004, Unit 2 was shut down for planned guarantee repair and the
first refueling was accomplished. The guarantee repair, amongst other things,
implemented modifications, reconstructions of equipment and systems for increase
of reliability as well as planned changes in accordance with the requirements of
the supervising authorities. The unit generated 6,677 GWh of electricity in
2004.
The contract with SKODA PRAHA, a.s. was revised and amended to reflect the
increased costs and fuel loading dates on June 10, 1998. Since July 1999 the
Ministry of Industry and Trade, with the personal participation of Minister
Gregr (at that time the head of the Ministry of Industry and Trade), has
conducted monthly reviews of the progress of the Temelin project focusing on the
completion timetable, meeting the projected cost estimate and satisfying the
conditions necessary for licensing the Temelin nuclear plant and bringing it
into operation. Further, we performed hot tests of Unit 1 at the beginning of
April 2000 and conducted a general review of the control system. The budgeted
investment cost to construct Temelin is currently CZK 98.6 billion and this
amount is final. We may also incur other testing and adjustment costs but these
costs will be accounted for as operational expenses. As a result of past
experience, however, we cannot assure that further increases in costs will not
occur. Further associated additional costs may arise, for example, from (i)
changes necessitated by tests performed during the trial operations of the power
plant, and (iii) requirements of supervisory bodies. For example, while
assembling the turbine for the secondary circuit for Temelin's Unit 1 we
discovered certain technical problems that we have subsequently eliminated.
However, we can give no assurance that these difficulties or any other
difficulties that arise during testing or otherwise will not adversely affect
our business, prospects, financial condition or results of operations.
We can provide no assurance that the operation of Temelin will not be
interrupted as a result of events beyond the control of management. We can
provide no assurance that any such interruptions will not adversely affect our
business, prospects, financial condition or results of operations.
Dukovany Nuclear Power Plant. We have initiated a study assessing the
possibility of the extension of the operating life of units at the Dukovany
nuclear power plant beyond 2015/2018, the current operating life. The results of
this initial study show that it is technically possible to extend the operating
life of the Dukovany units.
We have been improving the safety standards at the Dukovany power plant in
accordance with the requirements of the Nuclear Safety Authority and in respect
of further operation. In 2004, we spent approximately CZK 18 billion on all
modifications. As part of our modernization program we have also been
progressively implementing recommendations resulting from domestic and foreign
technical audits, including recommendations by the International Atomic Energy
Agency, including, among others, introducing:
o a multi-function and full scope simulator;
o a main condenser tube exchange using titanium;
o emergency feedwater pumps;
o pump suction filters;
o bus switchboards; and
o vital power system reconstruction.
Additionally, we have implemented measures to improve the economy of operation
and to extend the life of the main components of the production equipment
including, among others, increasing the efficiency of the main condenser,
improvement of the secondary circuit and up-rating the turbo-generator.
In 1996, a pre-feasibility study was started for a refurbishment of the
instrumentation and control system (I&C) at the Dukovany power plant to improve
its reliability and to prolong the plant operation. During the course of 1998,
we continued to carry out work related to the development of this project and
invited bids for the first stage of implementation in 1999. In September 2000,
we signed an agreement with SKODA JS for the complete refurbishment of the major
parts of the I&C system at the Dukovany power plant. The current project
timetable anticipates an initiation of the refurbishment by 2002 and lasting
until approximately 2010 with a budgeted cost of approximately CZK 7 billion.
Because this refurbishment is being implemented in the course of standard
refueling outages, we do not expect any additional loss of energy production. In
2004, Unit 3 (the unit first to be upgraded) was equipped with further part of
process computer which was then put into standard operation, and the last part
of new safety systems which were put into parallel operation in open-loop. On
Unit 1 and 2 the preparatory work and amendments of field instrumentation
continued. The refurbishment of Instrumentation and Control System of Unit 4 is
planned for 2006, and the preparatory works on the project continued in 2004 in
accordance with respective time schedule.
40
Nuclear Provisions. We are responsible for, and have established provisions for,
decommissioning of our nuclear power plants. The most recent decommissioning
study commissioned by us and verified by the Nuclear Safety Authority in 2003
estimates costs for decommissioning of Dukovany nuclear power plant at CZK 16.4
billion at 2002 price levels (compared to a 1997 estimate of CZK 12.5 billion at
1996 price levels). A 2004 decommissioning study commissioned by us and verified
by the Nuclear Safety Authority estimates that decommissioning of Temelin will
cost approximately CZK 13.7 billion at 2004 price levels (compared to previous
estimate of CZK 11.1 billion at 1998 price levels). An updated study will be
produced periodically in 5 year interval as current legislation requires.
Pursuant to the Nuclear Act, our provisions for the decommissioning of nuclear
plants calculated in accordance with Czech accounting principles have been
tax-deductible since October 1, 1997. We are required to contribute appropriate
funds annually to a special escrow account to cover the future decommissioning
costs. These funds are designated for decommissioning purposes and can be used
only with the permission of the Repository Authority.
In addition, we have provided for the estimated costs to cover interim storage
and the final disposal of spent fuel. The Nuclear Act provides that the Czech
Republic, through the Repository Authority, is responsible for the final
disposal of spent fuel and nuclear waste, and that we must pay certain
contributions into the Nuclear Account. Our payments to the Nuclear Account
amounted to approximately CZK 1,316 million in 2004. We are responsible for the
interim storage of spent fuel.
We have recorded the provisions for decommissioning, interim and final spent
fuel storage in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards. For
a detailed description of the accounting treatment of these provisions, see
notes 2.23 and 14 to our Consolidated Financial Statements. For 2004 in respect
of the nuclear provisions cited above, we charged to income CZK 1,965 million as
a separate component of interest expense and CZK 203 million as fuel expense. In
2004, we charged CZK 1,383 million of current nuclear-related expenditures
against our accumulated provision for nuclear decommissioning and fuel storage.
In 2004, we revised the estimates of provisions for spent fuel storage and
charged CZK 44 million to other operating expenses as a result. Based on revised
the estimates of provisions for decommissioning and final fuel storage we added
CZK 536 million to fixed asset and the provisions.
ITEM 5. OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS
In this section, we explain our general financial condition and the results of
our operations. As you read the following discussion and analysis, you should
refer to our Consolidated Financial Statements and the related notes thereto for
fiscal years 2002, 2003 and 2004 contained in Item 18 of this Annual Report. We
prepare our consolidated financial statements in accordance with International
Financial Reporting Standards which differ in certain respects from U.S. GAAP.
See Note 30 to the consolidated financial statements, included elsewhere in
this Annual Report for a discussion of the principal material differences
between IFRS and U.S. GAAP as they relate to us which apply to our Consolidated
Financial Statements.
Forward-Looking Statements
For a discussion regarding forward-looking statements, see "Forward-Looking
Statements" in the front of this Annual Report under the heading "General
Information."
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES
International Financial Reporting Standards
Our accounts are initially maintained in accordance with Czech Accounting
Standards and for reporting purposes are transformed to International Financial
Reporting Standards, or IFRS. IFRS represent our primary reporting standards.
This requires the managers to adopt those accounting policies, which are most
appropriate for the purpose of the accounts giving a true and fair view.
Our material accounting policies are set out in full in note 2 to our
consolidated financial statements. In preparing the accounts in conformity with
IFRS, our management is required to make estimates and assumptions which impact
on the reported amounts of revenues, expenses, assets and liabilities. Actual
results may differ from these estimates. Certain of our accounting policies have
been identified as the most critical accounting policies by considering which
policies involve particularly complex or subjective decisions or assessments and
these are discussed below. The discussion below should be read in conjunction
with the full statement of accounting policies.
Accounting developments
The International Accounting Standards Board, or IASB, has and will continue to
critically examine current International Financial Reporting Standards, or IFRS,
with a view toward increasing international harmonization of accounting rules.
This process of amendment and convergence of worldwide accounting rules resulted
in significant amendments to the existing rules from January 1, 2005 in such
areas as the accounting for share-based compensation, goodwill and intangibles,
marketable securities and derivative financial instruments as well as the
classification of certain income statement and balance sheet positions. These
are discussed in more detail in note 2 to our consolidated financial statements.
Nuclear Provisions
Our nuclear provisions principally relate to the cost of final and interim
storage of spent fuel and the cost of decommissioning our nuclear power
stations.
The provisions recognized represent the best estimate of the expenditures
required to settle the present obligation at the current balance sheet date. In
accordance with IFRS, the initial estimated costs of decommissioning our power
plants are provided for when the power stations begin operating commercially and
are capitalized as part of the cost of construction and depreciated over the
same lives as the plants. The estimated costs of decommissioning are discounted
to reflect the timescale before and during which the work will take place
(following closure of the power station). Each year, the provisions are
increased to reflect the accretion of discount and to accrue an estimate for the
effects of inflation, with the charges being recognized as a component of
interest expense. We anticipate that after de-fuelling the reactors, dismantling
the reactors will not be possible for at least 50 years after the closure of the
relevant power station.
In 2004 we adopted IFRIC Interpretation 1, Changes in Existing Decommissioning,
Restoration and Similar Liabilities ("IFRIC 1"). Following the interpretation,
changes in the measurement of an existing decommissioning, restoration and
similar liability that result from changes in the estimated timing or amount of
the outflow of resources embodying economic benefits required to settle the
obligation, or a change in the discount rate are added to, or deducted from, the
cost of the related asset in the current period. Prior to application of IFRIC 1
in 2004 we followed a different accounting policy, under which the changes in a
decommissioning liability that resulted from a change in the current best
estimate of cash flows required to settle the obligation or a change in the
discount rate were added to (or deducted from) the amount recognized as the
related asset to the extent the change related to
41
future periods. To the extent the change related to the current or prior
periods, it was reported as income or expense for the current period.
The estimated costs are based on decommissioning studies that are approved by
the Nuclear Safety Authority and the Repository Authority. The studies are
updated regularly to reflect changes in the estimates. We must make annual
payments to a special escrow account to cover future decommissioning costs.
These payments depend on the estimated decommissioning costs, the estimated time
of decommissioning and other factors. If these factors change, our annual
payments can change in the future.
Estimated costs of final storage of spend fuel are based on expected annual
payments to Nuclear Account. The payments are approved by the authorities and
are done in cash. The estimated cash payments include inflation considerations
because these payments will not be done for many years. The estimated payments
are discounted using the estimated risk free rate. The required annual payments
are reviewed by the authorities each year and therefore they can change in the
future.
Accounting lifetimes of our nuclear power stations reflect our current
assessment of potential life limiting technical factors and independent
engineering assessments. The operating lifetime of a nuclear power station is
limited principally by the lifetime of items, which are uneconomical to replace
such as the boiler and other components inside the reactor pressure vessel. The
methodologies and technology used to evaluate the expected lifetimes of nuclear
stations is dynamic, resulting in progressively improved measurement
capabilities that allow us to determine whether the safety case for an extended
accounting life of a nuclear power station can be supported. The estimates of
station accounting lives are therefore subjective.
The actual provisions can vary significantly from our estimate, and as a result,
the liabilities we report in our results can vary significantly if our
assessment of these costs changes. Many of the factors that are integral to the
determination of our estimate, such as governmental regulations and inflation,
are beyond our control.
Derivatives
IAS 39, Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, requires every
derivative instrument (including certain derivative instruments embedded in
other contracts) to be recorded in the balance sheet as either an asset or
liability measured at its fair value. IAS 39 requires any changes in the
derivative's fair value to be currently recognized in earnings, unless specific
hedge accounting criteria are met.
For the purpose of hedge accounting, hedges are classified as either fair value
hedges when they hedge the exposure to changes in the fair value of a recognized
asset or liability; or cash flow hedges where they hedge exposure to variability
in cash flows that is either attributable to a particular risk associated with a
recognized asset or liability or a forecasted transaction.
For fair value hedges the gain or loss from remeasuring the hedging instrument
at fair value is recognized immediately in the income statement. Any gain or
loss on the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk is adjusted against the
carrying amount of the hedged item and recognized in the income statement. Where
the adjustment is to the carrying amount of a hedged interest-bearing financial
instrument, the adjustment is amortized to the net profit and loss such that it
is fully amortized by maturity.
In case of cash flow hedges, the effective portion of changes in the fair value
of derivatives that are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges are
recognized in equity. The gain or loss relating to the ineffective portion is
recognized in the income statement. Amounts accumulated in equity are recycled
in the income statement in the periods when the hedged item will affect profit
or loss.
The fair value of derivatives is estimated using valuation models. The use of
valuation models requires making assumptions and estimates regarding the
volatility of underlying and inputs of market data, such as currency rates,
interest rate curves, etc. Results of the valuation models could differ
significantly from values obtained from other valuation models because of
different assumptions, estimates and market data used in those models.
42
Deferred tax
We have significant deferred tax assets and liabilities which are expected to be
realized through the statement of income over extended periods of time in the
future. In calculating the deferred tax items, we are required to make certain
assumptions and estimates retarding the future tax consequences attributable to
differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities as recorded
in the consolidated financial statements and their tax basis. Significant
assumptions made include the expectation that:
o future operating performance for subsidiaries will be consistent with
historical operating results; o recoverability periods for tax credits and net
operating loss carryforwards will not change; and o existing tax laws and rates
which we are subject to will remain unchanged into the foreseeable future.
We believe that we have used prudent assumptions and feasible tax planning
strategies in developing the deferred tax balances. However, any changes to the
facts and circumstances underlying the assumptions could cause significant
change in the deferred tax balances and resulting volatility in its operating
results.
Impairment of assets
We undertake periodic reviews of the carrying value of our fixed assets compared
with the economic value and net realizable value of those assets. In carrying
out the economic valuations an assessment is made of the future cash flows being
generated by the assets, taking into account current and expected future market
conditions and the expected lives of our power stations. In assessing the value
we primary take production capacity as aggregate unit. The assessment of future
market conditions includes, for example, a view of likely overcapacity in the
market over a number of years and the likely timing of the market returning to
new entrant prices. The actual outcome can vary significantly from our future
forecasts, thereby affecting our assessment of expected future cash flows. The
expected future cash flows are discounted at a rate approximating to our
weighted average cost of capital, as this is the rate most representative of
those assets. A provision is created against an asset if its net realizable
value is lower than the carrying amount.
43
OPERATING RESULTS
Volume of Supplied Electricity
(GWh)
Year ended December 31,
-----------------------
2002 2003 2004
---- ---- ----
Generated in-house (gross)........................... 54,118 61,399 62,126
Other purchasing for resale.......................... 2,018 13,983 11,625
Purchased from OTE*.................................. 900 1,009 489
Purchased to cover own consumption................... 18 21 11
Purchased outside the Czech Republic................. 1,338 919 2,129
------------ ---------- -----------
Total............................................. 58,392 77,331 76,380
============ ========== ===========
Revenues
(CZK millions)
Year ended December 31,
-----------------------
2002 2003 2004
---- ---- ----
Electricity revenues:
Sales to distribution companies..................... 39,230 19,843 13,541
Sales to end customers through distribution network. - 36,590 53,492
Sales to traders.................................... 2,010 1,592 5,172
Exports of electricity, including trade outside the
Czech Republic .................................. 10,143 13,296 10,309
Revenues capitalized during construction............ (1,373) - -
Other domestic sales of electricity................. 2,928 3,893 4,943
Sales of ancillary services......................... - 4,334 5,291
------------- ------------ ------------
Total electricity revenues....................... 52,938 79,548 92,748
Heat revenues....................................... 1,673 1,833 1,883
Other revenues...................................... 967 3,435 5,534
------------- ------------ ------------
Total revenues................................... 55,578 84,816 100,165
============= ============ ============
* Operator trhu s elektrinou, a. s. (Electricity Market Operator)
The structure of our revenues and expenses was influenced by a major change in
the structure of our consolidated group since April 2003. Since April 2003 five
distribution companies (REAS) have been fully consolidated into our consolidated
financial statements (among other relevant subsidiaries). On the other hand,
CEPS, a.s. was fully consolidated into our consolidated financial statements
only for the first quarter of 2003. For more information on consolidation of the
financial results see the Consolidated Financial Statements prepared in
accordance with IFRS.
Revenues. In 2003, our total revenues were approximately CZK 84.8 billion, an
increase of 52.6% from 2002. This increase of approximately CZK 29.2 billion was
primarily due to increase of sales to end customers through five distribution
companies (REAS) amounting to CZK 36.6 billion. On the other hand, the sales to
distribution companies decreased by CZK 19.4 billion due to elimination of
intercompany sales to the five newly acquired distribution companies in the
period from April to December 2003. Exports of electricity increased by CZK 3.2
billion, from which CZK 3.2 billion relates to CEZ only. The sales of ancillary
services in 2003 represent sales to CEPS, a.s. in the period from April to
December 2003, i.e. after the sale of the majority stake in CEPS, a.s. on April
1, 2003. These sales have been eliminated in prior periods as intercompany
transactions. In 2004, our total revenues were approximately CZK 100.2 billion,
an increase of 18.1% from 2003. This increase of approximately CZK 15.3 billion
was primarily the result of increase of electricity sales by CZK 13.2 billion.
Total exports decreased by CZK 3.0 billion. Electricity sales to distribution
companies we do not control decreased by CZK 6.3 billion. Sales to end customers
through our distribution grid (five REAS owned by CEZ) rose by 46.2% to CZK 53.5
billion. The main reason for this increase was the expansion of CEZ group as of
April 1, 2003, which resulted in consolidation of our REAS in our group for
three quarters in 2003 and their consolidation for the full year in 2004.
In 2003, our total revenues from electricity sold were approximately CZK 79.5
billion, an increase of 50.3% above the 2002 level as the result of primarily to
enlargement of our consolidated group. Electricity sold by our Company in the
Czech Republic increased from 36.2 TWh in 2002 to 48.9 TWh in 2003 (by 34.9%),
while exports increased to 19.2 TWh, an increase by 3.2 TWh (20.1%). In 2004,
our total revenues from electricity sold were approximately
44
CZK 92.7 billion, an increase of 16.6% over the 2003 level, primarily as a
result of the first-time consolidation of our REAS for the full year in 2004.
Sales of electricity by our group in the Czech Republic increased by 11.9% to
54.7 TWh. Exports of electricity decreased by 8.3 TWh to 11.0 TWh (by 43.0%),
but this decrease was in portion compensated by sales to traders for the
purposes of export in the amount of 5.9 TWh.
In 2003, our revenues from sales of heat were approximately CZK 1.8 billion, an
increase of 9.6% from 2002. The amount of heat sold increased by 14.6% in 2003
from 2002 levels. The increase of revenues from sales of heat in 2003 was
primarily due to the enlargement of our consolidated group. However, the
declining trend in heat demand seen in previous years continued, driven in
particular by improvements in building insulation. In 2004, our revenues from
sales of heat were approximately CZK 1.9 billion, an increase of 2.7% from 2003.
The amount of heat sold decreased by 8.5% in 2004 from 2003 levels. The increase
of revenues from sales of heat in 2004 was primarily due to higher revenues at
Energetika Vitkovice, a.s.
In 2003, other revenues amounted to approximately CZK 3.4 billion, an increase
of 255% above 2002. The year-on-year increase of CZK 2.5 billion was caused by
newly consolidated companies, which contributed CZK 2.6 billion to the increase.
In 2004, other revenues amounted to approximately CZK 5.5 billion, an increase
in comparison with the level of 2003.
Operating Expenses
(CZK millions)
Year ended December 31,
-----------------------
2002 2003 2004
-------- ---- ----
Fuel..................................................... 12,894 14,307 14,370
Purchased power and related services..................... 7,328 21,100 26,511
Repairs and maintenance.................................. 3,847 4,226 4,420
Depreciation and amortization............................ 11,721 16,961 18,384
Salaries and wages....................................... 3,854 7,994 9,644
Material and supplies.................................... 1,838 3,670 3,769
Other operating expenses................................. 2,873 3,554 3,912
------------ ---------- -----------
Total operating expenses.............................. 44,355 71,812 81,010
============ ========== ===========
Operating Expenses. In 2003, our total operating expenses were approximately CZK
71.8 billion, an increase of 61.9% from 2002. The year-on year increase of CZK
27.5 billion was primarily the result of the enlargement of our consolidated
group. In 2004, our total operating expenses were approximately CZK 81.0
billion, an increase of 12.8% from 2003.
In 2003, the cost of fuel consumption was approximately CZK 14.3 billion, an
increase of 11.0% from 2002 due to increased electricity production (mainly in
nuclear power plants). In 2004, the cost of fuel consumption was approximately
CZK 14.4 billion, an increase of 0.4% from 2003.
In 2003, our purchase of power and related services amounted to approximately
CZK 21.1 billion, an increase of 188% from 2002 was mainly due to the
enlargement of our consolidated group, in opposite the purchases of power and
related services by previously consolidated companies decreased by CZK 1.9
billion. In 2004, our purchase of power and related services amounted to
approximately CZK 26.5 billion, an increase of 25.6% from 2003 mainly due to
purchase of electricity from producers for resale (increase of CZK 1.4 billion)
and due to purchase of services related to sale of electricity (increase of CZK
2.8 billion).
In 2003, costs for repairs and maintenance amounted to approximately CZK 4.2
billion, an increase of 9.9% from 2002 primarily due to the enlargement of our
consolidated group. In 2004, costs for repairs and maintenance amounted to
approximately CZK 4.4 billion, an increase of 4.6% from 2003. The increase is
approximately CZK 0.2 billion.
In 2003, depreciation and amortization expenses amounted to approximately CZK
17.0 billion an increase of 44.7% from 2002 primarily due to both enlargement of
our consolidated group (CZK 3.3 billion) and commissioning of the second unit of
the Temelin nuclear power plant in 2003. The depreciation and amortization of
Temelin increased the total sum of this item by CZK 2.8 billion. In 2004,
depreciation and amortization expenses amounted to approximately CZK 18.4
billion an increase of 8.4% from 2003 when depreciation of buildings reached CZK
4.1 billion and depreciation of plant and equipment totaled CZK 13.5 billion.
45
In 2003, salaries and wages expenses were CZK 8.0 billion, an increase of 107%
from 2002. The biggest portion of increase in salaries and wages expenses is
attributable to the newly consolidated companies. In 2004, salaries and wages
expenses were CZK 9.6 billion, an increase of 20.6% from 2003 also due to
enlargement of our group.
In 2003, our materials and supplies expenses were approximately CZK 3.7 billion,
an increase of 99.7% from 2002. There was only insignificant increase of
materials and supplies expense related to companies consolidated in 2002. In
2004, our materials and supplies expenses were approximately CZK 3.8 billion, an
increase of 2.7% from 2003.
In 2003, our other operating expenses were approximately CZK 3.6 billion, an
increase of 23.7% from 2002. This increase was mainly due to growth of expenses
for services by CZK 1.4 billion, which was compensated by decrease of other
expenses by CZK 0.7 billion, especially capitalization of material, goods and
services. In 2004, our other operating expenses which include environmental
charges and claims and purchased services, among other things, were
approximately CZK 3.9 billion, an increase of 10.1% from 2003.
Income before Other Expense (Income) and Income Taxes. In 2003, our income
before other expense (income) and income taxes amounted to approximately CZK
13.0 billion, an increase of 15.9% from 2002. The increase of approximately CZK
1.8 billion was a result of an increase in operating expenses by CZK 27.5
billion accompanied by an increase in revenues by CZK 29.2 billion. Large
increases in both expenses and revenues are due to the enlargement of our
consolidated group. The increase in operating expenses was further influenced by
nuclear power station changes, i.e. the introduction of both units of the
Temelin nuclear power plant into trial operation (increase in depreciation by
CZK 2.8 billion). In 2004, our income before other expense (income) and income
taxes amounted to approximately CZK 19.2 billion, an increase of 47.3% from
2003. The increase of approximately CZK 6.2 billion was a result of an increase
in operating revenues by CZK 15.3 billion accompanied by an increase in
operating expenses by CZK 9.2 billion.
Other Expense (Income). In 2003, other expense/income (net) amounted to
approximately CZK 2.3 billion. The deterioration compared to 2002 is mainly due
to higher interest expense, net of capitalized interest by CZK 1.1 billion,
lower foreign currency exchange gains by CZK 1.4 billion, and due to increase in
other expenses by CZK 0.9 billion. An increase in income from associates by CZK
0.6 billion, i.e. by 114% had a positive impact on the other expenses (income).
In 2004, other expenses/income (net), which include interest on debt, net of
capitalized interest, interest on nuclear provisions, interest income, foreign
exchange rate losses/gains, other expenses, and income from our associates,
amounted to approximately CZK 1.2 billion.
Income Taxes. In 2003, income taxes amounted to approximately CZK 1.3 billion, a
decrease of 60.0% from 2002. Our effective corporate income tax rate in 2002,
2003 and 2004 was 29%, 13%, and 21% respectively. In 2004, income taxes amounted
to approximately CZK 3.8 billion, an increase of 185% from 2003. This increase
was primarily a result of higher profits and substantially lower effective tax
rate in 2003, when company claimed a capital investment deduction of CZK 1.0
billion.
Net Income. In 2003, net income amounted to approximately CZK 8.9 billion, an
increase of 5.3% (CZK 0.5 billion) from 2002. This improvement was mainly due to
lower income tax by CZK 2.0 billion. In 2004, net income amounted to
approximately CZK 13.1 billion, an increase of 47.2% (CZK 4.2 billion) from
2003. This improvement was due to substantially higher profits before income
taxes by CZK 7.2 billion, despite higher income taxes by CZK 2.5 billion and
higher minority interests by CZK 0.5 billion.
Earnings per common share were, CZK 14.3, CZK 15.0 and CZK 22.1 in fiscal years
2002, 2003 and 2004 respectively, representing an increase of 5.2% in 2003 and
an increase of 46.9% in 2004.
Inflation
The rates of inflation on an annual average basis in the Czech Republic during
2002, 2003 and 2004 were 1.8%, 0.1%, and 2.8% respectively. The effects of
inflation on our operations have not been significant in recent years.
Other
For a discussion of the impact of currency fluctuations on our business and
hedging or other mechanisms that we use, see "Item 11. Quantitative and
Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk" on page 69.
46
For a discussion on government economic, fiscal, monetary and political policies
or factors that have or could materially affect our operations, see "Risk
Factors" on page 9 and "Economic, Fiscal, Monetary or Political Policies or
Factors Which Impact Our Business" on page 24.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
We expect our principal capital requirements to consist of the following:
o commencement of the modernization of the Dukovany nuclear power plant,
together with its instrumentation and control center;
o preparation of the construction (extension) of the interim spent
nuclear fuel storage facilities located at our nuclear plant sites;
o participation in investment opportunities in the power sector in
central and south-east Europe so that we are able to respond flexibly
to developments in demand;
o investments in subsidiaries, especially into distribution grid and
automated switching equipment that substantially improves outage
times; and
o investments to replace our aging brown-coal-fired power plants (at
least in the amount of two-thirds of the present installed capacity of
such power plants) after the year 2010. At that time, the present
power plants will be at the end of their useful lives and consequently
they will be replaced by newer, more efficient plants.
Historically, our liquidity requirements have arisen primarily from the need to
fund capital expenditures for the expansion of our business and for our working
capital requirements. We expect to continue to incur substantial additional
capital expenditures in order to expand and improve the quality of our service,
react to market conditions, and to diversify our generating capacity. We believe
that our existing financing together with cash flows provide us with sufficient
financial capacity to fund our business and capital expenditure program and
represent a source of working capital sufficient to meet our future short-term
and long-term financing of our ongoing operations.
In 2003, our capital investments, including financial investments without
acquisition of companies which are a part of our consolidated group totaled
approximately CZK 23.9 billion, 130% more than in 2002. In 2004, they totaled
approximately CZK 15.8 billion, 34.1% less than in 2003.
Financing Obligations
The following table presents our principal long-term financing obligations as at
December 31, 2004:
Payments Due By Period
-----------------------------------------------
(in CZK millions)
Less than After 5
Total 1 year 1-3 years 4-5 years years
------- --------- --------- --------- --------
Long-term debt 41,629 3,439 14,197 7,540 16,453
------- --------- --------- --------- --------
Total 41,629 3,439 14,197 7,540 16,453
======= ========= ========= ========= ========
We do not have significant obligations resulting from capital and operating
lease contracts.
The following table summarizes our estimated capital expenditures, including
uncommitted amounts, for the next five years (in CZK billions):
Expected Capital Expenditures By Period
-------------------------------------------------
(in CZK billions)
Total 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009
------- --------- --------- --------- -------- --------
Capital expenditures 105.6 17.3 19.9 23.4 22.4 22.6
======= ========= ========= ========= ======== ========
47
These figures do not include the expected acquisitions of subsidiaries and
associates, which in accordance with the estimated free cash flows can amount up
to CZK 90 billion in the period 2005 through 2009. The actual payments for
acquisitions will depend on the number of future investment opportunities, for
which we will be a successful bidder and also considering the recoverability of
these investments.
Sources of Financing
The financing of our capital investment program is obtained from cash flows from
operating activities and financing. The primary sources of financing available
to us consist of the following:
o cash flow from operating activities;
o financing from banks; and
o the issuance of bonds.
Cash Flow and Liquidity
Net cash generated from our operating activities provides us with a significant
source of liquidity. Our operating activities generated net cash of
approximately CZK 19 billion in fiscal 2002, approximately CZK 35.8 billion in
fiscal 2003, and approximately CZK 34.1 billion in fiscal year 2004. The
year-on-year decrease of CZK 1.6 billion in 2004 was caused, among other things,
by a CZK 6.4 billion increase in income tax payments, while cash generated from
operations rose by CZK 3.9 billion (10.7%) and dividends received grew by CZK
0.7 billion (125%). In 2002, 2003, and 2004, we generated 100% of our capital
investment needs from operations.
At year end 2003, our net receivables amounted to approximately CZK 7.1 billion,
an approximately CZK 3.0 billion (74.9%) increase against the level at the end
of 2002. At year end 2003, the largest portion of our receivables in the amount
of CZK 3.6 billion was associated with the five REAS (including their affiliated
entities) which are part of our consolidated group, and the second largest
portion in the amount of CZK 3.2 was associated directly with CEZ. At year end
2004, our net receivables amounted to approximately CZK 8.9 billion, an
approximately CZK 1.8 billion (26.0%) increase against the level at the end of
2003.
In 2003, our cash balances decreased to approximately CZK 4.0 billion at year
end 2003. Cash balances can fluctuate substantially on the basis of the timing
of borrowings and repayments of debt. Our cash balances increased from CZK 4.0
billion at year end 2003 to approximately CZK 7.5 billion at year end 2004.
Our total consolidated long-term debt (including current portion) decreased by
8.3% (approximately CZK 3.3 billion) during 2003 and totaled approximately CZK
36.7 billion at year end 2003. Total debt from bonds issued increased by CZK 1.1
billion mainly due to addition of domestic bond of Severomoravska energetika,
a.s. Long-term bank loans and other loans (including current portion) decreased
by approximately CZK 4.4 billion. Our total consolidated long-term debt
(including current portion) increased by 13.6% (approximately CZK 5.0 billion)
during 2004 and totaled approximately CZK 41.6 billion at year end 2004. Total
debt from bonds issued increased by CZK 8.5 billion, mainly due to issue of EUR
400 million bonds. Long-term bank loans and other loans (including current
portion) decreased by approximately CZK 3.6 billion.
We had CZK 2.3 billion short-term loans at the end of 2003. Current portion of
long-term debt increased to approximately CZK 5.7 billion (or by 34.4%)
primarily due to expected repayment of domestic bonds. We had no short term
loans at year-end 2004. Long-term debt due within one year decreased from
approximately CZK 5.7 billion to approximately CZK 3.4 billion (or by 39.6%).
Loans and Bonds
The following table shows our outstanding long-term indebtedness as at December
31, 2004:
Indebtedness
as of
Facility December,
Creditor Interest Rate Currency Amount 31, 2004(1) Maturity
- -------- ------------- -------- ------- --------- --------
(millions) (CZK millions)
Bank Austria AG fixed EUR 20 36 2005
Citibank International floating USD 1,805 2007-2008
317
48
Ceska sporitelna fixed CZK 50 26 2007
CSOB fixed CZK 248 115 2007
Erste Bank AG fixed/floatingEUR 17 103 2006
Erste (CR) a.s. fixed CZK 58 12 2006
European Investment Bank fixed USD 55 852 2013
European Investment Bank fixed EUR 44 945 2013
European Investment Bank floating CZK 3,441 2,382 2012-2013
Fortis Bank floating USD 55 432 2008-2009
IBRD floating USD 246 1,078 2007
ING Bank floating EUR 27 48 2005
Komercni banka fixed CZK 300 89 2006
Komercni banka fixed CZK 6 2 2007
Komercni banka fixed CZK 10 1 2006
Komercni banka fixed CZK 10 2 2006
Komercni banka fixed CZK 37 2 2006
Nordic Investment Bank floating USD 50 1,119 2007
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total 9,049
------------
Amount payable by December 31, 2005 1,939
Balance 7,110
============
(1) Amounts have been translated into CZK at the CNB Exchange Rate at December
31, 2004.
The following table shows our outstanding bonds as at December 31, 2004:
Indebtedness
Original Nominal as of
Maturity Interest Rate Value December 31, 2004 Pre-payment Issue Date
- -------- ------------- ---------------- ----------------- ----------- ----------
(millions) (CZK millions)
2014 9.22 % CZK 2,500 2,494 - 1999
2009 9.22 %, zero coupon(1) CZK 4,500 3,299 - 1999
2007 7.125% USD 200(2) 3,962 - 1997
2006 7.250% EUR 200 6,233 - 1999
2011 4,625% EUR 400 12,101 - 2004
2008 3.350% CZK 3,000 2,990 - 2003
2005 6M PRIBOR+0.4% CZK 1,000 500 - 1998
2005 6M PRIBOR+1.3% CZK 500 1,000 - 2000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total 32,579
============
(1) We realized proceeds of CZK1,863 million on this zero coupon bond.
(2) Open-market purchase by us in the amount of USD 22 million.
On June 8, 2004 CEZ Finance B.V. issued EUR 400 million 4 5/8% guaranteed notes
due 2011. These notes are unconditionally and irrevocably guaranteed by CEZ.
On March 3, 1999, we began a CZK 5.0 billion domestic commercial paper program
with a consortium of banks to cover short-term financing differences of cash
inflows and outflows. On April 19, 2000, the domestic commercial program was
extended up to CZK 9.0 billion. Out of this total sum CZK 3.0 billion are
committed. Six banks are participating in the commercial paper program now. We
have no outstanding indebtedness under this program as of December 31, 2004. The
interest rates on indebtedness under this program range from the Prague
inter-bank offering rate ("PRIBOR") to PRIBOR plus 0.20%, each 0.01% being a
basis point ("b.p.").
Also, we have several committed short-term credit lines -- the syndicated
revolving facility for USD 70 million and others credit lines at the amount of
CZK 2.5 billion. For the preceding three months (March, April and May 2005) we
have not utilized neither commercial paper program nor short-term lines.
On May 30, 2000, we entered into a syndicated multi-currency EUR 85 million
guarantee facility in favor of the European Investment Bank due 2013. On
February 24, 2005 this guarantee was replaced by new one, which is valid for
another 5 years. Our outstanding indebtedness under this credit facility as of
December 31, 2004 was CZK 2.1 billion at a floating interest rate of PRIBOR
minus 5 b.p.
49
On October 20, 1999, CEZ Finance B.V., a wholly owned subsidiary of CEZ
organized under the laws of The Netherlands and acting as a financing vehicle
for CEZ, issued EUR 200 million 7.25 percent Guaranteed Notes due 2006. These
notes are unconditionally and irrevocably guaranteed by CEZ.
On January 27, 1999, we exercised a call option for CZK 4.0 billion 14.375%
bonds. We repaid the bonds using a portion of proceeds from two bond issues in
aggregate amount of CZK 7 billion, an issue of CZK 4.5 billion domestic
discounted bonds (with a zero coupon so that immediate funds due 2009 were
obtained in an amount of CZK 1.9 billion), as well as an issue of CZK 2.5
billion domestic 9.22% bonds due 2014 (from 2006 these bonds will bear interest
at a variable interest rate defined as CPI + 4.2%). On June 7, 1999 we issued
CZK 3.0 billion domestic 8.75% bonds due 2004 and the proceeds were used to
exercise the call option for CZK 3.0 billion 10.9% bonds. On June 6, 2000 we
exercised a call option for CZK 4.0 billion 11.3% bonds. On June 27, 2003 we
exercised a call option for CZK 3.0 billion 11 1/16% bonds. We repaid these
bonds using proceeds from new CZK 3.0 billion domestic 3.35% bonds due 2008
issued on June 23, 2003. On June 7, 2004 we repaid our domestic 8.75% bonds due
on 2004.
On November 11, 1998, we entered into a syndicated credit facility agreement for
an aggregate amount of DEM 280 million with a consortium of thirteen banks with
Sumitomo Bank Limited being the Facility Agent. For DEM portion of this facility
we pay interest of LIBOR plus 50 b.p. and for the CZK portion, PRIBOR plus 50
b.p. The last installment of this facility was paid on November 11, 2003.
On January 27, 1998, we entered into a credit facility agreement with the Nordic
Investment Bank for a total amount of USD 50 million. We pay interest of LIBOR
plus 50 b.p. on this facility.
On December 14, 1995, we entered into a long-term multi-currency loan provided
by the European Investment Bank in the amount of 200 million ECU (European
Currency Unit). On July 11, 1996, we obtained a guarantee valid until 2003 from
a consortium of commercial banks required by the loan agreement with the
European Investment Bank allowing us to draw-down up to ECU 100 million under
such agreement. We have made four drawdowns on this loan in denominations and
with interest rates as follows: USD 7.05%, DEM 6.33%, EUR 5.17% and CZK PRIBOR
minus 15 b.p. A new guarantee for next 5 years was obtained from the manager of
the consortium on April 8, 2003.
On December 3, 1996, we entered into two syndicated credit facility agreements
to secure financial resources for the completion of the Temelin nuclear power
plant. The first facility, arranged by Citibank, is for USD 317 million and is
guaranteed by the Export-Import Bank of the United States and by the Czech
Republic. We drew down approximately USD 256 million for the information and
control systems as well as for fuel for Unit I and II of Temelin. In 2001 we
decided to cancel the undisbursed balance of the loan, or USD 61 million ( USD
32 million for instrumentation and control system and USD 29 million for fuel).
As at December 31, 2004 approximately USD 176 million of the principal had been
repaid. The interest rate on this loan is LIBOR plus 30 b.p. The second
facility, arranged by Generale Bank (now operating under the name Fortis Bank),
is for USD 55 million and guaranteed by the Belgium Office of National du
Ducroire and by the Czech Republic. We drew down altogether approximately USD
45.0 million for the information and control system. As at December 31, 2004
approximately USD 25.7 million of the principal had been repaid and no amount
remained to be drawn down under this facility as we cancelled the undisbursed
balance of the loan. The interest rate on this loan is LIBOR plus 50 b.p. In
consideration for the Czech Republic guarantees of these two credit facility
agreements, we have agreed to pledge to the Czech Republic (i) certain of our
receivables from one of the REAS, within 30 days of demand by the Czech Republic
under the applicable guarantee and (ii) the buildings (cooling towers) at the
Temelin nuclear power plant, upon transfer of title thereto to us (after
completion of construction thereof).
On July 17, 1992, we entered into a multi-currency loan agreement with the
International Bank for Reconstruction and Development for an amount equal to USD
246 million. We currently have EUR and USD portions outstanding with applicable
interest rates of EUR London inter-bank offering rate ("LIBOR") plus 50 b.p. and
World Bank variable rate plus 50 b.p., respectively. On December 31, 2004 our
outstanding indebtedness under this multi-currency loan agreement consisted of
(i) a EUR portion of approximately EUR 6.2 million with an applicable interest
rate of 2.28% and (ii) a USD portion of approximately USD 39.7 million with an
applicable interest rate of 4.05%. This agreement contains several financial
covenants relating to, among other things, interest coverage and
revenues/expense ratio. This revenue/expense ratio requires us to maintain
operating costs at a level no higher than 60% of our operating revenues and to
furnish on a semi-annual basis to the International Bank for Reconstruction and
Development forecasts for the next following year in respect of whether we
expect to comply with the ratio. In the past our operating cost to operating
revenue ratio has neared the 60% level. With the aim of avoiding a breach of
this contract we successfully requested the International Bank for
Reconstruction and Development to waive this
50
revenue/expense ratio requirement for 1999 and 2000. In 2001, 2002, 2003 and
2004 we met all of the financial covenants on this loan.
To manage short-term financing differences of cash inflows and outflows, we
utilize a number of instruments, including commercial paper programs, T-bills,
revolving multi-currency credit facilities and bank overdrafts. Our long-term
liquidity depends on the future prices of electricity and on the demand for
electricity. With respect to managing long-term liquidity, we believe that we
will be able to secure necessary sources of funding.
Certain of our loans and the terms and conditions of guarantees issued by us
include covenants that require us to be controlled by the Czech Republic. As
part of the anticipated sale of CEZ, a. s., we plan to negotiate amendments to
these covenants to allow the sale of CEZ, a. s. by the National Property Fund.
As indicated above, certain of our loans required the proceeds to be used for
the construction of Temelin or the refurbishment of some of our coal power
plants to meet new environmental laws. In each case, we have used the proceeds
in accordance with the restrictions on use as provided in such loans.
We hold cash and cash equivalents in EUR, USD and CZK.
For 2004 we hedged against foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations affecting
our expenses of operations by using FX option strategy (zero cost premium). We
believe this is the most effective strategy in situations where it is not
possible to accurately predict the amount and maturity of expenses. We also
executed several IR swaps to switch part of our floating rate liabilities into
fixed rate using the situation of historically low Czech interest rates. For
more information on hedging activities, see notes 2.20 and 13 to the
Consolidated Financial Statements included herein.
Material Commitments for Capital Expenditures
Our existing fixed material commitments for capital expenditures for the last
financial year and from January 1, 2005 relate to the completion of Temelin and
the commencement of the modernization of the Dukovany nuclear power plant,
together with its control center. See "Property, Plants and Equipment" on page
30 for a full discussion of capital expenditures related to Temelin. Further
commitments for future capital expenditures in the amount of EUR 146.6 million
related to our acquisition of a major distribution company in Romania are
described in "Distribution of Electricity -- Romania" on page 21.
Research and Development
We hire external entities to perform research projects based on our technical
assignments, evaluations, and performance check-ups. We provide documentation,
technical information and data to those entities. The research performed by
those external entities covers numerous projects primarily in the areas of
conventional power and nuclear energy. Further, our REAS perform research
regarding distribution grid operation. Some of our research is conducted with
the support of the Czech Ministry of Industry and Trade. None of the research
projects we are currently involved in is material for our business.
Trend Information
In 2003 the Czech Republic saw another phase of progressive market opening to
final customers, with approximately 375 customers with a total consumption of
about 16 TWh being able to select their respective suppliers. The REAS, as the
regional electricity seller to final customers, refrained from purchasing
electricity imports, as was the case in 2002, and purchased a major portion of
their requirements from CEZ. The key event was the commissioning of the Temelin
power plant, bringing about an increased option to make use of the business
opportunity that presented itself in the market. Also related to these
developments is the achievement of the historically largest quantity of
electricity exports from the Czech Republic, which the first half-year
development suggests will not be repeated.
As a consequence of the liberalization of the energy market in the Czech
Republic, we have seen a decrease in the profitability on energy sold as the
Czech energy market has faced competition from energy imports. This trend has
been exacerbated by the lack of free competition and non-reciprocal rules
applicable for the export of electricity from the Czech Republic to neighboring
countries (as opposed to the import of electricity to the Czech Republic). As a
consequence, fees imposed in neighboring countries on our exported electricity
result in an energy price that is higher than prices for electricity imports
from such countries to the Czech Republic. The REAS have reacted to this
51
imbalance by purchasing imported cheaper electricity. This has required us to
respond by lowering our energy prices and decreasing our profitability. In 2003,
for example, we have sold electricity to the REAS at lower prices than for the
similar period in 2002 in an effort to improve our competitive position and
improve market share. If this trend continues, we may respond by temporarily
reducing our production of electricity.
Information on ongoing and potential future acquisitions
In July 2003, we entered a tender process organized by the National Property
Fund of the Slovak Republic for the selection of the purchaser of its 66%
interest in Slovenske elektrarne, a.s. However, the price offered by our
competitors was higher than the price we offered in our final bid, we were not
selected as winner of the tender process, and we did not acquire the 66%
interest.
On November 19, 2004, we entered into an agreement to purchase 67% share in
three distribution companies in Western Bulgaria from Bulgarian government. On
January 18, 2005, we closed this transaction. We paid a total of EUR 281.5
million for the three majority shares. For more information see "Material
contracts" on page 63.
In April 2005, we entered into an agreement to acquire a 51% majority share in
Electrica Oltenia S.A., a Romanian distribution company, from Romanian
government. The agreement is still subject to completion of various conditions
precedent and we expect closing of this transaction in the end of October 2005.
We have already paid EUR 4.7 million as a portion of the total purchase price of
EUR 151.3 million. At closing, we will be required to pay the remainder in the
amount of EUR 146.6. We intend to finance this commitment from our internal
sources. For more information see "Distribution of Electricity -- Romania" on
page 21.
We currently participate in several privatization tenders for selected coal
power plants in Poland. On April 5, 2005, we made and individual offer for the
purchase of a 39.2% interest in power company Zespol Elektrowni Patnov - Adamow
- - Konin SA, and currently we perform due diligence in the company. On April 21,
2005, we submitted an individual offer to the Polish government for purchase of
a stake in Zespol Elektrowni Dolna Odra SA (Dolna Odra, Pomorzany and Szczecin
power plants). On April 26, 2005, we made an offer to purchase a stake in the
company Elektrownia Kozienice SA (Kozienice power plant). We were shortlisted in
these two tenders.
In May 2005, the government of Montenegro announced a tender for privatization
of a coal power plant (Pljevlja - 210 MW), and its minority stake (approximately
31%) in the adjoining Pljevlja Mine. We intend to participate in the tender
process.
We intend to explore further opportunities for foreign acquisitions. In 2005,
several tenders for privatization are expected to be announced in Romania
(privatization of selected coal power plants and adjoining mines, and of a
distribution company), Macedonia (privatization of generation and distribution),
and Montenegro (privatization of distribution). We intend to participate in
these tenders. Also, we are analyzing other potential acquisition targets
including distribution in Poland, and power generation and distribution in
Serbia.
On July 13, 2005, the Czech government granted to us a three-month exclusivity
with respect to negotiation of the envisaged sale by the Czech government of its
55% stake in Severoceske doly a.s., our major supplier of lignite. We expressed
our interest in purchasing the stake and intend to submit a bid to the Czech
government.
OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS
We have not identified any material off-balance sheet arrangements.
TABULAR DISCLOSURE OF CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS
Payments due by period
(in CZK millions)
less than 1 - 3 3 - 5 more than
---------- ----- ----- ---------
Total 1 year years years 5 years
----- ------ ----- ----- -------
Contractual Obligations
Long Term Debt Obligations......... 41,629 3,439 14,197 7,540 16,453
Insurance.......................... 485 485 - - -
Electricity purchase except of members
of CEZ Group.................... 6,379 6,379 - - -
I&C System for Dukovany............ 4,456 668 2,173 1,465 150
Fuel............................... 20,861 7,996 5,329 5,034 2,502
52
ITEM 6. DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES
We have a two-tier board system consisting of a Board of Directors and a
Supervisory Board. The Board of Directors represents us in all matters and is
charged with our management, while the Supervisory Board oversees our Board of
Directors and our executive officers. Our executive officers manage our daily
operation. Under the Czech Commercial Code, the Supervisory Board may not make
management decisions. Our highest governing body is the General Meeting of
Shareholders. Members of the Supervisory Board are elected by the General
Meeting of Shareholders, while members of the Board of Directors are elected by
the Supervisory Board.
The Board of Directors must inform the Supervisory Board on certain matters, and
the Supervisory Board may request information at any time. The Czech Commercial
Code prohibits simultaneous membership on the Board of Directors and the
Supervisory Board of any company.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
Set forth below are members of our Board of Directors and our Executive Managers
(Executive Officers).
Board of Directors:
Name Position Held Since Age
- ---- --------- ---------- ---
Martin Roman............. Chairman of the Board of Directors 2004 35
Alan Svoboda............. Vice-Chairman of the Board of 2004 33
Directors
Petr Voboril............. Vice-Chairman of the Board of 2002 54
Directors
Jiri Borovec............. Member of the Board of Directors 2004 41
Radomir Lasak............ Member of the Board of Directors 2004 40
Executive Managers:
Name Position Held Since Age
- ---- --------- ---------- ---
Martin Roman............. Chief Executive Officer 2004 35
Alan Svoboda............. Chief Sales Officer 2004 33
Petr Voboril............. Chief Financial Officer 2005 53
Jiri Borovec............. Chief Generation Officer 2004 41
Radomir Lasak............ Chief Administration Officer 2004 40
Martin Roman. Graduated from the Faculty of Law at Charles University in Prague.
Then he studied a one-year scholarship program at St. Gallen University
(Switzerland), the Faculty of Economics. He also spent one year studying at the
Karl-Ruprechtsuniversitat Heidelberg (Germany). He began his professional career
in 1992 when still a student, when he was appointed the sales director of the
Czech branch of Wolf Bergstrasse CR, s. r. o., a company specializing in the
manufacture of potato crisps. From 1994 to 1999 he worked as the CEO of Janka
Radotin, a. s., and in 1998, after the acquisition of the company by a strategic
partner - the American company LENNOX, he also became a member of the company
board. His third chief executive position was in SKODA HOLDING (he began in 1999
in Pilsen as Chairman of the Board and General Director of SKODA, a. s., and in
April 2000 he was appointed Chairman of the Board and a CEO of the entire
joint-stock company SKODA HOLDING), from where he went on to our Company. In
February 2004 he was appointed the Chairman of our Board of Directors and since
April 1, 2004 he holds position of our Chief Executive Officer. He is a member
of our Audit Committee. As of April 2004, he is a vice-president of the
Confederation of Industry and Transport of the Czech Republic.
Alan Svoboda. Graduated from the University of West Bohemia in Pilsen in IT and
financial management. He also completed MBA in Finance and MA in Economics at
University of Missouri in Kansas City (USA). He holds a CFA certificate
(Chartered Financial Analyst) issued by AIMR (Association for Investment
Management and Research). Prior joining CEZ, Mr. Svoboda was a partner at
McKinsey & Company where he specialized in advising clients coming from energy
sector, gas industry and petrochemistry. From April 1998 to January 2000 he was
a CFO and a Vice-Chairman of the Board of Directors of Zapadoceska energetika,
a.s. Since May 2004 he has become a Vice-Chairman of our Board of Directors.
From June 29, 2004 until August 31, 2004 he was Chairman of the Supervisory
Board of CEZData, s.r.o., and since August 31, 2004 is a Vice-Chairman. Since
June 29, 2004 he is a member of the Supervisory Board of Zapadoceska energetika,
a.s. and since March 31, 2005 he is a Vice-Chairman of the Supervisory Board of
CEZ Prodej, s.r.o.
53
Petr Voboril. Graduate of the Mechanical Engineering Faculty of the Czech
Technical University, where he studied work space technology, and he did
post-graduate work in district heat development. In 1997 he attended a
management skills course at the InterManager European standard level. He started
to work for Ceske energeticke zavody (the predecessor of our Company) in 1980
and spent the first ten years of his career with us in operation control and
heat industry development. After 1990 he worked in various economic section
posts, and from January 1995 to April 1998 he was Director of the Planning and
Analysis Section. In 2000 he was appointed our Vice-CEO and the Executive
Director for Finances and Administration. Since October 2002 he has held the
position of our Chief Strategic Development Officer. From February 2003 to
November 2003 he held the position of the Vice-Chairman of our Board of
Directors, than he was appointed Chairman of the Board of Directors. He held
this position until February 2004 when he became again the Vice-Chairman of our
Board of Directors. From November 2003 to March 2004 he was our acting CEO.
Since May 2003 he has been a member of the supervisory board of Stredoceska
energeticka, a.s.
Jiri Borovec. Graduated from the Military Academy in Brno, Masaryk University,
the United States Air Force Defense Language Institute (Texas, USA) and Brno
Business School - also earning an MBA degree from Nottingham Trent University.
In 1997 he attended the ABB International Management Workshop for ABB Group
Senior Top Managers, and in 1999 he earned the ABB Service Management
Certificate. From 1990 to 1995 he worked in the Czech Army as an interpreter and
translator from and into English, Spanish and Russian. His next place of work
was the ABB Czech Republic company, in which he worked from 1995 to 2000,
holding the positions of Personnel Director, Vice-President for Human Resources,
as well as being a Member of the Country Board. In 1999 and 2000 he held the
position of CEO of the ABB Service Czech Republic and Business Unit Manager ABB
Service Central Europe. Before joining CEZ in October 2004 as a member of our
Board of Directors and Chief Generation Officer, he was the Chairman and CEO of
the Skoda JS joint-stock company.
Radomir Lasak. Graduated from the University of Economics in Prague in 1989. In
1996, he earned the Master of Business Administration degree from the Prague
International Business School. He began his professional career in 1991 in
Komercni banka. In 1999 he was appointed Director of the Investment Banking
Division in Komercni banka. In 2000 he became a member of the Komercni banka
Board of Directors, whose special jurisdiction was trade, and also Deputy CEO.
Since August 2002 he has been the Chairman and CEO of eBank. He joined our
Company in September 2004 as a member of our Board of Directors and Chief
Administration Officer.
SUPERVISORY BOARD
Set forth below are the incumbent members of the Supervisory Board:
Current
Initially Term
Name Appointed Expires Age
- ---- --------- ------- ---
Jiri Havel (Chairman) .................. 2005 2009 47
Zdenek Hruby (Vice-Chairman)............ 2003 2007 48
Vaclav Krejci(1) (Vice-Chairman)........ 1993 2006 51
Ales Cincibus .......................... 2005 2009 49
Jan Demjanovic ......................... 2003 2007 51
Jiri Jedlicka(1)........................ 2004 2008 46
Jan Juchelka ........................... 2002 2006 33
Petr Kousal............................. 2005 2009 51
Martin Pecina .......................... 2003 2007 36
Jan Sevr(1)............................. 1999 2008 58
Pavel Suchy ............................ 2003 2007 50
Zdenek Zidlicky(1)...................... 2002 2006 58
(1) Employee representative
Jiri Havel. Graduated from the Prague School of Economics. Since 1998 till 2000
he was an economic advisor of the Vice-Chairman of the Czech Government, and
since 1999 till 2001 he was a Vice-Chairman of the National Property Fund, our
majority shareholder. In 1999 and 2000 he was a member of the Supervisory Board
of Ceska sporitelna, a.s., in 2000 and 2001 he was a Vice-chairman of the
Supervisory Board of Komercni banka, a.s. Since 2004 till 2005 he was a member
of the Board of Directors of Unipetrol, a.s. In June 2005, he was elected to our
Supervisory Board and became its Chairman pursuant to an understanding with our
majority shareholder the National Property Fund. He also became a member of our
Audit Committee.
54
Zdenek Hruby. Graduated from the Czech Technical University's School of
Electrical Engineering. Currently he is a vice-president of the presidium of the
National Property Fund, a vice-chairman of the Supervisory Board of CESKY
TELECOM, a.s., and since April 2004 a member of the Supervisory Board of Eurotel
Praha, spol. s r.o. Till June 2004 he was a member of the Board of Directors of
Sokolovska uhelna, a.s., since April 2003 till May 2004 a member of the
Supervisory Board of Ceske aerolinie, a.s. and since December 2003 till May 2004
a member of the Board of Trustees of the Nadace Duhova energie. Until April 2005
he held the office of a Deputy Minister of Finance. He was elected Vice-Chairman
of our Supervisory Board in 2003 pursuant to an understanding with our majority
shareholder the National Property Fund.
Vaclav Krejci. Graduated from the Secondary Industrial School of Chemical
Technology. Mr. Krejci has seven years experience working for Chemicke zavody
Litvinov and is an employee representative on the Supervisory Board. Since 1982,
he has worked at the Dukovany Nuclear Power Station. In 1992 he was elected to
the CEZ Supervisory Board. Since 2000 he has been the Vice-Chairman of the
Supervisory Board. He is a member of the Supervisory Board of Nadace Duhova
energie (Rainbow Energy Foundation).
Ales Cincibus. Graduated from the University of Chemical Engineering in Prague.
Since 1980 till 1992, he worked in several functions in Komsos Caslav,
eventually as the chief commercial officer. Since 1993 till 2003 he acted in
several companies as the chief commercial officer. In 2003, he became employed
by the Czech Ministry of Industry and he was elected a member of the Supervisory
Board of Transgas, a.s., Vice-Chairman of the Board of Directors of Severoceske
doly a.s., and Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Cepro, a.s. He was elected
as a member of our Supervisory Board in June 2005 pursuant to an understanding
with our majority shareholder the National Property Fund.
Jan Demjanovic. Graduated from the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering of the
Technical and Textile University in Liberec. He is business director and a
member of the Board of Directos of Severoceske doly, a.s., a vice-chairman of
the Board of Directors of Coal Energy, a.s, and a vice- chairman of Supervisory
Board of SD - Kolejova doprava, a.s. Since March 2002 till May 2004 he was a
member of the Board of Directors of Teplarna Usti nad Labem, a.s. and since
April 2003 till January 2004 the chairman of the Supervisory Board of ENETECH
a.s.
Jiri Jedlicka. Graduated from the Secondary Vocational School Zetor Brno. He has
been employed in CEZ since 1980. Since 1994, he has been the released chairman
of OOSP EDU. Currently, he is a member of the Board of the directors of the
Association of the Independent Syndicates and the President of the Trade Union
of the employees of the nuclear energy industry with seat in Dukovany. In 2004
he was elected to the CEZ Supervisory Board.
Jan Juchelka. Graduated from the Department of Business at Slezska University in
Karvina. From June 1995 until the present he has been employed by the National
Property Fund. He has held positions as the Director of the Securities Trading
Department, the Director of the Securities Department, Director of the Company
Holdings Department and the Second Vice-Chairman of the Executive Committee of
the National Property Fund. Mr. Juchelka holds a broker's license. He is a
chairman of the Supervisory Board of PPP Centrum a.s., and the member of the
Supervisory Board of CESKY TELECOM, a.s., Komercni banka, a.s. and Eurotel
Praha, spol. s r.o. He was elected to our Supervisory Board pursuant to an
understanding with the National Property Fund, our majority shareholder.
Petr Kousal. Graduated from the University of Transportation in Zilina. Since
1978 he was employed in various positions at Czech Railways, including executive
positions. In February 2003, he was elected as the Chairman of the Board of
Directors of Ceske drahy, a.s., and in March 2003 he became CEO of Ceske drahy,
a.s. He was elected into our Supervisory Board in June 2005 pursuant to an
understanding with our majority shareholder the National Property Fund.
Martin Pecina. Graduated from Mechanical Faculty of VSB - Technical University
in Ostrava, and obtained an MBA from Sheffield Business School. He has a CIME
qualification. Until 2003 he was the CEO of HUTNI PROJEKT Frydek Mistek a.s.
Since February 2003 he is a deputy minister of industry and trade. He is a
member of the Supervisory Board of CEPS, a.s. and the chairman of the Board of
Directors of OSINEK, a.s. Since September 2001 till March 2005 he was a member
of the Board of Directors of NARODNI DUM - RADHOST, a.s. "in liquidation".
Since March 2003 till June 2004 he was a member of the Supervisory Board of
ISPAT NOVA HUT a.s. Mr. Pecina was elected to our Supervisory Board in June
2003 pursuant to an understanding with the National Property Fund, our majority
shareholder.
55
Pavel Suchy. Graduated from the Prague School of Economics. Since 1994 he works
for the National Property Fund. In November 2002, he was appointed the First
Vice-Chairman of the Executive Committee of the NPF. He is a member of the
Supervisory Boards of UNIPETROL, a.s., Ceske aerolinie a.s. and Konpo, s.r.o. He
was elected to our Supervisory Board in 2003 pursuant to an understanding with
our majority shareholder the National Property Fund. In May 2004 he was
appointed to be the audit committee financial expert.
Jan Sevr. Graduated from the Secondary Industrial School of Mechanical
Engineering. Mr. Sevr has worked at the Melnik Power Station since 1966 and is
an employee representative on the Supervisory Board. He has worked as the head
of the shift operations management department and is also the Chairman of the
labor union organization at Melnik Power Station. In 1999 he was elected to the
CEZ Supervisory Board.
Zdenek Zidlicky. Graduated from Secondary Technical School. Mr. Zidlicky has
held various positions in our company since 1979. Since 1993 he has been the
chairman of the CEZ-EPR II union organization. He represents the Czech Trade
Union of Northwestern Power Engineers in the Association of Trade Unions of
North Bohemia and in the Interregional Trade Union Council. He is also a
representative of the trade union for energy issues in the Economic and Social
Agreement Council of the Czech Republic, where he serves on the working team for
economic policy. He is a member of our Audit Committee.
COMPENSATION
In accordance with Czech law, we are required to publish only aggregate
information regarding compensation of the members of our Supervisory Board,
Board of Directors and executive managers. As a result, we provided the
following information about monetary and non-monetary benefits received by the
members of our Supervisory Board, Board of Directors and executive managers:
Supervisory Board of Executive
Board Directors Managers
------------------------------------------------
(CZK thousands)
Base salary(1)............................................. 1,851 - 42,870
Bonuses based on company performance(1).................... 380 - 40,291
Bonuses to Board members................................... 5,375 4,237
Share of profit for 2003 distribute to Board members(2).... 5,683 6,360
Compensation in relation to termination of employment...... 3,814 11,853
Other monetary compensation(3)............................. 116 136 154
Other non-monetary compensation(4)......................... 8,136 11,997 3,278
Compensation from companies controlled by CEZ, a.s......... 3,828
Of which:
Compensation of Board members of controlled............. 3,594
Other non-monetary compensation(5)...................... 235
(1) Monetary and non-monetary compensation of members of the Supervisory Board
who are also our employees arise from their employment
(2) Only share of profit actually paid to members of our Supervisory Board is
stated, excluding disputed share of profit
(3) Certain travel expenses and other compensation based on collective
bargaining agreement
(4) Personal car and life insurance
(5) Life insurance
BOARD PRACTICES
As of January 29, 1998, we restructured our management organizational structure,
creating a distinction between our Board of Directors and our executive
officers. The members of the Board of Directors were nominated by the National
Property Fund of the Czech Republic and elected at an Extraordinary General
Meeting of the Shareholders on January 5, 1999. Members of our current Board of
Directors are appointed by the Supervisory Board. See "Articles of Association
(Stanovy)" on page 60.
Pursuant to the Czech Commercial Code, our shareholders are entitled to appoint
and recall two-thirds of the members of the Supervisory Board. Members of the
Supervisory Board are appointed for a four-year term. The remaining members of
the Supervisory Board are (by law) employee representatives and are appointed
and recalled by CEZ employees. The shareholders and employees elect members of
the Supervisory Board for a period beginning at the end of the General Meeting
of Shareholders at which a resolution is adopted appointing them and
56
serve until the following General Meeting of Shareholders at which a resolution
is adopted discharging them. The Supervisory Board is responsible to the
shareholders and employees for the general supervision of CEZ's business.
Audit Committee. We have an Audit Committee whose statutes state that it is a
committee of our Supervisory Board and composed of members of our Supervisor
Board. In particular, currently our Audit Committee is composed of Zdenek
Zidlicky and Pavel Suchy, members of our Supervisory Board, and Radek Pomije,
the director of our internal audit department (Mr. Pomije is a member without
voting rights). One more member of the Audit Committee is expected to be elected
soon. Pursuant to the its statutes, the Audit Committee is charged with the task
of ensuring regular communication with and supervision of the internal audit
department. Specifically, the Audit Committee should discuss and evaluate the
audit department's annual report, annual audit plan, quarterly action plans and
should ensure that the internal audit department follows the ethics code for
internal company auditors. It is also responsible for, among other things,
regular communication and supervision of our external auditors and prepares for
the Board of Directors and Supervisory Board an evaluation of our external
auditors. The Audit Committee also discusses the correctness and completeness of
our quarterly, half-year and annual reports. Under Czech law, the Board of
Directors is required to make all decisions regarding our Company, unless the
authority to make a decision is delegated by statute or by articles of
association to the General Meeting or to the Supervisory Board. It is not
possible that our Audit Committee take decisions on its own, without appropriate
formal action being taken by the Board of Directors, General Meeting, or the
Supervisory Board. For these reasons, our Supervisory Board is in fact formally
making certain decisions generally required to be made by the Audit Committee.
Audit Committee however prepares documents for the Supervisory Board and
discusses relevant matters before they are being decided by the Supervisory
Board.
Severance Pay. In the event that a member of our Board of Directors is recalled
from office or the office otherwise terminates prior to the end of the period
for which the member was originally appointed or elected to the board, other
than as a result of a willful criminal act committed in connection with the
performance of his duties or certain other gross violations of such duties, he
or she is entitled to receive a lump sum payment from CEZ, a.s. equal to the
aggregate amount of his or her salary calculated for the entire remaining term
of office.
EMPLOYEES
As of the end of 2002, 2003, and 2004 we had 7,677, 18,100, and 17,855 employees
on a consolidated basis respectively, and as of the end of 2004 CEZ, a. s. had
6,629 employees on a standalone basis, approximately 48% of which are members of
trade unions. The present collective bargaining agreement between the Company
and the employees, legally represented by trade unions, expires on December 31,
2006.
We do not offer a defined benefit pension or other such post employment benefits
to our employees. Instead, we pay a payroll related tax (similar to FICA) to the
government. The Czech government provides pension payments to retired employees
(similar to the U.S. Social Security Program). The government also compensates,
directly, employee absences from work due to illness. We accrue for unused
available vacation pay at year end. We expense as incurred any severance pay
incurred; two months salary as required by law.
We do not have a history of strikes or work stoppages and no material labor
related claims are pending. We believe that relations with our employees are
good. There have been no strikes or work stoppages since the foundation of the
Company in 1992. Although we have experienced strike alerts in the past these
did not result in actual strikes or work stoppages. Since the date of our
foundation in 1992 we have reduced the number of employees by approximately
9,634 which represents a 59.2% reduction from our 1992 level. This reduction has
brought the ratio of employees to installed MW closer to ratios found in other
advanced European power companies. The reduction has also resulted in an
increase in the average level of education of our employees. We have completed
the process of an organizational audit which resulted at lowering the number of
our employees, and we are weighing other options aimed at further lowering the
number of our employees. Czech law entitles all employees dismissed by reason of
redundancy or organizational changes to a severance payment in the amount of two
months' pay.
SHARE OWNERSHIP
Our members of the Board of Directors hold 17,500 of our common shares. Our
members of the Supervisory Boards hold, in aggregate, 330,425 of our common
shares. None of the members of the Board of Directors or the Supervisory Board
holds more than 1% of our outstanding common shares.
57
Share Options. Our shareholders approved stock option agreements originally in
2001 with each member of our Board of Directors and Supervisory Board as part of
their compensation package. In 2003 and 2004 the conditions of stock option
agreements were slightly modified. Pursuant to such agreements, the members have
now the right to purchase, in aggregate, up to 7 million common shares of CEZ at
a price equal to the six-month weighted average of our share price on the Prague
Stock Exchange measured from the date the member is appointed to the position.
The members of the Board of Directors and Supervisory Board received these
options from us as part of their compensation package and without paying
consideration for them. Each member may exercise its call option rights, in full
or in part, at any time during the period specified in the relevant stock option
agreement, such period being generally set to correspond with the term for which
the member was elected or appointed to the respective board. Now, it is possible
to call option right until 3 months after the end of member's position. The
stock option agreements do not restrict a member's right to exercise call rights
in the event that the member is recalled from office or resigns prior to the
original term. Our members of the Board of Directors hold 1,750,000 call options
for our common shares (they held call options for 1,350,000 common shares as of
end of 2004). Our members of the Supervisory Board hold, in aggregate, options
for 750,000 of our common shares (they held call options for 460,000 common
shares as of end of 2004). None of the members of the Board of Directors or the
Supervisory Board holds call options for more than 1% of our outstanding common
shares.
ITEM 7. MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
As of December 31, 2004, our registered capital was equal to CZK 59,221,084,300
in denominations of nominal value CZK 100. All of these shares have been paid in
full and are book-entry shares in bearer form. Our common stock is publicly
traded on the two largest organized trading markets in the Czech Republic, the
Burza cennych papiru Praha, a.s. (the "Prague Stock Exchange") and the RM
System, a.s.
MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS
The following table sets forth shareholdings in our company according to the
records of the Czech Securities Center by all owners of more than 5% of our
voting shares and by all officers and directors of the Company as a group as of
June 14, 2005:
Percentage
of Total
Identity of Shares Shares
Person or Group Owned Outstanding
--------------- ------ -----------
National Property Fund 400,407,897 67.610
Members of the Board of Directors,
members of the Supervisory Board, and
other Executive Officers as a group
(8 persons) 347,925 0.059
With the exception of the NPF, to our knowledge, no other individual shareholder
owns more than 5% of our outstanding shares.
Voting rights of shareholders owning more than 5% of our shares do not differ
from other shareholders.
36 persons with U.S. addresses directly hold a total of 13,113,606 of our common
shares. It is difficult and impractical to determine what portion of our common
shares is beneficially held in the United States and the number of such
beneficial holders in the United States.
The Czech government has passed several resolutions calling for the sale of CEZ.
The Czech government controls our majority shareholder, the NPF. While the
government has expressed its intention through such resolutions and otherwise,
there can be no assurance that the Czech government will, in fact, instruct the
NPF to sell all or part of the NPF's shareholding in CEZ. For more information
on the proposed privatization of CEZ, see "Risk Factors" on page 9.
The Notes and Guarantees are held in fully registered global form in the name of
Cede & Co. as the nominee of the Depository Trust Company ("DTC"). Thus, Cede &
Co. is the only record holder of the Notes and Guarantees.
58
Transfer of beneficial interests of the Notes and Guarantees are effected
through the records of DTC (for transfers among DTC participants) and through
the records of individual DTC participants (for transfers among the clients of
such DTC participants). Thus, it is difficult and impractical to determine what
portion of the Notes and Guarantees is beneficially held in the United States
and the number of such beneficial holders in the United States.
RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
We purchase products from related parties in the ordinary course of business.
Severoceske doly, a.s., a company in which we hold an approximately 37% share,
supplies approximately 59% of our brown coal consumption. In 2002, 2003 and 2004
coal purchases from Severoceske doly, a.s., amounted to approximately CZK 4,921
million, CZK 5,177 million, and CZK 5,054 million, respectively. The prices of
fossil fuel supplies from Severoceske doly, a.s. do not differ significantly
from market prices.
As of April 1, 2003, we own majority interests in five REAS and we owned
minority interests in three REAS, all of whom are our primary customers. Since
August 2004 we own no minority interests in REAS. We also control certain
strategic decisions of the REAS where we hold majority interests.
During 2004, 2003 and 2002 we granted share options to the Board of Directors,
certain members of the management and Supervisory Board members. At December 31,
2004, the aggregate number of share options granted to members of Board of
Directors was 1,350,000 and the number of share options granted to Supervisory
Board members was 460,000 (see Share Options on page 58).
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
See the selected consolidated financial data presented under "Item 3. Key
Information" and financial statements presented under "Item 18. Financial
Statements". We prepare the Consolidated Financial Statements in accordance with
IFRS which differ in certain important respects from U.S. GAAP. Note 30 to the
Consolidated Financial Statements provides a description of the principal
differences between IFRS and U.S. GAAP and a reconciliation to U.S. GAAP of net
earnings and total shareholders' equity for the periods and as of the dates
therein indicated.
Dividends. Prior to our general meeting of shareholders on June 19, 2001, we
have never paid dividends. Our general meeting of shareholders on June 19, 2001
approved a dividend distribution of CZK 2.0 per share to be paid to shareholders
of record as of June 13, 2001 to be paid on August 1, 2001. Our general meeting
of shareholders on June 11, 2002 approved a dividend distribution of CZK 2.5 per
share to be paid to shareholders of record as of June 5, 2002 to be paid on
August 1, 2002. Our general meeting of shareholders on June 17, 2003 approved a
dividend distribution of CZK 4.50 per share to be paid to shareholders of record
as of June 11, 2003 to be paid on or after August 1, 2003. Our general meeting
of shareholders on June 17, 2004 approved a dividend distribution of CZK 8.00
per share to be paid to shareholders of record as of June 11, 2004 to be paid on
or after August 1, 2004. Our general meeting of shareholders on June 20, 2005
approved a dividend distribution of CZK 9.00 per share to be paid to
shareholders of record as of June 14, 2005 to be paid on or after August 1,
2005.
Export Sales
In 2004, we exported a total of 12,943 TWh (including trade outside the Czech
Republic) which generated revenues of CZK 10.3 billion. In 2004, the revenues
from electricity exports represented approximately 11.1% of total revenues from
electricity sales.
Litigation
We are involved in legal proceedings that are incidental to the normal conduct
of our business. We do not believe that liabilities relating to such proceedings
will have a material adverse effect on our business, prospects, financial
condition or results of operations.
On July 31, 2001 the Austrian federal land of Upper Austria filed a lawsuit with
the Land Court of Linz, Austria, against our company by which it sought a ruling
ordering to us to refrain from the potential negative impacts of the Temelin
nuclear power plant. On April 17, 2002, the court ruled that it had no
jurisdiction over a power plant located outside of Austria. The plaintiff has
filed an appeal against this decision with the Higher Land Court in Linz, which
affirmed the decision of the first stage court. However, a second appeal was
filed with the Prime Court in Vienna which overturned the original decision and
on August 1, 2003 recognized the jurisdiction of the Land Court in Linz,
59
returning the file to Linz for further proceeding. The hearing has not taken
place yet and the matter has not yet been finally resolved.
On March 1, 2002 two owners of small pieces of land in Upper Austria, filed a
separate lawsuit with the Land Court of Linz, Austria, against us and
Westinghouse by which they sought a ruling ordering to us and Westinghouse to
introduce adequate measures to prevent a threat substantially damaging use of
their land. Further, such persons have sought a declaration that we and
Westinghouse should be jointly and severally liable for any damage caused by the
Temelin nuclear power plant's operation.
Both of the above mentioned lawsuits filed with the Austrians Courts have been
suspended till the time the European Court of Justice adopts a decision about
preliminary question as regards jurisdiction of the Austrian Courts over the
lawsuits. The matter was recently referred to the European Court of Justice by
the Prime Court in Vienna.
On May 31, 2004, we were served with a request for arbitration before the ICC
International Court of Arbitration by DALKIA FRANCE. In this request for
arbitration DALKIA FRANCE alleges a breach of a joint venture contract by us and
seeks liquidated damages in the amount of USD 25 million. The dispute was
amicably settled between the parties by signing a settlement agreement in
December 2004. As a result, we paid approximately one third of the claimed
amount and DALKIA FRANCE withdrew its arbitration claims.
ITEM 9. THE OFFER AND LISTING
The Notes and Guarantees are not listed on any U.S. or foreign securities
exchange or other organized trading market. Thus, no reliable pricing
information is available and we can give no assurance as to the existence or the
liquidity of the trading market for the Notes.
On March 18, March 23, April 15 and June 11, 1998, we repurchased USD 2 million,
USD 10 million, USD 7 million and USD 3 million, in nominal value of the Notes,
respectively, at prices of USD 97.25, USD 96.97, USD 97.10 and USD 98.40,
respectively, per Note plus accrued interest.
ITEM 10. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION (STANOVY)
Organization and Register
CEZ, a. s. is a stock corporation organized in the Czech Republic under the
Commercial Code. CEZ, a.s. is registered in the Commercial Register (Obchodni
rejstrik) maintained by the local court in Prague, Czech Republic, under the
entry number "B1581".
Corporate Governance
Czech stock corporations are governed by three separate bodies: the general
meeting of shareholders, the supervisory board and the board of directors. Their
roles are defined by Czech law and by our articles of association (stanovy), and
may be described generally as follows:
o The General Meeting of Shareholders approves the amount of the annual
dividend, if any, amendments to the Articles of Association,
liquidation, capital increases, electing and recalling of Supervising
Board members (other than those elected by employees), our financial
statements, and certain significant corporate transactions.
o The Supervisory Board appoints and removes the members of the board of
directors and oversees the management of our company. This differs
from the default provisions of the Czech Commercial Code, which state
that Members of the Board of Directors are appointed by the general
meeting. Czech law permits the Articles of Association to empower the
Supervisory Board to appoint the Board of Directors. Although prior
approval of the Supervisory Board may be required in connection with
certain significant matters, the law prohibits the Supervisory Board
from making management decisions.
60
o The Board of Directors manages our business and represents us in
dealings with third parties. The board of directors submits regular
reports to the Supervisory Board about our operations and business
strategies, and prepares special reports upon request. A person may
not serve on the Board of Directors and the Supervisory Board of a
corporation at the same time.
Several additional corporate governance provisions applicable to CEZ, a.s. are
summarized below.
Objects and Purposes
Our Articles of Association state our scope of business in Article 5. Our object
is to pursue, directly or indirectly, business in the fields of the energy
industry, in particular in the following lines of business:
o generation, transmission, sale, transit, import and export of
electricity;
o generation, distribution, and sale of heat;
o electrical equipment design;
o production and installation of, and repairs to electrical machines and
devices;
o automated data processing;
o installation, repair, maintenance of designated electrical equipment;
o reprographic services;
o testing of electrical equipment;
o production of de-mineralized water; analyses of oils, water and coal;
o lease of goods;
o purchase of goods for resale and sale - except for goods listed in the
appendices to Act No. 455/1991 Coll. on Trades, and goods excluded
thereby;
o installation, repairs, reconstruction and periodic testing of
designated pressure equipment;
o installation and repairs of electronic equipment; and
o production of machinery, trading in goods, transport, quality
consulting and other related support activities.
The Articles oFf Association authorize CEZ, a.s. to take all actions that serve
the ends of its objects.
Directors
Under Czech law, our Supervisory Board and Board of Directors members owe a duty
of loyalty and care to CEZ, a.s. They must exercise the standard of care of a
prudent and diligent businessman and bear the burden of proving they did so if
their actions are contested. Those who violate their duties may be held jointly
and severally liable for any resulting damages.
Under the Articles of Association, the general meeting of the shareholders
decides on the Board Directors compensation. Directors may not award
compensation to themselves. However, the Board of Directors may decide on the
distribution of director compensation awarded by the general meeting, unless the
general meeting has already done so.
See also "Item 6. Directors, Senior Management and Employees" on page 53 for
further information about the Supervisory Board and the Board of Directors.
Ordinary Shares
The capital stock of CEZ, a.s. consists of ordinary shares, nominal value CZK
100, which are issued in registered form. Record holders of ordinary shares are
registered in the share register maintained by the Czech Securities Center
(Stredisko cennych papiru).
Some of the significant provisions under Czech law and our Articles of
Association relating to ordinary shares may be summarized as follows:
o Capital Increases. The share capital may be increased in consideration for
contributions in cash or in property, or by establishing authorized capital
or conditional capital. Authorized capital provides the Board of Directors
with the flexibility to issue new shares for a period up to five years
under certain conditions. Conditional capital allows the Board of Directors
to issue new shares for a specific purpose. Capital
61
increases require a decision of General meeting of shareholders approved by
2/3 of the votes present at the shareholders' meeting (3/4 of the votes in
case of increase by in-kind contribution). Our Articles of Association do
not contain conditions regarding changes in the share capital that are more
stringent than the law requires.
o Redemption. The share capital may also be reduced by a decision of the
general meeting of shareholders approved by 2/3 of the votes present at the
shareholders' meeting.
o Preemptive Rights. Our Articles of Association provide that the preemptive
right of shareholders to subscribe for any issue of additional shares in
proportion to their share holdings in the existing capital may be excluded
under certain circumstances.
o Liquidation. If CEZ, a.s. were to be liquidated, any liquidation proceeds
remaining after all of its liabilities were paid would be distributed to
its shareholders in proportion to their share holdings.
o No Limitation on Foreign Ownership. There are no limitations under Czech
law or in our Articles of Association on the right of persons who are not
citizens or residents of the Czech Republic to hold or vote ordinary
shares.
Dividends
Dividends in respect of ordinary shares may be declared once a year at the
general meeting of shareholders. The Supervisory Board discusses the financial
statements for each fiscal year and recommends the disposition of all
unappropriated profits for approval by shareholders at the general meeting of
shareholders. Shareholders registered in the share register on the date of the
meeting are entitled to receive the dividend, if any. Dividends, if any, are
paid to shareholders in proportion to their percentage ownership of the
outstanding capital stock.
Our Articles of Association state that we may distribute our profit in the
following manner: we must contribute at least 5% of profit to our
non-distributable reserve fund until the reserve fund reaches a level of 20% of
the amount of our registered capital, into other funds of the Company,
dividends, and benefits for members of the Supervisory Board and the Board of
Directors.
Voting Rights
Each ordinary share represents one vote. Cumulative voting is not permitted
under Czech law. Our Articles of Association provide that resolutions are passed
at shareholder meetings by a simple majority of votes cast, unless a higher vote
is required by law or our Articles of Association. Our Articles of Association
require that the following matters, among others, be approved by the affirmative
vote of 2/3 of the issued shares present at the shareholders' meeting at which
the matter is proposed:
o amendments to the Articles of Association;
o capital increases and capital decreases; and
o dissolution.
Czech law requires that, among other things, the limitation or exclusion of
preemptive rights of shareholders to subscribe for new shares under certain
conditions or to acquire convertible or priority debt shall be approved by a 3/4
majority of votes of all shareholders present at the shareholder's meeting at
which the matter is proposed. Furthermore, Czech law requires that, among other
things, (i) a change of form and type of shares, (ii) a change of rights related
to certain types of shares, (iii) restrictions of the disposability of shares
and (iv) cancellation of public tradability shall be approved, in addition to
the simple majority of votes of all attending shareholders, also by at least a
3/4 majority of votes of attending shareholders holding the shares to be
affected by such change.
General Meetings of Shareholders
The Board of Directors, the Supervisory Board under specific circumstances, or
shareholders owning in the aggregate at least 3% of the issued shares may call a
meeting of shareholders. There is a 30% minimum quorum of outstanding shares
requirement for shareholder meetings. Among other things, the general meeting
approves the amount of the annual dividend, if any, amendments to the Articles
of Association, and certain significant corporate
62
transactions. Eight members of the Supervisory Board are appointed by the
general meeting of shareholders and four members are elected by employees.
In order to be entitled to participate and vote at the general meeting of
shareholders, a shareholder must be registered in the share register six days
prior to the meeting date. Shareholders may vote by proxy. As a foreign private
issuer, CEZ, a.s. is not required to file a proxy statement under U.S.
securities law. The proxy voting process for our shareholders is similar to the
process utilized by publicly held companies incorporated in the United States.
Change in Control
There are no provisions in the Articles of Association that would have an effect
of delaying, deferring or preventing a change in control of CEZ, a.s. However,
general principles of Czech law may restrict business combinations under certain
circumstances.
Disclosure Of Share Holdings
Our Articles of Association do not require shareholders to disclose their share
holdings. The Czech Commercial Code, however, requires holders of voting
securities of a corporation whose shares are listed on a stock exchange to
notify the corporation, Czech Securities Commission and Czech Securities Center
of the number of shares they hold if that number reaches, exceeds or falls below
specified thresholds. These thresholds are 5 %, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 1/3,
40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 2/3, 70%, 75%, 80%, 90% and 95% of the corporation's
outstanding voting rights.
MATERIAL CONTRACTS
Purchase of three distribution companies in Western Bulgaria
On November 19, 2004, we entered into a share privatization sale agreement with
the Republic of Bulgaria acting through the Privatization Agency of the Republic
of Bulgaria. Pursuant to this agreement, we purchased from the Republic of
Bulgaria 67% majority shares in three distribution companies in Western
Bulgaria. In particular, we purchased:
o 129,176 ordinary shares issued by Elektrorazpredelenie - Stolichno
EAD, Sofia, representing 67% of all voting rights in this company, for
the purchase price of EUR 188,793,000;
o 143,983 ordinary shares issued by Elektrorazpredelenie - Sofia Oblast
EAD, Sofia, representing 67% of all voting rights in this company, for
the purchase price of EUR 35,689,000; and
o 80,802 ordinary shares issued by Elektrorazpredelenie - Pleven EAD,
Pleven representing 67% of all voting rights in this company, for the
purchase price of EUR 57,018,000.
On the signing date, we paid a deposit in the amount of EUR 56,300,000. We paid
the remainder of the aggregate purchase price at closing on January 18, 2005,
following the satisfaction of various conditions precedent stipulated in the
agreement, including approval of the transaction by the Bulgarian Commission on
Protection of the Competition. As of January 18, 2005, we became owners of the
above shares.
We have provided to the Republic of Bulgaria several post-closing covenants,
including, amongst others, our obligation no to transfer, with limited
exemptions, any of the acquired shares prior to December 31, 2008, and our
obligation to maintain certain level of labor related expenses. We have also
provided certain warranties and indemnification to the Republic of Bulgaria.
The Republic of Bulgaria provided to us certain post-closing covenants,
including, amongst others, obligation not to transfer any of the unsold shares
prior to December 31, 2008, and a right of first refusal with respect to such
unsold shares. However, such right of first refusal will be only be effective if
Bulgarian law is changed in the future in order to allow for a grant of the
right of first refusal by the Republic of Bulgaria. The Republic of Bulgaria
also provided certain warranties and indemnification to us.
63
No Other Material Contracts
Apart from the above transactions, in the years 2004 and 2003, we did not enter
into any material contracts, other than contracts entered into in the ordinary
course of business.
EXCHANGE CONTROLS
The CZK is a fully convertible currency. We are not required to have any foreign
exchange license or other authorization under Act No. 219/1995 Coll. (the
"Foreign Exchange Act") for direct or indirect payment of the principal and
interest on the Notes or the Guarantees. The Foreign Exchange Act sets forth
certain exchange controls, which include both direct and indirect tools. As a
principle, any person (other than licensed banks operating in the Czech Republic
and banks authorized under the "European passport" single licence) who wants to
carry out transactions in foreign exchange values or arrange payments to or from
abroad needs a foreign exchange license if such activity is to be carried out as
a business activity. Furthermore, certain transactions effected by Czech
residents (as well as foreign residents carrying out business activity in the
Czech Republic) are subject to a notification duty.
The Foreign Exchange Act has established equal access to foreign exchange for
all residents, whether individuals or legal entities and whether or not the
exchange is for business purposes. The Foreign Exchange Act no longer requires
residents to convert any acquired foreign exchange funds into crowns, and allows
all entities (whether residents or non-residents) to open foreign exchange
accounts with Czech banks or, subject to a notification duty, with foreign
banks.
Currently, the Foreign Exchange Act allows Czech and foreign residents to
purchase or sell an unlimited amount of Czech or foreign currency from or to any
person for any purpose. Prior to making any payment abroad, banks are authorized
to require the production of documents evidencing the purpose of the requested
payment.
The Foreign Exchange Act introduced the possibility of a "compulsory deposit,"
which would impose a duty upon certain entities (which could include the
Company) to keep a certain amount of cash in a special account with a
64
Czech bank in the interests of stabilizing the Czech currency. Such moneys
include, among others, funds raised by Czech residents through foreign bond
issues or loans provided by non-residents. The Czech National Bank, in
consultation with the Ministry of Finance, must establish and promulgate in full
in the Collection of Laws, an administrative ruling for the compulsory deposit
obligation. The Czech National Bank has not issued any such administrative
ruling measure.
The Foreign Exchange Act authorizes the government to declare a state of
emergency in the foreign exchange economy in the event of an imminent and
serious danger to (i) the paying capacity with respect to foreign countries or
to (ii) the internal currency balance of the Czech Republic. The government must
announce any state of emergency in the foreign exchange economy in the mass
media and it may not last for longer than three months from the date of the
announcement. In the event of a danger to the paying capacity with respect to
foreign countries, it would be prohibited, inter-alia, to make any payments from
the Czech Republic abroad, including any transfers of funds between banks and
their branch offices, except as specifically permitted by the applicable foreign
exchange authority. In the event of a danger to the internal currency balance,
it would be prohibited, inter-alia, to sell domestic securities to
non-residents, to open accounts for non-residents in the Czech Republic, to
deposit funds into non-residents' accounts or to transfer funds from abroad to
the Czech Republic between banks and their branch offices, except as permitted
in each of the above cases by the applicable foreign exchange authority.
TAXATION GENERAL
The information set out below is only a summary description of certain material
Dutch, Czech and United States Federal income tax consequences of the purchase,
ownership and disposition of the Notes, but it does not purport to be a
comprehensive description of all the tax considerations that may be relevant to
a decision to purchase the Notes. This summary does not describe any tax
consequences arising under the laws of any state, locality or taxing
jurisdiction other than The Netherlands, the Czech Republic and the United
States.
This summary is based on the tax laws of The Netherlands, the Czech Republic and
the United States as in effect on the date of this Annual Report, as well as
regulations, rulings and decisions of The Netherlands, the Czech Republic and
the United States and their respective taxing and other authorities available on
or before such date and now in effect. All of the foregoing is subject to
change, which change could apply retroactively and could affect the continued
validity of this summary.
Because it is a general summary, holders of the Notes should consult their own
tax advisors as to the Dutch, Czech, United States or other tax consequences of
the purchase, ownership and disposition of the Notes, including, in particular,
the application to their particular situations of the tax considerations
discussed below, as well as the application of state, local, foreign or other
tax laws.
Netherlands Taxation
All payments under the Notes may be made free of withholding or deduction for or
on account of any taxes of whatsoever nature imposed, levied, withheld or
assessed by The Netherlands or any political subdivision or taxing authority
thereof or therein.
A holder of a Note will not be subject to Dutch taxation on (deemed) income or
capital gains in respect of the Note, unless: (i) such holder is, or is deemed
to be, resident in The Netherlands, or is an individual who has elected to be
taxed as a resident of the Netherlands; or (ii) such income or gain is
attributable to an enterprise or part thereof which is carried on through a
permanent establishment or permanent representative in The Netherlands; or (iii)
such holder is an individual and such income or gain qualifies as `benefits from
miscellaneous activities' (resultaat uit overige werkzaamheden) in The
Netherlands, which would, for instance, be the case if an individual performs
activities in The Netherlands with respect to the Notes that exceed normal asset
management; or (iv) such holder is an individual who has, or certain persons
related or deemed related to that holder have, directly or indirectly, a
substantial interest, as defined in the Netherlands Income Tax Act 2001 (Wet
inkomstenbelasting 2001), in the issuer of the Notes, or in any company that
has, or that is part of a co-operation (samenwerkingsverband) that has, legally
or in fact, directly or indirectly, the disposition of any part of the proceeds
of the Notes; or (v) such holder is an entity and has, directly or indirectly, a
substantial interest or a deemed substantial interest, as defined in the
Netherlands Income Tax Act 2001 (Wet inkomstenbelasting 2001), in the issuer
(unless the holder of the Note and the issuer thereof qualify for application of
EU Council Directive 2003/49/EC as implemented in article 17a-2 of the Dutch
Corporate Income Tax Act 1969 (Wet op de vennootschapsbelasting 1969)), or, in
the event that that holder does have such interest, it forms part of the assets
of an enterprise; or (vi) such holder is entitled to a share in the
65
profits of, or has an interest in, an enterprise effectively managed in The
Netherlands other than by way of the holding of securities or through an
employment contract and the Note, the income or the gain is attributable to such
enterprise. If a holder of a Note is not a resident or a deemed resident in the
Netherlands, but is a resident in another country the following may apply. If a
double taxation convention is in effect between the Netherlands and the country
in which such holder of a Note is resident, such holder, may, depending on the
terms of and subject to compliance with the procedures for claiming benefits
under such double taxation convention, be eligible for a full or partial
exemption from Netherlands taxes (if any) on (deemed) income or capital gains in
respect of the a Note provided such holder is entitled to the benefits of that
treaty.
Dutch gift, estate or inheritance taxes will not be levied on the transfer of a
Note by way of gift by, or on the death of, a holder unless: (i) such holder is,
or is deemed to be, resident in The Netherlands; or (ii) the transfer is
construed as an inheritance or bequest or as a gift made by or on behalf of a
person who, at the time of the gift or his death, is or was a resident or a
deemed resident of The Netherlands; or (iii) such holder owns an enterprise or
an interest in an enterprise which is carried on through a permanent
establishment or a permanent representative in The Netherlands to which or to
whom the Note is attributable; or (iv) such holder is entitled to a share in the
profits of an enterprise effectively managed in The Netherlands other than by
way of the holding of securities or through an employment contract and the Note,
the income or the gain is attributable to such enterprise.
There is no Dutch registration tax, capital tax, stamp duty or any other similar
tax or duty other than court fees, payable in The Netherlands by a holder of a
Note in respect of or in connection with the execution, delivery and enforcement
by legal proceedings (including any foreign judgment in the courts of The
Netherlands) of the Notes or the performance of the CEZ' obligations under the
Notes.
There is no Dutch value added tax payable by a holder of a Note in respect of
payments in consideration for the issue of the Notes or in respect of the
payment of interest or principal under the Notes or the transfer of the Notes.
A holder of a Note will not become resident, or be deemed to be resident, in The
Netherlands by reason only of the holding of a Note or the execution,
performance, delivery and/or enforcement of the Notes.
The Council of the European Union has on June 3, 2003 adopted a directive
regarding the taxation of savings income. Under this directive, subject to a
number of conditions being met, Member States will, as at July 1, 2005, be
required to provide to the competent authorities of another Member State
information (including the identity of the recipient) regarding payments of
interest or other similar income if the paying agent (as defined in the
directive, this not necessarily the debtor of the debt-claim producing the
interest) is resident in that Member State and the individual who is beneficial
owner of the interest payment is resident in that other Member State, subject to
the right of Belgium, Luxembourg and Austria to opt instead for a withholding
system during a transitional period.
Czech Republic Taxation
Payments Under the Guarantee to Holders of the Notes. In general, Czech
withholding tax would be levied at a flat rate of 15% on such payments by the
Guarantor under the Guarantee to Holders of the Notes who are not resident in
the Czech Republic that are referable to interest payable on the Notes or such
payments that are referable to repayment of principle amount of the Notes to the
extent such repayment exceeds the issue price of the Notes. No withholding tax
is levied if the beneficial owner of the interest is resident in the United
States, is eligible for the benefits of the applicable tax treaty between the
Czech Republic and the United States, and does not have a permanent
establishment or a fixed base in the Czech Republic. Similarly, withholding tax
at a reduced rate or no withholding tax may be levied if the beneficial owner of
the interest is resident of the state which has an applicable tax treaty with
the Czech Republic, the payments qualify as interest under such treaty and all
conditions for the application of such treaty are fulfilled.
Under the legislation implementing the Savings Directive of the European Union
which enters into force on July 1, 2005, agents paying interest income or other
similar income beneficially owned by an individual resident in another EU Member
State will be required to provide to the Czech tax authorities certain
information regarding the payments (including the identity of the beneficial
owner of the income).
Payments by CEZ to CEZ Finance B.V. In general, Czech withholding tax would be
levied at a flat rate of 15% on interest payments of CEZ to CEZ Finance B.V. to
enable CEZ Finance B.V. make payments of interest in respect of the Notes
(repayment of principle of the loan is not subject to withholding tax). Pursuant
to the applicable tax treaty between the Czech Republic and the Netherlands, the
withholding tax is not levied if CEZ Finance B.V. qualifies as
66
the beneficial owner of the interest, is eligible for the benefits of the tax
treaty between the Czech Republic and the Netherlands and does not have a
permanent establishment in the Czech Republic.
United States Federal Income Taxation
The following is a summary of the principal U.S. federal income tax consequences
of the acquisition, ownership and retirement of Notes by a holder thereof. This
summary only applies to Notes held as capital assets and does not address,
except as set forth below, aspects of U.S. federal income taxation that may be
applicable to holders that are subject to special tax rules, such as financial
institutions, insurance companies, real estate investment trusts, regulated
investment companies, grantor trusts, tax-exempt organizations or dealers or
traders in securities or currencies, or to holders that will hold a Note as part
of a position in a "straddle" or as part of a "hedging", "conversion" or
"integrated" transaction for U.S. federal income tax purposes or that have a
"functional currency" other than the U.S. dollar. Moreover, this summary does
not address the U.S. federal estate and gift or alternative minimum tax
consequences of the acquisition, ownership or retirement of Notes and does not
address the U.S. federal income tax treatment of holders that do not acquire
Notes as part of the initial distribution at their initial issue price. Each
prospective purchaser should consult its tax advisor with respect to the U.S.
federal, state, local and foreign tax consequences of acquiring, holding and
disposing of Notes.
This summary is based on the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, existing
and proposed Treasury Regulations, administrative pronouncements and judicial
decisions, each as available and in effect on the date hereof. All of the
foregoing are subject to change (possibly with retroactive effect) or differing
interpretations which could affect the tax consequences described herein.
For purposes of this summary, a "U.S. Holder" is a beneficial owner of Notes who
for U.S. federal income tax purposes is (i) a citizen or resident of the United
States; (ii) a corporation or a partnership organized in or under the laws of
the United States or any State thereof (including the District of Columbia);
(iii) an estate the income of which is subject to U.S. federal income taxation
regardless of its source; or (iv) a trust (1) that validly elects to be treated
as a United States person for U.S. federal income tax purposes or (2)(a) the
administration over which a U.S. court can exercise primary supervision and (b)
all of the substantial decisions of which one or more United States persons have
the authority to control. A "Non-U.S. Holder" is a beneficial owner of Notes
other than a U.S. Holder.
If a partnership (or any other entity treated as a partnership for U.S. federal
income tax purposes) holds Notes, the tax treatment of the partnership and a
partner in such partnership will generally depend on the status of the partner
and the activities of the partnership. Such partnership or partner should
consult its own tax advisor as to its consequences.
Interest
Interest paid on a Note or under the CEZ guarantee thereof (including the amount
of any Dutch or Czech withholding tax thereon and any Additional Amounts) will
be includible in a U.S. Holder's gross income as ordinary interest income in
accordance with the U.S. Holder's usual method of tax accounting. In addition,
interest on the Notes or under the CEZ guarantee will be treated as foreign
source income for U.S. federal income tax purposes. For U.S. foreign tax credit
limitation purposes, interest on the Notes generally will constitute "passive
income," or, in the case of certain U.S. Holders, "financial services income,"
while interest paid under the Guarantee would constitute "high withholding tax
interest" payments if such interest is subject to withholding tax at a rate of
5% or more. U.S. holders should note, however, that recently enacted legislation
eliminates the "financial services income" and "high withholding tax interest"
categories for taxable years beginning after December 31, 2006. Under the
recently enacted legislation, the foreign tax credit limitation categories would
be limited to "passive category income" and "general category income".
Subject to the discussion below under the caption "U.S. Backup Withholding Tax
and Information Reporting," payments of interest on a Note to a Non-U.S. Holder
generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax unless such income is
effectively connected with the conduct by such Non-U.S. Holder of a trade or
business in the United States.
Sale, Exchange or Retirement
Upon the sale, exchange or retirement of a Note, a U.S. Holder will recognize
taxable gain or loss equal to the difference, if any, between the amount
realized on the sale, exchange or retirement (other than accrued but unpaid
67
interest which will be taxable as such) and the U.S. Holder's adjusted tax basis
in such Note. A U.S. Holder's adjusted tax basis in a Note generally will equal
the cost of such Note to the Holder. Such gain or loss generally will be capital
gain or loss. In the case of a non-corporate U.S. Holder, the maximum marginal
U.S. federal income tax rate applicable to such gain will be lower than the
maximum marginal U.S. federal income tax rate applicable to ordinary income
(other than certain dividends) if such U.S. Holder's holding period for such
Note exceeds one year. Any gain or loss realized on the sale, exchange or
retirement of a Note generally will be treated as U.S. source gain or loss, as
the case may be. The deductibility of capital losses is subject to limitations.
Subject to the discussion below under the caption "U.S. Backup Withholding Tax
and Information Reporting," any gain realized by a Non-U.S. Holder upon the
sale, exchange or retirement of a Note generally will not be subject to U.S.
federal income tax, unless (i) such gain is effectively connected with the
conduct by such Non-U.S. Holder of a trade or business in the United States or
(ii) in the case of any gain realized by an individual Non-U.S. Holder, such
holder is present in the United States for 183 days or more in the taxable year
of such sale, exchange or retirement and certain other conditions are met.
U.S. Backup Withholding Tax and Information Reporting
United States backup withholding tax and information reporting requirements
generally apply to certain payments of principal of, and interest on, an
obligation and to proceeds of the sale or redemption of an obligation, to
certain non-corporate holders of Notes that are United States persons.
Information reporting generally will apply to payments of principal of, and
interest on, an obligation and to proceeds of the sale or redemption of an
obligation made within the United States, or by a United States payor or United
States middleman, to a holder of an obligation (other than an "exempt
recipient", including a corporation and certain other persons). The payor will
be required to withhold backup withholding tax on payments made within the
United States, or by a United States payor or United States middleman, on a Note
to a holder of a Note that is a United States person, other than an exempt
recipient, such as a corporation, if the holder fails to furnish its correct
taxpayer identification number or otherwise fails to comply with, or establish
an exemption from, the backup withholding requirements. Payments within the
United States, or by a United States payor or United States middleman, of
principal and interest to a holder of a Note that is not a United States person
will not be subject to backup withholding tax and information reporting
requirements if an appropriate certification is provided by the holder to the
payor and the payor does not have actual knowledge or a reason to know that the
certificate is incorrect. The backup withholding tax rate is 28% for years
through 2010.
In the case of such payments made within the United States to a "foreign simple
trust," a "foreign grantor trust" or a foreign partnership (other than payments
to a foreign simple trust, a foreign grantor trust or a foreign partnership that
qualifies as a "withholding foreign trust" or a "withholding foreign
partnership" within the meaning of the applicable U.S. Treasury Regulations and
payments to a foreign simple trust, a foreign grantor trust or a foreign
partnership that are effectively connected with the conduct of a trade or
business in the United States), the beneficiaries of the foreign simple trust,
the persons treated as the owners of the foreign grantor trust or the partners
of the foreign partnership, as the case may be, will be required to provide the
certification discussed above in order to establish an exemption from backup
withholding tax and information reporting requirements. Moreover, a payor may
rely on a certification provided by a payee that is not a United States person
only if such payor does not have actual knowledge or a reason to know that any
information or certification stated in such certificate is incorrect.
Internal Revenue Service Circular 230 Disclosure
Pursuant to Internal Revenue Service Circular 230, we hereby inform you that the
description and opinion set forth herein with respect to U.S. federal tax issues
were not intended or written to be used, and such description and opinion cannot
be used by any taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding any penalties that may be
imposed on the taxpayer under the U.S. Internal Revenue Code. Such description
and opinions were written to support the marketing of the Notes. This
description is limited to the U.S. federal tax issues described herein. It is
possible that additional issues may exist that could affect the U.S. federal tax
treatment of an investment in the Notes, or the matter that is the subject of
the opinion noted herein, and this description does not consider or provide any
conclusions with respect to any such additional issues. Taxpayers should seek
advice based on the taxpayer's particular circumstances from an independent tax
advisor.
THE ABOVE SUMMARY IS NOT INTENDED TO CONSTITUTE A COMPLETE ANALYSIS OF ALL TAX
CONSEQUENCES RELATING TO THE OWNERSHIP OF NOTES. PROSPECTIVE PURCHASERS OF NOTES
SHOULD CONSULT THEIR OWN TAX ADVISORS CONCERNING THE TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THEIR
PARTICULAR SITUATIONS.
68
Payment of Additional Amounts
CEZ Finance B.V. is required to make all payments in respect of the Notes and
the Guarantor is required to make all payments in respect of the Guarantees,
free and clear of, and without withholding or deduction for any present or
future taxes, duties or fines (or interest thereon) imposed by The Netherlands,
the Czech Republic or any political subdivision thereof (collectively, "Tax" or
"Taxes"), unless such withholding or deduction is required by law. In such event
CEZ Finance B.V. or CEZ is required to pay such additional amounts ("Additional
Amounts") as may be necessary to ensure that the amounts received by the holders
of the Notes after such withholding or deduction shall equal the amounts of
principal, interest and premium, if any, which would have been receivable in
respect of the Notes in the absence of such withholding or deduction.
No such Additional Amounts shall be payable, however, in respect of any Note or
Guarantee (i) in the case of payments for which presentation of such Note is
required, presented for payment more than 30 days after the later of (a) the
date on which such payment first became due and (b) if the full amount payable
has not been received in the Place of Payment by the Trustee on or prior to such
due date, the date on which, the full amount having been so received, notice to
that effect shall have been given to the holders by the Trustee, except to the
extent that the holder of the Notes would have been entitled to such Additional
Amounts on presenting such note for payment on the last day of such period of 30
days, (ii) held by or on behalf of a holder of the Notes who is liable for Taxes
in respect of such Notes by reason of having some present or former connection
between such holder (or between a fiduciary, settlor, beneficiary, member or
shareholder of such holder, if such holder is an estate, trust a partnership or
a corporation) and The Netherlands or the Czech Republic including, without
limitation, such holder (or such fiduciary, settlor, beneficiary, member or
shareholder) being or having been a citizen or resident thereof or being or
having been engaged in a trade or business or present therein or having, or
having had, a permanent establishment therein, other than the mere holding of
such notes or the receipt of amounts in respect thereof, (iii) as a result of
any estate, inheritance, gift, sales, transfer or personal property Tax or any
similar Tax, (iv) as a result of any Tax which is payable otherwise than by
withholding from payments on or in respect of any Note, or (v) as a result of
any Tax which would not have been imposed but for the failure to comply with
certification, information or other reporting requirements concerning the
nationality, residence or identity of the holder or beneficial owner of such
Note, if such compliance is required by statute or by regulation of The
Netherlands or the Czech Republic or of any political subdivision or taxing
authority thereof or therein as a precondition to relief or exemption from such
Tax and requested by the Company or CEZ Finance B.V.; nor shall Additional
Amounts be paid with respect to any payment on a Note to a holder who is a
fiduciary or partnership or other than the sole beneficial owner of such payment
to the extent such payment would be required to be included in the income, for
tax purposes, of a beneficiary or settler with respect to such fiduciary or a
member of such partnership or a beneficial owner who would not have been
entitled to the Additional Amounts had such beneficiary, settlor, member or
beneficial owner been the holder of the Note.
DOCUMENTS ON DISPLAY
CEZ, a.s. is subject to the informational requirements of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. In accordance with these requirements, we file
reports and other information with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These
materials, including this Annual Report and the exhibits thereto, may be
inspected and copied at the Commission's Public Reference Room at 450 Fifth
Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20549 and at the Commission's regional offices at
500 West Madison Street, Suite 1400, Chicago, Illinois 60661, and 233 Broadway,
New York, New York 10279. Copies of the materials may be obtained from the
Public Reference Room of the Commission at 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington,
D.C. 20549 at prescribed rates. The public may obtain information on the
operation of the Commission's Public Reference Room by calling the Commission in
the United States at 1-800-SEC-0330.
ITEM 11. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Risk identification and analyses
In the ordinary course of business, we are exposed to foreign currency risks,
interest rate risk, commodity price risks, and counterparty (or repayment) risk.
These risks create volatility in equity, earnings and cash flow from period to
period. We make use of derivative instruments in order to manage currency risk
and interest rate risk. We generally utilize established and widely used foreign
exchange and interest rate derivatives.
69
As part of our risk management system, we utilize instruments such as interest
rate swaps, cross currency swaps and foreign exchange forwards and options,
seeking to reduce our risk exposure by entering into offsetting market
positions.
Foreign Exchange Rate Risk Management
Due to international nature of our certain business activities, we are exposed
to foreign exchange risk related to sales, purchases, financial assets and
liabilities denominated in currencies other than CZK. According to our foreign
exchange policy guidelines, we hedge material foreign exchange transaction
exposure. This exposure is mainly hedged with derivative financial instruments
such as forwards, swaps and options. However, we elected not to treat the
derivatives as hedging instruments in the financial statements. Financial
instruments that are used to hedge foreign exchange risk have maximum maturity
till year 2008.
The break-down by currency of our underlying foreign exchange transaction
exposure at December 31,2004 was as follows: USD 22%, EUR 47%, and CZK 31%.
We use the Value at Risk (or VaR), methodology to assess the foreign exchange
risk related to the treasury management exposure. The VaR figure represents the
potential losses for a portfolio resulting from adverse changes in market
factors using a specified time period and confidence level based on historical
data.
The VaR figures for the whole portfolio including loans and derivatives in a
one-year horizon and 95 % confidence interval are shown in Table 1, below.
Table 1 Transaction foreign exchange position Value at Risk
Value at Risk (VaR) 2002 2003 2004
(in million of CZK)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------
At December 31 1,612 1,467 1,483
Average for the year 1,538 1,322 1,385
Range for the year 1,316 - 1,788 1,023 - 1,524 1,123 - 1,573
Interest Rate Risk Management
Several financial assets and liabilities in our balance sheet, as well as the
derivatives, bear fixed interest rates and are therefore subject to changes in
fair value resulting from changes in market interest rates. We also face a
similar risk with regard to balance sheet items bearing floating interest rates,
as changes in the interest rates will affect our cash flows. We seek to maintain
a desired mix of floating-rate and fixed-rate debt in its overall debt
portfolio. We use interest rate swaps, cross currency interest rate swaps and
interest rate options to allow us to diversify our sources of funding and to
reduce the impact of interest rate volatility on our financial condition.
The tables below provide information about our derivative financial instruments
and other financial instruments that are sensitive to changes in interest rates,
including interest rate swaps and debt obligations. For debt obligations, the
table presents principal cash flows in corresponding year and related weighted
average interest rates by expected maturity dates. For interest rate swaps, the
table presents notional amounts and weighted average interest rates by expected
(contractual) maturity dates. Notional amounts are used to calculate the
contractual payments to be exchanged under the contract. Fair values are
calculated as at December 31, 2004. The information is presented in CZK, which
is our reporting currency.
Table 2 Variable to variable derivatives
Outstanding notional amounts
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Derivatives 2005 2006 2007 2008 Fair Value
(in million of CZK, except percentages)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Variable to Variable (USD 12M Libor / USD 6M Libor)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notional Amounts 316 231 147 63 (8)
Average Pay Rate 12M Libor* 12M Libor* 12M Libor* 12M Libor*
Average Receive Rate 6M Libor 6M Libor 6M Libor 6M Libor
70
Variable to Variable (USD 12M Libor / USD 6M Libor)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notional Amounts 559 559 559 - (7)
Average Pay Rate 12M Libor** 12M Libor** 12M Libor** -
Average Receive Rate 6M Libor 6M Libor 6M Libor -
Variable to Variable (CZK Pribor / USD Libor)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notional Amounts 430 315 201 86 (130)
6M Pribor 6M Pribor 6M Pribor 6M Pribor
Average Pay Rate +0.85% +0.85% +0.85% +0.85%
6M Libor 6M Libor 6M Libor 6M Libor
Average Receive Rate +0.3% +0.3% +0.3% +0.3%
* If interest rate is in interval from 4.83% to 6.9%, we pay 4.83%
** If interest rate is in interval from 4.92% to 4.97%, we pay 4.92%
Table 3 Fixed to variable derivatives
Outstanding notional amounts
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Derivatives 2005 2006 2007 2008 Fair Value
(in million of CZK, except percentages)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fixed to Variable (EUR Euribor)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notional Amounts 1,523 1,523 - - 13
Average Pay Rate 6M Euribor* 6M Euribor* - -
Average Receive Rate 7.25% 7.25% - -
Fixed to Variable (CZK Pribor)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notional Amounts 2,296 2,296 2,296 - (388)
6M Pribor 6M Pribor
Average Pay Rate 6M Pribor 1.25% 1.25% 1.25% -
Average Receive Rate 7.125% 7.125% 7.125% -
Fixed to Variable (CZK Pribor)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notional Amounts 1,845 1,845 (247)
6M Pribor 6M Pribor
Average Pay Rate -4.68% -4.68%
Average Receive Rate 0% 0%
Fixed to Variable (CZK Pribor)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notional Amounts 1,833 1,833 (281)
6M Pribor 6M Pribor
Average Pay Rate +2.84% +2.84%
Average Receive Rate 7.25% 7.25%
Fixed to Variable (CZK Pribor)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notional Amounts 925 925 - (154)
6M Pribor 6M Pribor
Average Pay Rate +2.62% +2.62%
Average Receive Rate 7.25% 7.25%
* If interest rate is lower than 7.25%, we pay 6.665%.
Table 4 Variable to fixed derivatives
Outstanding notional amounts
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Derivatives 2005 2006 2007 2008 Fair Value
71
(in million of CZK, except percentages)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Variable to Fixed (USD Libor)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notional Amounts 1,268 705 141 (662)
Average Pay Rate 3.07% 3.07% 3.07%
6M Libor 6M Libor 6M Libor
Average Receive Rate +0.3% +0.3% +0.3%
Variable to Fixed (EUR Libor)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notional Amounts 2,000 1,764 1,646 (11)
Average Pay Rate 3.245% 3.245% 3.245%
6M Pribor - 6M Pribor - 6M Pribor -
Average Receive Rate -0.05% -0.05% 0.05%
Variable to Fixed (EUR Libor)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notional Amounts 524 384 245 2
Average Pay Rate 6M Libor* 6M Libor* 6M Libor*
Average Receive Rate 6M Libor 6M Libor 6M Libor
* If interest rate is lower than 3.75%, we pay 2%.
Remaining derivatives with their fair value of minus 2,032 million CZK as at
December 31, 2004 represent fix to fix currency swaps, which are not subject to
significant interest rate risk.
Table 5 Debt obligations denominated in USD
Expected Maturity Date
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Obligations 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 Thereafter Total Fair
Value
(in million of CZK, except percentages)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fixed rate debt denominated in USD
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yankee bonds due 2007 at 7.125% - - 3,962 - - - 3,962 4,283
Long-term debt 95 95 95 95 95 377 852 975
Weighted average interest rate,
related to long-tem debt 7.1% 7.1% 7.1% 7.1% 7.1% 7.1%
Variable rate debt denominated in USD
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Long-term debt 1,134 1,134 1,655 322 - - 4,245 4,306
Libor Libor Libor Libor
Weighted average interest rate +0.39% +0.39% +0.43% +0.38%
Table 6 Debt obligations denominated in EUR
Expected Maturity Date
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fair
Obligations 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 Thereafter Total Value
(in million of CZK, except percentages)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fixed rate debt denominated in EUR
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Euro bonds due 2011 at 4.625% - - 12,101 - - - 12,101 12,687
Euro bonds due 2006 at 7.25% - - 6,233 - - - 6,233 6,559
Long-term debt 193 156 105 105 105 420 1,084 1,200
Weighted average interest rate,
related to long-tem debt 5,9% 5.6% 5.6% 5.6% 5.6% 5.6%
Variable rate debt denominated in EUR
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Long-term debt 127 78 37 0 0 0 242 243
Euribor Euribor Euribor
Weighted average interest rate +0.21% +0.16% +0.16% -
Table 7 Debt obligations denominated in CZK
Expected Maturity Date
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Obligations 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 Thereafter Total Fair Value
(in million of CZK, except percentages)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fixed rate debt denominated in CZK
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
6th issue of zerocoupon bonds due
2009 - - - - 3,299 3,299 3,843
7th issue due 2014 at 9,22%,
since 2006 variable rate CPI +
4,2% - - - - - 2,494 2,494 2,625
9th issue due 2008 at 3,35% 2,990 2,990 2,984
6M Pribor +0.4%, due 2005 1,000 - - - - - 1,000 1,000
6M Pribor +1.3%, due 2005 500 - - - - - 500 500
Long-term debt 147 55 43 - 245 260
Weighted average interest rate,
related to long-tem debt 5.3% 8.1% 10.2%
Short-term debt 240 - - - - - 240 240
Weighted average interest rate,
related to long-term debt 3.2%
Variable rate debt denominated in CZK
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Long-term debt 265 265 265 265 265 1,057 2,382 2,383
Pribor Pribor Pribor Pribor Pribor Pribor
Weighted average interest rate -0.06% -0.06% -0.06% -0.06% -0.06% -0.06%
ITEM 12. DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES
Not applicable.
PART II
ITEM 13. DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES
None.
ITEM 14. MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS AND USE OF
PROCEEDS
Not applicable.
ITEM 15. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer, after evaluating
the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule
13a-14(c) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) as of the
73
end of the period covered by this Annual Report, have concluded that, as of such
date, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective.
There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that
occurred during the year ended December 31, 2004 that have materially affected,
or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over
financial reporting.
ITEM 16A. AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT
Our Supervisory Board has determined that Mr. Pavel Suchy is an "audit committee
financial expert" serving on the Audit Committee.
ITEM 16B. CODE OF ETHICS
Our Board of Directors adopted a code of ethics that applies to our Chief
Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, and Principal Accounting Officer.
This code of ethics for financial matters is posted on our website, www.cez.cz,
and may be found as follows:
1. From our main web page first click on "For investors."
2. Next, click on "Corporate governance."
3. Finally, click on "Code of Ethics."
ITEM 16C. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES
Ernst & Young served as our independent public accountant for each of the fiscal
years in the two-year period ended December 31, 2004, for which audited
financial statements appear in this annual report. The auditor is selected based
on a public tender and approved by our Supervisory Board and Audit Committee. We
have selected Ernst & Young as our auditor also for 2005.
The following table presents the aggregate fees for professional services and
other services rendered by Ernst & Young to us in 2004 and 2003.
2003 2004
---- ----
(CZK millions)
Audit Fees(1) 17.2 30.7
Audit-related Fees(2) 31.1 15.8
Tax Fees(3) 1.4 1.7
All other Fees(4) 0.5 0.0
---------- ----------
Total 50.2 48.2
========== ==========
(1) Audit Fees consist of fees billed for the annual audit of the company's
consolidated financial statements and the financial statements of the
company's subsidiaries. They also include fees billed for other audit
services, which are those services that only the external auditor
reasonably can provide, and include the provision of comfort letters and
consents, attestation services relating to internal controls and the
review of documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
(2) Audit-related Fees consist of fees billed for assurance and related
services that are reasonably related to the performance of the audit or
review of the company's financial statements or that are traditionally
performed by the external auditor, and include post acquisition due
diligence of REAS, audit of subsidiary CEPS, a. s. in connection with its
sale, general accounting advice in the area of derivates hedging and
consolidation and internal control reviews.
(3) Tax Fees include fees billed for tax consultations, such as assistance in
connection with tax audits and appeals and advice on various corporate
income tax issues.
(4) All other fees include fees billed for training related to European union
accession and comparative study of European utilities.
AUDIT COMMITTEE PRE-APPROVAL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
Our Audit Committee is responsible mainly for the oversight of internal audit
department and communication with independent registered accounting firm. Under
Czech law, the Board of Directors is required to make all decisions regarding
our Company, unless the authority to make a decision is delegated by statute or
by articles of association to the General Meeting or to the Supervisory Board.
It is not possible that our Audit Committee take decisions on its own, without
appropriate formal action being taken by the Board of Directors, General
Meeting, or the Supervisory Board. For these reasons, our Supervisory Board is
in fact formally making certain decisions generally required to be made by the
Audit Committee. The Supervisory Board is a board of non-executive directors
and,
74
among other decisions, it approves the selection of independent registered
accounting firm, their fees and pre-approves audit and non-audit services. Our
Audit Committee is also involved in these processes but only through its
consideration and discussion of the matters to be formally approved by our
Supervisory Board.
During 2004 our Audit Committee discussed, and our Supervisory Board formally
pre-approved our independent auditor's services on a case-by-case basis for
specific projects, such as due diligence engagements, or a general pre-approval
was granted in areas such as tax services. All services, which were performed
during 2004 by our independent registered accounting firm and fall under the
pre-approval requirement, were discussed by our Audit Committee and were
formally pre-approved by our Supervisory Board. Neither our Audit Committee nor
our Supervisory Board delegated any of their pre-approval authorities to any
other committee or person.
ITEM 16D. EXEMPTIONS FROM THE LISTING STANDARDS FOR AUDIT COMMITTEES
Not applicable.
PART III
ITEM 17. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The Company has elected to provide financial statements for the fiscal year
ended December 31, 2004 and the related information pursuant to Item 18.
ITEM 18. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The following financial statements are filed as part of this Annual Report on
Form 20-F:
Report of independent registered accounting firm......................................... F-1
Consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2004 and 2003............................. F-2
Consolidated statements of income for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2003, and 2002.. F-4
Consolidated statements of shareholders' equity for the years ended December 31, 2004,
2003, and 2002........................................................................ F-5
Consolidated statements of cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2003, and
2002.................................................................................. F-6
Notes to consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2004....................... F-8
ITEM 19. EXHIBITS
1.* Articles of Association (Stanovy) of CEZ, a. s.
4.1* Collective Bargaining Agreement, dated January 29, 2004
4.2 Share Privatization Sale Agreement between the Republic of Bulgaria
and CEZ, a. s., dated November 19, 2004
8. List of Subsidiaries
12.1 Certification of Martin Roman, our Chief Executive Officer, pursuant
to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
12.2 Certification of Petr Voboril, our Chief Financial Officer, pursuant
to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
13.** Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant
to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
* This exhibit is incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our
Annual Report on Form 20-F dated June 30, 2004.
** This document is being furnished in accordance with SEC Release Nos.
33-8212 and 34-47551.
75
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and the Supervisory Board of CEZ, a. s.:
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of the CEZ, a. s.,
and subsidiaries ("the Company") as of December 31, 2004 and 2003 and the
related consolidated statements of income, shareholders' equity and cash flows
for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2004. These
financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our
responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on
our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company
Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those Standards require that we plan
and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial
statements are free of material misstatement. We were not engaged to perform an
audit of the Company's internal control over financial reporting. Our audit
included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis
for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but
not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the
Company's internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no
such opinion. An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence
supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing
the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and
evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our
audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in
all material respects, the consolidated financial position of CEZ, a. s., and
subsidiaries at December 31, 2004 and 2003, and the consolidated results of
their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period
ended December 31, 2004, in conformity with International Financial Reporting
Standards, which differ in certain respects from accounting principles generally
accepted in the United States of America (see note 30 to the consolidated
financial statements).
As discussed in Note 2.4(a) to the consolidated financial statements, in 2004
the Company changed its method of accounting for changes in existing
decommissioning and restoration liabilities.
Ernst & Young
July 12, 2005
Prague, Czech Republic
F-1
CEZ, A. S., AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2004 and 2003
in CZK Millions
2004 2003 *)
----------- -----------
Assets
Property, plant and equipment:
Plant in service 374,731 366,594
Less accumulated provision for depreciation 165,878 149,776
----------- -----------
Net plant in service (Note 3) 208,853 216,818
Nuclear fuel, at amortized cost 7,956 9,574
Construction work in progress 10,626 10,204
----------- -----------
Total property, plant and equipment 227,435 236,596
Other non-current assets:
Investment in associates 7,474 10,999
Investments and other financial assets, net (Note 4) 19,690 8,642
Intangible assets, net (Note 5) 3,294 1,997
Deferred tax assets (Note 21) 189 288
----------- -----------
Total other non-current assets 30,647 21,926
----------- -----------
Total non-current assets 258,082 258,522
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents (Note 8) 7,545 4,014
Receivables, net (Note 9) 8,904 7,064
Income tax receivable 26 103
Materials and supplies, net 3,184 3,242
Fossil fuel stocks 739 979
Other current assets (Note 10) 2,335 4,299
----------- -----------
Total current assets 22,733 19,701
----------- -----------
Total assets 280,815 278,223
=========== ===========
*) Comparative information has been restated (see Note 2.4(a)).
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements.
F-2
CEZ, A. S., AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2004 and 2003
continued
2004 2003 *)
----------- -----------
Shareholders' equity and liabilities
Shareholders' equity:
Stated capital 59,218 59,152
Retained earnings and other reserves 104,471 93,472
----------- -----------
Total shareholders' equity (Note 11) 163,689 152,624
Minority interest 5,282 7,893
Long-term liabilities:
Long-term debt, net of current portion (Note 12) 38,190 30,965
Accumulated provision for nuclear decommissioning
and fuel storage (Note 14) 29,441 28,164
Other long-term liabilities 5,192 5,206
----------- -----------
Total long-term liabilities 72,823 64,335
Deferred tax liability (Note 21) 16,008 15,863
Current liabilities:
Short-term loans (Note 15) 240 2,320
Current portion of long-term debt (Note 12) 3,439 5,691
Trade and other payables (Note 17) 12,409 20,579
Income taxes payable 1,021 3,203
Accrued liabilities (Note 18) 5,904 5,715
----------- -----------
Total current liabilities 23,013 37,508
----------- -----------
Total shareholders' equity and liabilities 280,815 278,223
=========== ===========
*) Comparative information has been restated (see Note 2.4(a)).
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements.
F-3
CEZ, A. S., AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2004, 2003 and 2002
in CZK Millions
2004 2003 *) 2002 *)
----------- ------------ ------------
Revenues:
Sales of electricity (Note 19) 92,748 79,548 52,938
Heat sales and other revenues 7,417 5,268 2,640
----------- ------------ ------------
Total revenues 100,165 84,816 55,578
Operating expenses:
Fuel 14,370 14,307 12,894
Purchased power and related services 26,511 21,100 7,328
Repairs and maintenance 4,420 4,226 3,847
Depreciation and amortization 18,384 16,961 11,721
Salaries and wages 9,644 7,994 3,854
Materials and supplies 3,769 3,670 1,838
Other operating expenses (Note 20) 3,912 3,554 2,873
----------- ------------ ------------
Total expenses 81,010 71,812 44,355
----------- ------------ ------------
Income before other expenses (income) and income taxes 19,155 13,004 11,223
Other expenses (income):
Interest on debt, net of capitalized interest (Note 2.9) 1,864 1,714 582
Interest on nuclear provisions (Note 2.23 and 14) 1,965 1,680 1,532
Interest income (329) (319) (149)
Foreign exchange rate losses (gains), net (1,766) (1,915) (3,340)
Other expenses (income), net (Note 22) 227 2,170 1,299
Income from associates (Note 2.3) (734) (1,063) (497)
----------- ------------ ------------
Total other expenses (income) 1,227 2,267 (573)
----------- ------------ ------------
Income before income taxes 17,928 10,737 11,796
Income taxes (Note 21) 3,845 1,349 3,375
----------- ------------ ------------
Income after income taxes 14,083 9,388 8,421
Minority interest 1,024 519 -
----------- ------------ ------------
Net income 13,059 8,869 8,421
=========== ============ ============
Net income per share (CZK per share) (Note 26)
Basic 22.1 15.0 14.3
Diluted 22.1 15.0 14.2
Average number of shares outstanding (000s) (Notes 11 and 26)
Basic 592,075 590,772 590,363
Diluted 592,211 592,211 592,150
*) Comparative information has been restated (see Note 2.4(a)).
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements.
F-4
CEZ, A. S., AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2004, 2003 and 2002
in CZK Millions
Number of Fair value
Shares (in Stated Translation and Other Retained Total
thousand) Capital Difference Reserves Earnings Equity
------------ ------------ ------------ ----------- ----------- ---------
December 31, 2001 590,138 59,050 - - 77,676 136,726
Additional paid-in capital 123 12 - - - 12
Net income - - - - 8,421 8,421
Acquisition of treasury shares (1,950) (181) - - - (181)
Sale of treasury shares 1,965 160 - - 17 177
Dividends declared - - - - (1,480) (1,480)
----------- ------------ ------------ ----------- ----------- ---------
December 31, 2002 as previously reported 590,276 59,041 - - 84,634 143,675
Change in accounting policy - effect of change
in group structure (Note 2.4(b)) - - - - 609 609
----------- ------------ ------------ ----------- ----------- ---------
January 1, 2003, as restated 590,276 59,041 - - 85,243 144,284
Net income - - - - 8,869 8,869
Change in fair value of available-for-sale
financial assets recognized in equity - - - (101) - (101)
Gain on sale of subsidiary CEPS, net of tax
(Note 25) - - - - 7,162 7,162
Effect of acquisition of REAS on equity (Note 6) - - - - (5,023) (5,023)
Sale of treasury shares 1,190 111 - - (5) 106
Dividends declared - - - - (2,657) (2,657)
Returned dividends on treasury shares - - - - 4 4
Share options - - - 21 - 21
Share on equity movements of associates - - - - (25) (25)
Other movements - - 1 (1) (16) (16)
----------- ------------ ------------ ----------- ----------- ---------
December 31, 2003 591,466 59,152 1 (81) 93,552 152,624
Net income - - - - 13,059 13,059
Change in fair value of available-for-sale
financial assets recognized in equity - - - 55 - 55
Change in fair value of cash flow hedges
recognized in equity - - - (690) - (690)
Cash flow hedges removed from equity - - - 621 - 621
Gain on sale of subsidiary CEPS, net of tax
(Note 25) - - - - 2,436 2,436
Effect of acquisition of SKODA PRAHA on equity
(Note 6) - - - - 331 331
Acquisition of treasury shares (2,355) (488) - - - (488)
Sale of treasury shares 3,090 554 - - (223) 331
Dividends declared - - - - (4,738) (4,738)
Share options - - - 130 - 130
Share on equity movements of associates - - - - 34 34
Other movements - - (3) - (13) (16)
----------- ------------ ------------ ----------- ----------- ---------
December 31, 2004 592,201 59,218 (2) 35 104,438 163,689
=========== ============ ============ =========== =========== =========
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements.
F-5
CEZ, A. S., AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2004, 2003 and 2002
in CZK Millions
2004 2003 *) 2002 *)
--------- --------- ----------
Operating activities:
Income before income taxes 17,928 10,737 11,796
Adjustments to reconcile income before income taxes to net cash provided by
operating activities:
Depreciation, amortization and asset write-offs 18,522 16,969 11,735
Amortization of nuclear fuel 3,391 3,484 2,071
(Gain) loss on fixed asset retirements, net (1,137) (384) (363)
Foreign exchange rate loss (gain), net (1,766) (1,915) (3,340)
Interest expense, interest income and dividend income, net 1,308 1,054 356
Provision for nuclear decommissioning and fuel storage 538 228 641
Provisions for doubtful accounts, environmental claims and other
adjustments (1,251) 1,602 (53)
Income from associates (734) (1,063) (497)
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Receivables 2,387 1,137 (282)
Materials and supplies 285 (152) 44
Fossil fuel stocks 240 (343) 39
Other current assets 715 1,903 334
Trade and other payables (1,836) 2,142 353
Accrued liabilities 521 1,103 (363)
--------- --------- ----------
Cash generated from operations 39,111 36,502 22,471
Income taxes paid (6,425) (44) (3,395)
Interest paid, net of capitalized interest (1,478) (1,601) (434)
Interest received 327 316 149
Dividends received 1,322 587 210
--------- --------- ----------
Net cash provided by operating activities 32,857 35,760 19,001
--------- --------- ----------
Investing activities:
Acquisition of subsidiaries, net of cash acquired (Note 6) (18,166) (28,374) -
Proceeds from disposal of a subsidiary, net of cash disposed of - 12,208 -
Additions to property, plant and equipment and other non-current
assets, including capitalized interest (Note 2.9) (14,501) (23,942) (10,419)
Proceeds from sales of fixed assets 4,760 9,585 1,078
Change in decommissioning and other restricted funds (443) (407) (594)
--------- --------- ----------
Total cash used in investing activities (28,350) (30,930) (9,935)
--------- --------- ----------
*) Comparative information has been restated (see Note 2.4(a)).
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements.
F-6
CEZ, A. S., AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2004, 2003 and 2002
continued
2004 2003 *) 2002 *)
--------- --------- ----------
Financing activities:
Proceeds from borrowings 15,004 31,284 8,446
Payments of borrowings (10,419) (33,736) (13,864)
Proceeds from other long-term liabilities 96 131 -
Payments of other long-term liabilities (373) (66) -
Dividends paid to Company's shareholders (4,724) (2,640) (1,480)
Dividends paid to minority interests (117) (227) -
Acquisition / sale of treasury shares (156) 106 (4)
--------- --------- ----------
Total cash used in financing activities (689) (5,148) (6,902)
--------- --------- ----------
Net effect of currency translation in cash (287) (59) (219)
--------- --------- ----------
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 3,531 (377) 1,945
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period 4,014 4,225 2,280
Effect of change in group structure on opening balance of cash and cash
equivalents - 166 -
--------- --------- ----------
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period, as restated 4,014 4,391 2,280
--------- --------- ----------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period 7,545 4,014 4,225
========= ======== ==========
Supplementary cash flow information
Total cash paid for interest 2,029 2,538 2,562
========= ======== ==========
*) Comparative information has been restated (see Note 2.4(a)).
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements.
F-7
CEZ, A. S., AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2004
1. The Company
CEZ, a. s. ("CEZ" or "the Company") is a Czech Republic joint-stock company,
owned 67.6% at December 31, 2004 by the Czech Republic National Property Fund.
The remaining shares of the Company are publicly held. The address of the
Company's registered office is Duhova 2/1444, Praha 4, 140 53, Czech Republic.
The average number of employees of the Company and its consolidated subsidiaries
was 16,702, 16,093 and 7,806 for the year 2004, 2003 and 2002, respectively.
CEZ is an electricity generation company, which produced approximately 73% of
the electricity and a portion of the district heating in the Czech Republic in
2004. The Company sells majority of its electricity production to eight
distribution companies ("REAS") in the Czech Republic which distribute the
electricity to end customers (see Note 19). The Company operates ten fossil fuel
plants, thirteen hydroelectric plants and two nuclear plants.
The company is a parent company of the CEZ Group ("the Group"), which is
primarily engaged in the business of production, distribution and sale of
electricity (see Notes 2.3 and 7).
In December 2004 Czech Parliament revised The Act on Conditions of Business
Activity and State Administration in the Energy Industries and on State Power
Inspection (the "Energy Law"). The Energy Law provides the conditions for
business activities, performance of public administration and regulation in the
energy sectors, including electricity, gas and heat, as well as the rights of
and obligations of individuals and legal entities related thereto. The business
activities in the energy sectors in the Czech Republic may only be pursued by
individuals or legal entities upon the basis of government authorization in the
form of licenses granted by the Energy Regulatory Office.
Responsibility for public administration in the energy sectors is exercised by
the Ministry of Industry and Trade (the "Ministry"), the Energy Regulatory
Office and the State Energy Inspection Board.
The Ministry, as the central public administration body for the energy sector,
issues state approval to construct new energy facilities in accordance with
specified conditions, develops the energy policy of the state and ensures
fulfillment of obligations resulting from international agreements and treaties
binding on the Czech Republic or obligations resulting from membership in
international organizations.
The Energy Regulatory Office was established as the administrative office to
exercise regulation in the energy sector of the Czech Republic, to support
economic competition and to protect consumers' interests in sectors where
competition is not possible. The Energy Regulatory Office decides on the
granting of a license, imposition of the supply obligation beyond the scope of
the license, imposition of the obligation to let another license holder use
energy facilities in cases of emergency, to exercise the supply obligation
beyond the scope of the license and price regulation based on special legal
regulations. The State Energy Inspection Board is the inspection body
supervising the activities in the energy sector.
Third-party access is being introduced gradually between 2002 and, at the
latest, 2006 at which time all electricity customers will be able to purchase
electricity from any distributor, eligible generator, or trader.
On March 11, 2002 the Government decided to sell its shares in the eight REAS,
which are held by the National Property Fund and Czech Consolidation Agency, to
CEZ and to purchase from CEZ a 66% share in its transmission subsidiary CEPS.
The transaction was carried out on April 1, 2003 (see Notes 2.3, 6 and 25).
Through this transaction CEZ has acquired a majority share in five REAS, and a
minority share in three REAS. However, the Economic Competition Protection
Authority has ruled that CEZ had to sell its shares in one of the REAS in which
it acquired a majority share and in three of the REAS in which it acquired a
minority share. The Economic Competition Protection Authority has also decided
that CEZ should sell its remaining equity share in CEPS. Following the decisions
of the Economic Competition Protection Authority, CEZ has sold in September 2003
its shares in two of the three REAS (Jihoceska energetika, a.s., a Jihomoravska
energetika, a.s.), where CEZ previously acquired minority shares. The shares in
Prazska energetika, a.s., and CEPS, a.s., have been sold during 2004. In March
2005 the Economic Competition Protection Authority canceled its previous
decision, which
F-8
required CEZ to sell its majority share in one of the acquired
REAS. This new decision is conditioned by an obligation of CEZ to allow access
to its electricity production capacity of total 400 MW for independent subjects
in the period 2006 and 2007. The price for the offered production capacity will
be result of an auction.
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
2.1. Basis of Accounting
The Company is required to maintain its books and records in accordance with
accounting principles and practices mandated by the Czech Law on Accounting. The
accompanying consolidated financial statements reflect certain adjustments and
reclassifications not recorded in the accounting records of the Company in order
to conform the Czech statutory balances to financial statements prepared in
accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards issued by the
International Accounting Standards Board. The adjustments are summarized in Note
29.
2.2. Financial Statements
The accompanying consolidated financial statements of the Group are prepared in
accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). They are
prepared under the historical cost convention, except when IFRS requires other
measurement basis as disclosed in the accounting policies below.
2.3. Group Accounting
a. Group Structure
The financial statements include the accounts of CEZ, a. s., its subsidiaries
and associates, which are shown in the Note 7. Other investments are excluded
from the consolidation because the impact on the consolidated financial
statements would not be material. These investments are included in the balance
sheet under investments and other non-current assets and are stated at cost net
of provision for diminution in value (see Note 4).
b. Subsidiaries
Subsidiaries, which are those entities in which the Group has an interest of
more than one half of the voting rights or otherwise has power to govern the
financial and operating policies, are consolidated.
Subsidiaries are consolidated from the date on which control is transferred to
the Group and are no longer consolidated from the date that control ceases.
The purchase method of accounting is used to account for the acquisition of
subsidiaries from unrelated parties. The cost of an acquisition is measured as
the fair value of the assets given up, shares issued or liabilities undertaken
at the date of acquisition plus costs directly attributable to the acquisition.
The excess of the cost of acquisition over the fair value of the net assets of
the subsidiary acquired is recorded as goodwill. In case of subsequent
acquisition of a minority interest in subsidiary, which has been already
controlled by the Group, the goodwill is measured as the difference between the
cost of the additionally acquired shares and the book value of the minority
interest acquired.
In case of acquisitions of subsidiaries from entities under common control the
assets and liabilities of the acquired subsidiaries are initially included in
the consolidated financial statements at their book values at the date of
acquisition. The difference between the cost of acquisition and the share of the
book value of net assets of the subsidiary acquired is recorded directly in
equity.
Intercompany transactions, balances and unrealized gains on transactions between
group companies are eliminated; unrealized losses are also eliminated unless
cost cannot be recovered. Where necessary, accounting policies of subsidiaries
have been changed to ensure consistency with the policies adopted by the Group.
F-9
c. Associates
Investments in associates are accounted for by the equity method of accounting.
Under this method the company's share of the post-acquisition profits or losses
of associates is recognized in the income statement and its share of
post-acquisition movements in reserves is recognized in reserves. The cumulative
post-acquisition movements are adjusted against the cost of the investment.
Associates are entities over which the Group generally has between 20% and 50%
of the voting rights, or over which the Group has significant influence, but
which it does not control. Unrealized gains on transactions between the Group
and its associates are eliminated to the extent of the company's interest in the
associates; unrealized losses are also eliminated unless the transaction
provides evidence of an impairment of the asset transferred. The Group's
investment in associates includes goodwill (net of accumulated impairment
losses) on acquisition. When the Group's share of losses in an associate equals
or exceeds its interest in the associate, the Group does not recognize further
losses, unless the Group has incurred obligations or made payments on behalf of
the associates.
2.4. Change in Accounting Principle
a. Adoption of IFRIC 1
In 2004 the Company adopted IFRIC Interpretation 1, Changes in Existing
Decommissioning, Restoration and Similar Liabilities ("IFRIC 1"). Following the
interpretation, changes in the measurement of an existing decommissioning,
restoration and similar liability that result from changes in the estimated
timing or amount of the outflow of resources embodying economic benefits
required to settle the obligation, or a change in the discount rate are added
to, or deducted from, the cost of the related asset in the current period (see
Notes 2.23 and 14).
Prior to application of IFRIC 1 in 2004 the Group followed a different
accounting policy, under which the changes in a decommissioning liability that
resulted from a change in the current best estimate of cash flows required to
settle the obligation or a change in the discount rate were added to (or
deducted from) the amount recognized as the related asset to the extent the
change related to future periods. To the extent the change related to the
current or prior periods, it was reported as income or expense for the current
period.
IFRIC 1 has been applied retrospectively and comparative information has been
restated. The effect of the retrospective adoption of IFRIC 1 was to increase
consolidated net income for the year 2003 by CZK 2,937 million with the
corresponding increase in capitalized costs of nuclear provisions and the
deferred tax liability. The adoption of IFRIC 1 had no effect on the
presentation of the Group's results of operations or cash plans for the year
2002.
b. Change in group structure
In 2003 the Company included in the consolidated group certain companies, which
previously have not been consolidated, because the impact on the consolidated
financial statements was not significant. In previous periods the investments in
these companies was included in other financial assets as available for sale
financial investments. The impact of consolidation of the previously
unconsolidated subsidiaries and associates was recorded in 2003 directly in
equity by adjusting the opening balance of retained earnings (see Note 7).
Comparative information for 2002 was not restated, because it was insignificant.
F-10
c. Comparatives
Certain prior year financial statement items have been reclassified to conform
to the current year presentation.
d. New IFRS standards
The IASB published several revised International Accounting Standards, issued
several new International Financial Reporting Standards and gave notice of the
withdrawal of one International Accounting Standard. Most of these revised and
new standards will apply to accounting periods commencing on or after January 1,
2005. The new pronouncements are the following:
o IAS 1, "Presentation of Financial Statements",
o IAS 2, "Inventories",
o IAS 8, "Accounting Policies, Changes in Accounting Estimates and Errors",
o IAS 10, "Events after the Balance Sheet Date",
o IAS 16, "Property, Plant and Equipment",
o IAS 17, "Leases",
o IAS 19, "Employee Benefits",
o IAS 21, "The Effects of Changes in Foreign Exchange Rates",
o IAS 24, "Related Party Disclosures",
o IAS 27, "Consolidated Financial Statements and Accounting for Investments
in Subsidiaries",
o IAS 28, "Investments in Associates",
o IAS 31, "Interests in Joint Ventures",
o IAS 32, "Financial Instruments: Disclosure and Presentation (revised
2003)",
o IAS 33, "Earnings per Share",
o IAS 39, "Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement",
o IAS 40, "Investment Property",
o IFRS 2, "Share-based Payment",
o IFRS 3, "Business Combinations",
o IFRS 4, "Insurance Contracts".
The withdrawn standard was IAS No. 15, "Information Reflecting the Effects of
Changing Prices."
The revised standards also superseded SIC 1 "Consistency - Different Cost
Formulas for Inventories," SIC 2 "Consistency - Capitalization of Borrowing
Costs," SIC 3 "Elimination of Unrealised Profits and Losses on Transactions with
Associates," SIC 5 "Classification of Financial Instruments - Contingent
Settlement Provisions," SIC 6 "Costs of Modifying Existing Software," SIC 11
"Foreign Exchange - Capitalisation of Losses Resulting from Severe Currency
Devaluations," SIC 14 "Property, Plant and Equipment - Compensation for the
Impairment or Loss of Items," SIC 16 "Share Capital - Reacquired Own Equity
Instruments (Treasury Shares)," SIC 17 "Equity - Costs of an Equity
Transaction," SIC 18 "Consistency - Alternative Methods," SIC 19 "Reporting
Currency--Measurement and Presentation of Financial Statements under IAS 21 and
IAS 29," SIC 20 "Equity Accounting Method - Recognition of Losses," SIC 23
"Property, Plant and Equipment - Major Inspection or Overhaul Costs," SIC 24
"Earnings Per Share - Financial Instruments that May Be Settled in Shares," SIC
30 "Reporting Currency - Translation from Measurement Currency to Presentation
Currency," and SIC 33 "Consolidation and Equity Method - Potential Voting Rights
and Allocation of Ownership Interest".
IAS 16, as revised, would require annual revision of residual value, useful life
and depreciation method applied to an asset. The Group will reconsider useful
life of property, plant and equipment when applying the revised standard. The
Group is currently in process of assessing the potential impact this standard
may have on useful lives adopted by the Group, and accordingly, the Group's
results of operations. Any changes in residual value, useful life and
depreciation method applied to an asset will be accounted for as a change in
accounting estimate in accordance with IAS 8.
On December 16, 2004, an amendment to IAS 19 "Employee Benefits" was issued.
Previously, IAS 19 required actuarial gains and losses to be recognized in
profit or loss, either in the period in which they occur or spread over the
service lives of the employees. Under the amendment, entities that at present
spread the gains and losses are not required to change their approach, but are
now free to choose to do so and recognize actuarial gains and losses in full in
the period in which they occur, outside profit or loss. The amendment also (a)
specifies how group entities
F-11
should account for defined benefit group plans in their separate or individual
financial statements and (b) requires additional disclosures. The amended
standard will be effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1,
2006. The Group is currently evaluating the impact of this amendment on its
results of operations, financial position and cash flows and is in process of
developing an implementation strategy.
On November 11, 2004, an amendment to SIC-12 "Consolidation - Special Purpose
Entities" was published. The amendment removes the scope exclusion in SIC-12 for
equity compensation plans. The amendment also amends the scope exclusion in
SIC-12 for post-employment benefit plans to include other long-term employee
benefit plans, to ensure consistency with the requirements of IAS 19. The
amendment is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2005.
The Group is currently evaluating the impact of new standard on its results of
operations, financial position and cash flows and is in process of developing an
implementation strategy.
On November 25, 2004, IFRIC 2 "Members' Shares in Co-operative Entities and
Similar Instruments" was released, giving guidance on the classification of
members' shares in co-operative entities either as financial liabilities or as
equity. On December 2, 2004, IFRIC 3 "Emission Rights" and IFRIC 4 "Determining
whether an Arrangement contains a Lease" were released. IFRIC 3 specifies the
accounting for companies participating in government schemes aimed at reducing
greenhouse gas emissions. IFRIC 4 gives guidance on determining whether
arrangements that do not take the legal form of a lease should, nonetheless, be
accounted for in accordance with IAS 17 "Leases." On December 16, 2004, IFRIC 5
"Rights to Interests arising from Decommissioning, Restoration and Environmental
Rehabilitation Funds" was issued. IFRIC 5 explains how to treat expected
reimbursements from funds set up to meet the costs of decommissioning plant or
equipment or in undertaking environmental restoration or rehabilitation. IFRIC
2, IFRIC 3 and IFRICs 4 and 5 are effective for annual periods beginning on or
after January 1, 2005, March 1, 2005 and January 1, 2006, respectively, with
earlier adoption encouraged. The Group is currently evaluating the impact of
these new interpretations on its results of operations, financial position and
cash flows and is in process of developing an implementation strategy.
On December 17, 2003, the IASB released its revised standard, IAS No. 32,
"Financial Instruments: Disclosure and Presentation (revised 2003)". This
standard replaces IAS No. 32, "Financial Instruments: Disclosure and
Presentation (revised 2000)", and should be applied for annual periods beginning
on or after January 1, 2005. Earlier application is permitted. The adoption of
this standard is not expected to have a material impact on the Group's results
of operations, financial position and cash flows.
The IASB also issued IAS No. 39, "Financial Instruments: Recognition and
Measurement (2003)", in December 2003. This standard supersedes IAS No. 39,
"Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement (revised 2000)". A further
amendment to IAS 39, incorporating new provisions that permit, in certain cases,
fair value hedge accounting for a portfolio hedge of interest rate risk (macro
hedging), was issued on March 31, 2004. The revised IAS 39 must be applied for
annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2005. Earlier application is
permitted only if the revised IAS 32 is also early applied. On December 17,
2004, limited amendments to IAS 39 were issued. The amendments give entities a
choice of applying the "day 1" gain or loss recognition requirements in IAS 39:
retrospectively (as previously required by IAS 39); prospectively to
transactions entered into after October 25, 2002 (the effective date of similar
requirements in US GAAP); or prospectively to transactions entered into after
January 1, 2004. The adoption of this standard is not expected to have a
material impact on the Group's results of operations, financial position and
cash flows.
On March 31, 2004, the IASB issued International Financial Reporting Standard
No. 3 ("IFRS No.3"), "Business Combinations", on accounting for business
combinations and revised IAS 36, "Impairment of Assets", and IAS 38, "Intangible
Assets". The main features of the new and revised standards are that all
business combinations within the scope of IFRS No. 3 must be accounted for using
the purchase method. The pooling of interests method is prohibited. The costs
expected to be incurred to restructure an acquired entity's (or the acquirer's)
activities must be treated as post-combination expenses, unless the acquired
entity has a pre-existing liability for restructuring its activities at the date
of acquisition. Intangible items acquired in a business combination must be
recognized as assets separately from goodwill if they meet the definition of an
asset, are either separable or arise from contractual or other legal rights, and
their fair value can be measured reliably. Identifiable assets acquired, and
liabilities and contingent liabilities incurred or assumed, must be initially
measured at fair value. Amortization of goodwill and intangible assets with
indefinite useful lives is prohibited. Instead they must be tested for
impairment annually, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances
indicate a possible impairment. These standards apply to business combinations
commencing on or after March 31, 2004. For previously recognized goodwill the
standards will apply prospectively from the beginning of the first annual period
commencing on or after March 31, 2004, i.e. January 1, 2005 for the Group. The
adoption of this standard is not expected to have a material impact on the
Group's results of operations, financial position and cash flows.
F-12
On March 31, 2004, the IASB issued International Financial Reporting Standard
No. 4 ("IFRS No.4"), "Insurance Contracts", that provides guidance on accounting
for insurance contracts. The adoption of this standard is not expected to have a
material impact on the Group's results of operations, financial position and
cash flows.
On December 9, 2004, IFRS 6 "Exploration for and Evaluation of Mineral
Resources" was issued. IFRS 6 is effective for annual periods beginning on or
after January 1, 2006. Earlier application is encouraged, and if an entity
adopts IFRS 6 before January 1, 2006, transitional relief is available for some
comparative disclosures. The adoption of this standard is not expected to have a
material impact on the Group's results of operations, financial position and
cash flows.
2.5. Measurement Currency
Based on the economic substance of the underlying events and circumstances
relevant to the company, the measurement currency of the Company has been
determined to be the Czech crown (CZK).
2.6. Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with International
Financial Reporting Standards requires management to make estimates and
assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and
disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial
statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the
reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
2.7. Revenues
The Group recognizes revenue from supplies of electricity and related services
based on contract terms. Any differences between contracted amounts and actual
supplies are settled through the market operator.
2.8. Fuel Costs
Fuel costs are expensed as fuel is consumed. Fuel expense includes the
amortization of the cost of nuclear fuel. Amortization of nuclear fuel charged
to fuel expense was CZK 3,391 million, CZK 3,484 million and CZK 2,071 for the
years ended December 31, 2004, 2003 and 2002, respectively. The amortization of
nuclear fuel includes charges in respect of additions to the accumulated
provision for interim storage of spent nuclear fuel to the extent they relate to
the nuclear fuel consumed during the current accounting period (see Note 14).
Such charges amounted to CZK 203 million, CZK 113 million and CZK 82 million in
2004, 2003 and 2002, respectively.
2.9. Interest
The Group capitalizes all interest incurred in connection with its construction
program that theoretically could have been avoided if expenditures for the
assets had not been made. Such capitalized interest costs amounted to CZK 552
million, CZK 937 million and CZK 2,128 million, which was equivalent to an
interest capitalization rate of 6.5%, 7.4% and 7.5% in 2004, 2003 and 2002,
respectively.
F-13
2.10. Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, plant and equipment are recorded at cost net of accumulated
depreciation and valuation allowances. Cost of plant in service includes
materials, labor, payroll-related costs and the cost of debt financing used
during construction. The cost also includes the estimated cost of dismantling
and removing the asset and restoring the site, to the extent that it is
recognized as a provision under IAS 37, Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and
Contingent Assets. Government grants received for construction of certain
environmental installations decrease the acquisition cost of the respective
items of property, plant and equipment.
The cost of maintenance, repairs, and replacement of minor items of property is
charged to maintenance expense when incurred. Renewals and improvements are
capitalized. Upon sale or retirement of property, plant and equipment, the cost
and related accumulated depreciation are eliminated from the accounts. Any
resulting gains or losses are included in the determination of net income.
At each reporting date, the Group assesses whether there is any indication that
an asset may be impaired. Where an indicator of impairment exists, the Group
reviews the recoverable amounts of its property, plant and equipment to
determine whether such amounts continue to exceed the assets' carrying values.
Depreciation
- ------------
The Group depreciates the original cost of property, plant and equipment by
using the straight-line method over the estimated economic lives. The
depreciable lives used for property, plant and equipment are as follows:
Lives
---------------
Buildings and structures 25 - 50
Machinery and equipment 4 - 25
Vehicles and other transportation equipment 4 - 20
Furniture and fixtures 8 - 15
Average depreciable lives based on the functional use of property are as
follows:
Average Life
---------------
Hydro plants
Buildings and structures 44
Machinery and equipment 16
Fossil fuel plants
Buildings and structures 32
Machinery and equipment 14
Nuclear power plant
Buildings and structures 32
Machinery and equipment 17
Electricity distribution grid 30
Depreciation of plant in service was CZK 17,648 million, CZK 16,319 million and
CZK 11,375 million for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2003 and 2002, which
was equivalent to a composite depreciation rate of 4.8%, 5.7% and 5.6%,
respectively.
2.11. Nuclear Fuel
Nuclear fuel is stated at original cost, net of accumulated amortization.
Amortization of fuel in the reactor is based on the amount of power generated.
Nuclear fuel includes capitalized costs of related provisions (see Note 2.23).
At December 31, 2004 and 2003 capitalized costs at net book value amounted to
CZK 233 million and CZK 360 million, respectively.
F-14
2.12. Intangible Assets, Net
Intangible assets are valued at their acquisition costs and related expenses.
Intangible assets are amortized over their useful life using the straight-line
method. The estimated useful life of intangible assets ranges from 4 to 15
years.
2.13. Goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquisition over the Group's
share of the net identifiable assets of the acquired subsidiary/associate at the
date of acquisition (see Note 2.3). Goodwill on acquisitions of subsidiaries is
included in intangible assets. Goodwill on acquisitions of associates is
included in investments in associates. Following initial recognition, goodwill
is measured at cost less any accumulated impairment losses. Goodwill is reviewed
for impairment, annually or more frequently if events or changes in
circumstances indicate that the carrying value may be impaired.
As at the acquisition date, any goodwill acquired is allocated to each of the
cash-generating units expected to benefit from the combination's synergies.
Impairment is determined by assessing the recoverable amount of the
cash-generating unit, to which the goodwill relates. Where recoverable amount of
the cash-generating unit is less than the carrying amount, an impairment loss is
recognized. Where goodwill forms part of a cash-generating unit and part of the
operation within that unit are disposed of, the goodwill associated with the
operation disposed of is included in the carrying amount of the operation when
determining the gain or loss on disposal of the operation. Goodwill disposed of
in this circumstance is measured on the basis of the relative values of the
operation disposed of and the portion of the cash-generating unit retained.
2.14. Investments
Investments are classified into the following categories: held-to-maturity,
trading and available-for-sale. Investments with fixed or determinable payments
and fixed maturity that the Company has the positive intent and ability to hold
to maturity other than loans and receivables originated by the Company are
classified as held-to-maturity investments. Investments acquired principally for
the purpose of generating a profit from short-term fluctuations in price are
classified as trading. All other investments, other than loans and receivables
originated by the company, are classified as available-for-sale.
Held-to-maturity investments are included in non-current assets unless they
mature within 12 months of the balance sheet date. Investments held for trading
are included in current assets. Available-for-sale investments are classified as
current assets if management intends to realize them within 12 months of the
balance sheet date.
All purchases and sales of investments are recognized on the settlement date.
Investments are initially measured at cost, which is the fair value of the
consideration given for them, including transaction costs.
Available-for-sale and trading investments are subsequently carried at fair
value without any deduction for transaction costs by reference to their quoted
market price at the balance sheet date. Equity securities classified as
available-for-sale and trading investments that do not have a quoted market
price in an active market are measured at cost. The carrying amounts of such
investments are reviewed at each balance sheet date for impairment.
Gains or losses on measurement to fair value of available-for-sale investments
are recognized directly in the fair value reserve in shareholders equity, until
the investment is sold or otherwise disposed of, or until it is determined to be
impaired, at which time the cumulative gain or loss previously recognized in
equity is included in net profit or loss for the period.
Changes in the fair values of trading investments are included in other expense
(income).
Held-to-maturity investments are carried at amortized cost using the effective
interest rate method.
F-15
2.15. Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand, current accounts with banks and
short-term bank notes with a maturity of three months or less (see Note 8).
Foreign currency deposits are translated at December 31, 2004 and 2003 exchange
rates, respectively.
2.16. Cash Restricted in Its Use
Restricted balances of cash shown under other non-current financial assets as
restricted funds (see Note 4) relate to deposits for waste storage reclamation,
funding of nuclear decommissioning liabilities and cash guarantees given to swap
transaction partners. The non-current classification is based on the expected
timing of the release of the funds to the Group.
2.17. Receivables, Payables and Accruals
Receivables are recognized and carried at original invoice amount less an
allowance for any uncollectible amounts. At December 31, 2004 and 2003 the
allowance for uncollectible receivables amounted to CZK 1,653 million and CZK
2,317 million, respectively.
Payables are recorded at invoiced values and accruals are reported at expected
settlement values.
2.18. Materials and Supplies
Materials and supplies are principally composed of maintenance materials and
spare parts for repairs and maintenance of tangible assets. Cost is determined
by using weighted average cost, which approximates actual cost. These materials
are recorded in inventory when purchased and then expensed or capitalized to
plant, as appropriate, when used. The Group records a provision for obsolete
inventory as such items are identified.
2.19. Fossil Fuel Stocks
Fossil fuel stocks are stated at weighted average cost, which approximates
actual cost.
2.20. Derivative Financial Instruments
The Group uses derivative financial instruments such as foreign currency
contracts and interest rate swaps to hedge its risks associated with interest
rate and foreign currency fluctuations. Such derivative financial instruments
are stated at fair value. The method of recognizing the resulting gain or loss
depends on whether the derivative is designated as a hedging instrument, and if
so, the nature of the item being hedged.
For the purpose of hedge accounting, hedges are classified as either fair value
hedges when they hedge the exposure to changes in the fair value of a recognized
asset or liability; or cash flow hedges where they hedge exposure to variability
in cash flows that is either attributable to a particular risk associated with a
recognized asset or liability or a forecasted transaction.
The Group documents at the inception of the transaction the relationship between
hedging instruments and hedged items, as well as its risk management objective
and strategy for undertaking various hedge transactions. The Group also
documents its assessment, both at hedge inception and on an ongoing basis, of
whether the derivatives that are used in hedging transactions are highly
effective in offsetting changes in fair values or cash flows of hedged items.
F-16
a. Fair value hedge
Gain or loss from remeasuring the hedging instrument at fair value is recognized
immediately in the income statement. Any gain or loss on the hedged item
attributable to the hedged risk is adjusted against the carrying amount of the
hedged item and recognized in the income statement. Where the adjustment is to
the carrying amount of a hedged interest-bearing financial instrument, the
adjustment is amortized to the net profit and loss such that it is fully
amortized by maturity.
b. Cash flow hedge
The effective portion of changes in the fair value of derivatives that are
designated and qualify as cash flow hedges are recognized in equity. The gain or
loss relating to the ineffective portion is recognized in the income statement.
Amounts accumulated in equity are recycled in the income statement in the
periods when the hedged item will affect profit or loss.
When a hedging instrument expires or is sold, or when a hedge no longer meets
the criteria for hedge accounting, any cumulative gain or loss existing in
equity at that time remains in equity and is recorded to the income statement
when the forecast transaction is ultimately recognized. When a forecasted
transaction is no longer expected to occur, the cumulative gain or loss that was
reported in equity is immediately transferred to the income statement.
c. Derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting
Certain derivative instruments do not qualify for hedge accounting. Changes in
the fair value of any derivative instruments that do not qualify for hedge
accounting are recognized immediately in the income statement.
2.21. Income Taxes
The provision for corporate tax is calculated in accordance with Czech tax
regulations and is based on the income or loss reported under Czech accounting
regulations, adjusted for appropriate permanent and temporary differences from
Czech taxable income. In the Czech Republic, income taxes are calculated on an
individual company basis as the tax laws do not permit consolidated tax returns.
Current income taxes are provided at a rate of 28%, 31% and 31% for the year
ended December 31, 2004, 2003 and 2002, respectively, after adjustments for
certain items which are not deductible, or taxable, for taxation purposes.
Deferred income tax is provided, using the liability method, on all temporary
differences at the balance sheet date between the tax bases of assets and
liabilities and their carrying amounts for financial reporting purposes.
Deferred income tax is determined using tax rates (and laws) that have been
enacted or substantially enacted by the balance sheet date and are expected to
apply when the related deferred income tax asset is realized or the deferred
income tax liability is settled.
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized regardless of when the
temporary difference is likely to reverse. Deferred tax assets and liabilities
are not discounted. Deferred tax assets are recognized when it is probable that
sufficient taxable profits will be available against which the deferred tax
assets can be utilized. A deferred tax liability is recognized for all taxable
temporary differences, except goodwill for which amortization is not deductible
for tax purposes. Deferred tax assets and liabilities of group companies are not
offset in the balance sheet.
Current tax and deferred tax are charged or credited directly to equity if the
tax relates to items that are credited or charged, in the same or a different
period, directly to equity.
F-17
2.22. Long-term Debt
Borrowings are initially recognized at the amount of the proceeds received, net
of transaction costs. They are subsequently carried at amortized cost using the
effective interest rate method, the difference between net proceeds and
redemption value is being recognized in the net income over the life of the
borrowings as interest expense.
Transaction costs include fees and commissions paid to agents, advisers, brokers
and dealers, levies by regulatory agencies and securities exchanges.
2.23. Nuclear Provisions
Group has recognized provisions for its obligations to decommission its nuclear
power plants at the end of their operating lives, to store the related spent
nuclear fuel initially on an interim basis and provision for its obligation to
provide financing for subsequent permanent storage of spent fuel and irradiated
parts of reactors.
The provisions recognized represent the best estimate of the expenditures
required to settle the present obligation at the current balance sheet date.
Such cost estimates, expressed at current price levels at the date of the
estimate, are discounted using a long-term real rate of interest of 2.5% per
annum to take into account the timing of payments. The initial discounted cost
amounts are capitalized as part of property, plant and equipment and are
depreciated over the lives of the nuclear plants. Each year, the provisions are
increased to reflect the accretion of discount and to accrue an estimate for the
effects of inflation, with the charges being recognized as a component of
interest expense. The estimate for the effect of inflation is approximately
4.5%, which is based on the current rate of interest on long-term Czech
government bonds of approximately 7% and the estimated 2.5% real rate of
interest.
The decommissioning process is expected to continue for approximately a
sixty-year period subsequent to the final operation of the plants. Furthermore,
spent nuclear fuel will be stored on a temporary basis until approximately 2065
when permanent storage facilities are planned to become available. While the
Group has made its best estimate in establishing its nuclear provisions, because
of potential changes in technology as well as safety and environmental
requirements, plus the actual time scale to complete decommissioning and fuel
storage activities, the ultimate provision requirements could either increase or
decrease significantly from the Group's current estimates.
Since 2004, pursuant to IFRIC 1 (see Note 2.4), changes in a decommissioning
liability that result from a change in the current best estimate of cash flows
required to settle the obligation or a change in the discount rate are added to
(or deducted from) the amount recognized as the related asset. However, to the
extent that such a treatment would result in a negative asset, the effect of the
change is recognized in the income for the current period. If the adjustment
results in an addition to the cost of an asset, the Company performs an
impairment review to confirm, whether the value of the asset is fully
recoverable.
2.24. Leases
a. A Group company is a lessee
Finance leases, which transfer to the Group substantially all the risks and
benefits incidental to ownership of the leased item, are capitalized at the
inception of the lease at the fair value of the leased property or, if lower, at
the present value of the minimum lease payments. Lease payments are apportioned
between the finance charges and reduction of the lease liability so as to
achieve a constant rate of interest on the remaining balance of the liability.
Finance charges are charged directly against income.
Capitalized leased assets are depreciated over the estimated useful life of the
asset. If there is no reasonable certainty that the lessee will obtain ownership
by the end of the lease term, the asset is fully depreciated over the shorter of
the lease term or its useful life.
Leases where the lessor retains substantially all the risks and benefits of
ownership of the asset are classified as operating leases. Operating lease
payments are recognized as an expense in the income statement on a straight-line
basis over the lease term.
F-18
b. A Group company is the lessor
When assets are leased out under a finance lease, the present value of the lease
payments is recognized as a receivable. The difference between the gross
receivable and the present value of the receivable is recognized over the lease
term as finance income. Lease income is recognized over the term of the lease
using the net investment method, which reflects a constant periodic rate of
return.
Assets leased out under operating leases are included in property, plant and
equipment in the balance sheet. They are depreciated over their expected useful
lives on a basis consistent with similar owned property, plant and equipment.
Rental income (net of any incentives given to lessees) is recognized on a
straight-line basis over the lease term.
2.25. Treasury Shares
Treasury shares are presented in the balance sheet as a deduction from equity.
The acquisition of treasury shares is presented in the statement of equity as a
reduction to equity. No gain or loss is recognized in the income statement on
the sale, issuance, or cancellation of treasury shares. Consideration received
is presented in the financial statements as an addition to equity.
2.26. Share Options
Board of directors, certain members of management of the Company and the
Supervisory Board members have been granted options to purchase common shares of
the Company. Employee compensation expense is measured on the date of the grant
to the extent the quoted market price of the shares exceeds the exercise price
of the share options.
2.27. Translation of Foreign Currencies
Foreign currency transactions are translated into the measurement currency using
the exchange rates prevailing at the dates of the transactions. Foreign exchange
gains and losses resulting from the settlement of such transactions and from the
translation of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies
are recognized in the income statement, except when deferred in equity as
qualifying cash flow hedges.
Translation differences on debt securities and other monetary financial assets
measured at fair value are included in foreign exchange gains and losses.
Translation differences on non-monetary items such as equities held for trading
are reported as part of the fair value gain or loss. Translation differences on
available-for-sale equities are included in the revaluation reserve in equity.
The assets and liabilities of foreign subsidiaries are translated at the rate of
exchange ruling at the balance sheet date. The income statements of foreign
subsidiaries are translated at weighted average exchange rates for the year. The
exchange differences arising on the retranslation are taken directly to equity.
On disposal of a foreign entity, accumulated exchange differences are recognized
in the income statement as a component of the gain or loss on disposal.
Goodwill and fair value adjustments arising on the acquisition of a foreign
entity are treated as assets and liabilities of the acquiring company and are
recorded at the exchange rate at the date of the transaction.
The Group has used the following exchange rates for the translation of monetary
items at December 31, 2004 and 2003:
2004 2003
--------- ----------
CZK per EUR 30.465 32.405
CZK per USD 22.365 25.654
F-19
3. Net Plant in Service
Net plant in service at December 31, 2004 and 2003 is as follows (in CZK
millions):
Plant and
Equip- Land and Total 2003
Buildings ment Other Total 2004 *)
----------- ----------- ----------- ------------- ------------
Cost - opening balance 130,406 234,623 1,565 366,594 242,338
Plant additions 4,354 6,123 15 10,492 58,991
Retirements (1,073) (1,812) (74) (2,959) (4,081)
Acquisition of subsidiaries 333 257 14 604 83,963
Disposal of subsidiaries - - - - (14,617)
----------- ----------- ----------- ------------- ------------
Cost - closing balance 134,020 239,191 1,520 374,731 366,594
----------- ----------- ----------- ------------- ------------
Accumulated deprec. and allowances
- opening balance (50,677) (99,027) (72) (149,776) (103,355)
Depreciation (4,102) (13,546) - (17,648) (16,319)
Net book value of assets
disposed (667) (114) (1) (782) (1,309)
Retirements 1,073 1,812 - 2,885 4,036
Acquisition of subsidiaries (91) (244) - (335) (40,821)
Disposal of subsidiaries - - - - 8,087
Impairment losses recognized (387) (29) (17) (433) (224)
Impairment losses reversed
related to assets disposed 31 153 27 211 129
----------- ----------- ----------- ------------- ------------
Accumulated deprec. and allowances
- closing balance (54,820) (110,995) (63) (165,878) (149,776)
----------- ----------- ----------- ------------- ------------
Net plant in service - closing
balance 79,200 128,196 1,457 208,853 216,818
=========== =========== =========== ============= ============
*) Comparative information has been restated (see Note 2.4(a)).
At December 31, 2004 and 2003 plant and equipment included the capitalized costs
of nuclear provisions as follows (in CZK millions):
2004 2003 *)
------------ ---------------
Cost 15,429 14,892
Accumulated depreciation (3,467) (3,128)
------------ ---------------
Total net book value 11,962 11,764
============ ===============
*) Comparative information has been restated (see Note 2.4(a)).
The carrying value of plant and equipment held under finance lease at December
31, 2004 and 2003 is CZK 811 million and CZK 173 million, retrospectively (see
Note 16).
None of the Group's plant in service is pledged as security for liabilities.
F-20
4. Investments and Other Financial Assets, Net
Investments at December 31, 2004 and 2003 consist of the following (in CZK
millions):
2004 2003
------------ -----------
Financial assets in progress, net 8,722 116
Investments in REAS, net - 3,401
Financial assets available for sale, net 1,992 2,146
Restricted funds for nuclear decommissioning 1,580 1,245
Other restricted funds 1,177 1,069
Long-term receivables, net 6,219 665
------------ -----------
Total 19,690 8,642
============ ===========
In 2003 the investments in REAS represent a 34% share in Prazska energetika,
a.s., which based on the decision of the Economic Competition Protection
Authority was sold in 2004. Financial assets available for sale include also
other majority and minority shareholdings in operationally related companies
(see Note 2.3).
The financial assets in progress represent advances and other consideration paid
for shares in subsidiaries and associates, for which the ownership rights have
not been transferred to the Company at the year-end. At December 31, 2004, the
balance includes the investment in three Bulgarian distribution companies (see
Note 28).
At December 31, 2004 and 2003 impairment provisions for financial assets
available for sale amounted to CZK 100 million and CZK 281 million,
respectively. Impairment provision for investment in REAS (Prazska energetika,
a.s.) was CZK 421 million at December 31, 2003 only. At December 31, 2004 and
2003 impairment provisions for financial assets in progress amounted to CZK 77
million and CZK 615 million, respectively.
5. Intangible Assets, Net
Intangible assets at December 31, 2004 and 2003 were as follows (in CZK
millions):
Rights and
Software Other Goodwill Total 2004 Total 2003
------------- ------------ ----------- --------------- ---------------
Cost - opening balance 4,420 244 - 4,664 2,023
-
Additions 827 258 - 1,085 834
Retirements (300) (1) - (301) (70)
Acquisition of subsidiaries 21 1 759 781 2,086
Disposal of subsidiaries - - - - (209)
------------- ------------ ----------- --------------- ---------------
Cost - closing balance 4,968 502 759 6,229 4,664
------------- ------------ ----------- --------------- ---------------
Accumulated amortization - opening
balance (3,236) (30) - (3,266) (1,212)
Amortization charge for the year (712) (24) - (736) (642)
Net book value of assets disposed (6) (59) - (65) (1)
Disposals 300 1 - 301 70
Acquisition of subsidiaries (20) (1) - (21) (1,563)
Disposal of subsidiaries - - - - 82
------------- ------------ ----------- --------------- ---------------
Accumulated amortization - closing
balance (3,674) (113) - (3,787) (3,266)
------------- ------------ ----------- --------------- ---------------
Net intangible assets - closing
balance 1,294 389 759 2,442 1,398
============= ============ =========== =============== ===============
At December 31, 2004 and 2003, intangible assets presented on the balance sheet
included intangible assets in progress in the amount of CZK 852 million and CZK
599 million, respectively.
F-21
At December 31, 2004, the total amount of goodwill was allocated to the
distribution segment cash-generating unit (see Note 24) and there have been no
accumulated impairment losses.
The recoverable amount of the distribution cash-generating unit has been
determined based on a value in use calculation. To calculate this, cash flow
projections are based on financial budgets approved by senior management
covering a five-year period. The discount rate applied to cash flow projections
is 7% and cash flows beyond the 5-year period are considered at constant level.
6. Acquisition of subsidiaries and associates
Acquisitions in 2004
- --------------------
In January 2004 the Company increased its share in SKODA PRAHA a.s. from 29.8%
to 68.9% by non-monetary contribution of receivables. Through this transaction
the Group obtained control over SKODA PRAHA a.s. As the shares have been
effectively acquired from Czech National Property Fund, an entity under control
of CEZ's ultimate parent (Czech government), CEZ has accounted for this
transaction as an acquisition of subsidiaries under common control (see Note
2.3).
The values of the identifiable assets and liabilities of SKODA PRAHA a.s. and
other subsidiaries acquired in 2004 are as follows (in CZK millions):
Other
SKODA subsidiaries
PRAHA a.s. acquired Total
------------- ---------------- ----------
Shares acquired in 2004 39.1%
Property, plant and equipment, net 269 - 269
Deferred income taxes 199 - 199
Other non-current assets 168 - 168
Cash and cash equivalents 249 156 405
Other current assets 1,230 11 1,241
Long-term liabilities (141) - (141)
Current liabilities (1,363) (3) (1,366)
------------- ---------------- ----------
Total net assets 611 164 775
Minority interests (190) - (190)
Share of net assets in associate already recognized
using the equity method (5) (164) (169)
------------- ---------------- ----------
Share of net assets acquired 416 - 416
Effect of acquisition of SKODA PRAHA recognized
directly in equity (331) - (331)
Goodwill - - -
------------- ---------------- ----------
Total purchase consideration 85 -* 85
Less:
Non-monetary contributions (85) - (85)
Cash and cash equivalents in subsidiaries acquired (249) (156) (405)
------------- ---------------- ----------
Cash outflow on acquisition of subsidiaries (249) (156) (405)
============= ================ ===========
* The amount paid for acquisitions of other subsidiaries in 2004 was less than
CZK 1 million.
During 2004 CEZ purchased further minority shares in 2 of the REAS and other
companies from various third parties. The following table summarizes the
critical terms of the subsequent acquisitions of minority shares in REAS and
other companies during 2004 (in CZK millions):
F-22
Other
Group SME Group SCE companies Total
---------- ----------- ------------- ----------
Shares acquired in 2004 from third parties 30.3% 5.9%
Share of net assets acquired 3,282 434 680 4,396
Goodwill 641 118 - 759
Negative goodwill - - (1) (1)
Less:
Non-monetary contributions - - (675) (675)
---------- ----------- ------------- ----------
Total purchase consideration paid to third parties
in cash 3,923 552 4 4,479
========== =========== ============= ==========
The following table summarizes the cash outflows on acquisitions of subsidiaries
and minority shares during 2004 (in CZK millions):
Cash acquired in business combination (405)
Cash outflows on purchase of minority shares in REAS 4,479
Change in payables from acquisitions 5,378
Cash paid for financial assets in progress 8,714
----------
Total cash outflows on acquisitions in 2004 18,166
==========
The cash paid for financial assets in progress represents advances and other
consideration paid for shares in subsidiaries and associates, for which the
ownership rights have not been transferred to the Company at the year-end (see
Notes 4 and 28).
From the date of acquisition, the newly acquired subsidiaries have contributed
the following balances to the Group's income statement for the year 2004 (in CZK
millions):
Other
SKODA subsidiaries
PRAHA a.s. acquired Total
------------- ---------------- ----------
Revenues 723 5 728
Income before other expense (income) and income
taxes 225 (7) 218
Net income 93 (11) 82
Acquisitions in 2003
- --------------------
On April 1, 2003, CEZ acquired majority of the voting shares in 5 Czech
electricity distribution companies ("REAS") from Czech National Property Fund
and Czech Consolidation Agency. Through the acquisition of REAS CEZ has also
gained control over several other companies, which were owned directly by the
respective REAS companies. As the REAS companies and their subsidiaries were
acquired from the direct parent of CEZ and an agency under common control of
CEZ's ultimate parent (Czech government), CEZ has accounted for this transaction
as an acquisition of subsidiaries under common control (see Note 2.3).
F-23
The book values of the identifiable assets and liabilities of the REAS companies
acquired from companies under common control are (in CZK millions):
Group SCE Group SME Group STE
------------ ------------ -----------
Shares acquired in 2003 from entities under common
control 48.05% 48.65% 58.3%
Shares acquired in previous years *) 2.95% 10.43% -
------------ ------------ -----------
Total shares 51.00% 59.08% 58.3%
============ ============ ===========
Property, plant and equipment, net 7,306 10,523 9,741
Deferred income taxes 189 - -
Other non-current assets 524 1,069 697
Cash and cash equivalents 76 265 33
Other current assets 3,843 7,222 4,346
Minority interests (1) - (8)
Long-term liabilities (65) (2,215) (256)
Deferred income taxes - (1,015) (835)
Current liabilities (5,839) (6,065) (6,738)
------------ ------------ -----------
Total net assets 6,033 9,784 6,980
Minority interests (2,956) (4,004) (2,911)
------------ ------------ -----------
Share of net assets acquired 3,077 5,780 4,069
Effect of acquisition of REAS recognized directly in
equity 1,660 1,730 (363)
------------ ------------ -----------
Total purchase consideration 4,737 7,510 3,706
Less:
Outstanding payables from acquisition (1,031) (1,450) (866)
Consideration paid for shares in previous periods (327) (1,310) -
Cash and cash equivalents in subsidiaries acquired (76) (265) (33)
------------ ------------ -----------
Cash outflow on acquisition from entities under
common control 3,303 4,485 2,807
============ ============ ===========
*) Shares acquired in previous periods have been accounted for as available for
sale financial assets in 2002.
F-24
Group VCE Group ZCE Total REAS
------------ ------------ -------------
Shares acquired in 2003 from entities under common
control 49.62 50.26%
Shares acquired in previous years *) 0.45% -
------------ ------------
Total shares 50.07% 50.26%
============ ============ ============
Property, plant and equipment, net 8,553 5,176 41,299
Deferred income tax - - 189
Other non-current assets 259 1,892 4,441
Cash and cash equivalents 151 130 655
Other current assets 4,735 4,302 24,448
Minority interests (1) (1) (11)
Long-term liabilities 109) (262) (2,907)
Deferred income taxes 952) (502) (3,304)
Current liabilities (5,550) (4,069) (28,261)
------------ ------------ -------------
Total net assets 7,086 6,666 36,549
Minority interests (3,538) (3,316) (16,725)
------------ ------------ -------------
Share of net assets acquired 3,548 3,350 19,824
Effect of acquisition of REAS recognized directly in
equity 356 1,640 5,023
------------ ------------ -------------
Total purchase consideration 3,904 4,990 24,847
Less:
Outstanding payables from acquisition (903) (1,121) (5,371)
Consideration paid for shares in previous periods (41) - (1,678)
Cash and cash equivalents in subsidiaries acquired (151) (130) (655)
------------ ------------ -------------
Cash outflow on acquisition from entities under
common control 2,809 3,739 17,143
============ ============ ============
*) Shares acquired in previous periods have been accounted for as available for
sale financial assets in 2002.
During 2003 CEZ purchased further minority shares in 3 of the REAS from various
third parties. The following table summarizes the critical terms of the
subsequent acquisitions of minority shares in REAS during 2003 (in CZK
millions):
Group STE Group VCE Group ZCE REAS total
------------ ------------ ------------- -------------
Shares acquired in 2003 from third parties 39.4% 48.76% 48.87%
Share of net assets acquired 2,578 3,799 4,854 11,231
Goodwill (negative goodwill) - - - -
------------ ------------ ------------- -------------
Total purchase consideration paid to third parties 2,578 3,799 4,854 11,231
============ ============ ============ =============
F-25
The following table summarizes the cash outflows on acquisitions of subsidiaries
during 2003 (in CZK millions):
Cash outflows on acquisition from entities under common
control 17,143
Cash outflows on acquisitions from third parties 11,231
----------
Total cash outflows on acquisitions in 2003 28,374
==========
From the date of acquisition, the REAS companies and their subsidiaries have
contributed the following balances to the Group's income statement for the year
2003 (in CZK millions):
Group SCE Group SME Group STE
------------ ------------ ------------
Revenues 8,055 10,900 7,829
Income before other expense (income) and income
taxes 725 520 138
Net income 238 286 256
Group VCE Group ZCE Total REAS
------------ ------------ ------------
Revenues 7,922 5,388 40,094
Income before other expense (income) and income
taxes 193 166 1,742
Net income 183 34 997
F-26
7. Investments in Subsidiaries and Associates
The consolidated financial statements include the financial statements of CEZ,
a. s., and the subsidiaries and associates listed in the following table:
% equity 5) % voting % equity 5) % voting
Country of interest interest interest interest
Subsidiaries incorporation 2004 2004 2003 2003
- ------------------------------------------ ------------------ ---------------- ------------ ------------- --------------
Zapadoceska energetika, a.s. Czech Republic 99.13% 99.13% 99.13% 99.13%
Vychodoceska energetika, a.s. Czech Republic 98.83% 98.83% 98.83% 98.83%
Stredoceska energeticka a.s. Czech Republic 97.72% 97.72% 97.72% 97.72%
Severomoravska energetika, a.s. Czech Republic 89.38% 89.38% 59.08% 59.08%
Severoceska energetika, a.s. Czech Republic 56.93% 56.93% 51.00% 51.00%
CEZ FINANCE B.V. the Netherlands 100.00% 100.00% 100.00% 100.00%
CEZnet, a.s. Czech Republic 100.00% 100.00% 100.00% 100.00%
Energeticke opravny, a.s. Czech Republic 100.00% 100.00% 100.00% 100.00%
HYDROCEZ, a.s. Czech Republic 100.00% 100.00% 100.00% 100.00%
I & C Energo a.s. Czech Republic 100.00% 100.00% 100.00% 100.00%
rpg Energiehandel GmbH Germany 100.00% 100.00% 100.00% 100.00%
EN-DATA a.s. Czech Republic 100.00% 100.00% 99.13% 100.00%
VCE - elektrarny, s.r.o. Czech Republic 98.83% 100.00% 98.83% 100.00%
VCE - montaze, a.s. Czech Republic 98.83% 100.00% 98.83% 100.00%
STE - obchodni sluzby spol. s r.o. Czech Republic 74.42% 76.16% 74.42% 76.16%
Energetika Vitkovice, a.s. Czech Republic 89.38% 100.00% 59.08% 100.00%
ePRIM, a.s. Czech Republic 89.38% 100.00% 59.08% 100.00%
MSEM, a.s. 1) Czech Republic 89.38% 100.00% 59.08% 100.00%
STMEM, a.s.1) Czech Republic - - 59.08% 100.00%
Union Leasing, a.s. Czech Republic 89.38% 100.00% 59.08% 100.00%
Prvni energeticka a.s. Czech Republic 87.27% 100.00% 52.99% 62.00%
Ustav jaderneho vyzkumu Rez a.s. Czech Republic 52.46% 52.46% 52.46% 52.46%
CEZ Sprava majetku, s.r.o. 3) Czech Republic 100.00% 100.00% 99.99% 50.00%
CEZData, s.r.o. 4) Czech Republic 100.00% 100.00% - -
CEZ Logistika, s.r.o. 4) Czech Republic 100.00% 100.00% - -
CEZ Zakaznicke sluzby, s.r.o. 4) Czech Republic 100.00% 100.00% - -
SKODA PRAHA a.s. 2) Czech Republic 68.88% 68.88% 29.80% 29.80%
% equity % voting % equity % voting
Country of interest interest interest interest
Associates incorporation 2004 2004 2003 2003
- ------------------------------------------ ------------------ ---------------- ------------ ------------- --------------
CEPS, a.s. Czech Republic - - 34.00% 34.00%
KOTOUC STRAMBERK, spol. s r.o. Czech Republic 64.87% 50.00% 64.87% 50.00%
LOMY MORINA spol. s r.o. Czech Republic 51.05% 50.00% 51.05% 50.00%
Plzenska energetika a.s. Czech Republic 49.57% 50.00% 49.57% 50.00%
KNAUF POCERADY, spol. s r.o. Czech Republic 40.00% 50.00% 40.00% 50.00%
Severoceske doly a.s. Czech Republic 37.20% 37.20% 37.20% 37.20%
Aliatel a.s. Czech Republic 26.40% 30.58% 21.10% 29.99%
Coal Energy, a.s. Czech Republic 20.00% 20.00% 20.00% 20.00%
1) STMEM, a.s. has merged with MSEM, a.s. during year 2004.
2) SKODA PRAHA a.s. was an associate of CEZ in 2003.
3) AB Michle s.r.o. was renamed to CEZ Sprava majetku, s.r.o. and was an
associate of CEZ in 2003.
4) These companies have been founded in 2004.
5) The equity interest represents effective ownership interest of the group. 8.
F-27
8. Cash and Cash Equivalents
The composition of cash and cash equivalents at December 31, 2004 and 2003 is as
follows (in CZK millions):
2004 2003
---------- --------------
Cash on hand and current accounts with banks 1,704 1,264
Short-term bank notes 4,940 2,501
Term deposits 901 249
---------- --------------
Total 7,545 4,014
========== ==============
At December 31, 2004 and 2003, cash and cash equivalents included foreign
currency deposits of CZK 1,207 million and CZK 869 million, respectively.
The weighted average interest rate on short-term bank notes and term deposits at
December 31, 2004, 2003 and 2002 was 2.2%, 1.7% and 2.6%, respectively. For the
years 2004, 2003 and 2002 the weighted average interest rate was 2.1%, 1.9% and
3.0%, respectively.
9. Receivables, Net
The composition of receivables, net, at December 31, 2004 and 2003 is as follows
(in CZK millions):
2004 2003
----------- ----------
Unbilled electricity supplied to retail customers 2,203 -
Received advances from retail customer (2,020) -
----------- ----------
Unbilled supplies to retail customers, net 183 -
Trade receivables 9,911 9,112
Other taxes and fees 437 205
Other receivables 26 64
Less allowance for doubtful receivables (1,653) (2,317)
----------- ----------
Total 8,904 7,064
========== ==========
At December 31, 2004 and 2003, the total receivables included receivables from
associates and affiliates in the net amount of CZK 434 million and CZK 1,113
million, respectively.
10. Other Current Assets
The composition of other current assets at December 31, 2004 and 2003 is as
follows (in CZK millions):
2004 2003
----------- ----------
Securities held for trading 1,340 1,756
Debt securities held to maturity 81 1,476
Advances granted 259 360
Prepayments 496 477
Derivatives 159 230
----------- ----------
Total 2,335 4,299
========== ==============
F-28
11. Shareholders' Equity
The Company's stated capital as of December 31, 2004 and 2003 is as follows:
Number of Shares Par Value per Total
Outstanding Share (CZK) (CZK millions)
---------------- --------------- ----------------
2004
------------------------------------------------------
Registered shares 592,210,843 100 59,221
Treasury shares (10,000) 100 (3)
---------------- ----------------
Total 592,200,843 59,218
================ ================
2003
------------------------------------------------------
Registered shares 592,210,843 100 59,221
Treasury shares (745,000) 100 (69)
---------------- ----------------
Total 591,465,843 59,152
================ ================
During 2003 the Company sold 1,190,000 treasury shares. During year 2004 the
Company acquired 2,355,000 treasury shares and sold 3,090,000 treasury shares.
The remaining 10,000 treasury shares are reflected in the balance sheet at cost
as a deduction from stated capital. The profit or loss on sale of treasury
shares were included in retained earnings.
In accordance with Czech regulations, joint stock companies are required to
establish an undistributable reserve fund for contingencies against possible
future losses and other events. Contributions must be a minimum of 20% of
after-tax profit in the first year in which profits are made and 5% of profit
each year thereafter, until the fund reaches at least 20% of capital. The fund
can only be used to offset losses. As of December 31, 2004 and 2003, the balance
was CZK 9,913 million and CZK 9,185 million, respectively, and is reported as a
component of retained earnings.
Dividends paid per share were CZK 8.0 and CZK 4.5 in 2004 and 2003,
respectively. Dividends from 2004 profit will be declared on general meeting,
which will be held in June 2005.
F-29
12. Long-term Debt
Long-term debt at December 31, 2004 and 2003 is as follows (in CZK millions):
2004 2003
---------- ----------
7.125% Notes, due 2007 (USD 178 million) 3,962 4,545
7.25% Eurobonds, due 2006 (EUR 200 million) 6,233 6,467
4.625% Eurobonds, due 2011 (EUR 400 million) 12,101 -
8.75% Debentures, due 2004 (CZK 3,000 million) - 3,000
9.22% Zero Coupon Debentures, due 2009 1) 3,299 3,057
9.22% Debentures, due 2014 (CZK 2,500 million) 2) 2,494 2,494
3.35 % Debentures, due 2008 (CZK 3,000 million) 2,990 2,987
6M PRIBOR + 1.3 %, due 2005 (CZK 500 million) 500 500
6M PRIBOR + 0.4 %, due 2005 (CZK 1,000 million) 1,000 1,000
Long-term bank loans:
less than 2.00% - 4,852
2.00% to 2.99% 5,975 2,787
3.00% to 3.99% 113 286
4.00% to 4.99% 889 -
5.00% to 5.99% 747 2,365
6.00% to 6.99% 324 382
7.00% to 7.99% 887 1,241
8.00% and more 115 693
---------- -----------
Total long-term debt 41,629 36,656
Less: Current portion (3,439) (5,691)
---------- -----------
Long-term debt, net of current portion 38,190 30,965
=========== ==========
1) Nominal value of these zero coupon debentures is CZK 4,500 million
2) From 2006 the interest rate changes to consumer price index in the Czech
republic plus 4.2%.
The interest rates indicated above are historical rates for fixed rate debt and
current market rates for floating rate debt. The actual interest payments are
affected by interest rate risk hedging carried out by the Group. For fair values
of interest rate hedging instruments see Note 13.
The future maturities of long-term debt are as follows (in CZK millions):
2004 2003
---------- ----------
Current portion 3,439 5,691
Between 1 and 2 years 8,035 3,696
Between 2 and 3 years 6,162 8,464
Between 3 and 4 years 3,734 7,012
Between 4 and 5 years 3,806 3,769
Thereafter 16,453 8,024
----------- -----------
Total long-term debt 41,629 36,656
=========== ===========
F-30
The following table analyses the long-term debt at December 31, 2004 and 2003 by
currency (in millions):
2004 2003
---------------------------- ------------------------------
Foreign Foreign
currency CZK currency CZK
----------- ---------------- --------------- --------------
EUR 643 19,656 258 8,360
USD 405 9,058 454 11,637
CZK - 12,915 - 16,659
---------- --------------
Total long-term debt 41,629 36,656
========== ==============
In the normal course of business, the financial position of the Group is
routinely subjected to a variety of risks, including market risk associated with
interest rate movements and with currency rate movements on non-Czech crown
denominated liabilities. The Group regularly assesses these risks and has
established policies and business practices to partially protect against the
adverse effects of these and other potential exposures.
As currency rate movements expose the Group to significant risk, the Group uses
sensitivity analyses to determine the impacts that market risk exposures may
have on the fair values of the Group's financial instruments. To perform
sensitivity analyses, the Group assesses the risk of loss in fair values from
the impact of hypothetical changes in foreign currency exchange rates and
interest rates on market sensitive instruments and considers the expected costs
and benefits of various hedging techniques. The Group will continue to explore
cost-effective possibilities to reduce its current exchange rate movement and
other market risks.
The Company has entered into a number of derivatives transactions, mainly
cross-currency swaps, to hedge its long-term debt denominated in foreign
currencies against the currency risk and interest rate risk. These hedges are
classified as either fair value hedges or cash-flow hedges (see Note 13). As at
December 31, 2004, a net unrealized loss of CZK 69 million is included in equity
in respect of the cash-flow hedges.
Long-term debt with floating interest rates exposes the Group to interest rate
risk. The following table summarizes long-term debt with floating rates of
interest by contractual repricing dates at December 31, 2004 and 2003 (in CZK
millions):
2004 2003
--------- -----------
Floating rate long-term debt
with interest rate fixed for 1 month 1,152 1,818
with interest rate fixed from 1 to 3 months 4,584 5,701
with interest rate fixed from 3 months to 1 year 1,242 1,840
with interest rate fixed for more than 1 year 2,494 2,494
--------- -----------
Total floating rate long-term debt 9,472 11,853
Fixed rate long-term debt 32,157 24,803
--------- -----------
Total long-term debt 41,629 36,656
========= ===========
In 1992 the Company has entered into a loan agreement with the International
Bank for Reconstruction and Development. The agreement contains financial
covenants relating to capital expenditure coverage, cash flow coverage and debt
service coverage. In 2004, 2003 and, 2002 the Company has complied with the
required covenants.
F-31
13. Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Fair value is defined as the amount at which the instrument could be exchanged
in a current transaction between knowledgeable willing parties in an arm's
length transaction, other than in a forced or liquidation sale. Fair values are
obtained from quoted market prices, discounted cash flow models and option
pricing models, as appropriate.
The following methods and assumptions are used to estimate the fair value of
each class of financial instruments:
Cash and cash equivalents, current investments
- ----------------------------------------------
The carrying amount of cash and other current financial assets approximates fair
value due to the relatively short-term maturity of these financial instruments.
Investments
- -----------
The fair values of instruments, which are publicly traded on active markets, are
estimated based on quoted market prices. The management believes that for
instruments for which there are no quoted market prices the carrying amount
approximates the fair value of such investments.
Receivables and Payables
- ------------------------
The carrying amount of receivables and payables approximates fair value due to
the short-term maturity of these financial instruments.
Short-term loans
- ----------------
The carrying amount approximates fair value because of the short period to
maturity of those instruments.
Long-term debt
- --------------
The fair value of long-term debt is based on the quoted market price for the
same or similar issues or on the current rates available for debt with the same
maturity profile. The carrying amount of long-term debt and other payables with
variable interest rates approximates their fair values.
Derivatives
- -----------
The fair value of derivatives is based upon market to market valuations.
F-32
Carrying amounts and the estimated fair values of financial instruments at
December 31, 2004 and 2003 were as follows (in CZK millions):
2004 2003
------------------------ -----------------------
Carrying Carrying
amount Fair value amount Fair value
-------- ---------- -------- ----------
Assets:
Investments 7,474 7,474 10,999 10,999
Receivables 8,904 8,904 7,064 7,064
Cash and cash equivalents 7,545 7,545 4,014 4,014
Liabilities:
Long-term debt (41,629) (43,848) (36,656) (39,626)
Short-term loans (240) (240) (2,320) (2,320)
Accounts payable (8,234) (8,234) (17,548) (17,548)
Derivatives:
Cash flows hedges
Receivables - - - -
Payables (1,265) (1,265) - -
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total cash flows hedges (1,265) (1,265) - -
Fair values hedges
Receivables 21 21 - -
Payables (1,900) (1,900) - -
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total fair values hedges (1,879) (1,879) - -
Other derivatives
Receivables 138 138 230 230
Payables (1,010) (1,010) (3,030) (3,030)
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total other derivatives (872) (872) (2,800) (2,800)
14. Accumulated Provision for Nuclear Decommissioning and Fuel Storage
CEZ operates two nuclear power plants, Dukovany and Temelin. Nuclear power plant
Dukovany consists of four 440 MW units which were placed into service from 1985
to 1987. The second nuclear power plant, Temelin, has two 1 000 MW units, which
have started commercial operation in 2002 and 2003. Czech Republic has enacted a
Nuclear Act ("Act"), which defines certain obligations for the decontamination
and dismantling ("decommissioning") of the Company's nuclear power plants and
the final disposal of radioactive waste and spent fuel ("disposal"). The Act
requires that all nuclear parts of plant and equipment be decommissioned
following the end of the plant's operating life, currently 2027 for Dukovany and
approximately 2042 for Temelin. An updated 2003 Dukovany estimate and a 2004
Temelin decommissioning cost study estimate that nuclear decommissioning will
cost CZK 15.6 billion and CZK 13.7 billion, respectively. The Company makes
contributions to a restricted account in the amount of the nuclear provisions
recorded under the Act. These restricted funds are shown in the balance sheet
under other non-current financial assets (see Note 4).
Pursuant to the Act, the Ministry of Industry and Trade established the
Radioactive Waste Repository Authority ("RAWRA") as the central organizer and
operator of facilities for the final disposal of radioactive waste and spent
fuel. The RAWRA centrally organizes, supervises and is responsible for all
disposal facilities and for disposal of radioactive waste and spent fuel
therein. The activities of the RAWRA are financed through a "nuclear account"
funded by the originators of radioactive waste (such as the Company).
Contribution to the nuclear account was stated by a government resolution in
1997, at 50 CZK per MWh produced at nuclear power plants. Since October 1, 1997,
CEZ has made regular payments to the nuclear account based on its average
nuclear MWh generated during the last 5 years. From 2003 CEZ is making these
payments based on the actual quantity of electricity generated in
F-33
nuclear power plants in the respective period. The originator of radioactive
waste directly covers all costs associated with interim storage of radioactive
waste and spent fuel. Actual costs incurred are charged against the accumulated
provision for interim and long-term spent fuel storage.
Group has established provisions as described in Note 2.23, to recognize its
estimated liabilities for decommissioning and spent fuel storage. The following
is a summary of the provisions for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2003 and
2002 (in CZK millions):
Accumulated provisions
-----------------------------------------------------------
Nuclear Spent fuel storage
Decommis- ---------------------------
sioning Interim Long-term Total
------------- ------------ --------------- --------------
Balance at December 31, 2001 5,398 2,651 13,347 21,396
Movements during 2002
Discount accretion 144 70 334 548
Effect of inflation 258 126 600 984
Provision charged to income statement - 82 - 82
Effect of change in estimate credited to income
statement (Note 2.23) - (82) - (82)
Effect of change in estimate added to (deducted
from) fixed assets (Note 2.23) 932 - (59) 873
Capitalized cost of Temelin provisions 619 254 - 873
Current cash expenditures - (135) (673) (808)
------------- ------------ --------------- --------------
Balance at December 31, 2002 7,351 2,966 13,549 23,866
Effect of change in group structure 142 4 - 146
Movements during 2003
Discount accretion 187 74 339 600
Effect of inflation 337 133 610 1,080
Provision charged to income statement - 113 - 113
Effect of change in estimate credited to income
statement (Note 2.23) - (56) - (56)
Effect of change in estimate added to (deducted
from) fixed assets (Note 2.23) 153 - 3,661 3,814
Current cash expenditures - (103) (1,296) (1,399)
------------- ------------ --------------- --------------
Balance at December 31, 2003 8,170 3,131 16,863 28,164
Movements during 2004
Discount accretion 202 78 422 702
Effect of inflation 363 141 759 1,263
Provision charged to income statement - 203 - 203
Effect of change in estimate credited to income
statement (Note 2.23) - (44) - (44)
Effect of change in estimate added to (deducted
from) fixed assets (Note 2.23) 359 - 177 536
Current cash expenditures - (67) (1,316) (1,383)
------------- ------------ --------------- --------------
Balance at December 31, 2004 9,094 3,442 16,905 29,441
============= ============ =============== ==============
The current cash expenditures for the long-term storage of spent nuclear fuel
represent payments to the state controlled nuclear account and the expenditures
for interim storage represent mainly the purchase of interim fuel storage
containers.
The actual decommissioning and spent fuel storage costs could vary substantially
from the above estimates because of new regulatory requirements, changes in
technology, increased costs of labor, materials, and equipment and/or the actual
time required to complete all decommissioning, disposal and storage activities.
F-34
15. Short-term Loans
Short-term loans at December 31, 2004 and 2003 are as follows (in CZK millions):
2004 2003
----------- ----------
Short-term bank loans 129 2,295
Bank overdrafts 107 17
Other short-term notes payable 4 8
----------- ----------
Total 240 2,320
=========== ==========
Interest on short-term loans is variable. The weighted average interest rate was
3.2% at December 31, 2004 and 2.1% at December 31, 2003. For the years 2004,
2003 and 2002 the weighted average interest rate was 4.6%, 2.2% and 3.0%,
respectively.
16. Finance Leases
Future minimum lease payments under finance leases together with the present
value of the net minimum lease payments are as follows (in CZK millions):
2004 2003
----------- ----------
Within one year 60 31
After one year but not more than five years 27 25
More than five years - -
----------- ----------
Total minimum lease payments 87 56
Future finance charges on finance leases (9) (6)
----------- ----------
Present value of finance lease liabilities 78 50
=========== ==========
17. Trade and Other Payables
Trade and other payables at December 31, 2004 and 2003 are as follows (in CZK
millions):
2004 2003
----------- ----------
Advances received from retailers 12,374 15,855
Unbilled electricity supplied to retail customers (11,105) (12,962)
----------- ----------
Advances received from retailers, net 1,269 2,893
Payables from purchase of REAS - 7,470
Trade payables 5,925 6,251
Derivatives 4,175 3,031
Other payables 1,040 934
----------- ----------
Total 12,409 20,579
=========== ==========
At December 31, 2004 and 2003, the total payables included payables from
associates and affiliates in the amount of CZK 674 million and CZK 1,192
million, respectively.
F-35
18. Accrued Liabilities
Accrued liabilities at December 31, 2004 and 2003 consist of the following (in
CZK millions):
2004 2003
----------- ----------
Provisions 2,330 2,811
Accrued interest 929 805
Taxes and fees, except income tax 968 864
Unbilled goods and services 929 546
Social and bonus funds 285 254
Deferred income 463 435
----------- ----------
Total 5,904 5,715
=========== ==========
19. Sales of Electricity
The composition of sales of electricity at December 31, 2004, 2003 and 2002 is
as follows (in CZK millions):
2004 2003 2002
----------- --------- ----------
Sales to distribution companies 13,541 19,843 39,230
Sales to end customer through distribution grid 53,492 36,590 -
Exports of electricity including trade outside the Czech 10,309 13,296 10,143
Republic
Sales to traders 5,172 1,592 2,010
Revenues capitalized during construction - - (1,373)
Other domestic sales of electricity 4,943 3,893 2,928
Sales of ancillary services 5,291 4,334 -
----------- --------- ----------
Total 92,748 79,548 52,938
=========== ========= ==========
20. Other Operating Expenses
Other operating expenses (income), net, for the year ended December 31, 2004,
2003 and 2002 consist of the following (in CZK millions):
2004 2003 2002
----------- --------- ----------
Services 5,031 4,411 3,199
Travel expenses 207 147 34
Loss (gain) on sale of property, plant and equipment (616) (326) 20
Loss on sale of material 57 73 136
Capitalization of expenses to the cost of fixed assets and
change in own inventory (1,914) (1,565) (437)
Fines, penalties and penalty interest, net (103) (43) (258)
Change in provisions and valuation allowances (1,480) 359 (71)
Taxes and fees 354 448 466
Write off of bad debts and cancelled investment 239 146 15
Gifts 254 112 49
Other, net 1,883 (208) (280)
----------- --------- ----------
Total 3,912 3,554 2,873
=========== ========= ==========
F-36
21. Income Taxes
Income Tax Legislation
- ----------------------
Corporate income tax is calculated in accordance with Czech tax regulations at
the rate of 28%, 31% and 31% in 2004, 2003 and 2002, respectively. The corporate
income tax rate for 2005 will be 26%.
The Czech Republic currently has a number of laws related to various taxes
imposed by governmental authorities. Applicable taxes include value-added tax,
corporate tax, and payroll (social) taxes, together with others. Tax
declarations, together with other legal compliance areas (as examples, customs
and currency control matters) are subject to review and investigation by a
number of authorities, who are enabled by law to impose severe fines, penalties
and interest charges. Management believes that it has adequately provided for
tax liabilities in the accompanying financial statements; however, the risk
remains those relevant authorities could take differing positions with regard to
interpretive issues and the effect could be significant.
Income Tax Provision
- --------------------
The components of the income tax provision are as follows (in CZK millions):
2004 2003 *) 2002 *)
-------- --------- ---------
Current income tax charge 2,484 1,007 450
Adjustments in respect of current income tax of previous
periods 154 11 254
Deferred income taxes 1,207 331 2,671
-------- --------- ---------
Total 3,845 1,349 3,375
======== ========= =========
*) Comparative information has been restated (see Note 2.4(a)).
The differences between income tax expense computed at statutory rate and income
tax expense provided on earnings are as follows (in CZK millions):
2004 2003 *) 2002 *)
-------- --------- ----------
Income before income taxes 17,928 10,737 11,796
Statutory income tax rate 28% 31% 31%
-------- --------- ----------
"Expected" income tax expense 5,020 3,328 3,657
Add (deduct) tax effect of:
Change in tax rates (1,008) (1,561) -
Czech/IFRS accounting differences 1 78 282
Non deductible provisions, net (158) 123 (30)
Investment tax relief (57) (1,010) (1,181)
Tax credits (5) (212) (103)
Additional tax assessments 154 11 254
Withholding tax on dividend 2 42 -
Difference between carrying and tax value of financial
asset - 410 -
Deferred tax on undistributed profits of subsidiary - - 613
Other non deductible (non taxable) items, net (104) 140 (117)
-------- --------- ----------
Income taxes 3,845 1,349 3,375
======== ========= ==========
Effective tax rate 21% 13% 29%
======== ========= ==========
*) Comparative information has been restated (see Note 2.4(a)).
F-37
Deferred Income Taxes, Net
- --------------------------
Deferred income taxes at December 31, 2004 and 2003 consist of the following (in
CZK millions):
2004 2003*)
--------- ---------
Accumulated provision for nuclear decommissioning and
spent fuel storage 5,925 6,641
CASTOR containers write off 286 338
Other provisions and allowances 650 885
Tax loss carry forwards 110 25
Revaluation of financial assets 11 17
Other temporary differences 71 171
--------- ---------
Total deferred tax assets 7,053 8,077
--------- ---------
Tax depreciation in excess of financial statement
depreciation 13,103 12,102
Capitalized interest 5,032 5,590
Capitalized cost of provisions 2,927 3,395
Repairs and maintenance accrual 1,206 987
Penalty receivables 46 71
Other temporary differences 38 17
Investment in associate 520 1,490
--------- ---------
Total deferred tax liabilities 22,872 23,652
--------- ---------
Total deferred tax liabilities, net 15,819 15,575
========= =========
*) Comparative information has been restated (see Note 2.4(a)).
22. Other Expenses (Income), Net
Other expenses, net, for the year ended December 31, 2004, 2003 and 2002 consist
of the following (in CZK millions):
2004 2003 2002
---------- ---------- ------------
Derivative losses (gains), net 1,630 1,157 1,643
Losses (gains) from valuation allowances to financial
investments (509) 9 (385)
Change in impairment of financial investments (342) 1,426 (31)
Other, net (552) (422) 72
--------- --------- ------------
Total 227 2,170 1,299
========= ========= ============
F-38
23. Related Parties
The Company purchases products from related parties in the ordinary course of
business. Approximately 59% of the brown coal consumption is supplied by
Severoceske doly a.s. ("SD"), a company in which CEZ holds a 37.2% share. In
2004, 2003 and 2002, coal purchases from SD amounted to CZK 5,054 million, CZK
5,177 million and CZK 4,921 million, respectively. Receivables from SD amounted
to CZK 10 million and CZK 10 million as of December 31, 2004 and 2003,
respectively. Payables to SD amounted to CZK 535 million and CZK 508 million as
of December 31, 2004 and 2003 respectively. The prices of fossil fuel supplies
from SD do not differ significantly from market prices.
During 2004, 2003 and 2002 the Company granted share options to the Board of
Directors, certain members of the management of the Company and Supervisory
Board members. The following table shows changes during 2004, 2003 and 2002 in
the number of granted share options and the weighted average exercise price of
these options:
Weighted average
Number of exercise price
share options (CZK per share)
--------------- --------------------
Share options at December 31, 2001 3,375,000 92.58
Options granted 30,000 73.30
Options exercised (30,000) 79.38
Options forfeited (300,000) 96.39
---------------
Share options at December 31, 2002 3,075,000 93.07
Options granted 1,650,000 105.23
Options exercised (1,190,000) 89.65
Options forfeited (285,000) 87.83
---------------
Share options at December 31, 2003 3,250,000 100.95
Options granted 1,800,000 152.84
Options exercised (3,090,000) 107.26
Options forfeited (150,000) 105.78
---------------
Share options at December 31, 2004 1,810,000 141.38
===============
At December 31, 2004, the aggregate number of share options granted to members
of Board of Directors was 1,350,000 and the number of share options granted to
Supervisory Board members was 460,000. The options granted do not have any
vesting period and can be exercised during the terms of office of the respective
Board members and in further 3 months after the end of such period. The exercise
price for the granted options was based on the average quoted market price on
the Prague stock exchange in the six-month period preceding the date of the
grant. In 2004 and 2003 the Company has recognized compensation expense of CZK
148 million and CZK 2 million related to the granted options (see Note 2.26). No
expense was recognized in 2002. The Company has settled all options exercised
using treasury shares. The gain or loss on the sale of treasury shares were
recognized directly in equity.
F-39
24. Segment Information
On April 1, 2003 CEZ has sold majority share in its transmission subsidiary
CEPS, a. s. ("CEPS") and at the same moment CEZ has acquired majority shares in
5 electricity distribution companies REAS (see Note 1). Following this
transaction CEZ has modified its reporting of business segments by including new
distribution segment, which is formed by the 5 majority owned REAS companies.
During 2004 CEZ has sold the remaining shares in CEPS (see Note 25).
The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in Note
2. The Group accounts for intersegment revenues and transfers as if the revenues
or transfers were to third parties, that is, at current market prices or where
the regulation applies at regulated prices. The Group evaluates the performance
of its segments and allocates resources to them based on operating income.
The following table summarizes segment information for the years ended December
31, 2004, 2003 and 2002, respectively (in CZK millions):
Year 2004:
Power
Produc- Trans- Distribu- Elimina- Consoli-
tion mission tion Other Combined tion dated
--------- ----------- ----------- ---------- ---------- ----------- -------------
Sales other than
intersegment sales 41,223 - 53,156 5,786 100,165 - 100,165
Intersegment sales 22,986 - 5,728 2,896 31,610 (31,610) -
--------- ------------ ----------- ---------- ----------- ------------- -----------
Total revenues 64,209 - 58,884 8,682 131,775 (31,610) 100,165
-
Operating income 13,048 - 5,971 353 19,372 (217) 19,155
-
Identifiable assets 180,425 - 43,759 3,439 227,623 (188) 227,435
Identifiable liabilities 81,571 - 13,066 5,644 100,281 (4,444) 95,837
Investment in associate 356 - - 7,118 7,474 - 7,474
-
Income (share of loss) from
associate 22 780 - (68) 734 - 734
Depreciation and amortization 13,969 - 4,004 389 18,362 22 18,384
Change in provisions and
allowances (216) - (1,012) (49) (1,277) - (1,277)
Year 2003*)
Power
Produc- Trans- Distribu- Elimina- Consoli-
tion mission tion Other Combined tion dated
--------- ----------- ----------- ---------- ---------- ------------ -------------
Sales other than intersegment
sales 40,756 3,569 38,373 2,118 84,816 - 84,816
Intersegment sales 14,936 152 657 2,768 18,513 (18,513) -
--------- ----------- ----------- ---------- ---------- ------------ ------------
Total revenues 55,692 3,721 39,030 4,886 103,329 (18,513) 84,816
Operating income 9,884 758 2,017 90 12,749 255 13,004
Identifiable assets 190,364 - 44,215 2,084 236,663 (67) 236,596
Identifiable liabilities 85,240 - 15,965 2,608 103,813 (1,971) 101,842
Investment in associate 333 2,924 - 7,742 10,999 - 10,999
Income (share of loss) from
associate (23) 630 - 456 1,063 - 1,063
Depreciation and amortization 13,558 476 2,962 220 17,216 (255) 16,961
Change in provisions and
allowances 384 4 67 16 471 - 471
F-40
Year 2002:*)
Power Trans-
Production mission Other Combined Elimination Consolidated
---------- ----------- ---------- --------- ------------- -------------
Sales other than
intersegment sales 43,651 11,927 - 55,578 - 55,578
Intersegment sales 6,235 441 - 6,676 (6,676) -
---------- ----------- ----------- ------------ - ------------- -------------
Total revenues 49,886 12,368 - 62,254 (6,676) 55,578
Operating income 9,539 661 - 10,200 1,023 11,223
Identifiable assets 195,747 17,899 - 213,646 (10,219) 203,427
Identifiable liabilities 74,462 3,704 - 78,166 (2,917) 75,249
Investment in associate - - 5,880 5,880 - 5,880
Income from associate - - 497 497 - 497
Depreciation and amortization 10,869 1,865 - 12,734 (1,013) 11,721
Change in provisions and
allowances 10 2 - 12 - 12
*) Comparative information has been restated (see Note 2.4(a)).
The power generation segment sells the major part of its electricity generated
to the eight REAS. Prices in certain intersegment transactions are regulated by
the Energy Regulatory Office (see Note 1).
25. Discontinuing Operation
On March 11, 2002 the Government decided to purchase from CEZ a 66% share in its
transmission subsidiary CEPS. General meeting of CEZ's shareholders held on June
11, 2002, has confirmed the above mentioned decision of the Government. This
transaction was carried out on April 1, 2003. Based on the decision of Economic
Competition Protection Authority CEZ has also sold its remaining equity share in
CEPS in September 2004.
The purchase of CEPS shares was made by OSINEK, a.s., a company controlled by
the National Property Fund, and the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs and the
Ministry of Finance. Based on the fact that the transaction was carried out
between parties under common control of CEZ's ultimate parent, CEZ has recorded
the net gain on the sale directly in equity. The composition of the amount
recorded in equity in 2004 and 2003 is as follows (in CZK millions):
2004 2003
-------- --------
% of shares sold 34% 66%
Total selling price 7,087 15,224
Book value of shares sold (3,703) (4,453)
Current income tax related to the sale (1,721) (4,152)
Deferred tax related to the sale 773 543
-------- --------
Effect of sale recognized in equity 2,436 7,162
======== ========
F-41
The reconciliation of the proceeds from disposal of a subsidiary as presented in
the cash-flow statement in 2004 and 2003 is as follows (in CZK millions):
2004 2003
-------- --------
Total selling price 7,087 15,224
Cash disposed of - (3,016)
Change in receivables from the sale of
subsidiary or associate (7,087) -
-------- --------
Proceeds from disposal of subsidiary, net
of cash disposed of - 12,208
======== ========
The operations of CEPS were reported in the transmission segment (see Note 24).
The carrying amounts of total assets and total liabilities attributable to the
discontinuing operation at December 31, 2004 and 2003 are as follows (in CZK
millions):
2004 2003
-------- ---------
Total asset - 2,924*)
Total liabilities
Total net assets disposed off - 2,924
======== =========
*) The amount represents investment in associate only.
The amounts shown above in respect of 2003 do not include the deferred tax
liability from consolidation of undistributed retained earnings of CEPS.
The following items of income, expenses and cash flows can be attributed to the
discontinuing operation (in CZK millions):
2004 2003 2002
--------- --------- ----------
Total revenues - 2,023 5,692
Operating profit - 1,013 1,684
Income from associate 780 630 -
Income before income taxes 780 1,609 1,531
Income tax expense - 302 470
Cash flow from operating activities - 1,055 1,460
Cash flow from investing activities - (113) (477)
Cash flow from financing activities - - -
The income tax expense shown above does not include deferred tax from
consolidation of undistributed retained earnings of CEPS.
F-42
26. Net Income per Share
2004 2003*) 2002*)
--------- --------- ----------
Numerator - basic and diluted (CZK millions)
Net income 13,059 8,869 8,421
========= ========= ==========
Denominator (thousands shares)
Basic:
Weighted average shares outstanding 592,075 590,772 590,363
Dilutive effect of treasury shares 136 1,439 1,787
--------- --------- ----------
Diluted:
Adjusted weighted average shares 592,211 592,211 592,150
========= ========= ==========
Net income per share (CZK per share)
Basic 22.1 15.0 14.3
Diluted 22.1 15.0 14.2
*) Comparative information has been restated (see Note 2.4(a)).
27. Commitment and Contingencies
Investment Program
- ------------------
The Group is engaged in a continuous construction program, currently estimated
as of December 31, 2004 to total CZK 105.6 billion over the next five years, as
follows: CZK 17.3 billions in 2005, CZK 19.9 billions in 2006, CZK 23.4 billions
in 2007, CZK 22.4 billions in 2008 and CZK 22.6 billions 2009. These figures do
not include the expected acquisitions of subsidiaries and associates, which are
estimated at up to CZK 90 billions in the period 2005 through 2009. The actual
payments for acquisitions will depend on the number of future investment
opportunities, for which the Company will be successful bidder and also
considering the recoverability of these investments.
The construction programs are subject to periodic reviews and actual
construction may vary from the above estimates. At December 31, 2004 significant
purchase commitments were outstanding in connection with the construction
program.
The Company currently projects that its planned construction expenditures will
be funded mainly with cash provided by operating activities.
Environmental Matters
- ---------------------
The Czech Republic has adopted a series of environmental acts and laws and
regulations ("the Acts") including a timetable for the reduction of atmospheric
emissions in the period from 1992 through December 31, 1998. As of December 31,
1998, all plants operated by the Company had been upgraded to meet the
environmental requirements of the Acts.
The Company is also liable under the Acts for past environmental damage. In
2004, 2003 and 2002, payments made to state farms, individual farms,
cooperatives, other agricultural firms and forests totaled CZK 4 million, CZK 6
million and CZK 9 million, respectively. Based on current estimates of its
probable future obligations, the Company provided CZK 40 million in 2004, CZK 40
million in 2003 and CZK 47 million in 2002, respectively, for pollution damages.
In 2004, 2003 and 2002 the Company further reversed CZK 36 million, CZK 54
million and CZK 72 million, respectively. Although uncertainties exist due to
interpretations of applicable laws, management does not believe, based upon the
information available at this time, that the ultimate outcome of these matters
will have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial position or
results of operations.
F-43
Insurance Matters
- -----------------
The Nuclear Act (see Note 14) sets limits for liabilities for nuclear damages by
the operator of nuclear installations/licenses. The Nuclear Act provides that
operators of nuclear facilities are liable for up to CZK 6 billion per incident
and that the reimbursement of such liability up to CZK 6 billion is guaranteed
by the state. The Nuclear Act limits the liability for damage caused by other
activities (such as transportation) to CZK 1.5 billion. The Nuclear Act also
requires an operator/licensee to insure its liability connected with the
operation of a nuclear power plant up to a minimum of CZK 1.5 billion and up to
a minimum of CZK 200 million for other activities (such as transportation). CEZ
has obtained all insurance policies with minimal limits as required by the law.
CEZ concluded about mentioned insurance policies with Czech nuclear pool, a
group of insurance companies.
CEZ has renewed insurance policies covering the assets of its fossil, hydro and
nuclear power plants, insurance policies covering non-technological equipment,
general third party liability insurance in connection with main operations of
the Company and car insurance.
CEZ and the Group companies have insurance policies covering directors and
officers liability. CEZ also controls other property and liability insurance
policies of the Group companies.
F-44
28. Events After the Balance Sheet Date
On January 18, 2005, CEZ obtained a 67% share in three Bulgarian electricity
distribution companies, Elektrorazpredelenie Pleven EAD, Elektrorazpredelenie
Sofia Oblast EAD and Elektrorazpredelenie Stolichno EAD. For this acquisition
the Company has paid in cash a total of EUR 281.5 million (see Notes 4 and 6).
The valuation of assets and liabilities of the acquired companies was not
finalized as of the date, when these financial statements have been authorized
for issue.
On April 5, 2005, CEZ signed an agreement about the privatization of a Romanian
distribution company Electrica Oltenia. Through this transaction CEZ will
acquire 51% share in the company for a total amount of EUR 151 million.
29. Presentation of Financial Statements
The accompanying consolidated financial statements are presented on the basis of
International Financial Reporting Standards and Interpretations issued by the
International Accounting Standards Board. Certain accounting principles
generally accepted in the Czech Republic ("CAS") do not conform to IFRS used in
preparing the accompanying consolidated financial statements. A description of
the significant adjustments required to conform the Company's statutory balances
to consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with IFRS is set
forth in the following tables.
The effect on retained earnings and other reserves of differences in IFRS and
CAS is as follows (in CZK millions):
December 31,
---------------------------
2004 2003
------------- ----------
Balance per CAS (standalone) 88,523 79,863
Impact of consolidation 1,109 (635)
------------- ----------
Balance per CAS (consolidated) 89,632 79,228
Accumulated provision for nuclear decommissioning and spent fuel
storage (Note 14) (14,569) (14,415)
Capitalized costs of nuclear provisions 12,195 12,125
CASTOR containers write-off (1,191) (1,209)
Deferred tax on nuclear provisions, capitalized costs of nuclear
provisions and CASTOR containers write-off, net 865 971
Reversal of repairs and maintenance accrual, net of deferred tax 3,647 2,545
Impact of CAS/IFRS accounting differences on the associate, net of
deferred tax (537) (247)
Interest capitalized, net of deferred tax 17,705 16,829
Depreciation of interest capitalized, net of deferred tax (3,383) (2,455)
Grants received, net of deferred tax (550) (670)
Gain (loss) on derivatives, net of deferred tax 2 -
Other IAS 39 differences 94 43
Electrometers, net of deferred tax 779 970
Finance leases - lessee, net of deferred tax 102 109
Share options - 18
Rights, net of deferred tax (54) (116)
Revaluation on acquisition 2 (5)
Reclassification of items from retained earnings, net (246) (223)
Other differences (22) (26)
------------- ---------
Balance per IFRS 104,471 93,472
============= =========
F-45
The effect on net income of differences in IFRS and CAS is as follows (in CZK
millions):
Year ended December 31,
--------------------------------------------
2004 2003 2002
-------------- ------------- -------------
Net income per CAS (standalone) 12,364 13,931 6,713
Impact of consolidation 1,416 1,648 608
-------------- ------------- -------------
Net income per CAS (consolidated) 13,780 15,579 7,321
Accumulated provision for nuclear decommissioning and spent fuel storage
(Note 14) 406 889 413
Capitalized costs of nuclear provisions (466) (344) (261)
CASTOR containers write-off 17 (26) (63)
Deferred tax on nuclear provisions, capitalized costs of nuclear
provisions and CASTOR containers write-off, net (130) (266) (28)
Reversal of repairs and maintenance accrual, net of deferred tax 1,095 179 170
Impact of CAS/IFRS accounting differences on the associate, net of
deferred tax (319) (10) 91
Interest capitalized, net of deferred tax 876 1,348 1,405
Depreciation of interest capitalized, net of deferred tax (928) (835) (471)
Grants received, net of deferred tax 51 32 34
Gain (loss) on derivatives, net of deferred tax 1,188 (263) 580
Additional foreign exchange rate differences under IAS 39, net of
deferred tax - - (577)
Other IAS 39 differences, net of deferred tax 50 (12) (85)
Electrometers, net of deferred tax (102) 21 -
Finance leases - lessee, net of deferred tax (1) 4 -
Share options (148) (2) -
Rights, net of deferred tax 28 (17) -
Revaluation on acquisition 9 (5) -
Sale of CEPS, net of tax (2,436) (7,162) -
(Profit) loss on sale of treasury shares 223 5 (18)
Reclassification of items from retained earnings, net (232) (220) (90)
Other differences 98 (26) -
-------------- ------------- -------------
Net income per IFRS 13,059 8,869 8,421
============== ============= =============
F-46
30. Summary of Differences between Accounting Principles Adopted by CEZ and
Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States (US GAAP)
The consolidated financial statements of CEZ have been prepared in accordance
with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), which differ in certain
respects from generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (US
GAAP). The significant differences are described below. Other differences do not
have a significant effect on either consolidated net income or shareholders'
equity.
Reconciliation of Consolidated Net Income for 2004
The estimated effect of the significant adjustments to consolidated net income
for the year ended December 31, 2004 which would be required if US GAAP were to
be applied are summarized in the following table (in CZK millions).
2004
Net income under IFRS 13,059
Fair value adjustment on acquisition of minority interest (9)
Provision for onerous contract (345)
Minority interest in reconciling items 118
Deferred taxes 82
-------
Net income under US GAAP 12,905
Other comprehensive income 4
-------
Total comprehensive income 12,909
=======
Earnings per share (CZK per share):
Net income
Basic 21.8
Diluted 21.8
Average number of shares (000's shares)
Basic 592,075
Diluted 592,211
Reconciliation of Consolidated Net Income for 2003 and 2002 - Restated
In separate transactions during both April 2003 and in January 2004, the Group
acquired majority control in various entities which were and are ultimately
under the common control of the Group's ultimate shareholder. Specifically, in
April 2003 the Group acquired control of five regional distribution companies
("REAS"). Also, in January 2004 the Group acquired direct controlling ownership
over SKODA PRAHA in which it previously held a minority investment (see Notes 6
and 7).
Under IFRS existing at the time of the transactions, common control acquisitions
have been accounted for at historical costs with results of operations of the
acquired companies being consolidated prospectively from the date of acquisition
(see Note 2.3). Under US GAAP, the Group is required to restate its historical
financial information to present comparative financial information for
accounting periods prior to these acquisitions so as to present the combined
results of operations in a manner similar to a "pooling of interests". Due to
the significance of this reconciling item between IFRS and US GAAP, the
consolidated income statement reconciliation has been expanded to reflect the
impact of this common control accounting on condensed financial statement line
items.
F-47
The net income, shareholders equity and earnings per share amounts in accordance
with US GAAP as previously disclosed for 2003 and 2002 and the amounts included
in the restated reconciliation from IFRS to US GAAP, which reflect the effect of
acquisitions under common control accounted in a manner similar to "pooling of
interest", are as follows (in CZK millions):
2003 2002
Net income
As previously disclosed 8,837 8,421
As restated using pooling of interest method 9,488 10,021
Shareholders' equity under IFRS
As previously disclosed 153,114 143,675
As restated using pooling of interest method 153,530 162,122
Net income per share basic (CZK per share)
As previously disclosed 15.0 14.3
As restated using pooling of interest method 16.1 17.0
Net income per share diluted (CZK per share)
As previously disclosed 14.9 14.2
As restated using pooling of interest method 16.0 16.9
F-48
The estimated effect of the significant adjustments for the year ended December
31, 2003 and 2002 which would be required if US GAAP were to be applied are
summarized as follows (in CZK millions):
Pre-acquisition
Year ended December 31, 2003 (restated) results of
commonly Other US GAAP /
IFRS as controlled IFRS
reported acquisitions differences1) Total
Revenues:
Sales of electricity 79,548 8,882 - 88,430
Heat sales and other revenues 5,268 2,407 - 7,675
-------- -------- -------- --------
Total revenues 84,816 11,289 - 96,105
Operating expenses:
Fuel 14,307 108 - 14,415
Purchased power and related services 21,100 4,378 - 25,478
Repairs and maintenance 4,226 207 - 4,433
Depreciation and amortization 16,961 1,018 - 17,979
Salaries and wages 7,994 1,123 - 9,117
Materials and supplies 3,670 339 - 4,009
Other operating expenses 3,554 2,374 272 6,200
-------- -------- -------- --------
Total expenses 71,812 9,547 272 81,631
-------- -------- -------- --------
Income before other expenses (income) and income taxes 13,004 1,742 (272) 14,474
Other expenses (income):
Interest on debt, net of capitalized interest 1,714 35 - 1,749
Interest on nuclear provisions 1,680 - - 1,680
Interest income (319) (44) - (363)
Foreign exchange rate losses (gains), net (1,915) (10) - (1,925)
Other expenses (income), net 2,170 (16) - 2,154
Income from associates (1,063) (67) - (1,130)
-------- -------- -------- --------
Total other expenses (income) 2,267 (102) - 2,165
-------- -------- -------- --------
Income before income taxes 10,737 1,844 (272) 12,309
Income taxes 1,349 573 (156) 1,766
-------- -------- -------- --------
Income after income taxes 9,388 1,271 (116) 10,543
Minority interest 519 600 (64) 1,055
-------- -------- -------- --------
Net income 8,869 671 (52) 9,488
======== ======== ======== ========
Other comprehensive income (268)
--------
Total comprehensive income 9,220
========
Net income per share (CZK per share)
Basic 15.0 16.1
Diluted 15.0 16.0
Average number of shares outstanding (000s)
Basic 590,772 590,772
Diluted 592,211 592,211
1) Other US GAAP / IFRS differences represent the adjustments related to
provision for onerous contract, which was reversed for US GAAP purposes.
F-49
Year ended December 31, 2002 (restated) Pre-acquisition
results of
commonly Other US GAAP /
IFRS as controlled IFRS
reported acquisitions differences1) Total
Revenues:
Sales of electricity 52,938 34,450 - 87,388
Heat sales and other revenues 2,640 6,382 - 9,022
-------- -------- -------- --------
Total revenues 55,578 40,832 - 96,410
Operating expenses:
Fuel 12,894 263 - 13,157
Purchased power and related services 7,328 19,368 - 26,696
Repairs and maintenance 3,847 1,745 - 5,592
Depreciation and amortization 11,721 3,868 - 15,589
Salaries and wages 3,854 4,108 - 7,962
Materials and supplies 1,838 1,946 - 3,784
Other operating expenses 2,873 5,180 333 8,386
-------- -------- -------- --------
Total expenses 44,355 36,478 333 81,166
-------- -------- -------- --------
Income before other expenses (income) and income taxes 11,223 4,354 (333) 15,244
Other expenses (income):
Interest on debt, net of capitalized interest 582 230 - 812
Interest on nuclear provisions 1,532 - - 1,532
Interest income (149) (149) - (298)
Foreign exchange rate losses (gains), net (3,340) (703) - (4,043)
Other expenses (income), net 1,299 (23) - 1,276
Income from associates (497) 244 - (253)
-------- -------- -------- --------
Total other expenses (income) (573) (401) - (974)
-------- -------- -------- --------
Income before income taxes 11,796 4,755 (333) 16,218
Income taxes 3,375 1,539 (103) 4,811
-------- -------- -------- --------
Income after income taxes 8,421 3,216 (230) 11,407
Minority interest - 1,498 (112) 1,386
-------- -------- -------- --------
Net income 8,421 1,718 (118) 10,021
======== ======== ======== ========
Other comprehensive income 144
--------
Total comprehensive income 10,165
========
Net income per share (CZK per share)
Basic 14.3 17.0
Diluted 14.2 16.9
Average number of shares outstanding (000s)
Basic 590,363 590,363
Diluted 592,150 592,150
1) Other US GAAP / IFRS differences represent the adjustments related to
provision for onerous contract, which was reversed for US GAAP purposes.
F-50
Reconciliation of Consolidated Shareholders Equity for 2004 and 2003
The estimated effect of the significant adjustments to consolidated net
shareholders equity as of December 31, 2004 and 2003 which would be required if
US GAAP were to be applied are summarized in the following table (in CZK
millions).
December 31
--------------------------------
2004 2003 *)
--------------- -------------
Shareholders' equity under IFRS 163,689 152,624
Fair value adjustment on acquisition of minority interest:
Fair value adjustment to assets 857 -
Decrease of goodwill (687) -
Provision for onerous contract 906 1,251
Common control accounting applied to SKODA PRAHA - 416
Minority interest in reconciling items (294) (458)
Deferred tax effect of the reconciling items (446) (303)
--------------- -------------
Shareholders' equity under US GAAP 164,025 153,530
=============== =============
*) Comparative information has been restated (see Note 2.4(a)).
F-51
US GAAP Consolidated Statement of Shareholders' Equity (in millions of CZK)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Number of Transla- Fair value Share-
Shares (in Stated tion and Other Retained holders'
thousands) Capital Difference Reserves Earnings Equity
---------- ------- ---------- ---------- -------- ---------
December 31, 2001 590,138 59,050 - 6 94,881 153,937
Non-cash capital contribution 123 12 - - - 12
Change in fair value of available-for-sale
financial assets recognized in equity - - - 128 - 128
Net income - - - - 10,021 10,021
Acquisition of treasury shares (1,950) (181) - - - (181)
Sale of treasury shares 1,965 160 - - 17 177
Dividends declared - - - - (1,988) (1,988)
Other movements - - - - 16 16
---------- ---------- ------- ------- ---------- ----------
December 31, 2002 590,276 59,041 - 134 102,947 162,122
Change in accounting policy - effect of
change in group structure (Note 2.4(b)) - - - - 721 721
Net income - - - - 9,488 9,488
Unrealized loss on available for sale
securities - - - (233) - (233)
Gain on sale of subsidiary CEPS, net of tax
(Note 25) - - - - 7,162 7,162
Effect of acquisition of REAS on equity - - - - (23,169) (23,169)
Sale of treasury shares 1,190 111 - - (5) 106
Dividends declared - - - - (2,657) (2,657)
Returned dividends on treasury shares - - - - 4 4
Share options - - - 21 - 21
Share on equity movements of associates - - - - (15) (15)
Other movements - - 1 (3) (18) (20)
---------- ---------- ------- ------- ---------- ----------
December 31, 2003 591,466 59,152 1 (81) 94,458 153,530
Net income - - - - 12,905 12,905
Unrealized gain on available for sale
securities - - - 55 - 55
Change in fair value of cash flow hedges
recognized in equity - - - (690) - (690)
Reclassification into earnings from cash
flow hedges - - - 621 - 621
Gain on sale of subsidiary CEPS, net of tax
(Note 25) - - - - 2,436 2,436
Effect of acquisition of SKODA PRAHA on
equity (Note 6) - - - - (85) (85)
Acquisition of treasury shares (2,355) (488) - - - (488)
Sale of treasury shares 3,090 554 - - (223) 331
Dividends declared - - - - (4,738) (4,738)
Share options - - - 130 - 130
Share on equity movements of associates - - - - 34 34
Other movements - - (3) - (13) (16)
---------- ---------- ------- ------- ---------- ----------
December 31, 2004 592,201 59,218 (2) 35 104,774 164,025
========== ========== ======= ======= ========== ==========
F-52
Fair value adjustment on acquisition of minority interest
Under IFRS in case of subsequent acquisition of a minority interest in
subsidiary, which has been already controlled by the Group, the goodwill is
measured as the difference between the cost of the additionally acquired shares
and the book value of the minority interest acquired. Under US GAAP acquisitions
of minority interests in subsidiaries are accounted for using the purchase
method, which is based on the fair values of the acquired minority interests.
Under US GAAP the Group therefore records a fair value adjustment to the assets
and liabilities acquired and makes a corresponding adjustment to the balance of
goodwill. In subsequent periods the difference between IFRS and US GAAP is due
to the depreciation and amortization of fair value adjustments and the related
deferred tax effect.
Provision for onerous contract
Under IFRS the Group recognized a provision for onerous executory contract.
Under the definitions of IAS 37 an onerous contract is a contract in which the
unavoidable costs of meeting the obligations under the contract exceed the
economic benefits expected to be received under it. The recognition by a
purchaser of losses on firmly committed executory contracts was discussed by the
EITF in November 1999 and January 2000, but the Task Force did not reach
consensus on this issue and further discussions on the EITF Issue 99-14 have
been discontinued. Under the current US generally accepted accounting
principles, companies do not accrue the contingent losses related to executory
contracts in their balance sheets, but rather these losses are recognized over
the remaining life of the contract. Therefore the provision, which was
recognized under IFRS, was reversed for US GAAP purposes.
Other US GAAP Related Disclosures:
Associated Companies
As described in Note 7, the Company accounts for its investments in associated
companies using the equity method.
Consolidated retained earnings include undistributed earnings of associated
companies. These undistributed earnings net of deferred tax amounted to CZK
1,625 million, CZK 3,032 million and CZK 1,399 million as of December 31, 2004,
2003 and 2002. In 2004, 2003 and 2002, net dividends received from associated
companies amounted to CZK 824 million, CZK 182 million and CZK 114 million,
respectively.
Related Parties
As disclosed in Note 17, the payables from purchase of REAS to National Property
Fund amount to CZK 7,470 million as of December 31, 2003. The amount is
represented by two notes payable in the amount of CZK 3,735 million each with
original maturity on June 30, 2004, and June 30, 2005. Based on an agreement
between the Company and the National Property Fund both notes have been repaid
in 2004. Both notes had an interest rate of 3M PRIBOR + 0.3%.
Nuclear Decommissioning, Radioactive Waste and Spent Fuel Disposal Provisions
As discussed in Notes 2.23 and 14 to the consolidated financial statements the
Company adopted International Accounting Standard IAS 37 "Provisions, Contingent
Liabilities and Contingent Assets". According to the IAS 37, the amount
recognized as a provision should be the best estimate of the expenditure
required to settle the present obligation at the balance sheet date. For
calculation of these estimates in the case of nuclear provisions CEZ has
discounted expected future cash flows to their present values. The initial costs
of provisions were capitalized and are depreciated over the useful life of the
related assets (nuclear power plants). The increase of the provisions due to the
accretion of discount and effect of inflation is charged to income as a separate
component of interest expense. Under US GAAP the accretion of discount should be
presented as part of operating expenses. Changes in the provision, which result
from the consumption of nuclear fuel, are charged to income as part of the fuel
expense.
Under US GAAP CEZ applied SFAS No. 143 "Accounting for Asset Retirement
Obligations ". The statement requires the classification of the provision as a
liability on the balance sheet and its measurement using an expected cash flow
approach, in which multiple cash flow scenarios that reflect the range of
possible outcomes and a credit-
F-53
adjusted risk-free rate are used to estimate fair value. Since very similar
approach is used when calculating provision under IAS 37, there is no material
difference in calculation of the provision under US GAAP and IFRS.
Capitalized Software Costs
Included in Intangible Assets as of December 31, 2004 and 2003 is capitalized
software costs of CZK 1,294 million and CZK 1,184 million, respectively. Under
US GAAP, these costs would typically be classified as a component of property,
plant and equipment.
Intangible Assets
Aggregate amortization expenses of intangible assets were estimated for each of
the five succeeding fiscal years in million of CZK.
Year Amortization
2005 817
2006 658
2007 520
2008 365
2009 34
Financial Assets Available for Sale
The composition of financial assets available for sale was as follows (in CZK
millions):
2004 2003
-------- --------
Equity securities 1,760 5,157
Debt securities 232 390
-------- --------
Total 1,992 5,547
======== ========
The proceeds from sales of available for sale securities and the net realized
gains and losses were as follows (in CZK millions):
2004 2003 2002
-------- -------- --------
Proceeds from the sale of available for sale securities 4,643 5,169 718
Historical cost basis (4,121) (5,174) (315)
-------- -------- --------
Net realized gains/(losses) 522 (5) 403
======== ======== ========
The future maturities of debt securities are as follows (in CZK millions):
2004 2003
---------- ----------
Within one year - -
After one year through five years - 158
After five years through ten years 232 -
More than ten years - 232
---------- ----------
Total debt securities 232 390
========== ==========
F-54
Debt Guarantees
Czech Republic has guaranteed certain debt of the Company. The balance of the
long-term debt guaranteed by the State amounted to CZK 3,315 millions and CZK
5,028 millions as of December 31, 2004 and 2003, respectively.
Stock-based Compensation
As described in Note 23, during 2004, 2003 and 2002 the Company has granted
stock options to members of the Board of Directors, Supervisory board and
certain other members of management. The Company has elected to account for
employee stock options under US GAAP in accordance with Accounting Principles
Board Opinion No. 25 (APB 25) "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees" and
related interpretations and to furnish the pro forma disclosures required under
SFAS No. 123 "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation".
APB 25 requires recognition of compensation expense over the period, when the
employee performs services for the Company. The expense recognized in accordance
with APB 25 is the quoted market price of the stock at the measurement date less
the amount, if any, that the employee is required to pay. The measurement date
is the first date on which are known both the number of shares that an
individual employee is entitled to receive and the exercise price payable by the
employee. In contrast, SFAS No. 123 requires recognition of compensation expense
for grants of stock options based on the estimated grant-date fair values of
those grants.
The options may be exercised immediately and at any time during the period
specified in the relevant stock option agreement, such period generally set to
correspond the term for which the member was elected or appointed to the
respective board. Accordingly, the measurement date was the grant date.
In 2004, 2003 and 2002 the Company has recognized the compensation expense in
accordance with APB 25. In 2002 the exercise price of CEZ's employee stock
options was higher than the market price of the underlying stock at the
measurement days and therefore no compensation expense was recognized in
accordance with APB 25 in these periods. Had compensation cost for management
incentive schemes been determined based on the fair value at the grant dates for
options under those schemes consistent with the method prescribed in SFAS No.
123, the Company's net income and earnings per share would have been reduced to
the pro forma amounts indicated below (in CZK millions, except per share data):
2004 2003 *) 2002 *)
----------- ------------ ------------
Net income, as reported 12,905 8,837 8,421
Add: Stock-based employee compensation expense included in
reported net income, net of related tax effects 148 2 -
Deduct: Total stock-based employee compensation expense
determined under fair value based method for all awards (163) (2) -**)
----------- ------------ ------------
Pro forma 12,890 8,837 8,421
=========== ============ ============
Basic income per share (CZK per share)
As reported 21.8 15.0 14.3
Pro forma 21.8 15.0 14.3
Diluted income per share (CZK per share)
As reported 21.8 14.9 14.2
Pro forma 21.8 14.9 14.2
*) Comparative information has been restated (see Note 2.4(a)).
**) The fair value of options granted in 2002 is 0.3 million CZK.
The fair value of the options is estimated on the date of grant using the
binomial option-pricing model. Because the Company's employee stock options have
characteristics significantly different from those of traded options, and
because changes in the subjective input assumptions can materially affect the
fair value estimate, in management's
F-55
opinion, the existing models do not necessarily provide a reliable single
measure of the fair value of its employee stock options.
At the grant dates, the underlying assumptions and the resulting fair values per
option were as follows:
2004 2003 2002
------------ ------------ ---------
Weighted average assumptions
Dividend yield 3.8% 7.6% 2.9%
Expected volatility 29.49% 22.4% 40.2%
Risk-free interest rate 2.79% 2.1% 2.6%
Expected life (years) 2.3 3.6 1.3
Weighted average grant-date fair value
of options [CZK per 1 option]
75.9 17.9 17.4
On December 31, 2004, 2003 and 2002, respectively, the exercise prices of
outstanding options were in the range from CZK 101.9 to CZK 185.6 from CZK 88.8
to CZK 128.6 and from CZK 72.5 to CZK 96.4 per share. On December 31, 2004, 2003
and 2002, respectively the options outstanding had an average remaining
contractual life of 3.2 years, 1.8 years and 1.4 years, respectively.
For further information on stock-based compensation see Note 23.
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts (in millions of CZK)
Balance at Acquisition Charges to
beginning of of Disposal of cost and Balance at
Provisions on assets to which they apply: year subsidiaries subsidiary expenses Deductions end of year
----------------------------------------- ------------ ------------- ----------- ---------- ----------- -----------
2002
Nuclear provision 21,396 - - 3,278 (808) 23,866
Other provisions 649 - - 91 (88) 652
Provision for doubtful current and
non-current receivables 715 - - 348 (335) 728
2003
Nuclear provision 23,866 146 - 5,551 (1,399) 28,164
Provision for onerous contract - 1,486 - - (235) 1,251
Other provisions 652 586 - 735 (413) 1,560
Provision for doubtful current and
non-current receivables 728 1,642 (4) 1,090 (1,124) 2,332
2004
Nuclear provision 28,164 - - 2,660 (1,383) 29,441
Provision for onerous contract 1,251 - - 39 (384) 906
Other provisions 1,560 290 - 752 (1,178) 1,424
Provision for doubtful current and
non-current receivables 2,332 191 - 264 (1,104) 1,683
Contingencies
In the ordinary course of business, the Company is involved in various legal
actions and claims. Although it is not possible to predict with certainty the
outcome or costs of these matters, the Company believes the likelihood is remote
that individually or in the aggregate any sum required to be paid in connection
with liabilities recorded related to these matters will have a material adverse
affect on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
F-56
Deferred Taxes
Under IFRS, the presentation of deferred taxes differs from the methodology set
forth in US GAAP. For purposes of US GAAP, deferred tax assets and liabilities
must either be classified as current or non-current based on the classification
of the related non-tax asset or liability for financial reporting. The table
presents the deferred tax assets and liabilities computed based on IAS 12 but
presented based on the methodology of FAS 109."Accounting for Income Taxes" (in
millions of CZK).
2004 2003 *)
--------- -----------
Non-current assets:
Accumulated provision for nuclear decommissioning
and spent fuel storage 5,925 6,641
CASTOR containers write off 286 338
Other provisions 650 885
Tax loss carry forwards 110 25
Revaluation of financial assets 11 17
Other deductible differences 71 171
7,053 8,077
Deferred tax assets 7,053 8,077
Current liabilities:
Penalty receivables 46 71
Other temporary differences 38 17
84 88
Non-current liabilities:
Tax depreciation in excess of financial
statement depreciation 13,103 12,102
Capitalized interest 5,032 5,590
Capitalized cost of provisions 2,927 3,395
Repairs and maintenance accrual 1,206 987
Investment in associate 520 1,490
22,788 23,564
Deferred tax liabilities 22,872 23,652
Total deferred tax liabilities, net 15,819 15,575
*) Comparative information has been restated (see Note 2.4(a)).
F-57
New pronouncements
In December 2003, the FASB revised the provisions of FASB Statement No. 132,
Employers' Disclosures about Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits, to
include additional disclosures related to defined-benefit pension plans and
other defined-benefit post-retirement plans, such as the following:
o The long-term rate of return on plan assets, along with a narrative
discussion on the basis for selecting the rate of return used
o Information about plan assets for each major asset category (i.e. equity
securities, debt securities, real estate, etc.) along with the targeted
allocation percentage of plan assets for each category and the actual
allocation percentages at the measurement date
o The amount of benefit payments expected to be paid in each of the next five
years and the following five-year period in the aggregate
o The current best estimate of the range of contributions expected to be made
in the following year
o The accumulated benefit obligation for defined-benefit pension plans
o Disclosure of the measurement date utilized.
The provisions of FAS 132R do not change the measurement or recognition
provisions of defined-benefit pension and post-retirement plans as required by
previous accounting standards. The provisions of FAS 132R were applied by the
Group effective for the year ended December 31, 2004.
In March 2004, the EITF reached a consensus on Issue No. 03-1, The Meaning of
Other-Than-Temporary Impairment and Its Application to Certain Investments,
which provides guidance on assessing whether impairments are
other-than-temporary for marketable debt and equity securities accounted for
under SFAS No. 115, and non-marketable equity securities accounted for under the
cost method. The consensus also requires certain disclosures about unrealized
losses that have not been recognized in earnings as other-than-temporary
impairments. The disclosure provisions were effective for all periods ending
after December 15, 2003. The other-than-temporary impairment application
guidance was to be effective for reporting periods beginning after June 15,
2004.
In September 2004, the FASB issued FSP No. EITF Issue 03-1-1, "Effective Date of
Paragraphs 10-20 of EITF Issue No. 03-1, The Meaning of Other-Than-Temporary
Impairment and its Application to Certain Investments, which delays indefinitely
the application of guidance provisions of EITF Issue No. 03-1 until further
application guidance can be considered by the FASB. The FSP did not delay the
effective date for the disclosure provisions of EITF No. 03-1. The Group
continues to monitor this issue; however, based upon developments to date the
Group does not expect the final guidance to have a material impact on its
consolidated results of operations, financial position or cash flows.
In December 2004, the FASB issued FASB Statement No. 123 (revised 2004),
Share-Based Payments (FAS 123R). The statement requires the measurement and
recognition of the cost of employee services received in exchange for an award
of equity instruments based on fair value of the award at the grant-date. The
cost is recognized over the period during which an employee is required to
provide service in exchange for the award. The standard supersedes APB 25,
Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees, and prohibits the use of the
"intrinsic value" method of accounting for share-based payment transactions. FAS
123R is effective as of the beginning of the first interim or annual reporting
period that begins after June 15, 2005; however, early application is possible.
The Group intends to adopt the revised standard as of January 1, 2005, from
which date the Group will also adopt IFRS 2, a similar standard under IFRS. The
Group is currently estimating the impact of adopting FAS 123R on the financial
statements.
In November 2004, the FASB issued FASB Statement No. 151, Inventory Costs, an
amendment of ARB No. 43, Chapter 4, clarifying the existing requirements in ARB
No. 43 by adopting language similar to that used in IAS 2. The guidance is
effective for inventory costs incurred during fiscal years beginning after June
15, 2005. The adoption of FAS 151 will not have an impact on the Group's
consolidated results of operation or financial position, since the key elements
are already utilized in the Group's IFRS and US GAAP consolidated financial
statements.
In December 2004, the FASB published FASB Statement No. 153, Exchanges of Non
Monetary Assets an amendment of APB Opinion No. 29. This statement addresses the
measurement of exchanges of non monetary assets. It eliminates the exception
from fair value measurement for non monetary exchanges of similar productive
assets in paragraph 21(b) of APB Opinion 29, and replaces it with an exception
for exchanges that do not have commercial substance. This statement specifies
that a non monetary exchange has commercial substance if the future cash flows
of the entity are expected to change significantly as a result of the exchange.
FASB No. 153 is effective
F-58
for non monetary asset exchanges occurring in fiscal periods beginning after
June 15, 2005, however early adoption is possible.
F-59
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934, the Registrant certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing
on Form 20-F and has duly caused this Annual Report to be signed on its behalf
by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
CEZ, a. s.
By: /s/ Martin Roman
----------------------------
Name: Martin Roman
Title: Chief Executive Officer and
Chairman of the Board of
Directors
By: /s/ Petr Voboril
----------------------------
Name: Petr Voboril
Title: Chief Financial Officer and
Vice-Chairman of the Board of
Directors
Date: July 15, 2005
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
CEZ, a. s.
Exhibits to Form 20-F
1.* Articles of Association (Stanovy) of CEZ, a. s.
4.1* Collective Bargaining Agreement, dated January 29, 2004
4.2 Share Privatization Sale Agreement between the Republic of Bulgaria and
CEZ, a. s., dated November 19, 2004
8. List of Subsidiaries
12.1 Certification of Martin Roman, our Chief Executive Officer, pursuant to
Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
12.2 Certification of Petr Voboril, our Chief Financial Officer, pursuant to
Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
13.** Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to
Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
* This exhibit is incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our
Annual Report on Form 20-F dated June 30, 2004.
** This document is being furnished in accordance with SEC Release Nos.
33-8212 and 34-47551.