UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, DC 20549

 

FORM 10-Q

 

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

For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2017

Or

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

For the transition period from                   to                  

Commission File No. 001-37660

 

Avangrid, Inc.

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)

 

 

New York

 

14-1798693

( State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization )

 

(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)

 

 

157 Church Street

New Haven, Connecticut

 

06506

(Address of principal executive offices)

 

(Zip Code)

 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (207) 688-6000

 

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       No  

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).     Yes       No  

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

 

Large accelerated filer

 

  

Accelerated filer

 

 

 

 

 

Non-accelerated filer

 

  (Do not check if a small reporting company)

  

Smaller reporting company

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Emerging growth company

 

 

 

 

 

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes       No  

As of May 3, 2017, the registrant had 309,069,291 shares of common stock, par value $0.01, outstanding.

 

 

 

 

 


 

Avangrid, Inc.

REPORT ON FORM 10-Q

For the Quarter Ended March 31, 2017

INDEX

 

2


 

GLOSSARY OF TERMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

Unless the context indicates otherwise, the terms “we,” “our” and the “Company” are used to refer to AVANGRID and its subsidiaries.

Consent order refers to the partial consent order issued by DEEP in August 2016.

English Station site refers to the former generation site on the Mill River in New Haven, Connecticut.

Form 10-K refers to Avangrid, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 10, 2017.

Ginna refers to the Ginna Nuclear Power Plant, LLC and the R.E. Ginna Nuclear Power Plant.

Iberdrola Group refers to the group of companies controlled by Iberdrola, S.A.

Iberdrola refers to Iberdrola, S.A., which owns 81.6% of the outstanding shares of common stock of Avangrid, Inc.

Installed capacity refers to the production capacity of a power plant or wind farm based either on its rated (nameplate) capacity or actual capacity.

Joint Proposal refers to the Proposal, filed with the NYPSC on February 19, 2016 by NYSEG, RG&E and other signatory parties for a three-year rate plan for electric and gas service at NYSEG and RG&E commencing May 1, 2016.

Klamath Plant refers to the Klamath gas-fired cogeneration facility located in the city of Klamath, Oregon.

Non-GAAP refers to the financial measures that are not prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP, including adjusted gross margin, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income and adjusted earnings per share.

Yankee Companies refers to the Maine Yankee Atomic Power Company, the Connecticut Yankee Power Corporation, and the Yankee Atomic Energy Corporation.

 

AOCI

 

Accumulated other comprehensive income

 

 

 

ARHI

 

Avangrid Renewables Holdings, Inc.

 

 

 

ASC

 

Accounting Standards Codification

 

 

 

AVANGRID

 

Avangrid, Inc.

 

 

 

Bcf

 

One billion cubic feet

 

 

 

BGC

 

The Berkshire Gas Company

 

 

 

BMG

 

Bank Mendes Gans, N.V.

 

 

 

Cayuga

 

Cayuga Operating Company, LLC

 

 

 

CfDs

 

Contracts for Differences

 

 

 

CL&P

 

The Connecticut Light and Power Company

 

 

 

CMP

 

Central Maine Power Company

 

 

 

CNG

 

Connecticut Natural Gas Corporation

 

 

 

DEEP

 

Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection

 

 

 

DOE

 

Department of Energy

 

 

 

DPA

 

Deferred Payment Arrangements

 

 

 

EBITDA

 

Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization

 

 

 

ESM

 

Earnings sharing mechanism

 

 

 

Evergreen Power

 

Evergreen Power III, LLC

 

 

 

Exchange Act

 

The Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended

 

 

 

FASB

 

Financial Accounting Standards Board

 

 

 

FERC

 

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission

 

 

 

3


 

FirstEnergy

 

FirstEnergy Corp.

 

 

 

Gas

 

Enstor Gas, LLC

 

 

 

ISO

 

Independent system operator

 

 

 

MNG

 

Maine Natural Gas Corporation

 

 

 

MPUC

 

Maine Public Utility Commission

 

 

 

MtM

 

Mark-to-market

 

 

 

MW

 

Megawatts

 

 

 

MWh

 

Megawatt-hours

 

 

 

Networks

 

Avangrid Networks, Inc.

 

 

 

New York

TransCo

 

 

New York TransCo, LLC.

 

 

 

NYPSC

 

New York State Public Service Commission

 

 

 

NYSEG

 

New York State Electric & Gas Corporation

 

 

 

OCI

 

Other comprehesive income

 

 

 

PURA

 

Connecticut Public Utilities Regulatory Authority

 

 

 

Renewables

 

Avangrid Renewables, LLC

 

 

 

RG&E

 

Rochester Gas and Electric Corporation

 

 

 

ROE

 

Return on equity

 

 

 

RSSA

 

Reliability Support Services Agreement

 

 

 

SCG

 

The Southern Connecticut Gas Company

 

 

 

SEC

 

United States Securities and Exchange Commission

 

 

 

TEF

 

Tax equity financing arrangements

 

 

 

UI

 

The United Illuminating Company

 

 

 

UIL

 

UIL Holdings Corporation

 

 

 

U.S. GAAP

 

Generally accepted accounting principles for financial reporting in the United States.

 

 

 

VIEs

 

Variable interest entities

 

 

4


 

PART I. FINANCI AL INFORMATION

Item 1.  Financial Statements

Avangrid, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income

(unaudited)

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

 

March 31,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

(Millions, except for number of shares and per share data)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating Revenues

 

$

1,758

 

 

$

1,670

 

Operating Expenses

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Purchased power, natural gas and fuel used

 

 

465

 

 

 

428

 

Operations and maintenance

 

 

551

 

 

 

551

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

 

197

 

 

 

205

 

Taxes other than income taxes

 

 

147

 

 

 

137

 

Total Operating Expenses

 

 

1,360

 

 

 

1,321

 

Operating Income

 

 

398

 

 

 

349

 

Other Income and (Expense)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other income

 

 

13

 

 

 

49

 

Earnings from equity method investments

 

 

2

 

 

 

2

 

Interest expense, net of capitalization

 

 

(71

)

 

 

(84

)

Income Before Income Tax

 

 

342

 

 

 

316

 

Income tax expense

 

 

103

 

 

 

104

 

Net Income

 

 

239

 

 

 

212

 

Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net Income Attributable to Avangrid, Inc.

 

$

239

 

 

$

212

 

Earnings Per Common Share, Basic

 

$

0.77

 

 

$

0.69

 

Earnings Per Common Share, Diluted

 

$

0.77

 

 

$

0.69

 

Weighted-average Number of Common Shares Outstanding:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic

 

 

309,508,889

 

 

 

309,538,215

 

Diluted

 

 

309,837,442

 

 

 

309,808,006

 

Cash Dividends Declared Per Common Share

 

$

0.432

 

 

$

0.432

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of our condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

 

 

5


 

Avangrid, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income

(unaudited)

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

 

March 31,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

(Millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net Income

 

$

239

 

 

$

212

 

Other Comprehensive Income, Net of Tax

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Amounts arising during the period:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gain on defined benefit plans, net of income tax of $2.8

 

 

 

 

 

4

 

Unrealized gain during the period on derivatives qualifying

   as cash flow hedges, net of income taxes of $1.3 and

   $1.2, respectively

 

 

2

 

 

 

2

 

Reclassification to net income of losses (gains) on cash flow

   hedges, net of income taxes of $13.6 and $(16.6), respectively

 

 

23

 

 

 

(26

)

Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

 

 

25

 

 

 

(20

)

Comprehensive Income

 

 

264

 

 

 

192

 

Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

 

 

 

 

 

 

Comprehensive Income Attributable to Avangrid, Inc.

 

$

264

 

 

$

192

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of our condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

 

6


 

Avangrid, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

(unaudited)

 

 

 

March 31,

 

 

December 31,

 

As of

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

(Millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

$

30

 

 

$

91

 

Accounts receivable and unbilled revenues, net

 

 

1,117

 

 

 

1,119

 

Accounts receivable from affiliates

 

 

17

 

 

 

25

 

Derivative assets

 

 

57

 

 

 

99

 

Fuel and gas in storage

 

 

235

 

 

 

246

 

Materials and supplies

 

 

113

 

 

 

132

 

Prepayments and other current assets

 

 

281

 

 

 

255

 

Regulatory assets

 

 

248

 

 

 

285

 

Total Current Assets

 

 

2,098

 

 

 

2,252

 

Property, plant and equipment, at cost

 

 

27,320

 

 

 

27,063

 

Less: accumulated depreciation

 

 

(7,158

)

 

 

(6,986

)

Net Property, Plant and Equipment in Service

 

 

20,162

 

 

 

20,077

 

Construction work in progress

 

 

1,635

 

 

 

1,471

 

Total Property, Plant and Equipment ($1,101 and

   $1,144 related to VIEs, respectively)

 

 

21,797

 

 

 

21,548

 

Equity method investments

 

 

384

 

 

 

387

 

Other investments

 

 

57

 

 

 

55

 

Regulatory assets

 

 

3,111

 

 

 

3,091

 

Other Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Goodwill

 

 

3,124

 

 

 

3,124

 

Intangible assets

 

 

534

 

 

 

538

 

Derivative assets

 

 

76

 

 

 

73

 

Other

 

 

215

 

 

 

241

 

Total Other Assets

 

 

3,949

 

 

 

3,976

 

Total Assets

 

$

31,396

 

 

$

31,309

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of our condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

7


 

Avangrid, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

(unaudited)

 

 

 

March 31,

 

 

December 31,

 

As of

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

(Millions, except share information)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current Liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current portion of debt

 

$

325

 

 

$

349

 

Tax equity financing arrangements - VIEs

 

 

81

 

 

 

96

 

Notes payable

 

 

350

 

 

 

151

 

Notes payable to affiliates

 

 

17

 

 

 

10

 

Interest accrued

 

 

65

 

 

 

60

 

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities

 

 

902

 

 

 

1,096

 

Accounts payable to affiliates

 

 

120

 

 

 

218

 

Dividends payable

 

 

134

 

 

 

134

 

Taxes accrued

 

 

61

 

 

 

52

 

Derivative liabilities

 

 

50

 

 

 

75

 

Other current liabilities

 

 

283

 

 

 

279

 

Regulatory liabilities

 

 

200

 

 

 

192

 

Total Current Liabilities

 

 

2,588

 

 

 

2,712

 

Regulatory liabilities

 

 

1,755

 

 

 

1,753

 

Deferred income taxes regulatory

 

 

574

 

 

 

565

 

Other Non-current Liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deferred income taxes

 

 

3,068

 

 

 

2,976

 

Deferred income

 

 

1,464

 

 

 

1,483

 

Pension and other postretirement

 

 

1,106

 

 

 

1,106

 

Tax equity financing arrangements - VIEs

 

 

95

 

 

 

103

 

Derivative liabilities

 

 

80

 

 

 

78

 

Asset retirement obligations

 

 

167

 

 

 

161

 

Environmental remediation costs

 

 

386

 

 

 

398

 

Other

 

 

354

 

 

 

342

 

Total Other Non-current Liabilities

 

 

6,720

 

 

 

6,647

 

Non-current Debt

 

 

4,507

 

 

 

4,510

 

Total Non-current Liabilities

 

 

13,556

 

 

 

13,475

 

Total Liabilities

 

 

16,144

 

 

 

16,187

 

Commitments and Contingencies

 

 

 

 

 

 

Equity

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stockholders’ Equity:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common stock, $.01 par value, 500,000,000 shares authorized, 309,670,932 and

   309,600,439 shares issued; 309,069,291 and 308,993,149 shares outstanding,

   respectively

 

 

3

 

 

 

3

 

Additional paid in capital

 

 

13,653

 

 

 

13,653

 

Treasury Stock

 

 

(5

)

 

 

(5

)

Retained earnings

 

 

1,649

 

 

 

1,544

 

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

 

 

(61

)

 

 

(86

)

Total Stockholders’ Equity

 

 

15,239

 

 

 

15,109

 

Non-controlling interests

 

 

13

 

 

 

13

 

Total Equity

 

 

15,252

 

 

 

15,122

 

Total Liabilities and Equity

 

$

31,396

 

 

$

31,309

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of our condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

 

8


 

Avangrid, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(unaudited)

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

 

March 31,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

(Millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash Flow from Operating Activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

$

239

 

 

$

212

 

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating

   activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

 

197

 

 

 

205

 

Accretion expenses

 

 

3

 

 

 

3

 

Regulatory assets/liabilities amortization

 

 

19

 

 

 

41

 

Regulatory assets/liabilities carrying cost

 

 

10

 

 

 

10

 

Pension cost

 

 

28

 

 

 

33

 

Stock-based compensation

 

 

1

 

 

 

1

 

Earnings from equity method investments

 

 

(2

)

 

 

(2

)

Amortization of debt cost (premium)

 

 

2

 

 

 

(7

)

Gain on disposal of property and equity method investment

 

 

 

 

 

(31

)

Unrealized (gain) loss on marked-to-market derivative contracts

 

 

(27

)

 

 

29

 

Deferred taxes

 

 

95

 

 

 

106

 

Other non-cash items

 

 

(22

)

 

 

(3

)

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accounts receivable and unbilled revenues

 

 

11

 

 

 

16

 

Inventories

 

 

11

 

 

 

75

 

Other assets/liabilities

 

 

64

 

 

 

(129

)

Cash distribution from equity method investments

 

 

3

 

 

 

3

 

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities

 

 

(155

)

 

 

(108

)

Taxes accrued

 

 

9

 

 

 

9

 

Regulatory assets/liabilities

 

 

(45

)

 

 

(67

)

Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities

 

 

441

 

 

 

396

 

Cash Flow from Investing Activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Capital expenditures

 

 

(525

)

 

 

(276

)

Contributions in aid of construction

 

 

6

 

 

 

8

 

Government grants

 

 

 

 

 

1

 

Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment

 

 

1

 

 

 

 

Proceeds from sale of equity method and other investment

 

 

 

 

 

54

 

Receipts from affiliates

 

 

 

 

 

6

 

Cash distribution from equity method investments

 

 

2

 

 

 

2

 

Other investments and equity method investments, net

 

 

2

 

 

 

4

 

Net Cash Used in Investing Activities

 

 

(514

)

 

 

(201

)

Cash Flow from Financing Activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Repayments of non-current debt

 

 

(4

)

 

 

(42

)

Receipts (repayments) of other short-term debt, net

 

 

205

 

 

 

(160

)

Payments on tax equity financing arrangements

 

 

(27

)

 

 

(17

)

Repayments of capital leases

 

 

(27

)

 

 

(1

)

Issuance of common stock

 

 

(1

)

 

 

 

Dividends paid

 

 

(134

)

 

 

 

Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities

 

 

12

 

 

 

(220

)

Net Decrease in Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash

 

 

(61

)

 

 

(25

)

Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash, Beginning of Period

 

 

96

 

 

 

434

 

Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash, End of Period

 

$

35

 

 

$

409

 

Supplemental Cash Flow Information

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash paid for interest, net of amounts capitalized

 

$

45

 

 

$

57

 

Cash paid for income taxes

 

 

3

 

 

 

5

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of our condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

 

9


 

Avangrid, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity

(unaudited)

 

 

 

Avangrid, Inc. Stockholders

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Millions, except for number of shares )

 

Number of

shares (*)

 

 

Common Stock

 

 

Additional

paid-in

capital

 

 

Treasury

Stock

 

 

Retained

Earnings

 

 

Accumulated

Other

Comprehensive

Loss

 

 

Total

Stockholders’ Equity

 

 

Non

controlling

Interests

 

 

Total

 

As of December 31, 2015

 

 

308,864,609

 

 

$

3

 

 

$

13,653

 

 

$

 

 

$

1,449

 

 

$

(52

)

 

$

15,053

 

 

$

13

 

 

$

15,066

 

Net Income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

212

 

 

 

 

 

 

212

 

 

 

 

 

 

212

 

Other comprehensive loss, net of tax of $(12.6)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(20

)

 

 

(20

)

 

 

 

 

 

(20

)

Comprehensive income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

192

 

Dividends declared

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(134

)

 

 

 

 

 

(134

)

 

 

 

 

 

(134

)

Release of common stock held in trust

 

 

132,800

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Issuance of common stock

 

 

97,479

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As of March 31, 2016

 

 

309,094,888

 

 

$

3

 

 

$

13,653

 

 

$

 

 

$

1,527

 

 

$

(72

)

 

$

15,111

 

 

$

13

 

 

$

15,124

 

As of December 31, 2016

 

 

308,993,149

 

 

$

3

 

 

$

13,653

 

 

$

(5

)

 

$

1,544

 

 

$

(86

)

 

$

15,109

 

 

$

13

 

 

$

15,122

 

Net Income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

239

 

 

 

 

 

 

239

 

 

 

 

 

 

239

 

Other comprehensive income, net of tax of $14.9

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

25

 

 

 

25

 

 

 

 

 

 

25

 

Comprehensive income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

264

 

Dividends declared

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(134

)

 

 

 

 

 

(134

)

 

 

 

 

 

(134

)

Release of common stock held in trust

 

 

5,649

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Issuance of common stock

 

 

70,493

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1

)

 

 

 

 

 

(1

)

Stock-based compensation

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

 

 

 

1

 

As of March 31, 2017

 

 

309,069,291

 

 

$

3

 

 

$

13,653

 

 

$

(5

)

 

$

1,649

 

 

$

(61

)

 

$

15,239

 

 

$

13

 

 

$

15,252

 

 

(*)

Par value of share amounts is $0.01

The accompanying notes are an integral part of our condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

 

 

10


 

Avangrid, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(unaudited)

 

 

Note 1. Background and Nature of Operations

Avangrid, Inc., formerly Iberdrola USA, Inc. (AVANGRID, we or the Company), is an energy services holding company engaged in the regulated energy distribution business through its principal subsidiary Avangrid Networks, Inc. (Networks) and in the renewable energy generation and gas storage and trading businesses through its principal subsidiary, Avangrid Renewables Holding, Inc. (ARHI). ARHI in turn holds subsidiaries including Avangrid Renewables, LLC (Renewables) and Enstor Gas, LLC (Gas). Iberdrola, S.A. (Iberdrola), a corporation organized under the laws of the Kingdom of Spain, owns 81.6% the outstanding common stock of AVANGRID. The remaining outstanding shares are publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange and owned by various shareholders. AVANGRID was originally organized in 1997 as NGE Resources, Inc. under the laws of New York as the holding company for the principal operating utility companies.

Note 2. Basis of Presentation

The accompanying notes should be read in conjunction with the notes to the consolidated financial statements of Avangrid, Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 and for the three years ended December 31, 2016 included in AVANGRID’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016.

The accompanying unaudited financial statements are prepared on a consolidated basis and include the accounts of AVANGRID and its consolidated subsidiaries Networks and ARHI. Intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. The year-end balance sheet data was derived from audited financial statements. The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements for the interim periods have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (U.S. GAAP) for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, the interim condensed consolidated financial statements do not include all the information and note disclosures required by U.S. GAAP for complete financial statements.

We believe the disclosures made are adequate to make the information presented not misleading. In the opinion of management, the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements contain all adjustments necessary to present fairly our condensed consolidated balance sheets, condensed consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, cash flows and changes in equity for the interim periods described herein. All such adjustments are of a normal and recurring nature, except as otherwise disclosed. The results for the three months ended March 31, 2017, are not necessarily indicative of the results for the entire fiscal year ending December 31, 2017.

 

Note 3. Significant Accounting Policies and New Accounting Pronouncements

As of March 31, 2017, there have been no material changes to any significant accounting policies described in our consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, and for the three years ended December 31, 2016. The following are new accounting pronouncements issued since December 31, 2016, that we are evaluating to determine their effect on our condensed consolidated interim financial statements.

(a) Clarifying the definition of a business and the scope of asset derecognition guidance, and accounting for partial sales of nonfinancial assets

The Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued amendments in January 2017 to clarify the definition of a business, and in a second phase of the project, issued amendments in February 2017 concerning asset derecognition and partial sales of nonfinancial assets. The revised definition of a business sets out a new framework for a company to apply in classifying transactions as acquisitions (or disposals) of assets versus businesses. According to the revised definition, an integrated set of activities and assets is a business if it has at a minimum, an input and a substantive process that together significantly contribute to the ability to create outputs. The definition of outputs is narrowed and aligned with how outputs are described in Accounting Standards Codification, Topic 606, Revenue From Contracts With Customers (ASC 606). The amendments create a two-step method for assessing whether a transaction is an acquisition (disposal) of assets or a business. A set would not be a business when substantially all of the fair value of the gross assets acquired (disposed) is concentrated in a single identifiable asset or group of similar identifiable assets. Fewer transactions are expected to involve acquiring or selling a business as a result of the amendments.

The amendments issued in February 2017 clarify the scope of asset derecognition guidance and accounting for partial sales of nonfinancial assets, and also define in-substance nonfinancial assets. Those amendments apply to a company that: sells nonfinancial assets (land, buildings, materials and supplies, intangible assets) to noncustomers; sells nonfinancial assets and financial assets (cash, receivables) when the value is concentrated in the nonfinancial assets; or sells partial ownership interests in nonfinancial assets. The

11


 

amendments do not apply to sales to customers or to sales of businesses. The new guidance in ASC 610-20 on accounting for derecognition of a nonfinancial asset and an in-substance nonfinancial as set applies only when the asset (or asset group) does not meet the definition of a business and is not a not-for-profit activity.

The amendments issued in both January 2017 and February 2017 as described above are effective for public entities for annual and interim periods in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, with early adoption permitted. We do not plan to early adopt. For the amendments concerning the definition of a business, an entity should apply the amendments prospectively on or after the effective date. For the amendments concerning asset derecognition and partial sales of nonfinancial assets an entity must apply them at the same time that it applies the new ASC 606 revenue recognition standard and may elect to apply the amendments retrospectively following either a full retrospective approach or a modified retrospective approach, but does not have to apply the same transition method as for ASC 606. Regardless of which transition method an entity applies to contracts with noncustomers, such as transactions within the scope of ASC 610-20, it must apply the amended definition of a business to those contracts. We expect the amendments issued in both January 2017 and February 2017 will affect our accounting for tax equity investments, which we expect to classify as noncontrolling interests in accordance with ASC 606. We are currently evaluating how our adoption of the amendments will affect our results of operations, financial position, cash flows, and disclosures.

(b) Improving the presentation of net periodic benefit costs

In March 2017 the FASB issued amendments to improve the presentation of net periodic pension cost and net periodic postretirement benefit cost in the financial statements. The amendments require an entity to present service cost separately from the other components of net benefit cost, and to report the service cost component in the income statement line item(s) where it reports the corresponding compensation cost. An entity is to present all other components of net benefit cost outside of operating cost, if it presents that subtotal. The amendments also allow only the service cost component to be eligible for capitalization when applicable (for example, as a cost of a self-constructed asset). The amendments are effective for public entities for annual and interim periods in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, with early adoption permitted. We do not plan to early adopt. An entity is required to apply the amendments retrospectively for the presentation of the service cost component and the other components of net periodic pension cost and net periodic postretirement benefit cost in the income statement and prospectively, on and after the effective date, for the capitalization of the service cost component of net periodic pension cost and net periodic postretirement benefit in assets. A practical expedient allows an entity to retrospectively apply the amendments on adoption to net benefit costs for comparative periods by using the amounts disclosed in the notes to financial statements for pension and postretirement benefit plans for those periods. We are currently evaluating how our adoption of the amendments will affect our results of operations, financial position, cash flows, and disclosures.

 

 

Note 4. Regulatory Assets and Liabilities

Pursuant to the requirements concerning accounting for regulated operations, our utilities capitalize, as regulatory assets, incurred and accrued costs that are probable of recovery in future electric and natural gas rates. We base our assessment of whether recovery is probable on the existence of regulatory orders that allow for recovery of certain costs over a specific period, or allow for reconciliation or deferral of certain costs. When costs are not treated in a specific order we use regulatory precedent to determine if recovery is probable. Our operating utilities also record, as regulatory liabilities, obligations to refund previously collected revenue or to spend revenue collected from customers on future costs. Substantially all assets or liabilities for which funds have been expended or received are either included in the rate base or are accruing a carrying cost until they will be included in the rate base. The primary items that are not included in the rate base or accruing carrying costs are the regulatory assets for qualified pension and other postretirement benefits, which reflect unrecognized actuarial gains and losses, debt premium, environmental remediation costs which is primarily the offset of accrued liabilities for future spending, unfunded future income taxes, which are the offset to the unfunded future deferred income tax liability recorded , asset retirement obligations, hedge losses and contracts for differences. The total amount of these items is approximately $2,212 million.

Regulatory assets and regulatory liabilities shown in the tables below result from various regulatory orders that allow for the deferral and/or reconciliation of specific costs.  Regulatory assets and regulatory liabilities are classified as current when recovery or refund in the coming year is allowed or required through a specific order or when the rates related to a specific regulatory asset or regulatory liability are subject to automatic annual adjustment.

On June 15, 2016, the New York State Public Service Commission (NYPSC) approved the Joint Proposal (Proposal) in connection with a three-year rate plan for electric and gas service at New York State Electric & Gas Corporation (NYSEG) and Rochester Gas and Electric Corporation (RG&E) effective May 1, 2016. Following the approval of the Proposal most of these items related to NYSEG are amortized over a five-year period, except the portion of storm costs to be recovered over ten years, unfunded deferred taxes being amortized over a period of fifty years and plant related tax items which are amortized over the life of associated plant. Annual amortization expense for NYSEG is approximately $16.5 million per rate year. RG&E items that are being amortized are plant related tax items, which are amortized over the life of associated plant, and unfunded deferred taxes being amortized over a period of fifty years. A majority of the other items related to RG&E, which net to a regulatory liability, remains deferred and will not be

12


 

amortized until future proceedings or will be used to recover costs of the Ginna Reliability Support Services Agreement (Ginna RSSA).

In the approved Proposal the allowed rate of return on common equity is 9.0% for all companies. The equity ratio for each company is 48%; however the equity ratio is set at 50% for earnings sharing calculation purposes. The customer share of any earnings above allowed levels increases as the ROE increases, with customers receiving 50%, 75% and 90% of earnings over 9.5%, 10.0% and 10.5% ROE, respectively, in the first year. The rate plans also include the implementation of a rate adjustment mechanism designed to return or collect certain defined reconciled revenues and costs; new depreciation rates; and continuation of the existing revenue decoupling mechanisms for each business.

In December 2016, PURA approved new distribution rate schedules for UI for three years which became effective January 1, 2017 and which, among other things, decreased the UI distribution and Competitive Transition Assessment (CTA) allowed ROE from 9.15% to 9.10%, continued UI’s existing earnings sharing mechanism by which UI and customers share on a 50/50 basis all distribution earnings above the allowed ROE in a calendar year, continued the existing decoupling mechanism, and approved the continuation of the requested storm reserve.

13


 

Current and non-current regulatory assets as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively, consisted of:

 

 

 

March 31,

 

 

December 31,

 

As of

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

(Millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pension and other post-retirement benefits cost deferrals

 

$

23

 

 

$

22

 

Pension and other post-retirement benefits

 

 

7

 

 

 

7

 

Storm costs

 

 

40

 

 

 

40

 

Temporary supplemental assessment surcharge

 

 

3

 

 

 

4

 

Reliability support services

 

 

27

 

 

 

27

 

Revenue decoupling mechanism

 

 

13

 

 

 

15

 

Transmission revenue reconciliation mechanism

 

 

14

 

 

 

12

 

Electric supply reconciliation

 

 

 

 

 

13

 

Hedges losses

 

 

12

 

 

 

10

 

Contracts for differences

 

 

12

 

 

 

14

 

Hardship programs

 

 

16

 

 

 

16

 

Deferred property tax

 

 

10

 

 

 

10

 

Plant decommissioning

 

 

6

 

 

 

6

 

Deferred purchased gas

 

 

1

 

 

 

14

 

Deferred transmission expense

 

 

15

 

 

 

13

 

Environmental remediation costs

 

 

13

 

 

 

14

 

Other

 

 

36

 

 

 

48

 

Total Current Regulatory Assets

 

 

248

 

 

 

285

 

Non-current

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pension and other post-retirement benefits cost deferrals

 

 

129

 

 

 

134

 

Pension and other post-retirement benefits

 

 

1,285

 

 

 

1,320

 

Storm costs

 

 

232

 

 

 

187

 

Deferred meter replacement costs

 

 

31

 

 

 

32

 

Unamortized losses on reacquired debt

 

 

19

 

 

 

20

 

Environmental remediation costs

 

 

285

 

 

 

287

 

Unfunded future income taxes

 

 

536

 

 

 

542

 

Asset retirement obligation

 

 

16

 

 

 

18

 

Deferred property tax

 

 

29

 

 

 

33

 

Federal tax depreciation normalization adjustment

 

 

160

 

 

 

161

 

Merger capital expense target customer credit

 

 

11

 

 

 

11

 

Debt premium

 

 

146

 

 

 

151

 

Reliability support services

 

 

49

 

 

 

2

 

Plant decommissioning

 

 

14

 

 

 

14

 

Contracts for differences

 

 

68

 

 

 

61

 

Hardship programs

 

 

14

 

 

 

18

 

Other

 

 

87

 

 

 

100

 

Total Non-current Regulatory Assets

 

$

3,111

 

 

$

3,091

 

 

“Pension and other post-retirement benefits” represent the actuarial losses on the pension and other post-retirement plans that will be reflected in customer rates when they are amortized and recognized in future pension expenses. “Pension and other post-retirement benefits cost deferrals” include the difference between actual expense for pension and other post-retirement benefits and the amount provided for in rates for certain of our regulated utilities. The recovery of these amounts will be determined in future proceedings.

“Storm costs” for Central Maine Power (CMP), NYSEG and RG&E are allowed in rates based on an estimate of the routine costs of service restoration. The companies are also allowed to defer unusually high levels of service restoration costs resulting from major storms when they meet certain criteria for severity and duration. The portion of storm costs in the amount of $123 million is being recovered over ten-year period and the remaining portion is being amortized over five years following the approval of the Proposal by the NYPSC. UI is allowed to defer costs associated with any storm totaling $1 million or greater for future recovery. UI’s storm regulatory asset balance was $0 as of March 31, 2017.

14


 

“Deferred meter replacement costs” represent the deferral of the book value of retired meters which were replaced by advanced metering infrastructure meters. This amount is being amortized over the initial depreciation period of related retired meters.

“Unamortized losses on reacquired debt” represent deferred losses on debt reacquisitions that will be recovered over the remaining original amortization period of the reacquired debt.

“Unfunded future income taxes” represent unrecovered federal and state income taxes primarily resulting from regulatory flow through accounting treatment and are the offset to the unfunded future deferred income tax liability recorded. The income tax benefits or charges for certain plant related timing differences, such as removal costs, are immediately flowed through to, or collected from, customers. This amount is being amortized as the amounts related to temporary differences that give rise to the deferrals are recovered in rates. Following the approval of the Proposal by the NYPSC, these amounts will be collected over a period of fifty years, and the NYPSC Staff will perform an audit of the unfunded future income taxes and other tax assets to verify the balances.

“Asset retirement obligations” (ARO) represent the differences in timing of the recognition of costs associated with our AROs and the collection of such amounts through rates. This amount is being amortized at the related depreciation and accretion amounts of the underlying liability.

“Deferred property taxes” represents the customer portion of the difference between actual expense for property taxes and the amount provided for in rates. The New York (NY) amount is being amortized over a five year period following the approval of the Proposal by the NYPSC.

“Federal tax depreciation normalization adjustment” represents the revenue requirement impact of the difference in the deferred income tax expense required to be recorded under the IRS normalization rules and the amount of deferred income tax expense that was included in cost of service for rates years covering 2011 forward. The recovery period in NY is from 27 to 39 years and for CMP this will be determined in future Maine Public Utility Commission (MPUC) rate proceedings.

“Hardship Programs” represent hardship customer accounts deferred for future recovery to the extent they exceed the amount in rates.

“Deferred Purchased Gas” represents the difference between actual gas costs and gas costs collected in rates.

“Environmental remediation costs” includes spending that has occurred and is eligible for future recovery in customer rates. Environmental costs are currently recovered through a reserve mechanism whereby projected spending is included in rates with any variance recorded as a regulatory asset or a regulatory liability. The amortization period will be established in future proceedings and will depend upon the timing of spending for the remediation costs. It also includes the anticipated future rate recovery of costs that are recorded as environmental liabilities since these will be recovered when incurred. Because no funds have yet been expended for the regulatory asset related to future spending, it does not accrue carrying costs and is not included within rate base.

“Contracts for Differences” represent the deferral of unrealized gains and losses on contracts for differences derivative contracts.  The balance fluctuates based upon quarterly market analysis performed on the related derivatives. The amounts, which do not earn a return, are fully offset by a corresponding derivative asset/liability.

“Debt premium” represents the regulatory asset recorded to offset the fair value adjustment to the regulatory component of the non-current debt of UIL at the acquisition date. This amount is being amortized to interest expense over the remaining term of the related outstanding debt instruments.

“Deferred Transmission Expense” represents deferred transmission income or expense and fluctuates based upon actual revenues and revenue requirements.

15


 

Current and non-current regulatory liabilities as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively, consisted of:

 

 

 

March 31,

 

 

December 31,

 

As of

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

(Millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reliability support services (Cayuga)

 

$

1

 

 

$

3

 

Non by-passable charges

 

 

9

 

 

 

22

 

Energy efficiency portfolio standard

 

 

47

 

 

 

45

 

Gas supply charge and deferred natural gas cost

 

 

14

 

 

 

6

 

Transmission revenue reconciliation mechanism

 

 

9

 

 

 

5

 

Pension and other post-retirement benefits

 

 

1

 

 

 

3

 

Other post-retirement benefits cost deferrals

 

 

14

 

 

 

14

 

Carrying costs on deferred income tax bonus depreciation

 

 

15

 

 

 

15

 

Carrying costs on deferred income tax - Mixed Services

   263(a)

 

 

5

 

 

 

5

 

Yankee DOE Refund

 

 

22

 

 

 

24

 

Merger related rate credits

 

 

2

 

 

 

3

 

Revenue decoupling mechanism

 

 

3

 

 

 

9

 

Other

 

 

58

 

 

 

38

 

Total Current Regulatory Liabilities

 

 

200

 

 

 

192

 

Non-current

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accrued removal obligations

 

 

1,126

 

 

 

1,117

 

Asset sale gain account

 

 

9

 

 

 

9

 

Carrying costs on deferred income tax bonus depreciation

 

 

91

 

 

 

95

 

Economic development

 

 

34

 

 

 

35

 

Merger capital expense target customer credit account

 

 

14

 

 

 

15

 

Pension and other post-retirement benefits

 

 

72

 

 

 

76

 

Positive benefit adjustment

 

 

41

 

 

 

42

 

New York state tax rate change

 

 

8

 

 

 

9

 

Post term amortization

 

 

3

 

 

 

3

 

Theoretical reserve flow thru impact

 

 

23

 

 

 

24

 

Deferred property tax

 

 

18

 

 

 

19

 

Net plant reconciliation

 

 

10

 

 

 

10

 

Variable rate debt

 

 

28

 

 

 

28

 

Carrying costs on deferred income tax - Mixed Services

   263(a)

 

 

24

 

 

 

25

 

Rate refund – FERC ROE proceeding

 

 

26

 

 

 

26

 

Transmission congestion contracts

 

 

18

 

 

 

18

 

Merger-related rate credits

 

 

20

 

 

 

21

 

Accumulated deferred investment tax credits

 

 

14

 

 

 

15

 

Asset retirement obligation

 

 

11

 

 

 

13

 

Earning sharing provisions

 

 

22

 

 

 

12

 

Middletown/Norwalk local transmission network service collections

 

 

19

 

 

 

19

 

Low income programs

 

 

48

 

 

 

46

 

Non-firm margin sharing credits

 

 

10

 

 

 

7

 

Deferred income taxes regulatory

 

 

574

 

 

 

565

 

Other

 

 

66

 

 

 

69

 

Total Non-current Regulatory Liabilities

 

$

2,329

 

 

$

2,318

 

 

“Reliability support services (Cayuga)” represents the difference between actual expenses for reliability support services and the amount provided for in rates. This will be refunded to customers within the next year.

“Non by-passable charges” represent the non by-passable charge paid by all customers. An asset or liability is recognized resulting from differences between actual revenues and the underlying cost being recovered. This liability will be refunded to customers within the next year.

16


 

“Energy efficiency portfolio standard” represents the difference between revenue billed to customers through an energy efficiency charge and the costs of our energy efficiency programs as approved by the state authorities. This may be refunded to customers within the next year.

“Accrued removal obligations” represent the differences between asset removal costs recorded and amounts collected in rates for those costs. The amortization period is dependent upon the asset removal costs of underlying assets and the life of the utility plant.

“Asset sale gain account” represents the gain on NYSEG’s 2001 sale of its interest in Nine Mile Point 2 nuclear generating station. The net proceeds from the Nine Mile Point 2 nuclear generating station were placed in this account and will be used to benefit customers. The amortization period is five years following the approval of the Proposal by the NYPSC.

“Carrying costs on deferred income tax bonus depreciation” represent the carrying costs benefit of increased accumulated deferred income taxes created by the change in tax law allowing bonus depreciation. The amortization period is five years following the approval of the Proposal by the NYPSC.

“Economic development” represents the economic development program which enables NYSEG and RG&E to foster economic development through attraction, expansion, and retention of businesses within its service territory. If the level of actual expenditures for economic development allocated to NYSEG and RG&E varies in any rate year from the level provided for in rates, the difference is refunded to ratepayers. The amortization period is five years following the approval of the Proposal by the NYPSC.

“Merger capital expense target customer credit” account was created as a result of NYSEG and RG&E not meeting certain capital expenditure requirements established in the order approving the purchase of Energy East by Iberdrola. The amortization period is five years following the approval of the Proposal by the NYPSC.

“Pension and other postretirement benefits” represent the actuarial gains on other postretirement plans that will be reflected in customer rates when they are amortized and recognized in future expenses. Because no funds have yet been received for this, a regulatory liability is not reflected within rate base. They also represent the difference between actual expense for pension and other postretirement benefits and the amount provided for in rates. Recovery of these amounts will be determined in future proceedings.

“Positive benefit adjustment” resulted from Iberdrola’s 2008 acquisition of Energy East. This is being used to moderate increases in rates. The amortization period is five years following the approval of the Proposal by the NYPSC and included in the Ginna RSSA settlement.

“New York state tax rate change” represents excess funded accumulated deferred income tax balance caused by the 2014 New York state tax rate change from 7.1% to 6.5%. The amortization period is five years following the approval of the Proposal by the NYPSC.

“Post term amortization” represents the revenue requirement associated with certain expired joint proposal amortization items. The amortization period is five years following the approval of the Proposal by the NYPSC.

“Theoretical reserve flow thru impact” represents the differences from the rate allowance for applicable federal and state flow through impacts related to the excess depreciation reserve amortization. It also represents the carrying cost on the differences. The amortization period is five years following the approval of the Proposal by the NYPSC.

“Merger-related rate credits” resulted from the acquisition of UIL. This is being used to moderate increases in rates. In the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, $2 million and $20 million of rate credits was applied against customer bills.

“Excess generation service charge” represents deferred generation-related and non by-passable federally mandated congestion costs or revenues for future recovery from or return to customers.  The amount fluctuates based upon timing differences between revenues collected from rates and actual costs incurred.

“Low Income Programs” represent various hardship and payment plan programs approved for recovery.

“Other” includes cost of removal being amortized through rates and various items subject to reconciliation including variable rate debt, Medicare subsidy benefits and stray voltage collections.

 

 

17


 

Note 5. Fair Value of Financial Instruments and Fair Value Measurements

We determine the fair value of our derivative assets and liabilities and available for sale non-current investments associated with Networks’ activities utilizing market approach valuation techniques:

We measure the fair value of our noncurrent investments using quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets and include the measurements in Level 1. The available for sale investments, which are Rabbi Trusts for deferred compensation plans, primarily consist of money market funds and are included in Level 1 fair value measurement.

NYSEG and RG&E enter into electric energy derivative contracts to hedge the forecasted purchases required to serve their electric load obligations. They hedge their electric load obligations using derivative contracts that are settled based upon Locational Based Marginal Pricing published by the New York Independent System Operator (NYISO). RG&E hedges 70% of its electric load obligations using contracts for a NYISO location where an active market exists. The forward market prices used to value RG&E’s open electric energy derivative contracts are based on quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities with no adjustment required and therefore we include the fair value in Level 1. NYSEG’s electric energy derivative contracts are exchange traded contracts in a NYISO location where an active market exists. The forward market prices used to value NYSEG’s open electric energy derivative contracts are based on quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities with no adjustment required and therefore we include the fair value in Level 1.

NYSEG and RG&E enter into natural gas derivative contracts to hedge their forecasted purchases required to serve their natural gas load obligations. The forward market prices used to value open natural gas derivative contracts are exchange-based prices for the identical derivative contracts traded actively on the New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX). Because we use prices quoted in an active market we include the fair value measurements in Level 1.

NYSEG, RG&E and CMP enter into fuel derivative contracts to hedge their unleaded and diesel fuel requirements for their fleet vehicles. Exchange-based forward market prices are used but because an unobservable basis adjustment is added to the forward prices we include the fair value measurement for these contracts in Level 3.

Contracts for differences (CfDs) entered into by UI are marked-to-market based on a probability-based expected cash flow analysis that is discounted at risk-free interest rates and an adjustment for non-performance risk using credit default swap rates. We include the fair value measurement for these contracts in Level 3 (See Note 6 for further discussion on CfDs).

We determine the fair value of our derivative assets and liabilities associated with Renewables and Gas activities utilizing market approach valuation techniques. Exchange-traded transactions, such as NYMEX futures contracts, that are based on quoted market prices in active markets for identical product with no adjustment are included in the Level 1 fair value. Contracts with delivery periods of two years or less which are traded in active markets and are valued with or derived from observable market data for identical or similar products such as over-the-counter NYMEX, foreign exchange swaps, and fixed price physical and basis and index trades are included in Level 2 fair value. Contracts with delivery periods exceeding two years or that have unobservable inputs or inputs that cannot be corroborated with market data for identical or similar products are included in Level 3 fair value. The unobservable inputs include historical volatilities and correlations for tolling arrangements and extrapolated values for certain power swaps. The valuation for this category is based on our judgments about the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability since limited market data exists.

The carrying amounts for cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable, notes payable and interest accrued approximate their estimated fair values and are considered as Level 1.

Restricted cash was $5 million as of both March 31, 2017, and December 31, 2016, which is included in “Other Assets” on the balance sheet.

18


 

The financial instruments measured at fair value as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively, consisted of:

 

As of March 31, 2017

 

Level 1

 

 

Level 2

 

 

Level 3

 

 

Netting

 

 

Total

 

(Millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Securities portfolio (available for sale)

 

$

40

 

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

$

40

 

Derivative assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Derivative financial instruments - power

 

 

7

 

 

 

66

 

 

 

70

 

 

 

(57

)

 

86

 

Derivative financial instruments - gas

 

 

90

 

 

 

16

 

 

 

89

 

 

 

(165

)

 

30

 

Contracts for differences

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

17

 

 

 

 

 

17

 

Total

 

97

 

 

82

 

 

176

 

 

 

(222

)

 

133

 

Derivative liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Derivative financial instruments - power

 

 

(27

)

 

 

(26

)

 

 

(5

)

 

 

53

 

 

 

(5

)

Derivative financial instruments - gas

 

 

(94

)

 

 

(18

)

 

 

(39

)

 

 

125

 

 

 

(26

)

Contracts for differences

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(98

)

 

 

 

 

 

(98

)

Derivative financial instruments - other

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1

)

 

 

 

 

 

(1

)

Total

 

$

(121

)

 

$

(44

)

 

$

(143

)

 

$

178

 

 

$

(130

)

 

As of December 31, 2016

 

Level 1

 

 

Level 2

 

 

Level 3

 

 

Netting

 

 

Total

 

(Millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Securities portfolio (available for sale)

 

$

40

 

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

$

40

 

Derivative assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Derivative financial instruments - power

 

 

11

 

 

 

48

 

 

 

58

 

 

 

(42

)

 

 

75

 

Derivative financial instruments - gas

 

 

180

 

 

 

32

 

 

 

104

 

 

 

(239

)

 

 

77

 

Contracts for differences

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

20

 

 

 

 

 

 

20

 

Total

 

 

191

 

 

 

80

 

 

 

182

 

 

 

(281

)

 

 

172

 

Derivative liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Derivative financial instruments - power

 

 

(24

)

 

 

(27

)

 

 

(3

)

 

 

39

 

 

 

(15

)

Derivative financial instruments - gas

 

 

(213

)

 

 

(34

)

 

 

(53

)

 

 

257

 

 

 

(43

)

Contracts for differences

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(95

)

 

 

 

 

 

(95

)

Total

 

$

(237

)

 

$

(61

)

 

$

(151

)

 

$

296

 

 

$

(153

)

 

The reconciliation of changes in the fair value of financial instruments based on Level 3 inputs for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, is as follows:

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

 

March 31,

 

(Millions)

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

Fair Value Beginning of Period,

 

$

31

 

 

$

(19

)

Gains recognized in operating revenues

 

 

12

 

 

 

9

 

(Losses) recognized in operating revenues

 

 

(2

)

 

 

(6

)

Total gains recognized in operating revenues

 

 

10

 

 

 

3

 

Gains recognized in OCI

 

 

1

 

 

 

1

 

(Losses) recognized in OCI

 

 

(1

)

 

 

 

Total gains recognized in OCI

 

 

 

 

 

1

 

Net change recognized in regulatory assets and liabilities

 

 

(5

)

 

 

(25

)

Purchases

 

 

3

 

 

 

 

Settlements

 

 

(6

)

 

 

(5

)

Fair Value as of March 31,

 

$

33

 

 

$

(45

)

Gains for the period included in operating revenues

   attributable to the change in unrealized gains

   relating to financial instruments still held at the reporting date

 

$

10

 

 

$

3

 

For assets and liabilities that are recognized in the condensed consolidated financial statements at fair value on a recurring basis, we determine whether transfers have occurred between levels in the hierarchy by re-assessing categorization based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement as a whole at the end of each reporting period. There have been no transfers between Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 during the periods reported.

19


 

Level 3 Fair Value Measurement

The tables below illustrate the significant sources of unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of our Level 3 derivatives, and the variability in prices for those transactions classified as Level 3 derivatives.

 

As of March 31, 2017

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Instruments

 

Instrument

Description

 

Valuation

Technique

 

Valuation

Inputs

 

Index

 

Avg.

 

Max.

 

Min.

Fixed price power

and gas swaps

 

Transactions   with

delivery   periods

 

Transactions   are

valued   against

forward

market   prices

 

Observable   and

extrapolated

forward   gas   and

power   prices

not   all   of   which

can   be

 

NYMEX   ($/MMBtu)

 

$    4.15

 

$  7.37

 

$  1.64

with delivery

 

exceeding two

 

on a

 

corroborated by

 

SP15   ($/MWh)

 

$  42.70

 

$80.28

 

$14.25

period > two

 

years

 

discounted

 

market data for

 

Mid C   ($/MWh)

 

$  34.04

 

$83.93

 

$ (0.50)

years

 

 

 

basis

 

identical or

 

Cinergy   ($/MWh)

 

$  35.91

 

$77.49

 

$18.53

 

 

 

 

 

 

similar   products

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our Level 3 valuations primarily consist of NYMEX gas and fixed price power swaps with delivery periods extending through 2024 and 2032, respectively. The gas swaps are used to hedge both gas inventory in firm storage and merchant wind positions. The power swaps are used to hedge merchant wind production in the West and Midwest.

We performed a sensitivity analysis around the Level 3 gas and power positions to changes in the valuation inputs. Given the nature of the transactions in Level 3, the only material input to the valuation is the market price of gas or power for transactions with delivery periods exceeding two years. The fixed price power swaps are economic hedges of future power generation, with decreases in power prices resulting in unrealized gains and increases in power prices resulting in unrealized losses. The gas swaps are economic hedges of gas storage inventory and merchant generation, with decreases in gas prices resulting in unrealized gains and increases in gas prices resulting in unrealized losses. As all transactions are economic hedges of the underlying position, any changes in the fair value of these transactions will be offset by changes in the anticipated purchase/sales price of the underlying commodity.

Two elements of the analytical infrastructure employed in valuing transactions are the price curves used in calculation of market value and the models themselves. We maintain and document authorized trading points and associated forward price curves, and we develop and document models used in valuation of the various products.

Transactions are valued in part on the basis of forward price, correlation, and volatility curves. We maintain and document descriptions of these curves and their derivations. Forward price curves used in valuing the transactions are applied to the full duration of the transaction.

The determination of fair value of the CfDs (see Note 6 for further details on CfDs) was based on a probability-based expected cash flow analysis that was discounted at risk-free interest rates, as applicable, and an adjustment for non-performance risk using credit default swap rates. Certain management assumptions were required, including development of pricing that extended over the term of the contracts. We believe this methodology provides the most reasonable estimates of the amount of future discounted cash flows associated with the CfDs. Additionally, on a quarterly basis, we perform analytics to ensure that the fair value of the derivatives is consistent with changes, if any, in the various fair value model inputs. Significant isolated changes in the risk of non-performance, the discount rate or the contract term pricing would result in an inverse change in the fair value of the CfDs. Additional quantitative information about Level 3 fair value measurements of the CfDs is as follows:

 

 

 

Range at

Unobservable Input

 

March 31, 2017

Risk of non-performance

 

0.58% - 0.66%

Discount rate

 

1.50% - 2.40%

Forward pricing ($ per MW)

 

$3.15 - $9.55

 

Fair Value of Debt

As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 debt consisted of first mortgage bonds, fixed and variable unsecured pollution control notes, other various non-current debt securities and obligations under capital leases. The estimated fair value of debt amounted to

20


 

$5,243 million and $5,204 million as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively. The estimated fair value was determined, in most cases, by discounting the future cash flows at market interest rates. The interest rates used to make these calculations take into account the risks associated with the electricity industry and the credit ratings of the borrowers in each case. The fair value hierarchy pertaining to the fair value of debt is considered as Level 2 , except for unsecured pollution control notes-variable with a fair value of $61 million as of both March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, which are considered Level 3. The fair value of these unsecured pollution control notes-variable are determined using unobservable interest rates as the market for these notes is inactive.

 

 

Note 6. Derivative Instruments and Hedging

Our Networks, Renewables and Gas activities are exposed to certain risks, which are managed by using derivative instruments. All derivative instruments are recognized as either assets or liabilities at fair value on the condensed consolidated balance sheets in accordance with the accounting requirements concerning derivative instruments and hedging activities.

(a) Networks activities

NYSEG and RG&E have an electric commodity charge that passes through rates costs for the market price of electricity. They use electricity contracts, both physical and financial, to manage fluctuations in electricity commodity prices in order to provide price stability to customers. We include the cost or benefit of those contracts in the amount expensed for electricity purchased when the related electricity is sold. We record changes in the fair value of electric hedge contracts to derivative assets and / or liabilities with an offset to regulatory assets and / or regulatory liabilities, in accordance with the accounting requirements concerning regulated operations.

The amount recognized in regulatory assets for electricity derivatives was a loss of $20.1 million as of March 31, 2017, and $12.3 million as of December 31, 2016. The amount reclassified from regulatory assets and liabilities into income, which is included in electricity purchased, was a loss of $10.9 million and $34.8 million, for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

NYSEG and RG&E have purchased gas adjustment clauses that allow them to recover through rates any changes in the market price of purchased natural gas, substantially eliminating their exposure to natural gas price risk. NYSEG and RG&E use natural gas futures and forwards to manage fluctuations in natural gas commodity prices to provide price stability to customers. We include the cost or benefit of natural gas futures and forwards in the commodity cost that is passed on to customers when the related sales commitments are fulfilled. We record changes in the fair value of natural gas hedge contracts to derivative assets and / or liabilities with an offset to regulatory assets and / or regulatory liabilities in accordance with the accounting requirements for regulated operations.

The amount recognized in regulatory liabilities for natural gas hedges was a gain of $0.5 million as of March 31, 2017, and $3.5 million as of December 31, 2016. The amount reclassified from regulatory assets and liabilities into income, which is included in natural gas purchased, was a gain of $0.6 million and a loss $3.4 million, for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

Pursuant to PURA, UI and Connecticut’s other electric utility, The Connecticut Light and Power Company (CL&P), each executed two long-term CfDs with certain incremental capacity resources, each of which specifies a capacity quantity and a monthly settlement that reflects the difference between a forward market price and the contract price. The costs or benefits of each contract will be paid by or allocated to customers and will be subject to a cost-sharing agreement between UI and CL&P pursuant to which approximately 20% of the cost or benefit is borne by or allocated to UI customers and approximately 80% is borne by or allocated to CL&P customers.

PURA has determined that costs associated with these CfDs will be fully recoverable by UI and CL&P through electric rates, and UI has deferred recognition of costs (a regulatory asset) or obligations (a regulatory liability). For those CfDs signed by CL&P, UI records its approximate 20% portion pursuant to the cost-sharing agreement noted above. As of March 31, 2017, UI has recorded a gross derivative asset of $17 million ($0 of which is related to UI’s portion of the CfD signed by CL&P), a regulatory asset of $81 million, a gross derivative liability of $98 million ($76 million of which is related to UI’s portion of the CfD signed by CL&P) and a regulatory liability of $0. As of December 31, 2016, UI had recorded a gross derivative asset of $19 million ($0 of which is related to UI’s portion of the CfD signed by CL&P), a regulatory asset of $75 million, a gross derivative liability of $95 million ($70 million of which is related to UI’s portion of the CfD signed by CL&P) and a regulatory liability of $0.

21


 

The unrealized gains and losses from fair value adjustments to these derivatives, which are recor ded in regulatory assets or regulatory liabilities, for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, were as follows:

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

 

March 31,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

(Millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Regulatory Assets - Derivative liabilities

 

$

5

 

 

$

(3

)

Regulatory Liabilities - Derivative assets

 

$

1

 

 

$

(22

)

 

The net notional volumes of the outstanding derivative instruments associated with Networks activities as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively, consisted of:

 

 

 

March 31,

 

 

December 31,

As of

 

2017

 

 

2016

(Millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wholesale electricity purchase contracts (MWh)

 

 

5.0

 

 

5.6

Natural gas purchase contracts (Dth)

 

 

6.0

 

 

5.8

Fleet fuel purchase contracts (Gallons)

 

 

2.3

 

 

2.3

 

The offsetting of derivatives, location in the condensed consolidated balance sheet and amounts of derivatives associated with Networks activities as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively, consisted of:

 

As of March 31, 2017

 

Current

Assets

 

 

Noncurrent

Assets

 

 

Current

Liabilities

 

 

Noncurrent

Liabilities

 

(Millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Not designated as hedging instruments

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Derivative assets

 

$

16

 

 

$

10

 

 

$

6

 

 

$

1

 

Derivative liabilities

 

 

(5

)

 

 

(1

)

 

 

(39

)

 

 

(86

)

 

 

 

11

 

 

 

9

 

 

 

(33

)

 

 

(85

)

Designated as hedging instruments

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Derivative assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Derivative liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1

)

 

 

 

Total derivatives before offset of cash collateral

 

 

11

 

 

 

9

 

 

 

(34

)

 

 

(85

)

Cash collateral receivable

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12

 

 

 

8

 

Total derivatives as presented in the balance sheet

 

$

11

 

 

$

9

 

 

$

(22

)

 

$

(77

)

 

As of December 31, 2016

 

Current

Assets

 

 

Noncurrent

Assets

 

 

Current

Liabilities

 

 

Noncurrent

Liabilities

 

(Millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Not designated as hedging instruments

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Derivative assets

 

$

19

 

 

$

16

 

 

$

7

 

 

$

5

 

Derivative liabilities

 

 

(7

)

 

 

(5

)

 

 

(40

)

 

 

(79

)

 

 

 

12

 

 

 

11

 

 

 

(33

)

 

 

(74

)

Designated as hedging instruments

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Derivative assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Derivative liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total derivatives before offset of cash collateral

 

 

12

 

 

 

11

 

 

 

(33

)

 

 

(74

)

Cash collateral receivable

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10

 

 

 

2

 

Total derivatives as presented in the balance sheet

 

$

12

 

 

$

11

 

 

$

(23

)

 

$

(72

)

 

22


 

The effect of derivatives in cash f low hedging relationships on Other Comprehensive Income (OCI) and income for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, consisted of:

 

Three Months Ended  March 31,

 

(Loss) Recognized

in OCI on Derivatives

 

 

Location of

Loss Reclassified

from Accumulated

OCI into Income

 

Loss

Reclassified

from Accumulated

OCI into Income

 

(Millions)

 

Effective Portion (a)

 

 

Effective Portion (a)

 

2017

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest rate contracts

 

$

 

 

Interest expense

 

$

2

 

Commodity contracts

 

 

(1

)

 

Operating expenses

 

 

 

Total

 

$

(1

)

 

 

 

$

2

 

2016

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest rate contracts

 

$

 

 

Interest expense

 

$

2

 

Commodity contracts

 

 

 

 

Operating expenses

 

 

1

 

Total

 

$

 

 

 

 

$

3

 

 

(a) Changes in OCI are reported on a pre-tax basis. The reclassified amounts of commodity contracts are included within “Purchase power, natural gas and fuel used” line item within operating expenses in the condensed consolidated statements of income.

The net loss in accumulated OCI related to previously settled forward starting swaps and accumulated amortization is $74.9 million and $76.7 million as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively. We recorded $2.0 million and $2.0 million in net derivative losses related to discontinued cash flow hedges for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. We will amortize approximately $8.0 million of discontinued cash flow hedges in 2017. During the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, there was no ineffective portion for cash flow hedges.

The unrealized loss of $0.8 million on hedge activities is reported in OCI because the forecasted transaction is considered to be probable as of March 31, 2017. We expect that $0.8 million of those losses will be reclassified into earnings within the next twelve months. The maximum length of time over which we are hedging our exposure to the variability in future cash flows for forecasted fleet fuel transactions is twelve months.

(b) Renewables and Gas activities

We sell fixed-price gas and power forwards to hedge our merchant wind assets from declining commodity prices for our Renewables business. We also purchase fixed-price gas and basis swaps and sell fixed-price power in the forward market to hedge the spark spread or heat rate of our merchant thermal assets. We also enter into tolling arrangements to sell the output of our thermal generation facilities.

Our gas business purchases and sells both fixed-price gas and basis swaps to hedge the value of contracted storage positions. The intent of entering into these swaps is to fix the margin of gas injected into storage for subsequent resale in future periods. We also enter into basis swaps to hedge the value of our contracted transport positions. The intent of buying and selling these basis swaps is to fix the location differential between the price of gas at the receipt and delivery point of the contracted transport in future periods.

Both Renewables and Gas have proprietary trading operations that enter into fixed-price power and gas forwards in addition to basis swaps. The intent is to speculate on fixed-price commodity and basis volatility in the U.S. commodity markets.

Renewables will periodically designate derivative contracts as cash flow hedges for both its thermal and wind portfolios. To the extent that the derivative contracts are effective in offsetting the variability of cash flows associated with future power sales and gas purchases, the fair value changes are recorded in OCI. Any hedge ineffectiveness is recorded in current period earnings. For thermal operations, Renewables will periodically designate both fixed price NYMEX gas contracts and AECO basis swaps that hedge the fuel requirements of its Klamath Plant in Klamath, Oregon. Renewables will also designate fixed price power swaps at various locations in the U.S. market to hedge future power sales from its Klamath facility and various wind farms.

Gas also periodically designates NYMEX fixed price derivative contracts as cash flow hedges related to its firm storage trading activities. To the extent that the derivative contracts are effective in offsetting the variability of cash flows associated with future gas sales and purchases, the fair value changes are recorded in OCI. Any hedge ineffectiveness is recorded in current period earnings. Derivative contracts entered into to hedge the gas transport trading activities are not designated as cash flow hedges, with all changes in fair value of such derivative contracts recorded in current period earnings.

23


 

The net notional volumes of outstanding derivative instruments associated with Renewables and Gas activities as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively, consisted of:

 

 

 

March 31,

 

 

December 31,

 

As of

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

(MWh/Dth in millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wholesale electricity purchase contracts

 

 

2

 

 

 

3

 

Wholesale electricity sales contracts

 

 

7

 

 

 

7

 

Natural gas and other fuel purchase contracts

 

 

314

 

 

 

329

 

Financial power contracts

 

 

8

 

 

 

8

 

Basis swaps – purchases

 

 

60

 

 

 

49

 

Basis swaps – sales

 

 

76

 

 

 

45

 

 

The fair values of derivative contracts associated with Renewables and Gas activities as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively, consisted of:

 

 

 

March 31,

 

 

December 31,

 

As of

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

(Millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wholesale electricity purchase contracts

 

$

(10

)

 

$

(2

)

Wholesale electricity sales contracts

 

 

25

 

 

 

6

 

Natural gas and other fuel purchase contracts

 

 

6

 

 

 

30

 

Financial power contracts

 

 

64

 

 

 

56

 

Basis swaps – purchases

 

 

(8

)

 

 

3

 

Basis swaps – sales

 

 

5

 

 

 

(2

)

Total

 

$

82

 

 

$

91

 

 

The effect of trading derivatives associated with Renewables and Gas activities for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, consisted of:

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

 

March 31,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

(Millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wholesale electricity purchase contracts

 

$

(3

)

 

$

 

Wholesale electricity sales contracts

 

 

7

 

 

 

(1

)

Financial power contracts

 

 

(3

)

 

 

1

 

Financial and natural gas contracts

 

 

4

 

 

 

(30

)

Total Gain (Loss)

 

$

5

 

 

$

(30

)

 

The effect of non-trading derivatives associated with Renewables and Gas activities for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, consisted of:

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

 

March 31,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

(Millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wholesale electricity purchase contracts

 

$

(6

)

 

$

(3

)

Wholesale electricity sales contracts

 

 

11

 

 

 

6

 

Financial power contracts

 

 

16

 

 

 

1

 

Financial and natural gas contracts

 

 

(4

)

 

 

(9

)

Total Gain (Loss)

 

$

17

 

 

$

(5

)

 

 

Such gains and losses are included in “Operating revenues” and in “Purchased power, natural gas and fuel used” operating expenses in the condensed consolidated statements of income, depending upon the nature of the transaction.

24


 

The offsetting of derivatives, location in the condensed consolidated balance sheet and amounts of derivatives associated with Renewables and Gas activities as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively, consisted of:

 

As of March 31, 2017

 

Current

Assets

 

 

Noncurrent

Assets

 

 

Current

Liabilities

 

 

Noncurrent

Liabilities

 

(Millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Not designated as hedging instruments

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Derivative assets

 

$

79

 

 

$

117

 

 

$

100

 

 

$

6

 

Derivative liabilities

 

 

(30

)

 

 

(7

)

 

 

(115

)

 

 

(10

)

 

 

 

49

 

 

 

110

 

 

 

(15

)

 

 

(4

)

Designated as hedging instruments

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Derivative assets

 

 

16

 

 

 

8

 

 

 

 

 

 

1

 

Derivative liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

(2

)

 

 

(15

)

 

 

(1

)

 

 

 

16

 

 

 

6

 

 

 

(15

)

 

 

 

Total derivatives before offset of cash collateral

 

 

65

 

 

 

116

 

 

 

(30

)

 

 

(4

)

Cash collateral receivable (payable)

 

 

(19

)

 

 

(49

)

 

 

2

 

 

 

1

 

Total derivatives as presented in the balance sheet

 

$

46

 

 

$

67

 

 

$

(28

)

 

$

(3

)

 

As of December 31, 2016

 

Current

Assets

 

 

Noncurrent

Assets

 

 

Current

Liabilities

 

 

Noncurrent

Liabilities

 

(Millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Not designated as hedging instruments

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Derivative assets

 

$

198

 

 

$

108

 

 

$

78

 

 

$

7

 

Derivative liabilities

 

 

(118

)

 

 

(4

)

 

 

(132

)

 

 

(16

)

 

 

 

80

 

 

 

104

 

 

 

(54

)

 

 

(9

)

Designated as hedging instruments

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Derivative assets

 

 

25

 

 

 

4

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Derivative liabilities

 

 

(1

)

 

 

 

 

 

(39

)

 

 

(21

)

 

 

 

24

 

 

 

4

 

 

 

(39

)

 

 

(21

)

Total derivatives before offset of cash collateral

 

 

104

 

 

 

108

 

 

 

(93

)

 

 

(30

)

Cash collateral receivable (payable)

 

 

(17

)

 

 

(46

)

 

 

41

 

 

 

24

 

Total derivatives as presented in the balance sheet

 

$

87

 

 

$

62

 

 

$

(52

)

 

$

(6

)

 

The effect of derivatives in cash flow hedging relationships on OCI and income for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, consisted of:

 

 

Three Months Ended March 31,

 

Gain Recognized

in OCI on Derivatives

 

 

Location of

Gain Reclassified

from Accumulated

OCI into Income

 

Loss (Gain)

Reclassified

from Accumulated

OCI into Income

 

(Millions)

 

Effective Portion (a)

 

 

Effective Portion (a)

 

2017

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Commodity contracts

 

$

4

 

 

Revenues

 

$

33

 

Total

 

$

4

 

 

 

 

$

33

 

2016

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Commodity contracts

 

$

3

 

 

Revenues

 

$

(46

)

Total

 

$

3

 

 

 

 

$

(46

)

 

 

(a)

Changes in OCI are reported on a pre-tax basis.

Amounts are reclassified from accumulated OCI into income in the period during which the transaction being hedged affects earnings or when it becomes probable that a forecasted transaction being hedged would not occur. Notwithstanding future changes in prices, approximately $0.5 million of gain included in accumulated OCI at March 31, 2017, is expected to be reclassified into earnings within the next 12 months. During the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, we recorded a net loss of $0.3 million and $4.4 million, respectively, in earnings as a result of ineffectiveness from cash flow hedges. The net loss in accumulated OCI related to a discontinued cash flow hedge is $0.5 million as of March 31, 2017. This amount will be amortized in 2018.

25


 

(c) Counterparty credit risk management

NYSEG and RG&E face risks related to counterparty performance on hedging contracts due to counterparty credit default. We have developed a matrix of unsecured credit thresholds that are dependent on the counterparty’s or the counterparty’s guarantor’s applicable credit rating, normally Moody’s or Standard & Poor’s. When our exposure to risk for a counterparty exceeds the unsecured credit threshold, the counterparty is required to post additional collateral or we will no longer transact with the counterparty until the exposure drops below the unsecured credit threshold.

The wholesale power supply agreements of UI contain default provisions that include required performance assurance, including certain collateral obligations, in the event that UI’s credit rating on senior debt were to fall below investment grade. If such an event had occurred as of March 31, 2017, UI would have had to post an aggregate of approximately $11 million in collateral.

We have various master netting arrangements in the form of multiple contracts with various single counterparties that are subject to contractual agreements that provide for the net settlement of all contracts through a single payment. Those arrangements reduce our exposure to a counterparty in the event of default on or termination of any single contract. For financial statement presentation purposes, we offset fair value amounts recognized for derivative instruments and fair value amounts recognized for the right to reclaim or the obligation to return cash collateral arising from derivative instruments executed with the same counterparty under a master netting arrangement. The amounts of cash collateral under master netting arrangements that have not been offset against net derivative positions were $23 million and $20 million as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively. Derivative instruments settlements and collateral payments are included in “Other assets/liabilities” of operating activities in the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows.

Certain of our derivative instruments contain provisions that require us to maintain an investment grade credit rating on our debt from each of the major credit rating agencies. If our debt were to fall below investment grade, we would be in violation of those provisions and the counterparties to the derivative instruments could request immediate payment or demand immediate and ongoing full overnight collateralization on derivative instruments in net liability positions. The aggregate fair value of all derivative instruments with credit risk related contingent features that are in a liability position as of March 31, 2017 is $20.1 million, for which we have posted collateral.

 

 

Note 7. Contingencies

We are party to various legal disputes arising as part of our normal business activities. We assess our exposure to these matters and record estimated loss contingencies when a loss is likely and can be reasonably estimated.

Transmission - ROE Complaint – CMP and UI

On September 30, 2011, the Massachusetts Attorney General, Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities, Connecticut Public Utilities Regulatory Authority, New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission, Rhode Island Division of Public Utilities and Carriers, Vermont Department of Public Service, numerous New England consumer advocate agencies and transmission tariff customers collectively filed a complaint (Complaint I) with the FERC pursuant to sections 206 and 306 of the Federal Power Act. The filing parties sought an order from the FERC reducing the 11.14% base return on equity used in calculating formula rates for transmission service under the ISO-New England Open Access Transmission Tariff (OATT) to 9.2%. CMP and UI are New England Transmission Owners (NETOs) with assets and service rates that are governed by the OATT and therefore are affected by any FERC order resulting from the filed complaint.

On June 19, 2014, the FERC issued its decision in Complaint I, establishing an ROE methodology and setting an issue for a paper hearing.  On October 16, 2014, FERC issued its final decision in Complaint I setting the base ROE at 10.57% and a maximum total ROE of 11.74% (base plus incentive ROEs) for the October 2011 – December 2012 period as well as prospectively from October 16, 2014, and ordered the NETOs to file a refund report. On November 17, 2014, the NETOs filed the requested refund report.

On March 3, 2015, the FERC issued an order on requests for rehearing of its October 16, 2014 decision. The March order upheld the FERC’s June 19, 2014 decision and further clarified that the 11.74% ROE cap will be applied on a project specific basis and not on a transmission owner’s total average transmission return. In June 2015 the NETOs and complainants both filed an appeal in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia of the FERC’s final order. On April 14, 2017, the Court of Appeals (the Court) issued its decision.  The Court vacated FERC’s decision on Complaint I and remanded it to FERC. The Court found that FERC, as directed by statute, did not determine first that the existing ROE was unjust and unreasonable before determining a new ROE. The Court ruled that FERC must first determine that the then existing 11.14% base ROE was unjust and unreasonable before selecting the 10.57% as the new base ROE. The Court also found that FERC did not provide reasoned judgment as to why 10.57%, the point ROE at the midpoint of the upper end of the zone of reasonableness, is a just and reasonable ROE as FERC only explained in its order that the

26


 

midpoint of 9.39% was not just and reasonable and a higher base ROE was warranted. The parties or FERC could appea l the decision to the United States Supreme Court or FERC could provide additional justification and issue a decision on remand.  We cannot predict the outcome of an appeal or other action by FERC .

On December 26, 2012, a second ROE complaint (Complaint II) for a subsequent rate period was filed requesting the ROE be reduced to 8.7%. On June 19, 2014, FERC accepted Complaint II, established a 15-month refund effective date of December 27, 2012, and set the matter for hearing using the methodology established in Complaint I.

On July 31, 2014, a third ROE complaint (Complaint III) was filed for a subsequent rate period requesting the ROE be reduced to 8.84%. On November 24, 2014, FERC accepted the Complaint III, established a 15-month refund effective date of July 31, 2014, and set this matter consolidated with Complaint II for hearing in June 2015. Hearings were held in June 2015 on Complaints II and III before a FERC Administrative Law Judge, relating to the refund periods and going forward period. On July 29, 2015, post-hearing briefs were filed by parties and on August 26, 2015 reply briefs were filed by parties. On July 13, 2015, the NETOs filed a petition for review of FERC’s orders establishing hearing and consolidation procedures for Complaints II and III with the U.S. Court of Appeals. The FERC Administrative Law Judge issued an Initial Decision on March 22, 2016. The Initial Decision determined that: (1) for the 15-month refund period in Complaint II, the base ROE should be 9.59% and that the ROE Cap (base ROE plus incentive ROEs) should be 10.42% and (2) for the 15-month refund period in Complaint III and prospectively, the base ROE should be 10.90% and that the ROE Cap should be 12.19%. The Initial Decision is the Administrative Law Judge’s recommendation to the FERC Commissioners. The FERC is expected to make its final decision later in 2017, once FERC has enough commissioners to provide a quorum for decision-making.

CMP and UI reserved for refunds for Complaints I, II and III consistent with the FERC’s March 3, 2015 final decision in Complaint I. The CMP and UI total reserve associated with Complaints II and III is $21.9 million and $4.4 million, respectively, as of March 31, 2017, which has not changed since December 31, 2016, except for the accrual of carrying costs. If adopted as final, the impact of the initial decision would be an additional aggregate reserve for Complaints II and III of $17.1 million, which is based upon currently available information for these proceedings. We cannot predict the outcome of the Complaint II and III proceedings.

On April 29, 2016, a fourth ROE complaint (Complaint IV) was filed for a rate period subsequent to prior complaints requesting the base ROE be 8.61% and ROE Cap be 11.24%.  The NETOs filed a response to the Complaint IV on June 3, 2016. On September 20, 2016, FERC accepted the Complaint IV, established a 15-month refund effective date of April 29, 2016, and set the matter for hearing and settlement judge procedures. On February 1, 2017, the complainants filed their initial testimony recommending a base ROE of 8.59%. On March 23, 2017, the NETOs filed their answering testimony supporting the continuation of the base ROE from Complaint I of 10.57%. A range of possible outcomes is not able to be determined at this time due to the preliminary state of this matter. We cannot predict the outcome of the Complaint IV proceeding. Hearings are being held later this year with an expected Initial Decision from the Administrative Law Judge in November 2017.

Yankee Nuclear Spent Fuel Disposal Claim

CMP has an ownership interest in Maine Yankee Atomic Power Company, Connecticut Yankee Atomic Power Company, and Yankee Atomic Electric Company (the Yankee Companies), three New England single-unit decommissioned nuclear reactor sites, and UI has an ownership interest in Connecticut Yankee Atomic Power Company. Every six years, pursuant to the statute of limitations, the Yankee Companies file a lawsuit to recover damages from the Department of Energy (DOE or Government) for breach of the Nuclear Spent Fuel Disposal Contract to remove Spent Nuclear Fuel (SNF) and Greater than Class C Waste (GTCC) as required by contract and the Nuclear Waste Policy Act beginning in 1998. The damages are the incremental costs for the Government’s failure to take the spent nuclear fuel.  

In 2012, the U.S. Court of Appeals issued a favorable decision in the Yankee Companies’ claim for the first six year period (Phase I).  Total damages awarded to the Yankee Companies were nearly $160 million.  The Yankee Companies won on all appellate points in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit’s unanimous decision. The Federal Appeals Court affirmed the September 2010 U.S. Court of Federal Claims award of $39.7 million to Connecticut Yankee Atomic Power Company; affirmed the Court of Federal Claims award of $81.7 million to Maine Yankee Atomic Power Company; and increased Yankee Atomic Electric Company’s damages award from $21.4 million to $38.3 million. The Phase I damage award became final on December 4, 2012. The Yankee Companies received payment from DOE in January 2013. CMP’s share of the award was approximately $36.5 million which was credited back to customers. UI’s share of the award was $3.8 million which was credited back to customers.

In November 2013 the U.S. Court of Claims issued its decision in the Phase II case (the second six-year period). The court’s decision awarded the Yankee Companies a combined $235.4 million (Connecticut Yankee $126.3 million, Maine Yankee $37.7 million, and Yankee Atomic $73.3 million). The Phase II period covers January 1, 2002, through December 31, 2008, for Connecticut Yankee and Yankee Atomic, and January 1, 2003, through December 31, 2008, for Maine Yankee. Maine Yankee’s damage award was lower

27


 

because it recovered a larger amount in the Phase I case ($82 million) and its decommissioning was both less expensive and completed sooner than the other Yankee Companies.  The damage awards flow through the Yankee Companies to shareholders (including CMP and UI) to reduce retail customer charges.   In January 2014 the government informed the Yankee Companies that it would not appeal the Trial Court decision, as a result the Yankee Companies received full payment in April 2014 . CMP’s share of the award was approximate ly $28.2 million which was credited back to customers. UI received approximately $12 million of such award which was applied, in part, against its remaining storm regulatory asset balance. The remaining regulatory liability balance was applied to UI’s gene ration service charge “working capital allowance” and was returned to customers through the non-by-passable federally mandated congestion charge.

In August 2013, the Yankee Companies filed a third round of claims against the Government seeking damages for the years 2009-2014 (Phase III). The Phase III trial was completed in July 2015 and the court issued its decision on March 25, 2016, awarding the Yankee Companies a combined $76.8 million (Connecticut Yankee $32.6 million, Maine Yankee $24.6 million and Yankee Atomic $19.6 million). The damage awards will potentially flow through the Yankee Companies to shareholders, including CMP and UI, upon FERC approval, and will reduce retail customer charges or otherwise as specified by law. CMP and UI will receive their proportionate share of the awards that flow through based on percentage ownership. On July 18, 2016, the notice of appeal period expired and the Phase III trial award became final. On October 14, 2016, the Yankee Companies received the Government's payment of the damage award of a combined $41.6 million (Connecticut Yankee $18.4 million, Maine Yankee $3.6 million and Yankee Atomic $19.6 million). In December 2016 CMP and UI received their proportionate share of $4.2 million of the Phase III damage awards, based on percentage ownership, and CMP received an additional $21.5 million for SNF trust refund relating to excess funds of Maine Yankee unrelated to Phase III.  All amounts will flow through to customers.

NYPSC Staff Review of Earnings Sharing Calculations and Other Regulatory Deferrals

In December 2012, the NYPSC Staff (Staff) informed NYSEG and RG&E that the Staff had conducted an audit of the companies’ annual compliance filings (ACF) for 2009 through August 31, 2010, and the first rate year of the current rate plan, September 1, 2010 through August 31, 2011. The Staff’s preliminary findings indicated adjustments to deferred balances primarily associated with storm costs and the treatment of certain incentive compensation costs for purposes of the 2011 ACF. The Staff’s findings included approximately $9.8 million of adjustments to deferral balances and customer earnings sharing accruals. NYSEG and RG&E reviewed the Staff’s adjustments and work papers and responded in early 2013. NYSEG and RG&E disagreed with certain Staff conclusions and as a result recorded a $3.4 million reserve in December 2012 in anticipation of settling the issues identified by the Staff. In the Proposal approved by the NYPSC (see Note 4) the parties agreed that in full and final resolution of all issues identified for all years through 2012, and in full and final resolution of storm-related deferrals through 2014, the companies will add $2.4 million to the customer share of earnings sharing. The Staff indicated in December 2016 that it had completed its review of 2013 and 2014 ACFs and no additional issues were identified.

New York State Department of Public Service Investigation of the Preparation for and Response to the March 2017 Windstorm

At the direction of Governor Andrew Cuomo, on March 11, 2017 the New York State Department of Public Service (the “Department”) commenced an investigation of NYSEG’s and RG&E’s preparation for and response to the March 2017 windstorm, which affected more than 219,000 customers. The Department investigation will include a comprehensive review of NYSEG’s and RG&E’s preparation for and response to the windstorm, including the all aspects of the companies’ filed and approved emergency plan. The Department held public hearings on April 12 and 13, 2017. We cannot predict the outcome of this investigation.

California Energy Crisis Litigation

Two California agencies brought a complaint in 2001 against a long-term power purchase agreement entered into by Renewables, as seller, to the California Department of Water Resources, as purchaser, alleging that the terms and conditions of the power purchase agreement were unjust and unreasonable. FERC dismissed Renewables from the proceedings; however, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals reversed FERC's dismissal of Renewables.

Joining with two other parties, Renewables filed a petition for certiorari in the United States Supreme Court on May 3, 2007. In an order entered on June 27, 2008, the Supreme Court granted Renewables’ petition for certiorari, vacated the appellate court's judgment, and remanded the case to the appellate court for further consideration in light of the Supreme Court’s decision in a similar case. In light of the Supreme Court's order, on December 4, 2008, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals vacated its prior opinion and remanded the complaint proceedings to the FERC for further proceedings consistent with the Supreme Court's rulings. In 2014 FERC assigned an administrative law judge to conduct evidentiary hearings. Following discovery, the FERC Trial Staff recommended that the complaint against Renewables be dismissed .

28


 

A hearing was held before an administrative law judge of FERC in November and early December 2015. A preliminary proposed ruling by the administrative law judge was issued on Apri l 12, 2016.  The proposed ruling found no evidence that Renewables had engaged in any unlawful market contract that would justify finding the Renewables power purchase agreements unjust and unreasonable. However, the proposed ruling did conclude that price of the power purchase agreements imposed an excessive burden on customers in the amount of $259 million.  Renewables position, as presented at hearings and agreed by FERC Trial Staff, is that Renewables entered into bilateral power purchase contracts appro priately and complied with all applicable legal standards and requirements. The parties have submitted to FERC briefs on exceptions to the administrative law judge’s proposed ruling. There is no specific timetable to FERC’s ruling. We cannot predict the ou tcome of this proceeding.

Guarantee Commitments to Third Parties

As of March 31, 2017, we had approximately $2.7 billion of standby letters of credit, surety bonds, guarantees and indemnifications outstanding. These instruments provide financial assurance to the business and trading partners of AVANGRID and its subsidiaries in their normal course of business.  The instruments only represent liabilities if AVANGRID or its subsidiaries fail to deliver on contractual obligations. We therefore believe it is unlikely that any material liabilities associated with these instruments will be incurred and, accordingly, as of March 31, 2017, neither we nor our subsidiaries have any liabilities recorded for these instruments.

 

Note 8. Environmental Liabilities

Environmental laws, regulations and compliance programs may occasionally require changes in our operations and facilities and may increase the cost of electric and natural gas service. We do not provide for accruals of legal costs expected to be incurred in connection with loss contingencies.

Waste sites

The Environmental Protection Agency and various state environmental agencies, as appropriate, have notified us that we are among the potentially responsible parties that may be liable for costs incurred to remediate certain hazardous substances at twenty-five waste sites, which do not include sites where gas was manufactured in the past. Fifteen of the twenty-five sites are included in the New York State Registry of Inactive Hazardous Waste Disposal Sites; six sites are included in Maine’s Uncontrolled Sites Program and one site is included on the Massachusetts Non- Priority Confirmed Disposal Site list. The remaining sites are not included in any registry list. Finally, nine of the twenty-five sites are also included on the National Priorities list. Any liability may be joint and severable for certain sites.

We have recorded an estimated liability of $6 million related to ten of the twenty-five sites. We have paid remediation costs related to the remaining fifteen sites and do not expect to incur additional liabilities. Additionally, we have recorded an estimated liability of $8 million related to another ten sites where we believe it is probable that we will incur remediation costs and or monitoring costs, although we have not been notified that we are among the potentially responsible parties or that we are regulated under State Resource Conservation and Recovery Act programs. We recorded a corresponding regulatory asset because we expect to recover these costs in rates. It is possible the ultimate cost to remediate these sites may be significantly more than the accrued amount. Our estimate for costs to remediate these sites ranges from $12 million to $22 million as of March 31, 2017. Factors affecting the estimated remediation amount include the remedial action plan selected, the extent of site contamination, and the portion of remediation attributed to us.

Manufactured Gas Plants

We have a program to investigate and perform necessary remediation at our fifty-three sites where gas was manufactured in the past (Manufactured Gas Plants, or MGPs). Eight sites are included in the New York State Registry; eleven sites are included in the New York Voluntary Cleanup Program; three sites are part of Maine’s Voluntary Response Action Program and with two of such sites being part of Maine’s Uncontrolled Sites Program. The remaining sites are not included in any registry list. We have entered into consent orders with various environmental agencies to investigate and where necessary remediate forty-nine of the fifty-three sites.

Our estimate for all costs related to investigation and remediation of the fifty-three sites ranges from $221 million to $465 million as of March 31, 2017. Our estimate could change materially based on facts and circumstances derived from site investigations, changes in required remedial actions, changes in technology relating to remedial alternatives, and changes to current laws and regulations.

As of both March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the liability associated with MGP sites in Connecticut, the remediation costs of which could be significant and will be subject to a review by PURA as to whether these costs are recoverable in rates, was $97 million.

29


 

The liability to investigate and perform remediation at the known inactive MGP sites was $384 million and $388 million as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively. We recorded a corresponding regulatory asset, net of insurance recoveries and the amount collected from FirstEnergy, as described be low, because we expect to recover the net costs in rates. Our environmental liability accruals are recorded on an undiscounted basis and are expected to be paid through the year 2053.

Certain other Connecticut and Massachusetts regulated gas companies own or have previously owned properties where MGPs had historically operated. MGP operations have led to contamination of soil and groundwater with petroleum hydrocarbons, benzene and metals, among other things, at these properties, the regulation and cleanup of which is regulated by the federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act as well as other federal and state statutes and regulations. Each of the companies has or had an ownership interest in one or more such properties contaminated as a result of MGP-related activities. Under the existing regulations, the cleanup of such sites requires state and at times, federal, regulators’ involvement and approval before cleanup can commence. In certain cases, such contamination has been evaluated, characterized and remediated. In other cases, the sites have been evaluated and characterized, but not yet remediated. Finally, at some of these sites, the scope of the contamination has not yet been fully characterized; no liability was recorded in respect of these sites as of March 31, 2017 and no amount of loss, if any, can be reasonably estimated at this time. In the past, the companies have received approval for the recovery of MGP-related remediation expenses from customers through rates and will seek recovery in rates for ongoing MGP-related remediation expenses for all of their MGP sites.

FirstEnergy

NYSEG sued FirstEnergy under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act to recover environmental cleanup costs at sixteen former manufactured gas sites, which are included in the discussion above. In July 2011, the District Court issued a decision and order in NYSEG’s favor. Based on past and future clean-up costs at the sixteen sites in dispute, FirstEnergy would be required to pay NYSEG approximately $60 million if the decision were upheld on appeal. On September 9, 2011, FirstEnergy paid NYSEG $30 million, representing their share of past costs of $27 million and pre-judgment interest of $3 million.

FirstEnergy appealed the decision to the Second Circuit Court of Appeals. On September 11, 2014, the Second Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed the District Court’s decision in NYSEG’s favor, but modified the decision for nine sites, reducing NYSEG’s damages for incurred costs from $27 million to $22 million, excluding interest, and reducing FirstEnergy’s allocable share of future costs at these sites. NYSEG refunded FirstEnergy the excess $5 million in November 2014.

FirstEnergy remains liable for a substantial share of clean up expenses at nine MPG sites. In January 2015, NYSEG sent FirstEnergy a demand for $16 million representing FirstEnergy’s share of clean-up expenses incurred by NYSEG at the nine sites from January 2010 to November 2014 while the District Court appeal was pending. Nearly all of this amount has been paid by FirstEnergy. FirstEnergy would also be liable for a share of post 2014 costs, which, based on current projections, would be $26 million. This amount is being treated as a contingent asset and has not been recorded as either a receivable or a decrease to the environmental provision. Any recovery will be flowed through to NYSEG ratepayers.

Century Indemnity and OneBeacon

On August 14, 2013, NYSEG filed suit in federal court against two excess insurers, Century Indemnity and OneBeacon, who provided excess liability coverage to NYSEG. NYSEG seeks payment for clean-up costs associated with contamination at 22 former manufactured gas plants. Based on estimated clean-up costs of $282 million, the carriers’ allocable share could equal or exceed approximately $89 million, excluding pre-judgment interest, although this amount may change substantially depending upon the determination of various factual matters and legal issues during the case.

Century Indemnity and One Beacon have answered admitting issuance of the excess policies, but contesting coverage and providing documentation proving they received notice of the claims in the 1990s. On March 31, 2017, the District Court granted motions filed by Century Indemnity and One Beacon dismissing all of NYSEG’s claims against both defendants on the grounds of late notice.  NYSEG filed a motion with the District Court on April 14, 2017 seeking reconsideration of the Court’s decision and is researching grounds for further appeal if the reconsideration motion is denied. We cannot predict the outcome of this matter; however, any recovery will be flowed through to NYSEG ratepayers.

English Station

In January 2012, Evergreen Power, LLC (Evergreen Power) and Asnat Realty LLC (Asnat), then and current owners of a former generation site on the Mill River in New Haven (the English Station site) that UI sold to Quinnipiac Energy in 2000, filed a lawsuit in federal district court in Connecticut against UI seeking, among other things: (i) an order directing UI to reimburse the plaintiffs for costs they have incurred and will incur for the testing, investigation and remediation of hazardous substances at the English Station

30


 

site and (ii) an order directing UI to investigate and remediate the site. This proceed ing had been stayed in 2014 pending resolutions of other proceedings before DEEP concerning the English Station site.  In December 2016, the court administratively closed the file without prejudice to reopen upon the filing of a motion to reopen by any par ty.  In December 2013, Evergreen and Asnat filed a subsequent lawsuit in Connecticut state court seeking among other things: (i) remediation of the property; (ii) reimbursement of remediation costs; (iii) termination of UI’s easement rights; (iv) reimburse ment for costs associated with securing the property; and (v) punitive damages This lawsuit had been stayed in May 2014 pending mediation.  Due to lack of activity in the case, the court terminated the stay and scheduled a status conference on or before Au gust 1, 2017.  

On April 8, 2013, DEEP issued an administrative order addressed to UI, Evergreen Power, Asnat and others, ordering the parties to take certain actions related to investigating and remediating the English Station site. Mediation of the matter began in the fourth quarter of 2013 and concluded unsuccessfully in April 2015. This proceeding was stayed while DEEP and UI continue to work through the remediation process pursuant to the consent order described below. A status report was filed with the court in December 2016 and the next status report is due in May 2017.

On August 4, 2016, DEEP issued the consent order that, subject to its terms and conditions, requires UI to investigate and remediate certain environmental conditions within the perimeter of the English Station site. Under the consent order, to the extent that the cost of this investigation and remediation is less than $30 million, UI will remit to the State of Connecticut the difference between such cost and $30 million to be used for a public purpose as determined in the discretion of the Governor of the State of Connecticut, the Attorney General of the State of Connecticut, and the Commissioner of DEEP. UI is obligated to comply with the terms of the consent order even if the cost of such compliance exceeds $30 million. Under the terms of the consent order, the State will discuss options with UI on recovering or funding any cost above $30 million such as through public funding or recovery from third parties; however, it is not bound to agree to or support any means of recovery or funding.      

In connection with the consent order, on August 4, 2016, DEEP also issued a Consent Order to Evergreen Power, Asnat, and certain related parties that provides UI access to investigate and remediate the English Station site consistent with the consent order. UI has initiated its process to investigate and remediate the environmental conditions within the perimeter of the English Station site pursuant to the consent order.

As of December 31, 2016, we reserved $30 million for this case. As of March 31, 2017, the reserve amount remained unchanged. We cannot predict the outcome of this matter.

 

Note 9. Post-retirement and Similar Obligations

We made no pension contributions for the three months ended March 31, 2017. We expect to make $33 million of contributions for the remainder of 2017.

The components of net periodic benefit cost for pension benefits for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, consisted of:

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

 

March 31,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

(Millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Service cost

 

$

11

 

 

$

11

 

Interest cost

 

 

35

 

 

 

35

 

Expected return on plan assets

 

 

(50

)

 

 

(51

)

Amortization of:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Prior service costs

 

 

 

 

 

 

Actuarial loss

 

 

32

 

 

 

38

 

Net Periodic Benefit Cost

 

$

28

 

 

$

33

 

 

31


 

The components of net periodic benefit cost for postretirement benefits for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, consisted of:

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

 

March 31,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

(Millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Service cost

 

$

1

 

 

$

1

 

Interest cost

 

 

5

 

 

 

6

 

Expected return on plan assets

 

 

(2

)

 

 

(3

)

Amortization of:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Prior service costs

 

 

(2

)

 

 

(2

)

Actuarial loss

 

 

1

 

 

 

2

 

Net Periodic Benefit Cost

 

$

3

 

 

$

4

 

 

 

Note 10. Equity

As of March 31, 2017, our share capital consisted of 500,000,000 shares of common stock authorized, 309,670,932 shares issued and 309,069,291 shares outstanding, 81.6% of which is owned by Iberdrola, each having a par value of $0.01, for a total value of common stock capital of $3 million and additional paid in capital of $13,653 million. As of December 31, 2016, our share capital consisted of 500,000,000 shares of common stock authorized, 309,600,439 shares issued and 308,993,149 shares outstanding, 81.5% of which was owned by Iberdrola, each having a par value of $0.01, for a total value of common stock capital of $3 million and additional paid in capital of $13,653 million. We had 485,810 and 491,459 shares of common stock held in trust and no convertible preferred shares outstanding as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively. During the three months ended March 31, 2017, we issued 70,493 shares of common stock and released 5,649 shares of common stock held in trust each having a par value of $0.01. During the three months ended March 31, 2016, we issued 97,479 shares of common stock and released 132,800 shares of common stock held in trust each having a par value of $0.01.

On April 28, 2016, we entered into a repurchase agreement with J.P. Morgan Securities, LLC. (JPM), pursuant to which JPM will, from time to time, acquire, on behalf of AVANGRID, shares of common stock of AVANGRID. The purpose of the stock repurchase program is to allow AVANGRID to maintain the relative ownership percentage by Iberdrola at 81.5%. The stock repurchase program may be suspended or discontinued at any time upon notice. As of March 31, 2017, we have 115,831 shares of common stock of AVANGRID, which were repurchased during 2016 in the open market. The total cost of repurchase, including commissions, was $5 million.

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss

Accumulated OCI for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, consisted of:

 

 

 

As of December 31,

 

 

Three Months Ended  March 31,

 

 

As of March 31,

 

 

As of December 31,

 

 

Three Months Ended  March 31,

 

 

As of March 31,

 

 

 

2016

 

 

2017

 

 

2017

 

 

2015

 

 

2016

 

 

2016

 

(Millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gain on revaluation of defined benefit plans,

   net of income tax expense of $2.8 for 2016

 

$

(14

)

 

$

 

 

$

(14

)

 

$

(21

)

 

$

4

 

 

$

(17

)

Loss for nonqualified pension plans

 

 

(7

)

 

 

 

 

 

(7

)

 

 

(8

)

 

 

 

 

 

(8

)

Unrealized gain during period on derivatives

   qualifying as cash flow hedges, net of income tax

   expense of $1.3 for 2017 and $1.2 for 2016

 

 

5

 

 

 

2

 

 

 

7

 

 

 

31

 

 

 

2

 

 

 

33

 

Reclassification to net income of losses (gains) on

   cash flow hedges, net of income tax expense

   (benefit) of $13.6 for 2017 and $(16.6) for 2016(a)

 

 

(70

)

 

 

23

 

 

 

(47

)

 

 

(54

)

 

 

(26

)

 

 

(80

)

Gain (loss) on derivatives qualifying as cash flow

   hedges

 

 

(65

)

 

 

25

 

 

 

(40

)

 

 

(23

)

 

 

(24

)

 

 

(47

)

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss

 

$

(86

)

 

$

25

 

 

$

(61

)

 

$

(52

)

 

$

(20

)

 

$

(72

)

 

(a)

Reclassification is reflected in the operating expenses line item in the condensed consolidated statements of income.

 

 

32


 

Note 11. Earnings Per Share

Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing net income attributable to AVANGRID by the weighted-average number of shares of our common stock outstanding. During the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, while we did have securities that were dilutive, these securities did not result in a change in our earnings per share calculation for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016.

The calculations of basic and diluted earnings per share attributable to AVANGRID, for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, consisted of:

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

 

March 31,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

(Millions, except for number of shares and per share data)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Numerator:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income attributable to AVANGRID

 

$

239

 

 

$

212

 

Denominator:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted average number of shares outstanding - basic

 

 

309,508,889

 

 

 

309,538,215

 

Weighted average number of shares outstanding - diluted

 

 

309,837,442

 

 

 

309,808,006

 

Earnings per share attributable to AVANGRID

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Earnings Per Common Share, Basic

 

$

0.77

 

 

$

0.69

 

Earnings Per Common Share, Diluted

 

$

0.77

 

 

$

0.69

 

 

 

Note 12. Segment Information

Our segment reporting structure uses our management reporting structure as its foundation to reflect how AVANGRID manages the business internally and is organized by type of business. We report our financial performance based on the following three reportable segments:

Networks: including all the energy transmission and distribution activities, and any other regulated activity originating in New York and Maine, and regulated electric distribution, electric transmission and gas distribution activities originating in Connecticut and Massachusetts. The Networks reportable segment includes eight rate regulated operating segments. These operating segments generally offer the same services distributed in similar fashions, have the same types of customers, have similar long-term economic characteristics and are subject to similar regulatory requirements, allowing these operations to be aggregated into one reportable segment.

Renewables: activities relating to renewable energy, mainly wind energy generation and trading related with such activities.

Gas: including gas trading and storage businesses carried on by the AVANGRID Group.

Products and services are sold between reportable segments and affiliate companies at cost. The chief operating decision maker evaluates segment performance based on segment adjusted EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization) defined as net income adding back income tax expense, depreciation and amortization and interest expense net of capitalization, and then subtracting other income and (expense) and earnings from equity method investments per segment. Segment income, expense, and assets presented in the accompanying tables include all intercompany transactions that are eliminated in the condensed consolidated financial statements.

33


 

 

Segment information as of and for the three months ended March 31, 2017, consisted of:

Three Months Ended March 31, 2017

 

Networks

 

 

Renewables

 

 

Gas

 

 

Other (a)

 

 

AVANGRID

Consolidated

 

(Millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenue - external

 

$

1,460

 

 

$

285

 

 

$

14

 

 

$

(1

)

 

$

1,758

 

Revenue - intersegment

 

 

(1

)

 

 

2

 

 

 

11

 

 

 

(12

)

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

 

113

 

 

 

78

 

 

 

6

 

 

 

 

 

 

197

 

Operating income (loss)

 

 

336

 

 

 

56

 

 

 

7

 

 

 

(1

)

 

 

398

 

Adjusted EBITDA

 

 

449

 

 

 

133

 

 

 

14

 

 

 

(1

)

 

 

595

 

Earnings (losses) from equity method investments

 

 

4

 

 

 

(2

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2

 

Capital expenditures

 

$

267

 

 

$

257

 

 

$

1

 

 

$

 

 

$

525

 

As of March 31, 2017

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Property, plant and equipment

 

 

13,168

 

 

 

8,133

 

 

 

496

 

 

 

 

 

 

21,797

 

Equity method investments

 

 

149

 

 

 

235

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

384

 

Total assets

 

$

20,998

 

 

$

9,996

 

 

$

1,041

 

 

$

(639

)

 

$

31,396

 

 

(a)

Does not represent a segment. It mainly includes Corporate and intersegment eliminations.

Included in revenue-external for the three months ended March 31, 2017, are: $921 million from regulated electric operations, $537 million from regulated gas operations and $2 million amounts from other operations of Networks; $285 million from renewable energy generation of Renewables; $4 million from gas storage services and $10 million from gas trading operations of Gas.

Segment information for the three months ended March 31, 2016, consisted of:

 

Three Months Ended March 31, 2016

 

Networks

 

 

Renewables

 

 

Gas

 

 

Other (a)

 

 

AVANGRID

Consolidated

 

(Millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenue - external

 

$

1,390

 

 

$

276

 

 

$

3

 

 

$

1

 

 

$

1,670

 

Revenue - intersegment

 

 

 

 

 

2

 

 

 

9

 

 

 

(11

)

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

 

118

 

 

 

80

 

 

 

7

 

 

 

 

 

 

205

 

Operating income (loss)

 

 

312

 

 

 

49

 

 

 

(10

)

 

 

(2

)

 

 

349

 

Adjusted EBITDA

 

 

430

 

 

 

129

 

 

 

(3

)

 

 

(2

)

 

 

554

 

Earnings (losses) from equity method investments

 

 

3

 

 

 

(1

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2

 

Capital expenditures

 

$

206

 

 

$

70

 

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

$

276

 

As of December 31, 2016

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Property, plant and equipment

 

 

13,032

 

 

 

8,015

 

 

 

501

 

 

 

 

 

 

21,548

 

Equity method investments

 

 

151

 

 

 

236

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

387

 

Total assets

 

$

20,753

 

 

$

9,884

 

 

$

1,124

 

 

$

(452

)

 

$

31,309

 

 

(a)

Does not represent a segment. It mainly includes Corporate and intersegment eliminations.

Included in revenue-external for the three months ended March 31, 2016, are: $913 million from regulated electric operations, $477 million from regulated gas operations and no amounts from other operations of Networks; $276 million from renewable energy generation of Renewables; $7 million from gas storage services and $(4) million from gas trading operations of Gas.

34


 

Reconciliation of consolidated Adjusted EBITDA to the AVANGRID consolidated Net Income for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, is as follows:

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

 

March 31,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

(Millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA

 

$

595

 

 

$

554

 

Less:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

 

197

 

 

 

205

 

Interest expense, net of capitalization

 

 

71

 

 

 

84

 

Income tax expense

 

 

103

 

 

 

104

 

Add:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other income

 

 

13

 

 

 

49

 

Earnings from equity method investments

 

 

2

 

 

 

2

 

Consolidated Net Income

 

$

239

 

 

$

212

 

 

 

Note 13. Related Party Transactions

We engage in related party transactions that are generally billed at cost and in accordance with applicable state and federal commission regulations.

Related party transactions for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, consisted of:

 

Three Months Ended March 31,

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

(Millions)

 

Sales To

 

 

Purchases

From

 

 

Sales To

 

 

Purchases

From

 

Iberdrola Canada Energy Services, Ltd

 

$

 

 

$

(10

)

 

$

 

 

$

(5

)

Iberdrola Renovables Energía, S.L.

 

 

 

 

 

(2

)

 

 

 

 

 

(3

)

Iberdrola, S.A.

 

 

 

 

 

(9

)

 

 

 

 

 

(8

)

Other

 

 

16

 

 

 

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

 

 

 

In addition to the statements of income items above, we made purchases of turbines for wind farms from Siemens-Gamesa, in which our ultimate parent, Iberdrola, has an 8.1% ownership. The amounts capitalized for these transactions were $66 million and $269 million as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively. In addition, included in “Other Assets” are $62 million of safe harbor turbine payments we made to Siemens-Gamesa as of March 31, 2017.

Related party balances as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively, consisted of:

 

As of

 

March 31, 2017

 

 

December 31, 2016

 

(Millions)

 

Owed By

 

 

Owed To

 

 

Owed By

 

 

Owed To

 

Iberdrola Canada Energy Services, Ltd.

 

$

 

 

$

(20

)

 

$

 

 

$

(14

)

Siemens-Gamesa

 

 

 

 

 

(105

)

 

 

1

 

 

 

(181

)

Iberdrola, S.A.

 

 

 

 

 

(9

)

 

 

 

 

 

(30

)

Iberdrola Energy Projects, Inc.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Iberdrola Renovables Energía, S.L.

 

 

 

 

 

(2

)

 

 

2

 

 

 

 

Other

 

 

17

 

 

 

(1

)

 

 

22

 

 

 

(3

)

Transactions with Iberdrola, our majority shareholder, relate predominantly to the provision and allocation of corporate services and management fees. Also included within the Purchases From category are charges for credit support relating to guarantees Iberdrola has provided to third parties guaranteeing our performance. All costs that can be specifically allocated, to the extent possible, are charged directly to the company receiving such services. In situations when Iberdrola corporate services are provided to two or more companies of AVANGRID any costs remaining after direct charge are allocated using agreed upon cost allocation methods designed to allocate those costs. We believe that the allocation method used is reasonable.

Transactions with Iberdrola Canada Energy Services predominantly relate to the purchase of gas for ARHI’s gas-fired cogeneration facility in Klamath, Oregon.

There have been no guarantees provided or received for any related party receivables or payables. These balances are unsecured and are typically settled in cash. Interest is not charged on regular business transactions but is charged on outstanding loan balances. There have been no impairments or provisions made against any affiliated balances.

35


 

Networks holds an approximate 20% ownership interest in the r egulated New York TransCo, LLC (New York TransCo). Through New York TransCo, Networks has formed a partnership with Central Hudson Gas and Electric Corporation, Consolidated Edison, Inc., National Grid, plc and Orange and Rockland Utilities, Inc. to develo p a portfolio of interconnected transmission lines and substations to fulfill the objectives of the New York energy highway initiative, which is a proposal to install up to 3,200 MW of new electric generation and transmission capacity in order to deliver m ore power generated from upstate New York power plants to downstate New York. As of March 31, 2017 the amount receivable from New York TransCo was $11 million.

AVANGRID manages its overall liquidity position as part of the broader Iberdrola Group and is a party to a notional cash pooling agreement with Bank Mendes Gans, N.V. (BMG), along with certain subsidiaries of Iberdrola. Cash surpluses remaining after meeting the liquidity requirements of AVANGRID and its subsidiaries may be deposited at BMG. Deposits, or credit balances, serve as collateral against the debit balances of other parties to the notional cash pooling agreement. The BMG balance at both March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, was zero.

 

 

Note 14. Accounts Receivable

Accounts receivable include amounts due under deferred payment arrangements (DPA). A DPA allows the account balance to be paid in installments over an extended period of time, which generally exceeds one year, by negotiating mutually acceptable payment terms and not bearing interest. The utility company generally must continue to serve a customer who cannot pay an account balance in full if the customer (i) pays a reasonable portion of the balance; (ii) agrees to pay the balance in installments; and (iii) agrees to pay future bills within thirty days until the DPA is paid in full. Failure to make payments on a DPA results in the full amount of a receivable under a DPA being due. These accounts are part of the regular operating cycle and are classified as current.

We establish provisions for uncollectible accounts for DPAs by using both historical average loss percentages to project future losses and by establishing specific provisions for known credit issues. Amounts are written off when reasonable collection efforts have been exhausted. DPA receivable balances were $58 million and $54 million at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively. The allowance for doubtful accounts for DPAs at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, was $31 million and $30 million, respectively. Furthermore, the provision for bad debts associated with the DPAs for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 was $1 million and $(1) million, respectively.

 

 

Note 15. Income Tax Expense

The effective tax rate for the three months ended March 31, 2017, was 30.1%, which is lower than the 35% statutory federal income tax rate predominantly due to the recognition of production tax credits associated with wind production. Additionally, a $14 million increase in income tax expense is due to unfunded future income tax to reflect the change from a flow through to normalization method, which has been recorded as an increase to revenue, with an offsetting and equal increase to income tax expense. This increase was offset by other discrete tax adjustments during the period. The effective tax rate for the three months ended March 31, 2016, was 32.9%, which is lower than the 35% statutory federal income tax rate primarily due to the recognition of production tax credits associated with wind production.

 

Note 16. Stock-Based Compensation Expense

Pursuant to the 2016 Avangrid, Inc. Omnibus Incentive Plan 5,327 additional performance stock units (PSUs) were granted to certain officers and employees of AVANGRID in March 2017. The PSUs will vest upon achievement of certain performance- and market-based metrics related to the 2016 through 2019 plan and will be payable in three equal installments in 2020, 2021 and 2022. The fair value on the grant date was determined $31.80 per share.

The total stock-based compensation expense, which is included in operations and maintenance of the condensed consolidated statements of income, for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, was $1.3 million and $1.4 million, respectively.

The total liability relating to stock-based compensation, which is included in other non-current liabilities, was $9.6 million and $9.5 million as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively. Before 2016 the Company’s historical stock-based compensation expense and liabilities were based on shares of Iberdrola and not on shares of the Company. These Iberdrola shares-based awards were early terminated at the end of 2015, and the liability will be settled in two equal installments no later than June 30, 2017 and March 30, 2018.

 

Note 17. Tax Equity Financing Arrangements

The sale of a membership interest in the tax equity financing arrangements (TEFs) represents the sale of an equity interest in a structure that is considered in substance real estate. Under existing guidance for real estate financings, the membership interests in the TEFs we sold to the third-party investors are reflected as a financing obligation in the consolidated balance sheets. We continue to fully consolidate the TEFs’ assets and liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets and to report the results of the TEFs’ operations in the consolidated statements of income. The presentation reflects revenues and expenses from the TEFs’ operations on a fully consolidated basis. We consolidate the TEF’s based on being the primary beneficiary for these variable interest entities (VIEs). The

36


 

liabilities are increased for cash contrib uted by the third-party investors, interest accrued, and the federal income tax impact to the third-party investors of the allocation of taxable income. Interest is accrued on the balance using the effective interest method and the third-party investors’ t argeted rate of return. The balance accrued interest at an average rate of 5.3% and 5.4% as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively. The liabilities are reduced by cash distributions to the third-party investors, the allocation of production tax credits to the third-party investors, and the federal income tax impact to the third-party investors of the allocation of taxable losses. This treatment is expected to remain consistent over the terms of the TEFs.

The assets and liabilities of these VIEs totaled approximately $1,293 million and $218 million, respectively, at March 31, 2017. As of December 31, 2016, the assets and liabilities of VIEs totaled approximately $1,343 million and $244 million, respectively. At March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the assets and liabilities of the VIEs consisted primarily of property, plant and equipment, equity method investments and TEF liabilities. At March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, equity method investments of VIEs were approximately $159 million and $161 million, respectively.

At December 31, 2016, we considered the following four structures to be TEFs: (1) Aeolus Wind Power II LLC, (2) Aeolus Wind Power III LLC, (3) Aeolus Wind Power IV LLC, and (4) Locust Ridge Wind Farm, LLC (collectively, Aeolus). In February 2017, we acquired the tax equity investor’s interest in Locust Ridge Wind Farm, LLC for $5 million. This acquisition converted the partnership to a single member limited liability company and it no longer qualifies as a VIE.

We retain a class of membership interest and day-to-day operational and management control of Aeolus, subject to investor approval of certain major decisions. The third-party investors do not receive a lien on any Aeolus assets and have no recourse against us for their upfront cash payments.

Wind power generation is subject to certain favorable tax treatments in the U.S. In order to monetize the tax benefits generated by Aeolus, we have entered into the Aeolus structured institutional partnership investment transactions related to certain wind farms. Under the Aeolus structures, we contribute certain wind assets, relating both to existing wind farms and wind farms that are being placed into operation at the time of the relevant transaction, and other parties invest in the share equity of the Aeolus limited liability holding company. As consideration for their investment, the third parties make either an upfront cash payment or a combination of upfront cash and issuance of fixed and contingent notes.

The third party investors receive a disproportionate amount of the profit or loss, cash distributions and tax benefits resulting from the wind farm energy generation until the investor recovers its investment and achieves a cumulative annual after-tax return. Once this target return is met, the relative sharing of profit or loss, cash distributions and taxable income or loss between the Company and the third party investor flips, with the company taking a disproportionate share of such amounts thereafter. We also have a call option to acquire the third party investors’ membership interest within a defined time period after this target return is met.

Our Aeolus interests are not subject to any rights of investors that may restrict our ability to access or use the assets or to settle any existing liabilities associated with the interests.

Note 18. Subsequent Events

On April 20, 2017, the board of directors of AVANGRID declared a quarterly dividend of $0.432 per share on its common stock. This dividend is payable on July 3, 2017 to shareholders of record at the close of business on June 9, 2017.

 

 

 

37


 

Item 2 . Mana gement’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

You should read the following discussion of our financial condition and results of operations in conjunction with the condensed consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included elsewhere in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and with our audited consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, and for the three years ended December 31, 2016, included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, or the SEC, on March 10, 2017, which we refer to as our “Form 10-K.” In addition to historical condensed consolidated financial information, the following discussion contains forward-looking statements that reflect our plans, estimates, and beliefs. Our actual results could differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. The foregoing and other factors are discussed and should be reviewed in our Form 10-K and other subsequent filings with the SEC.

Overview

AVANGRID is a diversified energy and utility company with more than $31 billion in assets and operations in 27 states. The company operates regulated utilities and electricity generation through two primary lines of business. Avangrid Networks is comprised of eight electric and natural gas utilities, serving approximately 3.2 million customers in New York and New England. Avangrid Renewables operates 6.5 gigawatts of electricity capacity, primarily through wind power, in 22 states across the United States. AVANGRID employs approximately 6,800 people. AVANGRID was formed by a merger between Iberdrola USA, Inc. and UIL Holdings Corporation in 2015. Iberdrola S.A., or Iberdrola, a corporation (sociedad anónima) organized under the laws of the Kingdom of Spain, a worldwide leader in the energy industry, directly owns 81.6% of the outstanding shares of AVANGRID common stock. Our primary business is ownership of our operating businesses, which are described below.

Our direct, wholly-owned subsidiaries include Avangrid Networks, Inc., or Networks, and Avangrid Renewables Holdings, Inc., or ARHI. ARHI in turn holds subsidiaries including Avangrid Renewables, LLC, or Renewables, and Enstor Gas, LLC, or Gas. Networks, owns and operates our regulated utility businesses through its subsidiaries, including electric transmission and distribution and natural gas distribution, transportation and sales. Renewables operates a portfolio of renewable energy generation facilities primarily using onshore wind power and also solar, biomass and thermal power. Gas operates our natural gas storage facilities and gas trading businesses through Enstor Energy Services LLC (gas trading) and Enstor Inc. (gas storage).

Through Networks, we own electric generation, transmission and distribution companies and natural gas distribution, transportation and sales companies in New York, Maine, Connecticut and Massachusetts, delivering electricity to approximately 2.2 million electric utility customers and delivering natural gas to approximately 1 million natural gas public utility customers as of March 31, 2017.

Networks, a Maine corporation, holds our regulated utility businesses, including electric transmission and distribution and natural gas distribution, transportation and sales. Networks serves as a super-regional energy services and delivery company through eight regulated utilities it owns directly:

 

New York State Electric & Gas Corporation, or NYSEG, which serves electric and natural gas customers across more than 40% of the upstate New York geographic area;

 

Rochester Gas and Electric Corporation, or RG&E, which serves electric and natural gas customers within a nine-county region in western New York, centered around Rochester;

 

The United Illuminating Company, or UI, which serves electric customers in southwestern Connecticut;

 

Central Maine Power Company, or CMP, which serves electric customers in central and southern Maine;

 

The Southern Connecticut Gas Company, or SCG, which serves natural gas customers in Connecticut;

 

Connecticut Natural Gas Corporation, or CNG, which serves natural gas customers in Connecticut;

 

The Berkshire Gas Company, or BGC, which serves natural gas customers in western Massachusetts; and

 

Maine Natural Gas Corporation, or MNG, which serves natural gas customers in several communities in central and southern Maine.

Through Renewables, we had a combined wind, solar and thermal installed capacity of 6,538 megawatts, or MW, as of March 31, 2017, including Renewables’ share of joint projects, of which 5,852 MW was installed wind capacity. Approximately 65% of the capacity was contracted as of March 31, 2017, for an average period of 9.2 years. Being among the top three largest wind operators in the United States based on installed capacity as of March 31, 2017, Renewables strives to lead the transformation of the U.S. energy industry to a competitive, clean energy future. Renewables currently operates 54 wind farms in 19 states across the United States.

38


 

Through Gas, as of March 31, 2017, we own approximately 67.5 billion cubic feet, or Bcf, of net workin g gas storage capacity. Gas operates 52.4 Bcf of contracted or managed natural gas storage capacity in North America through Enstor Energy Services LLC, as of March 31, 2017.

Summary of Results of Operations

Our operating revenues increased by 5%, from $1.7 billion for the three months ended March 31, 2016 to $1.8 billion for the three months ended March 31, 2017.

The Networks, Renewables and Gas business revenues increased on the impact of favorable operating conditions and mark-to-market (MtM) changes on derivatives.

Net income increased by 13% from $212 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016, to $239 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017. Networks net income improved due to higher electricity and gas revenues and impacts from rate case activities in New York and Connecticut. Renewables net income increased as a result of higher production and favorable MtM changes on derivatives. Gas net loss decreased due to favorable MtM changes on derivatives.

Adjusted earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization, or adjusted EBITDA (a non-GAAP financial measure), increased by 8% from $554 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016, to $595 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017. Adjusted gross margin (a non-GAAP financial measure) increased by 4%, from $1,181 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 to $1,229 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017. The increase in the non-GAAP adjusted EBITDA and non-GAAP adjusted gross margin is primarily due to average higher rates and higher demand for gas due to colder winter in 2017 at Networks, higher output in wind production at Renewables and favorable MtM changes on energy derivatives at Renewables and Gas. For additional information and reconciliation of the non-GAAP adjusted EBITDA to net income and the non-GAAP adjusted gross margin to net income, see “— Non-GAAP Financial Measures ”.

See “— Results of Operations ” for further analysis of our operating results for the quarter.

Legislative and Regulatory Update

We are subject to complex and stringent energy, environmental and other laws and regulations at the federal, state and local levels as well as rules within the independent system operator, or ISO, markets in which we participate. Federal and state legislative and regulatory actions continue to change how our business is regulated. We are actively participating in these debates at the federal, regional, state and ISO levels. Significant updates are discussed below. For a further discussion of the environmental and other governmental regulations that affect us, see our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016.

Transmission - ROE Complaint I

On April 14, 2017, the Court of Appeals (the Court) issued its decision. The Court vacated FERC’s decision on Complaint I and remanded it to FERC. The Court found that FERC, as directed by statute, did not determine first that the existing ROE was unjust and unreasonable before determining a new ROE.  The Court ruled that FERC must first determine that the then existing 11.14% base ROE was unjust and unreasonable before selecting the 10.57% as the new base ROE. The Court also found that FERC did not provide reasoned judgment as to why 10.57%, the point ROE at the midpoint of the upper end of the zone of reasonableness,  is a just and reasonable ROE as FERC only explained in its order that the midpoint of 9.39% was not just and reasonable and a higher base ROE was warranted.  The parties or FERC could appeal the decision to the United State Supreme Court or FERC could provide additional justification and issue a decision on remand.  We cannot predict the outcome of an appeal or other action by FERC.

New York State Department of Public Service Investigation of the Preparation for and Response to the March 2017 Windstorm

At the direction of Governor Andrew Cuomo, on March 11, 2017 the New York State Department of Public Service (the “Department”) commenced an investigation of NYSEG’s and RG&E’s preparation for and response to the March 2017 windstorm, which affected more than 219,000 customers. The Department investigation will include a comprehensive review of NYSEG’s and RG&E’s preparation for and response to the windstorm, including the all aspects of the companies’ filed and approved emergency plan. The Department held public hearings on April 12 and 13, 2017. We cannot predict the outcome of this investigation.

 

 

39


 

Results of Operations

The following table sets forth financial information by segment for each of the periods indicated:

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

 

March 31, 2017

 

 

March 31, 2016

 

 

 

Total

 

 

Networks

 

 

Renewables

 

 

Gas

 

 

Other(1)

 

 

Total

 

 

Networks

 

 

Renewables

 

 

Gas

 

 

Other(1)

 

 

 

(in millions)

 

Operating Revenues

 

$

1,758

 

 

$

1,459

 

 

$

287

 

 

$

25

 

 

$

(13

)

 

$

1,670

 

 

$

1,390

 

 

$

278

 

 

$

12

 

 

$

(10

)

Operating Expenses

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Purchased power, natural gas

   and fuel used

 

 

465

 

 

 

418

 

 

 

58

 

 

 

 

 

 

(11

)

 

 

428

 

 

 

381

 

 

 

56

 

 

 

 

 

 

(9

)

Operations and maintenance

 

 

551

 

 

 

462

 

 

 

82

 

 

 

10

 

 

 

(3

)

 

 

551

 

 

 

460

 

 

 

79

 

 

 

13

 

 

 

(1

)

Depreciation and amortization

 

 

197

 

 

 

113

 

 

 

78

 

 

 

6

 

 

 

 

 

 

205

 

 

 

118

 

 

 

80

 

 

 

7

 

 

 

 

Taxes other than income taxes

 

 

147

 

 

 

130

 

 

 

13

 

 

 

2

 

 

 

2

 

 

 

137

 

 

 

119

 

 

 

14

 

 

 

2

 

 

 

2

 

Total Operating Expenses

 

 

1,360

 

 

 

1,123

 

 

 

231

 

 

 

18

 

 

 

(12

)

 

 

1,321

 

 

 

1,078

 

 

 

229

 

 

 

22

 

 

 

(8

)

Operating income (loss)

 

 

398

 

 

 

336

 

 

 

56

 

 

 

7

 

 

 

(1

)

 

 

349

 

 

 

312

 

 

 

49

 

 

 

(10

)

 

 

(2

)

Other Income (Expense)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other income (expense)

 

 

13

 

 

 

11

 

 

 

2

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

(1

)

 

 

49

 

 

 

13

 

 

 

12

 

 

 

 

 

 

25

 

Earnings (losses) from equity

   method investments

 

 

2

 

 

 

4

 

 

 

(2

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2

 

 

 

3

 

 

 

(1

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest expense, net of capitalization

 

 

(71

)

 

 

(63

)

 

 

(7

)

 

 

(7

)

 

 

6

 

 

 

(84

)

 

 

(77

)

 

 

(20

)

 

 

(6

)

 

 

19

 

Income (Loss) Before Income Tax

 

 

342

 

 

 

288

 

 

 

49

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

4

 

 

 

316

 

 

 

251

 

 

 

40

 

 

 

(16

)

 

 

42

 

Income tax expense

 

 

103

 

 

 

116

 

 

 

(21

)

 

 

(1

)

 

 

9

 

 

 

104

 

 

 

86

 

 

 

(3

)

 

 

(6

)

 

 

27

 

Net Income (Loss)

 

 

239

 

 

 

172

 

 

 

70

 

 

 

2

 

 

 

(5

)

 

 

212

 

 

 

165

 

 

 

43

 

 

 

(10

)

 

 

15

 

Less: Net income attributable to

   noncontrolling interests

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net Income (Loss) Attributable

  to Avangrid, Inc.

 

$

239

 

 

$

172

 

 

$

70

 

 

$

2

 

 

$

(5

)

 

$

212

 

 

$

165

 

 

$

43

 

 

$

(10

)

 

$

15

 

 

 

(1) Other amounts represe nt corporate and intersegment eliminations.

 

Comparison of Period to Period Results of Operations

 

Three Months Ended March 31, 2017 Compared to Three Months Ended March 31, 2016

The following table sets forth our operating revenues and expenses by segment for each of the periods indicated and as a percentage of the consolidated total of operating revenues and operating expenses, respectively:

 

Three Months Ended March 31, 2017

 

Total

 

 

Networks

 

 

Renewables

 

 

Gas

 

 

Other(1)

 

 

 

(in millions)

 

Operating revenues

 

$

1,758

 

 

$

1,459

 

 

$

287

 

 

$

25

 

 

$

(13

)

Operating revenues %

 

 

 

 

 

 

83

%

 

 

16

%

 

 

2

%

 

 

(1

)%

Operating expenses

 

$

1,360

 

 

$

1,123

 

 

$

231

 

 

$

18

 

 

$

(12

)

Operating expenses %

 

 

 

 

 

 

83

%

 

 

17

%

 

 

1

%

 

 

(1

)%

 

Three Months Ended March 31, 2016

 

Total

 

 

Networks

 

 

Renewables

 

 

Gas

 

 

Other(1)

 

 

 

(in millions)

 

Operating revenues

 

$

1,670

 

 

$

1,390

 

 

$

278

 

 

$

12

 

 

$

(10

)

Operating revenues %

 

 

 

 

 

 

83

%

 

 

17

%

 

 

1

%

 

 

(1

)%

Operating expenses

 

$

1,321

 

 

$

1,078

 

 

$

229

 

 

$

22

 

 

$

(8

)

Operating expenses %

 

 

 

 

 

 

82

%

 

 

17

%

 

 

2

%

 

 

(1

)%

 

(1)

Other amounts represent corporate and intersegment eliminations.

40


 

Operating Revenues

Our operating revenues increased by 5% from $1.7 billion for the three months ended March 31, 2016 to $1.8 billion for the three months ended March 31, 2016, as detailed by segment below:

Networks

Operating revenues increased by $69 million, or 5%, from $1.4 billion for the three months ended March 31, 2016 to $1.5 billion for the three months ended March 31, 2017. The colder winter weather in 2017 increased demand for gas, with a corresponding revenue impact of $54 million. Electricity revenues increased by $47 million due to primarily the impact of $44 million from higher average rates in the first quarter of 2017 compared to the same period of 2016 from rate case activities in New York and Connecticut. Revenue related regulatory activities decreased by $32 million primarily due to decreases in the energy supply reconciliation of $24 million, amortization of regulatory deferrals from previous rate case of $24 million that ended in 2016, stranded cost of $8 million, property and power taxes of $18 million, offset by increases in  recoveries on the Ginna RSSA of $20 million, revenue decoupling mechanisms of $8 million and an adjustment of $14 million to unfunded future income tax to reflect the change from a flow through to normalization method, which has been recorded as an increase to revenue, with an offsetting and equal increase to income tax expense.

Renewables

Operating revenues increased by $9 million, or 3%, from $278 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 to $287 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017. The increase in operating revenues was due to an increases of $8 million from wind production with output increasing 4%, or 145GWh, $4 million of revenue from sales of renewable energy certificates, favorable MtM changes of $23 million on energy derivative transactions entered into for economic hedging purposes, offset by $9 million decrease in realized prices mainly due to a change in status of purchase power agreements and a decline in prices, a decline in thermal revenue of $6 million offset within purchases below and $12 million in other revenues mainly due to sale of transmission rights that occurred in 2016.

Gas

Operating revenues increased by $13 million from $12 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 to $25 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017. The increase in operating revenues was due to $1 million of improved performance in the owned and contracted storage businesses and $11 million favorable MtM change.

Purchased Power, Natural Gas and Fuel Used

Our purchased power, natural gas and fuel used increased by 9%, from $428 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 to $465 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017, as detailed by segment below:

Networks

Purchased power, natural gas and fuel used increased by $37 million, or 10%, from $381 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 to $418 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017. The increase is primarily driven by increase in average gas prices combined with an increase in overall units procured for the same reasons outlined under Networks revenues, that is, the colder weather in winter 2017.    

Renewables

Purchased power, natural gas and fuel used increased by $2 million, or 4%, from $56 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 to $58 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017. Klamath power plant expense was $7 million lower, MtM changes on derivatives were unfavorable $7 million due to market price changes in the current period and transmission and energy purchases were higher by $2 million.

Gas

The gas business had no purchased power, natural gas and fuel used for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016. As a predominantly trading business, such expenses are required to be netted with revenues.

41


 

Operations and Maintenance

Our operations and maintenance remained at the same level of $551 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016.

Networks

Operations and maintenance increased by $2 million or less than 1% from $460 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 to $462 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017. The increase is primarily due to increase in labor costs and corporate charges, which account for $7 million and $5 million, respectively, partially offset by decrease of $12 million in the Ginna RSSA costs and other costs.

Renewables

Operations and maintenance expenses increased by $3 million or 4% from $79 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 to $82 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017. Salary costs were $2 million higher due to headcount increases, and maintenance costs on capital assets were $1 million higher in the first quarter 2017 compared with the same period of 2016.

Gas

Operations and maintenance decreased by $3 million, or 23%, from $13 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 to $10 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017. Adjustment in pension costs made in 2016 primarily account for decreases in operation and maintenance in the three month period ended March 31, 2017.

Depreciation and Amortization

Depreciation and amortization for the three months ended March 31, 2017 was $197 million compared to $205 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016, a decrease of $8 million. The decrease is primarily due to decrease of $8 million in Networks depreciation expense as a result of updates to asset lives from the rate case activities.

Other Income (Expense) and Earnings from Equity Method Investments

Other income and (expense) and equity earnings decreased by $36 million from $51 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 to $15 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017 primarily due to the impact of $31 million from sale of the Iroquois equity investment occurred in the first quarter of 2016 and $1 million for reduced allowance for funds used during construction in Networks.

Interest Expense, Net of Capitalization

Interest expense for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 were $71 million and $84 million, respectively.  Networks was $18 million favorable, mainly as a result of lower interest expense on regulatory deferrals, offset by $3 million increase in interest expenses on a new outstanding debt.

Income Tax Expense

The effective tax rates for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2016 were 30.1% and 32.9% respectively. The rates in the first quarter of 2017 and 2016 are lower than the 35% statutory federal income tax rate predominately due to the recognition of production tax credits associated with wind production. Additionally, a $14 million increase in income tax expense is due to unfunded future income tax to reflect the change from a flow through to normalization method, which has been recorded as an increase to revenue, with an offsetting and equal increase to income tax expense. This increase was partially offset by other discrete tax adjustments during the period.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

To supplement our consolidated financial statements presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP, we consider certain non-GAAP financial measures that are not prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP, including adjusted gross margin, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income and adjusted earnings per share, or adjusted EPS. The non-GAAP financial measures we use are specific to AVANGRID and the non-GAAP financial measures of other companies may not be calculated in the same manner. We use these non-GAAP financial measures, in addition to U.S. GAAP measures, to establish operating budgets and operational goals to manage and monitor

42


 

our business, evaluate our operating and financial performance and to compare such performance to prior periods and to the perfor mance of our competitors. We believe that presenting such non-GAAP financial measures is useful because such measures can be used to analyze and compare profitability between companies and industries because it eliminates the impact of financing and certai n non-cash charges. In addition, we present non-GAAP financial measures because we believe that they and other similar measures are widely used by certain investors, securities analysts and other interested parties as supplemental measures of performance.

We define adjusted EBITDA as net income attributable to AVANGRID, adding back income tax expense, depreciation, amortization, impairment of non-current assets and interest expense, net of capitalization, and then subtracting other income and earnings from equity method investments. We define adjusted net income as net income adjusted to exclude gain on the sale of equity method investment, impairment of investment, mark-to-market adjustments to reflect the effect of mark-to-market changes in the fair value of derivative instruments used by AVANGRID to economically hedge market price fluctuations in related underlying physical transactions for the purchase and sale of electricity and adjustments for the non-core Gas storage business, for which we are exploring strategic options. We believe adjusted net income is more useful in understanding and evaluating actual and projected financial performance and contribution of AVANGRID core lines of business and to more fully compare and explain our results. Additionally, we evaluate the nature of our revenues and expenses and adjust to reflect classification by nature for evaluation of our non-GAAP financial measures as opposed to by function. The most directly comparable U.S. GAAP measure to adjusted EBITDA and adjusted net income is net income. We also define adjusted gross margin as adjusted EBITDA adding back operations and maintenance and taxes other than income taxes and then subtracting transmission wheeling. We also define adjusted earnings per share (EPS) as adjusted net income converted to an earnings per share amount.  

The use of non-GAAP financial measures is not intended to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for, or superior to, AVANGRID’s U.S. GAAP financial information, and investors are cautioned that the non-GAAP financial measures are limited in their usefulness, may be unique to AVANGRID, and should be considered only as a supplement to AVANGRID’s U.S. GAAP financial measures. The non-GAAP financial measures may not be comparable to other similarly titled measures of other companies and have limitations as analytical tools.

Non-GAAP financial measures are not primary measurements of our performance under U.S. GAAP and should not be considered as alternatives to operating income, net income or any other performance measures determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP.

Reconciliation of the Net Income attributable to AVANGRID to adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP) and adjusted gross margin (non-GAAP) before excluding gain on the sale of equity method investment, impairment of investment, impact from mark-to-market activities in Renewables and Gas storage business, and before adjustments to reflect the classification of revenues and expenses by nature for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, is as follows:

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

 

March 31,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

 

 

 

 

Net Income Attributable to Avangrid, Inc.

 

$

239

 

 

$

212

 

Add: Income tax expense

 

 

103

 

 

 

104

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

 

197

 

 

 

205

 

Interest expense, net of capitalization

 

 

71

 

 

 

84

 

Less:  Other income

 

 

13

 

 

 

49

 

Earnings from equity method investments

 

 

2

 

 

 

2

 

Adjusted EBITDA (2)

 

$

595

 

 

$

554

 

Add: Operations and maintenance (1)

 

 

551

 

 

 

551

 

Taxes other than income taxes

 

 

147

 

 

 

137

 

Less: Transmission wheeling (1)

 

 

64

 

 

 

61

 

Adjusted gross margin (2)

 

$

1,229

 

 

$

1,181

 

 

(1)

Transmission wheeling is a component of operations and maintenance and is considered a component of adjusted gross margin since it is directly associated with the power supply costs included in the cost of sales.

(2)

Adjusted EBITDA and adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP financial measures and are presented before excluding gain on the sale of equity method investment, impairment of investment and before adjustments to reflect the classification of revenues and expenses by nature. For additional details of these adjustments and reconciliation of net income to adjusted EBITDA and adjusted gross margin that reflect these adjustments see the table on page 45 of this Form 10-Q.

43


 

 

Three Months Ended March 31, 2017 Compared to Three Months Ended March 31, 2016

The following table sets forth our adjusted EBITDA and adjusted gross margin by segment for each of the periods indicated and as a percentage of operating revenues:

 

Three Months Ended March 31, 2017

 

Total

 

 

Networks

 

 

Renewables

 

 

Gas

 

 

Other(1)

 

 

 

(in millions)

 

Adjusted gross margin (2)

 

$

1,229

 

 

$

977

 

 

$

228

 

 

$

25

 

 

$

(1

)

Adjusted gross margin %

 

 

 

 

 

 

67

%

 

 

79

%

 

 

100

%

 

 

8

%

Adjusted EBITDA (2)

 

$

595

 

 

$

449

 

 

$

133

 

 

$

14

 

 

$

(1

)

Adjusted EBITDA %

 

 

 

 

 

 

31

%

 

 

46

%

 

 

56

%

 

 

8

%

 

Three Months Ended March 31, 2016

 

Total

 

 

Networks

 

 

Renewables

 

 

Gas

 

 

Other(1)

 

 

 

(in millions)

 

Adjusted gross margin (2)

 

$

1,181

 

 

$

950

 

 

$

221

 

 

$

11

 

 

$

(1

)

Adjusted gross margin %

 

 

 

 

 

 

68

%

 

 

79

%

 

 

92

%

 

 

10

%

Adjusted EBITDA (2)

 

$

554

 

 

$

430

 

 

$

129

 

 

$

(3

)

 

$

(2

)

Adjusted EBITDA %

 

 

 

 

 

 

31

%

 

 

46

%

 

 

(25

)%

 

 

20

%

 

(1)

Other amounts represent corporate and intersegment eliminations.

(2)

Adjusted EBITDA and adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP financial measures and are presented before excluding gain on the sale of equity method investment, impairment of investment and before adjustments to reflect the classification of revenues and expenses by nature. For additional details of these adjustments and reconciliation of net income to adjusted EBITDA and adjusted gross margin that reflect these adjustments see the table on page 45 of this Form 10-Q.

Our adjusted gross margin increased by $48 million, or 4%, from $1,181 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 to $1,229 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017.

Our adjusted EBITDA increased by $41 million, or 8%, from $554 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 to $595 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017.

Details of the period to period comparison are described below at the segment level.

Networks

Adjusted gross margin increased by $27 million from $950 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 to $977 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017. The increase is primarily driven by average higher rates from rate case activities in New York and Connecticut and higher demand for gas due to colder winter in 2017.

Adjusted EBITDA increased by $19 million or 5% from $430 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 to $449 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017. The increase was due to the same reasons discussed above for adjusted gross margin.

Renewables

Adjusted gross margin increased by $7 million, or 2%, from $221 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 to $228 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017. The increase was due to the increase in revenues from increases in wind production and favorable MtM changes on energy derivatives.

Adjusted EBITDA increased by $4 million, or 3%, from $129 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 to $133 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017. The increase was due to the same reasons discussed above for adjusted gross margin.

44


 

Gas

Adjusted gross margin increased by $14 million, or 108%, from $11 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 to $25 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017. The increase is primarily associated with favorable MtM changes in the current period as compared to the same period of 2016.

Adjusted EBITDA increased by $17 million, or 567%, from negative $3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 to $14 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017. The increase was due primarily to the same reasons discussed above for adjusted gross margin.

The following table provides a reconciliation between Net Income attributable to AVANGRID and adjusted gross margin (non-GAAP) and adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP) by segment after excluding gain on the sale of equity method investment, impairment of investment, impact of mark-to-market activity in Renewables and Gas storage business, and after adjustments to reflect the classification of revenues and expenses by nature for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively:

 

 

 

 

Three Months Ended March 31, 2017

 

 

 

Total

 

 

Networks

 

 

Renewables

 

 

Corporate *

 

 

Gas Storage

 

 

 

(in millions)

 

Net Income Attributable to Avangrid, Inc.

 

$

239

 

 

$

172

 

 

$

70

 

 

$

(5

)

 

$

2

 

Adjustments:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    Mark-to-market adjustments - Renewables

 

 

(17

)

 

 

 

 

 

(17

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

    Income tax impact of adjustments (1)

 

 

6

 

 

 

 

 

 

6

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    Gas Storage, net of tax

 

 

(2

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(2

)

Adjusted Net Income

 

$

227

 

 

$

172

 

 

$

59

 

 

$

(5

)

 

$

 

Add: Income tax expense (2)

 

 

96

 

 

 

102

 

 

 

(15

)

 

 

9

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization (3)

 

 

240

 

 

 

139

 

 

 

101

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest expense, net of capitalization (4)

 

 

36

 

 

 

33

 

 

 

7

 

 

 

(4

)

 

 

 

Less: Earnings (losses) from equity

   method investments

 

 

1

 

 

 

4

 

 

 

(3

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Adjusted EBITDA (6)

 

$

598

 

 

$

443

 

 

$

155

 

 

$

 

 

$

 

Add: Operations and maintenance (5)

 

 

382

 

 

 

326

 

 

 

59

 

 

 

(2

)

 

 

 

Taxes other than income taxes

 

 

137

 

 

 

125

 

 

 

11

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

 

Adjusted gross margin (6)

 

$

1,117

 

 

$

893

 

 

$

224

 

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

 

 

Three Months Ended March 31, 2016

 

 

 

Total

 

 

Networks

 

 

Renewables

 

 

Corporate *

 

 

Gas Storage

 

 

 

(in millions)

 

Net Income Attributable to Avangrid, Inc.

 

$

212

 

 

$

165

 

 

$

43

 

 

$

15

 

 

$

(10

)

Adjustments:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    Sale of equity method and other investment

 

 

(33

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(33

)

 

 

 

    Impairment of investment

 

 

3

 

 

 

3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    Mark-to-market adjustments - Renewables

 

 

(1

)

 

 

 

 

 

(1

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

    Income tax impact of adjustments (1)

 

 

13

 

 

 

(1

)

 

 

 

 

 

14

 

 

 

 

    Gas Storage, net of tax

 

 

10

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10

 

Adjusted Net Income

 

$

204

 

 

$

167

 

 

$

42

 

 

$

(4

)

 

$

 

Add: Income tax expense (2)

 

 

105

 

 

 

86

 

 

 

6

 

 

 

13

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization (3)

 

 

244

 

 

 

138

 

 

 

106

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest expense, net of capitalization (4)

 

 

48

 

 

 

46

 

 

 

12

 

 

 

(10

)

 

 

 

Less: Earnings (losses) from equity

   method investments

 

 

1

 

 

 

3

 

 

 

(2

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Adjusted EBITDA (6)

 

$

600

 

 

$

434

 

 

$

168

 

 

$

(1

)

 

$

 

Add: Operations and maintenance (5)

 

 

299

 

 

 

259

 

 

 

39

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

 

Taxes other than income taxes

 

 

136

 

 

 

123

 

 

 

12

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

 

Adjusted gross margin (6)

 

$

1,035

 

 

$

816

 

 

$

219

 

 

$

1

 

 

$

 

 

 

(1)

Income tax impact of adjustments: 2017 - $6 million from MtM adjustment; 2016 - $14 million from sale of equity method investment, $(1) million on impairment of investment and $0.3 million from MtM adjustment.

 

 

(2)

Adjustments have been made for production tax credit adjustments for the amount of $12 million and $9 million for three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, as they have been included in operating revenues in Renewables, and $14 million of unfunded future income

 

45


 

 

taxes in Networks have been reclassified from revenues to reflect classification by nature, as discussed above. After reflecting these by nature classification adjustments the calculated effective income tax rates are impacted for both periods presented under this by nature classification presentation.

 

 

(3)

Adjustments have been made for the inclusion of vehicle depreciation and bad debt provision within depreciation and amortization from operations and maintenance based on the by nature classification. Vehicle depreciation was $5 million and $4 million and bad debt provision was $12 million and $4 million in Networks, for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. Additionally, government grants and investment tax credits amortization have been presented within other operating income and not within depreciation and amortization based on the by nature classification as follows: government grants of $1.6 million and $1.7 million in Networks and investment tax credits of $22 million and $26 million in Renewables, for the three month periods ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

 

 

(4)

Adjustments have been made for allowance for funds used during construction, debt portion, to reflect these amounts within other income and expenses in Networks for the periods presented.  

 

 

(5)

Adjustments have been made for regulatory amounts to reflect amounts in revenues based on the by nature classification of these items for the periods presented.  In addition, the vehicle depreciation and bad debt provision have been reflected within depreciation and amortization in Networks for the periods presented.  

 

 

(6)

Adjusted EBITDA and adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP financial measures and are presented after excluding gain on the sale of equity method investment, impairment of investment, impact from mark-to-market activities in Renewables and Gas storage business, and after adjustments to reflect the classification of revenues and expenses by nature explained in notes (1)-(5) above.

 

* Includes corporate and other non-regulated entities as well as intersegment eliminations.

The following tables provides a reconciliations between Net Income attributable to AVANGRID and Adjusted Net Income (non-GAAP), and EPS attributable to AVANGRID and adjusted EPS (non-GAAP) after excluding gain on the sale of equity method investment, impairment of investment, impact from mark-to-market activities in Renewables and Gas storage business for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively:

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

 

March 31,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

Networks

 

$

172

 

 

$

165

 

Renewables

 

 

70

 

 

 

43

 

Corporate (1)

 

 

(5

)

 

 

15

 

Gas Storage

 

 

2

 

 

 

(10

)

   Net Income

 

$

239

 

 

$

212

 

Adjustments:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sale of equity method and other investment

 

 

 

 

 

(33

)

Impairment of investment

 

 

 

 

 

3

 

Mark-to-market adjustments - Renewables (2)

 

 

(17

)

 

 

(1

)

Income tax impact of adjustments

 

 

6

 

 

 

13

 

Gas Storage, net of tax

 

 

(2

)

 

 

10

 

  Adjusted Net Income (3)

 

$

227

 

 

$

204

 

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

 

March 31,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

Networks

 

$

0.56

 

 

$

0.53

 

Renewables

 

 

0.23

 

 

 

0.14

 

Corporate (1)

 

 

(0.02

)

 

 

0.05

 

Gas Storage

 

 

0.01

 

 

 

(0.03

)

   Net Income

 

 

0.77

 

 

 

0.69

 

Adjustments:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sale of equity method and other investment

 

 

 

 

 

(0.11

)

Impairment of investment

 

 

 

 

 

0.01

 

Mark-to-market adjustments - Renewables (2)

 

 

(0.05

)

 

 

 

Income tax impact of adjustments

 

 

0.02

 

 

 

0.04

 

Gas Storage, net of tax

 

 

(0.01

)

 

 

0.03

 

  Adjusted Net Income (3)

 

$

0.73

 

 

$

0.66

 

 

(1)

Includes corporate and other non-regulated entities as well as intersegment eliminations.

 

(2)

Mark-to-market adjustments relate to changes in the fair value of derivative instruments used by AVANGRID to economically hedge market price fluctuations in related underlying physical transactions for the purchase and sale of electricity and gas.

 

(3)

Adjusted net income and adjusted earnings per share are non-GAAP financial measures and are presented after excluding gain on the sale of equity method investment, impairment of investment, impact from mark-to-market activities in Renewables and Gas storage business.

46


 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Our operations, capital investment and business development require significant short-term liquidity and long-term capital resources. Historically, we have used cash from operations, and borrowings under our credit facilities and commercial paper programs as our primary sources of liquidity. Our long-term capital requirements have been met primarily through retention of earnings, equity contributions from Iberdrola and borrowings in the investment grade debt capital markets. Continued access to these sources of liquidity and capital are critical to us. Risks may increase due to circumstances beyond our control, such as a general disruption of the financial markets and adverse economic conditions.

We and our subsidiaries are required to comply with certain covenants in connection with our respective loan agreements. The covenants are standard and customary in financing agreements, and we and our subsidiaries were in compliance with such covenants as of March 31, 2017.

Liquidity Position

At March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, available liquidity was approximately $1,181 million and $1,441 million, respectively.

We manage our overall liquidity position as part of the group of companies controlled by Iberdrola, or the Iberdrola Group, and are a party to a notional cash pooling agreement with Bank Mendes Gans, N.V., BMG, along with certain subsidiaries of Iberdrola Group. The notional cash pooling agreement aids the Iberdrola Group in efficient cash management and reduces the need for external borrowing by the pool participants. Parties to the agreement, including us, may deposit funds with or borrow from BMG, provided that the net balance of funds deposited or borrowed by all pool participants in the aggregate is not less than zero. Deposits are available for next day withdrawal. In advance of the United Kingdom “BREXIT” vote, we took steps to reposition our liquidity and our deposits with BMG were withdrawn and reinvested in money market accounts. The BMG balance at March 31, 2017 was zero. The deposit amounts are reflected in our consolidated balance sheet under cash and cash equivalents because our deposited surplus funds under the cash pooling agreement are highly-liquid short-term investments. We also have a bi-lateral demand note agreement with a Canadian affiliate of the Iberdrola Group under which we had notes payable balance outstanding of $17 million at March 31, 2017.

We optimize our liquidity within the United States through a series of arms’-length intercompany lending arrangements with our subsidiaries and among the regulated utilities to provide for lending of surplus cash to subsidiaries with liquidity needs, subject to the limitation that the regulated utilities may not lend to unregulated affiliates. These arrangements minimize overall short-term funding costs and maximize returns on the temporary cash investments of the subsidiaries. We have the capacity to borrow up to $1.5 billion from the lenders committed to the facility

The following table provides the components of our liquidity position as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively:

 

 

 

As of    March 31,

 

 

As of     December 31,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

 

 

(in millions)

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

$

30

 

 

$

91

 

AVANGRID Credit Facility

 

 

1,500

 

 

 

1,500

 

Less: borrowings

 

 

(349

)

 

 

(150

)

Total

 

$

1,181

 

 

$

1,441

 

AVANGRID Commercial Paper Program

On May 13, 2016, AVANGRID established a commercial paper program with a limit of $1 billion that is backstopped by the AVANGRID credit facility (described below). As of March 31, 2017 and May 3, 2017, there was $349 million and $555 million of commercial paper outstanding, respectively.

AVANGRID Credit Facility

On April 5, 2016, AVANGRID and its subsidiaries, NYSEG, RG&E, CMP, UI, CNG, SCG and BGC entered into a revolving credit facility with a syndicate of banks, or the AVANGRID Credit Facility, that provides for maximum borrowings of up to $1.5 billion in the aggregate.  Since the facility is a backstop to the AVANGRID commercial paper program, the amounts available under the facility at March 31, 2017 and May 3, 2017, were $1,151 million and $945 million, respectively.

47


 

Capital Req uirements

We expect to fund any quarterly shareholder dividends primarily from the cash provided by operations of our businesses in the future. We have a revolving credit facility, as described above, to fund short-term liquidity needs and we believe that we will have access to the capital markets should additional, long-term growth capital be necessary.

We expect to accrue approximately $1.9 billion in capital expenditures through the remainder of 2017.

Cash Flows

Our cash flows depend on many factors, including general economic conditions, regulatory decisions, weather, commodity price movements, and operating expense and capital spending control.

The following is a summary of the cash flows by activity for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively:

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

 

March 31,

 

 

 

2017

 

 

2016

 

 

 

(in millions)

 

Net cash provided by operating activities

 

$

441

 

 

$

396

 

Net cash used in investing activities

 

 

(514

)

 

 

(201

)

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

 

 

12

 

 

 

(220

)

Net decrease in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash

 

$

(61

)

 

$

(25

)

 

Operating Activities

For the three months ended March 31, 2017, net cash provided by operating activities was $441 million. During the three months ended March 31, 2017, Renewables contributed $121 million of operating cash flow associated with wholesale sales of energy, Networks contributed $286 million of operating cash as the result of regulated transmission and distribution sales of electricity and natural gas, and Gas provided $8 million in cash associated with marketing of wholesale gas and gas storage services. Additionally, $5 million in cash was used associated with corporate operating expenses in support of the operating segments and changes in working capital provided $31 million in cash. The cash from operating activities for the three months ended March 31, 2017 compared to the three months ended March 31, 2016 increased by $45 million, primarily attributable to the increased operating revenues. The $102 million net change in operating assets and liabilities during the three months ended March 31, 2017 was primarily attributable to a net decrease of $144 million in accounts receivable and payable due to impacts from sales and purchases, decrease in inventories and other assets of $11 million and $64 million, respectively, offset by $3 million of cash distribution from equity method investments, increase in taxes accrued and regulatory assets/liabilities of $9 million and $45 million, respectively.

For the three months ended March 31, 2016, net cash provided by operating activities was $396 million. During the three months ended March 31, 2016, Renewables contributed $255 million of operating cash flow associated with wholesale sales of energy, Networks contributed $300 million of operating cash as the result of regulated transmission and distribution sales of electricity and natural gas, and Gas used $3 million in cash associated with losses on marketing of wholesale gas and gas storage services. Additionally $15 million in cash was used associated with corporate operating expenses in support of the operating segments. In addition, changes in working capital used $170 million in cash. The cash from operating activities for the three months ended March 31, 2016 compared to the three months ended March 31, 2015 decreased by $63 million, primarily attributable to the increased operation and maintenance expenses and corporate charges. The $202 million net change in operating assets and liabilities during the three months ended March 31, 2016 was primarily attributable to a net decrease of $92 million in accounts payable and receivable due to impacts from sales and purchases and net changes of $67 million and $51 million in regulatory assets and liabilities and other liabilities, respectively.

Investing Activities

For the three months ended March 31, 2017, net cash used in investing activities was $514 million, which was comprised of $267 million associated with capital expenditures at Networks and $257 million of capital expenditures at Renewables primarily associated with payments in support of the El Cabo construction project. This was offset by $6 million of contributions in aid of construction and $2 million of cash distributions from equity method investments.

For the three months ended March 31, 2016, net cash used in investing activities was $201 million, which was comprised of $206 million associated with capital expenditures at Networks and $70 million of capital expenditures at Renewables associated

48


 

with turbine payments in support of the Baffin Bay wind construction project. This was offset by proceeds of $54 million fr om the sale of our equity method investment in Iroquois.

Financing Activities

For the three months ended March 31, 2017, financing activities provided $12 million in cash reflecting primarily a net increase in non-current debt and current notes payable of $201 million, payments on the tax equity financing arrangements of $27 million and capital lease of $27 million and dividends of $134 million.

For the three months ended March 31, 2016, financing activities used $220 million in cash reflecting primarily a net decrease in non-current and current notes payable of $202 million and payments on the tax equity financing arrangements of $17 million.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

There have been no material changes in the off-balance sheet arrangements during the three months ended March 31, 2017 as compared to those reported for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016 in our Form 10-K.

Contractual Obligations

There have been no material changes in contractual and contingent obligations during the three months ended March 31, 2017  as compared to those reported for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016 in our Form 10-K.

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

The accompanying financial statements provided herein have been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. In preparing the accompanying financial statements, our management has applied accounting policies and made certain estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, shareholder’s equity, revenues and expenses, and the disclosures thereof. While we believe that these policies and estimates used are appropriate, actual future events can and often do result in outcomes that can be materially different from these estimates. The accounting policies and related risks described in our Form 10-K are those that depend most heavily on these judgments and estimates. As of March 31, 2017, there have been no material changes to any of the policies described therein.

New Accounting Standards

We review new accounting standards to determine the expected financial impact, if any, that the adoption of each such standard will have. The following are new accounting pronouncements issued since December 31, 2016, that we are evaluating to determine their effect on our condensed consolidated interim financial statements.

Clarifying the definition of a business and the scope of asset derecognition guidance, and accounting for partial sales of nonfinancial assets - In January 2017 the FASB issued amendments to clarify the definition of a business, and in a second phase of the project, issued amendments in February 2017 concerning asset derecognition and partial sales of nonfinancial assets.

Improving the presentation of net periodic benefit costs - In March 2017 the FASB issued amendments to improve the presentation of net periodic pension cost and net periodic postretirement benefit cost in the financial statements.

For further discussion of new accounting pronouncements refer to Note 3 of our condensed consolidated interim financial statements for the three months ended March 31, 2017.

 

49


 

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q contains a number of forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of forward-looking terms such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “can,” “expects,” “believes,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “plans,” “estimates,” “projects,” “assumes,” “guides,” “targets,” “forecasts,” “is confident that” and “seeks” or the negative of such terms or other variations on such terms or comparable terminology. Such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements about our plans, objectives and intentions, outlooks or expectations for earnings, revenues, expenses or other future financial or business performance, strategies or expectations, or the impact of legal or regulatory matters on business, results of operations or financial condition of the business and other statements that are not historical facts. Such statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of our management and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties that could cause actual outcomes and results to differ materially. The foregoing and other factors are discussed and should be reviewed in our Form 10-K and other subsequent filings with the SEC. Specifically, forward-looking statements may include statements relating to:

 

the future financial performance, anticipated liquidity and capital expenditures of the Company;

 

actions or inactions of local, state or federal regulatory agencies;

 

success in retaining or recruiting, our officers, key employees or directors;

 

changes in levels or timing of capital expenditures;

 

adverse developments in general market, business, economic, labor, regulatory and political conditions;

 

fluctuations in weather patterns;

 

technological developments;

 

the impact of any cyber-breaches, grid disturbances, acts of war or terrorism or natural disasters; and

 

the impact of any change to applicable laws and regulations affecting operations, including those relating to environmental and climate change, taxes, price controls, regulatory approval and permitting; and

 

other presently unknown unforeseen factors.

Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should any of the underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary in material respects from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. We do not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this report, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required under applicable securities laws.

 

Item 3.  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

There have been no material changes in our market risk during the three months ended March 31, 2017, as compared to those reported for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016 in our Form 10-K.

 

Item 4.  Controls and Procedures

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Our management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer, or CEO, and our Chief Financial Officer, or CFO, has evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a- 15(e) and 15d- 15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (Exchange Act)), as of the end of the period covered by this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. Based on such evaluation, our CEO and CFO have concluded that as of such date, our disclosure controls and procedures were not effective, as a result of the material weaknesses that exist in our internal control over financial reporting as previously described in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016.

Previously Identified Material Weaknesses

As of December 31, 2016, management concluded that certain deficiencies rose to the level of a material weakness in controls related to: (1) the accounting for the change in the estimated useful life of certain elements of the wind farms at Renewables and other smaller deficiencies related to documentation of internal controls procedures, and enhancement of review controls at Renewables, (2) the preparation of the consolidated financial statements, specifically the classification and disclosure of financial information, and (3) the measurement and disclosure of income taxes. As a result of these identified material weaknesses, management concluded that, as of December 31, 2016, our internal control over financial reporting was not effective. This material weakness did not result in any restatement of prior-period financial statements.

A material weakness is a deficiency, or combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of our annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis.

50


 

Notwithstanding such material weaknesses in internal control over financial reporting, our management concluded that our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements in this report fairly present, in all material respects, the Company’s financial position, results of operations and cash flows as of the dat es, and for the periods presented, in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.

Remediation Plans and Other Information

AVANGRID’s management, with oversight from its Audit and Compliance Committee of the Board of Directors of AVANGRID, is actively engaged in remediation efforts to address the material weakness identified above. Management has taken and will take a number of actions to remediate the material weakness including the following remediation plans:

 

-

Implementing and enhancing additional management review controls;

 

-

Increasing accounting personnel to devote additional time and internal control resources;

 

-

Implementing enhanced controls to monitor the effectiveness of the underlying business process controls that are dependent on the data and financial reports generated from the relevant information systems;

 

-

Continuing to implement controls newly designed during the third and fourth quarters of 2016 that management has determined through testing are more precise;

 

-

Implementing specific enhanced review procedures in the property, plant and equipment area, including the estimation of useful lives, as well as within income taxes;

 

-

Educating and re-training internal control employees regarding internal control processes to mitigate identified risks and maintaining adequate documentation to evidence the effective design and operation of such processes; and

 

-

Enhancing the automation of processes and controls to allow for the more timely completion and enhanced review of internal controls surrounding financial information and disclosures.

These improvements are targeted at strengthening the Company’s internal control over financial reporting and remediating the material weakness. The Company remains committed to an effective internal control environment and management believes that these actions and the improvements management expects to achieve as a result, will remediate the material weakness. However, the material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting will not be considered remediated until the controls operate for a sufficient period of time and management has concluded, through testing that these controls operate effectively. We are in the process of implementing our remediation plan and expect to have the remediation of these material weaknesses completed by December 31, 2017.

Changes in Internal Control

Except for the control deficiencies discussed above that have been assessed as material weaknesses as of December 31, 2016, and the remediation as described within “Remediation Plans and Other Information” above, there has been no change in our internal control over financial reporting identified in management’s evaluation pursuant to Rules 13a-15(d) or 15d-15(d) of the Exchange Act during the period covered by this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q that materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

Limitations on Effectiveness of Controls and Procedures

In designing and evaluating the disclosure controls and procedures, management recognizes that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objectives. In addition, the design of disclosure controls and procedures must reflect the fact that there are resource constraints and that management is required to apply judgment in evaluating the benefits of possible controls and procedures relative to their costs.

 

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PART II. OTHE R INFORMATION

Item 1.  Legal Proceedings

 

Shareholder Derivative Action

On February 27, 2015, a complaint was filed in Connecticut state court against us, UIL, its board of directors and others related to our acquisition of UIL.  The complaint is a class action filed on behalf of all UIL shareowners.  The complaint generally alleges that UIL’s directors breached their fiduciary duties by failing to maximize shareowner value in negotiating and approving the acquisition, and that we, UIL, and/or Morgan Stanley aided and abetted the UIL Board’s alleged breaches.   

On November 30, 2015, the plaintiffs and the defendants executed a binding Memorandum of Understanding, or MOU, that sets forth the terms on which the parties have agreed to settle the consolidated action.  The settlement terms do not include any change in the acquisition consideration but only additional disclosures relating to information included in our Registration Statement on Form S-4 filed with the SEC, which was declared effective on November 12, 2015, additional confirmatory discovery, and plaintiffs’ counsel fees.  The parties have agreed on the fees and submitted the unopposed settlement and dismissal to the Court on August 26, 2016. On November 4, 2016, the Court issued its preliminary approval of the settlement, there were no objections to the settlement, and on January 30, 2017, the Court held a final settlement hearing.

On April 10, 2017, the Court issued an order denying the unopposed settlement and petition for plaintiffs’ counsel fees. We are reviewing the court’s decision. We cannot predict the ultimate outcome of this matter.

 

Other Legal Proceedings

Please read “Note 7—Contingencies” and “Note 8—Environmental Liabilities” to the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements under Part I, Item 1of this report for a discussion of other legal proceedings that we believe could be material to us.

Item 1A.  Risk Factors

Shareholders and prospective investors should carefully consider the risk factors disclosed in our Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016. There have been no material changes to such risk factors.

Item 2.  Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds.

None.

Item 3.  Defaults Upon Senior Securities.

None.

Item 4.  Mine Safety Disclosures.

Not applicable.

Item 5.  Other Information.

None.

Item 6.  Exhibits

The following documents are included as exhibits to this Form 10-Q:

 

Exhibit
Number

  

Description

 

 

 

10.1

  

Amended and Restated Avangrid, Inc. Omnibus Incentive Plan*

 

 

 

10.2

  

Offer Letter, dated March 5, 2015, between Sheila Duncan and Avangrid Management Company (as assignee of Avangrid Service Company, which was formerly known as Iberdrola USA Management Corporation).*

 

 

 

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31.1

  

Chief Executive Officer Certification pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of

the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. *

 

 

 

31.2

  

Chief Financial Officer Certification pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.*

 

 

 

32

  

Certification pursuant to 18 United States Code Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.*

 

 

 

101.INS

  

XBRL Instance Document.*

 

 

 

101.SCH

  

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.*

 

 

 

101.CAL

  

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.*

 

 

 

101.DEF

  

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.*

 

 

 

101.LAB

  

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.*

 

 

 

101.PRE

  

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.*

 

 

 

 

* Filed herewith.

Compensatory plan or agreement.

 

53


 

SIGNAT URES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

 

Avangrid, Inc.

 

 

 

Date: May 5, 2017

By:

/s/ James P. Torgerson

 

 

James P. Torgerson

 

 

Director and Chief Executive Officer

 

Date: May 5, 2017

By:

/s/ Richard J. Nicholas

 

 

Richard J. Nicholas

 

 

Senior Vice President - Chief Financial Officer

 

 

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