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Account
Entergy
ETR
#559
Rank
$43.20 B
Marketcap
๐บ๐ธ
United States
Country
$96.74
Share price
1.31%
Change (1 day)
20.44%
Change (1 year)
๐ Electricity
๐ฐ Utility companies
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Annual Reports (10-K)
Entergy
Quarterly Reports (10-Q)
Financial Year FY2017 Q3
Entergy - 10-Q quarterly report FY2017 Q3
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Table of Contents
__________________________________________________________________________________________
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
(Mark One)
X
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF
THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the Quarterly Period Ended September 30, 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 Number
Registrant, State of Incorporation or Organization, Address of Principal Executive Offices, Telephone Number, and IRS Employer Identification No.
Commission
File Number
Registrant, State of Incorporation or Organization, Address of Principal Executive Offices, Telephone Number, and IRS Employer Identification No.
1-11299
ENTERGY CORPORATION
(a Delaware corporation)
639 Loyola Avenue
New Orleans, Louisiana 70113
Telephone (504) 576-4000
72-1229752
1-35747
ENTERGY NEW ORLEANS, INC.
(a Louisiana corporation)
1600 Perdido Street
New Orleans, Louisiana 70112
Telephone (504) 670-3700
72-0273040
1-10764
ENTERGY ARKANSAS, INC.
(an Arkansas corporation)
425 West Capitol Avenue
Little Rock, Arkansas 72201
Telephone (501) 377-4000
71-0005900
1-34360
ENTERGY TEXAS, INC.
(a Texas corporation)
10055 Grogans Mill Road
The Woodlands, Texas 77380
Telephone (409) 981-2000
61-1435798
1-32718
ENTERGY LOUISIANA, LLC
(a Texas limited liability company)
4809 Jefferson Highway
Jefferson, Louisiana 70121
Telephone (504) 576-4000
47-4469646
1-09067
SYSTEM ENERGY RESOURCES, INC.
(an Arkansas corporation)
1340 Echelon Parkway
Jackson, Mississippi 39213
Telephone (601) 368-5000
72-0752777
1-31508
ENTERGY MISSISSIPPI, INC.
(a Mississippi corporation)
308 East Pearl Street
Jackson, Mississippi 39201
Telephone (601) 368-5000
64-0205830
__________________________________________________________________________________________
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Indicate by check mark whether the registrants (1) have 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 registrants were required to file such reports), and (2) have been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes
þ
No
o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrants have submitted electronically and posted on Entergy’s 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 registrants were required to submit and post such files). Yes
þ
No
o
Indicate by check mark whether each 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 Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
Large
accelerated
filer
Accelerated
filer
Non-
accelerated
filer
Smaller
reporting
company
Emerging
growth
company
Entergy Corporation
ü
Entergy Arkansas, Inc.
ü
Entergy Louisiana, LLC
ü
Entergy Mississippi, Inc.
ü
Entergy New Orleans, Inc.
ü
Entergy Texas, Inc.
ü
System Energy Resources, Inc.
ü
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrants have 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.
o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrants are shell companies (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes
o
No
þ
Common Stock Outstanding
Outstanding at October 31, 2017
Entergy Corporation
($0.01 par value)
180,251,407
Entergy Corporation, Entergy Arkansas, Inc., Entergy Louisiana, LLC, Entergy Mississippi, Inc., Entergy New Orleans, Inc., Entergy Texas, Inc., and System Energy Resources, Inc. separately file this combined Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. Information contained herein relating to any individual company is filed by such company on its own behalf. Each company reports herein only as to itself and makes no other representations whatsoever as to any other company. This combined Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q supplements and updates the Annual Report on Form 10‑K for the calendar year ended December 31, 2016 and the Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended March 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017, filed by the individual registrants with the SEC, and should be read in conjunction therewith.
Table of Contents
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page Number
Forward-looking information
iii
Definitions
v
Part I. Financial Information
Entergy Corporation and Subsidiaries
Management’s Financial Discussion and Analysis
1
Consolidated Income Statements
22
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
23
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
24
Consolidated Balance Sheets
26
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity
28
Selected Operating Results
29
Notes to Financial Statements
Note 1. Commitments and Contingencies
30
Note 2. Rate and Regulatory Matters
31
Note 3. Equity
40
Note 4. Revolving Credit Facilities, Lines of Credit, Short-term Borrowings, and Long-term Debt
46
Note 5. Stock-based Compensation
51
Note 6. Retirement and Other Postretirement Benefits
53
Note 7. Business Segment Information
59
Note 8. Risk Management and Fair Values
61
Note 9. Decommissioning Trust Funds
79
Note 10. Income Taxes
87
Note 11. Property, Plant, and Equipment
88
Note 12. Variable Interest Entities
88
Note 13. Acquisitions and Dispositions
88
Note 14. Asset Retirement Obligations
89
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
91
Item 4. Controls and Procedures
91
Entergy Arkansas, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Management’s Financial Discussion and Analysis
92
Consolidated Income Statements
102
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
103
Consolidated Balance Sheets
104
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Common Equity
106
Selected Operating Results
107
Entergy Louisiana, LLC and Subsidiaries
Management’s Financial Discussion and Analysis
108
Consolidated Income Statements
119
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
120
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
121
i
Table of Contents
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page Number
Consolidated Balance Sheets
122
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity
124
Selected Operating Results
125
Entergy Mississippi, Inc.
Management’s Financial Discussion and Analysis
126
Income Statements
132
Statements of Cash Flows
133
Balance Sheets
134
Statements of Changes in Common Equity
136
Selected Operating Results
137
Entergy New Orleans, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Management’s Financial Discussion and Analysis
138
Consolidated Income Statements
145
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
147
Consolidated Balance Sheets
148
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Common Equity
150
Selected Operating Results
151
Entergy Texas, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Management’s Financial Discussion and Analysis
152
Consolidated Income Statements
160
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
161
Consolidated Balance Sheets
162
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Common Equity
164
Selected Operating Results
165
System Energy Resources, Inc.
Management’s Financial Discussion and Analysis
166
Income Statements
171
Statements of Cash Flows
173
Balance Sheets
174
Statements of Changes in Common Equity
176
Part II. Other Information
Item 1. Legal Proceedings
177
Item 1A. Risk Factors
177
Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
177
Item 5. Other Information
178
Item 6. Exhibits
183
Signature
186
ii
Table of Contents
FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
In this combined report and from time to time, Entergy Corporation and the Registrant Subsidiaries each makes statements as a registrant concerning its expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, goals, strategies, and future events or performance. Such statements are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “may,” “will,” “could,” “project,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “expect,” “estimate,” “continue,” “potential,” “plan,” “predict,” “forecast,” and other similar words or expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements but are not the only means to identify these statements. Although each of these registrants believes that these forward-looking statements and the underlying assumptions are reasonable, it cannot provide assurance that they will prove correct. Any forward-looking statement is based on information current as of the date of this combined report and speaks only as of the date on which such statement is made. Except to the extent required by the federal securities laws, these registrants undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.
Forward-looking statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties. There are factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements, including those factors discussed or incorporated by reference in (a) Item 1A. Risk Factors in the Form 10-K, (b) Management’s Financial Discussion and Analysis in the Form 10-K and in this report, and (c) the following factors (in addition to others described elsewhere in this combined report and in subsequent securities filings):
•
resolution of pending and future rate cases and negotiations, including various performance-based rate discussions, Entergy’s utility supply plan, and recovery of fuel and purchased power costs;
•
long-term risks and uncertainties associated with the termination of the System Agreement in 2016, including the potential absence of federal authority to resolve certain issues among the Utility operating companies and their retail regulators;
•
regulatory and operating challenges and uncertainties and economic risks associated with the Utility operating companies’ participation in MISO, including the effect of current or projected MISO market rules and market and system conditions in the MISO markets, the allocation of MISO system transmission upgrade costs, and the effect of planning decisions that MISO makes with respect to future transmission investments by the Utility operating companies;
•
changes in utility regulation, including the beginning or end of retail and wholesale competition, the ability to recover net utility assets and other potential stranded costs, and the application of more stringent transmission reliability requirements or market power criteria by the FERC or the U.S. Department of Justice;
•
changes in the regulation or regulatory oversight of Entergy’s nuclear generating facilities and nuclear materials and fuel, including with respect to the planned, potential, or actual shutdown of nuclear generating facilities owned or operated by Entergy Wholesale Commodities, and the effects of new or existing safety or environmental concerns regarding nuclear power plants and nuclear fuel;
•
resolution of pending or future applications, and related regulatory proceedings and litigation, for license renewals or modifications or other authorizations required of nuclear generating facilities and the effect of public and political opposition on these applications, regulatory proceedings, and litigation;
•
the performance of and deliverability of power from Entergy’s generation resources, including the capacity factors at its nuclear generating facilities;
•
the operation and maintenance of Entergy’s nuclear generating facilities require the commitment of substantial human and capital resources that can result in increased costs and capital expenditures;
•
Entergy’s ability to develop and execute on a point of view regarding future prices of electricity, natural gas, and other energy-related commodities;
•
prices for power generated by Entergy’s merchant generating facilities and the ability to hedge, meet credit support requirements for hedges, sell power forward or otherwise reduce the market price risk associated with those facilities, including the Entergy Wholesale Commodities nuclear plants;
•
the prices and availability of fuel and power Entergy must purchase for its Utility customers, and Entergy’s ability to meet credit support requirements for fuel and power supply contracts;
•
volatility and changes in markets for electricity, natural gas, uranium, emissions allowances, and other energy-related commodities, and the effect of those changes on Entergy and its customers;
iii
Table of Contents
FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION (Concluded)
•
changes in law resulting from federal or state energy legislation or legislation subjecting energy derivatives used in hedging and risk management transactions to governmental regulation;
•
changes in environmental laws and regulations or associated litigation, including requirements for reduced emissions of sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxide, greenhouse gases, mercury, particulate matter, heat, and other regulated air and water emissions, and changes in costs of compliance with environmental laws and regulations;
•
the effects of changes in federal, state or local laws and regulations, and other governmental actions or policies, including changes in monetary, fiscal, tax, environmental, or energy policies;
•
uncertainty regarding the establishment of interim or permanent sites for spent nuclear fuel and nuclear waste storage and disposal and the level of spent fuel and nuclear waste disposal fees charged by the U.S. government or other providers related to such sites;
•
variations in weather and the occurrence of hurricanes and other storms and disasters, including uncertainties associated with efforts to remediate the effects of hurricanes, ice storms, or other weather events and the recovery of costs associated with restoration, including accessing funded storm reserves, federal and local cost recovery mechanisms, securitization, and insurance;
•
effects of climate change, including the potential for increases in sea levels or coastal land and wetland loss;
•
changes in the quality and availability of water supplies and the related regulation of water use and diversion;
•
Entergy’s ability to manage its capital projects and operation and maintenance costs;
•
Entergy’s ability to purchase and sell assets at attractive prices and on other attractive terms;
•
the economic climate, and particularly economic conditions in Entergy’s Utility service area and the Northeast United States and events and circumstances that could influence economic conditions in those areas, including power prices, and the risk that anticipated load growth may not materialize;
•
the effects of Entergy’s strategies to reduce tax payments;
•
changes in the financial markets and regulatory requirements for the issuance of securities, particularly as they affect access to capital and Entergy’s ability to refinance existing securities, execute share repurchase programs, and fund investments and acquisitions;
•
actions of rating agencies, including changes in the ratings of debt and preferred stock, changes in general corporate ratings, and changes in the rating agencies’ ratings criteria;
•
changes in inflation and interest rates;
•
the effect of litigation and government investigations or proceedings;
•
changes in technology, including with respect to new, developing, or alternative sources of generation;
•
the effects, including increased security costs, of threatened or actual terrorism, cyber-attacks or data security breaches, natural or man-made electromagnetic pulses that affect transmission or generation infrastructure, accidents, and war or a catastrophic event such as a nuclear accident or a natural gas pipeline explosion;
•
Entergy’s ability to attract and retain talented management and directors;
•
changes in accounting standards and corporate governance;
•
declines in the market prices of marketable securities and resulting funding requirements and the effects on benefits costs for Entergy’s defined benefit pension and other postretirement benefit plans;
•
future wage and employee benefit costs, including changes in discount rates and returns on benefit plan assets;
•
changes in decommissioning trust fund values or earnings or in the timing of, requirements for, or cost to decommission Entergy’s nuclear plant sites and the implementation of decommissioning of such sites following shutdown;
•
the decision to cease merchant power generation at all Entergy Wholesale Commodities nuclear power plants by 2022, including the implementation of the planned shutdown of Pilgrim, Indian Point 2, Indian Point 3, and Palisades;
•
the effectiveness of Entergy’s risk management policies and procedures and the ability and willingness of its counterparties to satisfy their financial and performance commitments;
•
factors that could lead to impairment of long-lived assets; and
•
the ability to successfully complete strategic transactions Entergy may undertake, including mergers, acquisitions, or divestitures, regulatory or other limitations imposed as a result of any such strategic transaction, and the success of the business following any such strategic transaction.
iv
Table of Contents
DEFINITIONS
Certain abbreviations or acronyms used in the text and notes are defined below:
Abbreviation or Acronym
Term
ALJ
Administrative Law Judge
ANO 1 and 2
Units 1 and 2 of Arkansas Nuclear One (nuclear), owned by Entergy Arkansas
APSC
Arkansas Public Service Commission
ASU
Accounting Standards Update issued by the FASB
Board
Board of Directors of Entergy Corporation
Cajun
Cajun Electric Power Cooperative, Inc.
capacity factor
Actual plant output divided by maximum potential plant output for the period
City Council
Council of the City of New Orleans, Louisiana
D.C. Circuit
U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit
DOE
United States Department of Energy
Entergy
Entergy Corporation and its direct and indirect subsidiaries
Entergy Corporation
Entergy Corporation, a Delaware corporation
Entergy Gulf States Louisiana
Entergy Gulf States Louisiana, L.L.C., a Louisiana limited liability company formally created as part of the jurisdictional separation of Entergy Gulf States, Inc. and the successor company to Entergy Gulf States, Inc. for financial reporting purposes. The term is also used to refer to the Louisiana jurisdictional business of Entergy Gulf States, Inc., as the context requires. Effective October 1, 2015, the business of Entergy Gulf States Louisiana was combined with Entergy Louisiana.
Entergy Louisiana
Entergy Louisiana, LLC, a Texas limited liability company formally created as part of the combination of Entergy Gulf States Louisiana and the company formerly known as Entergy Louisiana, LLC (Old Entergy Louisiana) into a single public utility company and the successor to Old Entergy Louisiana for financial reporting purposes.
Entergy Texas
Entergy Texas, Inc., a Texas corporation formally created as part of the jurisdictional separation of Entergy Gulf States, Inc. The term is also used to refer to the Texas jurisdictional business of Entergy Gulf States, Inc., as the context requires.
Entergy Wholesale Commodities
Entergy’s non-utility business segment primarily comprised of the ownership, operation, and decommissioning of nuclear power plants, the ownership of interests in non-nuclear power plants, and the sale of the electric power produced by its operating power plants to wholesale customers
EPA
United States Environmental Protection Agency
FASB
Financial Accounting Standards Board
FERC
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
FitzPatrick
James A. FitzPatrick Nuclear Power Plant (nuclear), previously owned by an Entergy subsidiary in the Entergy Wholesale Commodities business segment, which was sold in March 2017
Form 10-K
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the calendar year ended December 31, 2016 filed with the SEC by Entergy Corporation and its Registrant Subsidiaries
Grand Gulf
Unit No. 1 of Grand Gulf Nuclear Station (nuclear), 90% owned or leased by System Energy
GWh
Gigawatt-hour(s), which equals one million kilowatt-hours
Independence
Independence Steam Electric Station (coal), owned 16% by Entergy Arkansas, 25% by Entergy Mississippi, and 7% by Entergy Power, LLC
Indian Point 2
Unit 2 of Indian Point Energy Center (nuclear), owned by an Entergy subsidiary in the Entergy Wholesale Commodities business segment
v
Table of Contents
DEFINITIONS (Continued)
Abbreviation or Acronym
Term
Indian Point 3
Unit 3 of Indian Point Energy Center (nuclear), owned by an Entergy subsidiary in the Entergy Wholesale Commodities business segment
IRS
Internal Revenue Service
ISO
Independent System Operator
kW
Kilowatt, which equals one thousand watts
kWh
Kilowatt-hour(s)
LPSC
Louisiana Public Service Commission
MISO
Midcontinent Independent System Operator, Inc., a regional transmission organization
MMBtu
One million British Thermal Units
MPSC
Mississippi Public Service Commission
MW
Megawatt(s), which equals one thousand kilowatts
MWh
Megawatt-hour(s)
Net debt to net capital ratio
Gross debt less cash and cash equivalents divided by total capitalization less cash and cash equivalents
Net MW in operation
Installed capacity owned and operated
NRC
Nuclear Regulatory Commission
NYPA
New York Power Authority
Palisades
Palisades Nuclear Plant (nuclear), owned by an Entergy subsidiary in the Entergy Wholesale Commodities business segment
Parent & Other
The portions of Entergy not included in the Utility or Entergy Wholesale Commodities segments, primarily consisting of the activities of the parent company, Entergy Corporation
Pilgrim
Pilgrim Nuclear Power Station (nuclear), owned by an Entergy subsidiary in the Entergy Wholesale Commodities business segment
PPA
Purchased power agreement or power purchase agreement
PUCT
Public Utility Commission of Texas
Registrant Subsidiaries
Entergy Arkansas, Inc., Entergy Louisiana, LLC, Entergy Mississippi, Inc., Entergy New Orleans, Inc., Entergy Texas, Inc., and System Energy Resources, Inc.
River Bend
River Bend Station (nuclear), owned by Entergy Louisiana
SEC
Securities and Exchange Commission
System Agreement
Agreement, effective January 1, 1983, as modified, among the Utility operating companies relating to the sharing of generating capacity and other power resources. The agreement terminated effective August 2016.
System Energy
System Energy Resources, Inc.
TWh
Terawatt-hour(s), which equals one billion kilowatt-hours
Unit Power Sales Agreement
Agreement, dated as of June 10, 1982, as amended and approved by FERC, among Entergy Arkansas, Entergy Louisiana, Entergy Mississippi, Entergy New Orleans, and System Energy, relating to the sale of capacity and energy from System Energy’s share of Grand Gulf
Utility
Entergy’s business segment that generates, transmits, distributes, and sells electric power, with a small amount of natural gas distribution
Utility operating companies
Entergy Arkansas, Entergy Louisiana, Entergy Mississippi, Entergy New Orleans, and Entergy Texas
vi
Table of Contents
DEFINITIONS (Concluded)
Abbreviation or Acronym
Term
Vermont Yankee
Vermont Yankee Nuclear Power Station (nuclear), owned by an Entergy subsidiary in the Entergy Wholesale Commodities business segment, which ceased power production in December 2014
Waterford 3
Unit No. 3 (nuclear) of the Waterford Steam Electric Station, 100% owned or leased by Entergy Louisiana
weather-adjusted usage
Electric usage excluding the effects of deviations from normal weather
White Bluff
White Bluff Steam Electric Generating Station, 57% owned by Entergy Arkansas
vii
Table of Contents
ENTERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
Entergy operates primarily through two business segments: Utility and Entergy Wholesale Commodities.
•
The
Utility
business segment includes the generation, transmission, distribution, and sale of electric power in portions of Arkansas, Mississippi, Texas, and Louisiana, including the City of New Orleans; and operation of a small natural gas distribution business.
•
The
Entergy Wholesale Commodities
business segment includes the ownership, operation, and decommissioning of nuclear power plants located in the northern United States and the sale of the electric power produced by its operating plants to wholesale customers. Entergy Wholesale Commodities also provides services to other nuclear power plant owners and owns interests in non-nuclear power plants that sell the electric power produced by those plants to wholesale customers. See “
Entergy Wholesale Commodities Exit from the Merchant Power Business
” below and in the Form 10-K for discussion of the operation and planned shutdown or sale of each of the Entergy Wholesale Commodities nuclear power plants.
See Note 7 to the financial statements herein for financial information regarding Entergy’s business segments.
Results of Operations
Third Quarter
2017
Compared to
Third Quarter
2016
Following are income statement variances for Utility, Entergy Wholesale Commodities, Parent & Other, and Entergy comparing the
third quarter
2017
to the
third quarter
2016
showing how much the line item increased or (decreased) in comparison to the prior period:
Utility
Entergy
Wholesale
Commodities
Parent &
Other (a)
Entergy
(In Thousands)
3rd Quarter 2016 Consolidated Net Income (Loss)
$447,782
$8,221
($62,799
)
$393,204
Net revenue (operating revenue less fuel expense, purchased power, and other regulatory charges/credits)
(47,749
)
(4,637
)
(4
)
(52,390
)
Other operation and maintenance
6,617
(37,089
)
1,831
(28,641
)
Asset write-offs, impairments, and related charges
—
(2,620
)
—
(2,620
)
Taxes other than income taxes
16,064
(5,694
)
28
10,398
Depreciation and amortization
14,849
(751
)
242
14,340
Other income
19,674
16,574
(1,624
)
34,624
Interest expense
(2,184
)
(41
)
1,929
(296
)
Other expenses
5,584
(8,860
)
—
(3,276
)
Income taxes
(24,956
)
19,448
(10,603
)
(16,111
)
3rd Quarter 2017 Consolidated Net Income (Loss)
$403,733
$55,765
($57,854
)
$401,644
(a)
Parent & Other includes eliminations, which are primarily intersegment activity.
Refer to “
ENTERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES -
SELECTED OPERATING RESULTS
” for further information with respect to operating statistics.
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Entergy Corporation and Subsidiaries
Management's Financial Discussion and Analysis
Net Revenue
Utility
Following is an analysis of the change in net revenue comparing the
third quarter
2017
to the
third quarter
2016
:
Amount
(In Millions)
2016 net revenue
$1,859
Volume/weather
(68
)
Retail electric price
17
Other
3
2017 net revenue
$1,811
The volume/weather variance is primarily due to the effect of less favorable weather, partially offset by an increase in industrial, residential, and commercial usage. The increase in industrial usage is primarily due to new customers in the primary metals industry, expansion projects in the chemicals industry, and an increase in demand for existing customers in the chemicals, petroleum refining, and industrial gases industries.
The retail electric price variance is primarily due to:
•
the implementation of formula rate plan rates at Entergy Arkansas, as approved by the APSC, effective with the first billing cycle of January 2017;
•
the implementation of the transmission cost recovery factor rider at Entergy Texas, effective September 2016, and an increase in the transmission cost recovery factor rider rate, effective March 2017, as approved by the PUCT; and
•
the timing of recovery of purchased power capacity costs at Entergy Louisiana through the formula rate plan mechanism.
The retail electric price variance was partially offset by:
•
lower storm damage rider revenues at Entergy Mississippi due to resetting the storm damage provision to zero beginning with the November 2016 billing cycle. Entergy Mississippi resumed billing the storm damage rider effective with the September 2017 billing cycle; and
•
a decrease in the purchased power and capacity acquisition cost recovery rider at Entergy New Orleans primarily due to credits to customers as part of the Entergy New Orleans internal restructuring agreement in principle, effective with the first billing cycle of June 2017.
See Note 2 to the financial statements herein and in the Form 10-K for further discussion of the rate proceedings.
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Entergy Corporation and Subsidiaries
Management's Financial Discussion and Analysis
Entergy Wholesale Commodities
Following is an analysis of the change in net revenue comparing the
third quarter
2017
to the
third quarter
2016
:
Amount
(In Millions)
2016 net revenue
$396
FitzPatrick sale
(50
)
Nuclear fuel expenses
40
Other
6
2017 net revenue
$392
As shown in the table above, net revenue for Entergy Wholesale Commodities decreased by $4 million in the
third quarter
2017
as compared to the
third quarter
2016
primarily due to the absence of net revenue from the FitzPatrick plant after it was sold to Exelon in March 2017, partially offset by a decrease in nuclear fuel expenses primarily related to the impairments of the Indian Point 2, Indian Point 3, and Palisades plants and related assets. See Note 13 to the financial statements herein for discussion of the sale of FitzPatrick. See Note 14 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for discussion of the impairments and related charges.
Following are key performance measures for Entergy Wholesale Commodities for the
third quarter
2017
and
2016
:
2017
2016
Owned capacity (MW) (a)
3,962
4,880
GWh billed
8,234
9,372
Entergy Wholesale Commodities Nuclear Fleet
(b)
Capacity factor
98%
90%
GWh billed
7,633
8,674
Average energy and capacity revenue per MWh
$48.82
$47.41
(a)
The reduction in owned capacity is due to Entergy’s sale of the 838 MW FitzPatrick plant to Exelon in March 2017 and Entergy’s sale of its 50% membership interest in Top Deer Wind Ventures, LLC in November 2016. See Note 13 to the financial statements herein for discussion of the sale of FitzPatrick and Note 14 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for discussion of the Top Deer Wind Ventures, LLC sale.
(b)
The Entergy Wholesale Commodities nuclear power plants had no refueling outage days in the third quarter 2017 and the third quarter 2016.
Other Income Statement Items
Utility
Other operation and maintenance expenses increased from $592 million for the
third quarter
2016
to $599 million for the
third quarter
2017
primarily due to:
•
the effects of recording in third quarter 2016 final court decisions in several lawsuits against the DOE related to spent nuclear fuel storage costs. The damages awarded included the reimbursement of approximately $14 million of spent nuclear fuel storage costs previously recorded as other operation and maintenance expense. See Note 8 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for discussion of the spent nuclear fuel litigation; and
•
an increase of $11 million in nuclear generation expenses primarily due to higher nuclear labor costs, including contract labor, to position the nuclear fleet to meet its operational goals. See “
MANAGEMENT’S
3
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Entergy Corporation and Subsidiaries
Management's Financial Discussion and Analysis
FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS –
Nuclear Matters
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of the increased operating costs to position the nuclear fleet to meet its operational goals.
The increase was partially offset by a decrease of $13 million in fossil-fueled generation expenses primarily due to lower long-term service agreement costs and
a decrease of $5 million in storm damage provisions. See Note 2 to the financial statements herein and in the Form 10-K for a discussion on storm cost recovery.
Taxes other than income taxes increased primarily due to increases in ad valorem taxes and local franchise taxes. Ad valorem taxes increased primarily due to higher assessments, including the assessment of ad valorem taxes on the Union Power Station beginning in 2017. Local franchise taxes increased primarily due to higher revenues in 2017 as compared to 2016.
Depreciation and amortization expenses increased primarily due to additions to plant in service and the effects of recording in the third quarter 2016 final court decisions in several lawsuits against the DOE related to spent nuclear fuel storage costs. The damages awarded included the reimbursement of approximately $8 million of spent nuclear fuel storage costs previously recorded as depreciation expense. See Note 8 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for discussion of the spent nuclear fuel litigation.
Other income increased primarily due to an increase in the allowance for equity funds used during construction due to higher construction work in progress in 2017, including the St. Charles Power Station project, and higher realized gains in the third quarter 2017 as compared to the third quarter 2016 on the decommissioning trust fund investments.
Entergy Wholesale Commodities
Other operation and maintenance expenses decreased from $236 million for the third quarter 2016 to $199 million for the third quarter 2017 primarily due to the absence of other operation and maintenance expenses from the FitzPatrick plant after it was sold to Exelon in March 2017. See Note 13 to the financial statements herein for discussion of the sale of FitzPatrick.
Other income increased primarily due to higher realized gains in the third quarter 2017 as compared to the third quarter 2016 on the decommissioning trust fund investments.
Income Taxes
The effective income tax rate was 37.6% for the
third quarter
2017
. The difference in the effective income tax rate for the
third quarter
2017
versus the federal statutory rate of 35% was primarily due to state income taxes, partially offset by book and tax differences related to the allowance for equity funds used during construction.
The effective income tax rate was 39.6% for the
third quarter
2016
. The difference in the effective income tax rate for the
third quarter
2016
versus the federal statutory rate of 35% was primarily due to state income taxes, a valuation allowance recorded on a deferred tax asset, and certain book and tax differences related to utility plant items, partially offset by flow-through tax accounting.
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Entergy Corporation and Subsidiaries
Management's Financial Discussion and Analysis
Nine Months Ended
September 30, 2017
Compared to
Nine Months Ended
September 30, 2016
Following are income statement variances for Utility, Entergy Wholesale Commodities, Parent & Other, and Entergy comparing the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
to the
nine months ended
September 30, 2016
showing how much the line item increased or (decreased) in comparison to the prior period:
Utility
Entergy
Wholesale
Commodities
Parent &
Other (a)
Entergy
(In Thousands)
2016 Consolidated Net Income (Loss)
$1,027,751
$338,651
($165,367
)
$1,201,035
Net revenue (operating revenue less fuel expense, purchased power, and other regulatory charges/credits)
6,657
(19,524
)
(17
)
(12,884
)
Other operation and maintenance
87,381
78,114
2,534
168,029
Asset write-offs, impairments, and related charges
—
388,414
—
388,414
Taxes other than income taxes
34,270
(13,702
)
419
20,987
Depreciation and amortization
40,131
1,837
25
41,993
Gain on sale of assets
—
16,270
—
16,270
Other income
45,956
73,341
(971
)
118,326
Interest expense
(15,417
)
(81
)
5,474
(10,024
)
Other expenses
15,924
32,794
—
48,718
Income taxes
100,337
(331,093
)
(5,678
)
(236,434
)
2017 Consolidated Net Income (Loss)
$817,738
$252,455
($169,129
)
$901,064
(a)
Parent & Other includes eliminations, which are primarily intersegment activity.
Refer to “
ENTERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES -
SELECTED OPERATING RESULTS
” for further information with respect to operating statistics.
Results of operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 include $422 million ($274 million net-of-tax) of impairment charges due to costs being charged to expense as incurred as a result of the impaired value of the Entergy Wholesale Commodities nuclear plants’ long-lived assets due to the significantly reduced remaining estimated operating lives associated with management’s strategy to reduce the size of the Entergy Wholesale Commodities’ merchant fleet and a reduction of income tax expense, net of unrecognized tax benefits, of $373 million as a result of tax elections to treat as corporations for federal income tax purposes two subsidiaries that each own an Entergy Wholesale Commodities nuclear power plant. See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
-
Entergy Wholesale Commodities Exit from the Merchant Power Business
” below and in the Form 10-K for a discussion of management’s strategy to reduce the size of the Entergy Wholesale Commodities’ merchant fleet and Note 10 to the financial statements herein for additional discussion of the tax elections.
Results of operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 include a reduction of income tax expense, net of unrecognized tax benefits, of $238 million as a result of a tax election to treat as a corporation for federal income tax purposes a subsidiary that owns an Entergy Wholesale Commodities nuclear power plant; income tax benefits as a result of the settlement of the 2010-2011 IRS audit, including a $75 million tax benefit recognized by Entergy Louisiana related to the treatment of the Vidalia purchased power agreement and a $54 million net benefit recognized by Entergy Louisiana related to the treatment of proceeds received in 2010 for the financing of Hurricane Gustav and Hurricane Ike storm costs pursuant to Louisiana Act 55; and a reduction in expenses of $70 million ($44 million net-of-tax) due to the effects of recording in 2016 the final court decisions in several lawsuits against the DOE related to spent nuclear fuel storage costs. See Note 3 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for additional discussion of the income tax items and Note 8 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for discussion of the DOE litigation.
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Entergy Corporation and Subsidiaries
Management's Financial Discussion and Analysis
Net Revenue
Utility
Following is an analysis of the change in net revenue comparing the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
to the
nine months ended
September 30, 2016
:
Amount
(In Millions)
2016 net revenue
$4,758
Retail electric price
62
Grand Gulf recovery
38
Louisiana Act 55 financing savings obligation
17
Volume/weather
(99
)
Other
(11
)
2017 net revenue
$4,765
The retail electric price variance is primarily due to:
•
an increase in base rates effective February 24, 2016 and the implementation of formula rate plan rates effective with the first billing cycle of January 2017 at Entergy Arkansas, each as approved by the APSC. A significant portion of the base rate increase was related to the purchase of Power Block 2 of the Union Power Station in March 2016;
•
the implementation of the transmission cost recovery factor rider at Entergy Texas, effective September 2016, and an increase in the transmission cost recovery factor rider rate, effective March 2017, as approved by the PUCT;
•
an increase in rates at Entergy Mississippi, as approved by the MPSC, effective with the first billing cycle of July 2016; and
•
the timing of recovery of purchased power capacity costs at Entergy Louisiana through the formula rate plan mechanism.
The retail electric price variance is partially offset by a decrease in formula rate plan revenues for Entergy Louisiana, implemented with the first billing cycle of September 2016, to reflect the effects of the termination of the System Agreement.
See Note 2 to the financial statements herein and in the Form 10-K for further discussion of the rate proceedings. See Note 14 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for discussion of the Union Power Station purchase.
The Grand Gulf recovery variance is primarily due to increased recovery of higher operating costs.
The Louisiana Act 55 financing savings obligation variance results from a regulatory charge in 2016 for tax savings to be shared with customers per an agreement approved by the LPSC. The tax savings resulted from the 2010-2011 IRS audit settlement on the treatment of the Louisiana Act 55 financing of storm costs for Hurricane Gustav and Hurricane Ike. See Note 3 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for additional discussion of the settlement and benefit sharing.
The volume/weather variance is primarily due to the effect of less favorable weather on residential and commercial sales, partially offset by an increase in industrial usage. The increase in industrial usage is primarily due to new customers in the primary metals and industrial gases industries, an increase in demand for existing customers in the chemicals industry, and expansion projects in the chemicals industry.
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Entergy Corporation and Subsidiaries
Management's Financial Discussion and Analysis
Entergy Wholesale Commodities
Following is an analysis of the change in net revenue comparing the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
to the
nine months ended
September 30, 2016
:
Amount
(In Millions)
2016 net revenue
$1,155
FitzPatrick sale
(122
)
Nuclear volume
(76
)
Nuclear fuel expenses
76
FitzPatrick reimbursement agreement
98
Other
5
2017 net revenue
$1,136
As shown in the table above, net revenue for Entergy Wholesale Commodities decreased by $19 million in the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
as compared to the
nine months ended
September 30, 2016
primarily due to the absence of net revenue from the FitzPatrick plant after it was sold to Exelon in March 2017 and lower volume in the Entergy Wholesale Commodities nuclear fleet resulting from more outage days in the nine months ended September 30, 2017 as compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2016. See Note 13 to the financial statements herein for discussion of the sale of FitzPatrick. The decrease was partially offset by a decrease in nuclear fuel expenses primarily related to the impairments of the Indian Point 2, Indian Point 3, and Palisades plants and related assets and an increase resulting from the reimbursement agreement with Exelon pursuant to which Exelon reimbursed Entergy for specified out-of-pocket costs associated with preparing for the refueling and operation of FitzPatrick that otherwise would have been avoided had Entergy shut down FitzPatrick in January 2017. Revenues received from Exelon in 2017 under the reimbursement agreement were offset in other operation and maintenance expenses and taxes other than income taxes and had no effect on net income. See Note 14 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for discussion of the impairments and related charges. See Note 13 to the financial statements herein and Note 14 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for further discussion of the reimbursement agreement.
Following are key performance measures for Entergy Wholesale Commodities for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
and
2016
:
2017
2016
Owned capacity (MW) (a)
3,962
4,880
GWh billed
22,616
26,484
Entergy Wholesale Commodities Nuclear Fleet
Capacity factor
79%
85%
GWh billed
20,861
24,670
Average energy and capacity revenue per MWh
$51.82
$48.99
Refueling outage days:
FitzPatrick
42
—
Indian Point 2
—
102
Indian Point 3
66
—
Pilgrim
43
—
Palisades
27
—
(a)
The reduction in owned capacity is due to Entergy’s sale of the 838 MW FitzPatrick plant to Exelon in March 2017 and Entergy’s sale of its 50% membership interest in Top Deer Wind Ventures, LLC in November 2016. See Note 13 to the financial statements herein for discussion of the sale of FitzPatrick and Note 14 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for discussion of the Top Deer Wind Ventures, LLC sale.
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Management's Financial Discussion and Analysis
Other Income Statement Items
Utility
Other operation and maintenance expenses increased from $1,688 million for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2016
to $1,776 million for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
primarily due to:
•
an increase of $27 million in nuclear generation expenses primarily due to higher nuclear labor costs, including contract labor, to position the nuclear fleet to meet its operational goals and additional training and initiatives to support management’s operational goals at Grand Gulf, partially offset by a decrease in regulatory compliance costs. The decrease in regulatory compliance costs is primarily related to additional NRC inspection activities in 2016 as a result of the NRC’s March 2015 decision to move ANO into the “multiple/repetitive degraded cornerstone column” of the NRC’s reactor oversight process action matrix. See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS –
Nuclear Matters
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of the increased operating costs to position the nuclear fleet to meet its operational goals. See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
-
ANO Damage, Outage, and NRC Reviews
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of the ANO stator incident and subsequent NRC reviews;
•
the deferral in the first quarter 2016 of $7.7 million of previously-incurred costs related to ANO post-Fukushima compliance and $9.9 million of previously-incurred costs related to ANO flood barrier compliance, as approved by the APSC in February 2016 as part of the Entergy Arkansas 2015 rate case settlement. These costs are being amortized over a ten-year period beginning March 2016. See Note 2 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for further discussion of the rate case settlement;
•
the effects of recording in 2016 final court decisions in several lawsuits against the DOE related to spent nuclear fuel storage costs. The damages awarded included the reimbursement of approximately $16 million of spent nuclear fuel storage costs previously recorded as other operation and maintenance expense. See Note 8 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for discussion of the spent nuclear fuel litigation;
•
an increase of $13 million in transmission and distribution expenses due to higher vegetation maintenance costs; and
•
an increase of $11 million in compensation and benefits costs primarily due to a downward revision to estimated incentive compensation expense in the first quarter 2016.
The increase was partially offset by a decrease of $11 million in fossil-fueled generation expenses primarily due to lower long-term service agreement costs
.
Taxes other than income taxes increased primarily due to increases in ad valorem taxes and local franchise taxes. Ad valorem taxes increased primarily due to higher assessments, including the assessment of ad valorem taxes on the Union Power Station beginning in 2017. Local franchise taxes increased primarily due to higher revenues in 2017 as compared to 2016.
Depreciation and amortization expenses increased primarily due to additions to plant in service, including the Union Power Station purchased in March 2016. See Note 14 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for discussion of the Union Power Station purchase.
Other income increased primarily due to higher realized gains in 2017 as compared to the same period in 2016 on the decommissioning trust fund investments, including portfolio rebalancing in second quarter 2017, and an increase in the allowance for equity funds used during construction due to higher construction work in progress in 2017, including the St. Charles Power Station project.
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Entergy Corporation and Subsidiaries
Management's Financial Discussion and Analysis
Entergy Wholesale Commodities
Other operation and maintenance expenses increased from $621 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 to $698 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 primarily due to:
•
FitzPatrick’s nuclear refueling outage expenses and expenditures for capital assets being classified as other operation and maintenance expenses as a result of the sale and reimbursement agreements Entergy entered into with Exelon. These costs would have not been incurred absent the sale agreement with Exelon because Entergy planned to shut the plant down in January 2017. The expenses were offset by revenue realized pursuant to the reimbursement agreement and had no effect on net income. See Note 13 to the financial statements herein and Note 14 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for discussion of the reimbursement agreement;
•
the effect of recording in 2016 final court decisions in litigation against the DOE for the reimbursement of spent nuclear fuel storage costs, which reduced other operation and maintenance expenses in 2016 by $42 million. See Note 8 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for discussion of the DOE litigation; and
•
an increase of $36 million in severance and retention costs in 2017 as compared to the same period in 2016 due to management’s strategy to reduce the size of the Entergy Wholesale Commodities’ merchant fleet. See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
-
Entergy Wholesale Commodities Exit from the Merchant Power Business
” below and in the Form 10-K for a discussion of management’s strategy to reduce the size of the Entergy Wholesale Commodities’ merchant fleet.
The increase was partially offset by a decrease due to the absence of other operation and maintenance expenses from the FitzPatrick plant after it was sold to Exelon in March 2017. See Note 13 to the financial statements herein for discussion of the sale of FitzPatrick.
The asset write-offs, impairments, and related charges variance is primarily due to $422 million ($274 million net-of-tax) of impairment charges in the nine months ended September 30, 2017 due to nuclear fuel spending, nuclear refueling outage spending, and expenditures for capital assets being charged to expense as incurred as a result of the impaired value of the Entergy Wholesale Commodities nuclear plants’ long-lived assets due to the significantly reduced remaining estimated operating lives associated with management’s strategy to reduce the size of the Entergy Wholesale Commodities’ merchant fleet. The increase in impairment charges in 2017 is primarily due to management’s decisions in the fourth quarter 2016 and the resulting impairments of the Indian Point 2, Indian Point 3, and Palisades plants and the timing of nuclear fuel spending and nuclear refueling outage spending for the impaired Pilgrim plant. See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS -
Entergy Wholesale Commodities Exit from the Merchant Power Business
” below and in the Form 10-K for a discussion of management’s strategy to reduce the size of the Entergy Wholesale Commodities’ merchant fleet.
Taxes other than income taxes decreased primarily due to the absence of ad valorem taxes and employment taxes from the FitzPatrick plant after it was sold to Exelon in March 2017. See Note 13 to the financial statements herein for discussion of the sale of FitzPatrick.
The gain on sale of assets resulted from the sale in March 2017 of the 838 MW FitzPatrick plant to Exelon. Entergy sold the FitzPatrick plant for approximately $110 million, including the $10 million non-refundable signing fee paid in August 2016, in addition to the assumption by Exelon of certain liabilities related to the FitzPatrick plant, resulting in a pre-tax gain of $16 million on the sale. See Note 13 to the financial statements herein for a discussion of the sale of FitzPatrick.
Other income increased primarily due to higher realized gains in 2017 as compared to the same period in 2016 on the decommissioning trust fund investments, including the result of portfolio rebalancing in second quarter 2017, and the increase in value from year-end realized upon the receipt from NYPA of the decommissioning trust funds for the Indian Point 3 and FitzPatrick plants in January 2017. See Note 9 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for discussion of the trust transfer agreement with NYPA.
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Management's Financial Discussion and Analysis
Other expenses increased primarily due to increases in decommissioning expenses primarily as a result of a trust transfer agreement Entergy entered into with NYPA in August 2016, which closed in January 2017, to transfer the decommissioning trusts and decommissioning liabilities for the Indian Point 3 and FitzPatrick plants to Entergy and revisions to the estimated decommissioning cost liabilities for the Entergy Wholesale Commodities’ Indian Point 2 and Palisades plants as a result of revised decommissioning cost studies in the fourth quarter 2016. See Note 9 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for discussion of the trust transfer agreement with NYPA and the revised decommissioning cost studies. The increase was partially offset by a reduction in deferred refueling outage amortization costs related to the impairments of the Indian Point 2, Indian Point 3, and Palisades plants and related assets. See Note 14 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for discussion of the impairments and related charges.
Income Taxes
The effective income tax rate was (10.8%) for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
. The difference in the effective income tax rate for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
versus the federal statutory rate of 35% was primarily due to tax elections to treat as corporations for federal income tax purposes two subsidiaries that each own an Entergy Wholesale Commodities nuclear power plant, which resulted in both permanent and temporary differences under the income tax accounting standards, and the re-determined tax basis of the FitzPatrick plant as a result of its sale on March 31, 2017, partially offset by state income taxes. See Note 10 to the financial statements herein for further discussion of the tax elections and the tax benefit associated with the sale of FitzPatrick.
The effective income tax rate was 11% for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2016
. The difference in the effective income tax rate for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2016
versus the federal statutory rate of 35% was primarily due to a tax election to treat as a corporation for federal income tax purposes a subsidiary that owns an Entergy Wholesale Commodities nuclear power plant, which resulted in reduced income tax expense and the reversal of a portion of the provision for uncertain tax positions as a result of the settlement of the 2010-2011 IRS audit in the second quarter 2016, partially offset by state income taxes. See Note 3 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for additional discussion of the tax election and the tax settlements.
ANO Damage, Outage, and NRC Reviews
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS -
ANO Damage, Outage, and NRC Reviews
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of the ANO stator incident, subsequent NRC reviews, and the deferral of replacement power costs.
Entergy Wholesale Commodities Exit from the Merchant Power Business
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS -
Entergy Wholesale Commodities Exit from the Merchant Power Business
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of management’s strategy to reduce the size of the Entergy Wholesale Commodities’ merchant fleet. Following are updates to that discussion.
Sale of FitzPatrick
In March 2017 the NRC approved the sale of the FitzPatrick plant, an 838 MW nuclear power plant owned by Entergy in the Entergy Wholesale Commodities segment, to Exelon. The transaction closed in March 2017 for a purchase price of $110 million, including the $10 million non-refundable signing fee paid in August 2016, in addition to the assumption by Exelon of certain liabilities related to the FitzPatrick plant, resulting in a pre-tax gain on the sale of $16 million. At the transaction close, Exelon paid an additional $8 million for the proration of certain expenses prepaid by Entergy. See Note 13 to the financial statements herein for further discussion of the sale of FitzPatrick. As discussed in Note 10 to the financial statements herein, as a result of the sale of FitzPatrick, Entergy re-determined the plant’s tax basis, resulting in a $44 million income tax benefit in the first quarter 2017.
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Entergy Corporation and Subsidiaries
Management's Financial Discussion and Analysis
Planned Shutdown of Palisades
As discussed in the Form 10-K, most of the Palisades plant output is sold under a power purchase agreement (PPA) with Consumers Energy, entered into when the plant was acquired in 2007, that is scheduled to expire in April 2022. The PPA prices currently exceed market prices and escalate each year, up to $61.50/MWh in 2022. In December 2016, Entergy reached an agreement with Consumers Energy to amend the existing PPA to terminate early, on May 31, 2018. Pursuant to the agreement to amend the PPA, Consumers Energy would pay Entergy $172 million for the early termination of the PPA. The PPA amendment agreement was subject to regulatory approvals, including approval by the Michigan Public Service Commission. Separately, Entergy intended to shut down the Palisades nuclear power plant permanently on October 1, 2018, after refueling in the spring of 2017 and operating through the end of that fuel cycle.
In September 2017 the Michigan Public Service Commission issued an order conditionally approving the PPA amendment transaction, but only granting Consumers Energy recovery of $136.6 million of the $172 million requested early termination payment. As a result, Entergy and Consumers Energy agreed to terminate the PPA amendment agreement. Entergy will continue to operate Palisades under the current PPA with Consumers Energy, instead of shutting down in the fall of 2018 as previously planned. Entergy intends to shut down the Palisades nuclear power plant permanently in the spring of 2022. As a result of the change in expected operating life of the plant, the expected probability-weighted undiscounted net cash flows as of September 30, 2017 exceed the carrying value of the plant and related assets. Accordingly, nuclear fuel spending, nuclear refueling outage spending, and expenditures for capital assets incurred at Palisades after September 30, 2017 will no longer be charged to expense as incurred, but will be recorded as assets and depreciated or amortized. See Note 13 to the financial statements herein for discussion of the updated calculation of the liability amortization associated with the PPA and see Note 14 to the financial statements herein for discussion of the associated asset retirement obligation revision.
Costs Associated with Entergy Wholesale Commodities Strategic Transactions
Entergy expects to incur employee retention and severance expenses associated with management’s strategy to reduce the size of the Entergy Wholesale Commodities’ merchant fleet of approximately $110 million in 2017, of which $89 million had been incurred as of September 30, 2017, and approximately $400 million from 2018 through the spring of 2022. In addition, Entergy Wholesale Commodities incurred impairment charges related to nuclear fuel spending, nuclear refueling outage spending, and expenditures for capital assets of $16 million for the three months ended September 30, 2017 and $422 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2017. These costs were charged to expense as incurred as a result of the impaired value of the Entergy Wholesale Commodities nuclear plants’ long-lived assets due to the significantly reduced remaining estimated operating lives associated with management’s strategy to reduce the size of the Entergy Wholesale Commodities’ merchant fleet. Entergy expects to continue to incur costs associated with nuclear fuel-related spending and expenditures for capital assets and, except for Palisades, expects to continue to charge these costs to expense as incurred because Entergy expects the value of the plants to continue to be impaired.
Entergy Wholesale Commodities Authorizations to Operate Its Nuclear Power Plants
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS -
Entergy Wholesale Commodities Authorizations to Operate Its Nuclear Power Plants
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of the NRC operating licensing proceedings for Indian Point 2 and Indian Point 3 and the settlement reached with New York State. Following are updates to that discussion.
In accordance with the settlement with New York State, in March 2017 the New York State Department of State issued a concurrence with Indian Point’s new Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA) consistency certification and, on Entergy’s motion, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of New York dismissed Entergy’s appeal related to the initial Indian Point CZMA consistency certification. Also in March 2017 the Atomic Safety and Licensing Board of the NRC granted the motion of New York State and Riverkeeper to withdraw their pending contentions on
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Management's Financial Discussion and Analysis
the NRC license renewal application and terminated the proceedings. Subsequent to the issuance of the water quality certification and water discharge permit in January 2017 by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC), in April 2017 the NYSDEC updated its environmental analysis to reflect the early shutdown per the settlement agreement. Both the water quality certification and the CZMA concurrence were filed with the NRC in April 2017.
In May 2017 a plaintiff filed two parallel state court appeals challenging New York State’s actions in signing and implementing the Indian Point settlement with Entergy on the basis that the State failed to perform sufficient environmental analysis of its actions. All signatories to the settlement agreement, including the Entergy affiliates that hold NRC licenses for Indian Point, were named.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS -
Liquidity and Capital Resources
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of Entergy’s capital structure, capital expenditure plans and other uses of capital, and sources of capital. Following are updates to that discussion.
Capital Structure
Entergy’s capitalization is balanced between equity and debt, as shown in the following table.
September 30,
2017
December 31,
2016
Debt to capital
64.6
%
64.8
%
Effect of excluding securitization bonds
(0.8
%)
(1.0
%)
Debt to capital, excluding securitization bonds (a)
63.8
%
63.8
%
Effect of subtracting cash
(0.9
%)
(2.0
%)
Net debt to net capital, excluding securitization bonds (a)
62.9
%
61.8
%
(a)
Calculation excludes the Arkansas, Louisiana, New Orleans, and Texas securitization bonds, which are non-recourse to Entergy Arkansas, Entergy Louisiana, Entergy New Orleans, and Entergy Texas, respectively.
Net debt consists of debt less cash and cash equivalents. Debt consists of notes payable and commercial paper, capital lease obligations, and long-term debt, including the currently maturing portion. Capital consists of debt, common shareholders’ equity, and subsidiaries’ preferred stock without sinking fund. Net capital consists of capital less cash and cash equivalents. Entergy uses the debt to capital ratios excluding securitization bonds in analyzing its financial condition and believes they provide useful information to its investors and creditors in evaluating Entergy’s financial condition because the securitization bonds are non-recourse to Entergy, as more fully described in Note 5 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K. Entergy also uses the net debt to net capital ratio excluding securitization bonds in analyzing its financial condition and believes it provides useful information to its investors and creditors in evaluating Entergy’s financial condition because net debt indicates Entergy’s outstanding debt position that could not be readily satisfied by cash and cash equivalents on hand.
Entergy Corporation has in place a credit facility that has a borrowing capacity of $3.5 billion and expires in August 2022. The facility permits the issuance of letters of credit against 50% of the total borrowing capacity of the credit facility. The commitment fee is currently 0.225% of the undrawn commitment amount. Commitment fees and interest rates on loans under the credit facility can fluctuate depending on the senior unsecured debt ratings of Entergy Corporation. The weighted average interest rate for the
nine months ended September 30, 2017
was
2.50%
on the drawn portion of the facility. Following is a summary of the borrowings outstanding and capacity available under the facility as of
September 30, 2017
:
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Capacity
Borrowings
Letters
of Credit
Capacity
Available
(In Millions)
$3,500
$150
$6
$3,344
A covenant in Entergy Corporation’s credit facility requires Entergy to maintain a consolidated debt ratio, as defined, of 65% or less of its total capitalization. The calculation of this debt ratio under Entergy Corporation’s credit facility is different than the calculation of the debt to capital ratio above. Entergy is currently in compliance with the covenant and expects to remain in compliance with this covenant. If Entergy fails to meet this ratio, or if Entergy or one of the Utility operating companies (except Entergy New Orleans) defaults on other indebtedness or is in bankruptcy or insolvency proceedings, an acceleration of the facility’s maturity date may occur. See Note 4 to the financial statements herein for additional discussion of the Entergy Corporation credit facility and discussion of the Registrant Subsidiaries’ credit facilities.
Entergy Nuclear Vermont Yankee has a credit facility guaranteed by Entergy Corporation with a borrowing capacity of
$100 million
, which expires in January 2018. As of September 30, 2017,
$80 million
in cash borrowings were outstanding under the credit facility. The weighted average interest rate for the nine months ended
September 30, 2017
was
2.56%
on the drawn portion of the facility. Entergy Nuclear Vermont Yankee also has an uncommitted credit facility guaranteed by Entergy Corporation with a borrowing capacity of $85 million, which expires in January 2018. As of September 30, 2017, there were no cash borrowings outstanding under the uncommitted credit facility. See Note 4 to the financial statements herein for additional discussion of the Vermont Yankee facilities.
Entergy Corporation has a commercial paper program with a Board-approved program limit of up to $1.5 billion. As of
September 30, 2017
, Entergy Corporation had
$1.3 billion
of commercial paper outstanding. The weighted-average interest rate for the nine months ended
September 30, 2017
was
1.45%
.
Capital Expenditure Plans and Other Uses of Capital
See the table and discussion in the Form 10-K under “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS -
Liquidity and Capital Resources
- Capital Expenditure Plans and Other Uses of Capital
,” that sets forth the amounts of planned construction and other capital investments by operating segment for 2017 through 2019. Following are updates to the discussion.
Preliminary Capital Investment Plan Estimate for 2018-2020
Entergy is developing its capital investment plan for 2018 through 2020 and currently anticipates that the Utility will make approximately $10.7 billion in capital investments during that period and that Entergy Wholesale Commodities will make approximately $0.4 billion in capital investments, not including nuclear fuel, during that period. The preliminary Utility estimate includes amounts associated with specific investments such as the Lake Charles Power Station, New Orleans Power Station, and Montgomery County Power Station, each discussed below, and the St. Charles Power Station; transmission projects to enhance reliability, reduce congestion, and enable economic growth; distribution spending to enhance reliability and improve service to customers, including initial investment to support advanced metering; resource planning, including potential generation projects; system improvements; investments in the nuclear fleet; and other investments. The preliminary Entergy Wholesale Commodities estimate includes amounts associated with specific investments, such as the investments in the nuclear fleet, component replacement, software and security, and dry cask storage. Estimated capital expenditures are subject to periodic review and modification and may vary based on the ongoing effects of business restructuring, regulatory constraints and requirements, environmental regulations, business opportunities, market volatility, economic trends, changes in project plans, and the ability to access capital.
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Lake Charles Power Station
In November 2016, Entergy Louisiana filed an application with the LPSC seeking certification that the public convenience and necessity would be served by the construction of the Lake Charles Power Station, a nominal 994 MW combined-cycle generating unit in Westlake, Louisiana, on land adjacent to the existing Nelson plant in Calcasieu Parish. The current estimated cost of the Lake Charles Power Station is $872 million, including estimated costs of transmission interconnection and other related costs. In May 2017 the parties to the proceeding agreed to an uncontested stipulation finding that construction of the Lake Charles Power Station is in the public interest and authorizing an in-service rate recovery plan. In July 2017 the LPSC issued an order unanimously approving the stipulation. Subject to the timely receipt of other permits and approvals, commercial operation is estimated to occur by mid-2020.
New Orleans Power Station
In June 2016, Entergy New Orleans filed an application with the City Council seeking a public interest determination and authorization to construct the New Orleans Power Station, a 226 MW advanced combustion turbine in New Orleans, Louisiana, at the site of the existing Michoud generating facility, which was retired effective May 31, 2016. In January 2017 several intervenors filed testimony opposing the construction of the New Orleans Power Station on various grounds. In July 2017, Entergy New Orleans submitted a supplemental and amending application to the City Council seeking approval to construct either the originally proposed 226 MW advanced combustion turbine, or alternatively, a 128 MW unit composed of natural gas-fired reciprocating engines and a related cost recovery plan. The application included an updated cost estimate of $232 million for the 226 MW advanced combustion turbine. The cost estimate for the alternative 128 MW unit is $210 million. In addition, the application renewed the commitment to pursue up to 100 MW of renewable resources to serve New Orleans. In August 2017 the City Council established a procedural schedule that provided for a hearing in December 2017 with a City Council decision expected in February 2018. In October 2017 several intervenors filed testimony opposing the New Orleans Power Station or, in one case, supporting a slightly smaller configuration of Entergy New Orleans’s alternative proposal. The commercial operation date is dependent on the alternative selected by the City Council and the receipt of other permits and approvals.
Montgomery County Power Station
In October 2016, Entergy Texas filed an application with the PUCT seeking certification that the public convenience and necessity would be served by the construction of the Montgomery County Power Station, a nominal 993 MW combined-cycle generating unit in Montgomery County, Texas on land adjacent to the existing Lewis Creek plant. The current estimated cost of the Montgomery County Power Station is $937 million, including estimated costs of transmission interconnection and network upgrades and other related costs. The independent monitor, who oversaw the request for proposal process, filed testimony and a report affirming that the Montgomery County Power Station was selected through an objective and fair request for proposal process that showed no undue preference to any proposal. In June 2017, parties to the proceeding filed an unopposed stipulation and settlement agreement. The stipulation contemplates that Entergy Texas’s level of cost-recovery for generation construction costs for Montgomery County Power Station is capped at $831 million, subject to certain exclusions such as force majeure events. The costs of the transmission interconnection and network upgrades and other related costs included in the total current estimated cost of the Montgomery County Power Station are not subject to the $831 million cap. Also in June 2017, the ALJ issued a proposed order and remanded the proceeding to the PUCT for final decision. In July 2017 the PUCT approved the stipulation. Subject to the timely receipt of other permits and approvals, commercial operation is estimated to occur by mid-2021.
Washington Parish Energy Center
In April 2017, Entergy Louisiana signed a purchase and sale agreement with a subsidiary of Calpine Corporation for the acquisition of a peaking plant. Calpine will construct the plant, which will consist of two natural gas-fired combustion turbine units with a total nominal capacity of approximately 360 MW. The plant, named the Washington Parish Energy Center, will be located in Bogalusa, Louisiana and, subject to permits and approvals, is expected to be
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completed in 2021. Subject to regulatory approvals, Entergy Louisiana will purchase the plant once it is complete for an estimated total investment of approximately $261 million, including transmission and other related costs. In May 2017, Entergy Louisiana filed an application with the LPSC seeking certification of the plant. A procedural schedule has been established, with a hearing in April 2018.
Dividends
Declarations of dividends on Entergy’s common stock are made at the discretion of the Board. Among other things, the Board evaluates the level of Entergy’s common stock dividends based upon earnings per share from the Utility operating segment and the Parent and Other portion of the business, financial strength, and future investment opportunities. At its October 2017 meeting, the Board declared a dividend of $0.89 per share, an increase from the previous $0.87 quarterly dividend per share that Entergy has paid since the fourth quarter 2016.
Cash Flow Activity
As shown in Entergy’s Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, cash flows for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
and
2016
were as follows:
2017
2016
(In Millions)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
$1,188
$1,351
Cash flow provided by (used in):
Operating activities
1,713
2,252
Investing activities
(2,828
)
(2,983
)
Financing activities
473
687
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
(642
)
(44
)
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$546
$1,307
Operating Activities
Net cash flow provided by operating activities decreased by $539 million for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
compared to the
nine months ended
September 30, 2016
primarily due to:
•
an increase of $182 million in spending on nuclear refueling outages in 2017 as compared to the same period in 2016;
•
lower Entergy Wholesale Commodities net revenue, excluding the effect of revenues resulting from the FitzPatrick reimbursement agreement with Exelon, in 2017 as compared to the same period in 2016, as discussed above. See Note 13 to the financial statements herein and Note 14 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for discussion of the reimbursement agreement;
•
an increase of $95 million in severance and retention payments in 2017 as compared to the same period in 2016. See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
-
Entergy Wholesale Commodities Exit from the Merchant Power Business
” above and in the Form 10-K for a discussion of management’s strategy to reduce the size of the Entergy Wholesale Commodities’ merchant fleet;
•
a refund to customers in January 2017 of approximately $71 million as a result of the settlement approved by the LPSC related to the Waterford 3 replacement steam generator project. See Note 2 to the financial statements herein and in the Form 10-K for discussion of the settlement and refund;
•
proceeds of $23 million received in 2017 compared to proceeds of $64 million received in 2016 from the DOE resulting from litigation regarding spent nuclear fuel storage costs that were previously expensed. See Note 8 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for discussion of the DOE litigation; and
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•
a decrease due to the timing of recovery of fuel and purchased power costs in 2017 as compared to the same period in 2016. See Note 2 to the financial statements herein and in the Form 10-K for a discussion of fuel and purchased power cost recovery.
The decrease was partially offset by:
•
income tax refunds of $12 million in 2017 compared to income tax payments of $80 million in 2016. Entergy received income tax refunds in 2017 resulting from the carryback of net operating losses. Entergy made income tax payments in 2016 related to the effect of the 2006-2007 IRS audit and for jurisdictions that do not have net operating loss carryovers or jurisdictions in which the utilization of net operating loss carryovers are limited. See Note 3 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for a discussion of the income tax audit; and
•
a decrease of $76 million in interest paid in 2017 as compared to the same period in 2016 primarily due to an interest payment of $60 million made in March 2016 related to the purchase of a beneficial interest in the Waterford 3 leased assets. See Note 10 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for a discussion of Entergy Louisiana’s purchase of a beneficial interest in the Waterford 3 leased assets.
Investing Activities
Net cash flow used in investing activities decreased $155 million for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
compared to the
nine months ended
September 30, 2016
primarily due to the purchase of the Union Power Station for approximately $949 million in March 2016 and proceeds of $100 million from the sale in March 2017 of the FitzPatrick plant to Exelon. See Note 14 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for discussion of the Union Power Station purchase and Note 13 to the financial statements herein for a discussion of the sale of FitzPatrick.
The decrease was partially offset by:
•
an increase of $619 million in construction expenditures, primarily in the Utility business. The increase in construction expenditures in the Utility business is primarily due to an increase of $363 million in fossil-fueled generation construction expenditures primarily due to higher spending in 2017 on the St. Charles Power Station project and the Lake Charles Power Station project and a higher scope of work performed on various other fossil projects in 2017, an increase of $107 million in nuclear construction expenditures primarily due to increased spending on various nuclear projects in 2017, an increase of $87 million in distribution construction expenditures primarily due to a higher scope of work performed in 2017 as compared to the same period in 2016, an increase of $44 million in transmission construction expenditures primarily due to a higher scope of work performed in 2017 as compared to the same period in 2016, and an increase of $42 million in information technology construction expenditures primarily due to increased spending on advanced metering infrastructure;
•
$113 million in funds held on deposit for principal and interest payments due October 1, 2017;
•
proceeds of $25 million received in 2017 compared to proceeds of $122 million received in 2016 from the DOE resulting from litigation regarding spent nuclear fuel storage costs that were previously capitalized. See Note 1 to the financial statements herein and Note 8 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for discussion of the DOE litigation; and
•
fluctuations in nuclear fuel activity because of variations from year to year in the timing and pricing of fuel reload requirements in the Utility business, material and services deliveries, and the timing of cash payments during the nuclear fuel cycle.
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Financing Activities
Net cash flow provided by financing activities decreased $214 million for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
compared to the
nine months ended
September 30, 2016
primarily due to:
•
long-term debt activity using approximately $309 thousand of cash in 2017 compared to providing approximately $1,279 million of cash in 2016. Included in the long-term debt activity is $550 million in 2017 and $655 million in 2016 for the repayment of borrowings on the Entergy Corporation long-term credit facility; and
•
a decrease of $87 million in 2017 in short-term borrowings by the nuclear fuel company variable interest entities.
The decrease was partially offset by:
•
Entergy’s net issuances of $928 million of commercial paper in 2017 compared to net repayments of $158 million of commercial paper in 2016; and
•
the redemptions of Entergy Arkansas’s $75 million of 6.45% Series preferred stock and $10 million of 6.08% Series preferred stock in 2016.
For the details of Entergy’s commercial paper program, the nuclear fuel company variable interest entities’ short-term borrowings, and long-term debt see Note 4 to the financial statements herein and Note 5 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K.
Rate, Cost-recovery, and Other Regulation
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS -
Rate, Cost-recovery, and Other Regulation
” in the Form 10-K for discussions of rate regulation, federal regulation, and related regulatory proceedings.
State and Local Rate Regulation and Fuel-Cost Recovery
See Note 2 to the financial statements herein for updates to the discussion in the Form 10-K regarding these proceedings.
Federal Regulation
See Note 2 to the financial statements herein for updates to the discussion in the Form 10-K regarding federal regulatory proceedings.
Market and Credit Risk Sensitive Instruments
Commodity Price Risk
Power Generation
As a wholesale generator, Entergy Wholesale Commodities’ core business is selling energy, measured in MWh, to its customers. Entergy Wholesale Commodities enters into forward contracts with its customers and also sells energy in the day ahead or spot markets. In addition to selling the energy produced by its plants, Entergy Wholesale Commodities sells unforced capacity, which allows load-serving entities to meet specified reserve and related requirements placed on them by the ISOs in their respective areas. Entergy Wholesale Commodities’ forward physical power contracts consist of contracts to sell energy only, contracts to sell capacity only, and bundled contracts in which it sells both capacity and energy. While the terminology and payment mechanics vary in these contracts, each of these types of contracts requires Entergy Wholesale Commodities to deliver MWh of energy, make capacity available, or
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both. In addition to its forward physical power contracts, Entergy Wholesale Commodities also uses a combination of financial contracts, including swaps, collars, and options, to manage forward commodity price risk. Certain hedge volumes have price downside and upside relative to market price movement. The contracted minimum, expected value, and sensitivities are provided in the table below to show potential variations. The sensitivities may not reflect the total maximum upside potential from higher market prices. The information contained in the following table represents projections at a point in time and will vary over time based on numerous factors, such as future market prices, contracting activities, and generation. Following is a summary of Entergy Wholesale Commodities’ current forward capacity and generation contracts as well as total revenue projections based on market prices as of
September 30, 2017
(
2017
represents the remainder of the year):
Entergy Wholesale Commodities Nuclear Portfolio
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
Energy
Percent of planned generation under contract (a):
Unit-contingent (b)
88%
98%
70%
38%
70%
67%
Firm LD (c)
9%
8%
—%
—%
—%
—%
Offsetting positions (d)
(9%)
(9%)
—%
—%
—%
—%
Total
88%
97%
70%
38%
70%
67%
Planned generation (TWh) (e) (f)
7.6
28.0
25.5
17.9
9.7
2.8
Average revenue per MWh on contracted volumes:
Minimum
$39.8
$38.9
$43.3
$55.3
$59.8
$58.8
Expected based on market prices as of September 30, 2017
$39.8
$38.9
$43.3
$55.3
$59.8
$58.8
Sensitivity: -/+ $10 per MWh market price change
$39.8-$39.9
$38.9
$43.3
$55.3
$59.8
$58.8
Capacity
Percent of capacity sold forward (g):
Bundled capacity and energy contracts (h)
23%
22%
25%
36%
69%
99%
Capacity contracts (i)
38%
21%
10%
—%
—%
—%
Total
61%
43%
35%
36%
69%
99%
Planned net MW in operation (average) (f)
3,568
3,568
3,167
2,195
1,158
338
Average revenue under contract per kW per month (applies to capacity contracts only)
$8.3
$9.1
$10.5
$—
$—
$—
Total Nuclear Energy and Capacity Revenues (j)
Expected sold and market total revenue per MWh
$44.5
$46.7
$46.8
$49.1
$56.3
$47.7
Sensitivity: -/+ $10 per MWh market price change
$43.3-$45.7
$46.6-$46.7
$43.8-$49.8
$43.3-$55.0
$53.3-$59.3
$44.3-$51.0
(a)
Percent of planned generation output sold or purchased forward under contracts, forward physical contracts, forward financial contracts, or options that mitigate price uncertainty that may require regulatory approval or approval of transmission rights. Positions that are not classified as hedges are netted in the planned generation under contract.
(b)
Transaction under which power is supplied from a specific generation asset; if the asset is not operating, the seller is generally not liable to buyer for any damages. Certain unit-contingent sales include a guarantee of
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availability. Availability guarantees provide for the payment to the power purchaser of contract damages, if incurred, in the event the seller fails to deliver power as a result of the failure of the specified generation unit to generate power at or above a specified availability threshold. All of Entergy’s outstanding guarantees of availability provide for dollar limits on Entergy’s maximum liability under such guarantees.
(c)
Transaction that requires receipt or delivery of energy at a specified delivery point (usually at a market hub not associated with a specific asset) or settles financially on notional quantities; if a party fails to deliver or receive energy, defaulting party must compensate the other party as specified in the contract, a portion of which may be capped through the use of risk management products. This also includes option transactions that may expire without being exercised.
(d)
Transactions for the purchase of energy, generally to offset a Firm LD transaction.
(e)
Amount of output expected to be generated by Entergy Wholesale Commodities resources considering plant operating characteristics, outage schedules, and expected market conditions that affect dispatch.
(f)
Assumes the planned shutdown of Pilgrim on May 31, 2019, planned shutdown of Indian Point 2 on April 30, 2020, planned shutdown of Indian Point 3 on April 30, 2021, and planned shutdown of Palisades in the spring of 2022, and reflects the sale of FitzPatrick in March 2017. Assumes NRC license renewals for two units, as follows (with current license expirations in parentheses): Indian Point 2 (September 2013 and now operating under its period of extended operations while its application is pending) and Indian Point 3 (December 2015 and now operating under its period of extended operations while its application is pending). For a discussion regarding the planned shutdown of the Pilgrim, Indian Point 2, Indian Point 3, and Palisades plants, see “
Entergy Wholesale Commodities Exit from the Merchant Power Business
” above and in the Form 10-K. For a discussion regarding the license renewals for Indian Point 2 and Indian Point 3, see “
Entergy Wholesale Commodities Authorizations to Operate Its Nuclear Power Plants
” above and in the Form 10-K.
(g)
Percent of planned qualified capacity sold to mitigate price uncertainty under physical or financial transactions.
(h)
A contract for the sale of installed capacity and related energy, priced per megawatt-hour sold.
(i)
A contract for the sale of an installed capacity product in a regional market.
(j)
Includes assumptions on converting a portion of the portfolio to contracted with fixed price cost or discount and excludes non-cash revenue from the amortization of the Palisades below-market purchased power agreement, mark-to-market activity, and service revenues.
Entergy estimates that a positive $10 per MWh change in the annual average energy price in the markets in which the Entergy Wholesale Commodities nuclear business sells power, based on
September 30, 2017
market conditions, planned generation volumes, and hedged positions, would have a corresponding effect on pre-tax net income of
$9 million
for the remainder of 2017. As of
September 30, 2016
, a positive $10 per MWh change would have had a corresponding effect on pre-tax income of
$20 million
for the remainder of 2016. A negative $10 per MWh change in the annual average energy price in the markets based on
September 30, 2017
market conditions, planned generation volumes, and hedged positions, would have a corresponding effect on pre-tax net income of
($9) million
for the remainder of 2017. As of
September 30, 2016
, a negative $10 per MWh change would have had a corresponding effect on pre-tax income of
($10) million
for the remainder of 2016.
Some of the agreements to sell the power produced by Entergy Wholesale Commodities’ power plants contain provisions that require an Entergy subsidiary to provide credit support to secure its obligations under the agreements. The Entergy subsidiary is required to provide credit support based upon the difference between the current market prices and contracted power prices in the regions where Entergy Wholesale Commodities sells power. The primary form of credit support to satisfy these requirements is an Entergy Corporation guaranty. Cash and letters of credit are also acceptable forms of credit support. At
September 30, 2017
, based on power prices at that time, Entergy had liquidity exposure of
$105 million
under the guarantees in place supporting Entergy Wholesale Commodities transactions and
$9 million
of posted cash collateral. In the event of a decrease in Entergy Corporation’s credit rating to below investment grade, based on power prices as of
September 30, 2017
, Entergy would have been required to provide approximately
$50 million
of additional cash or letters of credit under some of the agreements. As of
September 30, 2017
, the liquidity exposure associated with Entergy Wholesale Commodities assurance requirements, including return of previously posted collateral from counterparties, would increase by
$295 million
for a $1 per MMBtu increase in gas prices in both the short-and long-term markets.
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As of
September 30, 2017
, substantially all of the credit exposure associated with the planned energy output under contract for Entergy Wholesale Commodities nuclear plants through 2022 is with counterparties or their guarantors that have public investment grade credit ratings.
Nuclear Matters
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS –
Nuclear Matters
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of nuclear matters. The following is an update to that discussion.
Indian Point
During the scheduled refueling and maintenance outage at Indian Point 2 in the first quarter 2016, comprehensive inspections were done as part of the aging management program that calls for an in-depth inspection of the reactor vessel. Inspections of more than 2,000 bolts in the reactor’s removable insert liner identified issues with roughly 11% of the bolts that required further analysis. Entergy replaced bolts as appropriate, and the unit returned to service in June 2016. In 2016, Entergy evaluated the scope and duration of Indian Point 3’s scheduled refueling outage planned for 2017, which began in March 2017. Based on the results of the 2016 evaluation and analysis, Entergy extended Indian Point 3’s planned 2017 outage duration. Entergy performed the same in-depth inspection of the reactor vessel at Indian Point 3 during Indian Point 3’s spring 2017 refueling and maintenance outage that it performed for Indian Point 2. Based on inspection data, Entergy replaced approximately the same number of bolts at Indian Point 3 that it replaced at Indian Point 2 before returning the plant to service in May 2017.
Critical Accounting Estimates
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS -
Critical Accounting Estimates
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of the estimates and judgments necessary in Entergy’s accounting for nuclear decommissioning costs, utility regulatory accounting, unbilled revenue, impairment of long-lived assets and trust fund investments, taxation and uncertain tax positions, qualified pension and other postretirement benefits, and other contingencies.
New Accounting Pronouncements
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS -
New Accounting Pronouncements
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of new accounting pronouncements. Following are updates to that discussion.
As discussed in the Form 10-K, ASU No. 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606)” is effective for Entergy for the first quarter 2018. Entergy has selected the modified retrospective transition method. Entergy’s evaluation of ASU 2014-09 has not identified any effects that it expects will affect materially its results of operations, financial position, or cash flows, other than changes in required financial statement disclosures. Entergy continues to monitor the development and finalization of industry-specific application guidance that could have an effect on this assessment.
As discussed in the Form 10-K, ASU No. 2016-16, “Income Taxes (Topic 740): Intra-Entity Transfers of Assets Other Than Inventory” is effective for Entergy for the first quarter 2018. The ASU requires entities to recognize the income tax consequences of intra-entity asset transfers, other than inventory, at the time the transfer occurs. Entergy is evaluating the ASU and currently expects to record a cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings as of January 1, 2018.
As discussed in the Form 10-K, ASU No. 2016-01 “Financial Instruments (Subtopic 825-10): Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities” is effective for Entergy for the first quarter 2018. Unrealized gains and losses on investments in equity securities held by the nuclear decommissioning trust funds will be required
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Management's Financial Discussion and Analysis
to be recorded in earnings rather than in other comprehensive income. In accordance with the regulatory treatment of the decommissioning trust funds of Entergy Arkansas, Entergy Louisiana, and System Energy, an offsetting amount of unrealized gains/losses will continue to be recorded in other regulatory liabilities/assets. Entergy expects to record an adjustment to retained earnings as of January 1, 2018 for the cumulative effect of the unrealized gains and losses on investments in equity securities held by the decommissioning trust funds that do not meet the criteria for regulatory accounting treatment.
In March 2017 the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-07, “Compensation - Retirement Benefits (Topic 715): Improving the Presentation of Net Periodic Pension Cost and Net Periodic Postretirement Benefit Cost.” The ASU requires entities to report the service cost component of defined benefit pension cost and postretirement benefit cost (net benefit cost) in the same line item as other compensation costs arising from services rendered during the period. The other components of net benefit cost are required to be presented in the income statement separately from the service cost component and outside a subtotal of income from operations. In addition, the ASU allows only the service cost component of net benefit cost to be eligible for capitalization. ASU 2017-07 is effective for Entergy for the first quarter 2018. Entergy does not expect ASU 2017-07 to affect materially its results of operations, financial position, or cash flows.
In August 2017 the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-12, “Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Targeted Improvements to Accounting for Hedging Activities.” The ASU makes a number of amendments to hedge accounting, most significantly changing the recognition and presentation of highly effective hedges. Upon adoption of the standard there will no longer be separate recognition or presentation of the ineffective portion of highly effective hedges. In addition, the ASU allows entities to designate a contractually-specified component as the hedged risk, simplifies the process for assessing the effectiveness of hedges, and adds additional disclosure requirements for hedges. ASU 2017-12 is effective for Entergy for the first quarter 2019, with early adoption permitted. Entergy expects that ASU 2017-12 will affect its net income by eliminating volatility in earnings related to the ineffective portion of designated hedges on nuclear power sales. Entergy is evaluating ASU 2017-12 for other effects on its results of operations, financial position, or cash flows.
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ENTERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENTS
For the Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 and 2016
(Unaudited)
Three Months Ended
Nine Months Ended
2017
2016
2017
2016
(In Thousands, Except Share Data)
OPERATING REVENUES
Electric
$2,793,798
$2,624,562
$7,056,758
$6,760,054
Natural gas
26,585
24,796
100,011
95,530
Competitive businesses
423,245
475,345
1,293,867
1,341,534
TOTAL
3,243,628
3,124,703
8,450,636
8,197,118
OPERATING EXPENSES
Operation and Maintenance:
Fuel, fuel-related expenses, and gas purchased for resale
612,950
460,990
1,426,462
1,347,422
Purchased power
408,140
375,107
1,182,404
880,102
Nuclear refueling outage expenses
43,273
56,675
124,126
154,951
Other operation and maintenance
804,535
833,176
2,492,379
2,324,350
Asset write-offs, impairments, and related charges
16,221
18,841
421,584
33,170
Decommissioning
95,392
85,266
310,062
230,519
Taxes other than income taxes
159,474
149,076
469,090
448,103
Depreciation and amortization
354,739
340,399
1,052,332
1,010,339
Other regulatory charges (credits)
19,435
33,113
(59,314
)
55,626
TOTAL
2,514,159
2,352,643
7,419,125
6,484,582
Gain on sale of assets
—
—
16,270
—
OPERATING INCOME
729,469
772,060
1,047,781
1,712,536
OTHER INCOME
Allowance for equity funds used during construction
24,338
15,451
65,722
48,242
Interest and investment income
58,332
37,534
194,978
116,662
Miscellaneous - net
(1,801
)
(6,740
)
(3,172
)
(25,702
)
TOTAL
80,869
46,245
257,528
139,202
INTEREST EXPENSE
Interest expense
178,391
174,902
522,857
526,344
Allowance for borrowed funds used during construction
(11,492
)
(7,707
)
(31,057
)
(24,520
)
TOTAL
166,899
167,195
491,800
501,824
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES
643,439
651,110
813,509
1,349,914
Income taxes
241,795
257,906
(87,555
)
148,879
CONSOLIDATED NET INCOME
401,644
393,204
901,064
1,201,035
Preferred dividend requirements of subsidiaries
3,446
5,034
10,338
15,586
NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO ENTERGY CORPORATION
$398,198
$388,170
$890,726
$1,185,449
Earnings per average common share:
Basic
$2.22
$2.17
$4.96
$6.63
Diluted
$2.21
$2.16
$4.94
$6.60
Dividends declared per common share
$0.87
$0.85
$2.61
$2.55
Basic average number of common shares outstanding
179,563,819
179,023,351
179,458,914
178,804,148
Diluted average number of common shares outstanding
180,464,069
179,990,888
180,163,074
179,490,060
See Notes to Financial Statements.
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ENTERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
For the Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 and 2016
(Unaudited)
Three Months Ended
Nine Months Ended
2017
2016
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
Net Income
$401,644
$393,204
$901,064
$1,201,035
Other comprehensive income (loss)
Cash flow hedges net unrealized gain (loss) (net of tax expense (benefit) of $7,062, $11,172, $17,387, and ($28,605))
13,213
20,972
32,634
(52,575
)
Pension and other postretirement liabilities (net of tax expense of $6,818, $4,064, $19,034, and $7,101)
12,297
5,044
31,845
17,649
Net unrealized investment gains (net of tax expense of $30,644, $20,635, $72,808, and $58,508)
33,395
21,367
82,918
65,391
Foreign currency translation (net of tax benefit of $-, $48, $403, and $688)
—
(92
)
(748
)
(1,280
)
Other comprehensive income
58,905
47,291
146,649
29,185
Comprehensive Income
460,549
440,495
1,047,713
1,230,220
Preferred dividend requirements of subsidiaries
3,446
5,034
10,338
15,586
Comprehensive Income Attributable to Entergy Corporation
$457,103
$435,461
$1,037,375
$1,214,634
See Notes to Financial Statements.
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ENTERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 and 2016
(Unaudited)
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Consolidated net income
$901,064
$1,201,035
Adjustments to reconcile consolidated net income to net cash flow provided by operating activities:
Depreciation, amortization, and decommissioning, including nuclear fuel amortization
1,561,565
1,548,872
Deferred income taxes, investment tax credits, and non-current taxes accrued
(90,607
)
119,603
Asset write-offs, impairments, and related charges
241,838
33,170
Gain on sale of assets
(16,270
)
—
Changes in working capital:
Receivables
(198,029
)
(270,847
)
Fuel inventory
20,746
28,900
Accounts payable
(75,962
)
99,933
Taxes accrued
66,895
29,429
Interest accrued
(6,111
)
(13,487
)
Deferred fuel costs
(117,636
)
(159,592
)
Other working capital accounts
(81,779
)
(78,553
)
Changes in provisions for estimated losses
(10,073
)
2,760
Changes in other regulatory assets
117,430
164,716
Changes in other regulatory liabilities
22,124
110,999
Changes in pensions and other postretirement liabilities
(354,297
)
(305,200
)
Other
(268,147
)
(259,343
)
Net cash flow provided by operating activities
1,712,751
2,252,395
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Construction/capital expenditures
(2,622,104
)
(2,003,427
)
Allowance for equity funds used during construction
66,437
48,807
Nuclear fuel purchases
(226,054
)
(160,343
)
Payment for purchase of plant
—
(949,329
)
Proceeds from sale of assets
100,000
—
Insurance proceeds received for property damages
26,157
—
Changes in securitization account
(6,494
)
(3,911
)
Payments to storm reserve escrow account
(1,925
)
(1,203
)
Receipts from storm reserve escrow account
8,836
—
Decreases (increases) in other investments
(112,217
)
12,374
Litigation proceeds for reimbursement of spent nuclear fuel storage costs
25,493
122,488
Proceeds from nuclear decommissioning trust fund sales
1,902,783
1,796,566
Investment in nuclear decommissioning trust funds
(1,988,634
)
(1,844,514
)
Net cash flow used in investing activities
(2,827,722
)
(2,982,492
)
See Notes to Financial Statements.
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ENTERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 and 2016
(Unaudited)
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Proceeds from the issuance of:
Long-term debt
1,222,606
5,508,461
Treasury stock
15,121
33,120
Retirement of long-term debt
(1,222,915
)
(4,229,599
)
Repurchase/redemption of preferred stock
—
(85,283
)
Changes in credit borrowings and commercial paper - net
937,677
(60,985
)
Other
(337
)
(6,204
)
Dividends paid:
Common stock
(468,396
)
(455,993
)
Preferred stock
(10,338
)
(16,947
)
Net cash flow provided by financing activities
473,418
686,570
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
(641,553
)
(43,527
)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
1,187,844
1,350,961
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$546,291
$1,307,434
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
Cash paid (received) during the period for:
Interest - net of amount capitalized
$507,912
$584,362
Income taxes
($11,883
)
$79,988
See Notes to Financial Statements.
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ENTERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
ASSETS
September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
CURRENT ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents:
Cash
$87,297
$129,579
Temporary cash investments
458,994
1,058,265
Total cash and cash equivalents
546,291
1,187,844
Accounts receivable:
Customer
754,484
654,995
Allowance for doubtful accounts
(13,569
)
(11,924
)
Other
152,329
158,419
Accrued unbilled revenues
420,099
368,677
Total accounts receivable
1,313,343
1,170,167
Deferred fuel costs
185,066
108,465
Fuel inventory - at average cost
158,854
179,600
Materials and supplies - at average cost
719,782
698,523
Deferred nuclear refueling outage costs
181,571
146,221
Prepayments and other
366,324
193,448
TOTAL
3,471,231
3,684,268
OTHER PROPERTY AND INVESTMENTS
Investment in affiliates - at equity
198
198
Decommissioning trust funds
6,982,928
5,723,897
Non-utility property - at cost (less accumulated depreciation)
252,621
233,641
Other
447,349
469,664
TOTAL
7,683,096
6,427,400
PROPERTY, PLANT, AND EQUIPMENT
Electric
46,190,075
45,191,216
Property under capital lease
618,321
619,527
Natural gas
435,313
413,224
Construction work in progress
2,191,320
1,378,180
Nuclear fuel
905,837
1,037,899
TOTAL PROPERTY, PLANT, AND EQUIPMENT
50,340,866
48,640,046
Less - accumulated depreciation and amortization
21,380,100
20,718,639
PROPERTY, PLANT, AND EQUIPMENT - NET
28,960,766
27,921,407
DEFERRED DEBITS AND OTHER ASSETS
Regulatory assets:
Regulatory asset for income taxes - net
775,148
761,280
Other regulatory assets (includes securitization property of $513,223 as of September 30, 2017 and $600,996 as of December 31, 2016)
4,638,615
4,769,913
Deferred fuel costs
239,248
239,100
Goodwill
377,172
377,172
Accumulated deferred income taxes
123,953
117,885
Other
129,213
1,606,009
TOTAL
6,283,349
7,871,359
TOTAL ASSETS
$46,398,442
$45,904,434
See Notes to Financial Statements.
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ENTERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Currently maturing long-term debt
$869,207
$364,900
Notes payable and commercial paper
1,352,688
415,011
Accounts payable
1,105,038
1,285,577
Customer deposits
403,262
403,311
Taxes accrued
248,009
181,114
Interest accrued
181,118
187,229
Deferred fuel costs
61,867
102,753
Obligations under capital leases
2,043
2,423
Pension and other postretirement liabilities
64,904
76,942
Other
172,735
180,836
TOTAL
4,460,871
3,200,096
NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES
Accumulated deferred income taxes and taxes accrued
7,538,630
7,495,290
Accumulated deferred investment tax credits
219,892
227,147
Obligations under capital leases
22,783
24,582
Other regulatory liabilities
1,595,053
1,572,929
Decommissioning and asset retirement cost liabilities
6,116,010
5,992,476
Accumulated provisions
471,383
481,636
Pension and other postretirement liabilities
2,693,751
3,036,010
Long-term debt (includes securitization bonds of $582,274 as of September 30, 2017 and $661,175 as of December 31, 2016)
13,977,522
14,467,655
Other
409,125
1,121,619
TOTAL
33,044,149
34,419,344
Commitments and Contingencies
Subsidiaries' preferred stock without sinking fund
203,185
203,185
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Common stock, $.01 par value, authorized 500,000,000 shares; issued 254,752,788 shares in 2017 and in 2016
2,548
2,548
Paid-in capital
5,420,608
5,417,245
Retained earnings
8,617,901
8,195,571
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
111,678
(34,971
)
Less - treasury stock, at cost (75,127,186 shares in 2017 and 75,623,363 shares in 2016)
5,462,498
5,498,584
TOTAL
8,690,237
8,081,809
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
$46,398,442
$45,904,434
See Notes to Financial Statements.
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ENTERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 and 2016
(Unaudited)
Common Shareholders’ Equity
Subsidiaries’ Preferred Stock
Common
Stock
Treasury
Stock
Paid-in
Capital
Retained Earnings
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Total
(In Thousands)
Balance at December 31, 2015
$—
$2,548
($5,552,379
)
$5,403,758
$9,393,913
$8,951
$9,256,791
Consolidated net income (a)
15,586
—
—
—
1,185,449
—
1,201,035
Other comprehensive income
—
—
—
—
—
29,185
29,185
Preferred stock repurchases / redemptions
—
—
—
—
(283
)
—
(283
)
Common stock issuances related to stock plans
—
—
53,684
229
—
—
53,913
Common stock dividends declared
—
—
—
—
(455,993
)
—
(455,993
)
Preferred dividend requirements of subsidiaries (a)
(15,586
)
—
—
—
—
—
(15,586
)
Balance at September 30, 2016
$—
$2,548
($5,498,695
)
$5,403,987
$10,123,086
$38,136
$10,069,062
Balance at December 31, 2016
$—
$2,548
($5,498,584
)
$5,417,245
$8,195,571
($34,971
)
$8,081,809
Consolidated net income (a)
10,338
—
—
—
890,726
—
901,064
Other comprehensive income
—
—
—
—
—
146,649
146,649
Common stock issuances related to stock plans
—
—
36,086
3,363
—
—
39,449
Common stock dividends declared
—
—
—
—
(468,396
)
—
(468,396
)
Preferred dividend requirements of subsidiaries (a)
(10,338
)
—
—
—
—
—
(10,338
)
Balance at September 30, 2017
$—
$2,548
($5,462,498
)
$5,420,608
$8,617,901
$111,678
$8,690,237
See Notes to Financial Statements.
(a) Consolidated net income and preferred dividend requirements of subsidiaries for 2017 and 2016 include $10.3 million and $15.6 million, respectively, of preferred dividends on subsidiaries’ preferred stock without sinking fund that is not presented within equity.
28
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ENTERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
SELECTED OPERATING RESULTS
For the Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 and 2016
(Unaudited)
Three Months Ended
Increase/
Description
2017
2016
(Decrease)
%
(Dollars in Millions)
Utility electric operating revenues:
Residential
$1,107
$1,106
$1
—
Commercial
721
678
43
6
Industrial
721
616
105
17
Governmental
62
58
4
7
Total retail
2,611
2,458
153
6
Sales for resale
78
67
11
16
Other
105
100
5
5
Total
$2,794
$2,625
$169
6
Utility billed electric energy sales (GWh):
Residential
10,833
11,817
(984
)
(8
)
Commercial
8,271
8,650
(379
)
(4
)
Industrial
12,503
12,017
486
4
Governmental
682
703
(21
)
(3
)
Total retail
32,289
33,187
(898
)
(3
)
Sales for resale
3,387
2,733
654
24
Total
35,676
35,920
(244
)
(1
)
Entergy Wholesale Commodities:
Operating Revenues
$423
$475
($52
)
(11
)
Billed Electric Energy Sales (GWh)
8,234
9,372
(1,138
)
(12
)
Nine Months Ended
Increase/
Description
2017
2016
(Decrease)
%
(Dollars in Millions)
Utility electric operating revenues:
Residential
$2,560
$2,517
$43
2
Commercial
1,861
1,759
102
6
Industrial
1,937
1,727
210
12
Governmental
172
161
11
7
Total retail
6,530
6,164
366
6
Sales for resale
202
194
8
4
Other
325
402
(77
)
(19
)
Total
$7,057
$6,760
$297
4
Utility billed electric energy sales (GWh):
Residential
25,810
27,035
(1,225
)
(5
)
Commercial
21,595
21,938
(343
)
(2
)
Industrial
35,829
34,581
1,248
4
Governmental
1,885
1,912
(27
)
(1
)
Total retail
85,119
85,466
(347
)
—
Sales for resale
8,255
9,452
(1,197
)
(13
)
Total
93,374
94,918
(1,544
)
(2
)
Entergy Wholesale Commodities:
Operating revenues
$1,294
$1,342
($48
)
(4
)
Billed electric energy sales (GWh)
22,616
26,484
(3,868
)
(15
)
29
Table of Contents
ENTERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
NOTE 1. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Entergy Corporation, Entergy Arkansas, Entergy Louisiana, Entergy Mississippi, Entergy New Orleans, Entergy Texas, and System Energy)
Entergy and the Registrant Subsidiaries are involved in a number of legal, regulatory, and tax proceedings before various courts, regulatory commissions, and governmental agencies in the ordinary course of business. While management is unable to predict with certainty the outcome of such proceedings, management does not believe that the ultimate resolution of these matters will have a material adverse effect on Entergy’s results of operations, cash flows, or financial condition, except as otherwise discussed in the Form 10-K or in this report. Entergy discusses regulatory proceedings in Note 2 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K and herein and discusses tax proceedings in Note 3 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K and Note 10 to the financial statements herein.
Vidalia Purchased Power Agreement
See Note 8 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for information on Entergy Louisiana’s Vidalia purchased power agreement.
ANO Damage, Outage, and NRC Reviews
See Note 8 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for a discussion of the ANO stator incident, subsequent NRC reviews, and the deferral of replacement power costs.
Pilgrim NRC Oversight and Planned Shutdown
See Note 8 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for a discussion of the NRC’s enhanced inspections of Pilgrim and Entergy’s planned shutdown of Pilgrim no later than June 1, 2019.
Spent Nuclear Fuel Litigation
See Note 8 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for information on Entergy’s spent nuclear fuel litigation.
As discussed in the Form 10-K, in April 2016 the U.S. Court of Federal Claims issued a partial judgment in the amount of
$42 million
in favor of Entergy Louisiana and against the DOE in the first round River Bend damages case, reserving the issue of cask loading costs pending resolution of the appeal on the same issues in the Entergy Arkansas and System Energy cases. Entergy Louisiana received payment from the U.S. Treasury in August 2016. In September 2016 the U.S. Court of Federal Claims issued a further judgment in the River Bend case in the amount of
$5 million
. Entergy Louisiana received payment from the U.S. Treasury in January 2017. The River Bend damages awarded included
$2 million
related to costs previously recorded as nuclear fuel expense and
$3 million
related to costs previously recorded as other operation and maintenance expense.
As discussed in the Form 10-K, in September 2016 the U.S. Court of Federal Claims issued a judgment in the Entergy Nuclear Palisades case in the amount of
$14 million
, including
$11 million
related to costs previously capitalized and
$3 million
related to costs previously recorded as other operation and maintenance expense. Entergy Nuclear Palisades recorded a receivable for that amount, and subsequently received payment from the U.S. Treasury in January 2017.
As discussed in the Form 10-K, in October 2016 the U.S. Court of Federal Claims issued a judgment in the second round Entergy Nuclear Indian Point 2 case in the amount of
$34 million
, including
$14 million
related to costs previously capitalized,
$15 million
related to costs previously recorded as other operation and maintenance expense,
30
Table of Contents
Entergy Corporation and Subsidiaries
Notes to Financial Statements
$3 million
related to previously recorded decommissioning expense, and
$2 million
related to costs previously recorded as taxes other than income taxes. Entergy Nuclear Indian Point 2 recorded a receivable for that amount, and subsequently received payment from the U.S. Treasury in January 2017.
Nuclear Insurance
See Note 8 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for information on nuclear liability and property insurance associated with Entergy’s nuclear power plants.
Conventional Property Insurance
See Note 8 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for information on Entergy’s non-nuclear property insurance program.
Employment and Labor-related Proceedings
See Note 8 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for information on Entergy’s employment and labor-related proceedings.
Asbestos Litigation
(Entergy Arkansas, Entergy Louisiana, Entergy New Orleans, and Entergy Texas)
See Note 8 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for information regarding asbestos litigation.
NOTE 2. RATE AND REGULATORY MATTERS
(Entergy Corporation, Entergy Arkansas, Entergy Louisiana, Entergy Mississippi, Entergy New Orleans, Entergy Texas, and System Energy)
Regulatory Assets and Regulatory Liabilities
See Note 2 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for information regarding regulatory assets and regulatory liabilities in the Utility business presented on the balance sheets of Entergy and the Registrant Subsidiaries. The following are updates to that discussion.
Fuel and purchased power cost recovery
Entergy Arkansas
Energy Cost Recovery Rider
In March 2017, Entergy Arkansas filed its annual redetermination of its energy cost rate pursuant to the energy cost recovery rider, which reflected an increase in the rate from
$0.01164
per kWh to
$0.01547
per kWh. The APSC staff filed testimony in March 2017 recommending that the redetermined rate should be implemented with the first billing cycle of April 2017 under the normal operation of the tariff. Accordingly, the redetermined rate went into effect on March 31, 2017 pursuant to the tariff. In July 2017 the Arkansas Attorney General requested additional information to support certain of the costs included in Entergy Arkansas’s 2017 energy cost rate redetermination.
Entergy Louisiana
As discussed in the Form 10-K, in June 2016 the LPSC staff provided notice of audits of Entergy Louisiana’s fuel adjustment clause filings and purchased gas adjustment clause filings. The audit included a review of the reasonableness of charges flowed through Entergy Louisiana’s fuel adjustment clause for the period from 2014 through
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2015 and charges flowed through Entergy Louisiana’s purchased gas adjustment clause for the period from 2012 through 2015. Discovery commenced in March 2017.
As discussed in the Form 10-K, in April 2010 the LPSC authorized its staff to initiate an audit of Entergy Louisiana’s fuel adjustment clause filings. The audit included a review of the reasonableness of the charges flowed through the fuel adjustment clause by Entergy Louisiana for the period from 2005 through 2009. In December 2016 the LPSC opened a new docket in order to resolve an issue regarding the proper methodology for the recovery of nuclear dry fuel storage costs. In October 2017 the LPSC approved the continued recovery of the nuclear dry fuel storage costs through the fuel adjustment clause, resolving the open issue in the audit.
Entergy Mississippi
Mississippi Attorney General Complaint
As discussed in the Form 10-K, the Mississippi attorney general filed a complaint in state court in December 2008 against Entergy Corporation, Entergy Mississippi, Entergy Services, and Entergy Power alleging, among other things, violations of Mississippi statutes, fraud, breach of good faith and fair dealing, and requesting an accounting and restitution. The complaint is wide ranging and relates to tariffs and procedures under which Entergy Mississippi purchases power not generated in Mississippi to meet electricity demand. The defendants have denied the allegations. In June 2017 the District Court issued a case management order setting a trial date in November 2018. Discovery is currently in progress.
Entergy Texas
As discussed in the Form 10-K, in July 2016, Entergy Texas filed an application to reconcile its fuel and purchased power costs for the period April 1, 2013 through March 31, 2016. In December 2016, Entergy Texas entered into a stipulation and settlement agreement resulting in a
$6 million
disallowance not associated with any particular issue raised and a refund of the over-recovery balance of
$21 million
as of November 30, 2016, to most customers beginning April 2017 through June 2017. The fuel reconciliation settlement was approved by the PUCT in March 2017 and the refunds were made.
In June 2017, Entergy Texas filed an application for a fuel refund of approximately
$30.7 million
for the months of December 2016 through April 2017. For most customers, the refunds flowed through bills for the months of July 2017 through September 2017. The fuel refund was approved by the PUCT in August 2017.
Retail Rate Proceedings
See Note 2 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for detailed information regarding retail rate proceedings involving the Utility operating companies. The following are updates to that information.
Filings with the APSC
2016 Formula Rate Plan Filing
As discussed in the Form 10-K, Entergy Arkansas is required to make a supplemental filing supporting the recovery of certain nuclear costs. In April 2017, Entergy Arkansas filed a motion consented to by all parties requesting that it be permitted to submit its supplemental filing in conjunction with its 2017 formula rate plan filing, which was subsequently made in July 2017 and is discussed below. In May 2017 the APSC approved the joint motion and proposal to review Entergy Arkansas’s supplemental filing on a concurrent schedule with the 2017 formula rate plan filing. In doing so, however, the APSC noted that a determination of whether the supplemental information supporting certain nuclear expenditures will be considered in the hearing for the 2017 formula rate plan filing or a separate hearing will be made at a later time. In October 2017, Entergy Arkansas and the parties to the proceeding filed a joint motion to
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approve a unanimous settlement agreement resolving all issues in the docket and providing for recovery of the 2017 and 2018 nuclear costs.
2017 Formula Rate Plan Filing
In July 2017, Entergy Arkansas filed with the APSC its 2017 formula rate plan filing showing Entergy Arkansas’s projected earned return on common equity for the twelve months ended December 31, 2018 test period to be below the formula rate plan bandwidth. The filing projected a
$129.7 million
revenue requirement increase to achieve Entergy Arkansas’s target earned return on common equity of
9.75%
. Entergy Arkansas’s formula rate plan is subject to a
four
percent annual revenue constraint and the projected annual revenue requirement increase exceeds the four percent, resulting in a proposed increase for the 2017 formula rate plan of
$70.9 million
. In October 2017, Entergy Arkansas filed with the APSC revised formula rate plan attachments that projected a
$126.2 million
revenue requirement increase based on acceptance of certain adjustments and recommendations made by the APSC staff and other intervenors. The revised formula rate plan filing included a proposed
$71.1 million
revenue requirement increase based on a revision to the four percent cap calculation. In October 2017, Entergy Arkansas and the parties to the proceeding filed a joint motion to approve a unanimous settlement agreement resolving all issues in the docket and providing for recovery of the 2017 and 2018 nuclear costs. The settlement agreement does not affect Entergy Arkansas’s proposed $71.1 million revenue requirement increase. If a final order is not issued by December 13, 2017, the proposed formula rate plan adjustment will become effective January 2, 2018, subject to refund.
Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) Filing
As discussed in the Form 10-K, in September 2016, Entergy Arkansas filed an application seeking a finding from the APSC that Entergy Arkansas’s deployment of advanced metering infrastructure is in the public interest. In June 2017 the APSC staff and Arkansas Attorney General filed direct testimony. The APSC staff generally supported Entergy Arkansas’s AMI deployment conditioned on various recommendations. The Arkansas Attorney General’s consultant primarily recommended denial of Entergy Arkansas’s application but alternatively suggested recommendations in the event the APSC approves Entergy Arkansas’s proposal. Entergy Arkansas filed rebuttal testimony in June 2017, substantially accepting the APSC staff’s recommendations. In August 2017, Entergy Arkansas and the parties to the proceeding filed a joint motion to approve a unanimous settlement agreement. Also in August 2017 supplemental testimony was filed and a settlement hearing was held. In October 2017 the APSC issued an order finding that Entergy Arkansas’s AMI deployment is in the public interest and approving the settlement agreement subject to a minor modification. Entergy Arkansas expects to recover the undepreciated balance of its existing meters through a regulatory asset to be amortized over 15 years.
Filings with the LPSC
Retail Rates - Electric
2014 Formula Rate Plan Filing
As discussed in the Form 10-K, in September 2015, Entergy Louisiana filed its formula rate plan evaluation report for Entergy Gulf States Louisiana’s and Entergy Louisiana’s 2014 calendar year operations. In June 2017 the LPSC staff and Entergy Louisiana filed an unopposed joint report of proceedings, which was accepted by the LPSC in June 2017, finalizing the results of this proceeding with no changes to rates already implemented.
2015 Formula Rate Plan Filing
As discussed in the Form 10-K, in May 2016, Entergy Louisiana filed its formula rate plan evaluation report for its 2015 calendar year operations. In June 2017 the LPSC staff and Entergy Louisiana filed a joint report of proceedings, which was accepted by the LPSC in June 2017, finalizing the results of the May 2016 evaluation report, interim updates, and corresponding proceedings with no changes to rates already implemented.
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In November 2016, Entergy Louisiana filed with the LPSC a request to extend the MISO cost recovery mechanism rider provision of its formula rate plan. In March 2017 the LPSC staff submitted direct testimony generally supportive of a one-year extension of the MISO cost recovery mechanism and the intervenor in the proceeding did not oppose an extension for this period of time. In June 2017 an uncontested joint stipulation authorizing a one-year extension of the MISO cost recovery mechanism rider was filed and the LPSC approved the stipulation in July 2017.
2016 Formula Rate Plan Filing
In May 2017, Entergy Louisiana filed its formula rate plan evaluation report for its 2016 calendar year operations. The evaluation report reflects an earned return on common equity of
9.84%
. As such, no adjustment to base formula rate plan revenue is required. The following adjustments, however, are required under the formula rate plan. The 2016 formula rate plan evaluation report shows a decrease in formula rate plan revenue of approximately
$16.9 million
, comprised of a decrease in legacy Entergy Louisiana formula rate plan revenue of
$3.5 million
, a decrease in legacy Entergy Gulf States Louisiana formula rate plan revenue of
$9.7 million
, and a decrease in incremental formula rate plan revenue of
$3.7 million
. Additionally, the formula rate plan evaluation report calls for a decrease of
$40.5 million
in the MISO cost recovery revenue requirement from the current level of
$46.8 million
to
$6.3 million
. Rates reflecting these adjustments were implemented with the first billing cycle of September 2017, subject to refund, pending the review proceedings. Parties have intervened in the proceedings. No procedural schedule has been established. In September 2017 the LPSC issued its report indicating that no changes to Entergy Louisiana’s original formula rate plan evaluation report are required but reserved for several issues, including Entergy Louisiana’s September 2017 update to its formula rate plan evaluation report.
Formula Rate Plan Extension Request
In August 2017, Entergy Louisiana filed a request with the LPSC seeking to extend its formula rate plan for three years (2017-2019) with limited modifications of its terms. Those modifications include: a one-time resetting of base rates to the midpoint of the band at Entergy Louisiana’s authorized return on equity of
9.95%
for the 2017 test year; narrowing of the formula rate plan bandwidth from a total of
160
basis points to
80
basis points; and a forward-looking mechanism that would allow Entergy Louisiana to recover certain transmission-related costs contemporaneously with when those projects begin delivering benefits to customers. Entergy Louisiana has requested that the LPSC consider its request on an expedited basis and render a decision by December 2017, in an effort to maintain Entergy Louisiana’s current cycle for implementing rate adjustments, i.e., September 2018, without the need for filing a full base rate case proceeding.
Waterford 3 Replacement Steam Generator Project
See Note 2 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for discussion of the Waterford 3 replacement steam generator project prudence review proceeding. The refund to customers of approximately
$71 million
as a result of the settlement approved by the LPSC was made in January 2017. Following a review by the parties, an unopposed joint report of proceedings was filed by the LPSC staff and Entergy Louisiana in May 2017. In May 2017 the LPSC accepted the joint report of proceedings resolving the matter.
Deactivation or Retirement Decisions for Entergy Louisiana Plants
As a term of the LPSC-approved settlement authorizing the purchase of Power Blocks 3 and 4 of the Union Power Station, Entergy Louisiana agreed to make a filing with the LPSC to review its decisions to deactivate Ninemile 3 and Willow Glen 2 and 4 and its decision to retire Little Gypsy 1. In January 2016, Entergy Louisiana made its compliance filing with the LPSC. Entergy Louisiana, LPSC staff, and intervenors participated in a technical conference in March 2016 where Entergy Louisiana presented information on its deactivation/retirement decisions for these four units in addition to information on the current deactivation decisions for the ten-year planning horizon. Parties have requested further proceedings on the prudence of the decision to deactivate Willow Glen 2 and 4. No party contests the prudence of the decision to deactivate Willow Glen 2 and 4 or suggests reactivation of these units; however, issues
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have been raised related to Entergy Louisiana’s decision to give up its transmission service rights in MISO for Willow Glen 2 and 4 rather than placing the units into suspended status for the three-year term permitted by MISO. An evidentiary hearing was held in August 2017 and post-hearing briefs were submitted in October 2017. A decision is expected in 2018.
Retail Rates - Gas
2016 Rate Stabilization Plan Filing
In January 2017, Entergy Louisiana filed with the LPSC its gas rate stabilization plan for the test year ended September 30, 2016. The filing of the evaluation report for test year 2016 reflected an earned return on common equity of
6.37%
. As part of the original filing, pursuant to the extraordinary cost provision of the rate stabilization plan, Entergy Louisiana sought to recover approximately
$1.5 million
in deferred operation and maintenance expenses incurred to restore service and repair damage resulting from flooding and widespread rainfall in southeast Louisiana that occurred in August 2016. Entergy Louisiana requested to recover the prudently incurred August 2016 storm restoration costs over ten years, outside of the rate stabilization plan sharing provisions. As a result, Entergy Louisiana’s filing sought an annual increase in revenue of
$1.4 million
. Following review of the filing, except for the proposed extraordinary cost recovery, the LPSC staff confirmed Entergy Louisiana’s filing was consistent with the principles and requirements of the rate stabilization plan. The extraordinary cost recovery request associated with the 2016 flood-related deferred operation and maintenance expenses incurred for gas operations was removed from the rate stabilization plan pending LPSC consideration in a separate docket. In April 2017 the LPSC approved a joint report of proceedings and Entergy Louisiana submitted a revised evaluation report reflecting a
$1.2 million
annual increase in revenue with rates implemented with the first billing cycle of May 2017.
In connection with the joint report of proceedings accepted by the LPSC, in May 2017, Entergy Louisiana filed an application to initiate a separate proceeding to recover the deferred operation and maintenance expenses of
$1.4 million
incurred to restore service and repair damage resulting from flooding and widespread rainfall in southeast Louisiana that occurred in August 2016 through the extraordinary cost provision of the gas rate stabilization plan. The LPSC staff submitted its direct testimony in the proceeding recommending recovery of
$0.9 million
. The procedural schedule includes a hearing in February 2018.
Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) Filing
As discussed in the Form 10-K, in November 2016, Entergy Louisiana filed an application seeking a finding from the LPSC that Entergy Louisiana’s deployment of advanced electric and gas metering infrastructure is in the public interest. The parties reached an uncontested stipulation permitting implementation of Entergy Louisiana’s proposed AMI system, with modifications to the proposed customer charge. The stipulation also confirmed that Entergy Louisiana shall continue to include in rate base the remaining book value of the existing electric meters and also to depreciate those assets using current depreciation rates. In July 2017 the LPSC approved the stipulation.
Filings with the MPSC
Formula Rate Plan
In March 2017, Entergy Mississippi submitted its formula rate plan 2017 test year filing and 2016 look-back filing showing Entergy Mississippi’s earned return for the historical 2016 calendar year and projected earned return for the 2017 calendar year to be within the formula rate plan bandwidth, resulting in no change in rates. In June 2017, Entergy Mississippi and the Mississippi Public Utilities Staff entered into a stipulation that confirmed that Entergy Mississippi’s earned returns for both the 2016 look-back filing and 2017 test year were within the respective formula rate plan bandwidths. In June 2017 the MPSC approved the stipulation, which resulted in no change in rates.
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Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) Filing
As discussed in the Form 10-K, in November 2016, Entergy Mississippi filed an application seeking a finding from the MPSC that Entergy Mississippi’s deployment of advanced metering infrastructure is in the public interest. In May 2017 the Mississippi Public Utilities Staff and Entergy Mississippi entered into and filed a joint stipulation supporting Entergy Mississippi’s filing, and the MPSC issued an order approving the filing without any material changes, finding that Entergy Mississippi’s deployment of AMI is in the public interest and granting a certificate of public convenience and necessity. The MPSC order also confirmed that Entergy Mississippi shall continue to include in rate base the remaining book value of existing meters that will be retired as part of the AMI deployment and also to depreciate those assets using current depreciation rates.
Filings with the City Council
Retail Rates
As discussed in the Form 10-K, in February 2017, Entergy New Orleans filed a proposed implementation plan for the Energy Smart program from April 2017 through March 2020. As part of the proposal, Entergy New Orleans requested that the City Council identify its desired level of funding for the program during this time period and approve a cost recovery mechanism. In April 2017 the City Council approved an implementation plan for the Energy Smart program from April 2017 through December 2019. The City Council directed that the
$11.8 million
balance reported for Energy Smart funds be used to continue funding the program for Entergy New Orleans’s legacy customers and that the Energy Smart Algiers program continue to be funded through the Algiers fuel adjustment clause, until additional customer funding is required for the legacy customers. In September 2017, Entergy New Orleans filed a supplemental plan and proposed several options for an interim cost recovery mechanism necessary to recover program costs during the period between when existing funds directed to Energy Smart programs are depleted (estimated to be June 2018) and when new rates from the anticipated 2018 combined rate case, which will include a cost recovery mechanism for Energy Smart funding, take effect (estimated to be August 2019). Entergy New Orleans requested that the City Council approve a cost recovery mechanism prior to June 2018.
Internal Restructuring
As discussed in the Form 10-K, in July 2016, Entergy New Orleans filed an application with the City Council seeking authorization to undertake a restructuring that would result in the transfer of substantially all of the assets and operations of Entergy New Orleans to a new entity, which would ultimately be owned by an existing Entergy subsidiary holding company. In May 2017 the City Council adopted a resolution approving the proposed internal restructuring pursuant to an agreement in principle with the City Council advisors and certain intervenors. Pursuant to the agreement in principle, Entergy New Orleans will credit retail customers
$10 million
in 2017,
$1.4 million
in the first quarter of the year after the transaction closes, and
$117,500
each month in the second year after the transaction closes until such time as new base rates go into effect as a result of the anticipated 2018 base rate case. Entergy New Orleans began crediting retail customers in June 2017. In June 2017 the FERC approved the transaction and, pursuant to the agreement in principle, Entergy New Orleans will provide additional credits to retail customers of
$5 million
in each of the years 2018, 2019, and 2020. Entergy New Orleans expects to complete the internal restructuring in fourth quarter 2017.
Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) Filing
As discussed in the Form 10-K, in October 2016, Entergy New Orleans filed an application seeking a finding from the City Council that Entergy New Orleans’s deployment of advanced electric and gas metering infrastructure is in the public interest. In April 2017, Entergy New Orleans received intervenor testimony that was generally supportive of AMI deployment. The City Council’s advisors filed testimony in May 2017 recommending the adoption of AMI subject to certain modifications, including the denial of Entergy New Orleans’s proposed customer charge as a cost recovery mechanism. In June 2017 the procedural schedule was suspended to allow for settlement discussions. A
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status conference was held in October 2017, and the parties set another status conference for February 2018 with the intent to continue to pursue settlement in the interim.
Filings with the PUCT
Retail Rates
2011 Rate Case
See Note 2 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for discussion of Entergy Texas’s 2011 rate case. As discussed in the Form 10-K, several parties, including Entergy Texas, appealed various aspects of the PUCT’s order to the Travis County District Court. In October 2014 the Travis County District Court issued an order upholding the PUCT’s decision except as to the line-loss factor issue referenced in the Form 10-K, which was found in favor of Entergy Texas. In November 2014, Entergy Texas and other parties, including the PUCT, appealed the Travis County District Court decision to the Third Court of Appeals. Oral argument before the court panel was held in September 2015. In April 2016 the Third Court of Appeals issued its opinion affirming the District Court’s decision on all points. Entergy Texas and other parties petitioned the Texas Supreme Court to hear its appeal of the Third Court’s ruling. In September 2017 the Texas Supreme Court denied the petitions for review. Entergy Texas filed a motion for rehearing of the Texas Supreme Court’s denial of the petition for review. That motion is pending.
Other Filings
In September 2016, Entergy Texas filed with the PUCT a request to amend its transmission cost recovery factor (TCRF) rider. The proposed amended TCRF rider is designed to collect approximately
$29.5 million
annually from Entergy Texas’s retail customers. This amount includes the approximately
$10.5 million
annually that Entergy Texas is currently authorized to collect through the TCRF rider. In December 2016, Entergy Texas and the PUCT reached a settlement agreeing to the amended TCRF annual revenue requirement of
$29.5 million
. The PUCT approved the settlement and issued a final order in March 2017. Entergy Texas implemented the amended TCRF rider beginning with bills covering usage on and after March 20, 2017.
In June 2017, Entergy Texas filed an application to amend its distribution cost recovery factor (DCRF) rider by increasing the total collection from
$8.65 million
to approximately
$19 million
. In July 2017, Entergy Texas, the PUCT, and the parties in the proceeding entered into an unopposed stipulation and settlement agreement resulting in an amended DCRF annual revenue requirement of
$18.3 million
, with the resulting rates effective for usage no later than October 1, 2017. In September 2017 the PUCT issued its final order approving the unopposed stipulation and settlement agreement. The amended DCRF rider rates became effective for usage on and after September 1, 2017.
Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) Filing
In April 2017 the Texas legislature enacted legislation that extends statutory support for AMI deployment to Entergy Texas and directs that if Entergy Texas elects to deploy AMI, it shall do so as rapidly as practicable. In July 2017, Entergy Texas filed an application seeking an order from the PUCT approving Entergy Texas’s deployment of AMI. Entergy Texas proposed to replace existing meters with advanced meters that enable two-way data communication; design and build a secure and reliable network to support such communications; and implement support systems. AMI is intended to serve as the foundation of Entergy Texas’s modernized power grid. The filing identified a number of quantified and unquantified benefits, with Entergy Texas showing that its AMI deployment is expected to produce nominal net operational cost savings to customers of
$33 million
. Entergy Texas also sought to continue to include in rate base the remaining book value, approximately
$41 million
at December 31, 2016, of existing meters that will be retired as part of the AMI deployment and also to depreciate those assets using current depreciation rates. Entergy Texas proposed a seven-year depreciable life for the new advanced meters, the three-year deployment of which is expected to begin in 2019. Entergy Texas also proposed a surcharge tariff to recover the reasonable and necessary costs it has and will incur under the deployment plan for the full deployment of advanced meters. Further, Entergy
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Texas is seeking approval of fees that would be charged to customers who choose to opt out of receiving service through an advanced meter and instead receive electric service with a non-standard meter. Subject to approval by the PUCT, deployment of the communications network is expected to begin in 2018. In October 2017, Entergy Texas and other parties entered into and filed an unopposed stipulation and settlement agreement. PUCT action on the stipulation and settlement agreement remains pending. Entergy Texas expects a decision from the PUCT by December 2017.
Storm Cost Recovery
Entergy Mississippi
See Note 2 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for discussion of Entergy Mississippi’s storm damage provision. As of July 31, 2017, the balance in Entergy Mississippi’s accumulated storm damage provision was less than
$10 million
, therefore Entergy Mississippi resumed billing the monthly storm damage provision effective with September 2017 bills.
System Agreement Cost Equalization Proceedings
See Note 2 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for a discussion of the proceedings regarding the System Agreement, including the LPSC’s petition for review of the FERC’s October 2011 and February 2014 orders with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit. In August 2017 the D.C. Circuit issued a decision addressing the LPSC’s appeal of the FERC’s October 2011 and February 2014 orders. On the issue of the FERC’s implementation of the prospective remedy as of June 2005 and whether the bandwidth remedy should be extended for an additional
17 months
in years 2004-2005, the D.C. Circuit affirmed the FERC’s implementation of the remedy and denied the LPSC’s appeal. On the issue of whether the operating companies should be required to issue refunds for the
20-month
period from September 2001 to May 2003, the D.C. Circuit granted the FERC’s request for agency reconsideration and remanded that issue back to the FERC for further proceedings as requested by all parties to the appeal.
Entergy Arkansas Opportunity Sales Proceedings
As discussed in the Form 10-K, in June 2009 the LPSC filed a complaint requesting that the FERC determine that certain of Entergy Arkansas’s sales of electric energy to third parties: (a) violated the provisions of the System Agreement that allocated the energy generated by Entergy System resources, (b) imprudently denied the Entergy System and its ultimate consumers the benefits of low-cost Entergy System generating capacity, and (c) violated the provision of the System Agreement that prohibited sales to third parties by individual companies absent an offer of a right-of-first-refusal to other Utility operating companies. The LPSC’s complaint challenges sales made beginning in 2002 and requests refunds.
In April 2016 the FERC issued orders addressing requests for rehearing filed in July 2012 and an ALJ’s August 2013 initial decision. The first order denies Entergy’s request for rehearing and affirms FERC’s earlier rulings that Entergy’s original methodology for allocating energy costs to the opportunity sales was incorrect and, as a result, Entergy Arkansas must make payments to the other Utility operating companies to put them in the same position that they would have been in absent the incorrect allocation. The FERC clarified that interest should be included with the payments. The second order affirmed in part, and reversed in part, the rulings in the ALJ’s August 2013 initial decision regarding the methodology that should be used to calculate the payments Entergy Arkansas is to make to the other Utility operating companies. The FERC affirmed the ALJ’s ruling that a full re-run of intra-system bills should be performed, but required that methodology be modified so that the sales have the same priority for purposes of energy allocation as joint account sales. The FERC reversed the ALJ’s decision that any payments by Entergy Arkansas should be reduced by
20%
. The FERC also reversed the ALJ’s decision that adjustments to other System Agreement service schedules and excess bandwidth payments should not be taken into account when calculating the payments to be made by Entergy Arkansas. The FERC held that such adjustments and excess bandwidth payments should be taken into account, but ordered further proceedings before an ALJ to address whether a cap on any reduction due to bandwidth payments was necessary and to implement the other adjustments to the calculation methodology.
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In May 2016, Entergy Services filed a request for rehearing of the FERC’s April 2016 order arguing that payments made by Entergy Arkansas should be reduced as a result of the timing of the LPSC’s approval of certain contracts. Entergy Services also filed a request for clarification and/or rehearing of the FERC’s April 2016 order addressing the ALJ’s August 2013 initial decision. The APSC and the LPSC also filed requests for rehearing of the FERC’s April 2016 order. In September 2017 the FERC issued an order denying the request for rehearing on the issue of whether any payments by Entergy Arkansas to the other Utility operating companies should be reduced due to the timing of the LPSC’s approval of Entergy Arkansas’s wholesale baseload contract with Entergy Louisiana.
Pursuant to the procedural schedule established in the case, Entergy Services re-ran intra-system bills for the ten-year period 2000-2009 to quantify the effects of the FERC's ruling. In November 2016 the LPSC submitted testimony disputing certain aspects of the calculations, and Entergy Services submitted answering testimony in January 2017. In February 2017 the FERC staff filed testimony and Entergy Services filed responsive testimony. In March 2017 the LPSC filed rebuttal testimony. A hearing was held in May 2017. In July 2017 the ALJ issued an initial decision concluding that Entergy Arkansas should pay
$86 million
plus interest to the other Utility operating companies.
In August 2017 the Utility operating companies, the LPSC, the APSC, and FERC staff filed individual briefs on exceptions challenging various aspects of the initial decision. In September 2017 the Utility operating companies, the LPSC, the APSC, the MPSC, the City Council, and FERC staff filed separate briefs opposing exceptions taken by various parties. The case is pending before the FERC. No payments will be made or received by the Utility operating companies until the FERC issues an order reviewing the initial decision and Entergy submits a subsequent filing to comply with that order.
The effect of the FERC’s decisions thus far in the case would be that Entergy Arkansas will make payments to some or all of the other Utility operating companies. Because further proceedings will still occur in the case, the amount and recipients of payments by Entergy Arkansas are unknown at this time. Based on testimony previously submitted in the case and its assessment of the April 2016 FERC orders, in the first quarter 2016, Entergy Arkansas recorded a liability of
$87 million
, which includes interest, for its estimated increased costs and payment to the other Utility operating companies. This estimate is subject to change depending on how the FERC resolves the issues that are still outstanding in the case, including its review of the July 2017 initial decision. Entergy Arkansas’s increased costs will be attributed to Entergy Arkansas’s retail and wholesale businesses, and it is not probable that Entergy Arkansas will recover the wholesale portion. Entergy Arkansas, therefore, recorded a regulatory asset in the first quarter 2016 of approximately
$75 million
, which represents its estimate of the retail portion of the costs.
Complaint Against System Energy
In January 2017 the APSC and MPSC filed a complaint with the FERC against System Energy. The complaint seeks a reduction in the return on equity component of the Unit Power Sales Agreement pursuant to which System Energy sells its Grand Gulf capacity and energy to Entergy Arkansas, Entergy Louisiana, Entergy Mississippi, and Entergy New Orleans. Entergy Arkansas also sells some of its Grand Gulf capacity and energy to Entergy Louisiana, Entergy Mississippi, and Entergy New Orleans under separate agreements. The current return on equity under the Unit Power Sales Agreement is
10.94%
. The complaint alleges that the return on equity is unjust and unreasonable because current capital market and other considerations indicate that it is excessive. The complaint requests the FERC to institute proceedings to investigate the return on equity and establish a lower return on equity, and also requests that the FERC establish January 23, 2017 as a refund effective date. The complaint includes return on equity analysis that purports to establish that the range of reasonable return on equity for System Energy is between
8.37%
and
8.67%
. System Energy answered the complaint in February 2017 and disputes that a return on equity of 8.37% to 8.67% is just and reasonable. The LPSC and the City Council intervened in the proceeding expressing support for the complaint. System Energy is recording a provision against revenue for the potential outcome of this proceeding. In September 2017 the FERC established a refund effective date of January 23, 2017, consolidated the return on equity complaint proceeding with the proceeding related to System Energy’s Unit Power Sales Agreement amendments, discussed below, and directed the parties to engage in settlement proceedings before an ALJ. If the parties fail to come to an agreement during settlement proceedings, a prehearing conference will be held to establish a procedural schedule for hearing proceedings.
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Unit Power Sales Agreement
In August 2017, System Energy submitted to the FERC proposed amendments to the Unit Power Sales Agreement pursuant to which System Energy sells its Grand Gulf capacity and energy to Entergy Arkansas, Entergy Louisiana, Entergy Mississippi, and Entergy New Orleans. The filing proposes limited amendments to the Unit Power Sales Agreement to adopt (1) updated rates for use in calculating Grand Gulf plant depreciation and amortization expenses and (2) updated nuclear decommissioning cost annual revenue requirements, both of which are recovered through the Unit Power Sales Agreement rate formula. The proposed amendments would result in lower charges to the Utility operating companies that buy capacity and energy from System Energy under the Unit Power Sales Agreement. The proposed changes are based on updated depreciation and nuclear decommissioning studies that take into account the renewal of Grand Gulf’s operating license for a term through November 1, 2044. System Energy requested that the FERC accept the amendments effective October 1, 2017.
In September 2017 the FERC accepted System Energy’s proposed Unit Power Sales Agreement amendments, subject to further proceedings to consider the justness and reasonableness of the amendments. Because the amendments propose a rate decrease, the FERC also initiated an investigation under Section 206 of the Federal Power Act to determine if the rate decrease should be lower than proposed. The FERC accepted the proposed amendments effective October 1, 2017, subject to refund pending the outcome of the further settlement and/or hearing proceedings, and established a refund effective date of October 11, 2017 with respect to the rate decrease. The FERC also consolidated the Unit Power Sales Agreement amendment proceeding with the proceeding related to the complaint filed by the APSC and MPSC, discussed above, and directed the parties to engage in settlement proceedings before an ALJ. If the parties fail to come to an agreement during settlement proceedings, a prehearing conference will be held to establish a procedural schedule for hearing proceedings.
NOTE 3. EQUITY (Entergy Corporation and Entergy Louisiana)
Common Stock
Earnings per Share
The following table presents Entergy’s basic and diluted earnings per share calculations included on the consolidated income statements:
For the Three Months Ended September 30,
2017
2016
(In Millions, Except Per Share Data)
Basic earnings per share
Income
Shares
$/share
Income
Shares
$/share
Net income attributable to Entergy Corporation
$398.2
179.6
$2.22
$388.2
179.0
$2.17
Average dilutive effect of:
Stock options
0.2
—
0.3
—
Other equity plans
0.7
(0.01
)
0.7
(0.01
)
Diluted earnings per share
$398.2
180.5
$2.21
$388.2
180.0
$2.16
The number of stock options not included in the calculation of diluted common shares outstanding due to their antidilutive effect was approximately
2.5 million
for the
three months ended September 30, 2017
and approximately
3.5 million
for the
three months ended September 30, 2016
.
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Notes to Financial Statements
For the Nine Months Ended September 30,
2017
2016
(In Millions, Except Per Share Data)
Basic earnings per share
Income
Shares
$/share
Income
Shares
$/share
Net income attributable to Entergy Corporation
$890.7
179.5
$4.96
$1,185.4
178.8
$6.63
Average dilutive effect of:
Stock options
0.2
(0.01
)
0.2
(0.01
)
Other equity plans
0.5
(0.01
)
0.5
(0.02
)
Diluted earnings per share
$890.7
180.2
$4.94
$1,185.4
179.5
$6.60
The number of stock options not included in the calculation of diluted common shares outstanding due to their antidilutive effect was approximately
3.3 million
for the
nine months ended September 30, 2017
and approximately
4.6 million
for the
nine months ended September 30, 2016
.
Entergy’s stock options and other equity compensation plans are discussed in Note 5 to the financial statements herein and in Note 12 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K.
Treasury Stock
During the
nine months ended September 30, 2017
, Entergy Corporation issued
496,177
shares of its previously repurchased common stock to satisfy stock option exercises, vesting of shares of restricted stock, and other stock-based awards. Entergy Corporation did not repurchase any of its common stock during the
nine months ended September 30, 2017
.
Retained Earnings
On October 27, 2017, Entergy Corporation’s Board of Directors declared a common stock dividend of
$0.89
per share, payable on December 1, 2017, to holders of record as of November 9, 2017.
Comprehensive Income
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) is included in the equity section of the balance sheets of Entergy and Entergy Louisiana. The following table presents changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for Entergy for the
three months ended September 30, 2017
by component:
Cash flow
hedges
net
unrealized
gain (loss)
Pension
and
other
postretirement
liabilities
Net
unrealized
investment
gain (loss)
Foreign
currency
translation
Total
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
(In Thousands)
Beginning balance, July 1, 2017
$23,414
($449,898
)
$479,257
$—
$52,773
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications
27,884
—
35,630
—
63,514
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
(14,671
)
12,297
(2,235
)
—
(4,609
)
Net other comprehensive income (loss) for the period
13,213
12,297
33,395
—
58,905
Ending balance, September 30, 2017
$36,627
($437,601
)
$512,652
$—
$111,678
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Notes to Financial Statements
The following table presents changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for Entergy for the
three months ended September 30, 2016
by component:
Cash flow
hedges
net
unrealized
gain (loss)
Pension
and
other
postretirement
liabilities
Net
unrealized
investment
gain (loss)
Foreign
currency
translation
Total
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
(In Thousands)
Beginning balance, July 1, 2016
$32,423
($453,999
)
$411,581
$840
($9,155
)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications
45,162
—
23,039
(92
)
68,109
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
(24,190
)
5,044
(1,672
)
—
(20,818
)
Net other comprehensive income (loss) for the period
20,972
5,044
21,367
(92
)
47,291
Ending balance, September 30, 2016
$53,395
($448,955
)
$432,948
$748
$38,136
The following table presents changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for Entergy for the
nine months ended September 30, 2017
by component:
Cash flow
hedges
net
unrealized
gain (loss)
Pension
and
other
postretirement
liabilities
Net
unrealized
investment
gain (loss)
Foreign
currency
translation
Total
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
(In Thousands)
Beginning balance, January 1, 2017
$3,993
($469,446
)
$429,734
$748
($34,971
)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications
88,550
—
109,372
(748
)
197,174
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
(55,916
)
31,845
(26,454
)
—
(50,525
)
Net other comprehensive income (loss) for the period
32,634
31,845
82,918
(748
)
146,649
Ending balance, September 30, 2017
$36,627
($437,601
)
$512,652
$—
$111,678
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Notes to Financial Statements
The following table presents changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for Entergy for the
nine months ended September 30, 2016
by component:
Cash flow
hedges
net
unrealized
gain (loss)
Pension
and
other
postretirement
liabilities
Net
unrealized
investment
gain (loss)
Foreign
currency
translation
Total
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
(In Thousands)
Beginning balance, January 1, 2016
$105,970
($466,604
)
$367,557
$2,028
$8,951
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications
101,071
—
72,087
(1,280
)
171,878
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
(153,646
)
17,649
(6,696
)
—
(142,693
)
Net other comprehensive income (loss) for the period
(52,575
)
17,649
65,391
(1,280
)
29,185
Ending balance, September 30, 2016
$53,395
($448,955
)
$432,948
$748
$38,136
The following table presents changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for Entergy Louisiana for the
three months ended September 30, 2017
and 2016:
Pension and Other
Postretirement Liabilities
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
Beginning balance, July 1,
($49,122
)
($56,905
)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other
comprehensive income (loss)
(370
)
(232
)
Net other comprehensive income (loss) for the period
(370
)
(232
)
Ending balance, September 30,
($49,492
)
($57,137
)
The following table presents changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for Entergy Louisiana for the
nine months ended September 30, 2017
and 2016:
Pension and Other
Postretirement Liabilities
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
Beginning balance, January 1,
($48,442
)
($56,412
)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other
comprehensive income (loss)
(1,050
)
(725
)
Net other comprehensive income (loss) for the period
(1,050
)
(725
)
Ending balance, September 30,
($49,492
)
($57,137
)
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Notes to Financial Statements
Total reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (AOCI) for Entergy for the three months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016 are as follows:
Amounts reclassified
from AOCI
Income Statement Location
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
Cash flow hedges net unrealized gain (loss)
Power contracts
$22,756
$37,550
Competitive business operating revenues
Interest rate swaps
(185
)
(334
)
Miscellaneous - net
Total realized gain (loss) on cash flow hedges
22,571
37,216
(7,900
)
(13,026
)
Income taxes
Total realized gain (loss) on cash flow hedges (net of tax)
$14,671
$24,190
Pension and other postretirement liabilities
Amortization of prior-service credit
$6,565
$7,354
(a)
Amortization of loss
(21,480
)
(15,183
)
(a)
Settlement loss
(4,200
)
(1,279
)
(a)
Total amortization
(19,115
)
(9,108
)
6,818
4,064
Income taxes
Total amortization (net of tax)
($12,297
)
($5,044
)
Net unrealized investment gain (loss)
Realized gain (loss)
$4,382
$3,279
Interest and investment income
(2,147
)
(1,607
)
Income taxes
Total realized investment gain (loss) (net of tax)
$2,235
$1,672
Total reclassifications for the period (net of tax)
$4,609
$20,818
(a)
These accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) components are included in the computation of net periodic pension and other postretirement cost. See Note 6 to the financial statements herein for additional details.
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Notes to Financial Statements
Total reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (AOCI) for Entergy for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016 are as follows:
Amounts reclassified
from AOCI
Income Statement Location
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
Cash flow hedges net unrealized gain (loss)
Power contracts
$86,678
$237,483
Competitive business operating revenues
Interest rate swaps
(654
)
(1,104
)
Miscellaneous - net
Total realized gain (loss) on cash flow hedges
86,024
236,379
(30,108
)
(82,733
)
Income taxes
Total realized gain (loss) on cash flow hedges (net of tax)
$55,916
$153,646
Pension and other postretirement liabilities
Amortization of prior-service credit
$19,691
$22,064
(a)
Amortization of loss
(64,605
)
(45,535
)
(a)
Settlement loss
(5,965
)
(1,279
)
(a)
Total amortization
(50,879
)
(24,750
)
19,034
7,101
Income taxes
Total amortization (net of tax)
($31,845
)
($17,649
)
Net unrealized investment gain (loss)
Realized gain (loss)
$51,871
$13,129
Interest and investment income
(25,417
)
(6,433
)
Income taxes
Total realized investment gain (loss) (net of tax)
$26,454
$6,696
Total reclassifications for the period (net of tax)
$50,525
$142,693
(a)
These accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) components are included in the computation of net periodic pension and other postretirement cost. See Note 6 to the financial statements herein for additional details.
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Notes to Financial Statements
Total reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (AOCI) for Entergy Louisiana for the three months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016 are as follows:
Amounts reclassified
from AOCI
Income Statement Location
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
Pension and other postretirement liabilities
Amortization of prior-service credit
$1,934
$1,947
(a)
Amortization of loss
(1,332
)
(1,570
)
(a)
Total amortization
602
377
(232
)
(145
)
Income taxes
Total amortization (net of tax)
370
232
Total reclassifications for the period (net of tax)
$370
$232
(a)
These accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) components are included in the computation of net periodic pension and other postretirement cost. See Note 6 to the financial statements herein for additional details.
Total reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (AOCI) for Entergy Louisiana for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016 are as follows:
Amounts reclassified
from AOCI
Income Statement Location
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
Pension and other postretirement liabilities
Amortization of prior-service credit
$5,802
$5,841
(a)
Amortization of loss
(3,996
)
(4,712
)
(a)
Total amortization
1,806
1,129
(756
)
(404
)
Income taxes
Total amortization (net of tax)
1,050
725
Total reclassifications for the period (net of tax)
$1,050
$725
(a)
These accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) components are included in the computation of net periodic pension and other postretirement cost. See Note 6 to the financial statements herein for additional details.
NOTE 4. REVOLVING CREDIT FACILITIES, LINES OF CREDIT, SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS, AND LONG-TERM DEBT
(Entergy Corporation, Entergy Arkansas, Entergy Louisiana, Entergy Mississippi, Entergy New Orleans, Entergy Texas, and System Energy)
Entergy Corporation has in place a credit facility that has a borrowing capacity of
$3.5 billion
and expires in August 2022. The facility permits the issuance of letters of credit against
50%
of the total borrowing capacity of the credit facility. The commitment fee is currently
0.225%
of the undrawn commitment amount. Commitment fees and interest rates on loans under the credit facility can fluctuate depending on the senior unsecured debt ratings of Entergy Corporation. The weighted average interest rate for the
nine months ended September 30, 2017
was
2.50%
on the
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Notes to Financial Statements
drawn portion of the facility. Following is a summary of the borrowings outstanding and capacity available under the facility as of
September 30, 2017
.
Capacity
Borrowings
Letters
of Credit
Capacity
Available
(In Millions)
$3,500
$150
$6
$3,344
Entergy Corporation’s credit facility requires Entergy to maintain a consolidated debt ratio, as defined, of
65%
or less of its total capitalization. Entergy is in compliance with this covenant. If Entergy fails to meet this ratio, or if Entergy Corporation or one of the Utility operating companies (except Entergy New Orleans) defaults on other indebtedness or is in bankruptcy or insolvency proceedings, an acceleration of the facility maturity date may occur.
Entergy Corporation has a commercial paper program with a Board-approved program limit of up to
$1.5 billion
. At
September 30, 2017
, Entergy Corporation had
$1.3 billion
of commercial paper outstanding. The weighted-average interest rate for the
nine months ended September 30, 2017
was
1.45%
.
Entergy Arkansas, Entergy Louisiana, Entergy Mississippi, Entergy New Orleans, and Entergy Texas each had credit facilities available as of
September 30, 2017
as follows:
Company
Expiration
Date
Amount of
Facility
Interest Rate (a)
Amount Drawn
as of
September 30, 2017
Letters of Credit
Outstanding as of September 30, 2017
Entergy Arkansas
April 2018
$20 million (b)
2.49%
$—
$—
Entergy Arkansas
August 2022
$150 million (c)
2.49%
$—
$—
Entergy Louisiana
August 2022
$350 million (d)
2.49%
$—
$9.1 million
Entergy Mississippi
May 2018
$37.5 million (e)
2.74%
$—
$—
Entergy Mississippi
May 2018
$35 million (e)
2.74%
$—
$—
Entergy Mississippi
May 2018
$20 million (e)
2.74%
$—
$—
Entergy Mississippi
May 2018
$10 million (e)
2.74%
$—
$—
Entergy New Orleans
November 2018
$25 million (f)
2.71%
$—
$0.8 million
Entergy Texas
August 2022
$150 million (g)
2.74%
$—
$24.4 million
(a)
The interest rate is the rate as of
September 30, 2017
that would most likely apply to outstanding borrowings under the facility.
(b)
Borrowings under the Entergy Arkansas credit facility may be secured by a security interest in its accounts receivable at Entergy Arkansas’s option.
(c)
The credit facility permits the issuance of letters of credit against
50%
of the borrowing capacity of the facility.
(d)
The credit facility permits the issuance of letters of credit against
50%
of the borrowing capacity of the facility.
(e)
Borrowings under the Entergy Mississippi credit facilities may be secured by a security interest in its accounts receivable at Entergy Mississippi’s option.
(f)
The credit facility permits the issuance of letters of credit against
$10 million
of the borrowing capacity of the facility.
(g)
The credit facility permits the issuance of letters of credit against
50%
of the borrowing capacity of the facility.
The commitment fees on the credit facilities range from
0.075%
to
0.275%
of the undrawn commitment amount. Each of the credit facilities requires the Registrant Subsidiary borrower to maintain a debt ratio, as defined, of 65% or less of its total capitalization. Each Registrant Subsidiary is in compliance with this covenant.
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Notes to Financial Statements
In addition, Entergy Arkansas, Entergy Louisiana, Entergy Mississippi, Entergy New Orleans, and Entergy Texas each entered into one or more uncommitted standby letter of credit facilities as a means to post collateral to support its obligations to MISO. Following is a summary of the uncommitted standby letter of credit facilities as of
September 30, 2017
:
Company
Amount of
Uncommitted Facility
Letter of Credit Fee
Letters of Credit
Issued as of
September 30, 2017 (a)
Entergy Arkansas
$25 million
0.70%
$2 million
Entergy Louisiana
$125 million
0.70%
$38.5 million
Entergy Mississippi
$40 million
0.70%
$12.8 million
Entergy New Orleans
$15 million
0.75%
$7.1 million
Entergy Texas
$50 million
0.70%
$19.6 million
(a)
As of September 30, 2017, letters of credit posted with MISO covered financial transmission rights exposure of
$0.2 million
for Entergy Arkansas and
$0.1 million
for Entergy Mississippi. See Note 8 to the financial statements herein for discussion of financial transmission rights.
The short-term borrowings of the Registrant Subsidiaries are limited to amounts authorized by the FERC. The current FERC-authorized limits are effective through October 31, 2019. In addition to borrowings from commercial banks, these companies may also borrow from the Entergy System money pool and from other internal short-term borrowing arrangements. The money pool and the other internal borrowing arrangements are inter-company borrowing arrangements designed to reduce the Utility subsidiaries’ dependence on external short-term borrowings. Borrowings from internal and external short term borrowings combined may not exceed the FERC-authorized limits. The following are the FERC-authorized limits for short-term borrowings and the outstanding short-term borrowings as of
September 30, 2017
(aggregating both internal and external short-term borrowings) for the Registrant Subsidiaries:
Authorized
Borrowings
(In Millions)
Entergy Arkansas
$250
$95
Entergy Louisiana
$450
$—
Entergy Mississippi
$175
$106
Entergy New Orleans
$100
$—
Entergy Texas
$200
$89
System Energy
$200
$—
Entergy Nuclear Vermont Yankee Credit Facilities
Entergy Nuclear Vermont Yankee has a credit facility guaranteed by Entergy Corporation with a borrowing capacity of
$100 million
, which expires in January 2018. Entergy Nuclear Vermont Yankee does not have the ability to issue letters of credit against the credit facility. This facility provides working capital to Entergy Nuclear Vermont Yankee for general business purposes including, without limitation, the decommissioning of Vermont Yankee. The commitment fee is currently
0.20%
of the undrawn commitment amount. As of
September 30, 2017
,
$80 million
in cash borrowings were outstanding under the credit facility. The weighted average interest rate for the nine months ended
September 30, 2017
was
2.56%
on the drawn portion of the facility.
Entergy Nuclear Vermont Yankee also has an uncommitted credit facility guaranteed by Entergy Corporation with a borrowing capacity of
$85 million
, which expires in January 2018. Entergy Nuclear Vermont Yankee does not have the ability to issue letters of credit against the credit facility. This facility provides an additional funding source to Entergy Nuclear Vermont Yankee for general business purposes including, without limitation, the decommissioning of Vermont Yankee. As of
September 30, 2017
, there were no cash borrowings outstanding under the credit facility.
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Entergy Corporation and Subsidiaries
Notes to Financial Statements
The rate as of
September 30, 2017
that would most likely apply to outstanding borrowings under the facility was
2.73%
.
Variable Interest Entities
(Entergy Corporation, Entergy Arkansas, Entergy Louisiana, and System Energy)
See Note 17 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for a discussion of the consolidation of the nuclear fuel company variable interest entities (VIEs). To finance the acquisition and ownership of nuclear fuel, the nuclear fuel company VIEs have credit facilities and three of the four VIEs also issue commercial paper as of
September 30, 2017
as follows:
Company
Expiration
Date
Amount
of
Facility
Weighted Average Interest Rate on Borrowings (a)
Amount
Outstanding as of
September 30, 2017
(Dollars in Millions)
Entergy Arkansas VIE
May 2019
$80
2.49%
$23.3 (b)
Entergy Louisiana River Bend VIE
May 2019
$105
2.33%
$78.8
Entergy Louisiana Waterford VIE
May 2019
$85
2.55%
$76.9 (c)
System Energy VIE
May 2019
$120
2.44%
$81.8 (d)
(a)
Includes letter of credit fees and bank fronting fees on commercial paper issuances by the nuclear fuel company variable interest entities for Entergy Arkansas, Entergy Louisiana, and System Energy. The nuclear fuel company variable interest entity for Entergy Louisiana River Bend does not issue commercial paper, but borrows directly on its bank credit facility.
(b)
Includes borrowings on the credit facility and commercial paper. Commercial paper is classified as a current liability and the amount outstanding for Entergy Arkansas VIE as of September 30, 2017 was
$8.3 million
.
(c)
Includes borrowings on the credit facility and commercial paper. Commercial paper is classified as a current liability and the amount outstanding for Entergy Louisiana Waterford VIE as of September 30, 2017 was
$40.6 million
.
(d)
Includes borrowings on the credit facility and commercial paper. Commercial paper is classified as a current liability and the amount outstanding for System Energy VIE as of September 30, 2017 was
$31.8 million
.
The commitment fees on the credit facilities are
0.10%
of the undrawn commitment amount for the Entergy Arkansas, Entergy Louisiana, and System Energy VIEs. Each credit facility requires the respective lessee of nuclear fuel (Entergy Arkansas, Entergy Louisiana, or Entergy Corporation as guarantor for System Energy) to maintain a consolidated debt ratio, as defined, of
70%
or less of its total capitalization.
The nuclear fuel company variable interest entities had notes payable that are included in debt on the respective balance sheets as of
September 30, 2017
as follows:
Company
Description
Amount
Entergy Arkansas VIE
2.62% Series K due December 2017
$60 million
Entergy Arkansas VIE
3.65% Series L due July 2021
$90 million
Entergy Arkansas VIE
3.17% Series M due December 2023
$40 million
Entergy Louisiana River Bend VIE
3.38% Series R due August 2020
$70 million
Entergy Louisiana Waterford VIE
3.92% Series H due February 2021
$40 million
Entergy Louisiana Waterford VIE
3.22% Series I due December 2023
$20 million
System Energy VIE
3.78% Series I due October 2018
$85 million
In accordance with regulatory treatment, interest on the nuclear fuel company variable interest entities’ credit facilities, commercial paper, and long-term notes payable is reported in fuel expense.
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Notes to Financial Statements
Debt Issuances and Retirements
(Entergy Arkansas)
In May 2017, Entergy Arkansas issued
$220 million
of
3.5%
Series first mortgage bonds due April 2026. These bonds were a further issuance of the 3.5% Series first mortgage bonds issued in January 2016 and June 2016. Entergy Arkansas used a portion of the proceeds from the May 2017 issuance for general corporate purposes and used the remainder of the proceeds to pay, at maturity, its
$54.7 million
of
1.55%
pollution control revenue refunding bonds due October 2017.
(Entergy Louisiana)
In May 2017, Entergy Louisiana issued
$450 million
of
3.12%
collateral trust mortgage bonds due September 2027. Entergy Louisiana used the proceeds to finance the construction of the St. Charles Power Station, to pay, at maturity, its
$45.3 million
of Waterford Series collateral trust mortgage notes, and for general corporate purposes.
In July 2017 the Entergy Louisiana River Bend nuclear fuel company variable interest entity paid, at maturity, its
$75 million
of
3.25%
Series Q notes.
In July 2017 the Entergy Louisiana Waterford nuclear fuel company variable interest entity paid, at maturity, its
$25 million
of
3.25%
Series G notes.
(System Energy)
In February 2017 the System Energy nuclear fuel company variable interest entity paid, at maturity, its
$50 million
of
4.02%
Series H notes.
Fair Value
The book value and the fair value of long-term debt for Entergy Corporation and the Registrant Subsidiaries as of
September 30, 2017
are as follows:
Book Value
of Long-Term Debt
Fair Value
of Long-Term Debt (a) (b)
(In Thousands)
Entergy
$14,846,729
$15,216,502
Entergy Arkansas
$3,063,310
$2,979,162
Entergy Louisiana
$6,167,496
$6,454,620
Entergy Mississippi
$1,121,606
$1,142,048
Entergy New Orleans
$444,310
$468,770
Entergy Texas
$1,451,643
$1,533,790
System Energy
$551,391
$533,855
(a)
The values exclude lease obligations of
$34 million
at System Energy and long-term DOE obligations of
$183 million
at Entergy Arkansas, and include debt due within one year.
(b)
Fair values are classified as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy discussed in Note 8 to the financial statements herein and are based on prices derived from inputs such as benchmark yields and reported trades.
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Notes to Financial Statements
The book value and the fair value of long-term debt for Entergy Corporation and the Registrant Subsidiaries as of
December 31, 2016
were as follows:
Book Value
of Long-Term Debt
Fair Value
of Long-Term Debt (a) (b)
(In Thousands)
Entergy
$14,832,555
$14,815,535
Entergy Arkansas
$2,829,785
$2,623,910
Entergy Louisiana
$5,812,791
$5,929,488
Entergy Mississippi
$1,120,916
$1,086,203
Entergy New Orleans
$448,994
$455,459
Entergy Texas
$1,508,407
$1,600,156
System Energy
$551,132
$529,520
(a)
The values exclude lease obligations of
$57 million
at Entergy Louisiana and
$34 million
at System Energy and long-term DOE obligations of
$182 million
at Entergy Arkansas, and include debt due within one year.
(b)
Fair values are classified as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy discussed in Note 8 to the financial statements herein and are based on prices derived from inputs such as benchmark yields and reported trades.
NOTE 5. STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION (Entergy Corporation)
Entergy grants stock and stock-based awards, which are described more fully in Note 12 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K. Awards under Entergy’s plans generally vest over
three
years.
Effective January 1, 2017, Entergy adopted ASU 2016-09, which permits the election of an accounting policy change to the method of recognizing forfeitures of stock-based compensation. Previously, Entergy recorded an estimate of the number of forfeitures expected to occur each period. Entergy elected to change this policy to account for forfeitures when they occur. This accounting change was applied retrospectively, but did not result in an adjustment to retained earnings as of January 1, 2017.
Stock Options
Entergy granted options on
791,900
shares of its common stock under the 2015 Equity Ownership Plan during the first quarter 2017 with a weighted-average fair value of
$6.54
per option. As of
September 30, 2017
, there were options on
6,055,226
shares of common stock outstanding with a weighted-average exercise price of
$81.85
. The intrinsic value, which has no effect on net income, of the outstanding stock options is calculated by the positive difference between the weighted average exercise price of the stock options granted and Entergy Corporation’s common stock price as of
September 30, 2017
. Because Entergy’s common stock price at
September 30, 2017
was less than the weighted average exercise price, the aggregate intrinsic value of the stock options outstanding as of
September 30, 2017
was zero. The intrinsic value of all “in the money” stock options was
$19.7 million
as of
September 30, 2017
.
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Entergy Corporation and Subsidiaries
Notes to Financial Statements
The following table includes financial information for outstanding stock options for the
three months ended September 30, 2017
and
2016
:
2017
2016
(In Millions)
Compensation expense included in Entergy’s net income
$1.1
$1.1
Tax benefit recognized in Entergy’s net income
$0.5
$0.5
Compensation cost capitalized as part of fixed assets and inventory
$0.2
$0.2
The following table includes financial information for outstanding stock options for the
nine months ended September 30, 2017
and
2016
:
2017
2016
(In Millions)
Compensation expense included in Entergy’s net income
$3.3
$3.3
Tax benefit recognized in Entergy’s net income
$1.3
$1.3
Compensation cost capitalized as part of fixed assets and inventory
$0.6
$0.6
Other Equity Awards
In January 2017 the Board approved and Entergy granted
379,850
restricted stock awards and
220,450
long-term incentive awards under the 2015 Equity Ownership Plan. The restricted stock awards were made effective as of January 26, 2017 and were valued at
$70.53
per share, which was the closing price of Entergy’s common stock on that date. One-third of the restricted stock awards will vest upon each anniversary of the grant date. In addition, long-term incentive awards were granted in the form of performance units that represent the value of, and are settled with, one share of Entergy Corporation common stock at the end of the three-year performance period, plus dividends accrued during the performance period on the number of performance units earned. The performance units were granted effective as of January 26, 2017 and were valued at
$71.40
per share. Entergy considers various factors, primarily market conditions, in determining the value of the performance units. Shares of restricted stock have the same dividend and voting rights as other common stock, are considered issued and outstanding shares of Entergy upon vesting, and are expensed ratably over the
3
-year vesting period. Performance units have the same dividend rights as shares of Entergy common stock, are considered issued and outstanding shares of Entergy upon vesting, and are expensed ratably over the
3
-year vesting period.
The following table includes financial information for other outstanding equity awards for the
three months ended September 30, 2017
and
2016
:
2017
2016
(In Millions)
Compensation expense included in Entergy’s net income
$7.6
$8.5
Tax benefit recognized in Entergy’s net income
$3.0
$3.3
Compensation cost capitalized as part of fixed assets and inventory
$2.1
$2.0
The following table includes financial information for other outstanding equity awards for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
and
2016
:
2017
2016
(In Millions)
Compensation expense included in Entergy’s net income
$24.1
$25.4
Tax benefit recognized in Entergy’s net income
$9.3
$9.8
Compensation cost capitalized as part of fixed assets and inventory
$6.3
$5.7
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Entergy Corporation and Subsidiaries
Notes to Financial Statements
NOTE 6. RETIREMENT AND OTHER POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS (Entergy Corporation, Entergy Arkansas, Entergy Louisiana, Entergy Mississippi, Entergy New Orleans, Entergy Texas, and System Energy)
Components of Qualified Net Pension Cost
Entergy’s qualified pension cost, including amounts capitalized, for the third quarters of 2017 and 2016, included the following components:
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
Service cost - benefits earned during the period
$33,410
$35,811
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation
65,206
65,403
Expected return on assets
(102,056
)
(97,366
)
Amortization of prior service cost
65
270
Amortization of loss
56,930
48,824
Net pension costs
$53,555
$52,942
Entergy’s qualified pension cost, including amounts capitalized, for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016, included the following components:
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
Service cost - benefits earned during the period
$100,230
$107,433
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation
195,618
196,209
Expected return on assets
(306,168
)
(292,098
)
Amortization of prior service cost
195
810
Amortization of loss
170,790
146,472
Net pension costs
$160,665
$158,826
The Registrant Subsidiaries’ qualified pension cost, including amounts capitalized, for their employees for the third quarters of 2017 and 2016, included the following components:
2017
Entergy
Arkansas
Entergy
Louisiana
Entergy
Mississippi
Entergy
New Orleans
Entergy
Texas
System
Energy
(In Thousands)
Service cost - benefits earned during the period
$5,090
$6,925
$1,472
$625
$1,364
$1,536
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation
12,944
14,809
3,732
1,791
3,392
3,091
Expected return on assets
(20,427
)
(23,017
)
(6,131
)
(2,800
)
(6,180
)
(4,663
)
Amortization of loss
11,640
12,354
3,053
1,658
2,310
2,964
Net pension cost
$9,247
$11,071
$2,126
$1,274
$886
$2,928
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Entergy Corporation and Subsidiaries
Notes to Financial Statements
2016
Entergy
Arkansas
Entergy
Louisiana
Entergy
Mississippi
Entergy
New Orleans
Entergy
Texas
System
Energy
(In Thousands)
Service cost - benefits earned during the period
$5,181
$7,049
$1,562
$656
$1,416
$1,566
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation
13,055
14,870
3,811
1,814
3,557
2,992
Expected return on assets
(19,772
)
(22,096
)
(5,981
)
(2,687
)
(6,062
)
(4,459
)
Amortization of loss
10,936
11,946
2,985
1,615
2,340
2,604
Net pension cost
$9,400
$11,769
$2,377
$1,398
$1,251
$2,703
The Registrant Subsidiaries’ qualified pension cost, including amounts capitalized, for their employees for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016, included the following components:
2017
Entergy
Arkansas
Entergy
Louisiana
Entergy
Mississippi
Entergy
New Orleans
Entergy
Texas
System
Energy
(In Thousands)
Service cost - benefits earned during the period
$15,270
$20,775
$4,416
$1,875
$4,092
$4,608
Interest cost on projects benefit obligation
38,832
44,427
11,196
5,373
10,176
9,273
Expected return on assets
(61,281
)
(69,051
)
(18,393
)
(8,400
)
(18,540
)
(13,989
)
Amortization of loss
34,920
37,062
9,159
4,974
6,930
8,892
Net pension cost
$27,741
$33,213
$6,378
$3,822
$2,658
$8,784
2016
Entergy
Arkansas
Entergy
Louisiana
Entergy
Mississippi
Entergy
New Orleans
Entergy
Texas
System
Energy
(In Thousands)
Service cost - benefits earned during the period
$15,543
$21,147
$4,686
$1,968
$4,248
$4,698
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation
39,165
44,610
11,433
5,442
10,671
8,976
Expected return on assets
(59,316
)
(66,288
)
(17,943
)
(8,061
)
(18,186
)
(13,377
)
Amortization of loss
32,808
35,838
8,955
4,845
7,020
7,812
Net pension cost
$28,200
$35,307
$7,131
$4,194
$3,753
$8,109
Non-Qualified Net Pension Cost
Entergy recognized
$15.8 million
and
$8 million
in pension cost for its non-qualified pension plans in the
third
quarters of
2017
and
2016
, respectively. Reflected in the pension cost for non-qualified pension plans in the third quarters of 2017 and 2016, respectively, is a
$11.6 million
and
$3.7 million
settlement charge related to the payment of lump sum benefits out of the plan. Entergy recognized
$28.9 million
and
$16.5 million
in pensions costs for its non-qualified pension plans for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively. Reflected in the pension cost for non-qualified pension plans for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively, is a
$15.5 million
and
$3.7 million
settlement charge related to the payment of lump sum benefits out of this plan.
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Notes to Financial Statements
The Registrant Subsidiaries recognized the following pension cost for their employees for their non-qualified pension plans in the third quarters of 2017 and 2016:
Entergy
Arkansas
Entergy
Louisiana
Entergy
Mississippi
Entergy
New Orleans
Entergy
Texas
(In Thousands)
2017
$111
$46
$62
$18
$124
2016
$105
$58
$60
$16
$126
Reflected in Entergy Arkansas’s non-qualified pension costs in the third quarter of 2017 is
$10 thousand
in settlement charges related to the payment of lump sum benefits out of the plan.
The Registrant Subsidiaries recognized the following pension cost for their employees for their non-qualified pension plans for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016:
Entergy
Arkansas
Entergy
Louisiana
Entergy
Mississippi
Entergy
New Orleans
Entergy
Texas
(In Thousands)
2017
$483
$141
$189
$55
$377
2016
$317
$176
$179
$48
$380
Reflected in Entergy Arkansas’s non-qualified pension costs for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 is
$173 thousand
in settlement charges related to the payment of lump sum benefits out of this plan.
Components of Net Other Postretirement Benefit Cost
Entergy’s other postretirement benefit cost, including amounts capitalized, for the third quarters of 2017 and 2016, included the following components:
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
Service cost - benefits earned during the period
$6,729
$8,073
Interest cost on accumulated postretirement benefit obligation (APBO)
13,960
14,083
Expected return on assets
(9,408
)
(10,455
)
Amortization of prior service credit
(10,356
)
(11,373
)
Amortization of loss
5,476
4,554
Net other postretirement benefit cost
$6,401
$4,882
Entergy’s other postretirement benefit cost, including amounts capitalized, for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016, included the following components:
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
Service cost - benefits earned during the period
$20,187
$24,219
Interest cost on accumulated postretirement benefit obligation (APBO)
41,880
42,249
Expected return on assets
(28,224
)
(31,365
)
Amortization of prior service credit
(31,068
)
(34,119
)
Amortization of loss
16,428
13,662
Net other postretirement benefit cost
$19,203
$14,646
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Entergy Corporation and Subsidiaries
Notes to Financial Statements
The Registrant Subsidiaries’ other postretirement benefit cost, including amounts capitalized, for their employees for the third quarters of 2017 and 2016, included the following components:
2017
Entergy
Arkansas
Entergy
Louisiana
Entergy
Mississippi
Entergy
New Orleans
Entergy
Texas
System
Energy
(In Thousands)
Service cost - benefits earned during the period
$863
$1,593
$290
$142
$372
$320
Interest cost on APBO
2,255
3,025
690
469
1,124
559
Expected return on assets
(3,959
)
—
(1,200
)
(1,159
)
(2,180
)
(717
)
Amortization of prior service credit
(1,278
)
(1,934
)
(456
)
(186
)
(579
)
(378
)
Amortization of loss
1,115
465
419
105
826
390
Net other postretirement benefit cost
($1,004
)
$3,149
($257
)
($629
)
($437
)
$174
2016
Entergy
Arkansas
Entergy
Louisiana
Entergy
Mississippi
Entergy
New Orleans
Entergy
Texas
System
Energy
(In Thousands)
Service cost - benefits earned during the period
$978
$1,869
$386
$156
$398
$334
Interest cost on APBO
2,324
3,260
709
448
1,039
529
Expected return on assets
(4,464
)
—
(1,379
)
(1,154
)
(2,394
)
(814
)
Amortization of prior service credit
(1,368
)
(1,947
)
(234
)
(186
)
(681
)
(393
)
Amortization of loss
1,064
732
223
37
537
287
Net other postretirement benefit cost
($1,466
)
$3,914
($295
)
($699
)
($1,101
)
($57
)
The Registrant Subsidiaries’ other postretirement benefit cost, including amounts capitalized, for their employees for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016, included the following components:
2017
Entergy
Arkansas
Entergy
Louisiana
Entergy
Mississippi
Entergy
New Orleans
Entergy
Texas
System
Energy
(In Thousands)
Service cost - benefits earned during the period
$2,589
$4,779
$870
$426
$1,116
$960
Interest cost on APBO
6,765
9,075
2,070
1,407
3,372
1,677
Expected return on assets
(11,877
)
—
(3,600
)
(3,477
)
(6,540
)
(2,151
)
Amortization of prior service credit
(3,834
)
(5,802
)
(1,368
)
(558
)
(1,737
)
(1,134
)
Amortization of loss
3,345
1,395
1,257
315
2,478
1,170
Net other postretirement benefit cost
($3,012
)
$9,447
($771
)
($1,887
)
($1,311
)
$522
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Entergy Corporation and Subsidiaries
Notes to Financial Statements
2016
Entergy
Arkansas
Entergy
Louisiana
Entergy
Mississippi
Entergy
New Orleans
Entergy
Texas
System
Energy
(In Thousands)
Service cost - benefits earned during the period
$2,934
$5,607
$1,158
$468
$1,194
$1,002
Interest cost on APBO
6,972
9,780
2,127
1,344
3,117
1,587
Expected return on assets
(13,392
)
—
(4,137
)
(3,462
)
(7,182
)
(2,442
)
Amortization of prior service credit
(4,104
)
(5,841
)
(702
)
(558
)
(2,043
)
(1,179
)
Amortization of loss
3,192
2,196
669
111
1,611
861
Net other postretirement benefit cost
($4,398
)
$11,742
($885
)
($2,097
)
($3,303
)
($171
)
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Entergy and Entergy Louisiana reclassified the following costs out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (before taxes and including amounts capitalized) for the third quarters of 2017 and 2016:
2017
Qualified
Pension
Costs
Other
Postretirement
Costs
Non-Qualified
Pension Costs
Total
(In Thousands)
Entergy
Amortization of prior service (cost)/credit
($65
)
$6,718
($88
)
$6,565
Amortization of loss
(18,451
)
(2,202
)
(827
)
(21,480
)
Settlement loss
—
—
(4,200
)
(4,200
)
($18,516
)
$4,516
($5,115
)
($19,115
)
Entergy Louisiana
Amortization of prior service credit
$—
$1,934
$—
$1,934
Amortization of loss
(865
)
(465
)
(2
)
(1,332
)
($865
)
$1,469
($2
)
$602
2016
Qualified
Pension
Costs
Other
Postretirement
Costs
Non-Qualified
Pension Costs
Total
(In Thousands)
Entergy
Amortization of prior service (cost)/credit
($270
)
$7,738
($114
)
$7,354
Amortization of loss
(12,482
)
(2,063
)
(638
)
(15,183
)
Settlement loss
—
—
(1,279
)
(1,279
)
($12,752
)
$5,675
($2,031
)
($9,108
)
Entergy Louisiana
Amortization of prior service credit
$—
$1,947
$—
$1,947
Amortization of loss
(836
)
(732
)
(2
)
(1,570
)
($836
)
$1,215
($2
)
$377
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Notes to Financial Statements
Entergy and Entergy Louisiana reclassified the following costs out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (before taxes and including amounts capitalized) for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016:
2017
Qualified
Pension
Costs
Other
Postretirement
Costs
Non-Qualified
Pension Costs
Total
(In Thousands)
Entergy
Amortization of prior service (cost)/credit
($195
)
$20,152
($266
)
$19,691
Amortization of loss
(55,351
)
(6,606
)
(2,648
)
(64,605
)
Settlement loss
—
—
(5,965
)
(5,965
)
($55,546
)
$13,546
($8,879
)
($50,879
)
Entergy Louisiana
Amortization of prior service credit
$—
$5,802
$—
$5,802
Amortization of loss
(2,594
)
(1,395
)
(7
)
(3,996
)
($2,594
)
$4,407
($7
)
$1,806
2016
Qualified
Pension
Costs
Other
Postretirement
Costs
Non-Qualified
Pension Costs
Total
(In Thousands)
Entergy
Amortization of prior service (cost)/credit
($810
)
$23,214
($340
)
$22,064
Amortization of loss
(37,446
)
(6,189
)
(1,900
)
(45,535
)
Settlement loss
—
—
(1,279
)
(1,279
)
($38,256
)
$17,025
($3,519
)
($24,750
)
Entergy Louisiana
Amortization of prior service credit
$—
$5,841
$—
$5,841
Amortization of loss
(2,508
)
(2,196
)
(8
)
(4,712
)
($2,508
)
$3,645
($8
)
$1,129
Employer Contributions
Based on current assumptions, Entergy expects to contribute
$409.9 million
to its qualified pension plans in 2017. As of
September 30, 2017
, Entergy had contributed
$318 million
to its pension plans. Based on current assumptions, the Registrant Subsidiaries expect to contribute the following to qualified pension plans for their employees in
2017
:
Entergy
Arkansas
Entergy
Louisiana
Entergy
Mississippi
Entergy
New Orleans
Entergy
Texas
System
Energy
(In Thousands)
Expected 2017 pension contributions
$79,725
$86,728
$19,063
$9,842
$16,908
$18,307
Pension contributions made through September 2017
$62,252
$67,993
$14,922
$7,832
$13,131
$14,498
Remaining estimated pension contributions to be made in 2017
$17,473
$18,735
$4,141
$2,010
$3,777
$3,809
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Notes to Financial Statements
NOTE 7. BUSINESS SEGMENT INFORMATION (Entergy Corporation, Entergy Arkansas, Entergy Louisiana, Entergy Mississippi, Entergy New Orleans, Entergy Texas, and System Energy)
Entergy Corporation
Entergy’s reportable segments as of
September 30, 2017
are Utility and Entergy Wholesale Commodities. Utility includes the generation, transmission, distribution, and sale of electric power in portions of Arkansas, Mississippi, Texas, and Louisiana, including the City of New Orleans; and operation of a small natural gas distribution business. Entergy Wholesale Commodities includes the ownership, operation, and decommissioning of nuclear power plants located in the northern United States and the sale of the electric power produced by its operating plants to wholesale customers. Entergy Wholesale Commodities also provides services to other nuclear power plant owners and owns interests in non-nuclear power plants that sell the electric power produced by those plants to wholesale customers. “All Other” includes the parent company, Entergy Corporation, and other business activity.
Entergy’s segment financial information for the third quarters of
2017
and
2016
is as follows:
Utility
Entergy
Wholesale
Commodities
All Other
Eliminations
Entergy
(In Thousands)
2017
Operating revenues
$2,820,421
$423,245
$—
($38
)
$3,243,628
Income taxes
$230,647
$25,563
($14,415
)
$—
$241,795
Consolidated net income (loss)
$403,733
$55,765
($25,956
)
($31,898
)
$401,644
2016
Operating revenues
$2,649,392
$475,345
$—
($34
)
$3,124,703
Income taxes
$255,603
$6,115
($3,812
)
$—
$257,906
Consolidated net income (loss)
$447,782
$8,221
($30,901
)
($31,898
)
$393,204
Entergy’s segment financial information for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
and
2016
is as follows:
Utility
Entergy
Wholesale
Commodities
All Other
Eliminations
Entergy
(In Thousands)
2017
Operating revenues
$7,156,865
$1,293,867
$—
($96
)
$8,450,636
Income taxes
$459,990
($507,719
)
($39,826
)
$—
($87,555
)
Consolidated net income (loss)
$817,738
$252,455
($73,434
)
($95,695
)
$901,064
Total assets as of September 30, 2017
$42,669,606
$5,630,207
$985,466
($2,886,837
)
$46,398,442
2016
Operating revenues
$6,855,664
$1,341,534
$—
($80
)
$8,197,118
Income taxes
$359,653
($176,626
)
($34,148
)
$—
$148,879
Consolidated net income (loss)
$1,027,751
$338,651
($69,672
)
($95,695
)
$1,201,035
Total assets as of December 31, 2016
$41,098,751
$6,696,038
$1,283,816
($3,174,171
)
$45,904,434
The Entergy Wholesale Commodities business is sometimes referred to as the “competitive businesses.” Eliminations are primarily intersegment activity. Almost all of Entergy’s goodwill is related to the Utility segment.
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Notes to Financial Statements
As discussed in Note 13 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K, Entergy management has undertaken a strategy to manage and reduce the risk of the Entergy Wholesale Commodities business, which includes taking actions to reduce the size of the merchant fleet. These decisions and transactions resulted in asset impairments; employee retention and severance expenses and other benefits-related costs; and contracted economic development contributions in 2016.
Additional restructuring charges for the third quarter 2017 were comprised of the following:
Employee retention and severance
expenses and other benefits-related costs
Contracted economic development costs
Total
(In Millions)
Balance as of July 1, 2017
$36
$21
$57
Restructuring costs accrued
23
—
23
Non-cash portion
—
(7
)
(7
)
Balance as of September 30, 2017
$59
$14
$73
In addition, Entergy incurred
$16 million
of impairment charges in the third quarter 2017 related to nuclear fuel spending, nuclear refueling outage spending, and expenditures for capital assets. These costs are charged to expense as incurred as a result of the impaired value of the Entergy Wholesale Commodities nuclear plants’ long-lived assets due to the significantly reduced remaining estimated operating lives associated with management’s strategy to reduce the size of the Entergy Wholesale Commodities’ merchant fleet.
Additional restructuring charges for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 were comprised of the following:
Employee retention and severance
expenses and other benefits-related costs
Contracted economic development costs
Total
(In Millions)
Balance as of January 1, 2017
$70
$21
$91
Restructuring costs accrued
89
—
89
Non-cash portion
—
(7
)
(7
)
Cash paid out
100
—
100
Balance as of September 30, 2017
$59
$14
$73
In addition, Entergy incurred
$422 million
of impairment charges in the nine months ended September 30, 2017 related to nuclear fuel spending, nuclear refueling outage spending, and expenditures for capital assets.
Registrant Subsidiaries
Each of the Registrant Subsidiaries has one reportable segment, which is an integrated utility business, except for System Energy, which is an electricity generation business. Each of the Registrant Subsidiaries’ operations is managed on an integrated basis by that company because of the substantial effect of cost-based rates and regulatory oversight on the business process, cost structures, and operating results.
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NOTE 8. RISK MANAGEMENT AND FAIR VALUES (Entergy Corporation, Entergy Arkansas, Entergy Louisiana, Entergy Mississippi, Entergy New Orleans, Entergy Texas, and System Energy)
Market Risk
In the normal course of business, Entergy is exposed to a number of market risks. Market risk is the potential loss that Entergy may incur as a result of changes in the market or fair value of a particular commodity or instrument. All financial and commodity-related instruments, including derivatives, are subject to market risk including commodity price risk, equity price, and interest rate risk. Entergy uses derivatives primarily to mitigate commodity price risk, particularly power price and fuel price risk.
The Utility has limited exposure to the effects of market risk because it operates primarily under cost-based rate regulation. To the extent approved by their retail regulators, the Utility operating companies use derivative instruments to hedge the exposure to price volatility inherent in their purchased power, fuel, and gas purchased for resale costs that are recovered from customers.
As a wholesale generator, Entergy Wholesale Commodities’ core business is selling energy, measured in MWh, to its customers. Entergy Wholesale Commodities enters into forward contracts with its customers and also sells energy and capacity in the day ahead or spot markets. In addition to its forward physical power and gas contracts, Entergy Wholesale Commodities also uses a combination of financial contracts, including swaps, collars, and options, to mitigate commodity price risk. When the market price falls, the combination of instruments is expected to settle in gains that offset lower revenue from generation, which results in a more predictable cash flow.
Entergy’s exposure to market risk is determined by a number of factors, including the size, term, composition, and diversification of positions held, as well as market volatility and liquidity. For instruments such as options, the time period during which the option may be exercised and the relationship between the current market price of the underlying instrument and the option’s contractual strike or exercise price also affects the level of market risk. A significant factor influencing the overall level of market risk to which Entergy is exposed is its use of hedging techniques to mitigate such risk. Hedging instruments and volumes are chosen based on ability to mitigate risk associated with future energy and capacity prices; however, other considerations are factored into hedge product and volume decisions including corporate liquidity, corporate credit ratings, counterparty credit risk, hedging costs, firm settlement risk, and product availability in the marketplace. Entergy manages market risk by actively monitoring compliance with stated risk management policies as well as monitoring the effectiveness of its hedging policies and strategies. Entergy’s risk management policies limit the amount of total net exposure and rolling net exposure during the stated periods. These policies, including related risk limits, are regularly assessed to ensure their appropriateness given Entergy’s objectives.
Derivatives
Some derivative instruments are classified as cash flow hedges due to their financial settlement provisions while others are classified as normal purchase/normal sale transactions due to their physical settlement provisions. Normal purchase/normal sale risk management tools include power purchase and sales agreements, fuel purchase agreements, capacity contracts, and tolling agreements. Financially-settled cash flow hedges can include natural gas and electricity swaps and options and interest rate swaps. Entergy may enter into financially-settled swap and option contracts to manage market risk that may or may not be designated as hedging instruments.
Entergy enters into derivatives to manage natural risks inherent in its physical or financial assets or liabilities. Electricity over-the-counter instruments and futures contracts that financially settle against day-ahead power pool prices are used to manage price exposure for Entergy Wholesale Commodities generation. The maximum length of time over which Entergy Wholesale Commodities is currently hedging the variability in future cash flows with derivatives for forecasted power transactions at
September 30, 2017
is approximately
3.5
years. Planned generation currently under contract from Entergy Wholesale Commodities nuclear power plants is
88%
for the remainder of
2017
,
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of which approximately
31%
is sold under financial derivatives and the remainder under normal purchase/normal sale contracts. Total planned generation for the remainder of
2017
is
7.6
TWh.
Entergy may use standardized master netting agreements to help mitigate the credit risk of derivative instruments. These master agreements facilitate the netting of cash flows associated with a single counterparty and may include collateral requirements. Cash, letters of credit, and parental/affiliate guarantees may be obtained as security from counterparties in order to mitigate credit risk. The collateral agreements require a counterparty to post cash or letters of credit in the event an exposure exceeds an established threshold. The threshold represents an unsecured credit limit, which may be supported by a parental/affiliate guaranty, as determined in accordance with Entergy’s credit policy. In addition, collateral agreements allow for termination and liquidation of all positions in the event of a failure or inability to post collateral.
Certain of the agreements to sell the power produced by Entergy Wholesale Commodities power plants contain provisions that require an Entergy subsidiary to provide credit support to secure its obligations depending on the mark-to-market values of the contracts. The primary form of credit support to satisfy these requirements is an Entergy Corporation guarantee. As of
September 30, 2017
, there were no derivative contracts with counterparties in a liability position. In addition to the corporate guarantee,
$1 million
in cash collateral was required to be posted by the Entergy subsidiary to its counterparties and
$4 million
in cash collateral and
$28 million
in letters of credit were required to be posted by its counterparties to the Entergy subsidiary. As of
December 31, 2016
, derivative contracts with
three
counterparties were in a liability position (approximately
$8 million
total). In addition to the corporate guarantee,
$2 million
in cash collateral was required to be posted by the Entergy subsidiary to its counterparties. If the Entergy Corporation credit rating falls below investment grade, Entergy would have to post collateral equal to the estimated outstanding liability under the contract at the applicable date.
Entergy manages fuel price volatility for its Louisiana jurisdictions (Entergy Louisiana and Entergy New Orleans) and Entergy Mississippi through the purchase of short-term natural gas swaps that financially settle against NYMEX futures. These swaps are marked-to-market through fuel expense with offsetting regulatory assets or liabilities. All benefits or costs of the program are recorded in fuel costs. The notional volumes of these swaps are based on a portion of projected annual exposure to gas for electric generation at Entergy Louisiana and Entergy Mississippi and projected winter purchases for gas distribution at Entergy Louisiana and Entergy New Orleans. The total volume of natural gas swaps outstanding as of
September 30, 2017
is
27,702,900
MMBtu for Entergy, including
21,673,200
MMBtu for Entergy Louisiana,
5,042,700
MMBtu for Entergy Mississippi, and
987,000
MMBtu for Entergy New Orleans. Credit support for these natural gas swaps is covered by master agreements that do not require collateral based on mark-to-market value, but do carry adequate assurance language that may lead to requests for collateral.
During the second quarter 2017, Entergy participated in the annual financial transmission rights auction process for the MISO planning year of June 1, 2017 through May 31, 2018. Financial transmission rights are derivative instruments which represent economic hedges of future congestion charges that will be incurred in serving Entergy’s customer load. They are not designated as hedging instruments. Entergy initially records financial transmission rights at their estimated fair value and subsequently adjusts the carrying value to their estimated fair value at the end of each accounting period prior to settlement. Unrealized gains or losses on financial transmission rights held by Entergy Wholesale Commodities are included in operating revenues. The Utility operating companies recognize regulatory liabilities or assets for unrealized gains or losses on financial transmission rights. The total volume of financial transmission rights outstanding as of
September 30, 2017
is
75,621
GWh for Entergy, including
17,014
GWh for Entergy Arkansas,
33,700
GWh for Entergy Louisiana,
10,214
GWh for Entergy Mississippi,
3,839
GWh for Entergy New Orleans, and
10,326
GWh for Entergy Texas. Credit support for financial transmission rights held by the Utility operating companies is covered by cash and/or letters of credit issued by each Utility operating company as required by MISO. Credit support for financial transmission rights held by Entergy Wholesale Commodities is covered by cash. No cash or letters of credit were required to be posted for financial transmission rights exposure for Entergy Wholesale Commodities as of September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016. Letters of credit posted with MISO covered the financial transmission rights exposure for Entergy Arkansas and Entergy Mississippi as of September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016.
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The fair values of Entergy’s derivative instruments in the consolidated balance sheet as of
September 30, 2017
are shown in the table below. Certain investments, including those not designated as hedging instruments, are subject to master netting agreements and are presented in the balance sheet on a net basis in accordance with accounting guidance for derivatives and hedging.
Instrument
Balance Sheet Location
Fair Value (a)
Offset (b)
Net (c) (d)
Business
(In Millions)
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments
Assets:
Electricity swaps and options
Prepayments and other (current portion)
$52
($22)
$30
Entergy Wholesale Commodities
Electricity swaps and options
Other deferred debits and other assets (non-current portion)
$29
($7)
$22
Entergy Wholesale Commodities
Liabilities:
Electricity swaps and options
Other current liabilities
(current portion)
$17
($17)
$—
Entergy Wholesale Commodities
Electricity swaps and options
Other non-current liabilities (non-current portion)
$7
($7)
$—
Entergy Wholesale Commodities
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
Assets:
Electricity swaps and options
Prepayments and other (current portion)
$11
($3)
$8
Entergy Wholesale Commodities
Electricity swaps and options
Other deferred debits and other assets (non-current portion)
$1
($1)
$—
Entergy Wholesale Commodities
Financial transmission rights
Prepayments and other
$39
($2)
$37
Utility and Entergy Wholesale Commodities
Liabilities:
Electricity swaps and options
Other current liabilities(current portion)
$8
($8)
$—
Entergy Wholesale Commodities
Electricity swaps and options
Other non-current liabilities (non-current portion)
$1
($1)
$—
Entergy Wholesale Commodities
Natural gas swaps
Other current liabilities
$1
$—
$1
Utility
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The fair values of Entergy’s derivative instruments in the consolidated balance sheet as of
December 31, 2016
are shown in the table below. Certain investments, including those not designated as hedging instruments, are subject to master netting agreements and are presented in the balance sheet on a net basis in accordance with accounting guidance for derivatives and hedging.
Instrument
Balance Sheet Location
Fair Value (a)
Offset (b)
Net (c) (d)
Business
(In Millions)
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments
Assets:
Electricity swaps and options
Prepayments and other (current portion)
$25
($14)
$11
Entergy Wholesale Commodities
Electricity swaps and options
Other deferred debits and other assets (non-current portion)
$6
($6)
$—
Entergy Wholesale Commodities
Liabilities:
Electricity swaps and options
Other current liabilities (current portion)
$11
($10)
$1
Entergy Wholesale Commodities
Electricity swaps and options
Other non-current liabilities (non-current portion)
$16
($7)
$9
Entergy Wholesale Commodities
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
Assets:
Electricity swaps and options
Prepayments and other (current portion)
$18
($13)
$5
Entergy Wholesale Commodities
Electricity swaps and options
Other deferred debits and other assets (non-current portion)
$5
($5)
$—
Entergy Wholesale Commodities
Natural gas swaps
Prepayments and other
$13
$—
$13
Utility
Financial transmission rights
Prepayments and other
$22
($1)
$21
Utility and Entergy Wholesale Commodities
Liabilities:
Electricity swaps and options
Other current liabilities (current portion)
$18
($17)
$1
Entergy Wholesale Commodities
Electricity swaps and options
Other non-current liabilities (non-current portion)
$4
($4)
$—
Entergy Wholesale Commodities
(a)
Represents the gross amounts of recognized assets/liabilities
(b)
Represents the netting of fair value balances with the same counterparty
(c)
Represents the net amounts of assets/liabilities presented on the Entergy Corporation and Subsidiaries’ Consolidated Balance Sheet
(d)
Excludes cash collateral in the amount of
$1 million
posted and
$4 million
held as of September 30, 2017 and
$2 million
posted as of December 31, 2016. Also excludes
$28 million
in letters of credit held as of September 30, 2017.
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The effects of Entergy’s derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges on the consolidated income statements for the three months ended
September 30, 2017
and
2016
are as follows:
Instrument
Amount of gain
recognized in other
comprehensive income
Income Statement location
Amount of gain
reclassified from
accumulated other comprehensive income into income (a)
(In Millions)
(In Millions)
2017
Electricity swaps and options
$43
Competitive businesses operating revenues
$23
2016
Electricity swaps and options
$70
Competitive businesses operating revenues
$37
(a)
Before taxes of
$8 million
and
$13 million
for the three months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively
The effects of Entergy’s derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges on the consolidated income statements for the nine months ended
September 30, 2017
and
2016
are as follows:
Instrument
Amount of gain
recognized in other
comprehensive income
Income Statement location
Amount of gain
reclassified from
accumulated other comprehensive income into income (a)
(In Millions)
(In Millions)
2017
Electricity swaps and options
$136
Competitive businesses operating revenues
$87
2016
Electricity swaps and options
$156
Competitive businesses operating revenues
$237
(a)
Before taxes of
$30 million
and
$83 million
for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively
At each reporting period, Entergy measures its hedges for ineffectiveness. Any ineffectiveness is recognized in earnings during the period. The ineffective portion of cash flow hedges is recorded in competitive business operating revenues. The change in fair value of Entergy’s cash flow hedges due to ineffectiveness during the
three months ended September 30, 2017
and
2016
was
$2.4 million
and
$6.4 million
, respectively. The change in fair value of Entergy’s cash flow hedges due to ineffectiveness during the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016 was
$6.4 million
and
$6.1 million
, respectively.
Based on market prices as of
September 30, 2017
, unrealized gains recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income on cash flow hedges relating to power sales totaled
$59 million
of net unrealized gains. Approximately
$37 million
is expected to be reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income to
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operating revenues in the next twelve months. The actual amount reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income, however, could vary due to future changes in market prices.
Entergy may effectively liquidate a cash flow hedge instrument by entering into a contract offsetting the original hedge, and then de-designating the original hedge in this situation. Gains or losses accumulated in other comprehensive income prior to de-designation continue to be deferred in other comprehensive income until they are included in income as the original hedged transaction occurs. From the point of de-designation, the gains or losses on the original hedge and the offsetting contract are recorded as assets or liabilities on the balance sheet and offset as they flow through to earnings.
The effects of Entergy’s derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments on the consolidated income statements for the three months ended
September 30, 2017
and
2016
are as follows:
Instrument
Amount of loss recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income
Income Statement
location
Amount of gain (loss)
recorded in the income statement
(In Millions)
(In Millions)
2017
Natural gas swaps
$—
Fuel, fuel-related expenses, and gas purchased for resale
(a)
($3)
Financial transmission rights
$—
Purchased power expense
(b)
$28
Electricity swaps and options
($2)
(c)
Competitive business operating revenues
$—
2016
Natural gas swaps
$—
Fuel, fuel-related expenses, and gas purchased for resale
(a)
$25
Financial transmission rights
$—
Purchased power expense
(b)
$37
Electricity swaps and options
($9)
(c)
Competitive business operating revenues
$—
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The effects of Entergy’s derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments on the consolidated income statements for the nine months ended
September 30, 2017
and
2016
are as follows:
Instrument
Amount of gain recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income
Income Statement
location
Amount of gain (loss)
recorded in the income statement
(In Millions)
(In Millions)
2017
Natural gas swaps
$—
Fuel, fuel-related expenses, and gas purchased for resale
(a)
($20)
Financial transmission rights
$—
Purchased power expense
(b)
$103
Electricity swaps and options
$2
(c)
Competitive business operating revenues
$—
2016
Natural gas swaps
$—
Fuel, fuel-related expenses, and gas purchased for resale
(a)
($5)
Financial transmission rights
$—
Purchased power expense
(b)
$96
Electricity swaps and options
$6
(c)
Competitive business operating revenues
($9)
(a)
Due to regulatory treatment, the natural gas swaps are marked-to-market through fuel, fuel-related expenses, and gas purchased for resale and then such amounts are simultaneously reversed and recorded as an offsetting regulatory asset or liability. The gains or losses recorded as fuel expenses when the swaps are settled are recovered or refunded through fuel cost recovery mechanisms.
(b)
Due to regulatory treatment, the changes in the estimated fair value of financial transmission rights for the Utility operating companies are recorded through purchased power expense and then such amounts are simultaneously reversed and recorded as an offsetting regulatory asset or liability. The gains or losses recorded as purchased power expense when the financial transmission rights for the Utility operating companies are settled are recovered or refunded through fuel cost recovery mechanisms.
(c)
Amount of gain (loss) recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income from electricity swaps and options de-designated as hedged items.
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The fair values of the Registrant Subsidiaries’ derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments on their balance sheets as of
September 30, 2017
are as follows:
Instrument
Balance Sheet Location
Fair Value (a)
Registrant
(In Millions)
Assets:
Financial transmission rights
Prepayments and other
$4.4
Entergy Arkansas
Financial transmission rights
Prepayments and other
$18.8
Entergy Louisiana
Financial transmission rights
Prepayments and other
$5.5
Entergy Mississippi
Financial transmission rights
Prepayments and other
$3.5
Entergy New Orleans
Financial transmission rights
Prepayments and other
$5.0
Entergy Texas
Liabilities:
Natural gas swaps
Other current liabilities
$0.7
Entergy Louisiana
Natural gas swaps
Other current liabilities
$0.2
Entergy Mississippi
The fair values of the Registrant Subsidiaries’ derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments on their balance sheets as of
December 31, 2016
are as follows:
Instrument
Balance Sheet Location
Fair Value (a)
Registrant
(In Millions)
Assets:
Natural gas swaps
Prepayments and other
$10.9
Entergy Louisiana
Natural gas swaps
Prepayments and other
$2.3
Entergy Mississippi
Natural gas swaps
Prepayments and other
$0.2
Entergy New Orleans
Financial transmission rights
Prepayments and other
$5.4
Entergy Arkansas
Financial transmission rights
Prepayments and other
$8.5
Entergy Louisiana
Financial transmission rights
Prepayments and other
$3.2
Entergy Mississippi
Financial transmission rights
Prepayments and other
$1.1
Entergy New Orleans
Financial transmission rights
Prepayments and other
$3.1
Entergy Texas
(a)
As of September 30, 2017, letters of credit posted with MISO covered financial transmission rights exposure of
$0.2 million
for Entergy Arkansas and
$0.1 million
for Entergy Mississippi. As of December 31, 2016, letters of credit posted with MISO covered financial transmission rights exposure of
$0.3 million
for Entergy Arkansas and
$0.1 million
for Entergy Mississippi.
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The effects of the Registrant Subsidiaries’ derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments on their income statements for the three months ended
September 30, 2017
and
2016
are as follows:
Instrument
Income Statement Location
Amount of gain
(loss) recorded
in the income statement
Registrant
(In Millions)
2017
Natural gas swaps
Fuel, fuel-related expenses, and gas purchased for resale
($2.6)
(a)
Entergy Louisiana
Natural gas swaps
Fuel, fuel-related expenses, and gas purchased for resale
($0.6)
(a)
Entergy Mississippi
Financial transmission rights
Purchased power expense
$4.2
(b)
Entergy Arkansas
Financial transmission rights
Purchased power expense
$9.4
(b)
Entergy Louisiana
Financial transmission rights
Purchased power expense
$4.7
(b)
Entergy Mississippi
Financial transmission rights
Purchased power expense
$1.9
(b)
Entergy New Orleans
Financial transmission rights
Purchased power expense
$7.0
(b)
Entergy Texas
2016
Natural gas swaps
Fuel, fuel-related expenses, and gas purchased for resale
$19.5
(a)
Entergy Louisiana
Natural gas swaps
Fuel, fuel-related expenses, and gas purchased for resale
$5.3
(a)
Entergy Mississippi
Financial transmission rights
Purchased power expense
$7.1
(b)
Entergy Arkansas
Financial transmission rights
Purchased power expense
$20.4
(b)
Entergy Louisiana
Financial transmission rights
Purchased power expense
$6.7
(b)
Entergy Mississippi
Financial transmission rights
Purchased power expense
$0.9
(b)
Entergy New Orleans
Financial transmission rights
Purchased power expense
$1.8
(b)
Entergy Texas
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The effects of the Registrant Subsidiaries’ derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments on their income statements for the nine months ended
September 30, 2017
and
2016
are as follows:
Instrument
Income Statement Location
Amount of gain
(loss) recorded
in the income statement
Registrant
(In Millions)
2017
Natural gas swaps
Fuel, fuel-related expenses, and gas purchased for resale
($16.3)
(a)
Entergy Louisiana
Natural gas swaps
Fuel, fuel-related expenses, and gas purchased for resale
($3.1)
(a)
Entergy Mississippi
Natural gas swaps
Fuel, fuel-related expenses, and gas purchased for resale
($0.1)
(a)
Entergy New Orleans
Financial transmission rights
Purchased power expense
$19.3
(b)
Entergy Arkansas
Financial transmission rights
Purchased power expense
$38.9
(b)
Entergy Louisiana
Financial transmission rights
Purchased power expense
$16.3
(b)
Entergy Mississippi
Financial transmission rights
Purchased power expense
$7.7
(b)
Entergy New Orleans
Financial transmission rights
Purchased power expense
$19.2
(b)
Entergy Texas
2016
Natural gas swaps
Fuel, fuel-related expenses, and gas purchased for resale
($4.6)
(a)
Entergy Louisiana
Natural gas swaps
Fuel, fuel-related expenses, and gas purchased for resale
$0.3
(a)
Entergy Mississippi
Natural gas swaps
Fuel, fuel-related expenses, and gas purchased for resale
($0.5)
(a)
Entergy New Orleans
Financial transmission rights
Purchased power expense
$20.3
(b)
Entergy Arkansas
Financial transmission rights
Purchased power expense
$52.5
(b)
Entergy Louisiana
Financial transmission rights
Purchased power expense
$11.1
(b)
Entergy Mississippi
Financial transmission rights
Purchased power expense
$2.8
(b)
Entergy New Orleans
Financial transmission rights
Purchased power expense
$8.7
(b)
Entergy Texas
(a)
Due to regulatory treatment, the natural gas swaps are marked-to-market through fuel, fuel-related expenses, and gas purchased for resale and then such amounts are simultaneously reversed and recorded as an offsetting regulatory asset or liability. The gains or losses recorded as fuel expenses when the swaps are settled are recovered or refunded through fuel cost recovery mechanisms.
(b)
Due to regulatory treatment, the changes in the estimated fair value of financial transmission rights for the Utility operating companies are recorded through purchased power expense and then such amounts are simultaneously reversed and recorded as an offsetting regulatory asset or liability. The gains or losses recorded as purchased power expense when the financial transmission rights for the Utility operating companies are settled are recovered or refunded through fuel cost recovery mechanisms.
Fair Values
The estimated fair values of Entergy’s financial instruments and derivatives are determined using historical prices, bid prices, market quotes, and financial modeling. Considerable judgment is required in developing the estimates
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of fair value. Therefore, estimates are not necessarily indicative of the amounts that Entergy could realize in a current market exchange. Gains or losses realized on financial instruments other than those instruments held by the Entergy Wholesale Commodities business are reflected in future rates and therefore do not affect net income. Entergy considers the carrying amounts of most financial instruments classified as current assets and liabilities to be a reasonable estimate of their fair value because of the short maturity of these instruments.
Accounting standards define fair value as an exit price, or the price that would be received to sell an asset or the amount that would be paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between knowledgeable market participants at the date of measurement. Entergy and the Registrant Subsidiaries use assumptions or market input data that market participants would use in pricing assets or liabilities at fair value. The inputs can be readily observable, corroborated by market data, or generally unobservable. Entergy and the Registrant Subsidiaries endeavor to use the best available information to determine fair value.
Accounting standards establish a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs used to measure fair value. The hierarchy establishes the highest priority for unadjusted market quotes in an active market for the identical asset or liability and the lowest priority for unobservable inputs.
The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are:
•
Level 1 - Level 1 inputs are unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the entity has the ability to access at the measurement date. Active markets are those in which transactions for the asset or liability occur in sufficient frequency and volume to provide pricing information on an ongoing basis. Level 1 primarily consists of individually owned common stocks, cash equivalents (temporary cash investments, securitization recovery trust account, and escrow accounts), debt instruments, and gas hedge contracts. Cash equivalents includes all unrestricted highly liquid debt instruments with an original or remaining maturity of three months or less at the date of purchase.
•
Level 2 - Level 2 inputs are inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1 that are, either directly or indirectly, observable for the asset or liability at the measurement date. Assets are valued based on prices derived by independent third parties that use inputs such as benchmark yields, reported trades, broker/dealer quotes, and issuer spreads. Prices are reviewed and can be challenged with the independent parties and/or overridden by Entergy if it is believed such would be more reflective of fair value. Level 2 inputs include the following:
–
quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets;
–
quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in inactive markets;
–
inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability; or
–
inputs that are derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data by correlation or other means.
Level 2 consists primarily of individually-owned debt instruments.
•
Level 3 - Level 3 inputs are pricing inputs that are generally less observable or unobservable from objective sources. These inputs are used with internally developed methodologies to produce management’s best estimate of fair value for the asset or liability. Level 3 consists primarily of financial transmission rights and derivative power contracts used as cash flow hedges of power sales at merchant power plants.
The values for power contract assets or liabilities are based on both observable inputs including public market prices and interest rates, and unobservable inputs such as implied volatilities, unit contingent discounts, expected basis differences, and credit adjusted counterparty interest rates. They are classified as Level 3 assets and liabilities. The valuations of these assets and liabilities are performed by the Business Unit Risk Control group and the Accounting Policy and Entergy Wholesale Commodities Accounting group. The primary functions of the Business Unit Risk
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Notes to Financial Statements
Control group include: gathering, validating and reporting market data, providing market risk analyses and valuations in support of Entergy Wholesale Commodities’ commercial transactions, developing and administering protocols for the management of market risks, and implementing and maintaining controls around changes to market data in the energy trading and risk management system. The Business Unit Risk Control group is also responsible for managing the energy trading and risk management system, forecasting revenues, forward positions and analysis. The Accounting Policy and Entergy Wholesale Commodities Accounting group performs functions related to market and counterparty settlements, revenue reporting and analysis and financial accounting. The Business Unit Risk Control group reports to the Vice President and Treasurer while the Accounting Policy and Entergy Wholesale Commodities Accounting group reports to the Chief Accounting Officer.
The amounts reflected as the fair value of electricity swaps are based on the estimated amount that the contracts are in-the-money at the balance sheet date (treated as an asset) or out-of-the-money at the balance sheet date (treated as a liability) and would equal the estimated amount receivable to or payable by Entergy if the contracts were settled at that date. These derivative contracts include cash flow hedges that swap fixed for floating cash flows for sales of the output from the Entergy Wholesale Commodities business. The fair values are based on the mark-to-market comparison between the fixed contract prices and the floating prices determined each period from quoted forward power market prices. The differences between the fixed price in the swap contract and these market-related prices multiplied by the volume specified in the contract and discounted at the counterparties’ credit adjusted risk free rate are recorded as derivative contract assets or liabilities. For contracts that have unit contingent terms, a further discount is applied based on the historical relationship between contract and market prices for similar contract terms.
The amounts reflected as the fair values of electricity options are valued based on a Black Scholes model, and are calculated at the end of each month for accounting purposes. Inputs to the valuation include end of day forward market prices for the period when the transactions will settle, implied volatilities based on market volatilities provided by a third party data aggregator, and U.S. Treasury rates for a risk-free return rate. As described further below, prices and implied volatilities are reviewed and can be adjusted if it is determined that there is a better representation of fair value.
On a daily basis, the Business Unit Risk Control group calculates the mark-to-market for electricity swaps and options. The Business Unit Risk Control group also validates forward market prices by comparing them to other sources of forward market prices or to settlement prices of actual market transactions. Significant differences are analyzed and potentially adjusted based on these other sources of forward market prices or settlement prices of actual market transactions. Implied volatilities used to value options are also validated using actual counterparty quotes for Entergy Wholesale Commodities transactions when available and compared with other sources of market implied volatilities. Moreover, on at least a monthly basis, the Office of Corporate Risk Oversight confirms the mark-to-market calculations and prepares price scenarios and credit downgrade scenario analysis. The scenario analysis is communicated to senior management within Entergy and within Entergy Wholesale Commodities. Finally, for all proposed derivative transactions, an analysis is completed to assess the risk of adding the proposed derivative to Entergy Wholesale Commodities’ portfolio. In particular, the credit and liquidity effects are calculated for this analysis. This analysis is communicated to senior management within Entergy and Entergy Wholesale Commodities.
The values of financial transmission rights are based on unobservable inputs, including estimates of congestion costs in MISO between applicable generation and load pricing nodes based on the 50th percentile of historical prices. They are classified as Level 3 assets and liabilities. The valuations of these assets and liabilities are performed by the Business Unit Risk Control group. The values are calculated internally and verified against the data published by MISO. Entergy’s Accounting Policy and Entergy Wholesale Commodities Accounting group reviews these valuations for reasonableness, with the assistance of others within the organization with knowledge of the various inputs and assumptions used in the valuation. The Business Unit Risk Control groups report to the Vice President and Treasurer. The Accounting Policy and Entergy Wholesale Commodities Accounting group reports to the Chief Accounting Officer.
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Notes to Financial Statements
The following tables set forth, by level within the fair value hierarchy, Entergy’s assets and liabilities that are accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis as of
September 30, 2017
and
December 31, 2016
. The assessment of the significance of a particular input to a fair value measurement requires judgment and may affect its placement within the fair value hierarchy levels.
2017
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Total
(In Millions)
Assets:
Temporary cash investments
$459
$—
$—
$459
Decommissioning trust funds (a):
Equity securities
487
—
—
487
Debt securities
1,035
1,394
—
2,429
Common trusts (b)
4,067
Power contracts
—
—
60
60
Securitization recovery trust account
53
—
—
53
Escrow accounts
407
—
—
407
Financial transmission rights
—
—
37
37
$2,441
$1,394
$97
$7,999
Liabilities:
Gas hedge contracts
$1
$—
$—
$1
2016
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Total
(In Millions)
Assets:
Temporary cash investments
$1,058
$—
$—
$1,058
Decommissioning trust funds (a):
Equity securities
480
—
—
480
Debt securities
985
1,228
—
2,213
Common trusts (b)
3,031
Power contracts
—
—
16
16
Securitization recovery trust account
46
—
—
46
Escrow accounts
433
—
—
433
Gas hedge contracts
13
—
—
13
Financial transmission rights
—
—
21
21
$3,015
$1,228
$37
$7,311
Liabilities:
Power contracts
$—
$—
$11
$11
(a)
The decommissioning trust funds hold equity and fixed income securities. Equity securities are invested to approximate the returns of major market indices. Fixed income securities are held in various governmental and corporate securities. See Note 9 to the financial statements for additional information on the investment portfolios.
(b)
Common trust funds are not publicly quoted, and are valued by the fund administrators using net asset value as a practical expedient. Accordingly, these funds are not assigned a level in the fair value table. The fund administrator of these investments allows daily trading at the net asset value and trades settle at a later date.
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Notes to Financial Statements
The following table sets forth a reconciliation of changes in the net assets (liabilities) for the fair value of derivatives classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy for the three months ended
September 30, 2017
and
2016
:
2017
2016
Power Contracts
Financial transmission rights
Power Contracts
Financial transmission rights
(In Millions)
Balance as of July 1,
$38
$57
$66
$46
Total gains (losses) for the period (a)
Included in earnings
2
—
6
—
Included in other comprehensive income
43
—
70
—
Included as a regulatory liability/asset
—
8
—
22
Settlements
(23
)
(28
)
(47
)
(37
)
Balance as of September 30,
$60
$37
$95
$31
(a)
Change in unrealized gains or losses for the period included in earnings for derivatives held at the end of the reporting period is
$0.4 million
for the three months ended September 30, 2017 and
$1 million
for the three months ended September 30, 2016.
The following table sets forth a reconciliation of changes in the net assets (liabilities) for the fair value of derivatives classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
and
2016
:
2017
2016
Power Contracts
Financial transmission rights
Power Contracts
Financial transmission rights
(In Millions)
Balance as of January 1,
$5
$21
$189
$23
Total gains (losses) for the period (a)
Included in earnings
6
1
(3
)
—
Included in other comprehensive income
136
—
156
—
Included as a regulatory liability/asset
—
56
—
49
Issuances of financial transmission rights
—
62
—
55
Settlements
(87
)
(103
)
(247
)
(96
)
Balance as of September 30,
$60
$37
$95
$31
(a)
Change in unrealized gains or losses for the period included in earnings for derivatives held at the end of the reporting period is
$1 million
for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and
$1 million
for the nine months ended September 30, 2016.
The
following
table sets forth a description of the types of transactions classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy and significant unobservable inputs to each which cause that classification as of
September 30, 2017
:
Transaction Type
Fair Value
as of
September 30, 2017
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
Range
from
Average
%
Effect on
Fair Value
(In Millions)
(In Millions)
Power contracts - electricity swaps
$60
Unit contingent discount
+/-
4%
$5
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Notes to Financial Statements
The following table sets forth an analysis of each of the types of unobservable inputs impacting the fair value of items classified as Level 3 within the fair value hierarchy, and the sensitivity to changes to those inputs:
Significant
Unobservable
Input
Transaction Type
Position
Change to Input
Effect on
Fair Value
Unit contingent discount
Electricity swaps
Sell
Increase (Decrease)
Decrease (Increase)
The following table sets forth, by level within the fair value hierarchy, the Registrant Subsidiaries’ assets and liabilities that are accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis as of
September 30, 2017
and
December 31, 2016
. The assessment of the significance of a particular input to a fair value measurement requires judgment and may affect its placement within the fair value hierarchy levels.
Entergy Arkansas
2017
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Total
(In Millions)
Assets:
Decommissioning trust funds (a):
Equity securities
$6.7
$—
$—
$6.7
Debt securities
128.4
205.7
—
334.1
Common trusts (b)
569.6
Securitization recovery trust account
7.8
—
—
7.8
Escrow accounts
2.4
—
—
2.4
Financial transmission rights
—
—
4.4
4.4
$145.3
$205.7
$4.4
$925.0
2016
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Total
(In Millions)
Assets:
Decommissioning trust funds (a):
Equity securities
$3.6
$—
$—
$3.6
Debt securities
112.5
196.8
—
309.3
Common trusts (b)
521.8
Securitization recovery trust account
4.1
—
—
4.1
Escrow accounts
7.1
—
—
7.1
Financial transmission rights
—
—
5.4
5.4
$127.3
$196.8
$5.4
$851.3
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Notes to Financial Statements
Entergy Louisiana
2017
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Total
(In Millions)
Assets:
Temporary cash investments
$45.4
$—
$—
$45.4
Decommissioning trust funds (a):
Equity securities
10.8
—
—
10.8
Debt securities
145.5
333.3
—
478.8
Common trusts (b)
770.4
Escrow accounts
288.8
—
—
288.8
Securitization recovery trust account
9.4
—
—
9.4
Financial transmission rights
—
—
18.8
18.8
$499.9
$333.3
$18.8
$1,622.4
Liabilities:
Gas hedge contracts
$0.7
$—
$—
$0.7
2016
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Total
(In Millions)
Assets:
Temporary cash investments
$163.9
$—
$—
$163.9
Decommissioning trust funds (a):
Equity securities
13.9
—
—
13.9
Debt securities
132.3
292.5
—
424.8
Common trusts (b)
702.0
Escrow accounts
305.7
—
—
305.7
Securitization recovery trust account
2.8
—
—
2.8
Gas hedge contracts
10.9
—
—
10.9
Financial transmission rights
—
—
8.5
8.5
$629.5
$292.5
$8.5
$1,632.5
Entergy Mississippi
2017
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Total
(In Millions)
Assets:
Escrow accounts
$31.9
$—
$—
$31.9
Financial transmission rights
—
—
5.5
5.5
$31.9
$—
$5.5
$37.4
Liabilities:
Gas hedge contracts
$0.2
$—
$—
$0.2
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Notes to Financial Statements
2016
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Total
(In Millions)
Assets:
Temporary cash investments
$76.8
$—
$—
$76.8
Escrow accounts
31.8
—
—
31.8
Gas hedge contracts
2.3
—
—
2.3
Financial transmission rights
—
—
3.2
3.2
$110.9
$—
$3.2
$114.1
Entergy New Orleans
2017
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Total
(In Millions)
Assets:
Temporary cash investments
$28.4
$—
$—
$28.4
Securitization recovery trust account
4.7
—
—
4.7
Escrow accounts
84.2
—
—
84.2
Financial transmission rights
—
—
3.5
3.5
$117.3
$—
$3.5
$120.8
2016
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Total
(In Millions)
Assets:
Temporary cash investments
$103.0
$—
$—
$103.0
Securitization recovery trust account
1.7
—
—
1.7
Escrow accounts
88.6
—
—
88.6
Gas hedge contracts
0.2
—
—
0.2
Financial transmission rights
—
—
1.1
1.1
$193.5
$—
$1.1
$194.6
Entergy Texas
2017
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Total
(In Millions)
Assets
:
Securitization recovery trust account
$30.8
$—
$—
$30.8
Financial transmission rights
—
—
5.0
5.0
$30.8
$—
$5.0
$35.8
2016
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Total
(In Millions)
Assets
:
Temporary cash investments
$5.0
$—
$—
$5.0
Securitization recovery trust account
37.5
—
—
37.5
Financial transmission rights
—
—
3.1
3.1
$42.5
$—
$3.1
$45.6
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Notes to Financial Statements
System Energy
2017
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Total
(In Millions)
Assets:
Temporary cash investments
$144.9
$—
$—
$144.9
Decommissioning trust funds (a):
Equity securities
2.6
—
—
2.6
Debt securities
198.2
131.4
—
329.6
Common trusts (b)
538.4
$345.7
$131.4
$—
$1,015.5
2016
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Total
(In Millions)
Assets:
Temporary cash investments
$245.1
$—
$—
$245.1
Decommissioning trust funds (a):
Equity securities
0.3
—
—
0.3
Debt securities
248.3
58.3
—
306.6
Common trusts (b)
473.6
$493.7
$58.3
$—
$1,025.6
(a)
The decommissioning trust funds hold equity and fixed income securities. Equity securities are invested to approximate the returns of major market indices. Fixed income securities are held in various governmental and corporate securities. See Note 9 to the financial statements herein for additional information on the investment portfolios.
(b)
Common trust funds are not publicly quoted, and are valued by the fund administrators using net asset value as a practical expedient. Accordingly, these funds are not assigned a level in the fair value table. The fund administrator of these investments allows daily trading at the net asset value and trades settle at a later date.
The following table sets forth a reconciliation of changes in the net assets (liabilities) for the fair value of derivatives classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy for the three months ended September 30, 2017.
Entergy
Arkansas
Entergy
Louisiana
Entergy
Mississippi
Entergy
New
Orleans
Entergy
Texas
(In Millions)
Balance as of July 1,
$8.3
$28.3
$9.1
$5.2
$5.5
Gains included as a regulatory liability/asset
0.3
(0.1
)
1.1
0.2
6.5
Settlements
(4.2
)
(9.4
)
(4.7
)
(1.9
)
(7.0
)
Balance as of September 30,
$4.4
$18.8
$5.5
$3.5
$5.0
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Notes to Financial Statements
The following table sets forth a reconciliation of changes in the net assets (liabilities) for the fair value of derivatives classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy for the three months ended September 30, 2016.
Entergy
Arkansas
Entergy
Louisiana
Entergy
Mississippi
Entergy
New
Orleans
Entergy
Texas
(In Millions)
Balance as of July 1,
$14.0
$16.2
$5.6
$2.0
$8.0
Gains included as a regulatory liability/asset
1.2
16.6
5.1
0.5
(1.1
)
Settlements
(7.1
)
(20.4
)
(6.7
)
(0.9
)
(1.8
)
Balance as of September 30,
$8.1
$12.4
$4.0
$1.6
$5.1
The following table sets forth a reconciliation of changes in the net assets (liabilities) for the fair value of derivatives classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy for the
nine months ended September 30, 2017
.
Entergy
Arkansas
Entergy
Louisiana
Entergy
Mississippi
Entergy
New
Orleans
Entergy
Texas
(In Millions)
Balance as of January 1,
$5.4
$8.5
$3.2
$1.1
$3.1
Issuances of financial transmission rights
8.9
31.0
9.6
5.0
7.1
Gains included as a regulatory liability/asset
9.4
18.2
9.0
5.1
14.0
Settlements
(19.3
)
(38.9
)
(16.3
)
(7.7
)
(19.2
)
Balance as of September 30,
$4.4
$18.8
$5.5
$3.5
$5.0
The following table sets forth a reconciliation of changes in the net assets (liabilities) for the fair value of derivatives classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy for the
nine months ended September 30, 2016
.
Entergy
Arkansas
Entergy
Louisiana
Entergy
Mississippi
Entergy
New
Orleans
Entergy
Texas
(In Millions)
Balance as of January 1,
$7.9
$8.5
$2.4
$1.5
$2.2
Issuances of financial transmission rights
18.8
18.1
5.9
2.8
9.3
Gains (losses) included as a regulatory liability/asset
1.7
38.3
6.8
0.1
2.3
Settlements
(20.3
)
(52.5
)
(11.1
)
(2.8
)
(8.7
)
Balance as of September 30,
$8.1
$12.4
$4.0
$1.6
$5.1
NOTE 9. DECOMMISSIONING TRUST FUNDS (Entergy Corporation, Entergy Arkansas, Entergy Louisiana, and System Energy)
Entergy holds debt and equity securities, classified as available-for-sale, in nuclear decommissioning trust accounts. The NRC requires Entergy subsidiaries to maintain trusts to fund the costs of decommissioning ANO 1, ANO 2, River Bend, Waterford 3, Grand Gulf, Pilgrim, Indian Point 1, Indian Point 2, Indian Point 3, Vermont Yankee,
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Notes to Financial Statements
and Palisades. The funds are invested primarily in equity securities, fixed-rate debt securities, and cash and cash equivalents.
See Note 16 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for discussion of the trust transfer agreement with NYPA to transfer the decommissioning trust funds and decommissioning liabilities for the Indian Point 3 and FitzPatrick plants to Entergy. In January 2017, NYPA transferred to Entergy the Indian Point 3 decommissioning trust fund with a fair value of
$726 million
and the FitzPatrick decommissioning trust fund with a fair value of
$793 million
.
As discussed in Note 13 to the financial statements herein, in March 2017, Entergy closed on the sale of the FitzPatrick plant to Exelon. As part of the transaction, Entergy transferred the FitzPatrick decommissioning trust fund to Exelon. The FitzPatrick decommissioning trust fund had a disposition-date fair value of
$805 million
and was classified as held for sale within other deferred debits as of December 31, 2016.
Entergy records decommissioning trust funds on the balance sheet at their fair value. Because of the ability of the Registrant Subsidiaries to recover decommissioning costs in rates and in accordance with the regulatory treatment for decommissioning trust funds, the Registrant Subsidiaries have recorded an offsetting amount of unrealized gains/(losses) on investment securities in other regulatory liabilities/assets. For the
30%
interest in River Bend formerly owned by Cajun, Entergy Louisiana has recorded an offsetting amount of unrealized gains/(losses) in other deferred credits. Decommissioning trust funds for Pilgrim, Indian Point 1, Indian Point 2, Indian Point 3, Vermont Yankee, and Palisades do not meet the criteria for regulatory accounting treatment. Accordingly, unrealized gains recorded on the assets in these trust funds are recognized in the accumulated other comprehensive income component of shareholders’ equity because these assets are classified as available-for-sale. Unrealized losses (where cost exceeds fair market value) on the assets in these trust funds are also recorded in the accumulated other comprehensive income component of shareholders’ equity unless the unrealized loss is other-than-temporary and therefore recorded in earnings. Generally, Entergy records realized gains and losses on its debt and equity securities using the specific identification method to determine the cost basis of its securities.
The securities held as of
September 30, 2017
and
December 31, 2016
are summarized as follows:
Fair
Value
Total
Unrealized
Gains
Total
Unrealized
Losses
(In Millions)
2017
Equity Securities
$4,554
$1,983
$—
Debt Securities
2,429
45
14
Total
$6,983
$2,028
$14
Fair
Value
Total
Unrealized
Gains
Total
Unrealized
Losses
(In Millions)
2016
Equity Securities
$3,511
$1,673
$1
Debt Securities
2,213
34
27
Total
$5,724
$1,707
$28
The fair values of the decommissioning trust funds related to the Entergy Wholesale Commodities nuclear plants as of
September 30, 2017
are
$478 million
for Indian Point 1,
$607 million
for Indian Point 2,
$774 million
for Indian Point 3,
$445 million
for Palisades,
$1,037 million
for Pilgrim, and
$601 million
for Vermont Yankee. The fair values of the decommissioning trust funds for the Registrant Subsidiaries’ nuclear plants are detailed below.
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Notes to Financial Statements
Deferred taxes on unrealized gains/(losses) are recorded in other comprehensive income for the decommissioning trusts which do not meet the criteria for regulatory accounting treatment as described above. Unrealized gains/(losses) above are reported before deferred taxes of
$472 million
and
$399 million
as of
September 30, 2017
and
December 31, 2016
, respectively. The amortized cost of debt securities was
$2,398 million
as of
September 30, 2017
and
$2,212 million
as of
December 31, 2016
. As of
September 30, 2017
, the debt securities have an average coupon rate of approximately
3.21%
, an average duration of approximately
6.17
years, and an average maturity of approximately
10.07
years. The equity securities are generally held in funds that are designed to approximate or somewhat exceed the return of the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index. A relatively small percentage of the equity securities are held in funds intended to replicate the return of the Wilshire 4500 Index or the Russell 3000 Index.
The fair value and gross unrealized losses of available-for-sale equity and debt securities, summarized by investment type and length of time that the securities have been in a continuous loss position, are as follows as of
September 30, 2017
:
Equity Securities
Debt Securities
Fair
Value
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
Fair
Value
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
(In Millions)
Less than 12 months
$5
$—
$732
$5
More than 12 months
—
—
267
9
Total
$5
$—
$999
$14
The fair value and gross unrealized losses of available-for-sale equity and debt securities, summarized by investment type and length of time that the securities have been in a continuous loss position, are as follows as of
December 31, 2016
:
Equity Securities
Debt Securities
Fair
Value
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
Fair
Value
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
(In Millions)
Less than 12 months
$23
$1
$1,169
$26
More than 12 months
1
—
20
1
Total
$24
$1
$1,189
$27
The fair value of debt securities, summarized by contractual maturities, as of
September 30, 2017
and
December 31, 2016
are as follows:
2017
2016
(In Millions)
less than 1 year
$91
$125
1 year - 5 years
801
763
5 years - 10 years
789
719
10 years - 15 years
130
109
15 years - 20 years
87
73
20 years+
531
424
Total
$2,429
$2,213
During the
three months ended
September 30, 2017
and
2016
, proceeds from the dispositions of securities amounted to
$440 million
and
$564 million
, respectively. During the
three months ended
September 30, 2017
and
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Notes to Financial Statements
2016
, gross gains of
$9 million
and
$6 million
, respectively, and gross losses of
$2 million
and
$1 million
, respectively, were reclassified out of other comprehensive income or other regulatory liabilities/assets into earnings.
During the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
and
2016
, proceeds from the dispositions of securities amounted to
$1,903 million
and
$1,797 million
, respectively. During the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
and
2016
, gross gains of
$79 million
and
$26 million
, respectively, and gross losses of
$9 million
and
$6 million
, respectively, were reclassified out of other comprehensive income or other regulatory liabilities/assets into earnings.
Entergy Arkansas
Entergy Arkansas holds debt and equity securities, classified as available-for-sale, in nuclear decommissioning trust accounts. The securities held as of
September 30, 2017
and
December 31, 2016
are summarized as follows:
Fair
Value
Total
Unrealized
Gains
Total
Unrealized
Losses
(In Millions)
2017
Equity Securities
$576.3
$327.2
$—
Debt Securities
334.1
3.1
2.3
Total
$910.4
$330.3
$2.3
2016
Equity Securities
$525.4
$281.5
$—
Debt Securities
309.3
3.4
4.2
Total
$834.7
$284.9
$4.2
The amortized cost of debt securities was
$333.3 million
as of
September 30, 2017
and
$310.1 million
as of
December 31, 2016
. As of
September 30, 2017
, the debt securities have an average coupon rate of approximately
2.53%
, an average duration of approximately
5.83
years, and an average maturity of approximately
6.78
years. The equity securities are generally held in funds that are designed to approximate the return of the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index. A relatively small percentage of the equity securities are held in funds intended to replicate the return of the Wilshire 4500 Index.
The fair value and gross unrealized losses of available-for-sale equity and debt securities, summarized by investment type and length of time that the securities have been in a continuous loss position, are as follows as of
September 30, 2017
:
Equity Securities
Debt Securities
Fair
Value
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
Fair
Value
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
(In Millions)
Less than 12 months
$—
$—
$114.4
$0.6
More than 12 months
—
—
37.3
1.7
Total
$—
$—
$151.7
$2.3
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Notes to Financial Statements
The fair value and gross unrealized losses of available-for-sale equity and debt securities, summarized by investment type and length of time that the securities have been in a continuous loss position, are as follows as of
December 31, 2016
:
Equity Securities
Debt Securities
Fair
Value
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
Fair
Value
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
(In Millions)
Less than 12 months
$—
$—
$146.7
$4.2
More than 12 months
—
—
—
—
Total
$—
$—
$146.7
$4.2
The fair value of debt securities, summarized by contractual maturities, as of
September 30, 2017
and
December 31, 2016
are as follows:
2017
2016
(In Millions)
less than 1 year
$11.8
$16.7
1 year - 5 years
107.9
106.2
5 years - 10 years
194.4
161.2
10 years - 15 years
2.6
7.7
15 years - 20 years
1.4
1.0
20 years+
16.0
16.5
Total
$334.1
$309.3
During the
three months ended
September 30, 2017
and
2016
, proceeds from the dispositions of securities amounted to
$51.9 million
and
$61.2 million
, respectively. During the
three months ended
September 30, 2017
and
2016
, gross gains of
$0.04 million
and
$0.4 million
, respectively, and gross losses of
$0.5 thousand
and
$0.04 million
, respectively were reclassified out of other regulatory liabilities/assets into earnings.
During the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
and
2016
, proceeds from the dispositions of securities amounted to
$219.2 million
and
$165 million
, respectively. During the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
and
2016
, gross gains of
$11.7 million
and
$1.6 million
, respectively, and gross losses of
$0.2 million
and
$0.3 million
, respectively were reclassified out of other regulatory liabilities/assets into earnings.
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Notes to Financial Statements
Entergy Louisiana
Entergy Louisiana holds debt and equity securities, classified as available-for-sale, in nuclear decommissioning trust accounts. The securities held as of
September 30, 2017
and
December 31, 2016
are summarized as follows:
Fair
Value
Total
Unrealized
Gains
Total
Unrealized
Losses
(In Millions)
2017
Equity Securities
$781.2
$420.3
$—
Debt Securities
478.8
10.9
2.8
Total
$1,260.0
$431.2
$2.8
2016
Equity Securities
$715.9
$346.6
$—
Debt Securities
424.8
8.0
5.0
Total
$1,140.7
$354.6
$5.0
The amortized cost of debt securities was
$470.7 million
as of
September 30, 2017
and
$421.9 million
as of
December 31, 2016
. As of
September 30, 2017
, the debt securities have an average coupon rate of approximately
3.84%
, an average duration of approximately
5.76
years, and an average maturity of approximately
11.6
years. The equity securities are generally held in funds that are designed to approximate the return of the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index. A relatively small percentage of the equity securities are held in funds intended to replicate the return of the Wilshire 4500 Index.
The fair value and gross unrealized losses of available-for-sale equity and debt securities, summarized by investment type and length of time that the securities have been in a continuous loss position, are as follows as of
September 30, 2017
:
Equity Securities
Debt Securities
Fair
Value
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
Fair
Value
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
(In Millions)
Less than 12 months
$—
$—
$127.3
$1.1
More than 12 months
—
—
51.5
1.7
Total
$—
$—
$178.8
$2.8
The fair value and gross unrealized losses of available-for-sale equity and debt securities, summarized by investment type and length of time that the securities have been in a continuous loss position, are as follows as of
December 31, 2016
:
Equity Securities
Debt Securities
Fair
Value
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
Fair
Value
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
(In Millions)
Less than 12 months
$—
$—
$198.8
$4.8
More than 12 months
—
—
4.8
0.2
Total
$—
$—
$203.6
$5.0
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Notes to Financial Statements
The fair value of debt securities, summarized by contractual maturities, as of
September 30, 2017
and
December 31, 2016
are as follows:
2017
2016
(In Millions)
less than 1 year
$27.7
$31.4
1 year - 5 years
113.2
99.1
5 years - 10 years
117.1
122.8
10 years - 15 years
50.7
41.4
15 years - 20 years
43.4
30.9
20 years+
126.7
99.2
Total
$478.8
$424.8
During the
three months ended
September 30, 2017
and
2016
, proceeds from the dispositions of securities amounted to
$50.5 million
and
$54.7 million
, respectively. During the
three months ended
September 30, 2017
and
2016
, gross gains of
$2.9 million
and
$0.4 million
, respectively, and gross losses of
$0.1 million
and
$0.1 million
, respectively, were reclassified out of other regulatory liabilities/assets into earnings.
During the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
and
2016
, proceeds from the dispositions of securities amounted to
$176.1 million
and
$178.2 million
, respectively. During the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
and
2016
, gross gains of
$7.9 million
and
$3 million
, respectively, and gross losses of
$0.4 million
and
$0.2 million
, respectively, were reclassified out of other regulatory liabilities/assets into earnings.
System Energy
System Energy holds debt and equity securities, classified as available-for-sale, in nuclear decommissioning trust accounts. The securities held as of
September 30, 2017
and
December 31, 2016
are summarized as follows:
Fair
Value
Total
Unrealized
Gains
Total
Unrealized
Losses
(In Millions)
2017
Equity Securities
$541.0
$276.2
$—
Debt Securities
329.6
3.7
1.9
Total
$870.6
$279.9
$1.9
2016
Equity Securities
$473.9
$221.9
$0.1
Debt Securities
306.6
2.0
4.5
Total
$780.5
$223.9
$4.6
The amortized cost of debt securities was
$327.8 million
as of
September 30, 2017
and
$309.1 million
as of
December 31, 2016
. As of
September 30, 2017
, the debt securities have an average coupon rate of approximately
2.44%
, an average duration of approximately
6.37
years, and an average maturity of approximately
8.88
years. The equity securities are generally held in funds that are designed to approximate the return of the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index. A relatively small percentage of the equity securities are held in funds intended to replicate the return of the Wilshire 4500 Index.
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Notes to Financial Statements
The fair value and gross unrealized losses of available-for-sale equity and debt securities, summarized by investment type and length of time that the securities have been in a continuous loss position, are as follows as of
September 30, 2017
:
Equity Securities
Debt Securities
Fair
Value
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
Fair
Value
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
(In Millions)
Less than 12 months
$—
$—
$135.6
$1.0
More than 12 months
—
—
57.5
0.9
Total
$—
$—
$193.1
$1.9
The fair value and gross unrealized losses of available-for-sale equity and debt securities, summarized by investment type and length of time that the securities have been in a continuous loss position, are as follows as of
December 31, 2016
:
Equity Securities
Debt Securities
Fair
Value
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
Fair
Value
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
(In Millions)
Less than 12 months
$—
$—
$220.9
$4.4
More than 12 months
—
0.1
0.8
0.1
Total
$—
$0.1
$221.7
$4.5
The fair value of debt securities, summarized by contractual maturities, as of
September 30, 2017
and
December 31, 2016
are as follows:
2017
2016
(In Millions)
less than 1 year
$8.7
$6.6
1 year - 5 years
170.7
188.2
5 years - 10 years
79.1
78.5
10 years - 15 years
4.4
1.3
15 years - 20 years
6.5
7.8
20 years+
60.2
24.2
Total
$329.6
$306.6
During the
three months ended
September 30, 2017
and
2016
, proceeds from the dispositions of securities amounted to
$54.6 million
and
$103.5 million
, respectively. During the
three months ended
September 30, 2017
and
2016
, gross gains of
$0.2 million
and
$0.7 million
, respectively, and gross losses of
$0.2 million
and
$0.1 million
, respectively, were reclassified out of other regulatory liabilities/assets into earnings.
During the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
and
2016
, proceeds from the dispositions of securities amounted to
$308.1 million
and
$392.9 million
, respectively. During the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
and
2016
, gross gains of
$0.7 million
and
$3.2 million
, respectively, and gross losses of
$1.5 million
and
$0.4 million
, respectively, were reclassified out of other regulatory liabilities/assets into earnings.
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Entergy Corporation and Subsidiaries
Notes to Financial Statements
Other-than-temporary impairments and unrealized gains and losses
Entergy evaluates investment securities in the Entergy Wholesale Commodities’ nuclear decommissioning trust funds with unrealized losses at the end of each period to determine whether an other-than-temporary impairment has occurred. The assessment of whether an investment in a debt security has suffered an other-than-temporary impairment is based on whether Entergy has the intent to sell or more likely than not will be required to sell the debt security before recovery of its amortized costs. Further, if Entergy does not expect to recover the entire amortized cost basis of the debt security, an other-than-temporary impairment is considered to have occurred and it is measured by the present value of cash flows expected to be collected less the amortized cost basis (credit loss). Entergy did not have any material other-than-temporary impairments relating to credit losses on debt securities for the
three
and
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
and
2016
. The assessment of whether an investment in an equity security has suffered an other-than-temporary impairment is based on a number of factors including, first, whether Entergy has the ability and intent to hold the investment to recover its value, the duration and severity of any losses, and, then, whether it is expected that the investment will recover its value within a reasonable period of time. Entergy’s trusts are managed by third parties who operate in accordance with agreements that define investment guidelines and place restrictions on the purchases and sales of investments. Entergy did not record material charges to other income for the
three
and
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
and
2016
, resulting from the recognition of the other-than-temporary impairment of certain equity securities held in its decommissioning trust funds.
NOTE 10. INCOME TAXES (Entergy Corporation, Entergy Arkansas, Entergy Louisiana, Entergy Mississippi, Entergy New Orleans, Entergy Texas, and System Energy)
See “
Income Tax Audits
” and “
Other Tax Matters
” in Note 3 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for a discussion of income tax audits and other income tax matters involving Entergy. The following are updates to that discussion.
As discussed in the Form 10-K, in the second quarter 2016, Entergy made a tax election to treat as a corporation for federal income tax purposes its subsidiary that owned the FitzPatrick nuclear power plant. The effect of the election was that the plant and associated assets were deemed to be contributed to a new corporation for federal income tax purposes, which created permanent and temporary differences, as discussed in the Form 10-K. One permanent difference, which increased tax expense in 2016 under the applicable accounting standards, was the reduction to the plant’s tax basis to the extent that it exceeded its fair market value. Entergy sold the FitzPatrick plant on March 31, 2017. The removal of the contingencies regarding the sale of the plant and the receipt of NRC approval for the sale allowed Entergy to re-determine the plant’s tax basis, using the closing price as indicative of a higher fair market value for the plant. The re-determined basis resulted in a
$44 million
income tax benefit in the first quarter 2017.
In the second quarter 2017, Entergy made tax elections to treat as corporations for federal income tax purposes two subsidiaries that each own an Entergy Wholesale Commodities nuclear power plant. This resulted in a constructive contribution of all the assets and liabilities associated with the plants to new subsidiary corporations for federal income tax purposes, and generated both permanent and temporary differences under the income tax accounting standards. The constructive contributions required the Entergy subsidiary that constructively contributed the assets and liabilities to recognize the plants’ nuclear decommissioning liabilities for income tax purposes resulting in permanent differences. The accrual of the nuclear decommissioning liabilities required Entergy to recognize a gain for income tax purposes, a portion of which resulted in an increase in tax basis of the assets constructively contributed to the subsidiaries. Recognition of the gain and the increase in tax basis of the assets represents a temporary difference. The permanent differences reduced income tax expense, net of unrecognized tax benefits, by
$373 million
.
In the first quarter 2017, Entergy implemented ASU No. 2016-09, “Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting.” Entergy will now prospectively recognize all income tax effects related to share-based payments through the income statement. In the first quarter 2017, stock option expirations, along with other stock compensation activity, resulted in the write-off of
$11.5 million
of deferred
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Entergy Corporation and Subsidiaries
Notes to Financial Statements
tax assets. Entergy’s stock-based compensation plans are discussed in Note 12 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K.
NOTE 11. PROPERTY, PLANT, AND EQUIPMENT (Entergy Corporation, Entergy Arkansas, Entergy Louisiana, Entergy Mississippi, Entergy New Orleans, Entergy Texas, and System Energy)
Construction Expenditures in Accounts Payable
Construction expenditures included in accounts payable at
September 30, 2017
are
$219 million
for Entergy,
$28.6 million
for Entergy Arkansas,
$95.5 million
for Entergy Louisiana,
$7.2 million
for Entergy Mississippi,
$0.6 million
for Entergy New Orleans,
$18.9 million
for Entergy Texas, and
$26.9 million
for System Energy. Construction expenditures included in accounts payable at
December 31, 2016
are
$253 million
for Entergy,
$40.9 million
for Entergy Arkansas,
$114.8 million
for Entergy Louisiana,
$11.5 million
for Entergy Mississippi,
$2.3 million
for Entergy New Orleans,
$9.3 million
for Entergy Texas, and
$6.2 million
for System Energy.
NOTE 12. VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES (Entergy Corporation, Entergy Arkansas, Entergy Louisiana, Entergy Mississippi, Entergy New Orleans, Entergy Texas, and System Energy)
See Note 17 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for a discussion of variable interest entities. See Note 4 to the financial statements herein for details of the nuclear fuel companies’ credit facilities and commercial paper borrowings and long-term debt.
Entergy Louisiana was considered to hold a variable interest in the lessor from which it leased an undivided interest representing approximately
9.3%
of the Waterford 3 nuclear plant. After Entergy Louisiana acquired a beneficial interest in the leased assets in March 2016, however, the lessor was no longer considered a variable interest entity. Entergy Louisiana made payments on its lease, including interest, of
$9.2 million
through March 2016. See Note 10 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for a discussion of Entergy Louisiana’s purchase of the Waterford 3 leased assets.
System Energy is considered to hold a variable interest in the lessor from which it leases an undivided interest representing approximately
11.5%
of the Grand Gulf nuclear plant. System Energy is the lessee under this arrangement, which is described in more detail in Note 10 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K. System Energy made payments on its lease, including interest, of
$8.6 million
in the three months ended
September 30, 2017
and
$8.6 million
in the three months ended
September 30, 2016
. System Energy made payments on its lease, including interest, of
$17.2 million
in the nine months ended
September 30, 2017
and
$17.2 million
in the nine months ended
September 30, 2016
.
NOTE 13. ACQUISITIONS AND DISPOSITIONS (Entergy Corporation)
Acquisitions
Palisades Purchase Power Agreement
As discussed in the Form 10-K, Entergy’s purchase of the Palisades plant in 2007 included a unit-contingent,
15
-year purchased power agreement (PPA) with Consumers Energy for
100%
of the plant’s output, excluding any future uprates. Prices under the PPA range from
$43.50
/MWh in 2007 to
$61.50
/MWh in 2022, and the average price under the PPA is
$51
/MWh. For the PPA, which was at below-market prices at the time of the acquisition, Entergy will amortize a liability to revenue over the life of the agreement. The amount that will be amortized each period is based upon the present value, calculated at the date of acquisition, of each year’s difference between revenue under the agreement and revenue based on estimated market prices.
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Entergy Corporation and Subsidiaries
Notes to Financial Statements
In December 2016, Entergy announced that it had reached an agreement with Consumers Energy to amend the existing PPA to terminate early, on May 31, 2018, subject to regulatory approvals. Entergy updated the liability amortization calculation to reflect the expected early termination of the PPA. In September 2017, Entergy and Consumers Energy terminated the PPA amendment agreement, and Entergy announced the decision to continue to operate the plant through the end of the PPA. Based on that decision, the amounts to be amortized to revenue for the next five years will be approximately
$2 million
for the remainder of 2017,
$6 million
in 2018,
$10 million
in 2019,
$11 million
in 2020, and
$12 million
in 2021.
Dispositions
FitzPatrick
In March 2017 the NRC approved the sale of the FitzPatrick plant, an
838
MW nuclear power plant owned by Entergy in the Entergy Wholesale Commodities segment, to Exelon. The transaction closed in March 2017 for a purchase price of
$110 million
, including the
$10 million
non-refundable signing fee paid in August 2016, in addition to the assumption by Exelon of certain liabilities related to the FitzPatrick plant, resulting in a pre-tax gain on the sale of
$16 million
. At the transaction close, Exelon paid an additional
$8 million
for the proration of certain expenses prepaid by Entergy.
As discussed in Note 10 to the financial statements herein, as a result of the sale of FitzPatrick on March 31, 2017, Entergy re-determined the plant’s tax basis, resulting in a
$44 million
income tax benefit in the first quarter 2017.
The assets and liabilities associated with the sale of FitzPatrick to Exelon were classified as held for sale on Entergy Corporation and Subsidiaries’ Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2016. The disposition-date fair value of the decommissioning trust fund was
$805 million
, classified within other deferred debits, and the disposition-date fair value of the asset retirement obligation was
$727 million
, classified within other non-current liabilities. The transaction also included property, plant, and equipment with a net book value of
zero
, materials and supplies, and prepaid assets.
As discussed in Note 14 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K, Entergy entered into a reimbursement agreement with Exelon pursuant to which Exelon reimbursed Entergy for specified out-of-pocket costs associated with Entergy’s operation of FitzPatrick. In the first quarter 2017, Entergy billed Exelon for reimbursement of
$98 million
of other operation and maintenance expenses,
$7 million
in lost operating revenues, and
$3 million
in taxes other than income taxes, partially offset by a
$10 million
defueling credit to Exelon.
NOTE 14. ASSET RETIREMENT OBLIGATIONS (Entergy Corporation, Entergy Arkansas, Entergy Louisiana, Entergy Mississippi, Entergy New Orleans, Entergy Texas, and System Energy)
See Note 9 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for a discussion of asset retirement obligations. Following are updates to that discussion.
In the second quarter 2017, System Energy recorded a revision to its estimated decommissioning cost liability for Grand Gulf as a result of a revised decommissioning cost study. The revised estimate resulted in a
$35.9 million
reduction in its decommissioning cost liability, along with a corresponding reduction in the related asset retirement cost asset that will be depreciated over the remaining life of the unit.
In the third quarter 2017, Entergy Wholesale Commodities recorded a revision to its estimated decommissioning cost liability for Palisades. The revised estimate resulted in a
$68.7 million
reduction in its decommissioning cost liability, along with a corresponding reduction in the plant asset. The reduction in its estimated decommissioning cost liability resulted from the change in expectation regarding the timing of decommissioning cash flows due to the decision to continue to operate the plant until the spring of 2022.
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Entergy Corporation and Subsidiaries
Notes to Financial Statements
________________
In the opinion of the management of Entergy Corporation, Entergy Arkansas, Entergy Louisiana, Entergy Mississippi, Entergy New Orleans, Entergy Texas, and System Energy, the accompanying unaudited financial statements contain all adjustments (consisting primarily of normal recurring accruals and reclassification of previously reported amounts to conform to current classifications) necessary for a fair statement of the results for the interim periods presented. Entergy’s business is subject to seasonal fluctuations, however, with peak periods occurring typically during the first and third quarters. The results for the interim periods presented should not be used as a basis for estimating results of operations for a full year.
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Part I, Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
See “
Market and Credit Risk Sensitive Instruments
” section of Entergy Corporation and Subsidiaries Management’s Financial Discussion and Analysis.
Part I, Item 4. Controls and Procedures
Disclosure Controls and Procedures
As of
September 30, 2017
, evaluations were performed under the supervision and with the participation of Entergy Corporation, Entergy Arkansas, Entergy Louisiana, Entergy Mississippi, Entergy New Orleans, Entergy Texas, and System Energy (individually “Registrant” and collectively the “Registrants”) management, including their respective Principal Executive Officers (PEO) and Principal Financial Officers (PFO). The evaluations assessed the effectiveness of the Registrants’ disclosure controls and procedures. Based on the evaluations, each PEO and PFO has concluded that, as to the Registrant or Registrants for which they serve as PEO or PFO, the Registrant’s or Registrants’ disclosure controls and procedures are effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by each Registrant in reports that it files or submits under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in Securities and Exchange Commission rules and forms; and that the Registrant’s or Registrants’ disclosure controls and procedures are also effective in reasonably assuring that such information is accumulated and communicated to the Registrant’s or Registrants’ management, including their respective PEOs and PFOs, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
Changes in Internal Controls over Financial Reporting
Under the supervision and with the participation of each Registrants’ management, including its respective PEO and PFO, each Registrant evaluated changes in internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended
September 30, 2017
and found no change that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, internal control over financial reporting.
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ENTERGY ARKANSAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
Results of Operations
Net Income
Third Quarter
2017
Compared to
Third Quarter
2016
Net income decreased $17.5 million primarily due to lower net revenue, higher nuclear refueling outage expenses, a higher effective income tax rate, and higher taxes other than income taxes, partially offset by lower other operation and maintenance expenses.
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017
Compared to
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016
Net income decreased $17.8 million primarily due to higher nuclear refueling outage expenses, higher depreciation and amortization expenses, a higher effective income tax rate, higher taxes other than income taxes, and lower net revenue, partially offset by higher other income.
Net Revenue
Third Quarter
2017
Compared to
Third Quarter
2016
Net revenue consists of operating revenues net of: 1) fuel, fuel-related expenses, and gas purchased for resale, 2) purchased power expenses, and 3) other regulatory charges (credits). Following is an analysis of the change in net revenue comparing the
third quarter
2017
to the
third quarter
2016
:
Amount
(In Millions)
2016 net revenue
$496.3
Volume/weather
(24.6
)
Retail electric price
9.7
Other
0.4
2017 net revenue
$481.8
The volume/weather variance is primarily due to the effect of less favorable weather on residential and commercial sales. The decrease was partially offset by an increase of 168 GWh, or 9%, in industrial usage primarily due to a new customer in the primary metals industry.
The retail electric price variance is primarily due to the implementation of formula rate plan rates, as approved by the APSC, effective with the first billing cycle of January 2017. The increase was partially offset by a decrease in the energy efficiency rider, as approved by the APSC, effective January 2017. See Note 2 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for further discussion of the formula rate plan filing.
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Entergy Arkansas, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Management's Financial Discussion and Analysis
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017
Compared to
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016
Net revenue consists of operating revenues net of: 1) fuel, fuel-related expenses, and gas purchased for resale, 2) purchased power expenses, and 3) other regulatory charges (credits). Following is an analysis of the change in net revenue comparing the
nine months ended September 30, 2017
to the
nine months ended September 30, 2016
:
Amount
(In Millions)
2016 net revenue
$1,183.7
Volume/weather
(40.0
)
Asset retirement obligation
(11.1
)
Opportunity sales
7.5
Retail electric price
34.1
Other
4.4
2017 net revenue
$1,178.6
The volume/weather variance is primarily due to the effect of less favorable weather on residential and commercial sales during the billed and unbilled sales periods. The decrease was partially offset by an increase of 520 GWh, or 10%, in industrial usage primarily due to a new customer in the primary metals industry.
The asset retirement obligation affects net revenue because Entergy Arkansas records a regulatory charge or credit for the difference between asset retirement obligation-related expenses and trust earnings plus asset retirement obligation-related costs collected in revenue. The variance is primarily caused by a decrease in regulatory credits because of an increase in decommissioning trust earnings, including portfolio rebalancing for the ANO 1 decommissioning trust fund.
The opportunity sales variance results from the estimated net revenue effect recorded in the first quarter 2016 in connection with the FERC orders issued in April 2016 in the opportunity sales proceeding. See Note 2 to the financial statements herein and in the Form 10-K for further discussion of the opportunity sales proceeding.
The retail electric price variance is primarily due to the implementation of formula rate plan rates effective with the first billing cycle of January 2017 and an increase in base rates effective February 24, 2016, each as approved by the APSC. A significant portion of the base rate increase was related to the purchase of Power Block 2 of the Union Power Station in March 2016. The increase was partially offset by decreases in the energy efficiency rider, as approved by the APSC, effective April 2016 and January 2017. See Note 2 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for further discussion of the rate case and formula rate plan filings. See Note 14 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for discussion of the Union Power Station purchase.
Other Income Statement Variances
Third Quarter
2017
Compared to
Third Quarter
2016
Nuclear refueling outage expenses increased primarily due to the amortization of higher costs associated with the most recent outages compared to previous outages.
Other operation and maintenance expenses decreased primarily due to:
•
a decrease of $8.8 million in nuclear generation expenses primarily due to a lower scope of work, including a lower scope of work performed during plant outages, in the third quarter 2017 compared to the third quarter 2016, partially offset by higher nuclear labor costs to position the nuclear fleet to meet its operational goals.
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See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS –
Nuclear Matters
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of the increased operating costs to position the nuclear fleet to meet its operational goals;
•
a decrease of $5.2 million in fossil-fueled generation expenses primarily due to lower long-term service agreement costs; and
•
a decrease of $4.2 million in energy efficiency costs, including $4.6 million in credits received in the third quarter 2017 related to incentives recognized as a result of participation in energy efficiency programs, and the effects of true ups to the energy efficiency filings in September 2017 for fixed costs to be collected from customers.
The decrease was partially offset by:
•
the effect of recording in July 2016 the final court decision in a lawsuit against the DOE related to spent nuclear fuel storage costs. The damages awarded included the reimbursement of $5.5 million of spent nuclear fuel storage costs previously recorded as other operation and maintenance expense. See Note 8 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for discussion of Entergy Arkansas’s spent nuclear fuel litigation; and
•
an increase of $2.1 million in transmission and distribution expenses primarily due to higher vegetation maintenance costs.
Taxes other than income taxes increased primarily due to an increase in ad valorem taxes primarily due to higher assessments and higher millage rates.
Depreciation and amortization expenses increased primarily due to additions to plant in service.
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017
Compared to
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016
Nuclear refueling outage expenses increased primarily due to the amortization of higher costs associated with the most recent outages compared to previous outages.
Other operation and maintenance expenses decreased primarily due to:
•
a decrease of $24.9 million in nuclear generation expenses primarily due to a decrease in regulatory compliance costs as compared to the prior year, partially offset by higher nuclear labor costs, including contract labor,to position the nuclear fleet to meet its operational goals. The decrease in regulatory compliance costs is primarily related to additional NRC inspection activities in 2016 as a result of the NRC’s March 2015 decision to move ANO into the “multiple/repetitive degraded cornerstone column” of the NRC’s reactor oversight process action matrix. See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
-
ANO Damage, Outage, and NRC Reviews
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of the ANO stator incident and subsequent NRC reviews. See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS –
Nuclear Matters
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of the increased operating costs to position the nuclear fleet to meet its operational goals;
•
a decrease of $7.6 million in fossil-fueled generation expenses primarily due to lower long-term service agreement costs; and
•
a decrease of $7 million in energy efficiency costs, including $4.6 million in credits received in the third quarter 2017 related to incentives recognized as a result of participation in energy efficiency programs, and the effects of true ups to the energy efficiency filings in September 2017 for fixed costs to be collected from customers.
The decrease was partially offset by:
•
the deferral in the first quarter 2016 of $7.7 million of previously-incurred costs related to ANO post-Fukushima compliance and $9.9 million of previously-incurred costs related to ANO flood barrier compliance, as approved by the APSC as part of the 2015 rate case settlement. These costs are being amortized over a ten-year period beginning March 2016. See Note 2 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for further discussion of the rate case settlement;
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•
an increase of $11 million in transmission and distribution expenses primarily due to higher vegetation maintenance costs and higher labor costs, including contract labor;
•
the effect of recording in July 2016 the final court decision in a lawsuit against the DOE related to spent nuclear fuel storage costs. The damages awarded included the reimbursement of $5.5 million of spent nuclear fuel storage costs previously recorded as other operation and maintenance expense. See Note 8 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for discussion of Entergy Arkansas’s spent nuclear fuel litigation; and
•
an increase of $3.2
million in compensation and benefits costs
primarily due to a downward revision to estimated incentive compensation expense in the first quarter 2016.
Taxes other than income taxes increased primarily due to an increase in ad valorem taxes primarily due to higher assessments and higher millage rates.
Depreciation and amortization expenses increased primarily due to additions to plant in service, including Power Block 2 of the Union Power Station purchased in March 2016. See Note 14 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for discussion of the Union Power Station purchase.
Other income increased primarily due to higher realized gains in 2017 as compared to the same period in 2016 on the decommissioning trust fund investments, including portfolio rebalancing for the ANO 1 decommissioning trust fund.
Income Taxes
The effective income tax rate was 39% for the third quarter 2017. The difference in the effective income tax rate for the
third quarter
2017
versus the federal statutory rate of 35% was primarily due to state income taxes.
The effective income tax rate was 39.4% for the nine months ended September 30, 2017. The difference in the effective income tax rate for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 versus the federal statutory rate of 35% was primarily due to state income taxes and certain book and tax differences related to utility plant items, partially offset by book and tax differences related to the allowance for equity funds used during construction.
The effective income tax rate was 36.1% for the third quarter 2016. The difference in the effective income tax rate for the third quarter 2016 versus the federal statutory rate of 35% was primarily due to state income taxes, partially offset by flow-through tax accounting.
The effective income tax rate was 37.4% for the nine months ended September 30, 2016. The difference in the effective income tax rate for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 versus the federal statutory rate of 35% was primarily due to state income taxes and certain book and tax differences related to utility plant items, partially offset by flow-through tax accounting and book and tax differences related to the allowance for equity funds used during construction.
ANO Damage, Outage, and NRC Reviews
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS -
ANO Damage, Outage, and NRC Reviews
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of the ANO stator incident, subsequent NRC reviews, and the deferral of replacement power costs.
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Liquidity and Capital Resources
Cash Flow
Cash flows for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
and
2016
were as follows:
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
$20,509
$9,135
Cash flow provided by (used in):
Operating activities
367,551
473,800
Investing activities
(667,841
)
(774,210
)
Financing activities
280,245
294,686
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
(20,045
)
(5,724
)
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$464
$3,411
Operating Activities
Net cash flow provided by operating activities decreased $106.2 million for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
compared to the
nine months ended
September 30, 2016
primarily due to an increase of $46.1 million in spending on nuclear refueling outages in 2017, the timing of payments to vendors, and a decrease in net income.
Investing Activities
Net cash flow used in investing activities decreased $106.4 million for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
compared to the
nine months ended
September 30, 2016
primarily due to the purchase of Power Block 2 of the Union Power Station in March 2016 for approximately $237 million and a decrease of $36.9 million in transmission construction expenditures primarily due to a lower scope of work performed in 2017. See Note 14 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for discussion of the Union Power Station purchase.
The decrease was partially offset by:
•
$66 million in funds held on deposit for principal and interest payments due October 1, 2017;
•
an increase of $61.6 million in nuclear construction expenditures primarily due to a higher scope of work performed on various nuclear projects in 2017;
•
an increase of $22.9 million in fossil-fueled generation construction expenditures primarily due to a higher scope of work performed on various projects in 2017;
•
an increase of $21 million in distribution construction expenditures primarily due to a higher scope of work performed on various projects in 2017; and
•
an increase of $18.6 million in information technology construction expenditures primarily due to increased spending on substation circuit replacement.
Financing Activities
Net cash flow provided by financing activities decreased $14.4 million for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
compared to the
nine months ended
September 30, 2016
primarily due to:
•
a $200 million capital contribution received from Entergy Corporation in March 2016 primarily in anticipation of Entergy Arkansas’s purchase of Power Block 2 of the Union Power Station; and
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•
net borrowings of $23.3 million on the Entergy Arkansas nuclear fuel company variable interest entity credit facility in 2017 compared to net borrowings of $35.7 million in 2016.
The decrease was partially offset by:
•
the net issuance of $215.9 million of long-term debt in 2017 as compared to the net issuance of $156.1 million of long-term debt in 2016;
•
the redemptions of $75 million of 6.45% Series preferred stock and $10 million of 6.08% Series preferred stock in 2016; and
•
money pool activity.
Increases in Entergy Arkansas’s payable to the money pool are a source of cash flow, and Entergy Arkansas’s payable to the money pool increased by $43.9 million in 2017 compared to decreasing by $3.7 million in 2016. The money pool is an inter-company borrowing arrangement designed to reduce the Utility subsidiaries’ need for external short-term borrowings.
See Note 4 to the financial statements herein and Note 5 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for more details on long-term debt.
Capital Structure
Entergy Arkansas’s capitalization is balanced between equity and debt, as shown in the following table.
September 30,
2017
December 31,
2016
Debt to capital
55.8
%
55.3
%
Effect of excluding the securitization bonds
(0.3
%)
(0.4
%)
Debt to capital, excluding securitization bonds (a)
55.5
%
54.9
%
Effect of subtracting cash
—
%
(0.2
%)
Net debt to net capital, excluding securitization bonds (a)
55.5
%
54.7
%
(a)
Calculation excludes the securitization bonds, which are non-recourse to Entergy Arkansas.
Net debt consists of debt less cash and cash equivalents. Debt consists of short-term borrowings and long-term debt, including the currently maturing portion. Capital consists of debt, preferred stock without sinking fund, and common equity. Net capital consists of capital less cash and cash equivalents. Entergy Arkansas uses the debt to capital ratios excluding securitization bonds in analyzing its financial condition and believes they provide useful information to its investors and creditors in evaluating Entergy Arkansas’s financial condition because the securitization bonds are non-recourse to Entergy Arkansas, as more fully described in Note 5 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K. Entergy Arkansas also uses the net debt to net capital ratio excluding securitization bonds in analyzing its financial condition and believes it provides useful information to its investors and creditors in evaluating Entergy Arkansas’s financial condition because net debt indicates Entergy Arkansas’s outstanding debt position that could not be readily satisfied by cash and cash equivalents on hand.
Uses and Sources of Capital
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS -
Liquidity and Capital Resources
”
in the Form 10-K for a discussion of Entergy Arkansas’s uses and sources of capital. Following are updates to the information provided in the Form 10-K.
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Entergy Arkansas is developing its capital investment plan for 2018 through 2020 and currently anticipates making $2.1 billion in capital investments during that period. The preliminary estimate includes amounts associated with specific investments such as transmission projects to enhance reliability, reduce congestion, and enable economic growth; distribution spending to enhance reliability and improve service to customers, including initial investment to support advanced metering; resource planning, including potential generation projects; system improvements; investments in ANO 1 and 2; and other investments. Estimated capital expenditures are subject to periodic review and modification and may vary based on the ongoing effects of regulatory constraints and requirements, environmental compliance, business opportunities, market volatility, economic trends, business restructuring, changes in project plans, and the ability to access capital.
Entergy Arkansas’s payables to the money pool were as follows:
September 30,
2017
December 31,
2016
September 30,
2016
December 31,
2015
(In Thousands)
$95,114
$51,232
$49,073
$52,742
See Note 4 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for a description of the money pool.
Entergy Arkansas has a credit facility in the amount of $150 million scheduled to expire in August 2022. Entergy Arkansas also has a $20 million credit facility scheduled to expire in April 2018. The $150 million credit facility permits the issuance of letters of credit against 50% of the borrowing capacity of the facility. As of September 30, 2017, there were no cash borrowings and no letters of credit outstanding under the credit facilities. In addition, Entergy Arkansas is a party to an uncommitted letter of credit facility as a means to post collateral to support its obligations to MISO. As of September 30, 2017, a $2 million letter of credit was outstanding under Entergy Arkansas’s uncommitted letter of credit facility. See Note 4 to the financial statements herein for additional discussion of the credit facilities.
The Entergy Arkansas nuclear fuel company variable interest entity has a credit facility in the amount of $80 million scheduled to expire in May 2019. As of September 30, 2017, $8.3 million in letters of credit to support a like amount of commercial paper issued and $15 million in loans were outstanding under the Entergy Arkansas nuclear fuel company variable interest entity credit facility. See Note 4 to the financial statements herein for additional discussion of the nuclear fuel company variable interest entity credit facility.
State and Local Rate Regulation and Fuel-Cost Recovery
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS –
State and Local Rate Regulation and Fuel-Cost Recovery
”
in the Form 10-K for a discussion of state and local rate regulation and fuel-cost recovery. The following are updates to that discussion.
Retail Rates
2016 Formula Rate Plan Filing
As discussed in the Form 10-K, Entergy Arkansas is required to make a supplemental filing supporting the recovery of certain nuclear costs. In April 2017, Entergy Arkansas filed a motion consented to by all parties requesting that it be permitted to submit its supplemental filing in conjunction with its 2017 formula rate plan filing, which was subsequently made in July 2017 and is discussed below. In May 2017 the APSC approved the joint motion and proposal to review Entergy Arkansas’s supplemental filing on a concurrent schedule with the 2017 formula rate plan filing. In doing so, however, the APSC noted that a determination of whether the supplemental information supporting certain nuclear expenditures will be considered in the hearing for the 2017 formula rate plan filing or a separate hearing will be made at a later time. In October 2017, Entergy Arkansas and the parties to the proceeding filed a joint motion to
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approve a unanimous settlement agreement resolving all issues in the docket and providing for recovery of the 2017 and 2018 nuclear costs.
2017 Formula Rate Plan Filing
In July 2017, Entergy Arkansas filed with the APSC its 2017 formula rate plan filing showing Entergy Arkansas’s projected earned return on common equity for the twelve months ended December 31, 2018 test period to be below the formula rate plan bandwidth. The filing projected a
$129.7 million
revenue requirement increase to achieve Entergy Arkansas’s target earned return on common equity of
9.75%
. Entergy Arkansas’s formula rate plan is subject to a
four
percent annual revenue constraint and the projected annual revenue requirement increase exceeds the four percent, resulting in a proposed increase for the 2017 formula rate plan of
$70.9 million
. In October 2017, Entergy Arkansas filed with the APSC revised formula rate plan attachments that projected a
$126.2 million
revenue requirement increase based on acceptance of certain adjustments and recommendations made by the APSC staff and other intervenors. The revised formula rate plan filing included a proposed
$71.1 million
revenue requirement increase based on a revision to the four percent cap calculation. In October 2017, Entergy Arkansas and the parties to the proceeding filed a joint motion to approve a unanimous settlement agreement resolving all issues in the docket and providing for recovery of the 2017 and 2018 nuclear costs. The settlement agreement does not affect Entergy Arkansas’s proposed $71.1 million revenue requirement increase. If a final order is not issued by December 13, 2017, the proposed formula rate plan adjustment will become effective January 2, 2018, subject to refund.
Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) Filing
As discussed in the Form 10-K, in September 2016, Entergy Arkansas filed an application seeking a finding from the APSC that Entergy Arkansas’s deployment of advanced metering infrastructure is in the public interest. In June 2017 the APSC staff and Arkansas Attorney General filed direct testimony. The APSC staff generally supported Entergy Arkansas’s AMI deployment conditioned on various recommendations. The Arkansas Attorney General’s consultant primarily recommended denial of Entergy Arkansas’s application but alternatively suggested recommendations in the event the APSC approves Entergy Arkansas’s proposal. Entergy Arkansas filed rebuttal testimony in June 2017, substantially accepting the APSC staff’s recommendations. In August 2017, Entergy Arkansas and the parties to the proceeding filed a joint motion to approve a unanimous settlement agreement. Also in August 2017 supplemental testimony was filed and a settlement hearing was held. In October 2017 the APSC issued an order finding that Entergy Arkansas’s AMI deployment is in the public interest and approving the settlement agreement subject to a minor modification. Entergy Arkansas expects to recover the undepreciated balance of its existing meters through a regulatory asset to be amortized over 15 years.
Energy Cost Recovery Rider
In March 2017, Entergy Arkansas filed its annual redetermination of its energy cost rate pursuant to the energy cost recovery rider, which reflected an increase in the rate from
$0.01164
per kWh to
$0.01547
per kWh. The APSC staff filed testimony in March 2017 recommending that the redetermined rate should be implemented with the first billing cycle of April 2017 under the normal operation of the tariff. Accordingly, the redetermined rate went into effect on March 31, 2017 pursuant to the tariff. In July 2017 the Arkansas Attorney General requested additional information to support certain of the costs included in Entergy Arkansas’s 2017 energy cost rate redetermination.
Opportunity Sales Proceedings
As discussed in the Form 10-K, in June 2009 the LPSC filed a complaint requesting that the FERC determine that certain of Entergy Arkansas’s sales of electric energy to third parties: (a) violated the provisions of the System Agreement that allocated the energy generated by Entergy System resources, (b) imprudently denied the Entergy System and its ultimate consumers the benefits of low-cost Entergy System generating capacity, and (c) violated the provision of the System Agreement that prohibited sales to third parties by individual companies absent an offer of a right-of-
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first-refusal to other Utility operating companies. The LPSC’s complaint challenges sales made beginning in 2002 and requests refunds.
In April 2016 the FERC issued orders addressing requests for rehearing filed in July 2012 and an ALJ’s August 2013 initial decision. The first order denies Entergy’s request for rehearing and affirms FERC’s earlier rulings that Entergy’s original methodology for allocating energy costs to the opportunity sales was incorrect and, as a result, Entergy Arkansas must make payments to the other Utility operating companies to put them in the same position that they would have been in absent the incorrect allocation. The FERC clarified that interest should be included with the payments. The second order affirmed in part, and reversed in part, the rulings in the ALJ’s August 2013 initial decision regarding the methodology that should be used to calculate the payments Entergy Arkansas is to make to the other Utility operating companies. The FERC affirmed the ALJ’s ruling that a full re-run of intra-system bills should be performed, but required that methodology be modified so that the sales have the same priority for purposes of energy allocation as joint account sales. The FERC reversed the ALJ’s decision that any payments by Entergy Arkansas should be reduced by
20%
. The FERC also reversed the ALJ’s decision that adjustments to other System Agreement service schedules and excess bandwidth payments should not be taken into account when calculating the payments to be made by Entergy Arkansas. The FERC held that such adjustments and excess bandwidth payments should be taken into account, but ordered further proceedings before an ALJ to address whether a cap on any reduction due to bandwidth payments was necessary and to implement the other adjustments to the calculation methodology.
In May 2016, Entergy Services filed a request for rehearing of the FERC’s April 2016 order arguing that payments made by Entergy Arkansas should be reduced as a result of the timing of the LPSC’s approval of certain contracts. Entergy Services also filed a request for clarification and/or rehearing of the FERC’s April 2016 order addressing the ALJ’s August 2013 initial decision. The APSC and the LPSC also filed requests for rehearing of the FERC’s April 2016 order. In September 2017 the FERC issued an order denying the request for rehearing on the issue of whether any payments by Entergy Arkansas to the other Utility operating companies should be reduced due to the timing of the LPSC’s approval of Entergy Arkansas’s wholesale baseload contract with Entergy Louisiana.
Pursuant to the procedural schedule established in the case, Entergy Services re-ran intra-system bills for the ten-year period 2000-2009 to quantify the effects of the FERC's ruling. In November 2016 the LPSC submitted testimony disputing certain aspects of the calculations, and Entergy Services submitted answering testimony in January 2017. In February 2017 the FERC staff filed testimony and Entergy Services filed responsive testimony. In March 2017 the LPSC filed rebuttal testimony. A hearing was held in May 2017. In July 2017 the ALJ issued an initial decision concluding that Entergy Arkansas should pay
$86 million
plus interest to the other Utility operating companies.
In August 2017 the Utility operating companies, the LPSC, the APSC, and FERC staff filed individual briefs on exceptions challenging various aspects of the initial decision. In September 2017 the Utility operating companies, the LPSC, the APSC, the MPSC, the City Council, and FERC staff filed separate briefs opposing exceptions taken by various parties. The case is pending before the FERC. No payments will be made or received by the Utility operating companies until the FERC issues an order reviewing the initial decision and Entergy submits a subsequent filing to comply with that order.
The effect of the FERC’s decisions thus far in the case would be that Entergy Arkansas will make payments to some or all of the other Utility operating companies. Because further proceedings will still occur in the case, the amount and recipients of payments by Entergy Arkansas are unknown at this time. Based on testimony previously submitted in the case and its assessment of the April 2016 FERC orders, in the first quarter 2016, Entergy Arkansas recorded a liability of
$87 million
, which includes interest, for its estimated increased costs and payment to the other Utility operating companies. This estimate is subject to change depending on how the FERC resolves the issues that are still outstanding in the case, including its review of the July 2017 initial decision. Entergy Arkansas’s increased costs will be attributed to Entergy Arkansas’s retail and wholesale businesses, and it is not probable that Entergy Arkansas will recover the wholesale portion. Entergy Arkansas, therefore, recorded a regulatory asset in the first quarter 2016 of approximately
$75 million
, which represents its estimate of the retail portion of the costs.
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Federal Regulation
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS –
Federal Regulation
”
in the Form 10-K for a discussion of federal regulation.
Nuclear Matters
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS -
Nuclear Matters
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of nuclear matters.
Environmental Risks
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS -
Environmental Risks
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of environmental risks.
Critical Accounting Estimates
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS -
Critical Accounting Estimates
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of the estimates and judgments necessary in Entergy Arkansas’s accounting for nuclear decommissioning costs, utility regulatory accounting, unbilled revenue, impairment of long-lived assets and trust fund investments, taxation and uncertain tax positions, qualified pension and other postretirement benefits, and other contingencies.
New Accounting Pronouncements
See “
New Accounting Pronouncements
” section of Entergy Corporation and Subsidiaries Management’s Financial Discussion and Analysis for further discussion.
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ENTERGY ARKANSAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENTS
For the Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 and 2016
(Unaudited)
Three Months Ended
Nine Months Ended
2017
2016
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
(In Thousands)
OPERATING REVENUES
Electric
$673,226
$654,599
$1,644,239
$1,624,224
OPERATING EXPENSES
Operation and Maintenance:
Fuel, fuel-related expenses, and gas purchased for resale
133,254
105,147
283,354
274,106
Purchased power
63,423
52,023
193,108
163,541
Nuclear refueling outage expenses
22,988
14,554
59,942
44,604
Other operation and maintenance
175,013
187,294
512,691
514,109
Decommissioning
14,320
13,504
42,321
39,908
Taxes other than income taxes
29,259
24,931
78,438
70,978
Depreciation and amortization
70,433
67,309
206,586
197,597
Other regulatory charges (credits) - net
(5,219
)
1,177
(10,797
)
2,896
TOTAL
503,471
465,939
1,365,643
1,307,739
OPERATING INCOME
169,755
188,660
278,596
316,485
OTHER INCOME
Allowance for equity funds used during construction
4,140
3,734
13,922
12,661
Interest and investment income
6,738
5,410
27,865
14,774
Miscellaneous - net
183
812
19
(983
)
TOTAL
11,061
9,956
41,806
26,452
INTEREST EXPENSE
Interest expense
31,010
28,152
86,776
88,726
Allowance for borrowed funds used during construction
(1,944
)
(2,000
)
(6,458
)
(6,851
)
TOTAL
29,066
26,152
80,318
81,875
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES
151,750
172,464
240,084
261,062
Income taxes
59,112
62,316
94,592
97,729
NET INCOME
92,638
110,148
145,492
163,333
Preferred dividend requirements
357
1,476
1,071
4,913
EARNINGS APPLICABLE TO COMMON STOCK
$92,281
$108,672
$144,421
$158,420
See Notes to Financial Statements.
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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 and 2016
(Unaudited)
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net income
$145,492
$163,333
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash flow provided by operating activities:
Depreciation, amortization, and decommissioning, including nuclear fuel amortization
311,725
319,845
Deferred income taxes, investment tax credits, and non-current taxes accrued
78,390
163,202
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Receivables
(45,180
)
(116,584
)
Fuel inventory
10,089
28,968
Accounts payable
(78,396
)
95,116
Prepaid taxes and taxes accrued
15,367
(78,879
)
Interest accrued
12,436
5,909
Deferred fuel costs
(53,664
)
(50,687
)
Other working capital accounts
(6,762
)
4,259
Provisions for estimated losses
10,094
130
Other regulatory assets
(4,680
)
(5,680
)
Pension and other postretirement liabilities
(73,107
)
(77,823
)
Other assets and liabilities
45,747
22,691
Net cash flow provided by operating activities
367,551
473,800
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Construction expenditures
(558,985
)
(494,071
)
Allowance for equity funds used during construction
14,521
13,134
Payment for purchase of plant
—
(237,324
)
Nuclear fuel purchases
(95,289
)
(80,716
)
Proceeds from sale of nuclear fuel
51,029
40,336
Proceeds from nuclear decommissioning trust fund sales
219,223
165,038
Investment in nuclear decommissioning trust funds
(228,740
)
(176,981
)
Changes in securitization account
(3,619
)
(3,524
)
Change in other investments
(65,981
)
—
Other
—
(102
)
Net cash flow used in investing activities
(667,841
)
(774,210
)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Proceeds from the issuance of long-term debt
222,717
777,671
Retirement of long-term debt
(6,803
)
(621,608
)
Capital contribution from parent
—
200,000
Redemption of preferred stock
—
(85,283
)
Changes in short-term borrowings - net
23,257
35,717
Changes in money pool payable - net
43,882
(3,669
)
Dividends paid:
Preferred stock
(1,071
)
(6,274
)
Other
(1,737
)
(1,868
)
Net cash flow provided by financing activities
280,245
294,686
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
(20,045
)
(5,724
)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
20,509
9,135
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$464
$3,411
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
Cash paid during the period for:
Interest - net of amount capitalized
$70,321
$78,500
Income taxes
$—
$7,242
See Notes to Financial Statements.
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ENTERGY ARKANSAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
ASSETS
September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
CURRENT ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents:
Cash
$127
$20,174
Temporary cash investments
337
335
Total cash and cash equivalents
464
20,509
Securitization recovery trust account
7,759
4,140
Accounts receivable:
Customer
140,147
102,229
Allowance for doubtful accounts
(1,531
)
(1,211
)
Associated companies
35,455
35,286
Other
52,109
58,153
Accrued unbilled revenues
113,650
100,193
Total accounts receivable
339,830
294,650
Deferred fuel costs
150,206
96,690
Fuel inventory - at average cost
22,671
32,760
Materials and supplies - at average cost
191,199
182,600
Deferred nuclear refueling outage costs
80,769
81,313
Prepayments and other
81,322
14,293
TOTAL
874,220
726,955
OTHER PROPERTY AND INVESTMENTS
Decommissioning trust funds
910,369
834,735
Other
3,162
7,912
TOTAL
913,531
842,647
UTILITY PLANT
Electric
10,823,675
10,488,060
Property under capital lease
598
716
Construction work in progress
365,938
304,073
Nuclear fuel
236,447
307,352
TOTAL UTILITY PLANT
11,426,658
11,100,201
Less - accumulated depreciation and amortization
4,721,860
4,635,885
UTILITY PLANT - NET
6,704,798
6,464,316
DEFERRED DEBITS AND OTHER ASSETS
Regulatory assets:
Regulatory asset for income taxes - net
67,228
62,646
Other regulatory assets (includes securitization property of $31,448 as of September 30, 2017 and $41,164 as of December 31, 2016)
1,428,127
1,428,029
Deferred fuel costs
67,046
66,898
Other
16,126
14,626
TOTAL
1,578,527
1,572,199
TOTAL ASSETS
$10,071,076
$9,606,117
See Notes to Financial Statements.
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ENTERGY ARKANSAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Currently maturing long-term debt
$114,700
$114,700
Short-term borrowings
8,257
—
Accounts payable:
Associated companies
237,246
239,711
Other
142,160
185,153
Customer deposits
97,432
97,512
Taxes accrued
22,561
7,194
Interest accrued
29,016
16,580
Other
34,329
36,557
TOTAL
685,701
697,407
NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES
Accumulated deferred income taxes and taxes accrued
2,265,375
2,186,623
Accumulated deferred investment tax credits
34,404
35,305
Other regulatory liabilities
349,380
305,907
Decommissioning
966,674
924,353
Accumulated provisions
28,776
18,682
Pension and other postretirement liabilities
351,046
424,234
Long-term debt (includes securitization bonds of $41,578 as of September 30, 2017 and $48,139 as of December 31, 2016)
2,948,610
2,715,085
Other
12,022
13,854
TOTAL
6,956,287
6,624,043
Commitments and Contingencies
Preferred stock without sinking fund
31,350
31,350
COMMON EQUITY
Common stock, $0.01 par value, authorized 325,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding 46,980,196 shares in 2017 and 2016
470
470
Paid-in capital
790,243
790,243
Retained earnings
1,607,025
1,462,604
TOTAL
2,397,738
2,253,317
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
$10,071,076
$9,606,117
See Notes to Financial Statements.
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ENTERGY ARKANSAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN COMMON EQUITY
For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 and 2016
(Unaudited)
Common Equity
Common
Stock
Paid-in
Capital
Retained
Earnings
Total
(In Thousands)
Balance at December 31, 2015
$470
$588,493
$1,302,695
$1,891,658
Net income
—
—
163,333
163,333
Capital contribution from parent
—
200,000
—
200,000
Capital stock redemption
—
1,750
(2,034
)
(284
)
Preferred stock dividends
—
—
(4,913
)
(4,913
)
Balance at September 30, 2016
$470
$790,243
$1,459,081
$2,249,794
Balance at December 31, 2016
$470
$790,243
$1,462,604
$2,253,317
Net income
—
—
145,492
145,492
Preferred stock dividends
—
—
(1,071
)
(1,071
)
Balance at September 30, 2017
$470
$790,243
$1,607,025
$2,397,738
See Notes to Financial Statements.
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ENTERGY ARKANSAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
SELECTED OPERATING RESULTS
For the Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 and 2016
(Unaudited)
Three Months Ended
Increase/
Description
2017
2016
(Decrease)
%
(Dollars In Millions)
Electric Operating Revenues:
Residential
$254
$275
($21
)
(8
)
Commercial
150
151
(1
)
(1
)
Industrial
145
137
8
6
Governmental
6
5
1
20
Total retail
555
568
(13
)
(2
)
Sales for resale:
Associated companies
33
26
7
27
Non-associated companies
45
30
15
50
Other
40
31
9
29
Total
$673
$655
$18
3
Billed Electric Energy Sales (GWh):
Residential
2,236
2,485
(249
)
(10
)
Commercial
1,723
1,822
(99
)
(5
)
Industrial
2,074
1,906
168
9
Governmental
67
68
(1
)
(1
)
Total retail
6,100
6,281
(181
)
(3
)
Sales for resale:
Associated companies
483
463
20
4
Non-associated companies
2,026
1,632
394
24
Total
8,609
8,376
233
3
Nine Months Ended
Increase/
Description
2017
2016
(Decrease)
%
(Dollars In Millions)
Electric Operating Revenues:
Residential
$597
$620
($23
)
(4
)
Commercial
375
376
(1
)
—
Industrial
355
337
18
5
Governmental
15
13
2
15
Total retail
1,342
1,346
(4
)
—
Sales for resale:
Associated companies
96
19
77
405
Non-associated companies
96
105
(9
)
(9
)
Other
110
154
(44
)
(29
)
Total
$1,644
$1,624
$20
1
Billed Electric Energy Sales (GWh):
Residential
5,625
5,918
(293
)
(5
)
Commercial
4,410
4,512
(102
)
(2
)
Industrial
5,584
5,064
520
10
Governmental
180
179
1
1
Total retail
15,799
15,673
126
1
Sales for resale:
Associated companies
1,316
1,427
(111
)
(8
)
Non-associated companies
4,374
6,440
(2,066
)
(32
)
Total
21,489
23,540
(2,051
)
(9
)
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ENTERGY LOUISIANA, LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
Results of Operations
Net Income
Third Quarter
2017
Compared to
Third Quarter
2016
Net income decreased $3.2 million primarily due to higher other operation and maintenance expenses and higher taxes other than income taxes, partially offset by higher other income.
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017
Compared to
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016
Net income decreased $149.3 million primarily due to the effect of a settlement with the IRS related to the 2010-2011 IRS audit which resulted in a $136.1 million reduction of income tax expense in 2016. See Note 3 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for additional discussion of the settlement and benefit sharing.
Net Revenue
Third Quarter
2017
Compared to
Third Quarter
2016
Net revenue consists of operating revenues net of: 1) fuel, fuel-related expenses, and gas purchased for resale, 2) purchased power expenses, and 3) other regulatory charges (credits). Following is an analysis of the change in net revenue comparing the third quarter 2017 to the third quarter 2016:
Amount
(In Millions)
2016 net revenue
$719.8
Volume/weather
(20.6
)
Retail electric price
13.8
Other
4.4
2017 net revenue
$717.4
The volume/weather variance is primarily due to the effect of less favorable weather on residential and commercial sales. The decrease was partially offset by an increase of 282 GWh, or 4%, in industrial usage primarily due to an increase in demand for existing customers as well as expansion projects in the chemicals industry.
The retail electric price variance is primarily due to the timing of recovery of purchased power capacity costs through the formula rate plan mechanism.
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Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017
Compared to
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016
Net revenue consists of operating revenues net of: 1) fuel, fuel-related expenses, and gas purchased for resale, 2) purchased power expenses, and 3) other regulatory charges (credits). Following is an analysis of the change in net revenue comparing the nine months ended September 30, 2017 to the nine months ended September 30, 2016:
Amount
(In Millions)
2016 net revenue
$1,891.8
Retail electric price
23.1
Louisiana Act 55 financing savings obligation
17.2
Volume/weather
(31.6
)
Other
1.2
2017 net revenue
$1,901.7
The retail electric price variance is primarily due to an increase in formula rate plan revenues, implemented with the first billing cycle of March 2016, to collect the estimated first-year revenue requirement related to the purchase of Power Blocks 3 and 4 of the Union Power Station in March 2016 and the timing of recovery of purchased power costs through the formula rate plan mechanism. See Note 2 to the financial statements herein and in the Form 10-K for further discussion of formula rate plan revenues.
The Louisiana Act 55 financing savings obligation variance results from a regulatory charge recorded in 2016 for tax savings to be shared with customers per an agreement approved by the LPSC. The tax savings resulted from the 2010-2011 IRS audit settlement on the treatment of the Louisiana Act 55 financing of storm costs for Hurricane Gustav and Hurricane Ike. See Note 3 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for additional discussion of the settlement and benefit sharing.
The volume/weather variance is primarily due to the effect of less favorable weather on residential and commercial sales and decreased usage during the unbilled sales period. This decrease was partially offset by an increase of 610 GWh, or 3%, in industrial usage primarily due to an increase in demand for existing customers, expansion projects in the chemicals industry, and an increase in demand for cogeneration customers, partially offset by an extended seasonal outage for an existing large refinery customer.
Other Income Statement Variances
Third Quarter
2017
Compared to
Third Quarter
2016
Other operation and maintenance expenses increased primarily due to an increase of $10.4 million in nuclear generation expenses primarily due to higher nuclear labor costs, including contract labor, to position the nuclear fleet to meet its operational goals and a higher scope of work performed during plant outages in the third quarter 2017 as compared to the third quarter 2016.
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS –
Nuclear Matters
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of the increased operating costs to position the nuclear fleet to meet its operational goals
.
Taxes other than income taxes increased primarily due to increases in ad valorem taxes, local franchise fees, and state franchise taxes. Ad valorem taxes increased primarily due to higher assessments, including the assessment of Arkansas ad valorem taxes on the Union Power Station beginning in 2017. Local franchise fees increased primarily due to higher revenues in the third quarter 2017 as compared to the third quarter 2016. State franchise taxes increased primarily due to a change in the Louisiana franchise tax law which became effective for 2017.
Other income increased primarily due to an increase in the allowance for equity funds used during construction due to higher construction work in progress in the third quarter 2017 as compared to the third quarter 2016, which
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included the St. Charles Power Station project, and higher realized gains in the third quarter 2017 as compared to the third quarter 2016 on the River Bend and Waterford 3 decommissioning trust fund investments.
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017
Compared to
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016
Other operation and maintenance expenses increased primarily due to:
•
an increase of $12.3 million in nuclear generation expenses primarily due to higher nuclear labor costs, including contract labor, to position the nuclear fleet to meet its operational goals, partially offset by a lower scope of work performed during plant outages in 2017 as compared to the same period in 2016.
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS –
Nuclear Matters
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of the increased operating costs to position the nuclear fleet to meet its operational goals;
•
an increase of $4.3 million in compensation and benefits costs
primarily due to a downward revision to estimated incentive compensation expense in first quarter 2016
;
•
an increase of $3.6 million in fossil-fueled generation expenses primarily due to the purchase of Power Blocks 3 and 4 of the Union Power Station in March 2016, partially offset by asbestos loss provisions in 2016;
•
an increase of $3.5 million as a result of the amount of transmission costs allocated by MISO.
See Note 2 to the financial statements herein and in the Form 10-K for further information on the recovery of these costs;
•
an increase of $3.4 million in other loss provisions; and
•
an increase of $2.1 million in transmission expenses primarily due to higher labor costs, including contract labor.
Taxes other than income taxes increased primarily due to increases in ad valorem taxes, local franchise fees, state franchise taxes, and payroll taxes. Ad valorem taxes increased primarily due to higher assessments, including the assessment of Arkansas ad valorem taxes on the Union Power Station beginning in 2017. Local franchise fees increased primarily due to higher revenues in 2017 as compared to 2016. State franchise taxes increased primarily due to a change in the Louisiana franchise tax law which became effective for 2017.
Depreciation and amortization expenses increased primarily due to additions to plant in service, including Power Blocks 3 and 4 of the Union Power Station purchased in March 2016 and the effects of recording in third quarter 2016 final court decisions in the River Bend and Waterford 3 lawsuits against the DOE related to spent nuclear fuel storage costs. The damages awarded include the reimbursement of approximately $6 million of spent nuclear fuel storage costs previously recorded as depreciation expense. See Note 14 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for discussion of the Union Power Station purchase. See Note 8 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for discussion of the spent nuclear fuel litigation.
Other income increased primarily due to an increase in the allowance for equity funds used during construction due to higher construction work in progress in 2017 as compared to the same period in 2016, which included the St. Charles Power Station project, and higher realized gains in 2017 as compared to the same period in 2016 on the River Bend decommissioning trust fund investments, including portfolio rebalancing to the 30% interest in River Bend formerly owned by Cajun.
Interest expense decreased primarily due to an increase in the allowance for borrowed funds used during construction due to higher construction work in progress in 2017 as compared to the same period in 2016, which included the St. Charles Power Station project.
Income Taxes
The effective income tax rates were 33.6% for the third quarter 2017 and 32.4% for the nine months ended September 30, 2017. The differences in the effective income tax rates for the third quarter 2017 and the nine months ended September 30, 2017 versus the federal statutory rate of 35% were primarily due to book and tax differences
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Management's Financial Discussion and Analysis
related to the non-taxable income distributions earned on preferred membership interests and book and tax differences related to the allowance for equity funds used during construction, partially offset by state income taxes.
The effective income tax rate was 34.4% for the third quarter 2016. The difference in the effective income tax rate for the third quarter 2016 versus the federal statutory rate of 35% was primarily due to book and tax differences related to the non-taxable income distributions earned on preferred membership interests, partially offset by state income taxes.
The effective income tax rate was 10.4% for the nine months ended September 30, 2016. The difference in the effective income tax rate for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 versus the federal statutory rate of 35% was primarily due to the reversal of a portion of the provision for uncertain tax positions as a result of the settlement of the 2010-2011 IRS audit in the second quarter 2016 and book and tax differences related to the non-taxable income distributions earned on preferred membership interests, partially offset by state income taxes. See Note 3 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for additional discussion of the 2010-2011 IRS audit settlement.
Louisiana Tax Legislation
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS –
Louisiana Tax Legislation
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of the Louisiana tax legislation.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Cash Flow
Cash flows for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
and
2016
were as follows:
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
$213,850
$35,102
Cash flow provided by (used in):
Operating activities
927,176
877,945
Investing activities
(1,379,365
)
(1,138,425
)
Financing activities
293,862
320,457
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
(158,327
)
59,977
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$55,523
$95,079
Operating Activities
Net cash flow provided by operating activities increased $49.2 million for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
compared to the
nine months ended
September 30, 2016
primarily due to:
•
income tax refunds of $116.9 million in 2017 compared to income tax payments of $62.7 million in 2016. Entergy Louisiana received income tax refunds in 2017 and made income tax payments in 2016 in accordance with an intercompany income tax allocation agreement. The income tax refunds in 2017 resulted from the utilization of Entergy Louisiana’s net operating losses. The income tax payments in 2016 related to the 2016 payments for state taxes resulting from the effect of the final settlement of the 2006-2007 IRS audit and the effect of net operating loss limitations. See Note 3 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for a discussion of the audit. See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS -
Louisiana Tax Legislation
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion on the net operating loss limitations; and
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•
an interest payment of $60 million made in March 2016 related to the purchase of a beneficial interest in the Waterford 3 leased assets.
The increase was partially offset by:
•
a refund to customers in January 2017 of approximately $71 million as a result of the settlement approved by the LPSC related to the Waterford 3 replacement steam generator project. See Note 2 to the financial statements herein and in the Form 10-K for discussion of the settlement and refund;
•
an increase of $64 million in spending on nuclear refueling outages;
•
a decrease due to the timing of recovery of fuel and purchased power costs; and
•
proceeds of $25.1 million received in August 2016 from the DOE resulting from litigation regarding spent nuclear fuel storage costs that were previously expensed. See Note 1 to the financial statements herein and Note 8 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for a discussion of the DOE litigation.
Investing Activities
Net cash flow used in investing activities increased $240.9 million for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
compared to the
nine months ended
September 30, 2016
primarily due to:
•
an increase of $297.1 million in fossil-fueled generation construction expenditures primarily due to higher spending on the St. Charles Power Station and Lake Charles Power Station projects in 2017;
•
fluctuations in nuclear fuel activity because of variations from year to year in the timing and pricing of fuel reload requirements in the Utility business, material and service deliveries, and the timing of cash payments during the nuclear fuel cycle;
•
an increase of $95.3 million in transmission construction expenditures due to a higher scope of work performed in 2017 as compared to the same period in 2016;
•
an increase of $60.7 million in nuclear construction expenditures primarily due to increased spending on various nuclear projects in 2017;
•
money pool activity;
•
$33.3 million in funds held on deposit for interest payments due October 1, 2017;
•
an increase of $25.8 million in information technology construction expenditures due to increased spending on advanced metering infrastructure;
•
an increase of $17.3 million in distribution construction expenditures due to increased spending on digital technology improvements within the customer contact centers; and
•
proceeds of $17.3 million received in August 2016 from the DOE resulting from litigation regarding spent nuclear fuel storage costs that were previously capitalized. See Note 1 to the financial statements herein and Note 8 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for discussion of the DOE litigation.
The increase was partially offset by the purchase of Power Blocks 3 and 4 of the Union Power Station for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $475 million in March 2016. See Note 14 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for discussion of the Union Power Station purchase.
Increases in Entergy Louisiana’s receivable from the money pool are a use of cash flow, and Entergy Louisiana‘s receivable from the money pool increased by $50.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 compared to increasing by $3.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016. The money pool is an inter-company borrowing arrangement designed to reduce the Utility subsidiaries’ need for external short-term borrowings.
Financing Activities
Net cash flow provided by financing activities decreased $26.6 million for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
compared to the
nine months ended
September 30, 2016
primarily due to the net issuance of $350.5 million of long-term debt in 2017 compared to the net issuance of $557.7 million in 2016.
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The decrease was partially offset by:
•
a decrease of $123.8 million of common equity distributions primarily as a result of higher construction expenditures and higher nuclear fuel purchases in 2017 as compared to the same period in 2016; and
•
net borrowings of $36.8 million on the nuclear fuel company variable interest entities’ credit facilities in 2017 compared to net repayments of $18.4 million in 2016.
See Note 4 to the financial statements herein and Note 5 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for more details on long-term debt.
Capital Structure
Entergy Louisiana’s capitalization is balanced between equity and debt, as shown in the following table.
September 30,
2017
December 31,
2016
Debt to capital
53.5
%
53.4
%
Effect of excluding securitization bonds
(0.4
%)
(0.5
%)
Debt to capital, excluding securitization bonds (a)
53.1
%
52.9
%
Effect of subtracting cash
(0.2
%)
(0.9
%)
Net debt to net capital, excluding securitization bonds (a)
52.9
%
52.0
%
(a)
Calculation excludes the securitization bonds, which are non-recourse to Entergy Louisiana.
Net debt consists of debt less cash and cash equivalents. Debt consists of short-term borrowings and long-term debt, including the currently maturing portion. Capital consists of debt and common equity. Net capital consists of capital less cash and cash equivalents. Entergy Louisiana uses the debt to capital ratios excluding securitization bonds in analyzing its financial condition and believes they provide useful information to its investors and creditors in evaluating Entergy Louisiana’s financial condition because the securitization bonds are non-recourse to Entergy Louisiana, as more fully described in Note 5 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K. Entergy Louisiana also uses the net debt to net capital ratio excluding securitization bonds in analyzing its financial condition and believes it provides useful information to its investors and creditors in evaluating Entergy Louisiana’s financial condition because net debt indicates Entergy Louisiana’s outstanding debt position that could not be readily satisfied by cash and cash equivalents on hand.
Uses and Sources of Capital
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS -
Liquidity and Capital Resources
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of Entergy Louisiana’s uses and sources of capital. Following are updates to the information provided in the Form 10-K.
Entergy Louisiana is developing its capital investment plan for 2018 through 2020 and currently anticipates making $4.1 billion in capital investments during that period. The preliminary estimate includes amounts associated with specific investments, such as the St. Charles Power Station and the Lake Charles Power Station, discussed below; transmission projects to enhance reliability, reduce congestion, and enable economic growth; distribution spending to enhance reliability and improve service to customers, including initial investment to support advanced metering; resource planning, including potential generation projects; system improvements; investments in River Bend and Waterford 3; and other investments. Estimated capital expenditures are subject to periodic review and modification and may vary based on the ongoing effects of regulatory constraints and requirements, environmental compliance, business opportunities, market volatility, economic trends, business restructuring, changes in project plans, and the ability to access capital.
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Entergy Louisiana’s receivables from the money pool were as follows:
September 30,
2017
December 31,
2016
September 30,
2016
December 31,
2015
(In Thousands)
$72,899
$22,503
$9,428
$6,154
See Note 4 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for a description of the money pool.
Entergy Louisiana has a credit facility in the amount of $350 million scheduled to expire in August 2022. The credit facility permits the issuance of letters of credit against 50% of the borrowing capacity of the facility. As of
September 30, 2017
, there were no cash borrowings and $9.1 million of letters of credit outstanding under the credit facility. In addition, Entergy Louisiana is a party to an uncommitted letter of credit facility as a means to post collateral to support its obligations to MISO. As of
September 30, 2017
, a $38.5 million letter of credit was outstanding under Entergy Louisiana’s uncommitted letter of credit facility. See Note 4 to the financial statements herein for additional discussion of the credit facilities.
The Entergy Louisiana nuclear fuel company variable interest entities have two separate credit facilities, one in the amount of $105 million and one in the amount of $85 million, both scheduled to expire in May 2019. As of
September 30, 2017
, $78.8 million in loans were outstanding under the credit facility for the Entergy Louisiana River Bend nuclear fuel company variable interest entity. As of September 30, 2017, $40.6 million in letters of credit to support a like amount of commercial paper issued and $36.3 million in loans were outstanding under the Entergy Louisiana Waterford nuclear fuel company variable interest entity credit facility. See Note 4 to the financial statements herein for additional discussion of the nuclear fuel company variable interest entity credit facilities.
Lake Charles Power Station
In November 2016, Entergy Louisiana filed an application with the LPSC seeking certification that the public convenience and necessity would be served by the construction of the Lake Charles Power Station, a nominal 994 MW combined-cycle generating unit in Westlake, Louisiana, on land adjacent to the existing Nelson plant in Calcasieu Parish. The current estimated cost of the Lake Charles Power Station is $872 million, including estimated costs of transmission interconnection and other related costs. In May 2017 the parties to the proceeding agreed to an uncontested stipulation finding that construction of the Lake Charles Power Station is in the public interest and authorizing an in-service rate recovery plan. In July 2017 the LPSC issued an order unanimously approving the stipulation. Subject to the timely receipt of other permits and approvals, commercial operation is estimated to occur by mid-2020.
Washington Parish Energy Center
In April 2017, Entergy Louisiana signed a purchase and sale agreement with a subsidiary of Calpine Corporation for the acquisition of a peaking plant. Calpine will construct the plant, which will consist of two natural gas-fired combustion turbine units with a total nominal capacity of approximately 360 MW. The plant, named the Washington Parish Energy Center, will be located in Bogalusa, Louisiana and, subject to permits and approvals, is expected to be completed in 2021. Subject to regulatory approvals, Entergy Louisiana will purchase the plant once it is complete for an estimated total investment of approximately $261 million, including transmission and other related costs. In May 2017, Entergy Louisiana filed an application with the LPSC seeking certification of the plant. A procedural schedule has been established, with a hearing in April 2018.
State and Local Rate Regulation and Fuel-Cost Recovery
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS –
State and Local Rate Regulation and Fuel Cost Recovery
”
in the Form 10-K for a discussion of state and local rate regulation and fuel cost recovery. The following are updates to that discussion.
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Management's Financial Discussion and Analysis
Retail Rates - Electric
2014 Formula Rate Plan Filing
As discussed in the Form 10-K, in September 2015, Entergy Louisiana filed its formula rate plan evaluation report for Entergy Gulf States Louisiana’s and Entergy Louisiana’s 2014 calendar year operations. In June 2017 the LPSC staff and Entergy Louisiana filed an unopposed joint report of proceedings, which was accepted by the LPSC in June 2017, finalizing the results of this proceeding with no changes to rates already implemented.
2015 Formula Rate Plan Filing
As discussed in the Form 10-K, in May 2016, Entergy Louisiana filed its formula rate plan evaluation report for its 2015 calendar year operations. In June 2017 the LPSC staff and Entergy Louisiana filed a joint report of proceedings, which was accepted by the LPSC in June 2017, finalizing the results of the May 2016 evaluation report, interim updates, and corresponding proceedings with no changes to rates already implemented.
In November 2016, Entergy Louisiana filed with the LPSC a request to extend the MISO cost recovery mechanism rider provision of its formula rate plan. In March 2017 the LPSC staff submitted direct testimony generally supportive of a one-year extension of the MISO cost recovery mechanism and the intervenor in the proceeding did not oppose an extension for this period of time. In June 2017 an uncontested joint stipulation authorizing a one-year extension of the MISO cost recovery mechanism rider was filed and the LPSC approved the stipulation in July 2017.
2016 Formula Rate Plan Filing
In May 2017, Entergy Louisiana filed its formula rate plan evaluation report for its 2016 calendar year operations. The evaluation report reflects an earned return on common equity of 9.84%. As such, no adjustment to base formula rate plan revenue is required. The following adjustments, however, are required under the formula rate plan. The 2016 formula rate plan evaluation report shows a decrease in formula rate plan revenue of approximately $16.9 million, comprised of a decrease in legacy Entergy Louisiana formula rate plan revenue of $3.5 million, a decrease in legacy Entergy Gulf States Louisiana formula rate plan revenue of $9.7 million, and a decrease in incremental formula rate plan revenue of $3.7 million. Additionally, the formula rate plan evaluation report calls for a decrease of $40.5 million in the MISO cost recovery revenue requirement from the current level of $46.8 million to $6.3 million. Rates reflecting these adjustments were implemented with the first billing cycle of September 2017, subject to refund, pending the review proceedings. Parties have intervened in the proceedings. No procedural schedule has been established. In September 2017 the LPSC issued its report indicating that no changes to Entergy Louisiana’s original formula rate plan evaluation report are required but reserved for several issues, including Entergy Louisiana’s September 2017 update to its formula rate plan evaluation report.
Formula Rate Plan Extension Request
In August 2017, Entergy Louisiana filed a request with the LPSC seeking to extend its formula rate plan for three years (2017-2019) with limited modifications of its terms. Those modifications include: a one-time resetting of base rates to the midpoint of the band at Entergy Louisiana’s authorized return on equity of 9.95% for the 2017 test year; narrowing of the formula rate plan bandwidth from a total of 160 basis points to 80 basis points; and a forward-looking mechanism that would allow Entergy Louisiana to recover certain transmission-related costs contemporaneously with when those projects begin delivering benefits to customers. Entergy Louisiana has requested that the LPSC consider its request on an expedited basis and render a decision by December 2017, in an effort to maintain Entergy Louisiana’s current cycle for implementing rate adjustments, i.e., September 2018, without the need for filing a full base rate case proceeding.
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Entergy Louisiana, LLC and Subsidiaries
Management's Financial Discussion and Analysis
Waterford 3 Replacement Steam Generator Project
See Note 2 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for discussion of the Waterford 3 replacement steam generator project prudence review proceeding. The refund to customers of approximately $71 million as a result of the settlement approved by the LPSC was made in January 2017. Following a review by the parties, an unopposed joint report of proceedings was filed by the LPSC staff and Entergy Louisiana in May 2017. In May 2017 the LPSC accepted the joint report of proceedings resolving the matter.
Deactivation or Retirement Decisions for Entergy Louisiana Plants
As a term of the LPSC-approved settlement authorizing the purchase of Power Blocks 3 and 4 of the Union Power Station, Entergy Louisiana agreed to make a filing with the LPSC to review its decisions to deactivate Ninemile 3 and Willow Glen 2 and 4 and its decision to retire Little Gypsy 1. In January 2016, Entergy Louisiana made its compliance filing with the LPSC. Entergy Louisiana, LPSC staff, and intervenors participated in a technical conference in March 2016 where Entergy Louisiana presented information on its deactivation/retirement decisions for these four units in addition to information on the current deactivation decisions for the ten-year planning horizon. Parties have requested further proceedings on the prudence of the decision to deactivate Willow Glen 2 and 4. No party contests the prudence of the decision to deactivate Willow Glen 2 and 4 or suggests reactivation of these units; however, issues have been raised related to Entergy Louisiana’s decision to give up its transmission service rights in MISO for Willow Glen 2 and 4 rather than placing the units into suspended status for the three-year term permitted by MISO. An evidentiary hearing was held in August 2017 and post-hearing briefs were submitted in October 2017. A decision is expected in 2018.
Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) Filing
As discussed in the Form 10-K, in November 2016, Entergy Louisiana filed an application seeking a finding from the LPSC that Entergy Louisiana’s deployment of advanced electric and gas metering infrastructure is in the public interest. The parties reached an uncontested stipulation permitting implementation of Entergy Louisiana’s proposed AMI system, with modifications to the proposed customer charge. The stipulation also confirmed that Entergy Louisiana shall continue to include in rate base the remaining book value of the existing electric meters and also to depreciate those assets using current depreciation rates. In July 2017 the LPSC approved the stipulation.
Retail Rates - Gas
2016 Rate Stabilization Plan Filing
In January 2017, Entergy Louisiana filed with the LPSC its gas rate stabilization plan for the test year ended September 30, 2016. The filing of the evaluation report for test year 2016 reflected an earned return on common equity of 6.37%. As part of the original filing, pursuant to the extraordinary cost provision of the rate stabilization plan, Entergy Louisiana sought to recover approximately $1.5 million in deferred operation and maintenance expenses incurred to restore service and repair damage resulting from flooding and widespread rainfall in southeast Louisiana that occurred in August 2016. Entergy Louisiana requested to recover the prudently incurred August 2016 storm restoration costs over ten years, outside of the rate stabilization plan sharing provisions. As a result, Entergy Louisiana’s filing sought an annual increase in revenue of $1.4 million. Following review of the filing, except for the proposed extraordinary cost recovery, the LPSC staff confirmed Entergy Louisiana’s filing was consistent with the principles and requirements of the rate stabilization plan. The extraordinary cost recovery request associated with the 2016 flood-related deferred operation and maintenance expenses incurred for gas operations was removed from the rate stabilization plan pending LPSC consideration in a separate docket. In April 2017 the LPSC approved a joint report of proceedings and Entergy Louisiana submitted a revised evaluation report reflecting a $1.2 million annual increase in revenue with rates implemented with the first billing cycle of May 2017.
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Management's Financial Discussion and Analysis
In connection with the joint report of proceedings accepted by the LPSC, in May 2017, Entergy Louisiana filed an application to initiate a separate proceeding to recover the deferred operation and maintenance expenses of $1.4 million incurred to restore service and repair damage resulting from flooding and widespread rainfall in southeast Louisiana that occurred in August 2016 through the extraordinary cost provision of the gas rate stabilization plan. The LPSC staff submitted its direct testimony in the proceeding recommending recovery of $0.9 million. The procedural schedule includes a hearing in February 2018.
Fuel and purchased power cost recovery
As discussed in the Form 10-K, in June 2016 the LPSC staff provided notice of audits of Entergy Louisiana’s fuel adjustment clause filings and purchased gas adjustment clause filings. The audit included a review of the reasonableness of charges flowed through Entergy Louisiana’s fuel adjustment clause for the period from 2014 through 2015 and charges flowed through Entergy Louisiana’s purchased gas adjustment clause for the period from 2012 through 2015. Discovery commenced in March 2017.
As discussed in the Form 10-K, in April 2010 the LPSC authorized its staff to initiate an audit of Entergy Louisiana’s fuel adjustment clause filings. The audit included a review of the reasonableness of the charges flowed through the fuel adjustment clause by Entergy Louisiana for the period from 2005 through 2009. In December 2016 the LPSC opened a new docket in order to resolve the issue regarding the proper methodology for the recovery of nuclear dry fuel storage costs. In October 2017 the LPSC approved the continued recovery of the nuclear dry fuel storage costs through the fuel adjustment clause, resolving the open issue in the audit.
Industrial and Commercial Customers
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS –
Industrial and Commercial Customers
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of industrial and commercial customers.
Federal Regulation
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS –
Federal Regulation
”
in the Form 10-K for a discussion of federal regulation.
Nuclear Matters
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS -
Nuclear Matters
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of nuclear matters. The following is an update to that discussion.
River Bend’s operating license is currently due to expire in August 2025. In May 2017, Entergy Louisiana filed an application with the NRC for an extension of River Bend’s operating license to 2045. In October 2017 an intervenor filed with the NRC a petition to intervene and request for a hearing on the River Bend license renewal application. As provided by NRC procedure, a panel of the Atomic Safety and Licensing Board has been designated to determine whether the intervenor’s three proposed contentions, or allegations of errors or omissions in the license renewal application, are admissible and, if so, to rule on any admitted contentions.
Environmental Risks
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS -
Environmental Risks
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of environmental risks.
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Entergy Louisiana, LLC and Subsidiaries
Management's Financial Discussion and Analysis
Critical Accounting Estimates
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS -
Critical Accounting Estimates
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of the estimates and judgments necessary in Entergy Louisiana’s accounting for nuclear decommissioning costs, utility regulatory accounting, unbilled revenue, impairment of long-lived assets and trust fund investments, taxation and uncertain tax positions, qualified pension and other postretirement benefits, and other contingencies.
New Accounting Pronouncements
See “
New Accounting Pronouncements
” section of Entergy Corporation and Subsidiaries Management’s Financial Discussion and Analysis for further discussion.
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ENTERGY LOUISIANA, LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENTS
For the Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 and 2016
(Unaudited)
Three Months Ended
Nine Months Ended
2017
2016
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
(In Thousands)
OPERATING REVENUES
Electric
$1,280,475
$1,240,217
$3,216,677
$3,166,380
Natural gas
10,019
9,235
38,034
37,251
TOTAL
1,290,494
1,249,452
3,254,711
3,203,631
OPERATING EXPENSES
Operation and Maintenance:
Fuel, fuel-related expenses, and gas purchased for resale
301,584
261,979
635,684
616,402
Purchased power
273,325
261,212
795,825
677,309
Nuclear refueling outage expenses
13,616
12,894
38,565
38,648
Other operation and maintenance
238,249
229,717
704,696
668,738
Decommissioning
12,444
11,812
36,850
34,978
Taxes other than income taxes
45,059
38,129
135,418
124,857
Depreciation and amortization
117,923
114,251
349,660
336,294
Other regulatory charges (credits) - net
(1,795
)
6,507
(78,503
)
18,084
TOTAL
1,000,405
936,501
2,618,195
2,515,310
OPERATING INCOME
290,089
312,951
636,516
688,321
OTHER INCOME
Allowance for equity funds used during construction
13,393
6,735
34,492
18,479
Interest and investment income
42,662
38,731
124,411
116,398
Miscellaneous - net
(2,957
)
(4,429
)
(8,631
)
(10,044
)
TOTAL
53,098
41,037
150,272
124,833
INTEREST EXPENSE
Interest expense
69,518
68,396
205,316
204,259
Allowance for borrowed funds used during construction
(6,713
)
(3,455
)
(17,428
)
(9,735
)
TOTAL
62,805
64,941
187,888
194,524
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES
280,382
289,047
598,900
618,630
Income taxes
94,098
99,541
193,759
64,193
NET INCOME
$186,284
$189,506
$405,141
$554,437
See Notes to Financial Statements.
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ENTERGY LOUISIANA, LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
For the Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 and 2016
(Unaudited)
Three Months Ended
Nine Months Ended
2017
2016
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
(In Thousands)
Net Income
$186,284
$189,506
$405,141
$554,437
Other comprehensive loss
Pension and other postretirement liabilities (net of tax benefit of $232, $145, $756, and $404)
(370
)
(232
)
(1,050
)
(725
)
Other comprehensive loss
(370
)
(232
)
(1,050
)
(725
)
Comprehensive Income
$185,914
$189,274
$404,091
$553,712
See Notes to Financial Statements.
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ENTERGY LOUISIANA, LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 and 2016
(Unaudited)
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net income
$405,141
$554,437
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash flow provided by operating activities:
Depreciation, amortization, and decommissioning, including nuclear fuel amortization
458,963
462,007
Deferred income taxes, investment tax credits, and non-current taxes accrued
303,397
155,996
Changes in working capital:
Receivables
(92,610
)
(159,517
)
Fuel inventory
7,643
(1,578
)
Accounts payable
31,865
(18,420
)
Prepaid taxes and taxes accrued
97,138
(55,780
)
Interest accrued
9,149
7,531
Deferred fuel costs
(37,753
)
(6,091
)
Other working capital accounts
(49,266
)
(2,503
)
Changes in provisions for estimated losses
(6,331
)
1,658
Changes in other regulatory assets
60,014
73,920
Changes in other regulatory liabilities
(72,060
)
30,847
Changes in pension and other postretirement liabilities
(70,489
)
(63,735
)
Other
(117,625
)
(100,827
)
Net cash flow provided by operating activities
927,176
877,945
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Construction expenditures
(1,177,121
)
(675,248
)
Allowance for equity funds used during construction
34,492
18,479
Payment for purchase of plant
—
(474,670
)
Nuclear fuel purchases
(159,637
)
(49,219
)
Proceeds from the sale of nuclear fuel
28,884
64,498
Receipts from storm reserve escrow account
8,836
—
Payments to storm reserve escrow account
(1,422
)
(823
)
Changes to securitization account
(6,538
)
(6,649
)
Proceeds from nuclear decommissioning trust fund sales
176,056
178,183
Investment in nuclear decommissioning trust funds
(204,500
)
(206,976
)
Changes in money pool receivable - net
(50,396
)
(3,274
)
Insurance proceeds
5,305
—
Litigation proceeds for reimbursement of spent nuclear fuel storage costs
—
17,274
Changes in other investments - net
(33,324
)
—
Net cash flow used in investing activities
(1,379,365
)
(1,138,425
)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Proceeds from the issuance of long-term debt
646,850
1,389,315
Retirement of long-term debt
(296,359
)
(831,632
)
Changes in credit borrowings - net
36,762
(18,385
)
Distributions paid:
Common equity
(91,250
)
(215,000
)
Other
(2,141
)
(3,841
)
Net cash flow provided by financing activities
293,862
320,457
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
(158,327
)
59,977
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
213,850
35,102
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$55,523
$95,079
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
Cash paid (received) during the period for:
Interest - net of amount capitalized
$189,896
$251,196
Income taxes
($116,937
)
$62,676
See Notes to Financial Statements.
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ENTERGY LOUISIANA, LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
ASSETS
September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
CURRENT ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents:
Cash
$10,143
$49,972
Temporary cash investments
45,380
163,878
Total cash and cash equivalents
55,523
213,850
Accounts receivable:
Customer
288,237
213,517
Allowance for doubtful accounts
(7,677
)
(6,277
)
Associated companies
190,048
155,794
Other
58,933
54,186
Accrued unbilled revenues
174,379
159,176
Total accounts receivable
703,920
576,396
Fuel inventory
43,095
50,738
Materials and supplies - at average cost
297,545
294,421
Deferred nuclear refueling outage costs
83,207
22,535
Prepaid taxes
12,966
110,104
Prepayments and other
85,303
41,687
TOTAL
1,281,559
1,309,731
OTHER PROPERTY AND INVESTMENTS
Investment in affiliate preferred membership interests
1,390,587
1,390,587
Decommissioning trust funds
1,260,022
1,140,707
Storm reserve escrow account
284,071
291,485
Non-utility property - at cost (less accumulated depreciation)
236,802
217,494
Other
18,837
28,844
TOTAL
3,190,319
3,069,117
UTILITY PLANT
Electric
19,237,157
18,827,532
Natural gas
182,704
172,816
Construction work in progress
1,225,066
670,201
Nuclear fuel
339,749
249,807
TOTAL UTILITY PLANT
20,984,676
19,920,356
Less - accumulated depreciation and amortization
8,622,235
8,420,596
UTILITY PLANT - NET
12,362,441
11,499,760
DEFERRED DEBITS AND OTHER ASSETS
Regulatory assets:
Regulatory asset for income taxes - net
480,257
470,480
Other regulatory assets (includes securitization property of $76,520 as of September 30, 2017 and $92,951 as of December 31, 2016)
1,098,267
1,168,058
Deferred fuel costs
168,122
168,122
Other
17,374
16,003
TOTAL
1,764,020
1,822,663
TOTAL ASSETS
$18,598,339
$17,701,271
See Notes to Financial Statements.
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ENTERGY LOUISIANA, LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Currently maturing long-term debt
$675,002
$200,198
Short-term borrowings
40,555
3,794
Accounts payable:
Associated companies
85,920
82,106
Other
347,338
358,741
Customer deposits
149,274
148,601
Interest accrued
84,747
75,598
Deferred fuel costs
10,458
48,211
Other
88,525
80,013
TOTAL
1,481,819
997,262
NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES
Accumulated deferred income taxes and taxes accrued
2,998,156
2,691,118
Accumulated deferred investment tax credits
123,088
126,741
Other regulatory liabilities
808,914
880,974
Decommissioning
1,125,732
1,082,685
Accumulated provisions
304,441
310,772
Pension and other postretirement liabilities
709,396
780,278
Long-term debt (includes securitization bonds of $89,430 as of September 30, 2017 and $99,217 as of December 31, 2016)
5,492,494
5,612,593
Other
159,711
137,039
TOTAL
11,721,932
11,622,200
Commitments and Contingencies
EQUITY
Member's equity
5,444,080
5,130,251
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
(49,492
)
(48,442
)
TOTAL
5,394,588
5,081,809
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
$18,598,339
$17,701,271
See Notes to Financial Statements.
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ENTERGY LOUISIANA, LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 and 2016
(Unaudited)
Common Equity
Member’s
Equity
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Loss
Total
(In Thousands)
Balance at December 31, 2015
$4,793,724
($56,412
)
$4,737,312
Net income
554,437
—
554,437
Other comprehensive loss
—
(725
)
(725
)
Distributions declared on common equity
(215,000
)
—
(215,000
)
Other
(22
)
—
(22
)
Balance at September 30, 2016
$5,133,139
($57,137
)
$5,076,002
Balance at December 31, 2016
$5,130,251
($48,442
)
$5,081,809
Net income
405,141
—
405,141
Other comprehensive loss
—
(1,050
)
(1,050
)
Distributions declared on common equity
(91,250
)
—
(91,250
)
Other
(62
)
—
(62
)
Balance at September 30, 2017
$5,444,080
($49,492
)
$5,394,588
See Notes to Financial Statements.
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ENTERGY LOUISIANA, LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES
SELECTED OPERATING RESULTS
For the Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 and 2016
(Unaudited)
Three Months Ended
Increase/
Description
2017
2016
(Decrease)
%
(Dollars In Millions)
Electric Operating Revenues:
Residential
$411
$413
($2
)
—
Commercial
285
273
12
4
Industrial
428
361
67
19
Governmental
19
18
1
6
Total retail
1,143
1,065
78
7
Sales for resale:
Associated companies
69
116
(47
)
(41
)
Non-associated companies
23
13
10
77
Other
45
46
(1
)
(2
)
Total
$1,280
$1,240
$40
3
Billed Electric Energy Sales (GWh):
Residential
4,301
4,635
(334
)
(7
)
Commercial
3,228
3,363
(135
)
(4
)
Industrial
7,627
7,345
282
4
Governmental
208
208
—
—
Total retail
15,364
15,551
(187
)
(1
)
Sales for resale:
Associated companies
1,164
2,360
(1,196
)
(51
)
Non-associated companies
616
335
281
84
Total
17,144
18,246
(1,102
)
(6
)
Nine Months Ended
Increase/
Description
2017
2016
(Decrease)
%
(Dollars In Millions)
Electric Operating Revenues:
Residential
$911
$913
($2
)
—
Commercial
716
694
22
3
Industrial
1,147
1,006
141
14
Governmental
51
50
1
2
Total retail
2,825
2,663
162
6
Sales for resale:
Associated companies
204
310
(106
)
(34
)
Non-associated companies
53
37
16
43
Other
135
156
(21
)
(13
)
Total
$3,217
$3,166
$51
2
Billed Electric Energy Sales (GWh):
Residential
10,154
10,608
(454
)
(4
)
Commercial
8,497
8,622
(125
)
(1
)
Industrial
22,272
21,662
610
3
Governmental
595
602
(7
)
(1
)
Total retail
41,518
41,494
24
—
Sales for resale:
Associated companies
3,399
6,104
(2,705
)
(44
)
Non-associated companies
1,280
1,321
(41
)
(3
)
Total
46,197
48,919
(2,722
)
(6
)
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ENTERGY MISSISSIPPI, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
Results of Operations
Net Income
Third Quarter
2017
Compared to
Third Quarter
2016
Net income remained relatively unchanged, decreasing by $0.1 million, because lower net revenue was substantially offset by lower other operation and maintenance expenses.
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017
Compared to
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016
Net income decreased $3.9 million primarily due to lower net revenue and higher depreciation and amortization expenses, partially offset by lower other operation and maintenance expenses and lower interest expense.
Net Revenue
Third Quarter
2017
Compared to
Third Quarter
2016
Net revenue consists of operating revenues net of: 1) fuel, fuel-related expenses, and gas purchased for resale, 2) purchased power expenses, and 3) other regulatory charges (credits). Following is an analysis of the change in net revenue comparing the
third quarter
2017
to the
third quarter
2016
:
Amount
(In Millions)
2016 net revenue
$214.7
Volume/weather
(9.3
)
Retail electric price
(5.0
)
Other
0.9
2017 net revenue
$201.3
The volume/weather variance is primarily due to the effect of less favorable weather on residential and commercial sales, partially offset by an increase in residential and commercial usage resulting from a 1% increase in the average number of residential and commercial customers.
The retail electric price variance is primarily due to lower storm damage rider revenues due to resetting the storm damage provision to zero beginning with the November 2016 billing cycle. Entergy Mississippi resumed billing the storm damage rider effective with the September 2017 billing cycle. The decrease was partially offset by an increase in the energy efficiency rider. See Note 2 to the financial statements herein and in the Form 10-K for further discussion on the storm damage rider.
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Entergy Mississippi, Inc.
Management's Financial Discussion and Analysis
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017
Compared to
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016
Net revenue consists of operating revenues net of: 1) fuel, fuel-related expenses, and gas purchased for resale, 2) purchased power expenses, and 3) other regulatory credits. Following is an analysis of the change in net revenue comparing the
nine months ended September 30, 2017
to the
nine months ended September 30, 2016
:
Amount
(In Millions)
2016 net revenue
$541.2
Volume/weather
(19.6
)
Retail electric price
6.6
Other
1.4
2017 net revenue
$529.6
The volume/weather variance is primarily due to the effect of less favorable weather on residential and commercial sales, partially offset by an increase of 40 GWh, or 2%, in industrial usage. The increase in industrial usage is primarily due to expansion projects in the pulp and paper industry, an increase in usage by the mid to small industrial sector, and new customers in the wood products industry, partially offset by a decrease in demand for existing customers.
The retail electric price variance is primarily due to a $19.4 million net annual increase in rates, as approved by the MPSC, effective with the first billing cycle of July 2016 and an increase in the energy efficiency rider. The increase was partially offset by lower storm damage rider revenues due to resetting the storm damage provision to zero beginning with the November 2016 billing cycle. Entergy Mississippi resumed billing the storm damage rider effective with the September 2017 billing cycle. See Note 2 to the financial statements herein and in the Form 10-K for further discussion of the formula rate plan and the storm damage rider.
Other Income Statement Variances
Third Quarter
2017
Compared to
Third Quarter
2016
Other operation and maintenance expenses decreased primarily due to
a decrease of $6.1 million in fossil-fueled generation expenses
primarily due to lower long-term service agreement costs and
a decrease of $4.8 million in storm damage provisions. See Note 2 to the financial statements herein and in the Form 10-K for a discussion on storm cost recovery.
The decrease was partially offset by an increase of $1.6 million in energy efficiency costs.
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017
Compared to
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016
Other operation and maintenance expenses decreased primarily due to:
•
a decrease of $6.6 million in storm damage provisions. See Note 2 to the financial statements herein and in the Form 10-K for a discussion on storm cost recovery; and
•
a decrease of $3.6 million in fossil-fueled generation expenses
primarily due to lower long-term service agreement costs, partially offset by a higher scope of work done in 2017 as compared to the same period in 2016.
The decrease was partially offset by an increase of $3.5 million in energy efficiency costs.
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Management's Financial Discussion and Analysis
Depreciation and amortization expenses increased primarily due to additions to plants in service.
Interest expense decreased primarily due to the refinancing at lower interest rates of certain first mortgage bonds in 2016 and the retirement, at maturity, of $125 million of 3.25% Series first mortgage bonds in June 2016. See Note 5 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for details of long-term debt.
Income Taxes
The effective income tax rate was
37.8%
for the
third quarter
2017
. The difference in the effective income tax rate for the
third quarter
2017
versus the federal statutory rate of 35% was primarily due to state income taxes, partially offset by book and tax differences related to the allowance for equity funds used during construction.
The effective income tax rate was
38.4%
for the
nine months ended September 30, 2017
. The difference in the effective income tax rate for the
nine months ended September 30, 2017
versus the federal statutory rate of 35% was primarily due to state income taxes, partially offset by book and tax differences related to the allowance for equity funds used during construction.
The effective income tax rates were
38.6%
for the
third quarter
2016
and
36.9%
for the
nine months ended September 30, 2016
. The difference in the effective income tax rates for the
third quarter
2016
and the
nine months ended September 30, 2016
versus the federal statutory rate of 35% were primarily due to state income taxes and certain book and tax differences related to utility plant items.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Cash Flow
Cash flows for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
and
2016
were as follows:
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
$76,834
$145,605
Cash flow provided by (used in):
Operating activities
129,314
141,960
Investing activities
(300,966
)
(244,814
)
Financing activities
94,867
265,513
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
(76,785
)
162,659
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$49
$308,264
Operating Activities
Net cash flow provided by operating activities decreased $12.6 million for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
compared to the
nine months ended
September 30, 2016
primarily due to the timing of recovery of fuel and purchased power costs in 2017 as compared to the same period in 2016 and the timing of payments to vendors. The decrease was partially offset by income tax refunds of $15.1 million in 2017 compared to income tax payments of $3.9 million in 2016. Entergy Mississippi received state income tax refunds of $15.1 million in 2017 in accordance with an intercompany income tax allocation agreement. The income tax refunds in 2017 resulted from the carryback of net operating losses.
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Entergy Mississippi, Inc.
Management's Financial Discussion and Analysis
Investing Activities
Net cash flow used in investing activities increased $56.2 million for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
compared to the
nine months ended
September 30, 2016
primarily due to:
•
an increase of $53.1 million in transmission construction expenditures primarily due to a higher scope of work performed in 2017 as compared to the same period in 2016;
•
an increase of $18.5 million in fossil-fueled generation construction expenditures primarily due to a higher scope of work performed in 2017 as compared to the same period in 2016;
•
an increase of $13.1 million in storm spending in 2017 as compared to the same period in 2016; and
•
an increase of $9.1 million in distribution construction expenditures primarily due to a higher scope of non-storm related work performed in 2017 as compared to the same period in 2016.
The increase was partially offset by money pool activity.
Decreases in Entergy Mississippi’s receivable from the money pool are a source of cash flow, and Entergy Mississippi’s receivable from the money pool decreased $10.6 million for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
compared to increasing $25 million for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2016
. The money pool is an inter-company borrowing arrangement designed to reduce the Utility subsidiaries’ need for external short-term borrowings.
Financing Activities
Net cash flow provided by financing activities decreased $170.6 million for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
compared to the
nine months ended
September 30, 2016
primarily due to the net issuance of $291.6 million of long-term debt in 2016, partially offset by money pool activity and a decrease of $13.5 million in common stock dividends paid in 2017 as compared to the same period in 2016. The decrease in dividends paid was primarily because of lower operating cash flow and higher capital expenditures, each discussed above. See Note 5 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for details of long-term debt.
Increases in Entergy Mississippi’s payable to the money pool are a source of cash flow, and Entergy Mississippi’s payable to the money pool increased by $106.2 million for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
.
Capital Structure
Entergy Mississippi’s capitalization is balanced between equity and debt, as shown in the following table.
September 30, 2017
December 31, 2016
Debt to capital
48.4
%
50.2
%
Effect of subtracting cash
—
%
(1.8
%)
Net debt to net capital
48.4
%
48.4
%
Net debt consists of debt less cash and cash equivalents. Debt consists of short-term borrowings, capital lease obligations, and long-term debt, including the currently maturing portion. Capital consists of debt, preferred stock without sinking fund, and common equity. Net capital consists of capital less cash and cash equivalents. Entergy Mississippi uses the debt to capital ratio in analyzing its financial condition and believes it provides useful information to its investors and creditors in evaluating Entergy Mississippi’s financial condition. Entergy Mississippi uses the net debt to net capital ratio in analyzing its financial condition and believes it provides useful information to its investors and creditors in evaluating Entergy Mississippi’s financial condition because net debt indicates Entergy Mississippi’s outstanding debt position that could not be readily satisfied by cash and cash equivalents on hand.
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Entergy Mississippi, Inc.
Management's Financial Discussion and Analysis
Uses and Sources of Capital
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS -
Liquidity and Capital Resources
”
in the Form 10-K for a discussion of Entergy Mississippi’s uses and sources of capital. Following are updates to the information provided in the Form 10-K.
Entergy Mississippi is developing its capital investment plan for 2018 through 2020 and currently anticipates making $1.3 billion in capital investments during that period. The preliminary estimate includes amounts associated with specific investments such as transmission projects to enhance reliability, reduce congestion, and enable economic growth; distribution spending to enhance reliability and improve service to customers, including initial investment to support advanced metering; resource planning, including potential generation projects; system improvements; and other investments. Estimated capital expenditures are subject to periodic review and modification and may vary based on the ongoing effects of regulatory constraints and requirements, environmental compliance, business opportunities, market volatility, economic trends, business restructuring, changes in project plans, and the ability to access capital.
Entergy Mississippi’s receivables from or (payables to) the money pool were as follows:
September 30, 2017
December 31, 2016
September 30, 2016
December 31, 2015
(In Thousands)
($106,180)
$10,595
$50,916
$25,930
See Note 4 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for a description of the money pool.
Entergy Mississippi has four separate credit facilities in the aggregate amount of $102.5 million scheduled to expire in May 2018. No borrowings were outstanding under the credit facilities as of
September 30, 2017
. In addition, Entergy Mississippi is a party to an uncommitted letter of credit facility as a means to post collateral to support its obligations to MISO. As of
September 30, 2017
, a $12.8 million letter of credit was outstanding under Entergy Mississippi’s uncommitted letter of credit facility. See Note 4 to the financial statements herein for additional discussion of the credit facilities.
State and Local Rate Regulation and Fuel-Cost Recovery
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS -
State and Local Rate Regulation and Fuel-Cost Recovery
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of the formula rate plan and fuel and purchased power cost recovery. The following are updates to that discussion.
Formula Rate Plan
In March 2017, Entergy Mississippi submitted its formula rate plan 2017 test year filing and 2016 look-back filing showing Entergy Mississippi’s earned return for the historical 2016 calendar year and projected earned return for the 2017 calendar year to be within the formula rate plan bandwidth, resulting in no change in rates. In June 2017, Entergy Mississippi and the Mississippi Public Utilities Staff entered into a stipulation that confirmed that Entergy Mississippi’s earned returns for both the 2016 look-back filing and 2017 test year were within the respective formula rate plan bandwidths. In June 2017 the MPSC approved the stipulation, which resulted in no change in rates.
Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) Filing
As discussed in the Form 10-K, in November 2016, Entergy Mississippi filed an application seeking a finding from the MPSC that Entergy Mississippi’s deployment of advanced metering infrastructure is in the public interest. In May 2017 the Mississippi Public Utilities Staff and Entergy Mississippi entered into and filed a joint stipulation supporting Entergy Mississippi’s filing, and the MPSC issued an order approving the filing without any material
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Entergy Mississippi, Inc.
Management's Financial Discussion and Analysis
changes, finding that Entergy Mississippi’s deployment of AMI is in the public interest and granting a certificate of public convenience and necessity. The MPSC order also confirmed that Entergy Mississippi shall continue to include in rate base the remaining book value of existing meters that will be retired as part of the AMI deployment and also to depreciate those assets using current depreciation rates.
Mississippi Attorney General Complaint
As discussed in the Form 10-K, the Mississippi attorney general filed a complaint in state court in December 2008 against Entergy Corporation, Entergy Mississippi, Entergy Services, and Entergy Power alleging, among other things, violations of Mississippi statutes, fraud, breach of good faith and fair dealing, and requesting an accounting and restitution. The complaint is wide ranging and relates to tariffs and procedures under which Entergy Mississippi purchases power not generated in Mississippi to meet electricity demand. The defendants have denied the allegations. In June 2017 the District Court issued a case management order setting a trial date in November 2018. Discovery is currently in progress.
Storm Cost Recovery
See the Form 10-K for discussion of Entergy Mississippi’s storm damage provision. As of July 31, 2017, the balance in Entergy Mississippi’s accumulated storm damage provision was less than $10 million, therefore Entergy Mississippi resumed billing the monthly storm damage provision effective with September 2017 bills.
Federal Regulation
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS –
Federal Regulation
”
in the Form 10-K for a discussion of federal regulation.
Nuclear Matters
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS -
Nuclear Matters
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of nuclear matters.
Environmental Risks
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS –
Environmental Risks
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of environmental risks.
Critical Accounting Estimates
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS -
Critical Accounting Estimates
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of the estimates and judgments necessary in Entergy Mississippi’s accounting for utility regulatory accounting, unbilled revenue, impairment of long-lived assets and trust fund investments, taxation and uncertain tax positions, qualified pension and other postretirement benefits, and other contingencies.
New Accounting Pronouncements
See “
New Accounting Pronouncements
” section of Entergy Corporation and Subsidiaries Management’s Financial Discussion and Analysis for further discussion.
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ENTERGY MISSISSIPPI, INC.
INCOME STATEMENTS
For the Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 and 2016
(Unaudited)
Three Months Ended
Nine Months Ended
2017
2016
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
(In Thousands)
OPERATING REVENUES
Electric
$349,197
$309,739
$898,852
$820,923
OPERATING EXPENSES
Operation and Maintenance:
Fuel, fuel-related expenses, and gas purchased for resale
61,681
3,444
146,869
64,790
Purchased power
90,086
87,070
236,409
216,814
Other operation and maintenance
57,491
67,155
172,199
178,809
Taxes other than income taxes
23,568
24,837
71,518
68,821
Depreciation and amortization
36,176
34,438
106,935
101,746
Other regulatory charges (credits) - net
(3,840
)
4,483
(13,983
)
(1,832
)
TOTAL
265,162
221,427
719,947
629,148
OPERATING INCOME
84,035
88,312
178,905
191,775
OTHER INCOME
Allowance for equity funds used during construction
2,566
1,441
6,741
4,072
Interest and investment income
—
129
33
490
Miscellaneous - net
(54
)
(849
)
(1,032
)
(2,604
)
TOTAL
2,512
721
5,742
1,958
INTEREST EXPENSE
Interest expense
12,713
13,866
37,953
43,866
Allowance for borrowed funds used during construction
(1,048
)
(741
)
(2,681
)
(2,099
)
TOTAL
11,665
13,125
35,272
41,767
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES
74,882
75,908
149,375
151,966
Income taxes
28,337
29,296
57,369
56,042
NET INCOME
46,545
46,612
92,006
95,924
Preferred dividend requirements and other
238
707
715
2,121
EARNINGS APPLICABLE TO COMMON STOCK
$46,307
$45,905
$91,291
$93,803
See Notes to Financial Statements.
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ENTERGY MISSISSIPPI, INC.
STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 and 2016
(Unaudited)
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net income
$92,006
$95,924
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash flow provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization
106,935
101,746
Deferred income taxes, investment tax credits, and non-current taxes accrued
65,204
43,201
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Receivables
(31,085
)
(39,253
)
Fuel inventory
8,059
412
Accounts payable
(2,644
)
25,200
Taxes accrued
(5,815
)
(765
)
Interest accrued
(2,366
)
(2,349
)
Deferred fuel costs
(27,344
)
(79,671
)
Other working capital accounts
(279
)
(1,910
)
Provisions for estimated losses
(10,274
)
5,221
Other regulatory assets
(33,323
)
18,851
Pension and other postretirement liabilities
(18,863
)
(18,871
)
Other assets and liabilities
(10,897
)
(5,776
)
Net cash flow provided by operating activities
129,314
141,960
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Construction expenditures
(313,910
)
(223,643
)
Allowance for equity funds used during construction
6,741
4,072
Changes in money pool receivable - net
10,595
(24,986
)
Change in other investments
(3,185
)
—
Other
(1,207
)
(257
)
Net cash flow used in investing activities
(300,966
)
(244,814
)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Proceeds from the issuance of long-term debt
—
624,034
Retirement of long-term debt
—
(332,400
)
Change in money pool payable - net
106,180
—
Dividends paid:
Common stock
(10,500
)
(24,000
)
Preferred stock
(715
)
(2,121
)
Other
(98
)
—
Net cash flow provided by financing activities
94,867
265,513
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
(76,785
)
162,659
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
76,834
145,605
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$49
$308,264
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
Cash paid (received) during the period for:
Interest - net of amount capitalized
$38,549
$44,209
Income taxes
($15,087
)
$3,878
See Notes to Financial Statements.
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ENTERGY MISSISSIPPI, INC.
BALANCE SHEETS
ASSETS
September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
CURRENT ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents:
Cash
$42
$16
Temporary cash investments
7
76,818
Total cash and cash equivalents
49
76,834
Accounts receivable:
Customer
81,898
51,218
Allowance for doubtful accounts
(669
)
(549
)
Associated companies
34,417
45,973
Other
8,835
12,006
Accrued unbilled revenues
55,983
51,327
Total accounts receivable
180,464
159,975
Deferred fuel costs
34,301
6,957
Fuel inventory - at average cost
42,813
50,872
Materials and supplies - at average cost
44,100
41,146
Prepayments and other
14,555
8,873
TOTAL
316,282
344,657
OTHER PROPERTY AND INVESTMENTS
Non-utility property - at cost (less accumulated depreciation)
4,596
4,608
Escrow accounts
31,894
31,783
TOTAL
36,490
36,391
UTILITY PLANT
Electric
4,454,890
4,321,214
Property under capital lease
502
1,590
Construction work in progress
234,116
118,182
TOTAL UTILITY PLANT
4,689,508
4,440,986
Less - accumulated depreciation and amortization
1,651,270
1,602,711
UTILITY PLANT - NET
3,038,238
2,838,275
DEFERRED DEBITS AND OTHER ASSETS
Regulatory assets:
Regulatory asset for income taxes - net
40,367
38,284
Other regulatory assets
373,453
342,213
Other
3,710
2,320
TOTAL
417,530
382,817
TOTAL ASSETS
$3,808,540
$3,602,140
See Notes to Financial Statements.
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ENTERGY MISSISSIPPI, INC.
BALANCE SHEETS
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Accounts payable:
Associated companies
$147,147
$43,647
Other
75,915
80,227
Customer deposits
83,682
84,112
Taxes accrued
58,225
64,040
Interest accrued
19,287
21,653
Other
13,589
9,554
TOTAL
397,845
303,233
NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES
Accumulated deferred income taxes and taxes accrued
926,123
861,331
Accumulated deferred investment tax credits
8,811
8,667
Asset retirement cost liabilities
9,092
8,722
Accumulated provisions
44,166
54,440
Pension and other postretirement liabilities
90,696
109,551
Long-term debt
1,121,606
1,120,916
Other
14,238
20,108
TOTAL
2,214,732
2,183,735
Commitments and Contingencies
Preferred stock without sinking fund
20,381
20,381
COMMON EQUITY
Common stock, no par value, authorized 12,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding 8,666,357 shares in 2017 and 2016
199,326
199,326
Capital stock expense and other
167
167
Retained earnings
976,089
895,298
TOTAL
1,175,582
1,094,791
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
$3,808,540
$3,602,140
See Notes to Financial Statements.
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ENTERGY MISSISSIPPI, INC.
STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN COMMON EQUITY
For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 and 2016
(Unaudited)
Common Equity
Common
Stock
Capital Stock
Expense and
Other
Retained
Earnings
Total
(In Thousands)
Balance at December 31, 2015
$199,326
($690
)
$813,414
$1,012,050
Net income
—
—
95,924
95,924
Common stock dividends
—
—
(24,000
)
(24,000
)
Preferred stock dividends
—
—
(2,121
)
(2,121
)
Balance at September 30, 2016
$199,326
($690
)
$883,217
$1,081,853
Balance at December 31, 2016
$199,326
$167
$895,298
$1,094,791
Net income
—
—
92,006
92,006
Common stock dividends
—
—
(10,500
)
(10,500
)
Preferred stock dividends
—
—
(715
)
(715
)
Balance at September 30, 2017
$199,326
$167
$976,089
$1,175,582
See Notes to Financial Statements.
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ENTERGY MISSISSIPPI, INC.
SELECTED OPERATING RESULTS
For the Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 and 2016
(Unaudited)
Three Months Ended
Increase/
Description
2017
2016
(Decrease)
%
(Dollars In Millions)
Electric Operating Revenues:
Residential
$158
$141
$17
12
Commercial
121
102
19
19
Industrial
41
34
7
21
Governmental
11
10
1
10
Total retail
331
287
44
15
Sales for resale:
Non-associated companies
4
11
(7
)
(64
)
Other
14
12
2
17
Total
$349
$310
$39
13
Billed Electric Energy Sales (GWh):
Residential
1,747
1,955
(208
)
(11
)
Commercial
1,407
1,477
(70
)
(5
)
Industrial
665
693
(28
)
(4
)
Governmental
118
128
(10
)
(8
)
Total retail
3,937
4,253
(316
)
(7
)
Sales for resale:
Non-associated companies
251
384
(133
)
(35
)
Total
4,188
4,637
(449
)
(10
)
Nine Months Ended
Increase/
Description
2017
2016
(Decrease)
%
(Dollars In Millions)
Electric Operating Revenues:
Residential
$380
$345
$35
10
Commercial
314
275
39
14
Industrial
115
97
18
19
Governmental
30
29
1
3
Total retail
839
746
93
12
Sales for resale:
Non-associated companies
16
21
(5
)
(24
)
Other
44
54
(10
)
(19
)
Total
$899
$821
$78
10
Billed Electric Energy Sales (GWh):
Residential
4,072
4,325
(253
)
(6
)
Commercial
3,611
3,682
(71
)
(2
)
Industrial
1,869
1,829
40
2
Governmental
317
328
(11
)
(3
)
Total retail
9,869
10,164
(295
)
(3
)
Sales for resale:
Non-associated companies
744
759
(15
)
(2
)
Total
10,613
10,923
(310
)
(3
)
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Table of Contents
ENTERGY NEW ORLEANS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
Results of Operations
Net Income
Third Quarter 2017 Compared to Third Quarter 2016
Net income decreased $5.2 million primarily due to lower net revenue and higher taxes other than income taxes.
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 Compared to Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016
Net income decreased $2.3 million primarily due to lower net revenue and higher taxes other than income taxes, partially offset by lower other operation and maintenance expenses and a lower effective income tax rate.
Net Revenue
Third Quarter 2017 Compared to Third Quarter 2016
Net revenue consists of operating revenues net of: 1) fuel, fuel-related expenses, and gas purchased for resale, 2) purchased power expenses, and 3) other regulatory charges. Following is an analysis of the changes in net revenue comparing the
third
quarter 2017 to the
third
quarter 2016:
Amount
(In Millions)
2016 net revenue
$96.0
Retail electric price
(4.8
)
Volume/weather
(3.3
)
Other
0.4
2017 net revenue
$88.3
The retail electric price variance is primarily due to a decrease in the purchased power and capacity acquisition cost recovery rider primarily due to credits to customers as part of the Entergy New Orleans internal restructuring agreement in principle, effective with the first billing cycle of June 2017. See Note 2 to the financial statements herein and in the Form 10-K for further discussion of the credits associated with Entergy New Orleans’s internal restructuring.
The volume/weather variance is primarily due to the effect of less favorable weather on residential and commercial sales, partially offset by an increase in residential and commercial usage resulting from a 1% increase in the average number of residential and commercial electric customers.
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Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 Compared to Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016
Net revenue consists of operating revenues net of: 1) fuel, fuel-related expenses, and gas purchased for resale, 2) purchased power expenses, and 3) other regulatory charges. Following is an analysis of the changes in net revenue comparing the nine months ended September 30, 2017 to the nine months ended September 30, 2016:
Amount
(In Millions)
2016 net revenue
$244.4
Volume/weather
(6.4
)
Retail electric price
(1.7
)
Other
1.5
2017 net revenue
$237.8
The volume/weather variance is primarily due to the effect of less favorable weather on residential and commercial sales, partially offset by an increase in residential and commercial usage resulting from a 1% increase in the average number of residential and commercial electric customers.
The retail electric price variance is primarily due to a decrease in the purchased power and capacity acquisition cost recovery rider primarily due to credits to customers as part of the Entergy New Orleans internal restructuring agreement in principle, effective with the first billing cycle of June 2017. The decrease was partially offset by an increase in the purchased power and capacity acquisition cost recovery rider, as approved by the City Council, effective with the first billing cycle of March 2016, primarily related to the purchase of Power Block 1 of the Union Power Station in March 2016. See Note 2 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for further discussion of the purchased power and capacity acquisition cost recovery rider and see Note 2 to the financial statements herein and in the Form 10-K for further discussion of the credits associated with Entergy New Orleans’s internal restructuring.
Other Income Statement Variances
Third Quarter 2017 Compared to Third Quarter 2016
Taxes other than income taxes increased primarily due to an increase in ad valorem taxes and higher local franchise taxes. Ad valorem taxes increased primarily due to higher assessments, including the assessment of Arkansas ad valorem taxes on the Union Power Station beginning in 2017. Local franchise taxes increased primarily due to higher electric retail revenues in the third quarter 2017 as compared to the third quarter 2016.
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 Compared to Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016
Other operation and maintenance expenses decreased primarily due to:
•
a decrease of $2.9 million in fossil-fueled generation expenses primarily due to the deactivation of Michoud Units 2 and 3 effective May 2016 and higher outages costs at Power Block 1 of the Union Power Station in 2016 as compared to the same period in 2017;
•
a decrease of $2.1 million in loss provisions;
•
a decrease of $1.1 million due to lower write-offs of uncollectible customer accounts; and
•
a decrease of $1 million in energy efficiency costs.
The decrease was partially offset by an increase of $3.2 million in distribution expenses primarily due to higher labor costs, including contract labor, and higher vegetation maintenance.
Taxes other than income taxes increased primarily due to higher local franchise taxes and an increase in ad valorem taxes. Local franchise taxes increased primarily due to higher electric retail revenues in 2017 as compared
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Management's Financial Discussion and Analysis
to the same period in 2016. Ad valorem taxes increased primarily due to higher assessments, including the assessment of Arkansas ad valorem taxes on the Union Power Station beginning in 2017.
Income Taxes
The effective income tax rates were 36.6% for the third quarter 2017 and 36.3% for the nine months ended September 30, 2017. The differences in the effective income tax rates for the third quarter 2017 and the nine months ended June 30, 2017 versus the federal statutory rate of 35% were primarily due to state income taxes and certain book and tax differences related to utility plant items, partially offset by flow-through tax accounting.
The effective income tax rate was 36.5% for the third quarter 2016 and 38.9% for the nine months ended September 30, 2016. The differences in the effective income tax rates for the third quarter 2016 and the nine months ended September 30, 2016 versus the federal statutory rate of 35% were primarily due to state income taxes and certain book and tax differences related to utility plant items, partially offset by flow-through tax accounting.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Cash Flow
Cash flows for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
and
2016
were as follows:
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
$103,068
$88,876
Cash flow provided by (used in):
Operating activities
84,240
92,823
Investing activities
(116,704
)
(290,944
)
Financing activities
(41,722
)
147,134
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
(74,186
)
(50,987
)
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$28,882
$37,889
Operating Activities
Net cash flow provided by operating activities decreased $8.6 million for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
compared to the
nine months ended
September 30, 2016
primarily due to the timing of payments to vendors and lower net revenue in 2017 as compared to the same period in 2016. The decrease was substantially offset by the timing of recovery of fuel and purchased power costs in 2017 as compared to the same period in 2016 and income tax payments of $8.5 million in 2016. Entergy New Orleans made income tax payments of $8.5 million in 2016 primarily due to state income taxes resulting from the effect of net operating loss limitations enacted by the state of Louisiana.
Investing Activities
Net cash flow used in investing activities decreased $174.2 million for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
compared to the
nine months ended
September 30, 2016
primarily due to the purchase of Power Block 1 of the Union Power Station for approximately $237 million in March 2016, partially offset by money pool activity. See Note 14 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for discussion of the Union Power Station purchase.
Increases in Entergy New Orleans’s receivable from the money pool are a use of cash flow, and Entergy New Orleans’s receivable from the money pool increased $32.1 million in 2017 compared to decreasing $9.6 million in
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2016. The money pool is an inter-company borrowing arrangement designed to reduce the Utility subsidiaries’ need for external short-term borrowings.
Financing Activities
Entergy New Orleans’s financing activities used $41.7 million of cash for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
compared to providing $147.1 million of cash for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2016
primarily due to the following activity:
•
the issuance of $110 million of 5.50% Series first mortgage bonds in March 2016;
•
the issuance of $85 million of 4% Series first mortgage bonds in May 2016. Entergy New Orleans used the proceeds to pay, prior to maturity, its $33.271 million of 5.6% Series first mortgage bonds due September 2024 and to pay, prior to maturity, its $37.772 million of 5.65% Series first mortgage bonds due September 2029;
•
a $47.8 million capital contribution received from Entergy Corporation in March 2016 in anticipation of Entergy New Orleans’s purchase of Power Block 1 of the Union Power Station. See Note 14 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for discussion of the Union Power Station purchase; and
•
$36.1 million in common stock dividends paid in 2017 as compared to $14 million in common stock dividends paid in 2016. There were no common stock dividends paid in first quarter 2016 in anticipation of the purchase of Power Block 1 of the Union Power Station in March 2016.
See Note 5 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for more details on long-term debt.
Capital Structure
Entergy New Orleans’s capitalization is balanced between equity and debt, as shown in the following table.
September 30,
2017
December 31,
2016
Debt to capital
49.4
%
50.1
%
Effect of excluding securitization bonds
(4.9
%)
(5.2
%)
Debt to capital, excluding securitization bonds (a)
44.5
%
44.9
%
Effect of subtracting cash
(2.0
%)
(8.0
%)
Net debt to net capital, excluding securitization bonds (a)
42.5
%
36.9
%
(a)
Calculation excludes the securitization bonds, which are non-recourse to Entergy New Orleans.
Net debt consists of debt less cash and cash equivalents. Debt consists of short-term borrowings, long-term debt, including the currently maturing portion, and the long-term payable to Entergy Louisiana. Capital consists of debt, preferred stock without sinking fund, and common equity. Net capital consists of capital less cash and cash equivalents. Entergy New Orleans uses the debt to capital ratios excluding securitization bonds in analyzing its financial condition and believes they provide useful information to its investors and creditors in evaluating Entergy New Orleans’s financial condition because the securitization bonds are non-recourse to Entergy New Orleans, as more fully described in Note 5 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K. Entergy New Orleans also uses the net debt to net capital ratio excluding securitization bonds in analyzing its financial condition and believes it provides useful information to its investors and creditors in evaluating Entergy New Orleans’s financial condition because net debt indicates Entergy New Orleans’s outstanding debt position that could not be readily satisfied by cash and cash equivalents on hand.
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Uses and Sources of Capital
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS -
Liquidity and Capital Resources
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of Entergy New Orleans’s uses and sources of capital. Following are updates to the information provided in the Form 10-K.
Entergy New Orleans is developing its capital investment plan for 2018 through 2020 and currently anticipates making $585 million in capital investments during that period. The estimate includes amounts associated with specific investments such as the New Orleans Power Station discussed below; transmission projects to enhance reliability, reduce congestion, and enable economic growth; distribution spending to enhance reliability and improve service to customers, including initial investment to support advanced metering; system improvements; and other investments. Estimated capital expenditures are subject to periodic review and modification and may vary based on the ongoing effects of regulatory constraints and requirements, environmental compliance, business opportunities, market volatility, economic trends, business restructuring, changes in project plans, and the ability to access capital.
Entergy New Orleans’s receivables from the money pool were as follows:
September 30,
2017
December 31,
2016
September 30,
2016
December 31,
2015
(In Thousands)
$46,282
$14,215
$6,172
$15,794
See Note 4 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for a description of the money pool.
Entergy New Orleans has a credit facility in the amount of $25 million scheduled to expire in November 2018. The credit facility permits the issuance of letters of credit against $10 million of the borrowing capacity of the facility. As of
September 30, 2017
, there were no cash borrowings and a $0.8 million letter of credit was outstanding under the facility. In addition, Entergy New Orleans is a party to an uncommitted letter of credit facility as a means to post collateral to support its obligations to MISO. As of
September 30, 2017
, a $7.1 million letter of credit was outstanding under Entergy New Orleans’s uncommitted letter of credit facility. See Note 4 to the financial statements herein for additional discussion of the credit facilities.
New Orleans Power Station
In June 2016, Entergy New Orleans filed an application with the City Council seeking a public interest determination and authorization to construct the New Orleans Power Station, a 226 MW advanced combustion turbine in New Orleans, Louisiana, at the site of the existing Michoud generating facility, which was retired effective May 31, 2016. In January 2017 several intervenors filed testimony opposing the construction of the New Orleans Power Station on various grounds. In July 2017, Entergy New Orleans submitted a supplemental and amending application to the City Council seeking approval to construct either the originally proposed 226 MW advanced combustion turbine, or alternatively, a 128 MW unit composed of natural gas-fired reciprocating engines and a related cost recovery plan. The application included an updated cost estimate of $232 million for the 226 MW advanced combustion turbine. The cost estimate for the alternative 128 MW unit is $210 million. In addition, the application renewed the commitment to pursue up to 100 MW of renewable resources to serve New Orleans. In August 2017 the City Council established a procedural schedule that provided for a hearing in December 2017 with a City Council decision expected in February 2018. In October 2017 several intervenors filed testimony opposing the New Orleans Power Station or, in one case, supporting a slightly smaller configuration of Entergy New Orleans’s alternative proposal. The commercial operation date is dependent on the alternative selected by the City Council and the receipt of other permits and approvals.
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State and Local Rate Regulation
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS –
State and Local Rate Regulation
”
in the Form 10-K for a discussion of state and local rate regulation. The following are updates to that discussion.
Retail Rates
As discussed in the Form 10-K, in February 2017, Entergy New Orleans filed a proposed implementation plan for the Energy Smart program from April 2017 through March 2020. As part of the proposal, Entergy New Orleans requested that the City Council identify its desired level of funding for the program during this time period and approve a cost recovery mechanism. In April 2017 the City Council approved an implementation plan for the Energy Smart program from April 2017 through December 2019. The City Council directed that the
$11.8 million
balance reported for Energy Smart funds be used to continue funding the program for Entergy New Orleans’s legacy customers and that the Energy Smart Algiers program continue to be funded through the Algiers fuel adjustment clause, until additional customer funding is required for the legacy customers. In September 2017, Entergy New Orleans filed a supplemental plan and proposed several options for an interim cost recovery mechanism necessary to recover program costs during the period between when existing funds directed to Energy Smart programs are depleted (estimated to be June 2018) and when new rates from the anticipated 2018 combined rate case, which will include a cost recovery mechanism for Energy Smart funding, take effect (estimated to be August 2019). Entergy New Orleans requested that the City Council approve a cost recovery mechanism prior to June 2018.
Internal Restructuring
As discussed in the Form 10-K, in July 2016, Entergy New Orleans filed an application with the City Council seeking authorization to undertake a restructuring that would result in the transfer of substantially all of the assets and operations of Entergy New Orleans to a new entity, which would ultimately be owned by an existing Entergy subsidiary holding company. In May 2017 the City Council adopted a resolution approving the proposed internal restructuring pursuant to an agreement in principle with the City Council advisors and certain intervenors. Pursuant to the agreement in principle, Entergy New Orleans will credit retail customers
$10 million
in 2017,
$1.4 million
in the first quarter of the year after the transaction closes, and
$117,500
each month in the second year after the transaction closes until such time as new base rates go into effect as a result of the anticipated 2018 base rate case. Entergy New Orleans began crediting retail customers in June 2017. In June 2017 the FERC approved the transaction and, pursuant to the agreement in principle, Entergy New Orleans will provide additional credits to retail customers of
$5 million
in each of the years 2018, 2019, and 2020. Entergy New Orleans expects to complete the internal restructuring in fourth quarter 2017.
Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) Filing
As discussed in the Form 10-K, in October 2016, Entergy New Orleans filed an application seeking a finding from the City Council that Entergy New Orleans’s deployment of advanced electric and gas metering infrastructure is in the public interest. In April 2017, Entergy New Orleans received intervenor testimony that was generally supportive of AMI deployment. The City Council’s advisors filed testimony in May 2017 recommending the adoption of AMI subject to certain modifications, including the denial of Entergy New Orleans’s proposed customer charge as a cost recovery mechanism. In June 2017 the procedural schedule was suspended to allow for settlement discussions. A status conference was held in October 2017, and the parties set another status conference for February 2018 with the intent to continue to pursue settlement in the interim.
Federal Regulation
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS –
Federal Regulation
”
in the Form 10-K for a discussion of federal regulation.
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Nuclear Matters
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS -
Nuclear Matters
” in the Form 10-K for further discussion of nuclear matters.
Environmental Risks
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS -
Environmental Risks
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of environmental risks.
Critical Accounting Estimates
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS -
Critical Accounting Estimates
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of the estimates and judgments necessary in Entergy New Orleans’s accounting for utility regulatory accounting, unbilled revenue, impairment of long-lived assets and trust fund investments, taxation and uncertain tax positions, qualified pension and other postretirement benefits, and other contingencies.
New Accounting Pronouncements
See “
New Accounting Pronouncements
” section of Entergy Corporation and Subsidiaries Management’s Financial Discussion and Analysis for further discussion.
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ENTERGY NEW ORLEANS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENTS
For the Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 and 2016
(Unaudited)
Three Months Ended
Nine Months Ended
2017
2016
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
(In Thousands)
OPERATING REVENUES
Electric
$182,451
$185,775
$482,251
$457,317
Natural gas
16,566
15,561
61,977
58,279
TOTAL
199,017
201,336
544,228
515,596
OPERATING EXPENSES
Operation and Maintenance:
Fuel, fuel-related expenses, and gas purchased for resale
26,082
19,231
79,118
42,706
Purchased power
79,137
82,581
220,601
221,689
Other operation and maintenance
26,448
27,251
74,256
78,752
Taxes other than income taxes
15,135
13,409
41,397
35,846
Depreciation and amortization
13,286
13,047
39,356
38,719
Other regulatory charges - net
5,514
3,538
6,717
6,812
TOTAL
165,602
159,057
461,445
424,524
OPERATING INCOME
33,415
42,279
82,783
91,072
OTHER INCOME
Allowance for equity funds used during construction
654
311
1,656
767
Interest and investment income
222
58
521
157
Miscellaneous - net
39
(92
)
177
(144
)
TOTAL
915
277
2,354
780
INTEREST EXPENSE
Interest expense
5,313
5,373
16,012
15,730
Allowance for borrowed funds used during construction
(229
)
(116
)
(580
)
(291
)
TOTAL
5,084
5,257
15,432
15,439
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES
29,246
37,299
69,705
76,413
Income taxes
10,717
13,598
25,316
29,701
NET INCOME
18,529
23,701
44,389
46,712
Preferred dividend requirements and other
241
241
724
724
EARNINGS APPLICABLE TO COMMON STOCK
$18,288
$23,460
$43,665
$45,988
See Notes to Financial Statements.
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ENTERGY NEW ORLEANS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 and 2016
(Unaudited)
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net income
$44,389
$46,712
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash flow provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization
39,356
38,719
Deferred income taxes, investment tax credits, and non-current taxes accrued
30,834
132,201
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Receivables
(17,030
)
(17,409
)
Fuel inventory
(490
)
(215
)
Accounts payable
(4,950
)
7,088
Prepaid taxes
(4,484
)
(87,763
)
Interest accrued
546
1,172
Deferred fuel costs
4,258
(16,671
)
Other working capital accounts
(6,750
)
735
Provisions for estimated losses
(1,702
)
678
Other regulatory assets
10,093
6,837
Pension and other postretirement liabilities
(13,793
)
(13,673
)
Other assets and liabilities
3,963
(5,588
)
Net cash flow provided by operating activities
84,240
92,823
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Construction expenditures
(81,143
)
(63,161
)
Allowance for equity funds used during construction
1,656
767
Payment for purchase of plant
—
(237,335
)
Investment in affiliates
—
(38
)
Changes in money pool receivable - net
(32,067
)
9,622
Receipts from storm reserve escrow account
—
3
Payments to storm reserve escrow account
(406
)
(300
)
Changes in securitization account
(2,990
)
(502
)
Change in other investments
(1,754
)
—
Net cash flow used in investing activities
(116,704
)
(290,944
)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Proceeds from the issuance of long-term debt
—
190,697
Retirement of long-term debt
(5,114
)
(77,094
)
Capital contribution from parent
—
47,750
Dividends paid:
Common stock
(36,100
)
(14,000
)
Preferred stock
(724
)
(724
)
Other
216
505
Net cash flow provided by (used in) financing activities
(41,722
)
147,134
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
(74,186
)
(50,987
)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
103,068
88,876
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$28,882
$37,889
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
Cash paid during the period for:
Interest - net of amount capitalized
$14,668
$13,613
Income taxes
$—
$8,500
See Notes to Financial Statements.
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ENTERGY NEW ORLEANS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
ASSETS
September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
CURRENT ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash
$518
$28
Temporary cash investments
28,364
103,040
Total cash and cash equivalents
28,882
103,068
Securitization recovery trust account
4,728
1,738
Accounts receivable:
Customer
57,440
43,536
Allowance for doubtful accounts
(3,140
)
(3,059
)
Associated companies
49,213
16,811
Other
4,928
5,926
Accrued unbilled revenues
22,124
18,254
Total accounts receivable
130,565
81,468
Deferred fuel costs
560
4,818
Fuel inventory - at average cost
2,331
1,841
Materials and supplies - at average cost
10,682
8,416
Prepaid taxes
8,863
4,379
Prepayments and other
15,515
6,587
TOTAL
202,126
212,315
OTHER PROPERTY AND INVESTMENTS
Non-utility property at cost (less accumulated depreciation)
1,016
1,016
Storm reserve escrow account
81,843
81,437
Other
2,414
7,160
TOTAL
85,273
89,613
UTILITY PLANT
Electric
1,276,279
1,258,934
Natural gas
252,608
240,408
Construction work in progress
49,885
24,975
TOTAL UTILITY PLANT
1,578,772
1,524,317
Less - accumulated depreciation and amortization
621,488
604,825
UTILITY PLANT - NET
957,284
919,492
DEFERRED DEBITS AND OTHER ASSETS
Regulatory assets:
Deferred fuel costs
4,080
4,080
Other regulatory assets (includes securitization property of $74,586 as of September 30, 2017 and $82,272 as of December 31, 2016)
258,013
268,106
Other
890
963
TOTAL
262,983
273,149
TOTAL ASSETS
$1,507,666
$1,494,569
See Notes to Financial Statements.
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ENTERGY NEW ORLEANS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Payable due to Entergy Louisiana
$2,104
$2,104
Accounts payable:
Associated companies
42,408
39,260
Other
26,110
35,920
Customer deposits
28,734
28,667
Interest accrued
5,989
5,443
Other
9,291
11,415
TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES
114,636
122,809
NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES
Accumulated deferred income taxes and taxes accrued
369,688
334,953
Accumulated deferred investment tax credits
528
622
Regulatory liability for income taxes - net
4,133
9,074
Asset retirement cost liabilities
3,024
2,875
Accumulated provisions
86,811
88,513
Pension and other postretirement liabilities
22,957
36,750
Long-term debt (includes securitization bonds of $79,844 as of September 30, 2017 and $84,776 as of December 31, 2016)
423,783
428,467
Long-term payable due to Entergy Louisiana
18,423
18,423
Gas system rebuild insurance proceeds
—
447
Other
9,392
4,910
TOTAL NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES
938,739
925,034
Commitments and Contingencies
Preferred stock without sinking fund
19,780
19,780
COMMON EQUITY
Common stock, $4 par value, authorized 10,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding 8,435,900 shares in 2017 and 2016
33,744
33,744
Paid-in capital
171,544
171,544
Retained earnings
229,223
221,658
TOTAL
434,511
426,946
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
$1,507,666
$1,494,569
See Notes to Financial Statements.
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ENTERGY NEW ORLEANS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN COMMON EQUITY
For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 and 2016
(Unaudited)
Common Equity
Common
Stock
Paid-in
Capital
Retained
Earnings
Total
(In Thousands)
Balance at December 31, 2015
$33,744
$123,794
$192,494
$350,032
Net income
—
—
46,712
46,712
Capital contribution from parent
—
47,750
—
47,750
Common stock dividends
—
—
(14,000
)
(14,000
)
Preferred stock dividends
—
—
(724
)
(724
)
Balance at September 30, 2016
$33,744
$171,544
$224,482
$429,770
Balance at December 31, 2016
$33,744
$171,544
$221,658
$426,946
Net income
—
—
44,389
44,389
Common stock dividends
—
—
(36,100
)
(36,100
)
Preferred stock dividends
—
—
(724
)
(724
)
Balance at September 30, 2017
$33,744
$171,544
$229,223
$434,511
See Notes to Financial Statements.
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ENTERGY NEW ORLEANS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
SELECTED OPERATING RESULTS
For the Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 and 2016
(Unaudited)
Three Months Ended
Increase/
Description
2017
2016
(Decrease)
%
(Dollars In Millions)
Electric Operating Revenues:
Residential
$82
$80
$2
3
Commercial
63
60
3
5
Industrial
9
9
—
—
Governmental
21
20
1
5
Total retail
175
169
6
4
Sales for resale:
Associated companies
—
11
(11
)
(100
)
Non-associated companies
3
1
2
200
Other
4
5
(1
)
(20
)
Total
$182
$186
($4
)
(2
)
Billed Electric Energy Sales (GWh):
Residential
711
752
(41
)
(5
)
Commercial
634
652
(18
)
(3
)
Industrial
119
125
(6
)
(5
)
Governmental
217
224
(7
)
(3
)
Total retail
1,681
1,753
(72
)
(4
)
Sales for resale:
Associated companies
—
272
(272
)
(100
)
Non-associated companies
255
28
227
811
Total
1,936
2,053
(117
)
(6
)
Nine Months Ended
Increase/
Description
2017
2016
(Decrease)
%
(Dollars In Millions)
Electric Operating Revenues:
Residential
$191
$177
$14
8
Commercial
173
155
18
12
Industrial
26
24
2
8
Governmental
58
52
6
12
Total retail
448
408
40
10
Sales for resale:
Associated companies
—
30
(30
)
(100
)
Non associated companies
21
2
19
950
Other
13
17
(4
)
(24
)
Total
$482
$457
$25
5
Billed Electric Energy Sales (GWh):
Residential
1,635
1,710
(75
)
(4
)
Commercial
1,690
1,700
(10
)
(1
)
Industrial
322
333
(11
)
(3
)
Governmental
589
592
(3
)
(1
)
Total retail
4,236
4,335
(99
)
(2
)
Sales for resale:
Associated companies
—
1,070
(1,070
)
(100
)
Non-associated companies
1,270
83
1,187
1,430
Total
5,506
5,488
18
—
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ENTERGY TEXAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
Results of Operations
Net Income
Third Quarter
2017
Compared to
Third Quarter
2016
Net income decreased $16.5 million primarily due to lower net revenue, higher taxes other than income taxes, and higher depreciation and amortization expenses.
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017
Compared to
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016
Net income decreased $23.2 million primarily due to lower net revenue, higher depreciation and amortization expenses, higher taxes other than income taxes, and higher other operation and maintenance expenses, partially offset by a lower effective income tax rate.
Net Revenue
Third Quarter
2017
Compared to
Third Quarter
2016
Net revenue consists of operating revenues net of: 1) fuel, fuel-related expenses, and gas purchased for resale, 2) purchased power expenses, and 3) other regulatory charges. Following is an analysis of the change in net revenue comparing the
third quarter
2017
to the
third quarter
2016
:
Amount
(In Millions)
2016 net revenue
$203.4
Volume/weather
(10.1
)
Net wholesale revenue
(9.8
)
Purchased power capacity
(3.7
)
Transmission revenue
(3.3
)
Retail electric price
6.3
Other
(1.3
)
2017 net revenue
$181.5
The volume/weather variance is primarily due to the effect of less favorable weather on residential and commercial sales and the effects of the power outages caused by Hurricane Harvey, partially offset by an increase in residential usage resulting from a 1% increase in the average number of residential customers and an increase in industrial usage. The increase in industrial usage is primarily due to an increase in demand for mid to small customers and cogeneration customers.
The net wholesale revenue variance is primarily due to lower net capacity revenues resulting from the termination of the purchased power agreements between Entergy Louisiana and Entergy Texas in August 2016.
The purchased power capacity variance is primarily due to increased expenses due to capacity cost changes for ongoing purchased power capacity contracts.
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The transmission revenue variance is primarily due to a decrease in the amount of transmission revenues allocated by MISO.
The retail electric price variance is primarily due to the implementation of the transmission cost recovery factor rider in September 2016 and an increase in the transmission cost recovery factor rider rate in March 2017, each as approved by the PUCT. See Note 2 to the financial statements herein and in the Form 10-K for further discussion of the transmission cost recovery factor rider filings.
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017
Compared to
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016
Net revenue consists of operating revenues net of: 1) fuel, fuel-related expenses, and gas purchased for resale, 2) purchased power expenses, and 3) other regulatory charges. Following is an analysis of the change in net revenue comparing the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
to the
nine months ended
September 30, 2016
:
Amount
(In Millions)
2016 net revenue
$498.6
Net wholesale revenue
(30.7
)
Purchased power capacity
(5.5
)
Transmission revenue
(4.1
)
Retail electric
16.0
Other
0.5
2017 net revenue
$474.8
The net wholesale revenue variance is primarily due to lower net capacity revenues resulting from the termination of the purchased power agreements between Entergy Louisiana and Entergy Texas in August 2016.
The purchased power capacity variance is primarily due to increased expenses due to capacity cost changes for ongoing purchased power capacity contracts.
The transmission revenue variance is primarily due to a decrease in the amount of transmission revenues allocated by MISO.
The retail electric price variance is primarily due to the implementation of the transmission cost recovery factor rider in September 2016 and an increase in the transmission cost recovery factor rider rate in March 2017, each as approved by the PUCT. See Note 2 to the financial statements herein and in the Form 10-K for further discussion of the transmission cost recovery factor rider filings.
Other Income Statement Variances
Third Quarter
2017
Compared to
Third Quarter
2016
Taxes other than income taxes increased primarily due to an increase in ad valorem taxes resulting from higher assessments and a true-up to the sales and use tax accruals recorded in 2016 resulting from an audit settlement.
Depreciation and amortization expenses increased primarily due to additions to plant in service.
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Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017
Compared to
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016
Other operation and maintenance expenses increased primarily due to:
•
an increase of $2.6 million in transmission and distribution expenses primarily due to higher vegetation maintenance costs;
•
an increase of $1.8 million in customer service costs primarily due to higher write-offs of uncollectible customer accounts;
•
an increase of $1.6 million in fossil-fueled generation expenses primarily due to a higher scope of work done during plant outages in 2017 as compared to the same period in 2016;
•
an increase of $1.2 million as a result of the amount of transmission costs allocated by MISO
; and
•
an increase of $1.1 million in information technology expenses including software maintenance costs and upgrade projects.
The increase was partially offset by a decrease of $4.5 million due to the termination of transmission equalization expenses, as allocated under the System Agreement, as a result of Entergy Texas’s exit from the System Agreement in August 2016.
Taxes other than income taxes increased primarily due to an increase in ad valorem taxes resulting from higher assessments and a true-up to the sales and use tax accruals recorded in 2016 resulting from an audit settlement.
Depreciation and amortization expenses increased primarily due to additions to plant in service.
Income Taxes
The effective income tax rate was 35.9% for the
third quarter
2017
. The difference in the effective income tax rate for the
third quarter
2017
versus the federal statutory rate of 35% was primarily due to certain book and tax differences related to utility plant items, partially offset by book and tax differences related to the allowance for equity funds used during construction.
The effective income tax rate was 34.6% for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
. The difference in the effective income tax rate for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
versus the federal statutory rate of 35% was primarily due to book and tax differences related to the allowance for equity funds used during construction and the reversal of a portion of the provision for uncertain tax positions, partially offset by certain book and tax differences related to utility plant items
a
nd a write-off of a stock-based compensation deferred tax asset.
The effective income tax rates were 36.2% for the
third quarter
2016
and 37.4% for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2016
. The differences in the effective income tax rates for the
third quarter
2016
and for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2016
versus the federal statutory rate of 35% were primarily due to state income taxes and certain book and tax differences related to utility plant items, partially offset by book and tax differences related to the allowance for equity funds used during construction.
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Management's Financial Discussion and Analysis
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Cash Flow
Cash flows for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
and
2016
were as follows:
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
$6,181
$2,182
Cash flow provided by (used in):
Operating activities
192,954
196,698
Investing activities
(228,582
)
(251,366
)
Financing activities
30,949
53,829
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
(4,679
)
(839
)
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$1,502
$1,343
Operating Activities
Net cash flow provided by operating activities decreased $3.7 million for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
compared to the
nine months ended
September 30, 2016
primarily due to decreased net income.
The decrease was partially offset by:
•
the timing of recovery of fuel and purchased power costs in 2017 as compared to the same period in 2016;
•
income tax refunds of $1.4 million in 2017 compared to income tax payments of $3.4 million in 2016 in accordance with an intercompany income tax allocation agreement; and
•
a decrease of $3.3 million in interest paid in 2017 as compared to the same period in 2016.
Investing Activities
Net cash flow used in investing activities decreased $22.8 million for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
compared to the
nine months ended
September 30, 2016
primarily due to a decrease of $55.7 million in transmission construction expenditures primarily due to a lower scope of work performed in 2017 as compared to the same period in 2016, partially offset by an increase in baseline work performed in 2017 as compared to the same period in 2016. The decrease was partially offset by an increase of $24.3 million in fossil-fueled generation construction expenditures primarily due to a higher scope of work performed in 2017 as compared to the same period in 2016 and an increase of $9.4 million in distribution construction expenditures primarily due to increased spending on digital technology improvements within the customer contact centers.
Financing Activities
Net cash flow provided by financing activities decreased $22.9 million for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
compared to the
nine months ended
September 30, 2016
primarily due to the issuance of $125 million of 2.55% Series first mortgage bonds in March 2016, partially offset by money pool activity. See Note 4 to the financial statements herein and Note 5 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for more details on long-term debt.
Increases in Entergy Texas’s payable to the money pool are a source of cash flow, and Entergy Texas’s payable to the money pool increased by $89.3 million for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
compared to decreasing
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Management's Financial Discussion and Analysis
by $9.7 million for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2016
. The money pool is an inter-company borrowing arrangement designed to reduce the Utility subsidiaries’ need for external short-term borrowings.
Capital Structure
Entergy Texas’s capitalization is balanced between equity and debt, as shown in the following table. The decrease in the debt to capital ratio for Entergy Texas is primarily due to the increase in retained earnings.
September 30,
2017
December 31, 2016
Debt to capital
56.0
%
58.5
%
Effect of excluding the securitization bonds
(7.4
%)
(8.3
%)
Debt to capital, excluding securitization bonds (a)
48.6
%
50.2
%
Effect of subtracting cash
—
%
(0.1
%)
Net debt to net capital, excluding securitization bonds (a)
48.6
%
50.1
%
(a)
Calculation excludes the securitization bonds, which are non-recourse to Entergy Texas.
Net debt consists of debt less cash and cash equivalents. Debt consists of long-term debt, including the currently maturing portion. Capital consists of debt and common equity. Net capital consists of capital less cash and cash equivalents. Entergy Texas uses the debt to capital ratios excluding securitization bonds in analyzing its financial condition and believes they provide useful information to its investors and creditors in evaluating Entergy Texas’s financial condition because the securitization bonds are non-recourse to Entergy Texas, as more fully described in Note 5 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K. Entergy Texas also uses the net debt to net capital ratio excluding securitization bonds in analyzing its financial condition and believes it provides useful information to its investors and creditors in evaluating Entergy Texas’s financial condition because net debt indicates Entergy Texas’s outstanding debt position that could not be readily satisfied by cash and cash equivalents on hand.
Uses and Sources of Capital
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS -
Liquidity and Capital Resources
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of Entergy Texas’s uses and sources of capital. Following are updates to information provided in the Form 10-K.
Entergy Texas is developing its capital investment plan for 2018 through 2020 and currently anticipates making $1.9 billion in capital investments during that period. The estimate includes amounts associated with specific investments such as the Montgomery County Power Station discussed below; transmission projects to enhance reliability, reduce congestion, and enable economic growth; distribution spending to enhance reliability and improve service to customers, including initial investment to support advanced metering; system improvements; and other investments. Estimated capital expenditures are subject to periodic review and modification and may vary based on the ongoing effects of regulatory constraints and requirements, environmental compliance, business opportunities, market volatility, economic trends, business restructuring, changes in project plans, and the ability to access capital.
Entergy Texas’s receivables from or (payables to) the money pool were as follows:
September 30,
2017
December 31,
2016
September 30,
2016
December 31,
2015
(In Thousands)
($89,312)
$681
($12,399)
($22,068)
See Note 4 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for a description of the money pool.
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Entergy Texas has a credit facility in the amount of $150 million scheduled to expire in August 2022. The credit facility permits the issuance of letters of credit against 50% of the borrowing capacity of the facility. As of
September 30, 2017
, there were no cash borrowings and $24.4 million of letters of credit outstanding under the credit facility. In addition, Entergy Texas is a party to an uncommitted letter of credit facility as a means to post collateral to support its obligations to MISO. As of
September 30, 2017
, a $19.6 million letter of credit was outstanding under Entergy Texas’s uncommitted letter of credit facility. See Note 4 to the financial statements herein for additional discussion of the credit facilities.
Montgomery County Power Station
In October 2016, Entergy Texas filed an application with the PUCT seeking certification that the public convenience and necessity would be served by the construction of the Montgomery County Power Station, a nominal 993 MW combined-cycle generating unit in Montgomery County, Texas on land adjacent to the existing Lewis Creek plant. The current estimated cost of the Montgomery County Power Station is $937 million, including estimated costs of transmission interconnection and network upgrades and other related costs. The independent monitor, who oversaw the request for proposal process, filed testimony and a report affirming that the Montgomery County Power Station was selected through an objective and fair request for proposal process that showed no undue preference to any proposal. In June 2017, parties to the proceeding filed an unopposed stipulation and settlement agreement. The stipulation contemplates that Entergy Texas’s level of cost-recovery for generation construction costs for Montgomery County Power Station is capped at $831 million, subject to certain exclusions such as force majeure events. The costs of the transmission interconnection and network upgrades and other related costs included in the total current estimated cost of the Montgomery County Power Station are not subject to the $831 million cap. Also in June 2017, the ALJ issued a proposed order and remanded the proceeding to the PUCT for final decision. In July 2017 the PUCT approved the stipulation. Subject to the timely receipt of other permits and approvals, commercial operation is estimated to occur by mid-2021.
Hurricane Harvey
In August 2017, Hurricane Harvey caused extensive damage to Entergy Texas’s service area. The storm resulted in widespread power outages and significant damage primarily to distribution infrastructure. Total restoration costs for the repair and/or replacement of Entergy Texas’s electric facilities damaged by Hurricane Harvey are currently estimated to be in the range of $75 million to $105 million. Based on current progress, management expects total restoration costs to be towards the lower end of the range. Entergy Texas is considering all reasonable avenues to recover storm-related costs from Hurricane Harvey, including, but not limited to, securitization or other alternative financing and traditional retail recovery on an interim and permanent basis. Storm cost recovery or financing will be subject to review by applicable regulatory authorities.
Entergy Texas has recorded accounts payable for the estimated costs incurred that were necessary to return customers to service. Entergy Texas recorded corresponding regulatory assets of approximately $13.1 million and construction work in progress of approximately $25.9 million. Entergy Texas recorded the regulatory assets in accordance with its accounting policies and based on the historic treatment of such costs in its service area because management believes that recovery through some form of regulatory mechanism is probable. Because Entergy Texas has not gone through the regulatory process regarding these storm costs, there is an element of risk, and Entergy Texas is unable to predict with certainty the degree of success it may have in its recovery initiatives, the amount of restoration costs that it may ultimately recover, or the timing of such recovery.
State and Local Rate Regulation and Fuel-Cost Recovery
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS -
State and Local Rate Regulation and Fuel-Cost Recovery
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of state and local rate regulation and fuel-cost recovery. The following are updates to that discussion.
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Retail Rates
2011 Rate Case
See the Form 10-K for discussion of Entergy Texas’s 2011 rate case. As discussed in the Form 10-K, several parties, including Entergy Texas, appealed various aspects of the PUCT’s order to the Travis County District Court. In October 2014 the Travis County District Court issued an order upholding the PUCT’s decision except as to the line-loss factor issue referenced in the Form 10-K, which was found in favor of Entergy Texas. In November 2014, Entergy Texas and other parties, including the PUCT, appealed the Travis County District Court decision to the Third Court of Appeals. Oral argument before the court panel was held in September 2015. In April 2016 the Third Court of Appeals issued its opinion affirming the District Court’s decision on all points. Entergy Texas and other parties petitioned the Texas Supreme Court to hear its appeal of the Third Court’s ruling. In September 2017 the Texas Supreme Court denied the petitions for review. Entergy Texas filed a motion for rehearing of the Texas Supreme Court’s denial of the petition for review. That motion is pending.
Other Filings
In September 2016, Entergy Texas filed with the PUCT a request to amend its transmission cost recovery factor (TCRF) rider. The proposed amended TCRF rider is designed to collect approximately $29.5 million annually from Entergy Texas’s retail customers. This amount includes the approximately $10.5 million annually that Entergy Texas is currently authorized to collect through the TCRF rider. In December 2016, Entergy Texas and the PUCT reached a settlement agreeing to the amended TCRF annual revenue requirement of $29.5 million. The PUCT approved the settlement and issued a final order in March 2017. Entergy Texas implemented the amended TCRF rider beginning with bills covering usage on and after March 20, 2017.
In June 2017, Entergy Texas filed an application to amend its distribution cost recovery factor (DCRF) rider by increasing the total collection from $8.65 million to approximately $19 million. In July 2017, Entergy Texas, the PUCT, and the parties in the proceeding entered into an unopposed stipulation and settlement agreement resulting in an amended DCRF annual revenue requirement of $18.3 million, with the resulting rates effective for usage no later than October 1, 2017. In September 2017 the PUCT issued its final order approving the unopposed stipulation and settlement agreement. The amended DCRF rider rates became effective for usage on and after September 1, 2017.
Fuel and purchased power cost recovery
As discussed in the Form 10-K, in July 2016, Entergy Texas filed an application to reconcile its fuel and purchased power costs for the period April 1, 2013 through March 31, 2016. In December 2016, Entergy Texas entered into a stipulation and settlement agreement resulting in a $6 million disallowance not associated with any particular issue raised and a refund of the over-recovery balance of $21 million as of November 30, 2016, to most customers beginning April 2017 through June 2017. The fuel reconciliation settlement was approved by the PUCT in March 2017 and the refunds were made.
In June 2017, Entergy Texas filed an application for a fuel refund of approximately $30.7 million for the months of December 2016 through April 2017. For most customers, the refunds flowed through bills for the months of July 2017 through September 2017. The fuel refund was approved by the PUCT in August 2017.
Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) Filing
In April 2017 the Texas legislature enacted legislation that extends statutory support for AMI deployment to Entergy Texas and directs that if Entergy Texas elects to deploy AMI, it shall do so as rapidly as practicable. In July 2017, Entergy Texas filed an application seeking an order from the PUCT approving Entergy Texas’s deployment of AMI. Entergy Texas proposed to replace existing meters with advanced meters that enable two-way data communication; design and build a secure and reliable network to support such communications; and implement support
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systems. AMI is intended to serve as the foundation of Entergy Texas’s modernized power grid. The filing identified a number of quantified and unquantified benefits, with Entergy Texas showing that its AMI deployment is expected to produce nominal net operational cost savings to customers of $33 million. Entergy Texas also sought to continue to include in rate base the remaining book value, approximately
$41 million
at December 31, 2016, of existing meters that will be retired as part of the AMI deployment and also to depreciate those assets using current depreciation rates. Entergy Texas proposed a seven-year depreciable life for the new advanced meters, the three-year deployment of which is expected to begin in 2019. Entergy Texas also proposed a surcharge tariff to recover the reasonable and necessary costs it has and will incur under the deployment plan for the full deployment of advanced meters. Further, Entergy Texas is seeking approval of fees that would be charged to customers who choose to opt out of receiving service through an advanced meter and instead receive electric service with a non-standard meter. Subject to approval by the PUCT, deployment of the communications network is expected to begin in 2018. In October 2017, Entergy Texas and other parties entered into and filed an unopposed stipulation and settlement agreement. PUCT action on the stipulation and settlement agreement remains pending. Entergy Texas expects a decision from the PUCT by December 2017.
Federal Regulation
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS –
Federal Regulation
”
in the Form 10-K for a discussion of federal regulation.
Industrial and Commercial Customers
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS –
Industrial and Commercial Customers
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of industrial and commercial customers.
Nuclear Matters
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS -
Nuclear Matters
” in the Form 10-K for discussion of nuclear matters.
Environmental Risks
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS -
Environmental Risks
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of environmental risks.
Critical Accounting Estimates
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS -
Critical Accounting Estimates
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of utility regulatory accounting, unbilled revenue, impairment of long-lived assets and trust fund investments, taxation and uncertain tax positions, qualified pension and other postretirement benefits, and other contingencies.
New Accounting Pronouncements
See “
New Accounting Pronouncements
” section of Entergy Corporation and Subsidiaries Management’s Financial Discussion and Analysis for further discussion.
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ENTERGY TEXAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENTS
For the Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 and 2016
(Unaudited)
Three Months Ended
Nine Months Ended
2017
2016
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
(In Thousands)
OPERATING REVENUES
Electric
$432,909
$442,085
$1,175,324
$1,233,311
OPERATING EXPENSES
Operation and Maintenance:
Fuel, fuel-related expenses, and gas purchased for resale
60,292
21,919
164,447
185,801
Purchased power
163,532
189,213
474,241
486,696
Other operation and maintenance
51,917
50,536
162,400
157,706
Taxes other than income taxes
20,811
17,486
59,506
54,081
Depreciation and amortization
29,788
27,412
87,272
79,526
Other regulatory charges - net
27,619
27,555
61,879
62,229
TOTAL
353,959
334,121
1,009,745
1,026,039
OPERATING INCOME
78,950
107,964
165,579
207,272
OTHER INCOME
Allowance for equity funds used during construction
1,849
1,472
4,762
6,174
Interest and investment income
244
221
656
689
Miscellaneous - net
1,298
(256
)
485
(726
)
TOTAL
3,391
1,437
5,903
6,137
INTEREST EXPENSE
Interest expense
21,714
22,416
64,949
65,993
Allowance for borrowed funds used during construction
(1,134
)
(954
)
(2,896
)
(4,008
)
TOTAL
20,580
21,462
62,053
61,985
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES
61,761
87,939
109,429
151,424
Income taxes
22,173
31,806
37,886
56,671
NET INCOME
$39,588
$56,133
$71,543
$94,753
See Notes to Financial Statements.
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ENTERGY TEXAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 and 2016
(Unaudited)
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net income
$71,543
$94,753
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash flow provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization
87,272
79,526
Deferred income taxes, investment tax credits, and non-current taxes accrued
36,252
(7,605
)
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Receivables
(30,030
)
(40,678
)
Fuel inventory
(7,371
)
268
Accounts payable
24,711
(74
)
Prepaid taxes and taxes accrued
1,122
55,121
Interest accrued
(7,207
)
(9,453
)
Deferred fuel costs
(3,134
)
(6,472
)
Other working capital accounts
(8,455
)
(9,786
)
Provisions for estimated losses
(1,460
)
(3,318
)
Other regulatory assets
59,549
69,324
Pension and other postretirement liabilities
(22,978
)
(21,092
)
Other assets and liabilities
(6,860
)
(3,816
)
Net cash flow provided by operating activities
192,954
196,698
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Construction expenditures
(243,226
)
(264,394
)
Allowance for equity funds used during construction
4,879
6,266
Insurance proceeds received for property damages
2,431
—
Change in money pool receivable - net
681
—
Changes in securitization account
6,653
6,762
Net cash flow used in investing activities
(228,582
)
(251,366
)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Proceeds from the issuance of long-term debt
—
123,502
Retirement of long-term debt
(58,076
)
(55,764
)
Changes in money pool payable - net
89,312
(9,669
)
Other
(287
)
(4,240
)
Net cash flow provided by financing activities
30,949
53,829
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
(4,679
)
(839
)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
6,181
2,182
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$1,502
$1,343
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
Cash paid (received) during the period for:
Interest - net of amount capitalized
$70,237
$73,570
Income taxes
($1,446
)
$3,443
See Notes to Financial Statements.
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ENTERGY TEXAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
ASSETS
September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
CURRENT ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents:
Cash
$1,472
$1,216
Temporary cash investments
30
4,965
Total cash and cash equivalents
1,502
6,181
Securitization recovery trust account
30,798
37,451
Accounts receivable:
Customer
86,860
71,803
Allowance for doubtful accounts
(552
)
(828
)
Associated companies
41,002
39,447
Other
12,982
14,756
Accrued unbilled revenues
53,962
39,727
Total accounts receivable
194,254
164,905
Fuel inventory - at average cost
44,548
37,177
Materials and supplies - at average cost
40,294
36,631
Prepayments and other
24,194
18,599
TOTAL
335,590
300,944
OTHER PROPERTY AND INVESTMENTS
Investments in affiliates - at equity
538
600
Non-utility property - at cost (less accumulated depreciation)
376
376
Other
19,126
18,801
TOTAL
20,040
19,777
UTILITY PLANT
Electric
4,431,291
4,274,069
Construction work in progress
153,679
111,227
TOTAL UTILITY PLANT
4,584,970
4,385,296
Less - accumulated depreciation and amortization
1,566,743
1,526,057
UTILITY PLANT - NET
3,018,227
2,859,239
DEFERRED DEBITS AND OTHER ASSETS
Regulatory assets:
Regulatory asset for income taxes - net
104,915
105,816
Other regulatory assets (includes securitization property of $330,669 as of September 30, 2017 and $384,609 as of December 31, 2016)
681,508
740,156
Other
8,303
7,149
TOTAL
794,726
853,121
TOTAL ASSETS
$4,168,583
$4,033,081
See Notes to Financial Statements.
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ENTERGY TEXAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Accounts payable:
Associated companies
$142,695
$47,867
Other
106,117
77,342
Customer deposits
44,141
44,419
Taxes accrued
16,473
15,351
Interest accrued
18,770
25,977
Deferred fuel costs
51,409
54,543
Other
10,445
9,388
TOTAL
390,050
274,887
NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES
Accumulated deferred income taxes and taxes accrued
1,061,320
1,027,647
Accumulated deferred investment tax credits
12,221
12,934
Other regulatory liabilities
7,002
8,502
Asset retirement cost liabilities
6,742
6,470
Accumulated provisions
6,124
7,584
Pension and other postretirement liabilities
44,359
67,313
Long-term debt (includes securitization bonds of $371,422 as of September 30, 2017 and $429,043 as of December 31, 2016)
1,451,643
1,508,407
Other
48,585
50,343
TOTAL
2,637,996
2,689,200
Commitments and Contingencies
COMMON EQUITY
Common stock, no par value, authorized 200,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding 46,525,000 shares in 2017 and 2016
49,452
49,452
Paid-in capital
481,994
481,994
Retained earnings
609,091
537,548
TOTAL
1,140,537
1,068,994
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
$4,168,583
$4,033,081
See Notes to Financial Statements.
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ENTERGY TEXAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN COMMON EQUITY
For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 and 2016
(Unaudited)
Common Equity
Common
Stock
Paid-in
Capital
Retained
Earnings
Total
(In Thousands)
Balance at December 31, 2015
$49,452
$481,994
$430,010
$961,456
Net income
—
—
94,753
94,753
Balance at September 30, 2016
$49,452
$481,994
$524,763
$1,056,209
Balance at December 31, 2016
$49,452
$481,994
$537,548
$1,068,994
Net income
—
—
71,543
71,543
Balance at September 30, 2017
$49,452
$481,994
$609,091
$1,140,537
See Notes to Financial Statements.
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ENTERGY TEXAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
SELECTED OPERATING RESULTS
For the Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 and 2016
(Unaudited)
Three Months Ended
Increase/
Description
2017
2016
(Decrease)
%
(Dollars In Millions)
Electric Operating Revenues:
Residential
$202
$196
$6
3
Commercial
101
91
10
11
Industrial
97
75
22
29
Governmental
6
6
—
—
Total retail
406
368
38
10
Sales for resale:
Associated companies
18
52
(34
)
(65
)
Non-associated companies
4
13
(9
)
(69
)
Other
5
9
(4
)
(44
)
Total
$433
$442
($9
)
(2
)
Billed Electric Energy Sales (GWh):
Residential
1,839
1,989
(150
)
(8
)
Commercial
1,279
1,336
(57
)
(4
)
Industrial
2,018
1,948
70
4
Governmental
73
75
(2
)
(3
)
Total retail
5,209
5,348
(139
)
(3
)
Sales for resale:
Associated companies
386
1,187
(801
)
(67
)
Non-associated companies
238
354
(116
)
(33
)
Total
5,833
6,889
(1,056
)
(15
)
Nine Months Ended
Increase/
Description
2017
2016
(Decrease)
%
(Dollars In Millions)
Electric Operating Revenues:
Residential
$482
$461
$21
5
Commercial
282
260
22
8
Industrial
292
263
29
11
Governmental
18
18
—
—
Total retail
1,074
1,002
72
7
Sales for resale:
Associated companies
47
169
(122
)
(72
)
Non-associated companies
18
31
(13
)
(42
)
Other
36
31
5
16
Total
$1,175
$1,233
($58
)
(5
)
Billed Electric Energy Sales (GWh):
Residential
4,326
4,473
(147
)
(3
)
Commercial
3,387
3,423
(36
)
(1
)
Industrial
5,781
5,693
88
2
Governmental
205
213
(8
)
(4
)
Total retail
13,699
13,802
(103
)
(1
)
Sales for resale:
Associated companies
1,149
4,292
(3,143
)
(73
)
Non-associated companies
586
848
(262
)
(31
)
Total
15,434
18,942
(3,508
)
(19
)
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Table of Contents
SYSTEM ENERGY RESOURCES, INC.
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
Results of Operations
System Energy’s principal asset currently consists of an ownership interest and a leasehold interest in Grand Gulf. The capacity and energy from its 90% interest is sold under the Unit Power Sales Agreement to its only four customers, Entergy Arkansas, Entergy Louisiana, Entergy Mississippi, and Entergy New Orleans. System Energy’s operating revenues are derived from the allocation of the capacity, energy, and related costs associated with its 90% interest in Grand Gulf pursuant to the Unit Power Sales Agreement. Payments under the Unit Power Sales Agreement are System Energy’s only source of operating revenues.
Third Quarter
2017
Compared to
Third Quarter
2016
Net income changed insignificantly, decreasing by $1.8 million, for the third quarter 2017 compared to the third quarter 2016.
Nine Months Ended
September 30, 2017
Compared to
Nine Months Ended
September 30, 2016
Net income decreased $13.1 million primarily due to provisions against revenue being recorded in 2017 in connection with the complaint against System Energy’s return on equity, lower other regulatory credits, and a higher effective income tax rate in 2017. See “
Federal Regulation
-
Complaint Against System Energy
” below for further discussion of the complaint against System Energy. System Energy records a regulatory debit or credit for the difference between asset retirement obligation-related expenses and trust earnings plus asset retirement obligation-related costs collected in revenue. The decrease in regulatory credits is primarily caused by decreases in depreciation and accretion expenses.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Cash Flow
Cash flows for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
and
2016
were as follows:
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
$245,863
$230,661
Cash flow provided by (used in):
Operating activities
279,485
234,759
Investing activities
(259,598
)
(193,271
)
Financing activities
(120,783
)
(80,987
)
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
(100,896
)
(39,499
)
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$144,967
$191,162
Operating Activities
Net cash flow provided by operating activities increased $44.7 million for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
compared to the
nine months ended
September 30, 2016
primarily due to a decrease in spending of $36.1 million on nuclear refueling outages in 2017 as compared to the same period in 2016 and the timing of collection of receivables,
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System Energy Resources, Inc.
Management's Financial Discussion and Analysis
partially offset by proceeds of $28.4 million received in August 2016 from the DOE resulting from litigation regarding spent nuclear fuel storage costs that were previously expensed. See Note 8 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for a discussion of the DOE litigation.
Investing Activities
Net cash flow used in investing activities increased $66.3 million for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
compared to the
nine months ended
September 30, 2016
primarily due to:
•
money pool activity;
•
proceeds of $15.8 million received in August 2016 from the DOE resulting from litigation regarding spent nuclear fuel storage costs that were previously capitalized. See Note 8 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for discussion of the DOE litigation; and
•
$9.1 million in funds held on deposit for interest payments due October 1, 2017.
The increase was partially offset by:
•
fluctuations in nuclear fuel activity because of variations from year to year in the timing and pricing of fuel reload requirements in the Utility business, material and services deliveries, and the timing of cash payments during the nuclear fuel cycle; and
•
a decrease of $15.9 million in nuclear construction expenditures primarily as a result of a higher scope of work performed in 2016 on Grand Gulf outage projects and lower spending in 2017 on compliance with NRC post-Fukushima requirements.
Increases in System Energy’s receivable from the money pool are a use of cash flow and System Energy’s receivable from the money pool increased by $202.7 million for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
compared to decreasing by $8.4 million for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2016
. The money pool is an inter-company borrowing arrangement designed to reduce the Utility subsidiaries’ need for external short-term borrowings.
Financing Activities
Net cash flow used in financing activities increased $39.8 million for the
nine months ended
September 30, 2017
compared to the
nine months ended
September 30, 2016
primarily due to:
•
a decrease in net borrowings of $65.2 million on the nuclear fuel company variable interest entity’s credit facility in 2017 as compared to the same period in 2016; and
•
the payment in February 2017, at maturity, of $50 million of the System Energy nuclear fuel company variable interest entity’s 4.02% Series H notes.
The increase was partially offset by:
•
a decrease in common stock dividends and distributions of $53.4 million in 2017 compared to 2016 in order to maintain the targeted capital structure; and
•
the partial repayment caused by System Energy in May 2016 of $22 million of 5.875% pollution control revenue bonds due 2022 issued on behalf of System Energy.
See Note 4 to the financial statements herein and Note 5 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for more details on long-term debt.
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System Energy Resources, Inc.
Management's Financial Discussion and Analysis
Capital Structure
System Energy’s capitalization is balanced between equity and debt, as shown in the following table.
September 30,
2017
December 31, 2016
Debt to capital
45.0
%
45.5
%
Effect of subtracting cash
(7.0
%)
(12.0
%)
Net debt to net capital
38.0
%
33.5
%
Net debt consists of debt less cash and cash equivalents. Debt consists of short-term borrowings and long-term debt, including the currently maturing portion. Capital consists of debt and common equity. Net capital consists of capital less cash and cash equivalents. System Energy uses the debt to capital ratio in analyzing its financial condition and believes it provides useful information to its investors and creditors in evaluating System Energy’s financial condition. System Energy uses the net debt to net capital ratio in analyzing its financial condition and believes it provides useful information to its investors and creditors in evaluating System Energy’s financial condition because net debt indicates System Energy’s outstanding debt position that could not be readily satisfied by cash and cash equivalents on hand.
Uses and Sources of Capital
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS -
Liquidity and Capital Resources
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of System Energy’s uses and sources of capital. Following are updates to the information provided in the Form 10-K.
System Energy is developing its capital investment plan for 2018 through 2020 and currently anticipates making $515 million in capital investments during that period. The estimate includes amounts associated with specific investments and initiatives such as investments in Grand Gulf.
System Energy’s receivables from the money pool were as follows:
September 30,
2017
December 31,
2016
September 30,
2016
December 31,
2015
(In Thousands)
$236,467
$33,809
$31,511
$39,926
See Note 4 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for a description of the money pool.
The System Energy nuclear fuel company variable interest entity has a credit facility in the amount of
$120 million
scheduled to expire in
May 2019
. As of
September 30, 2017
, $31.8 million in letters of credit to support a like amount of commercial paper issued and $50 million in loans were outstanding under the System Energy nuclear fuel company variable interest entity credit facility. See Note 4 to the financial statements herein for additional discussion of the variable interest entity credit facility.
Federal Regulation
See the “
Rate, Cost-recovery, and Other Regulation
-
Federal Regulation
” section of Entergy Corporation and Subsidiaries Management’s Financial Discussion and Analysis in the Form 10-K and Note 2 to the financial statements herein and in the Form 10-K for a discussion of federal regulation.
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System Energy Resources, Inc.
Management's Financial Discussion and Analysis
Complaint Against System Energy
In January 2017 the APSC and MPSC filed a complaint with the FERC against System Energy. The complaint seeks a reduction in the return on equity component of the Unit Power Sales Agreement pursuant to which System Energy sells its Grand Gulf capacity and energy to Entergy Arkansas, Entergy Louisiana, Entergy Mississippi, and Entergy New Orleans. Entergy Arkansas also sells some of its Grand Gulf capacity and energy to Entergy Louisiana, Entergy Mississippi, and Entergy New Orleans under separate agreements. The current return on equity under the Unit Power Sales Agreement is 10.94%. The complaint alleges that the return on equity is unjust and unreasonable because current capital market and other considerations indicate that it is excessive. The complaint requests the FERC to institute proceedings to investigate the return on equity and establish a lower return on equity, and also requests that the FERC establish January 23, 2017, as a refund effective date. The complaint includes return on equity analysis that purports to establish that the range of reasonable return on equity for System Energy is between 8.37% and 8.67%. System Energy answered the complaint in February 2017 and disputes that a return on equity of 8.37% to 8.67% is just and reasonable. The LPSC and the City Council intervened in the proceeding expressing support for the complaint. System Energy is recording a provision against revenue for the potential outcome of this proceeding. In September 2017 the FERC established a refund effective date of January 23, 2017, consolidated the return on equity complaint proceeding with the proceeding related to System Energy’s Unit Power Sales Agreement amendments, discussed below, and directed the parties to engage in settlement proceedings before an ALJ. If the parties fail to come to an agreement during settlement proceedings, a prehearing conference will be held to establish a procedural schedule for hearing proceedings.
Unit Power Sales Agreement
In August 2017, System Energy submitted to the FERC proposed amendments to the Unit Power Sales Agreement pursuant to which System Energy sells its Grand Gulf capacity and energy to Entergy Arkansas, Entergy Louisiana, Entergy Mississippi, and Entergy New Orleans. The filing proposes limited amendments to the Unit Power Sales Agreement to adopt (1) updated rates for use in calculating Grand Gulf plant depreciation and amortization expenses and (2) updated nuclear decommissioning cost annual revenue requirements, both of which are recovered through the Unit Power Sales Agreement rate formula. The proposed amendments would result in lower charges to the Utility operating companies that buy capacity and energy from System Energy under the Unit Power Sales Agreement. The proposed changes are based on updated depreciation and nuclear decommissioning studies that take into account the renewal of Grand Gulf’s operating license for a term through November 1, 2044. System Energy requested that the FERC accept the amendments effective October 1, 2017.
In September 2017 the FERC accepted System Energy’s proposed Unit Power Sales Agreement amendments, subject to further proceedings to consider the justness and reasonableness of the amendments. Because the amendments propose a rate decrease, the FERC also initiated an investigation under Section 206 of the Federal Power Act to determine if the rate decrease should be lower than proposed. The FERC accepted the proposed amendments effective October 1, 2017, subject to refund pending the outcome of the further settlement and/or hearing proceedings, and established a refund effective date of October 11, 2017 with respect to the rate decrease. The FERC also consolidated the Unit Power Sales Agreement amendment proceeding with the proceeding related to the complaint filed by the APSC and MPSC, discussed above, and directed the parties to engage in settlement proceedings before an ALJ. If the parties fail to come to an agreement during settlement proceedings, a prehearing conference will be held to establish a procedural schedule for hearing proceedings.
Nuclear Matters
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS –
Nuclear Matters
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of nuclear matters.
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Table of Contents
System Energy Resources, Inc.
Management's Financial Discussion and Analysis
Environmental Risks
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS –
Environmental Risks
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of environmental risks.
Critical Accounting Estimates
See “
MANAGEMENT’S FINANCIAL DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS -
Critical Accounting Estimates
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of the estimates and judgments necessary in System Energy’s accounting for nuclear decommissioning costs, utility regulatory accounting, impairment of long-lived assets and trust fund investments, taxation and uncertain tax positions, qualified pension and other postretirement benefits, and other contingencies.
New Accounting Pronouncements
See “
New Accounting Pronouncements
” section of Entergy Corporation and Subsidiaries Management’s Financial Discussion and Analysis for further discussion.
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SYSTEM ENERGY RESOURCES, INC.
INCOME STATEMENTS
For the Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 and 2016
(Unaudited)
Three Months Ended
Nine Months Ended
2017
2016
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
(In Thousands)
OPERATING REVENUES
Electric
$156,106
$114,039
$475,849
$403,056
OPERATING EXPENSES
Operation and Maintenance:
Fuel, fuel-related expenses, and gas purchased for resale
16,170
(7,393
)
53,164
26,429
Nuclear refueling outage expenses
4,435
4,958
13,595
14,448
Other operation and maintenance
51,392
32,867
154,103
100,793
Decommissioning
8,290
12,802
34,974
37,782
Taxes other than income taxes
6,679
6,256
19,767
18,894
Depreciation and amortization
34,524
30,811
105,152
100,902
Other regulatory credits - net
(2,843
)
(10,148
)
(24,626
)
(32,564
)
TOTAL
118,647
70,153
356,129
266,684
OPERATING INCOME
37,459
43,886
119,720
136,372
OTHER INCOME
Allowance for equity funds used during construction
1,736
1,758
4,148
6,089
Interest and investment income
6,624
4,233
15,021
12,631
Miscellaneous - net
(130
)
(109
)
(361
)
(365
)
TOTAL
8,230
5,882
18,808
18,355
INTEREST EXPENSE
Interest expense
9,169
9,186
27,469
28,119
Allowance for borrowed funds used during construction
(425
)
(440
)
(1,014
)
(1,536
)
TOTAL
8,744
8,746
26,455
26,583
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES
36,945
41,022
112,073
128,144
Income taxes
16,362
18,652
51,793
54,726
NET INCOME
$20,583
$22,370
$60,280
$73,418
See Notes to Financial Statements.
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SYSTEM ENERGY RESOURCES, INC.
STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 and 2016
(Unaudited)
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net income
$60,280
$73,418
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash flow provided by operating activities:
Depreciation, amortization, and decommissioning, including nuclear fuel amortization
184,625
176,571
Deferred income taxes, investment tax credits, and non-current taxes accrued
44,017
73,829
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Receivables
21,147
9,084
Accounts payable
2,344
(2,217
)
Prepaid taxes and taxes accrued
2,956
(30,063
)
Interest accrued
401
406
Other working capital accounts
7,605
(22,051
)
Other regulatory assets
1,196
(12,392
)
Pension and other postretirement liabilities
(14,665
)
(15,789
)
Other assets and liabilities
(30,421
)
(16,037
)
Net cash flow provided by operating activities
279,485
234,759
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Construction expenditures
(60,041
)
(71,471
)
Allowance for equity funds used during construction
4,148
6,089
Nuclear fuel purchases
(24,239
)
(137,248
)
Proceeds from the sale of nuclear fuel
60,188
11,467
Changes in other investments - net
(9,061
)
—
Proceeds from nuclear decommissioning trust fund sales
308,134
392,926
Investment in nuclear decommissioning trust funds
(336,069
)
(419,255
)
Changes in money pool receivable - net
(202,658
)
8,415
Litigation proceeds for reimbursement of spent nuclear fuel storage costs
—
15,806
Net cash flow used in investing activities
(259,598
)
(193,271
)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Retirement of long-term debt
(50,003
)
(22,002
)
Changes in credit borrowings - net
14,858
80,041
Common stock dividends and distributions
(85,610
)
(139,000
)
Other
(28
)
(26
)
Net cash flow used in financing activities
(120,783
)
(80,987
)
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
(100,896
)
(39,499
)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
245,863
230,661
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$144,967
$191,162
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
Cash paid during the period for:
Interest - net of amount capitalized
$26,251
$27,087
Income taxes
$—
$3,402
See Notes to Financial Statements.
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Table of Contents
SYSTEM ENERGY RESOURCES, INC.
BALANCE SHEETS
ASSETS
September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
CURRENT ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents:
Cash
$47
$786
Temporary cash investments
144,920
245,077
Total cash and cash equivalents
144,967
245,863
Accounts receivable:
Associated companies
284,724
104,390
Other
4,814
3,637
Total accounts receivable
289,538
108,027
Materials and supplies - at average cost
86,719
82,469
Deferred nuclear refueling outage costs
11,713
24,729
Prepaid taxes
12,926
15,882
Prepayments and other
14,450
4,229
TOTAL
560,313
481,199
OTHER PROPERTY AND INVESTMENTS
Decommissioning trust funds
870,610
780,496
TOTAL
870,610
780,496
UTILITY PLANT
Electric
4,308,864
4,331,668
Property under capital lease
585,084
585,084
Construction work in progress
80,343
43,888
Nuclear fuel
188,956
259,635
TOTAL UTILITY PLANT
5,163,247
5,220,275
Less - accumulated depreciation and amortization
3,155,691
3,063,249
UTILITY PLANT - NET
2,007,556
2,157,026
DEFERRED DEBITS AND OTHER ASSETS
Regulatory assets:
Regulatory asset for income taxes - net
86,515
93,127
Other regulatory assets
416,628
411,212
Other
4,421
4,652
TOTAL
507,564
508,991
TOTAL ASSETS
$3,946,043
$3,927,712
See Notes to Financial Statements.
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SYSTEM ENERGY RESOURCES, INC.
BALANCE SHEETS
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
2017
2016
(In Thousands)
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Currently maturing long-term debt
$4
$50,003
Short-term borrowings
31,751
66,893
Accounts payable:
Associated companies
10,325
5,843
Other
44,958
50,558
Interest accrued
14,450
14,049
Other
2,958
2,957
TOTAL
104,446
190,303
NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES
Accumulated deferred income taxes and taxes accrued
1,147,913
1,112,865
Accumulated deferred investment tax credits
39,726
41,663
Other regulatory liabilities
424,381
370,862
Decommissioning
853,291
854,202
Pension and other postretirement liabilities
103,185
117,850
Long-term debt
551,387
501,129
Other
8,221
15
TOTAL
3,128,104
2,998,586
Commitments and Contingencies
COMMON EQUITY
Common stock, no par value, authorized 1,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding 789,350 shares in 2017 and 2016
679,350
679,350
Retained earnings
34,143
59,473
TOTAL
713,493
738,823
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
$3,946,043
$3,927,712
See Notes to Financial Statements.
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SYSTEM ENERGY RESOURCES, INC.
STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN COMMON EQUITY
For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 and 2016
(Unaudited)
Common Equity
Common
Stock
Retained
Earnings
Total
(In Thousands)
Balance at December 31, 2015
$719,350
$61,729
$781,079
Net income
—
73,418
73,418
Common stock dividends and distributions
(40,000
)
(99,000
)
(139,000
)
Balance at September 30, 2016
$679,350
$36,147
$715,497
Balance at December 31, 2016
$679,350
$59,473
$738,823
Net income
—
60,280
60,280
Common stock dividends
—
(85,610
)
(85,610
)
Balance at September 30, 2017
$679,350
$34,143
$713,493
See Notes to Financial Statements.
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ENTERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1. Legal Proceedings
See “
PART I, Item 1,
Litigation
” in the Form 10-K for a discussion of legal, administrative, and other regulatory proceedings affecting Entergy. Also see Note 1 and Note 2 to the financial statements herein and “
Item 5, Other Information,
Environmental Regulation
” below for updates regarding environmental proceedings and regulation.
Item 1A. Risk Factors
There have been no material changes to the risk factors discussed in “
PART I, Item 1A,
Risk Factors”
in the Form 10-K.
Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities (a)
Period
Total Number of
Shares Purchased
Average Price Paid
per Share
Total Number of
Shares Purchased
as Part of a
Publicly
Announced Plan
Maximum $
Amount
of Shares that May
Yet be Purchased
Under a Plan (b)
7/01/2017-7/31/2017
—
$—
—
$350,052,918
8/01/2017-8/31/2017
—
$—
—
$350,052,918
9/01/2017-9/30/2017
—
$—
—
$350,052,918
Total
—
$—
—
In accordance with Entergy’s stock-based compensation plans, Entergy periodically grants stock options to key employees, which may be exercised to obtain shares of Entergy’s common stock. According to the plans, these shares can be newly issued shares, treasury stock, or shares purchased on the open market. Entergy’s management has been authorized by the Board to repurchase on the open market shares up to an amount sufficient to fund the exercise of grants under the plans. In addition to this authority, the Board has authorized share repurchase programs to enable opportunistic purchases in response to market conditions. In October 2010 the Board granted authority for a $500 million share repurchase program. The amount of share repurchases under these programs may vary as a result of material changes in business results or capital spending or new investment opportunities. In addition, in the first quarter 2017, Entergy withheld 1,054 shares of its common stock at $70.58 per share, 122,148 shares of its common stock at $70.61 per share, and 31,243 shares of its common stock at $71.89 per share to pay income taxes due upon vesting of restricted stock granted and payout of performance units as part of its long-term incentive program.
(a)
See Note 12 to the financial statements in the Form 10-K for additional discussion of the stock-based compensation plans.
(b)
Maximum amount of shares that may yet be repurchased relates only to the $500 million plan and does not include an estimate of the amount of shares that may be purchased to fund the exercise of grants under the stock-based compensation plans.
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Item 5. Other Information
Regulation of the Nuclear Power Industry
Following are updates to the
Regulation of the Nuclear Power Industry
section of Part I, Item 1 of the Form 10-K.
Nuclear Waste Policy Act of 1982
Nuclear Plant Decommissioning
See the discussion in Part I, Item 1 in the Form 10-K for information regarding decommissioning funding for the nuclear plants. Following are updates to that discussion.
In March 2017 filings with the NRC were made for certain Entergy subsidiaries’ nuclear plants reporting on decommissioning funding. Those reports showed that decommissioning funding for each of those nuclear plants met the NRC’s financial assurance requirements.
In March 2017, Entergy sold the FitzPatrick plant to Exelon, and as part of the transaction, the FitzPatrick decommissioning trust fund, along with the decommissioning obligation for that plant, was transferred to Exelon. The FitzPatrick spent fuel disposal contract was assigned to Exelon as part of the transaction.
Environmental Regulation
Following are updates to the
Environmental Regulation
section of Part I, Item 1 of the Form 10-K.
Clean Air Act and Subsequent Amendments
Regional Haze
In June 2005 the EPA issued its final Clean Air Visibility Rule (CAVR) regulations that potentially could result in a requirement to install SO
2
and NO
x
pollution control technology as Best Available Retrofit Control Technology (BART) to continue operating certain of Entergy’s fossil generation units. The rule leaves certain CAVR determinations to the states.
In Arkansas, the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality prepared a state implementation plan (SIP) for Arkansas facilities to implement its obligations under the CAVR. In April 2012 the EPA finalized a decision addressing the Arkansas Regional Haze SIP, in which it disapproved a large portion of the Arkansas Regional Haze SIP, including the emission limits for NO
x
and SO
2
at White Bluff. By Court order, the EPA had to issue a final federal implementation plan (FIP) for Arkansas Regional Haze by no later than August 31, 2016. In April 2015 the EPA published a proposed FIP for Arkansas, taking comment on requiring installation of scrubbers and low NO
x
burners to continue operating both units at the White Bluff plant and both units at the Independence plant and NO
x
controls to continue operating the Lake Catherine plant. Entergy filed comments by the deadline in August 2015. Among other comments, including opposition to the EPA’s proposed controls on the Independence units, Entergy proposed to meet more stringent SO
2
and NO
x
limits at both White Bluff and Independence within three years of the effective date of the final FIP and to cease the use of coal at the White Bluff units at a later date.
In September 2016 the EPA published the final Arkansas Regional Haze FIP. In most respects, the EPA finalized its original proposal but shortened the time for compliance for installation of the NO
x
controls. The FIP requires an emission limitation consistent with SO
2
scrubbers at both White Bluff and Independence by October 2021 and NO
x
controls by April 2018. The EPA declined to adopt Entergy’s proposals related to ceasing coal use as an alternative to SO
2
scrubbers for White Bluff SO
2
BART. For some or all of the FIP, Entergy anticipates that Arkansas will submit a SIP to replace the FIP. In November 2016, Entergy and other interested parties, such as the State of Arkansas, filed
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petitions for administrative reconsideration and stay at the EPA as well as petitions for judicial review to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit. In February 2017, Entergy, the State of Arkansas, and other parties requested the Court to judicially stay the FIP. In March 2017 the EPA granted in part the petitions for reconsideration and stated its intent to stay the FIP compliance deadlines by at least 90 days. Subsequently, the EPA granted a 90 day stay of the FIP effective dates and the EPA now has proposed approval of (i) an extension of these NO
x
limit deadlines to January 2020 and (ii) a state implementation for NO
x
controls that allows compliance with the provisions of the Cross-State Air Pollution Rule to satisfy the NO
x
regional haze provisions for White Bluff, Independence, and Lake Catherine. Arkansas published a proposed replacement state plan in October 2017. This plan is under review, and comments are due to the state in January 2018. The Eighth Circuit granted the government’s motion to hold the appeal litigation in abeyance and has directed the parties to file status reports in December 2017.
In Louisiana, Entergy is working with the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (LDEQ) and the EPA to revise the Louisiana SIP for regional haze, which was disapproved in part in 2012. The LDEQ submitted a revised SIP in February 2017. In May 2017 the EPA proposed to approve a majority of the revisions. In September 2017 the EPA issued a proposed SIP approval for the Nelson plant, requiring an emission limitation consistent with the use of low-sulfur coal, with a compliance date three years from the effective date of the final EPA approval. The EPA’s final approval decision is expected in the fourth quarter 2017. Entergy continues to monitor the submission and to file comments in the process as appropriate.
New and Existing Source Performance Standards for Greenhouse Gas Emissions
As a part of a climate plan announced in June 2013, the EPA was directed to (i) reissue proposed carbon pollution standards for new power plants by September 20, 2013, with finalization of the rules to occur in a timely manner; (ii) issue proposed carbon pollution standards, regulations, or guidelines, as appropriate, for modified, reconstructed, and existing power plants no later than June 1, 2014; (iii) finalize those rules by no later than June 1, 2015; and (iv) include in the guidelines addressing existing power plants a requirement that states submit to the EPA the implementation plans required under Section 111(d) of the Clean Air Act and its implementing regulations by no later than June 30, 2016. In January 2014 the EPA issued the proposed New Source Performance Standards rule for new sources. In June 2014 the EPA issued proposed standards for existing power plants. Entergy has been actively engaged in the rulemaking process, having submitted comments to the EPA in December 2014. The EPA issued the final rules for both new and existing sources in August 2015, and they were published in the Federal Register in October 2015. The existing source rule, also called the Clean Power Plan, requires states to develop plans for compliance with the EPA’s emission standards. In February 2016 the U.S. Supreme Court issued a stay halting the effectiveness of the rule until the rule is reviewed by the D.C. Circuit and by the U.S. Supreme Court, if further review is granted. In March 2017 the current administration issued an executive order entitled “Promoting Energy Independence and Economic Growth” instructing the EPA to review and then to suspend, revise, or rescind the Clean Power Plan, if appropriate. The EPA subsequently asked the D.C. Circuit to hold the challenges to the Clean Power Plan and the greenhouse gas new source performance standards in abeyance and signed a notice of withdrawal of the proposed federal plan, model trading rules, and the Clean Energy Incentive Program. The court placed the litigation in abeyance in April 2017. The EPA Administrator also sent a letter to the affected governors explaining that states are not currently required to meet Clean Power Plan deadlines, some of which have passed. In October 2017 the EPA announced a proposed rule that would repeal the Clean Power Plan on the grounds that it exceeds the EPA’s statutory authority under the Clean Air Act. The EPA also asked the D.C. Circuit to continue to hold the litigation over the Clean Power Plan in abeyance “pending the conclusion of rulemaking” and stated to the court that the agency intends to issue “in the near future” an advance notice of proposed rulemaking seeking comments on replacing the Clean Power Plan. Also in October 2017, the EPA submitted its draft advance notice of proposed rulemaking to the Office of Management and Budget for review, which typically takes 60-90 days.
Clean Water Act
The 1972 amendments to the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (known as the Clean Water Act) provide the statutory basis for the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit program and the basic structure for regulating the discharge of pollutants from point sources to waters of the United States. The Clean Water Act requires virtually all discharges of pollutants to waters of the United States to be permitted. Section 316(b) of the
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Clean Water Act regulates cooling water intake structures, section 401 of the Clean Water Act requires a water quality certification from the state in support of certain federal actions and approvals, and section 404 regulates the dredge and fill of waters of the United States, including jurisdictional wetlands.
NPDES Permits and Section 401 Water Quality Certifications
NPDES permits are subject to renewal every five years. Consequently, Entergy is currently in various stages of the data evaluation and discharge permitting process for its power plants.
For thirteen years, Entergy participated in an administrative permitting process with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) for renewal of the Indian Point 2 and Indian Point 3 discharge permit. That proceeding recently was settled, along with other ongoing proceedings. In May 2017 a plaintiff filed two parallel state court appeals challenging New York State’s actions in signing and implementing the Indian Point settlement with Entergy on the basis that the State failed to perform sufficient environmental analysis of its actions. All signatories to the settlement agreement, including the Entergy affiliates that hold NRC licenses for Indian Point, were named. For a discussion of the recent Indian Point settlement, see “
Entergy Wholesale Commodities Authorization to Operate Its Nuclear Power Plants
” in Entergy Corporation and Subsidiaries Management’s Financial Discussion and Analysis.
316(b) Cooling Water Intake Structures
The EPA finalized regulations in July 2004 governing the intake of water at large existing power plants employing cooling water intake structures. The rule sought to reduce perceived impacts on aquatic resources by requiring covered facilities to implement technology or other measures to meet EPA-targeted reductions in water use and corresponding perceived aquatic impacts. Entergy, other industry members and industry groups, environmental groups, and a coalition of northeastern and mid-Atlantic states challenged various aspects of the rule. After litigation, in May 2014, the EPA issued a new final 316(b) rule, followed by publication in the Federal Register in August 2014, with the final rule effective in October 2014. Entergy is developing a compliance plan for each affected facility in accordance with the requirements of the final rule.
Entergy filed a petition for review of the final rule as a co-petitioner with the Utility Water Act Group. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit heard oral argument in September 2017. No decision is expected before the first quarter 2018.
Federal Jurisdiction of Waters of the United States
In September 2013 the EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced the intention to propose a rule to clarify federal Clean Water Act jurisdiction over waters of the United States. The announcement was made in conjunction with the EPA’s release of a draft scientific report on the “connectivity” of waters that the agency said would inform the rulemaking. This report was finalized in January 2015. The final rule was published in the Federal Register in June 2015. The rule could significantly increase the number and types of waters included in the EPA’s and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ jurisdiction, which in turn could pose additional permitting and pollutant management burdens on Entergy’s operations. The final rule has been challenged in federal court by several parties, including most states. In August 2015 the District Court for North Dakota issued a preliminary injunction staying the new rule in 13 states. In October 2015 the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit issued a nationwide stay of the rule. Entergy will continue to monitor this rulemaking and ensure compliance with existing permitting processes. In response to the stay, the EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers resumed nationwide use of the agencies’ regulations as they existed prior to August 27, 2015. In February 2017 the current administration issued an executive order instructing the EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to review the Waters of the United States rule and to revise or rescind, as appropriate. In June 2017 the EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers released a proposed rule that rescinds the June 2015 rule and recodifies the definition of “waters of the U.S.” that was in effect prior to the 2015 rule. The administration is expected to propose a definition of “waters of the U.S.” at a later date.
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Coal Combustion Residuals
See the Form 10-K for discussion of the coal combustion residuals rule (CCR rule) and the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act (WIIN Act). In September 2017 the EPA agreed to reconsider certain provisions of the CCR rule in light of the WIIN Act. The EPA has not yet initiated a new round of rulemaking and has not extended the existing mid-October 2017 groundwater monitoring deadline. Entergy met the existing monitoring deadline, is monitoring state agency actions, and will participate in the regulatory development process.
Other Environmental Matters
Entergy Louisiana and Entergy Texas
Several class action and other lawsuits have been filed in state and federal courts seeking relief from Entergy Gulf States, Inc. and others for damages caused by the disposal of hazardous waste and for asbestos-related disease allegedly resulting from exposure on Entergy Gulf States, Inc.’s premises.
Entergy Louisiana, as successor in interest to Entergy Gulf States Louisiana, currently is involved in the second phase of the remedial investigation of the Lake Charles Service Center site, located in Lake Charles, Louisiana. A manufactured gas plant (MGP) is believed to have operated at this site from approximately 1916 to 1931. Coal tar, a by-product of the distillation process employed at MGPs, apparently was routed to a portion of the property for disposal. The same area also has been used as a landfill. In 1999, Entergy Gulf States, Inc. signed a second administrative consent order with the EPA to perform a removal action at the site. In 2002 approximately 7,400 tons of contaminated soil and debris were excavated and disposed of from an area within the service center. In 2003 a cap was constructed over the remedial area to prevent the migration of contamination to the surface. In August 2005 an administrative order was issued by the EPA requiring that a 10-year groundwater study be conducted at this site. The groundwater monitoring study commenced in January 2006 and is continuing. The EPA released the second Five Year Review in 2015. The EPA indicated that the current remediation technique was insufficient and that Entergy would need to utilize other remediation technologies on the site. In July 2015, Entergy submitted a Focused Feasibility Study to the EPA outlining the potential remedies and suggesting installation of a waterloo barrier. The estimated cost for this remedy is approximately $2 million. Entergy is awaiting comments and direction from the EPA on the Focused Feasibility Study and potential remedy selection. In early 2017 the EPA indicated that the new remedial method, a waterloo barrier, may not be necessary and requested revisions to the Focused Feasibility Study. The EPA plans to provide comments on the revised 2017 Focused Feasibility Study in the next Five Year Review in 2020. Entergy is continuing discussions with the EPA regarding the ongoing actions at the site.
Earnings Ratios
(Entergy Arkansas, Entergy Louisiana, Entergy Mississippi, Entergy New Orleans, Entergy Texas, and System Energy)
The Registrant Subsidiaries have calculated ratios of earnings to fixed charges and ratios of earnings to combined fixed charges and preferred dividends/distributions pursuant to Item 503 of Regulation S-K of the SEC as follows:
Ratios of Earnings to Fixed Charges
Twelve Months Ended
Nine Months Ended
December 31,
September 30,
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
Entergy Arkansas
3.79
3.62
3.08
2.04
3.32
3.70
Entergy Louisiana
2.61
3.30
3.44
3.36
3.57
3.86
Entergy Mississippi
2.79
3.19
3.23
3.59
3.96
4.82
Entergy New Orleans
2.91
1.85
3.55
4.90
4.61
5.17
Entergy Texas
1.76
1.94
2.39
2.22
2.92
2.66
System Energy
5.12
5.66
4.04
4.53
5.39
4.99
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Ratios of Earnings to Combined Fixed Charges
and Preferred Dividends/Distributions
Twelve Months Ended
Nine Months Ended
December 31,
September 30,
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
Entergy Arkansas
3.36
3.25
2.76
1.85
3.09
3.62
Entergy Louisiana
2.47
3.14
3.28
3.24
3.57
3.86
Entergy Mississippi
2.59
2.97
3.00
3.34
3.71
4.68
Entergy New Orleans
2.63
1.70
3.26
4.50
4.30
4.83
The Registrant Subsidiaries accrue interest expense related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense and do not include it in fixed charges.
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Item 6. Exhibits
*4(a) -
Extension Agreement, dated as of August 7, 2017, to Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of August 14, 2015, as amended, among Entergy Corporation, as the Borrower, the banks and other financial institutions party thereto as Lenders, Citibank, N.A., as Administrative Agent and as an LC Issuing Bank, and the other LC Issuing Banks party thereto.
*4(b) -
Amendment, dated as of October 17, 2017, to Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of August 14, 2015, as amended, among Entergy Corporation, as the Borrower, the banks and other financial institutions party thereto as Lenders, Citibank, N.A., as Administrative Agent and as an LC Issuing Bank, and the other LC Issuing Banks party thereto.
*4(c) -
Agreement, dated as of October 17, 2017, pursuant to Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of August 14, 2015, as amended, among Entergy Corporation, as the Borrower, the banks and other financial institutions party thereto as Lenders, Citibank, N.A., as Administrative Agent and as an LC Issuing Bank, and the other LC Issuing Banks party thereto.
*4(d) -
Extension Agreement, dated as of August 7, 2017, to Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of August 14, 2015, as amended, among Entergy Arkansas, Inc., as the Borrower, the banks and other financial institutions party thereto as Lenders, Citibank, N.A., as Administrative Agent and as an LC Issuing Bank, and the other LC Issuing Banks party thereto.
*4(e) -
Amendment, dated as of October 17, 2017, to Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of August 14, 2015, as amended, among Entergy Arkansas, Inc., as the Borrower, the banks and other financial institutions party thereto as Lenders, Citibank, N.A., as Administrative Agent and as an LC Issuing Bank, and the other LC Issuing Banks party thereto.
*4(f) -
Agreement, dated as of October 17, 2017, pursuant to Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of August 14, 2015, as amended, among Entergy Arkansas, Inc., as the Borrower, the banks and other financial institutions party thereto as Lenders, Citibank, N.A., as Administrative Agent and as an LC Issuing Bank, and the other LC Issuing Banks party thereto.
*4(g) -
Extension Agreement, dated as of August 7, 2017, to Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of August 14, 2015, as amended, among Entergy Louisiana, LLC, as the Borrower, the banks and other financial institutions party thereto as Lenders, Citibank, N.A., as Administrative Agent and as an LC Issuing Bank, and the other LC Issuing Banks party thereto.
*4(h) -
Amendment, dated as of October 17, 2017, to Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of August 14, 2015, as amended, among Entergy Louisiana, LLC, as the Borrower, the banks and other financial institutions party thereto as Lenders, Citibank, N.A., as Administrative Agent and as an LC Issuing Bank, and the other LC Issuing Banks party thereto.
*4(i) -
Agreement, dated as of October 17, 2017, pursuant to Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of August 14, 2015, as amended, among Entergy Louisiana, LLC, as the Borrower, the banks and other financial institutions party thereto as Lenders, Citibank, N.A., as Administrative Agent and as an LC Issuing Bank, and the other LC Issuing Banks party thereto.
*4(j) -
Amendment, dated as of September 26, 2017, to Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of June 30, 2016, as amended, among Entergy New Orleans, as the Borrower, the banks and other financial institutions party thereto as Lenders, and Bank of America, N.A., as Administrative Agent.
*4(k) -
Extension Agreement, dated as of August 7, 2017, to Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of August 14, 2015, as amended, among Entergy Texas, Inc., as the Borrower, the banks and other financial institutions party thereto as Lenders, Citibank, N.A., as Administrative Agent and as an LC Issuing Bank, and the other LC Issuing Banks party thereto.
*4(l) -
Amendment, dated as of October 17, 2017, to Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of August 14, 2015, as amended, among Entergy Texas, Inc., as the Borrower, the banks and other financial institutions party thereto as Lenders, Citibank, N.A., as Administrative Agent and as an LC Issuing Bank, and the other LC Issuing Banks party thereto.
*4(m) -
Amendment, dated as of October 17, 2017, pursuant to Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of August 14, 2015, as amended, among Entergy Texas, Inc., as the Borrower, the banks and other financial institutions party thereto as Lenders, Citibank, N.A., as Administrative Agent and as an LC Issuing Bank, and the other LC Issuing Banks party thereto.
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*12(a) -
Entergy Arkansas’s Computation of Ratios of Earnings to Fixed Charges and of Earnings to Combined Fixed Charges and Preferred Dividends, as defined.
*12(b) -
Entergy Louisiana’s Computation of Ratios of Earnings to Fixed Charges and of Earnings to Combined Fixed Charges and Preferred Distributions, as defined.
*12(c) -
Entergy Mississippi’s Computation of Ratios of Earnings to Fixed Charges and of Earnings to Combined Fixed Charges and Preferred Dividends, as defined.
*12(d) -
Entergy New Orleans’s Computation of Ratios of Earnings to Fixed Charges and of Earnings to Combined Fixed Charges and Preferred Dividends, as defined.
*12(e) -
Entergy Texas’s Computation of Ratios of Earnings to Fixed Charges, as defined.
*12(f) -
System Energy’s Computation of Ratios of Earnings to Fixed Charges, as defined.
*31(a) -
Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification for Entergy Corporation.
*31(b) -
Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification for Entergy Corporation.
*31(c) -
Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification for Entergy Arkansas.
*31(d) -
Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification for Entergy Arkansas.
*31(e) -
Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification for Entergy Louisiana.
*31(f) -
Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification for Entergy Louisiana.
*31(g) -
Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification for Entergy Mississippi.
*31(h) -
Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification for Entergy Mississippi.
*31(i) -
Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification for Entergy New Orleans.
*31(j) -
Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification for Entergy New Orleans.
*31(k) -
Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification for Entergy Texas.
*31(l) -
Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification for Entergy Texas.
*31(m) -
Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification for System Energy.
*31(n) -
Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification for System Energy.
*32(a) -
Section 1350 Certification for Entergy Corporation.
*32(b) -
Section 1350 Certification for Entergy Corporation.
*32(c) -
Section 1350 Certification for Entergy Arkansas.
*32(d) -
Section 1350 Certification for Entergy Arkansas.
*32(e) -
Section 1350 Certification for Entergy Louisiana.
*32(f) -
Section 1350 Certification for Entergy Louisiana.
*32(g) -
Section 1350 Certification for Entergy Mississippi.
*32(h) -
Section 1350 Certification for Entergy Mississippi.
*32(i) -
Section 1350 Certification for Entergy New Orleans.
*32(j) -
Section 1350 Certification for Entergy New Orleans.
*32(k) -
Section 1350 Certification for Entergy Texas.
*32(l) -
Section 1350 Certification for Entergy Texas.
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*32(m) -
Section 1350 Certification for System Energy.
*32(n) -
Section 1350 Certification for System Energy.
*101 INS -
XBRL Instance Document.
*101 SCH -
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.
*101 PRE -
XBRL Taxonomy Presentation Linkbase Document.
*101 LAB -
XBRL Taxonomy Label Linkbase Document.
*101 CAL -
XBRL Taxonomy Calculation Linkbase Document.
*101 DEF -
XBRL Definition Linkbase Document.
___________________________
Pursuant to Item 601(b)(4)(iii) of Regulation S-K, Entergy Corporation agrees to furnish to the Commission upon request any instrument with respect to long-term debt that is not registered or listed herein as an Exhibit because the total amount of securities authorized under such agreement does not exceed ten percent of the total assets of Entergy Corporation and its subsidiaries on a consolidated basis.
*
Filed herewith.
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SIGNATURE
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, each registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized. The signature for each undersigned company shall be deemed to relate only to matters having reference to such company or its subsidiaries.
ENTERGY CORPORATION
ENTERGY ARKANSAS, INC.
ENTERGY LOUISIANA, LLC
ENTERGY MISSISSIPPI, INC.
ENTERGY NEW ORLEANS, INC.
ENTERGY TEXAS, INC.
SYSTEM ENERGY RESOURCES, INC.
/s/ Alyson M. Mount
Alyson M. Mount
Senior Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer
(For each Registrant and for each as
Principal Accounting Officer)
Date:
November 3, 2017
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