NiSource
NI
#1117
Rank
$20.95 B
Marketcap
$44.29
Share price
-0.81%
Change (1 day)
21.28%
Change (1 year)
NiSource Inc. is an American utility company, serving approximately 3.5 million natural gas customers and 500,000 electric customers across seven states through its local Columbia Gas and NIPSCO brands.

NiSource - 10-Q quarterly report FY


Text size:
1



UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, DC 20549

FORM 10-Q
[X] QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the Quarterly period ended JUNE 30, 2001
-------------

[ ] 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 001-16189
---------

NISOURCE INC.
-------------
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)


Delaware 35-2108964
---------------------------------------------------------------
(State or other jurisdiction of (IRS Employer
incorporation or organization) Identification No.)


801 East 86th Avenue, Merrillville, IN 46410
---------------------------------------------------------
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)



Registrant's telephone number, including area code (877) 647-5990
--------------


Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports
required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the
registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to
such filing requirements for the past 90 days.[X]

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes of
common stock, as of the latest practicable date: Common Stock, $0.01 Par
Value: 206,738,447 shares outstanding at June 30, 2001.
2




NISOURCE INC.
FORM 10-Q QUARTERLY REPORT
FOR THE QUARTER ENDED JUNE 30, 2001

TABLE OF CONTENTS


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Page
----
PART I FINANCIAL INFORMATION
- ------ ---------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Item 1. Financial Statements

Statements of Consolidated Income.......................... 3

Consolidated Balance Sheets................................ 4

Statements of Consolidated Cash Flows...................... 6

Statements of Consolidated Common Shareholder's Equity..... 7

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements................. 8

Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations...................... 17

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk. 36

PART II OTHER INFORMATION
- ------ -----------------

Item 1. Legal Proceedings.......................................... 37

Item 2. Changes in Securities and Use of Proceeds.................. 39

Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities............................ 39

Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders........ 39

Item 5. Other Information.......................................... 39

Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K........................... 39

Signature.......................................................... 40
</TABLE>

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PART I

ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NISOURCE INC.
STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED INCOME (unaudited)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three Months Six Months
Ended June 30, Ended June 30,
---------------------------- ----------------------
(in millions) 2001 2000 2001 2000
======================================================================================================================
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NET REVENUES
Gas Distribution $ 754.3 $ 201.5 $2,797.8 $ 644.5
Gas Transmission and Storage 140.8 30.7 311.2 45.8
Electric 246.0 241.1 492.8 483.0
Exploration and Production 21.7 - 69.9 -
Merchant Operations 650.0 474.7 1,875.7 834.1
Other 62.0 55.1 125.5 102.0
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gross Revenues 1,874.8 1,003.1 5,672.9 2,109.4
Cost of Sales 1,163.1 679.5 3,863.4 1,360.8
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Net Revenues 711.7 323.6 1,809.5 748.6
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OPERATING EXPENSES
Operation and maintenance 338.1 141.9 704.6 286.4
Depreciation, depletion and amortization 155.0 80.2 316.1 160.2
Other taxes 61.4 18.3 159.3 44.1
Impairment of telecommunication assets 9.2 - 9.2 -
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Operating Expenses 563.7 240.4 1,189.2 490.7
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OPERATING INCOME 148.0 83.2 620.3 257.9
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OTHER INCOME (DEDUCTIONS)
Interest expense, net (149.3) (45.3) (312.6) (89.8)
Minority interest (5.1) (5.0) (10.2) (10.0)
Dividend requirements on preferred stock of subsidiaries (1.9) (2.0) (3.8) (4.0)
Other, net 6.8 1.5 11.4 3.9
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Other Income (Deductions) (149.5) (50.8) (315.2) (99.9)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
INCOME (LOSS) FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS
BEFORE INCOME TAXES (1.5) 32.4 305.1 158.0
INCOME TAXES 4.8 11.0 127.2 57.5
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
INCOME (LOSS) FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS (6.3) 21.4 177.9 100.5
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations - net of taxes (1.7) 2.0 (1.1) 2.5
Change in Accounting- net of taxes - - 4.0 -
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET INCOME (LOSS) $ (8.0) $ 23.4 $ 180.8 $ 103.0
=====================================================================================================================



BASIC EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE ($)
Continuing operations (0.03) 0.18 0.87 0.82
Discontinued operations (0.01) 0.01 (0.01) 0.02
Change in accounting - - 0.02 -
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BASIC EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE (0.04) 0.19 0.88 0.84
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


DILUTED EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE ($)
Continuing operations (0.03) 0.17 0.85 0.79
Discontinued operations (0.01) 0.01 (0.01) 0.02
Change in accounting - - 0.02 -
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DILUTED EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE (0.04) 0.18 0.86 0.81
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------



BASIC AVERAGE COMMON SHARES OUTSTANDING (MILLIONS) 205.3 120.6 205.2 122.2
DILUTED AVERAGE COMMON SHARES (MILLIONS) 205.3 124.7 209.7 126.4
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>




The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral
part of these statements.


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ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

NISOURCE INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
JUNE 30, December 31,
(in millions) 2001 2000
=========================================================================================================
(unaudited)
<S> <C> <C>
ASSETS
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
Utility Plant $ 15,863.7 $ 15,825.3
Accumulated depreciation and amortization (7,507.7) (7,299.4)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net utility plant 8,356.0 8,525.9
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gas and oil producing properties, full cost method
United States cost center 961.1 923.6
Canadian cost center 21.6 19.7
Accumulated depletion (36.8) (9.1)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net gas and oil producing properties 945.9 934.2
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Other property, at cost, less accumulated depreciation 83.2 86.6
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net Property, Plant and Equipment 9,385.1 9,546.7
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


INVESTMENTS AND OTHER ASSETS
Net assets of discontinued operations 588.5 560.4
Unconsolidated affiliates 103.7 96.1
Assets held for sale 100.3 33.5
Other investments 49.7 54.1
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Investments 842.2 744.1
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


CURRENT ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents 142.7 193.0
Accounts receivable (less reserve of $53.1 and $43.3, respectively) 930.9 1,490.2
Other receivables 30.7 23.5
Gas inventory 186.1 322.5
Underrecovered gas and fuel costs 74.4 396.1
Materials and supplies, at average cost 71.6 68.7
Electric production fuel, at average cost 33.2 15.6
Price risk management assets 479.9 1,568.5
Exchange gas receivable 528.0 615.9
Prepayments and other 292.3 223.6
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Current Assets 2,769.8 4,917.6
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


OTHER ASSETS
Regulatory assets 522.5 517.1
Intangible assets, less accumulated amortization 3,673.1 3,603.6
Deferred charges and other 502.5 367.7
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Other Assets 4,698.1 4,488.4
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL ASSETS $ 17,695.2 $ 19,696.8
=========================================================================================================
</TABLE>

The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral
part of these statements.

4
5
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

NISOURCE INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
JUNE 30, December 31,
(in millions) 2001 2000
===============================================================================================
(unaudited)
<S> <C> <C>
CAPITALIZATION AND LIABILITIES
CAPITALIZATION
Common Stock Equity $ 3,499.5 $ 3,415.2
Preferred Stocks--
Subsidiary Companies
Series without mandatory redemption provisions 83.6 83.6
Series with mandatory redemption provisions 48.9 49.1
Company-obligated mandatorily redeemable preferred securities
of subsidiary trust holding solely Company debentures 345.0 345.0
Long-term debt, excluding amounts due within one year 6,125.8 5,802.7
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Capitalization 10,102.8 9,695.6
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

CURRENT LIABILITIES
Current portion of long-term debt 97.5 64.8
Short term borrowings 1,937.1 2,496.7
Accounts payable 492.0 1,117.1
Dividends declared on common and preferred stocks 60.8 1.0
Customer deposits 34.4 32.1
Taxes accrued 195.2 189.3
Interest accrued 69.8 78.0
Overrecovered gas and fuel costs 119.3 -
Price risk management liabilities 352.8 1,529.2
Exchange gas payable 261.6 360.5
Current deferred revenue 278.9 451.5
Other accruals 476.1 573.2
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Current Liabilities 4,375.5 6,893.4
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

OTHER LIABILITIES AND DEFERRED CREDITS
Deferred income taxes 1,847.1 1,806.2
Deferred investment tax credits 109.8 114.3
Deferred credits 386.2 337.3
Noncurrent deferred revenue 493.0 498.0
Accrued liability for postretirement benefits 275.6 272.5
Other noncurrent liabilities 105.2 79.5
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Other 3,216.9 3,107.8
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES - -
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL CAPITALIZATION AND LIABILITIES $ 17,695.2 $ 19,696.8
===============================================================================================
</TABLE>


The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part
of these statements.

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ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

NISOURCE INC.
STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOWS (unaudited)


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Six Months
Ended June 30,
-----------------------
(in millions) 2001 2000
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net income $ 180.8 $ 103.0
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash from
continuing operations:
Depreciation, depletion, and amortization 316.1 160.2
Net changes in price risk management activities (2.7) (11.0)
Asset impairment 9.2 -
Deferred income taxes (99.4) (39.1)
Deferred revenue (177.6) -
Income from change in accounting (4.0) -
Income from discontinued operations 1.1 (2.5)
Other, net (9.5) 11.1
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
214.0 221.7
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Changes in components of working capital, net of effect
from acquisitions of businesses:
Accounts receivable, net 558.0 (51.8)
Inventories 115.9 (27.2)
Accounts payable (636.1) 80.7
Taxes accrued 70.7 (1.0)
(Under) Overrecovered gas and fuel costs 441.0 44.8
Exchange gas receivable/payable (11.0) -
Other accruals (60.2) 3.3
Other working capital (160.1) (48.6)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net Cash from Continuing Operations 532.2 221.9
Net Cash from Discontinued Operations - -
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net Cash from Operating Activities 532.2 221.9
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Capital expenditures (195.5) (100.3)
Proceeds from disposition of assets - -
Other investing activities, net 15.3 (10.2)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net Investing Activities (180.2) (110.5)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Issuance of long-term debt 300.0 -
Retirement of long-term debt (36.9) (158.6)
Change in short-term debt (559.6) 182.0
Retirement of preferred shares (0.3) (1.5)
Issuance of common stock 13.5 5.6
Acquisition of treasury stock - (65.8)
Dividends paid - common shares (120.2) (66.0)
Other financing activities, net - 0.2
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net Financing Activities (403.5) (104.1)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents (51.5) 7.3
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 193.0 41.4
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF PERIOD $ 141.5 $ 48.7
=================================================================================================

SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION
Cash paid for interest, net of amounts capitalized 320.9 96.7
Cash paid for income taxes 138.0 99.0
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral
part of these statements.


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ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

NISOURCE INC.
STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED SHAREHOLDER'S EQUITY (unaudited)


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
ADDITIONAL ACCUM.
COMMON TREASURY PAID-IN RETAINED OTHER COMP. COMP.
(DOLLARS IN MILLIONS) SHARES SHARES CAPITAL EARNINGS OTHER INCOME TOTAL INCOME
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
BALANCE JANUARY 1, 2000 870.9 (472.5) 174.4 774.4 1.1 5.2 1,353.5
Comprehensive Income:
Net Income 103.0 103.0 103.0
Other comprehensive income, net of tax:
Gain/loss on available for sale securities:
Unrealized (0.3) (0.3) (0.3)
Realized 0.3 0.3 0.3
Gain/loss on foreign currency translation:
Unrealized 0.4 0.4 0.4
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total comprehensive income 103.4
Dividends:
Common shares (65.6) (65.6)
Treasury shares acquired (65.8) (65.8)
Issued:
Employee stock purchase plan 0.3 0.4 0.7
Long-term incentive plan 19.4 (14.0) 1.5
Amortization of unearned compensation 2.4 2.4
Equity contract costs (2.0) (2.0)
Other 0.8 (2.3) (1.5)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BALANCE JUNE 30, 2000 870.9 (518.6) 173.6 809.5 (10.5) 5.6 1,330.5
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BALANCE JANUARY 1, 2001 2.0 - 2,585.1 829.8 (6.1) 4.4 3,415.2
Comprehensive Income:
Net Income 180.8 180.8 180.8
Other comprehensive income, net of tax:
Gain/loss on foreign currency translation:
Unrealized (1.2) (1.2) (1.2)
Net unrealized gains on derivatives
qualifying as cash flow hedges 65.4 65.4 65.4
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total comprehensive income 245.0
Dividends:
Common shares (180.0) (180.0)
Treasury shares acquired
Issued:
Employee stock purchase plan 6.3 (2.1) 4.2
Long-term incentive plan 28.4 (19.1) 9.3
Amortization of unearned compensation 7.7 7.7
Equity contract costs (1.9) (1.9)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BALANCE JUNE 30, 2001 2.0 - 2,617.9 830.6 (19.6) 68.6 3,499.5
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

<TABLE>
COMMON TREASURY COMMON TREASURY
SHARES (IN THOUSANDS) SHARES SHARES SHARES SHARES
- ------------------------------------------------- -----------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
BALANCE JANUARY 1, 2000 147,784 (23,665) BALANCE JANUARY 1, 2001 205,553 -
Treasury shares acquired (3,964) Treasury shares acquired
Issued: Issued:
Employee stock purchase plan 43 Employee stock purchase plan 10
Long-term incentive plan 965 Long-term incentive plan 1,175

- ------------------------------------------------- -----------------------------------------------------
BALANCE JUNE 30, 2000 147,784 (26,601) BALANCE JUNE 30, 2001 206,738 -
================================================= =====================================================
</TABLE>


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ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

NISOURCE INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1. Basis of Accounting Presentation

The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements for
NiSource Inc. (NiSource) reflect all normal recurring adjustments that
are necessary, in the opinion of management, to present fairly the
results of operations in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles.

The accompanying financial statements should be read in conjunction
with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included
in NiSource's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended
December 31, 2000. Income for interim periods may not be indicative of
results for the calendar year due to weather variations and other
factors. Certain reclassifications have been made to the 2000
financial statements to conform to the 2001 presentation.

2. Diluted Average Common Shares Computation

Basic earnings per share (EPS) is computed by dividing income
available to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of
common shares outstanding for the period. The weighted average shares
outstanding for diluted EPS include the incremental effect of the
various long-term incentive compensation plans. For 2001, the weighted
average shares outstanding for diluted EPS also includes the
incremental effect of the forward equity contract associated with the
Stock Appreciation Income Linked SecuritiesSM (SAILSSM). For 2000, the
incremental effect of common shares associated with another equity
forward purchase contract, calculated under the reverse treasury stock
method is also included in the weighted average shares outstanding for
diluted EPS. On December 26, 2000, the contract was terminated.

The numerator in calculating both basic and diluted EPS for each year
is reported net income. The computation of diluted average common
shares follows:


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three Months Six Months
Ended June 30, Ended June 30,
-------------------- --------------------
2001 2000 2001 2000
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
DENOMINATOR
Basic average common shares outstanding 205,308.8 120,569.5 205,175.1 122,203.7
Dilutive potential common shares - 4,085.4 4,487.5 4,191.8
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Diluted Average Common Shares 205,308.8 124,654.9 209,662.6 126,395.5
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

Due to the net loss that was reported for the three months ended June
30, 2001, the addition of potential common shares was anti-dilutive
and is therefore not included.

3. Acquisition

On November 1, 2000, NiSource completed its acquisition of Columbia
Energy Group (Columbia) for an aggregate consideration of
approximately $6 billion, consisting of $3,888 million in cash, 72.4
million shares of common stock valued at $1,761 million, and SAILSSM
(units consisting of a zero coupon debt security coupled with a
forward equity contract in NiSource shares) valued at $114 million.
NiSource also assumed approximately $2 billion in Columbia debt.
NiSource accounted for the acquisition in accordance with the purchase
method of accounting. The purchase price was allocated to the assets
and liabilities acquired based on the fair value of those assets and
liabilities as of the acquisition date. Based upon the nature of the
regulatory environment in which Columbia's rate-regulated subsidiaries
operate, the fair value of rate-regulated assets and liabilities are
generally considered to be historic cost. The excess of the aggregate
purchase price over the estimated fair value of the net assets
acquired, approximately $3.7 billion, is reflected as goodwill in the
consolidated financial statements and is being amortized on a
straight-line basis over forty years.

In the second quarter of 2001, NiSource increased goodwill by $63.9
million resulting from a revision of the fair value of the net assets
acquired in the acquisition of Columbia Energy Group. The revised
estimates were primarily associated with the resolution of some
uncertainties surrounding the net assets of Columbia Transmission
Communications Corporation (Transcom), the Company's fiber optic
network.



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ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

NISOURCE INC.

NiSource may make additional adjustments to the allocation of the
purchase price assumptions based on the ultimate resolution of
contingencies existing at the acquisition date. The Company does not
anticipate that the final evaluation of these issues will materially
affect the allocation of the purchase price.

4. Restructuring Activities

During 2000, NiSource implemented a plan to restructure its operations
as a result of the acquisition of Columbia discussed above. The
restructuring plan included a severance program, a transition plan to
implement operational efficiency throughout NiSource's operations and
a voluntary early retirement program.

As a result of the restructuring plan, it is estimated that
approximately 900 management, professional, administrative and
technical positions have been or will be eliminated. As of June 30,
2001, approximately 611 employees had been terminated as a result of
the restructuring plan. In October 2000, NiSource recorded pre-tax
charges of $5.8 million in operating expense representing severance
and related benefits costs. This charge included $5.1 million of
estimated termination benefits. In addition, NiSource assumed $66.9
million in liabilities related to the restructuring of Columbia's
operations representing severance and related benefits costs and
relocation of certain operations. At June 30, 2001, the consolidated
balance sheet reflected a liability of $40.3 million related to the
restructuring plan.

5. Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), in its order approving
the acquisition of Columbia, required NiSource to divest its water
utilities within three years from the date of the acquisition. In
January 2001, NiSource adopted a formal plan to dispose of its water
utilities within one year. The water utilities operations are reported
as discontinued operations. See Note 6 on page 10 for further
discussion.

Results from discontinued operations of the water utilities are
provided in the following table:


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three Months Six Months
Ended June 30, Ended June 30,
--------------------------------------------------
($ in millions) 2001 2000 2001 2000
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Revenues from discontinued operations 27.0 25.9 51.8 49.7
Income (Loss) from discontinued operations (2.0) 3.9 (0.2) 5.8
Income tax expense (benefit) (0.3) 1.9 0.9 3.3
Net income (loss) from discontinued operations (1.7) 2.0 (1.1) 2.5
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

On May 22, 2000, as a result of its ongoing strategic assessment,
Columbia announced that it decided to sell its propane operations,
which consists of Columbia Propane Corporation and its subsidiaries
(Columbia Propane). On January 31, 2001, Columbia signed a definitive
agreement to sell the stock and assets of Columbia Propane to AmeriGas
Partners L.P. (AmeriGas) for approximately $208 million, consisting of
$155 million of cash and $50 million of AmeriGas partnership common
units. The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of
2001. NiSource has also sold substantially all the assets of Columbia
Petroleum Corporation (Columbia Petroleum), a diversified petroleum
distribution company. The net assets of the water utilities, Columbia
Propane and Columbia Petroleum are reported as net assets of
discontinued operations on the consolidated balance sheets.


9
10


ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

NISOURCE INC.

The net assets of the discontinued operations were as follows:


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
JUNE 30, December 31,
($ in millions) 2001 2000
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
NET ASSETS OF DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
Accounts receivable, net $ 49.6 $ 107.8
Property, plant and equipment, net 884.8 891.3
Other assets 130.2 173.8
Current liabilities (113.8) (148.2)
Debt (91.8) (169.4)
Other liabilities (270.5) (294.9)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET ASSETS OF DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS $ 588.5 $ 560.4
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>



As a result of project delays, cost overruns, and the economics of the
fiber optics market that have occurred since the acquisition of
Columbia, NiSource recorded a charge of $9.2 million to operating
income in the second quarter of 2001, related to Transcom, a fiber
optics telecommunications network.

In September and October 2000, management held discussions with
investment banking firms seeking strategic options for the Transcom
assets. Although significant uncertainties existed surrounding the
estimated costs to complete the fiber optic network, time to market in
a competitive environment, and delays due to construction deficiencies
and environmental issues, the decision was made to complete the
Transcom network and sell the assets. The Company has received
subsequent information pertaining to the estimated construction costs
and delays. Consequently, management has concluded that the carrying
value of the telecommunication assets exceeds the realizable value by
approximately $89.2 million. Given the resolution of certain
uncertainties related to Transcom that existed when NiSource acquired
Columbia, the purchase price allocation relating to the Transcom
assets is now essentially complete and goodwill resulting from the
acquisition of Columbia has been increased by the after-tax impact of
the excess carrying amount of $52.0 million.

6. Sale of Water Utility Operations

In July 2001, NiSource and the City of Indianapolis (City) signed a
letter of intent for NiSource to sell the assets of the Indianapolis
Water Company and other assets of NiSource's IWC Resources (IWCR)
Corporation and its subsidiaries for $522.5 million, which includes
$132.4 million in IWCR debt. In the transaction, NiSource will retain
$80 million of long-term Indianapolis Water Company debt. As part of
the agreement, the City has committed to offering IWCR employees
comparable employment following completion of the sale and will honor
all collective bargaining agreements. The divestiture of IWCR was
required as part of the order by the SEC approving the November 2000
acquisition of Columbia Energy Group. Closing of the sale is
contingent upon the receipt of all necessary consents, including
approval by the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission and the ability
of the City to obtain financing.

7. Accounting Change

Effective January 1, 2001, NiSource adopted the Financial Accounting
Standards Board's (FASB) Statement of Financial Accounting Standards
(SFAS) No. 133, "Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging
Activities", as subsequently amended by SFAS No. 137 and SFAS No. 138
(collectively referred to as SFAS No. 133). These statements establish
accounting and reporting standards for derivative instruments,
including certain derivative instruments embedded in other contracts
(collectively referred to as derivatives) and for hedging activities.
SFAS No. 133 requires an entity to recognize all derivatives as either
assets or liabilities on the balance sheet and measure those
instruments at fair value. If certain conditions are met, a derivative
may be specifically designated as (a) a hedge of the exposure to
changes in the fair value of a recognized asset or liability or an
unrecognized firm commitment, (b) a hedge of the exposure to variable
cash flows of a forecasted transaction, or (c) a hedge of the foreign
currency exposure of a net investment in a
foreign-currency-denominated forecasted transaction. The accounting
for changes in the fair value of a derivative depends on the intended
use of the derivative and resulting designation.


10
11


ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

NISOURCE INC.

The adoption of this statement on January 1, 2001, resulted in a
cumulative after-tax increase to net income of approximately $4
million and an after-tax reduction to other comprehensive income (OCI)
of approximately $17 million. The adoption also resulted in the
recognition of $178 million of assets and $212.8 million of
liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet. Additionally, the
adoption resulted in the reduction of hedged risk basis of $3.8
million and the reclassification of deferred revenue to OCI of $17.9
million. During the second quarter of 2001 and year-to-date,
approximately $5.4 million and $11.6 million, respectively, of the net
losses previously included in the cumulative effect of a change in
accounting principle component of OCI were reclassified into earnings.
Further detail of the assets and liabilities recorded on the
consolidated financial statements for the adoption of SFAS No. 133 is
as follows:


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
(in millions) ASSETS LIABILITIES
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Price Risk Management $ 161.6 $ 219.9
Deferred Taxes - (7.1)
Regulatory 16.4 -
Debt - (3.8)
Deferred Revenue - (17.9)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL $ 178.0 $ 191.1
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>


As stated above, the initial recording of the cumulative effect of
this accounting change included unrealized holding losses of $17.0
million. However, the activity for the first half of 2001 and the
second quarter resulted in unrealized gains on qualifying derivatives
of $65.5 million and $36.8, respectively. The activity for the periods
included:



<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three Months Six Months
Ended June 30, Ended June 30,
-------------- --------------
(in millions) 2001 2001
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
UNREALIZED GAINS ON DERIVATIVES QUALIFYING AS CASH
FLOW HEDGES:
Unrealized holding losses arising during the period due to
cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle,
recognized at January 1, 2001, net of tax $ - $ (17.0)

Unrealized holding gains arising during the period on
derivatives qualifying as cash flow hedges, net of tax 32.2 71.6

Reclassification adjustment for net loss included in net
income, net of tax (including losses of $5.4 and $11.6
million, respectively, related to the cumulative effect
of change in accounting principle) 4.6 10.9
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net unrealized gains on derivatives qualifying as cash
flow hedges, net of tax $ 36.8 $ 65.5
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>


NiSource's senior management takes an active role in the risk
management process and has developed policies and procedures that
require specific administrative and business functions to assist in
the identification, assessment and control of various risks. In
recognition of the increasingly varied and complex nature of the
energy business, NiSource's risk management policies and procedures
continue to evolve and are subject to ongoing review and modification.

Following is additional information regarding the impact of SFAS No.
133 by segment.



11
12


ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

NISOURCE INC.

Gas Distribution

For regulatory incentive purposes, the Columbia gas distribution
subsidiaries (Columbia LDCs) enter into contracts that allow
counterparties the option to sell gas to Columbia LDCs at specified
prices during specified periods of time. Columbia LDCs charge the
counterparties a fee for this option. The changes in the fair value of
the options are primarily due to the difference between the cost of
gas during the contracted delivery period and the market price of gas
during that same period. Columbia LDCs defer a portion of the change
in the fair value of the options as either a regulatory asset or
liability in accordance with SFAS No. 71, "Accounting for the Effects
of Certain Types of Regulation." The remaining change is recognized
currently in earnings.

Northern Indiana Public Service Company (Northern Indiana) offers a
Price Protection Service as an alternative to the standard gas cost
recovery mechanism. This service provides Northern Indiana customers
with the option to either lock in their gas cost or place a cap on the
total cost that could be charged for any future month specified. In
order to hedge the anticipated physical future purchases associated
with these obligations, Northern Indiana purchases NYMEX futures and
options contracts that correspond to a fixed or capped price and the
associated delivery month. The NYMEX futures and options contracts
satisfy all definitions of a derivative and they qualify and are
designated as a cash flow hedge. Northern Indiana has no net gain or
loss recognized in earnings due to ineffectiveness or time value for
this program in the reporting period and none of the components of the
derivative instruments' value are excluded in its assessment of hedge
effectiveness. It is anticipated that during the next 12 months,
expiration of futures and options contracts will result in income
recognition of amounts currently classified in OCI of approximately
$5.7 million, which will be included in net income. Northern Indiana
has futures and options contracts designated as cash flow hedges
through June 2002. At this time Northern Indiana expects to continue
its cash flow hedges due to the probability that the forecasted
transaction will occur.

Northern Utilities, Inc. offers a Guaranteed Price Service Program as
an alternative to the standard gas cost recovery mechanism. This
service provides Bay State customers with the option to lock in their
gas cost. In order to hedge the anticipated physical future purchases
associated with these obligations, Bay State purchases NYMEX futures
that correspond to a fixed price and the associated delivery month.
The NYMEX futures contracts satisfy all definitions of a derivative.
Because these derivatives are used within the framework of the overall
gas cost incentive mechanism, regulatory assets or liabilities are
recorded to offset the change in the fair value of these derivatives.

Northern Indiana and Bay State Gas Company also engage in writing
options that potentially obligate them to purchase or sell gas at the
holder's discretion at some future market-based price. These written
options are derivative instruments, must be marked to fair value and
do not meet the requirement for hedge accounting treatment. Northern
Indiana also uses NYMEX derivative contracts to minimize its gas
costs. These contracts do not qualify for hedge accounting and must be
marked to fair value. Because these derivatives are used within the
framework of its gas cost incentive mechanism, Northern Indiana may
ultimately share in a portion of the gains or losses on these options
with the ratepayers. Regulatory assets or liabilities are recorded to
offset the change in the fair value of these derivatives until there
is certainty as to the level of sharing, if any.

Exploration and Production

In conjunction with certain fixed price gas delivery commitments,
Columbia Energy Resources, Inc. (Columbia Resources) has purchased
financial basis swaps to transfer basis risk from the counterparty
back to Columbia Resources. Because these transactions by definition
are derivatives and do not qualify for hedge accounting, the mark to
fair value of these swaps will directly impact earnings. Additionally,
Columbia Resources has engaged in commodity and basis swaps to hedge
the anticipated future sale of natural gas. These contracts are
derivatives and are designated as cash flow hedges of anticipated
future sales. The fair value of these derivatives will be recorded in
OCI until the related sale occurs. Any ineffectiveness will be charged
to earnings. Columbia Resources has a net gain of approximately $0.5
million recognized in earnings due to time value in the reporting
period and has not excluded components of the derivatives' values in
its assessment of hedge effectiveness. It is anticipated that during
the next 12 months, expiration of forward swap contracts will result
in income recognition for amounts currently classified in OCI of
approximately $15.2 million, which will be included in net income.
Columbia


12
13


ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

NISOURCE INC.



Resources has forward derivative contracts designated as cash flow
hedges through December 2002. At this time, Columbia Resources expects
to continue the majority of its cash flow hedges due to the
probability that the forecasted events will occur.

Merchant Operations

EnergyUSA-TPC Corp. (TPC) is affected by SFAS No. 133 on a corporate
basis relative to certain intercompany sales contracts. These
contracts on a stand-alone basis are trading contracts to TPC;
however, because counterparties are consolidated affiliates, TPC may
not mark them to fair value on a consolidated basis. Certain
corresponding, offsetting third-party forward purchase commitments or
long futures contracts are designated as cash flow hedges. The mark to
fair value impact of the effective portions of these hedges is offset
in OCI. The impact of remaining sales contracts without offsetting
purchase commitments/futures is recorded currently in earnings on a
consolidated basis. There is no net gain or loss recognized in
earnings due to ineffectiveness or time value in the reporting period
and no components of the derivatives' values have been excluded in the
assessment of hedge effectiveness. It is anticipated that during the
next 12 months, expiration of forward contracts will result in loss
recognition of amounts currently classified in OCI of approximately
$0.9 million, which will be included in net income. NiSource has
designated certain TPC forward derivative contracts as cash flow
hedges through September 2003. At this time, NiSource expects to
continue its cash flow hedges due to the probability that the
forecasted transactions will occur.

Primary Energy, Inc. (Primary Energy) finances, builds and operates
cogeneration plants that convert waste products into alternative forms
of energy. Primary Energy finances the construction of these
facilities by creating synthetic leases. A portion of the synthetic
lease payment floats with a referenced interest rate, thus exposing
Primary Energy to interest rate risks. Primary Energy engages in
interest rate swaps to fix the floating payment and designates these
instruments as cash flow hedges. They are assessed to effectively
hedge the cash flow risk of the anticipated lease payments. Any
earnings impact of changes in the swap's fair value is charged to OCI
until the calculation period is settled. Any ineffectiveness is
charged currently to earnings. Primary Energy has no net gain or loss
recognized in earnings due to ineffectiveness or time value in the
reporting period and it has not excluded any component of the
derivative instrument's value in its assessment of hedge
effectiveness. It is anticipated that during the next twelve months,
expiration of interest rate swap contracts will result in loss
recognition of amounts currently classified in OCI of approximately
$0.7 million, which will be included in net income. Primary Energy has
interest rate swap contracts designated as cash flow hedges through
June 2002. At this time, Primary Energy expects to continue its cash
flow hedges due to the probability that the forecasted transactions
will occur.

Other

Columbia Energy Services, Inc. (Columbia Energy Services) has fixed
price gas delivery commitments to three municipalities in the United
States. Columbia Energy Services entered into a forward purchase
agreement with a gas supplier, wherein the supplier will fulfill the
delivery obligation requirements at a slight premium to index. In
order to hedge this anticipated future purchase of gas from the gas
supplier, Columbia Energy Services entered into pay fixed/receive
floating swaps priced at the locations designated for physical
delivery. These swaps are designated as cash flow hedges of the
anticipated purchases. Any impact of changes in the swaps' fair values
is included in OCI until the sales are completed. Any ineffectiveness
is included in earnings. Columbia Energy Services has no net gain or
loss recognized in earnings due to ineffectiveness or time value in
the reporting period and it has not excluded any component of the
derivative instruments' value in its assessment of hedge
effectiveness. It is anticipated that during the next 12 months,
expiration of forward swap contracts will result in income recognition
of amounts currently classified in OCI of approximately $13.6 million,
which will be included in net income. Columbia Energy Services has
forward swap contracts designated as cash flow hedges through December
2008. At this time, Columbia Energy Services expects to continue its
cash flow hedges due to the probability that the forecasted
transactions will occur.

Gas Transmission and Storage

The adoption and application of SFAS 133 had no impact on this
segment.




13
14


ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

NISOURCE INC.

Electric Operations

The adoption and application of SFAS 133 had no impact on this
segment.

Interest Rate Swaps

Columbia utilizes fixed-to-floating interest rate swap agreements to
modify the interest characteristics of a portion of its outstanding
long-term debt. As a result of these transactions, $300 million of
Columbia's long-term debt is now subject to fluctuations in interest
rates. Columbia has no net gain or loss recognized in earnings due to
ineffectiveness or time value in this reporting period. Columbia has
not excluded any component of the derivative instruments' value in its
assessments of hedge effectiveness.

8. Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

On July 20, 2001, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB)
issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 141,
"Business Combinations," and SFAS No. 142, "Goodwill and Other
Intangible Assets." The key concepts from the two interrelated
Statements include mandatory use of the purchase method in accounting
for business combinations, discontinuance of goodwill amortization, a
revised framework for testing for goodwill impairment at a "reporting
unit" level, and new criteria for the identification and potential
amortization of other intangible assets. Other changes to existing
accounting standards involve the amount of goodwill to be used in
determining the gain or loss on the disposal of assets and a
requirement to test goodwill for impairment at least annually under
the revised framework.

The Business Combinations Statement is generally effective for
combinations that are initiated after June 30, 2001. The Statement on
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets is effective for fiscal years
beginning after December 15, 2001; however, for business combinations
consummated after June 30, 2001, the requirements to discontinue
goodwill amortization are effective upon issuance of the Statements.
The first part of the annual impairment test is to be performed within
six months of adopting the Statement on Goodwill and Other Intangible
Assets.

NiSource will adopt the provisions of the Business Combinations
Statement on July 1, 2001, and the Goodwill and Other Intangible
Assets Statement on January 1, 2002. Although NiSource is currently
evaluating the impact that the Statements will have on its results of
operations, the Company expects the adoption of the Statement on
Goodwill and Other Intangibles to have a significant favorable impact
on operating income beginning January 1, 2002. It is estimated that
NiSource will amortize approximately $95.0 million of goodwill during
2001. Effective January 1, 2002, goodwill will no longer be subject to
amortization.

In July 2001, the FASB issued SFAS No. 143, "Accounting for Asset
Retirement Obligations." The Statement requires entities to record the
fair value of a liability for an asset retirement obligation in the
period in which it is incurred. When the liability is initially
recorded, the entity capitalizes a cost by increasing the carrying
amount of the related long-lived asset. Over time, the liability is
accreted to then its present value, and the capitalized cost is
depreciated over the useful life of the related asset. Upon settlement
of the liability, an entity either settles the obligation for its
recorded amount or incurs a gain or loss upon settlement.

The Statement is effective for fiscal years beginning after June 15,
2002, with earlier application encouraged. NiSource is currently
evaluating the impact that the Statement will have on its results of
operations.

14
15

ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

NISOURCE INC.

9. Business Segment Information

Effective for the second quarter of 2001, NiSource realigned a portion
of its operations and reclassified previously reported operating
segment information to conform to the realigned operating structure.
The realignment affected three previously reported segments, and
included moving all ongoing operations of Energy Marketing and certain
operations from the Electric Operations and Other segments to the
newly created Merchant Operations segment. The electric wheeling, bulk
power, and power trading operations were moved from the Electric
Operations segment to Merchant Operations, and the Company's Primary
Energy subsidiary, that develops on-site, industrial-based energy
solutions, was moved from Other to Merchant Operations.

NiSource's operations are divided into six primary business segments.
The Gas Distribution segment provides natural gas service and
transportation for residential, commercial and industrial customers in
Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Kentucky, Maryland, Indiana,
Massachusetts, Maine and New Hampshire. The Electric Operations
segment provides electric service in 21 counties in the northern part
of Indiana. The Gas Transmission and Storage segment offers gas
transportation and storage services for local distribution companies,
marketers and industrial and commercial customers located in
northeastern, mid-Atlantic, midwestern and southern states and the
District of Columbia. The Exploration and Production segment explores
for, develops, produces and markets gas and oil in the United States
and in Canada. The Merchant Operations segment provides energy-related
services including gas marketing, electric wheeling, bulk power, power
trading and asset management services to local distribution companies
(LDC), wholesale, commercial and industrial customers, and
participates in the development of non-rate regulated power projects.
The Other segment participates in real estate, telecommunications and
other businesses.

The following tables provide information about business segments.
NiSource uses operating income as its primary measurement for each of
the reported segments and makes decisions on finance, dividends and
taxes at the corporate level on a consolidated basis. Segment revenues
include intersegment sales to affiliated subsidiaries, which are
eliminated in consolidation. Affiliated sales are recognized on the
basis of prevailing market, regulated prices or at levels provided for
under contractual agreements. Operating income is derived from
revenues and expenses directly associated with each segment.

15
16


ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

NISOURCE INC.


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three Months Six Months
Ended June 30, Ended June 30,
--------------------------- ----------------------------
($ in millions) 2001 2000 2001 2000
===============================================================================================
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
REVENUES

GAS DISTRIBUTION
Unaffiliated 761.0 194.4 2,812.4 631.6
Intersegment 5.9 24.6 18.5 60.0
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total 766.9 219.0 2,830.9 691.6
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
GAS TRANSMISSION AND STORAGE
Unaffiliated 144.5 11.8 331.5 25.7
Intersegment 71.9 2.0 178.7 2.0
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total 216.4 13.8 510.2 27.7
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ELECTRIC OPERATIONS
Unaffiliated 246.2 241.1 492.9 483.1
Intersegment 0.5 0.7 1.1 1.3
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total 246.7 241.8 494.0 484.4
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
EXPLORATION AND PRODUCTION
Unaffiliated 20.3 - 72.1 -
Intersegment 26.6 - 28.5 -
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total 46.9 - 100.6 -
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MERCHANT OPERATIONS
Unaffiliated 659.5 487.7 1,880.9 842.6
Intersegment 40.1 22.1 100.6 45.0
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total 699.6 509.8 1,981.5 887.6
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OTHER
Unaffiliated 41.4 56.8 78.4 104.7
Intersegment - 10.4 - 20.2
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total 41.4 67.2 78.4 124.9
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Adjustments and eliminations (143.1) (48.5) (322.7) (106.8)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CONSOLIDATED REVENUES 1,874.8 1,003.1 5,672.9 2,109.4
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>



<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three Months Six Months
Ended June 30, Ended June 30,
--------------------------- ----------------------------
($ in millions) 2001 2000 2001 2000
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
OPERATING INCOME (LOSS)
Gas Distribution 1.1 (7.5) 289.1 88.7
Gas Transmission and Storage 64.7 0.5 188.9 1.3
Electric Operations 73.8 79.3 147.5 154.2
Exploration and Production 15.7 - 36.9 -
Merchant Operations 19.8 18.8 19.4 37.6
Other (16.0) 0.1 (45.1) (5.3)
Corporate and Adjustments (11.1) (8.0) (16.4) (18.6)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CONSOLIDATED OPERATING INCOME 148.0 83.2 620.3 257.9
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>



16
17


ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

NISOURCE INC.

CONSOLIDATED RESULTS

The Management's Discussion and Analysis, including statements regarding
market risk sensitive instruments, contains "forward-looking statements,"
within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended,
and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Investors
and prospective investors should understand that many factors govern whether
any forward-looking statement contained herein will be or can be realized. Any
one of those factors could cause actual results to differ materially from
those projected. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited
to, statements concerning NiSource's plans, proposed dispositions, objectives,
expected performance, expenditures and recovery of expenditures through rates,
stated on either a consolidated or segment basis, and any and all underlying
assumptions and other statements that are other than statements of historical
fact. From time to time, NiSource may publish or otherwise make available
forward-looking statements of this nature. All such subsequent forward-looking
statements, whether written or oral and whether made by or on behalf of
NiSource, are also expressly qualified by these cautionary statements. All
forward-looking statements are based on assumptions that management believes
to be reasonable; however, there can be no assurance that actual results will
not differ materially. Realization of NiSource's objectives and expected
performance is subject to a wide range of risks and can be adversely affected
by, among other things, increased competition in deregulated energy markets,
weather, fluctuations in supply and demand for energy commodities, successful
consummation of proposed acquisitions and dispositions, growth opportunities
for NiSource's regulated and non-regulated businesses, dealings with third
parties over whom NiSource has no control, actual operating experience of
acquired assets, NiSource's ability to integrate acquired operations into its
operations, the regulatory process, regulatory and legislative changes,
changes in general economic, capital and commodity market conditions, and
counter-party credit risk, many of which factors are beyond the control of
NiSource. In addition, the relative contributions to profitability by each
segment, and the assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements
relating thereto, may change over time.

The following Management's Discussion and Analysis should be read in
conjunction with NiSource's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year
ended December 31, 2000 (Form 10-K).

SECOND QUARTER RESULTS

Net Income

NiSource reported a net loss of $8.0 million, or $0.04 per share, for the
three months ended June 30, 2001, compared to net income of $23.4 million, or
$0.19 per share, in the 2000 period. The results for 2001 and 2000 are not
directly comparable due to the acquisition of Columbia Energy Group (Columbia)
completed on November 1, 2000, as discussed in Note 3 on page 8. All per share
amounts are basic earnings per share.

Revenues

Total consolidated net revenues (gross revenues less cost of sales) for the
three months ended June 30, 2001, were $711.7 million, a $388.1 million
increase over the same period last year. The increase is primarily
attributable to the acquisition of Columbia.

Expenses

Operating expenses for the second quarter of 2001 were $563.7 million, as
compared to $240.4 million in the 2000 period primarily due to the acquisition
of Columbia. Operating expenses included additional goodwill amortization
related to the Columbia acquisition of $25.4 million and the impairment of the
telecommunications network, partially offset by a $6.4 million pre-tax gain on
the exchange of an aircraft. See "Other - Telecommunications Network" on page
35 for more information.

Other Income (Deductions)

Interest expense was $149.3 million for the quarter, compared to $45.3 million
in the second quarter of 2000, due to borrowing for the acquisition of
Columbia, the interest on the Columbia outstanding debt and increased
short-term borrowings due to the carrying costs associated with the elevated
price of natural gas. Other, net for the second quarter of 2001 increased
income by $6.8 million, compared to $1.5 million in the 2000 period, primarily
due to additional interest income.

17
18


ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

NISOURCE INC.

Income Taxes

Income tax expense for the second quarter of 2001 was $4.8 million, compared
to $11.0 million in the 2000 period, due to lower pre-tax income in the
current period and a higher effective tax rate because the amortization of
goodwill is not tax deductible.

Discontinued Operations

Discontinued operations, which reflect NiSource's water operations, posted an
after-tax loss of $1.7 million for the second quarter of 2001, compared to a
gain of $2.0 million in the second quarter of 2000. The change is primarily
attributed to interest expense.

SIX MONTH RESULTS

Net Income

NiSource reported net income of $180.8 million, or $.88 per share, for the six
months ended June 30, 2001, compared to $103.0 million, or $.84 per share, in
the 2000 period. The results for 2001 and 2000 are not directly comparable due
to the acquisition of Columbia.

Revenues

Total consolidated net revenues (gross revenues less cost of sales) for the
six months ended June 30, 2001, were $1,809.5 million, a $1,060.9 million
increase over the same period last year. The increase was primarily
attributable to the acquisition of Columbia and increased gas sales by the
distribution segment due to colder weather than the same period last year.

Expenses

Operating expenses for the first six months of 2001 were $1,189.2 million,
compared to $490.7 million in the 2000 period. The change is primarily due to
the acquisition of Columbia and the associated goodwill amortization of $50.3
million. Operating expenses also included the settlement of a lawsuit related
to Market Hub Partners, L.P. (MHP) and the impairment of the telecommunication
assets.

Other Income (Deductions)

Interest expense was $312.6 million for the six months, compared to $89.8
million in the first half of 2000, due to borrowing for the acquisition of
Columbia, the interest on the Columbia outstanding debt and increased carrying
costs of gas purchases due to higher prices for natural gas. Other, net for
the first six months of 2001 increased income by $11.4 million, compared to an
increase of $3.9 million in the 2000 period, primarily due to additional
interest income.

Income Taxes

Income tax expense for the first six months of 2001 was $127.2 million,
compared to $57.5 million in the 2000 period, due to higher pre-tax income in
the current period and a higher effective tax rate.

Change in Accounting Principle

On January 1, 2001, NiSource adopted SFAS No. 133, "Accounting for Derivative
Instruments and Hedging Activities" as subsequently amended by SFAS No. 137
and SFAS No. 138. This change in accounting, net of taxes, contributed $4.0
million to net income at adoption.

Discontinued Operations

Discontinued operations, which reflect NiSource's water operations, posted an
after-tax loss of $1.1 million for the first half of 2001, compared to
operating income of $2.5 million in the same period last year. The decrease is
primarily due to higher interest expense.


18
19
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

NISOURCE INC.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Generally, cash flow from operations has provided sufficient liquidity to meet
current operating requirements. A significant portion of NiSource's
operations, most notably in the gas and electric distribution businesses, is
subject to seasonal fluctuations in cash flow. During the heating season,
which is primarily from November through March, cash receipts from gas sales
and transportation services typically exceed cash requirements. In the summer
months, cash receipts for electric sales normally exceed requirements. During
other periods of the year, cash on hand, together with external short-term and
long-term financing, is used to purchase gas to place in storage for heating
season deliveries, perform necessary maintenance of facilities, make capital
improvements in plant and expand service into new areas.

Net cash from operations for the first six months of 2001 was $532.2 million,
an increase of $310.3 million from the same period in 2000 due to the
acquisition of Columbia.

During March 2001, NiSource, through its financing subsidiary NiSource Finance
Corp. (NiSource Finance), entered into a new $2.5 billion revolving credit
facility with a syndicate of banks. The new facility was subsequently drawn on
to refinance and consolidate essentially all of NiSource's short-term
borrowings. The new credit facility is guaranteed by NiSource.

At June 30, 2001 and December 31, 2000, NiSource had $1,937.1 million and
$2,078.8 million of commercial paper outstanding, respectively. The weighted
average interest rate on commercial paper outstanding as of June 30, 2001 and
December 31 2000 was 4.27% and 7.44%, respectively. NiSource had no short-term
notes payable at June 30, 2001 and $417.9 million at December 31, 2000 at a
weighted average interest rate of 7.78%.

On April 6, 2001, NiSource Finance issued $300 million of unsecured two-year
notes guaranteed by NiSource, paying a 5.75% coupon and maturing on April 15,
2003.

At June 30, 2001, NiSource had $52.1 million of standby letters of credit
outstanding. At December 31, 2000, NiSource had $128.5 million of standby
letters of credit outstanding.

MARKET RISK SENSITIVE INSTRUMENTS AND POSITIONS

Risk is an inherent part of NiSource's energy businesses and activities. The
extent to which NiSource manages each of the various types of risk involved in
its businesses is critical to its profitability. NiSource seeks to identify,
assess, monitor and manage, in accordance with defined policies and
procedures, the following principal risks involved in its energy businesses:
commodity market risk, interest rate risk and credit risk. Risk management at
NiSource is a multi-faceted process with independent oversight that requires
constant communication, judgment and knowledge of specialized products and
markets. NiSource's senior management takes an active role in the risk
management process and has developed policies and procedures that require
specific administrative and business functions to assist in the
identification, assessment and control of various risks. In recognition of the
increasingly varied and complex nature of the energy business, NiSource's risk
management policies and procedures continue to evolve and are subject to
ongoing review and modification.

The fair market value of NiSource's price risk management assets and
liabilities were $480.9 million and $360.3 million at June 30, 2001,
respectively, and $1,608.9 million and $1,568.6 million at December 31, 2000,
respectively. The significant decrease in these assets and liabilities that
occurred between these two periods was due primarily to sharply lower energy
prices, and to a lesser extent, reduced trading activities.

NiSource is exposed, through its various business activities, to trading risks
and non-trading risks. The non-trading risks to which NiSource is exposed
include interest rate risk and commodity price risk of its subsidiaries and
certain gas marketing activities. Trading risks consist primarily of commodity
price risks resulting from trading activities. NiSource's risk management
policy permits the use of certain financial instruments to manage its market
risk, including futures, forwards, options and swaps. Risk management at
NiSource is the process by which the organization ensures that the risks to
which it is exposed are the risks to which it desires to be exposed to achieve
its primary business objectives. NiSource employs various analytic techniques
to measure and monitor its market risks,

19
20




ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

NISOURCE INC.


including value-at-risk (VaR) and instrument sensitivity to market factors.
VaR represents the potential loss or gain for an instrument or portfolio from
adverse changes in market factors, for a specified time period and at a
specified confidence level.

Non-Trading Risk

NiSource is exposed to interest rate risk as a result of changes in interest
rates on borrowings under revolving credit agreements and lines of credit.
These instruments have interest rates that are indexed to short-term market
interest rates. At June 30 2001, and December 31, 2000, the combined
borrowings outstanding under these facilities totaled $1,937.1 million and
$2,496.7 million, respectively. Based upon average borrowings under these
agreements, a change in short-term interest rates of 100 basis points (1%)
would have increased or decreased interest expense by $4.3 million for the
three months ended June 30, 2001, $10.2 million for the six months ended June
30, 2001 and $15.7 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2000.

For a discussion of non-trading commodity price and credit risk, please see
the Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations in the Form 10-K.

Trading Risk

NiSource employs a VaR model to assess the market risk of its energy trading
portfolios. Market risk refers to the risk that a change in the level of one
or more market prices, rates, indices, volatilities, correlations or other
market factors, such as liquidity, will result in losses for a specified
position or portfolio. NiSource estimates the one-day VaR across all trading
groups that utilize derivatives using either Monte Carlo simulation or
variance/covariance at a 95% confidence level. Based on the results of the VaR
analysis, the daily market exposure for power trading on an average, high and
low basis was $1.7 million, $2.6 million and $1.0 million, respectively, at
June 30, 2001. The daily VaR for the gas trading portfolio on an average, high
and low basis was $0.5 million, $1.0 million and $0.2 million at June 30,
2001, respectively.

Accounting Change

Effective January 1, 2001, NiSource adopted the Financial Accounting Standards
Board's (FASB) Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 133,
"Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities", as
subsequently amended by SFAS No. 137 and SFAS No. 138 (collectively referred
to as SFAS No. 133). These statements establish accounting and reporting
standards for derivative instruments, including certain derivative instruments
embedded in other contracts (collectively referred to as derivatives) and for
hedging activities. SFAS No. 133 requires an entity to recognize all
derivatives as either assets or liabilities on the balance sheet and measure
those instruments at fair value. If certain conditions are met, a derivative
may be specifically designated as (a) a hedge of the exposure to changes in
the fair value of a recognized asset or liability or an unrecognized firm
commitment, (b) a hedge of the exposure to variable cash flows of a forecasted
transaction, or (c) a hedge of the foreign currency exposure of a net
investment in a foreign-currency-denominated forecasted transaction. The
accounting for changes in the fair value of a derivative depends on the
intended use of the derivative and resulting designation.

The adoption of this statement on January 1, 2001, resulted in a cumulative
after-tax increase to net income of approximately $4 million and an after-tax
reduction to other comprehensive income (OCI) of approximately $17 million.
The adoption also resulted in the recognition of $178 million of assets and
$212.8 million of liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet. Additionally,
the adoption resulted in the reduction of hedged risk basis of $3.8 million
and the elimination of prior hedge accounting balances of $17.9 million.
Approximately $11.6 million of the net losses included in the cumulative
effect of a change in accounting principle component of OCI were reclassified
into earnings during the first six months of 2001.

NiSource's senior management takes an active role in the risk management
process and has developed policies and procedures that require specific
administrative and business functions to assist in the identification,
assessment and control of various risks. In recognition of the increasingly
varied and complex nature of the energy business, NiSource's risk management
policies and procedures continue to evolve and are subject to ongoing review
and modification.

See Note 7, "Accounting Change" for additional information.


20
21

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

NISOURCE INC.



OTHER INFORMATION

Presentation of Segment Information

As a result of the November 1, 2000 acquisition of Columbia, NiSource revised
its presentation of primary business segment information. Columbia's gas
transmission and storage and exploration and production businesses are now
reported as business segments of NiSource. Columbia's gas distribution
operations have been combined with NiSource's gas distribution business.

Effective for the second quarter of 2001, NiSource realigned a portion of its
operations and reclassified previously reported operating segment information
to conform to the realigned operating structure. The realignment affected
three previously reported segments, and included moving all ongoing operations
of Energy Marketing and certain operations from the Electric Operations and
Other segments to the newly created Merchant Operations segment. The electric
wheeling, bulk power, and power trading operations were moved from the
Electric Operations segment to Merchant Operations, and the Company's Primary
Energy subsidiary, that develops on-site, industrial-based energy solutions,
was moved from Other to Merchant Operations. Prior periods have been restated
to reflect these changes.

Competition

The regulatory environment applicable to NiSource's rate-regulated
subsidiaries continues to undergo fundamental changes. These changes
previously had, and will continue to have, an impact on NiSource's operations,
structure and profitability. At the same time, competition within the energy
industry will create opportunities to compete for new customers and revenues.
Management has taken steps to become more competitive and profitable in this
changing environment. These initiatives include partnering on energy projects
with major industrial customers, providing NiSource's customers with increased
choice for new products and services, acquiring companies that increase
NiSource's scale of operations and establishing subsidiaries that develop new
energy-related products for residential, commercial and industrial customers,
including the development of distributed generation technologies.

21
22


ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

NISOURCE INC.
GAS DISTRIBUTION OPERATIONS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three Months Six Months
Ended June 30, Ended June 30,
----------------------------- -----------------------------
($ in millions) 2001 2000 2001 2000
===============================================================================================
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NET REVENUES
Sales Revenues 696.1 201.0 2,607.6 638.2
Less: Cost of gas sold 533.3 134.8 2,020.0 415.3
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net Sales Revenues 162.8 66.2 587.6 222.9
Transportation Revenues 70.8 18.0 223.3 53.4
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net Revenues 233.6 84.2 810.9 276.3
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OPERATING EXPENSES
Operation and maintenance 151.4 51.1 317.4 104.6
Depreciation and amortization 55.3 32.1 119.8 64.2
Other taxes 25.8 8.5 84.6 18.8
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Operating Expenses 232.5 91.7 521.8 187.6
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating Income 1.1 (7.5) 289.1 88.7
===============================================================================================

REVENUES ($ IN MILLIONS)
Residential 334.3 112.3 1,608.0 404.1
Commercial 120.2 44.9 613.3 153.8
Industrial 22.8 12.8 96.2 35.9
Transportation 70.8 18.0 223.3 53.4
Other 218.8 31.0 290.1 44.4
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total 766.9 219.0 2,830.9 691.6
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

SALES AND TRANSPORTATION (MDTH)
Residential sales 26.6 13.6 141.1 56.1
Commercial sales 11.1 6.8 56.7 24.4
Industrial sales 2.2 2.3 8.4 7.0
Transportation 104.0 54.4 269.1 122.4
Other 47.2 3.5 56.2 14.7
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total 191.1 80.6 531.5 224.6
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


HEATING DEGREE DAYS 496 590 3,402 3,551
NORMAL HEATING DEGREE DAYS 662 750 3,692 4,004
% COLDER (WARMER) THAN NORMAL (25%) (21%) (8%) (11%)


CUSTOMERS
Residential 2,330,114 943,106
Commercial 212,838 85,747
Industrial 5,889 3,743
Transportation 640,441 33,208
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total 3,189,282 1,065,804
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>




22
23


ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

NISOURCE INC.

NiSource's natural gas distribution operations (Gas Distribution) serve
approximately 3.2 million customers in nine states. Through its wholly-owned
subsidiary, Columbia, NiSource owns five local distribution companies (LDCs)
that provide natural gas to approximately 2.1 million residential, commercial
and industrial customers in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Kentucky and
Maryland (Columbia LDC's). NiSource also distributes natural gas to
approximately 751,000 customers in northern Indiana through three
subsidiaries: Northern Indiana Public Service Company (Northern Indiana),
Kokomo Gas and Fuel Company and Northern Indiana Fuel and Light Company, Inc.
Additionally, NiSource's subsidiary, Bay State Gas Company, and its subsidiary
Northern Utilities, Inc., distribute natural gas to more than 320,000
customers in Massachusetts, Maine, and New Hampshire.

Regulatory Matters

At the Federal level, gas industry deregulation began in the mid-1980s when
the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) required interstate pipelines
to provide nondiscriminatory transportation services pursuant to unbundled
rates. This regulatory change permitted large industrial and commercial
customers to purchase their gas supplies either from a LDC or directly from
competing producers and marketers, which would then use the LDC's facilities
to transport the gas. More recently, the focus of deregulation in the gas
industry has shifted to retail customers at the state level.

NiSource pursues initiatives that give retail customers the opportunity to
purchase natural gas directly from marketers and to use Gas Distribution's
facilities for transportation services. These opportunities are being pursued
through regulatory initiatives in all of its jurisdictions. Once fully
implemented, these programs would reduce Gas Distribution's commodity sales
function and provide all customer classes with the opportunity to obtain gas
supplies from alternative merchants. As these programs expand to all
customers, regulations will have to be implemented to provide for the recovery
of transition capacity costs and other costs incurred by a utility serving as
the supplier of last resort if a marketing company cannot supply the gas.
Transition capacity costs are created as customers enroll in these programs
and purchase their gas from other suppliers, leaving the Gas Distribution
subsidiaries with pipeline capacity it has contracted for, but no longer
needs. The state commissions in jurisdictions served by Gas Distribution are
at various stages in addressing these issues and other transition
considerations. Gas Distribution is currently recovering, or has the
opportunity to recover, the costs resulting from the unbundling of its
services and believes that most of such future costs and costs resulting from
being the supplier of last resort will be mitigated or recovered.

Market Conditions

Weather in Gas Distribution's markets for the second quarter of 2001, was on
average 25% warmer than normal for the second quarter of 2001 and 8% warmer
than normal for the six-month period.

Throughput

Total volumes sold and transported of 191.1 million dekatherms (MDth) for the
second quarter of 2001 increased 110.5 MDth from the same period last year
primarily due to the inclusion of Columbia's five distribution companies'
throughput of 126.7 MDth. Volumes at Northern Indiana decreased due to weather
18% warmer than 2000, lower transportation volumes to industrial customers and
decreased off-system sales. For the six month period ended June 30, 2001,
total volumes sold and transported were 531.5 MDth, an increase of 306.9 MDth
from the same period in 2000 primarily due to the inclusion of Columbia's five
distribution companies' throughput of 342.1 MDth. Volumes at Northern Indiana
decreased due to lower transportation volumes to industrial customers and
decreased off-system sales, partially mitigated by weather that was 8% colder
than in the first six months of 2000.

Net Revenues

Net revenues for the three months ended June 30, 2001 were $233.6 million, up
$149.4 million over the same period in 2000, primarily due to the acquisition
of Columbia, partially offset by warmer than normal weather. For the six month
period ended June 30, 2001, net revenues were $810.9 million, a $534.6 million
increase from the same period in 2000, primarily due to the acquisition of
Columbia. Net revenues also increased due to weather in northern Indiana that
was 8% colder than in the first six months of 2000.


23
24


ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

NISOURCE INC.

Operating Income

For the second quarter of 2001, gas distribution reported operating income of
$1.1 million, an $8.6 million increase from the same period in 2000. Operating
income increased due to the acquisition of Columbia's five distribution
subsidiaries on November 1, 2000; however, this was partially offset by the
amortization of goodwill associated with the acquisition. Operating income for
the first six months of 2001 of $289.1 million increased $200.4 million over
the same period in 2000 primarily due to the acquisition of Columbia, offset
by six months of goodwill amortization.



24
25


ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

NISOURCE INC.
TRANSMISSION AND STORAGE OPERATIONS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three Months Six Months
Ended June 30, Ended June 30,
--------------------- ----------------------
($ in millions) 2001 2000 2001 2000
===============================================================================================
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
OPERATING REVENUES
Transportation Revenues 167.7 13.8 400.4 27.7
Storage revenues 44.9 - 89.4 -
Other revenues 3.8 - 20.4 -
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Operating Revenues 216.4 13.8 510.2 27.7
Less: Cost of gas sold 18.6 11.7 53.7 23.2
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net Revenues 197.8 2.1 456.5 4.5
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OPERATING EXPENSES
Operation and maintenance 78.8 1.0 158.2 1.9
Depreciation and amortization 40.2 0.4 80.2 0.8
Other taxes 14.1 0.2 29.2 0.5
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Operating Expenses 133.1 1.6 267.6 3.2
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating Income 64.7 0.5 188.9 1.3
===============================================================================================

THROUGHPUT (BCF)
Columbia Transmission
Market Area 149.7 - 516.5 -
Columbia Gulf
Mainline 165.7 - 327.0 -
Short-haul 47.8 - 84.8 -
Intrasegment eliminations (164.7) - (322.0) -
Columbia Pipeline Deep Water 0.9 - 1.7 -
Crossroads Gas Pipeline 9.3 9.7 20.2 20.2
Granite State Pipeline 4.7 6.6 17.7 20.7
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total 213.4 16.3 645.9 40.9
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

NiSource's gas transmission and storage segment consists of the operations of
Columbia Gas Transmission Corporation (Columbia Transmission), Columbia Gulf
Transmission Company (Columbia Gulf), Columbia Pipeline Corporation,
Crossroads Pipeline Company (Crossroads) and Granite State Transmission System
(Granite). In total NiSource owns a pipeline network of approximately 16,500
miles extending from offshore in the Gulf of Mexico to Lake Erie, New York and
the eastern seaboard. Together they serve customers in seventeen northeastern,
mid-Atlantic, midwestern and southern states, as well as the District of
Columbia. In addition, the NiSource gas transmission and storage segment
operates one of the nation's largest underground natural gas storage systems.

Proposed Millennium Pipeline Project

The proposed Millennium Pipeline Project (Millennium Project), in which
Columbia Transmission is participating and will serve as developer and
operator, will transport western gas supplies to northeast and mid-Atlantic
markets. The 442-mile pipeline will connect to TransCanada Pipe Lines Ltd. at
a new Lake Erie export point and transport approximately 700,000 Dth per day
to eastern markets. To date, nine shippers have signed agreements for a
significant portion of the available capacity. Based on the current status of
the regulatory approval process of the FERC, the Millennium Project anticipate
an in-service date of November 1, 2003.

The sponsors of the proposed Millennium Project are Columbia Transmission,
Westcoast Energy, Inc., TransCanada Pipe Lines Ltd. and MCN Energy Group, Inc.



25
26


ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

NISOURCE INC.

Mainline '99

Columbia Gulf filed an application with the FERC in June 1998, for authority
to increase the maximum certificated capacity of its mainline facilities.
Columbia Gulf's largest expansion of its mainline facilities, referred to as
Mainline '99, was authorized by the FERC in February 1999. The Mainline '99
project has increased Columbia Gulf's certificated capacity to nearly 2.2
billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/day) by replacing certain compressor units and
increasing the horsepower capacity of other compressor stations. Appeals
challenging the FERC's authorization of the Mainline '99 facilities were
dismissed by the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia
on May 14, 2001.

Sale of Facilities

Columbia Transmission continues to evaluate and dispose of non-core assets.
Columbia Transmission is currently negotiating with third parties on the sale
of approximately 180 miles of small diameter pipelines and other facilities in
West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Maryland and New York.

Supply Contracts to New Electric Generation Projects

On May 16, 2001, the FERC approved planned facility enhancements allowing
Columbia Gas Transmission to provide up to 140,000 dekatherms a day (Dth/d) to
serve a new 425 MW electric generating facility in West Lorain, Ohio. This
facility began service in June 2001.

In June 2001, Columbia Gas Transmission began providing up to 60,000 Dth/d of
transportation service for a new 552 MW electric generating facility in
Pickaway County, Ohio.

Columbia will also deliver up to 144,000 Dth/d of gas to the 500-MW Ceredo
Generating Station in Wayne County, West Virginia, which began commercial
operation in June 2001.

Columbia Gas Transmission recently filed with the FERC for permission to
construct facilities to provide 125,000 Dth/d of transportation service to
serve a 750 MW electric generating facility that is under construction on the
Delaware-Pennsylvania border. This facility has a scheduled in service date of
June 2003.

Storage Base Gas Sales

Columbia Transmission sold 5.2 billion cubic feet (Bcf) of base gas volumes in
the first quarter of 2001 resulting in a pre-tax gain of $11.4 million. Base
gas represents storage volumes that are maintained to ensure that adequate
pressure exists to deliver current inventory. As a result of ongoing
improvements made in its storage operations, Columbia Transmission determined
that a portion of these storage volumes were no longer necessary to maintain
deliverability of current inventory.

Throughput

Columbia Transmission's throughput consists of transportation and storage
services for local distribution companies and other customers within its
market area, which covers portions of northeastern, mid-Atlantic, mid-western,
and southern states and the District of Columbia. Throughput for Columbia Gulf
reflects mainline transportation services from Rayne, Louisiana to Leach,
Kentucky and short-haul transportation services from the Gulf of Mexico to
Rayne, Louisiana. Crossroads serves customers in northern Indiana and Granite
provides service in New Hampshire.

Throughput for the Transmission and Storage segment totaled 213.4 Bcf for the
second quarter of 2001, compared to 16.3 Bcf in 2000. Throughput in the six
months ended June 30, 2001 was 645.9 Bcf, compared to 40.9 in the same period
of 2000. The increase primarily reflects the addition of Columbia Transmission
and Columbia Gulf Transmission from the acquisition of Columbia.

Net Revenues

Net revenues were $197.8 million for the second quarter of 2001, an increase
of $195.7 due primarily to the inclusion of Columbia operations. Net revenues
were $456.5 million for the six months ended June 30, 2001, an increase of
$452.0 million from the same period in 2000. The increase is primarily due to
the inclusion of Columbia. This also includes the effect of the sale of base
gas discussed above.


26
27
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

NISOURCE INC.

Operating Income

Second quarter 2001 operating income of $64.7 million increased $64.2 million
due primarily to the inclusion of Columbia's operations, partially offset by
the amortization of goodwill for the Columbia acquisition. For the first six
months of 2001, operating income of $188.9 million, an increase of $187.6
million from the 2000 period, was due primarily to the inclusion of Columbia's
operations, partially offset by the amortization of goodwill. The $11.4
million of storage base gas sales in the first quarter of 2001 also
contributed to the increase.



27
28


ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

NISOURCE INC.
ELECTRIC OPERATIONS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three Months Six Months
Ended June 30, Ended June 30,
---------------------- -----------------------
($ in millions) 2001 2000 2001 2000
===============================================================================================
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NET REVENUES
Sales revenues 246.7 241.8 494.0 484.4
Less: Cost of sales 63.6 58.4 130.0 119.0
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net Revenues 183.1 183.4 364.0 365.4
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OPERATING EXPENSES
Operation and maintenance 54.1 56.1 106.1 109.8
Depreciation and amortization 41.8 40.2 83.3 80.2
Other taxes 13.4 7.8 27.1 21.2
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Operating Expenses 109.3 104.1 216.5 211.2
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating Income 73.8 79.3 147.5 154.2
===============================================================================================

REVENUES ($ IN MILLIONS)
Residential 65.3 65.4 134.2 131.8
Commercial 73.3 69.3 141.3 136.6
Industrial 104.0 103.9 209.0 213.9
Other electric service 4.1 3.2 9.5 2.1
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total 246.7 241.8 494.0 484.4
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

SALES (GIGAWATT HOURS)
Residential 640.7 655.8 1,338.3 1,323.6
Commercial 850.0 824.8 1,665.4 1,623.2
Industrial 2,309.0 2,390.8 4,632.1 4,926.8
Other electric service 26.7 32.6 60.1 64.0
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total 3,826.4 3,904.0 7,695.9 7,937.6
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ELECTRIC CUSTOMERS
Residential 379,059 377,474
Commercial 46,897 46,212
Industrial 2,663 2,671
Other electric service 804 812
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total 429,423 427,169
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

NiSource generates and distributes electricity, through its subsidiary
Northern Indiana, to approximately 430,000 customers in 21 counties in the
northern part of Indiana. Northern Indiana owns and operates four coal-fired
electric generating stations with a net capability of 3,179 megawatts, four
gas-fired combustion turbine generating units with a net capability of 203
megawatts and two hydroelectric generating plants with a net capability of 10
megawatts. These facilities provide for a total system net capability of 3,392
megawatts. Northern Indiana is interconnected with five neighboring electric
utilities.

Market Conditions

The regulatory framework applicable to electric operations are undergoing
fundamental changes. These changes have previously had, and will continue to
have, an impact on NiSource's electric operations, structure and
profitability. At the same time, competition within the industry will create
opportunities to compete for new customers and revenues. Management has taken
steps to become more competitive and profitable in this changing environment,
including converting some of its generating units to allow use of lower cost,
low sulfur coal and improving the transmission interconnections with
neighboring electric utilities.


28
29


ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

NISOURCE INC.

Regulatory Matters

FERC issued Order No. 888-A in 1996 that required all public utilities owning,
controlling or operating transmission lines to file non-discriminatory
open-access tariffs and offer wholesale electricity suppliers and marketers
the same transmission service they provide themselves. On June 30, 2000, the
D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld FERC's open access orders in all major
respects, although the U.S. Supreme Court on February 26, 2001 agreed to
review the case. In 1997, FERC accepted for filing Northern Indiana's
open-access transmission tariff. On December 20, 1999, FERC issued Order 2000
addressing the formation and operation of Regional Transmission Organizations
(RTOs). The rule is intended to eliminate pricing inequities in the provision
of wholesale transmission service. On October 16, 2000, NiSource filed with
the FERC indicating that it is committed to joining an RTO and on February 28,
2001 joined the Alliance RTO. The Alliance RTO expects to be fully operational
by FERC's December 15, 2001 deadline. The Alliance RTO companies serve a
population of 41 million within 178,800 square miles in 11 states and own
57,100 miles of transmission lines.

During the course of a regularly scheduled review, referred to as a Level 1
review, the staff of the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) made a
preliminary determination, based on unadjusted historical financial
information filed by Northern Indiana, that Northern Indiana was earning
returns that were in excess of its last rate order and generally established
standards. Despite holding meetings with the IURC staff during 2000 to explain
several adjustments that needed to be made to the filed information to make
such an analysis meaningful, the staff has recommended that a formal
investigation be performed. The IURC has ordered that an investigation begin.
On June 18, Northern Indiana and several other parties filed their
case-in-chief. Northern Indiana's testimony indicated that if rates are to be
changed, they should be increased. Other parties indicated that rates should
be reduced. Management is unable at this time to determine if a broader
analysis, which would be performed through a formal investigation, could
result in a rate adjustment that would be higher or lower than currently
allowed rates. Management intends to vigorously oppose any efforts to reduce
rates that may result from this investigation.

Environmental Matters

AIR. During 1998, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
issued a final rule, the nitrogen oxides (NOx) State Implementation Plan (SIP)
call, requiring certain states, including Indiana to reduce NOx levels from
several sources, including industrial and utility boilers. At a June 6, 2001
meeting, the Air Pollution Control Board of Indiana adopted as final the
Indiana NOx control rule to meet the requirements of the EPA NOx SIP call.
Before it will become Indiana regulation the rule must be signed by the
Attorney General and Governor. Preliminary estimates of Northern Indiana's NOx
control compliance costs range from $200 to $300 million. Actual compliance
costs may be more than preliminary estimates due to a number of factors
including: market demand/resource constraints, uncertainty of future equipment
and construction costs, and the potential need for additional control
technology.

The EPA has initiated enforcement actions against several electric utilities
alleging violations of the new source review provisions of the Clean Air Act.
Northern Indiana has received and is in the process of responding to
information requests from the EPA on this subject. It is impossible at this
time to predict the result of EPA's review of Northern Indiana's information
responses.

The EPA is in the process of developing a program to address regional haze.
The new administration announced that the EPA would move forward with rules
that mandate the states to require power plants built between 1962 and 1977 to
install the "best available retrofit technology" or BART. The BART program
will target for control by 2013 those pollutants that limit visibility -
particulate, sulfur dioxide and/or nitrogen oxides. Until the program is
developed, Northern Indiana cannot predict the cost of complying with these
rules.

WATER. The Great Lakes Water Quality Initiative ("GLI") program is expected to
add new water quality standards for facilities that discharge into the Great
Lakes watershed, including Northern Indiana's three electric generating
stations located on Lake Michigan. The State of Indiana has promulgated its
regulations for this water discharge permit program and has received final EPA
approval. As promulgated, the regulations would provide the Indiana Department
of Environmental Management (IDEM) with the authority to grant water quality
criteria variances and exemptions for non-contact cooling water. However, the
EPA revised the variance language and other minor provisions of IDEM's GLI
rule. The EPA by and large left the non-contact cooling water exemption
intact; however, a separate agreement between the EPA and IDEM on
interpretation of this exemption still leaves



29
30
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

NISOURCE INC.

uncertainty as to its impact. The EPA change to the variance rule has prompted
litigation by the affected industrial parties and the EPA/IDEM agreement on
the non-contact cooling water exemption may be subject to future litigation.
Northern Indiana expects that IDEM will issue a proposed permit renewal for
each of its lakeside stations. Pending the outcome of litigation and the
proposed permit renewal requirements, the costs of complying with these
requirements cannot be predicted at this time.

Sales

Electric sales for the second three months of 2001 were 3,826.4 million
kilowatt-hours (kwh), a decrease of 77.6 million kwh, compared to the 2000
period, primarily reflecting decreased industrial sales due to a decline in
production in the steel industry offset by increased commercial sales.
Electric sales for the first six months of 2001 were 7,695.9 kwh, a decrease
of 241.7 million kwh, compared to the 2000 period, primarily reflecting
decreased industrial sales due to a decline in production in the steel
industry.

Net Revenues

In the second quarter of 2001, electric net revenues of $183.1 million
decreased by $0.3 million over the 2000 period. This decrease reflects
decreased industrial sales due to decreased production in the steel industry
offset by an increase in commercial sales.

In the first six months of 2001, electric net revenues of $364.0 million
decreased by $1.4 million over the 2000 period. This decrease reflects
decreased industrial sales due to decreased production in the steel industry
offset by an increase in commercial sales.

Operating Income

Operating income for the second quarter of 2001 was $73.8 million, a decrease
of $ 5.5 million over the same period in 2000. The 2000 period had been
favorably impacted as a result of an adjustment of property tax accruals of
$5.8 million.

Operating income for the first six months of 2001 was $147.5 million, a
decrease of $6.7 million over the same period in 2000. The 2000 period had
been favorably impacted as a result of an adjustment of property tax accruals
of $5.8 million.

30
31


ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

NISOURCE INC.
EXPLORATION AND PRODUCTION OPERATIONS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
THREE MONTHS SIX MONTHS
ENDED JUNE 30, ENDED JUNE 30,
($ in millions) 2001 2001
===============================================================================================
<S> <C> <C>
OPERATING REVENUES
Gas revenues 43.2 92.4
Gathering revenues 2.4 5.0
Other revenues 1.3 3.2
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Operating Revenues 46.9 100.6
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating Expenses
Operation and maintenance 14.4 31.0
Depreciation and depletion 12.6 22.8
Other taxes 4.2 9.9
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Operating Expenses 31.2 63.7
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating Income 15.7 36.9
===============================================================================================

AVERAGE PRICE OF GAS PRODUCTION ($ PER MCf)
U.S. 4.06 3.67
Canada 5.00 6.69

GAS PRODUCTION (BCf):
U.S. 11.6 26.1
Canada 0.1 0.1
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total 11.7 26.2
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

OIL AND LIQUIDS PRODUCTION STATISTICS
Production (000 Bbls)
U.S. 41 100
Canada 2 4
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total 43 104
===============================================================================================

Average Price ($ per Bbl)
U.S. 22.75 24.59
Canada 28.92 30.15
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

NiSource's exploration and production subsidiary, Columbia Energy Resources,
Inc. (Columbia Resources), is one of the largest independent natural gas and
oil producers in the Appalachian Basin and also has production operations in
Canada. NiSource acquired Columbia Resources as part of the Columbia
acquisition on November 1, 2000. Columbia Resources produced nearly 11.7 Bcf
equivalents (Bcfe) and 26.2 Bcf of natural gas and oil in the second quarter
and the first six months of 2001, respectively, has financial interests in
over 8,000 wells, and has net proven gas and oil reserve holdings of 1.1
trillion cubic feet equivalent at June 30, 2001. Columbia Resources also owns
and operates approximately 6,200 miles of gathering pipelines.

Columbia Resources seeks to achieve asset and profit growth primarily through
expanded drilling activities. For the second quarter of 2001, Columbia
Resource's drilling activity resulted in the discovery of 11.2 net Bcfe of gas
and oil reserves. For the six months ended June 30, 2001, Columbia Resource
discovered 23.6 net Bcfe of gas and oil reserves. During the second quarter of
2001, Columbia Resources has participated in 37 gross (35 net) wells with a
success rate of 88 percent. For the six months ended June 30, 2001, Columbia
Resources participated in 61 gross (57.4 net) wells with a success rate of 93
percent.


31
32


ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

NISOURCE INC.

Forward Sale of Natural Gas

On March 30, 2001, Columbia Resources restructured its existing forward gas
sales agreements with Mahonia II Limited (Mahonia). Physical deliveries of
19.9 Bcf of natural gas to Mahonia, required under the previous agreements for
the period April 2001 through March 2002, have been postponed. These
deliveries have been scheduled to resume in January 2003 and continue through
February 2006, with 31.7 Bcf of gas to be delivered in addition to the
previous requirements of the forward gas sales agreements.

Volumes

Gas production was 11.7 Bcf and 26.2 Bcf in the second quarter and first six
months of 2001, respectively. The second quarter results were negatively
impacted by shut-in production in coal mining territory and compressor
outages. Oil and liquids production was 43,000 barrels and 104,000 barrels in
the second quarter and first six months of 2001, respectively.

Operating Revenues

Operating revenues for the second quarter of 2001 were $46.9 million. Columbia
Resources' natural gas production was fully hedged at an average price of
$4.15 per million cubic feet (Mcf). Operating revenues for the first half of
2001 were $100.6 million. Approximately 86% of Columbia Resource's natural gas
production was hedged at an average price of $4.12 per Mcf.

Operating Income

Operating income for the second quarter of 2001 was $15.7 million. Depletion
expense included an impairment write-down of $1.9 million for the Canadian oil
and gas properties. Operating income for the six months ended June 30, 2001
was $36.9 million. Depletion expense included an impairment write-down of $3.5
million for the Canadian oil and gas properties.

32
33


ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

NISOURCE INC.
MERCHANT OPERATIONS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three Months Six Months
Ended June 30, Ended June 30,
-------------------- ------------------------
($ in millions) 2001 2000 2001 2000
===============================================================================================
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NET REVENUES
Gas 428.7 370.2 1,573.1 656.5
Electric 251.9 123.4 375.2 198.8
Other 19.0 16.2 33.2 32.3
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Revenues 699.6 509.8 1,981.5 887.6
Less: Cost of products purchased 662.7 474.5 1,928.6 816.8
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net Revenues 36.9 35.3 52.9 70.8
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OPERATING EXPENSES
Operation and maintenance 15.6 15.5 30.7 31.1
Depreciation and amortization 0.6 0.5 1.1 1.0
Other taxes 0.9 0.5 1.7 1.1
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Operating Expenses 17.1 16.5 33.5 33.2
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating Income 19.8 18.8 19.4 37.6
===============================================================================================

VOLUMES
Gas sales (MDth) 88.0 98.9 251.2 196.5
Electric sales (Gigawatt Hours) 5,146.6 2,414.2 7,722.5 5,167.0
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

NiSource provides non-regulated merchant energy through its wholly-owned
subsidiary EnergyUSA, Inc., Primary Energy and Northern Indiana. Energy USA,
Inc., through its subsidiary EnergyUSA-TPC Corp. (TPC), provides energy
related asset management and asset portfolio replacement opportunities for
LDCs and fuel requirement services for electric utilities, independent power
producers and cogeneration facilities. TPC also provides natural gas sales and
management services to industrial and commercial customers, engages in natural
gas marketing activities and provides gas supply. Primary Energy develops,
builds, owns, operates and manages industrial based energy projects. The focus
of the company is to develop on-site, industrial-based energy solutions for
large complexes having multiple energy flows, such as electricity, steam,
by-product fuels or heated water. Northern Indiana provides non-regulated
electric power generation marketing, electric wheeling and bulk power sales.

Primary Energy

Through its subsidiaries, Primary Energy has entered into agreements with
several of NiSource's largest industrial customers, principally steel mills
and a refinery, to service a portion of their energy needs. In order to serve
its customers under the agreements, and to have electricity available for the
wholesale market, Primary Energy, through its subsidiaries, has entered into
certain operating lease commitments to lease these energy-related projects,
which have a combined capacity of 393 megawatts in operation and 575 megawatts
under construction. NiSource, through subsidiaries, guarantees certain of
Primary Energy's obligations under each lease.

LTV Bankruptcy

The LTV Corporation, parent of LTV Steel Company, Inc. (LTV), filed for
protection under Chapter 11 of the Federal Bankruptcy Code on December 29,
2000. Primary Energy is constructing a cogeneration plant on the site of LTV's
East Chicago mill. While the bankruptcy affords LTV an opportunity to reject
the current 15-year contract for use of the facility, Primary Energy is
working closely with LTV to obtain contract affirmation. LTV's decision is
expected during 2001. Work on the project is continuing with commercial
operation scheduled for October 2001.

Net Revenues

Total sales revenues of $699.6 million for the second quarter of 2001
increased $189.8 million over the 2000 second quarter. The increase in sales
revenues primarily reflected an increase in trading activity and higher energy
prices. Net revenues for the second quarter of 2001 were $36.9 million, an
increase of $1.6 million over the same period last year. The improvement is
due primarily to increased opportunities in electric trading, offset by TPC's
mark-to-market adjustments, which reflect a decline in the value of basis
positions related to structured transactions in Northeast markets.


33
34


ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

NISOURCE INC.

Total sales revenues of $1,981.5 million for the first six months of 2001
increased $1,093.9 million over the 2000 period. The increase in sales
revenues primarily reflected an increase in trading activity. Net revenues for
the first six months of 2001 were $52.9 million, compared to $70.8 million in
the same period last year. The decline is due primarily to mark-to-market
adjustments resulting from a decline in the value of basis positions related
to structured transactions in Northeast markets.

Operating Income

Merchant Operations had operating income of $19.8 million for the second
quarter of 2001 compared to operating income of $18.8 million for the same
period last year. The increase is primarily due to the increased net revenues
discussed above. For the six months ended June 30, 2001, Merchant Operations
had operating income of $19.4 million compared to operating income of $37.6
for the same period in 2000. The decrease is primarily due to the decline in
net revenues discussed above.

34
35


ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OPERATIONS (continued)

NISOURCE INC.
OTHER (INCLUDES ASSETS HELD FOR SALE)


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three Months Six Months
Ended June 30, Ended June 30,
----------------- -----------------
($ in millions) 2001 2000 2001 2000
===============================================================================================
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NET REVENUES
Products and services revenue 41.4 67.2 78.4 124.9
Less: Cost of products purchased 29.7 43.1 58.4 83.3
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net Revenues 11.7 24.1 20.0 41.6
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OPERATING EXPENSES
Operation and maintenance 14.3 16.6 33.0 32.0
Lawsuit settlement charges - - 15.5 -
Depreciation and amortization 2.0 6.2 4.1 12.5
Other taxes 2.2 1.2 3.3 2.4
Impairment of telecommunication assets 9.2 - 9.2 -
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Operating Expenses 27.7 24.0 65.1 46.9
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating Income (Loss) (16.0) 0.1 (45.1) (5.3)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

NiSource has invested in a number of distributed generation technologies
including fuel cells and microturbine ventures. NiSource is also building a
dark-fiber optics telecommunications network primarily along its pipeline
rights-of-way between New York and Washington D.C. NiSource is pursuing
strategic alternatives for its telecommunications network, has recently exited
the pipeline construction business and is in the process of selling the line
locating and marking business.

Telecommunications Network

As a result of project delays, cost overruns, and the economics of the fiber
optics market that have occurred since the acquisition of Columbia, NiSource
recorded a charge of $9.2 million to operating income in the second quarter of
2001, related to Columbia Transmission Communications Corporation (Transcom),
a fiber optics telecommunications network.

In September and October 2000, management held discussions with investment
banking firms seeking strategic options for the Transcom assets. Although
significant uncertainties existed surrounding the estimated costs to complete
the fiber optic network, time to market in a competitive environment, and
delays due to construction deficiencies and environmental issues, the decision
was made to complete the Transcom network and sell the assets. The Company has
received subsequent information pertaining to the estimated construction costs
and delays. Consequently, management has concluded that the carrying value of
the telecommunication assets exceeds the realizable value by approximately
$89.2 million. Given the resolution of certain uncertainties related to
Transcom that existed when NiSource acquired Columbia, the purchase price
allocation relating to the Transcom assets is now essentially complete and
goodwill resulting from the acquisition of Columbia has been increased by the
after-tax impact of the excess carrying amount of $52.0 million.

Net Operating Revenues

Net operating revenues of $11.7 million for the second quarter of 2001
decreased by $12.4 million from the second quarter of 2000. This decrease is
due to the absence of revenues from the non-core businesses that have been
sold, partially offset by higher revenues in the line locating business. Net
operating revenues of $20.0 million for the first half of 2001 decreased by
$21.6 million from the same period in 2000. This decrease is due to the
absence of revenues from non-core businesses, partially offset by higher
revenues in the line locating business.

Operating Income (Loss)

Other reported an operating loss of $16.0 million versus operating income of
$0.1 million in the second quarter of 2000, reflecting the impairment of
telecommunication assets and non-core businesses included in the prior year
that were subsequently sold. For the first six months of 2001, Other reported
an operating loss of $45.1 million versus an operating loss of $5.3 million in
the first half of 2000. The decrease reflects the impairment of
telecommunication assets, the settlement of litigation related to Market Hub
Partners, LLP., and the absence of non-core businesses as discussed above.
These items were partially offset by increased operating income in the line
locating business.


35
36


ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

NISOURCE INC.

For a discussion regarding quantitative and qualitative disclosures about
market risk see page 19 of the Management's Discussion and Analysis of
Financial Condition and Results of Operations under "Market Risk Sensitive
Instruments and Positions."

36
37


PART II

ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

NISOURCE INC.

1. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA EX REL. JACK J. GRYNBERG V. COLUMBIA GAS
TRANSMISSION CORP. ET. AL.

The plaintiff filed a complaint under the False Claims Act, on behalf of
the United States of America, against approximately seventy pipelines,
including Columbia Gulf. The plaintiff claimed that the defendants had
submitted false royalty reports to the government (or caused others to do
so) by mismeasuring the volume and heating content of natural gas produced
on Federal land and Indian lands. Plaintiff's original complaint was
dismissed without prejudice for misjoinder of parties and for failing to
plead fraud with specificity. In 1997, the plaintiff then filed over
sixty-five new False Claims Act complaints against over 330 defendants in
numerous Federal courts. One of those complaints was filed in the Federal
District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana against Columbia and
thirteen affiliated entities. Plaintiff's second complaint repeats the
mismeasurement claims previously made and adds valuation claims alleging
that the defendants have undervalued natural gas for royalty purposes in
various ways, including by making sales to affiliated entities at
artificially low prices. Most of the Grynberg cases were transferred to
Federal court in Wyoming in 1999. In December 1999, the Columbia
defendants filed a motion to dismiss plaintiff's second complaint
primarily based on a failure to plead fraud with specificity. In May 2001,
the Court denied the Columbia defendants' motion to dismiss. The Columbia
defendants have joined together with numerous other defendants and have
filed a motion requesting the district court to amend its order to include
a certification so that the defendant could request permission from the
United States Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit to appeal a
controlling question of law. That motion was denied on July 2, 2001.

2. QUINQUE OPERATING CO. ET AL V. GAS PIPELINES ET AL.

Plaintiff filed an amended complaint in Stevens County, Kansas state court
on September 23, 1999, against over 200 natural gas measurers, mostly
natural gas pipelines, including Columbia and fourteen affiliated
entities. The allegations in Quinque are similar to those made in
Grynberg; however, Quinque broadens the claims to cover all oil and gas
leases (other than the Federal and Indian leases that are the subject of
Grynberg). Quinque asserts a breach of contract claim, negligent or
intentional misrepresentation, civil conspiracy, common carrier liability,
conversion, violation of a variety of Kansas statutes and other common law
causes of action. Quinque purports to be a nationwide class action filed
on behalf of all similarly situated gas producers, royalty owners,
overriding royalty owners, working interest owners and certain state
taxing authorities. The defendants had previously moved the case to
Federal court. On January 12, 2001, the Federal court remanded the case to
state court. In June 2001, the plaintiff voluntarily dismissed ten of the
fourteen Columbia entities. Discovery relating to personal jurisdiction
has begun.

3. VIVIAN K. KERSHAW ET AL. V. COLUMBIA NATURAL RESOURCES, INC., ET AL.

In February 2000, plaintiff filed a complaint in New York state court
against Columbia Resources and Columbia Transmission. The complaint
alleges that Kershaw owns an interest in an oil and gas lease in New York
and that the defendants have underpaid royalties on those leases by, among
other things, failing to base royalties on the price at which natural gas
is sold to the end user and by improperly deducting post-production costs.
The complaint also seeks class action status on behalf of all royalty
owners in oil and gas leases operated by Columbia Resources. Plaintiff
seeks the alleged royalty underpayments and punitive damages. Columbia
Resources and Columbia Transmission removed the case to Federal court in
March 2000. The Federal court has now remanded Kershaw back to New York
state court. The New York state court judge has heard the Columbia
defendants' motion to dismiss the case and has taken the matter under
advisement.

4. ANTHONY GONZALEZ, ET AL. V. NATIONAL PROPANE CORPORATION, ET AL.

On December 11, 1997, plaintiffs Anthony Gonzalez, Helen Pieczynski, as
Special Administrator of the Estate of Edmund Pieczynski, deceased,
Michael Brown and Stephen Pieczynski filed a multiple-count complaint for
personal injuries in the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois against
National Propane Corporation and the Estate of Edmund Pieczynski sounding
in strict tort liability and negligence. Plaintiff's complaint arises from
an explosion and fire which occurred in a Wisconsin vacation cottage in
1997. National Propane, L.P. filed a third-party complaint for
contribution against Natural Gas Odorizing and Phillips Petroleum Company.
Written discovery has been completed and the parties are conducting oral
discovery of the fact witnesses. There has been no trial date set in the
matter, and the next court date is October 16, 2001, at which time further
scheduling of discovery will occur.

37
38


ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS (continued)

NISOURCE INC.

5. COLUMBIA GAS TRANSMISSION CORP. V. CONSOLIDATION COAL CO., ET AL.

On December 21, 1999, Columbia Transmission filed a complaint in Federal
court in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania against Consolidation Coal Co. and
McElroy Coal Co. (collectively, Consol), seeking declaratory and permanent
injunctive relief enjoining Consol from pursuing its current plan to
conduct longwall mining through Columbia Transmission's Victory Storage
Field (Victory) in northern West Virginia. The complaint was served on
April 10, 2000. Consol's current plans to longwall mine through Victory
would destroy certain infrastructure of Victory, including all of Columbia
Transmission's storage wells in the path of the mining. The parties are
holding discussions concerning resolution of this matter. On December 8,
2000, the court denied Consol's motion to dismiss. On March 5, 2001, the
court denied Consol's motion to transfer this action to Federal court in
West Virginia (see McElroy Coal Company v. Columbia Gas Transmission
Corporation below). On March 27, 2001, the court also granted Columbia's
motion to enjoin Consol from further prosecuting the West Virginia action
and from initiating any further actions in any other court raising
compulsory counterclaims to this action. On April 2, 2001, Consol filed an
appeal of the March 27, 2001 order to the United States Court of Appeals
for the Third Circuit. The appeal has been fully briefed and is awaiting
disposition by the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit.
Consol also filed a Motion for Leave to File a Counterclaim on April 10,
2001, including a claim for inverse condemnation. The court accepted
Consol's Motion for Leave on April 12, 2001. Columbia Transmission filed
its response to Consol's counterclaim on May 3, 2001. Meanwhile, discovery
is proceeding.

6. McELROY COAL COMPANY V. COLUMBIA GAS TRANSMISSION CORPORATION

On February 12, 2001, McElroy Coal Company (McElroy), an affiliate of
Consolidation Coal Co., filed a complaint against Columbia Transmission in
Federal court in Wheeling, West Virginia. The West Virginia complaint
seeks declaratory and injunctive relief as to McElroy's alleged right to
mine coal within Victory, and Columbia Transmission's obligation to take
all necessary measures to permit McElroy to longwall mine. The complaint
also seeks compensation for the inverse condemnation of any coal that
cannot be mined due to Columbia Transmission's Victory operations. Except
for the claim of inverse condemnation, McElroy's West Virginia complaint
appears to be virtually identical to Consol's original counterclaim to
Columbia Transmission's Federal court action in Pennsylvania. As discussed
in Columbia Gas Transmission Corp. v. Consolidation Coal Co., et al,
above, the federal court in Pittsburgh has granted Columbia's motion to
enjoin McElroy from further prosecution of this action and this order is
on appeal to the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit.
Meanwhile, on April 10, 2001, the West Virginia case was dismissed without
prejudice.

38
39


NISOURCE INC.

ITEM 2. CHANGES IN SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

None


ITEM 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES

None


ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS

On April 11, 2001, NiSource held its Annual Meeting of Stockholders. On the
February 26, 2001 record date, NiSource had 206,394,868 shares of common stock
outstanding, each of which was entitled to one vote at the meeting. Voted upon
and approved by the requisite number of shares present in person or by proxy
at the meeting was: the election of four directors each to serve a term of
three years.


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Name of Director Votes For Votes Withheld
----------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Steven C. Beering 175,654,620 2,172,334
Dennis E. Foster 176,093,951 1,733,003
James T. Morris 166,917,014 10,909,940
Carolyn Y. Woo 170,718,750 7,108,204
</TABLE>


ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION

None


ITEM 6. EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K

(a) Exhibits

(10.34) Form of Agreement between NiSource Inc. and certain officers of
Columbia Energy Group and schedule of parties to such Agreements.

(10.35) NiSource Inc. Directors' Charitable Gift Program effective
January 1, 2001 (superceding the NIPSCO Industries, Inc.
Directors' Charitable Gift Program effective September 27, 1994
(filed as Exhibit 10.9 to the NiSource Annual Report on Form 10-K
for the year ended December 31, 2000)).

Pursuant to Item 601(b)(4)(iii) of Regulation S-K, NiSource hereby agrees
to furnish the SEC, upon request, any instrument defining the rights of
holders of long-term debt of NiSource not filed as an exhibit herein. No
such instrument authorizes long-term debt securities in excess of 10% of
the total assets of NiSource and its subsidiaries on a consolidated basis.

(b) Reports on Form 8-K

The following reports on Form 8-K were filed during the second quarter of
2001:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Financial
Item Statements
Reported Included Date of Event Date Filed
-----------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
9 No June 12, 2001 June 12, 2001
5 No May 21, 2001 May 21, 2001
7 Yes April 2, 2001 April 2, 2001
</TABLE>


39
40


SIGNATURE



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








<TABLE>
<S> <C>
NiSource Inc.
-------------------------------
(Registrant)













Date: August 7, 2001 By: /s/ Jeffrey W. Grossman
-------------------------------
Jeffrey W. Grossman
Vice President and Controller
(Principal Accounting Officer
and Duly Authorized Officer)
</TABLE>

40