Spire Inc. - 10-K annual report

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D. C.

FORM 10-K

ANNUAL REPORT

For the Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2009

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D. C. 20549

FORM 10-K

OR

 
 

720 Olive Street

St. Louis, MO 63101

314-342-0500

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None.

Indicate by check mark if the registrant:

is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.

is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.

(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 report) and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. (X)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant:

is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act

is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

The aggregate market value of the voting stock held by non-affiliates of The Laclede Group, Inc.

amounted to $806,025,946 as of March 31, 2009.

Number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock as of the latest practicable date:

*  100% owned by The Laclede Group, Inc.

Document Incorporated by Reference:

    Portions of Proxy Statement dated December 18, 2009 —Part III

Index to Exhibits is found on page 92.

 

This combined Form 10-K is separately filed by The Laclede Group, Inc. and Laclede Gas Company. Each registrant hereto is filing on its own behalf all of the information contained in this annual report that relates to such registrant. Each registrant hereto is not filing any information that does not relate to such registrant, and therefore makes no representation as to any such information.

Note: Laclede Gas Company Selected Financial Data, Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, Financial Statements, Notes to Financial Statements, Management Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting, and Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm are included as Exhibit 99.1.

Certain matters discussed in this report, excluding historical information, include forward-looking statements. Certain words, such as “may,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “seek,” and similar words and expressions identify forward-looking statements that involve uncertainties and risks. Future developments may not be in accordance with our expectations or beliefs and the effect of future developments may not be those anticipated. Among the factors that may cause results to differ materially from those contemplated in any forward-looking statement are:

Readers are urged to consider the risks, uncertainties, and other factors that could affect our business as described in this report. All forward-looking statements made in this report rely upon the safe harbor protections provided under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. We do not, by including this statement, assume any obligation to review or revise any particular forward-looking statement in light of future events.

Item 1. Business

Overview

The Laclede Group, Inc. (Laclede Group or the Company) is a public utility holding company formed through a corporate restructuring that became effective October 1, 2001. Laclede Group is committed to providing reliable natural gas service through its regulated core utility operations while engaging in non-regulated activities that provide sustainable growth. All of Laclede Group’s subsidiaries are wholly owned. The Regulated Gas Distribution segment includes Laclede Gas Company (Laclede Gas or the Utility), Laclede Group’s largest subsidiary and core business unit. Laclede Gas is a public utility engaged in the retail distribution and sale of natural gas. Laclede Gas is the largest natural gas distribution utility in Missouri, serving approximately 630,000 residential, commercial, and industrial customers in the City of St. Louis and parts of ten counties in eastern Missouri. The Non-Regulated Gas Marketing segment includes Laclede Energy Resources, Inc. (LER), a wholly-owned subsidiary engaged in the marketing of natural gas and related activities on a non-regulated basis. LER markets natural gas to both on-system Utility transportation customers and customers outside of Laclede Gas'

traditional service territory, including large retail and wholesale customers. As such, LER’s operations and customer base are subject to fluctuations in market conditions. Other subsidiaries provide less than 10% of consolidated revenues. As of September 30, 2009, Laclede Group had 1,762 employees, including 13 part-time employees.

 

On March 31, 2008, the Company completed the sale of 100% of its interest in its wholly-owned subsidiary SM&P Utility Resources, Inc. (SM&P) to Stripe Acquisition, Inc. (an affiliate of Kohlberg Management VI, LLC) for $85 million in cash, subject to certain closing and post-closing adjustments. SM&P was an underground facilities locating and marking business that formerly comprised Laclede Group’s Non-Regulated Services operating segment. The sales agreement included representations, warranties, and indemnification provisions customary for such transactions and was filed as an exhibit to the March 31, 2008 Form 10-Q. In accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, the results of operations for SM&P are reported as discontinued operations in the Statements of Consolidated Income.

Operating Revenues (from continuing operations) contributed by each segment for the last three fiscal years are presented below. For more detailed financial information regarding the segments, see Note 16 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

The consolidated financial statements included in this report present the consolidated financial position, results of operations, and cash flows of Laclede Group. The financial statements, notes to financial statements, and management’s discussion and analysis for Laclede Gas are included in this report as Exhibit 99.1.

 

 

During fiscal year 2009, Laclede Group issued 47,037 shares of common stock under its Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan and 127,610 shares of common stock (including 73,485 shares of restricted stock) under its Equity Incentive Plan. During fiscal year 2008, Laclede Group issued 106,436 shares of common stock under its Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan and 241,400 shares of common stock (including 62,650 shares of restricted stock) under its Equity Incentive Plan.

The information we file or furnish to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, and current reports on Form 8-K and their amendments, are available on our website,www.thelacledegroup.com, in the Investor Services section under SEC Filings as soon as reasonably practical after the information is filed or furnished to the SEC.

REGULATED GAS DISTRIBUTION

NATURAL GAS SUPPLY

The Utility focuses its gas supply portfolio around a number of large natural gas suppliers with equity ownership or control of assets strategically situated to complement Laclede’s regionally diverse firm transportation arrangements.

Laclede Gas’ fundamental gas supply strategy is to meet the two-fold objective of 1) ensuring that the gas supplies it acquires are dependable and will be delivered when needed and, 2) insofar as is compatible with that dependability, purchasing gas that is economically priced. In structuring its natural gas supply portfolio, Laclede Gas continues to focus on natural gas assets that are strategically positioned to meet the Utility’s primary objectives. Laclede Gas utilizes both Mid-Continent and Gulf Coast gas sources to provide a level of supply diversity that facilitates the optimization of pricing differentials as well as protecting against the potential of regional supply disruptions.

In fiscal year 2009, Laclede Gas purchased natural gas from 26 different suppliers to meet current gas sales and storage injection requirements. In addition to working with major producers, the Utility has entered into agreements with suppliers that are taking advantage of improved drilling techniques and advancing technologies, which allow Laclede Gas to be flexible in meeting the needs of its customers. Natural gas purchased by Laclede Gas for delivery to our utility service area through the Mississippi River Transmission Corporation (MRT) system totaled 60.2 billion cubic feet (Bcf). The Utility also holds firm transportation on several other interstate pipeline systems that provide access to gas supplies upstream of MRT. In addition to deliveries from MRT, 10.0 Bcf of gas was purchased on the Panhandle Eastern Pipe Line Company system, and 10.8 Bcf on the Southern Star Central Pipeline system. Some of the Utility’s commercial and industrial customers purchased their own gas and delivered 15.5 Bcf to Laclede Gas for transportation to them through the Utility’s distribution system.

The fiscal year 2009 peak day sendout of natural gas to utility customers, including transportation customers, occurred on January 15, 2009, when the average temperature was 5 degrees Fahrenheit. On that day, our customers consumed 0.984 Bcf of natural gas. About 75% of this peak day demand was met with natural gas transported to St. Louis through the MRT, Panhandle, and Southern Star transportation systems, and the other 25% was met from the Utility’s on-system storage and peak shaving resources.

UNDERGROUND NATURAL GAS STORAGE

Laclede Gas has a contractual right to store 23.1 Bcf of gas in MRT’s storage facility located in Unionville, Louisiana. MRT’s tariffs allow injections into storage from May 16 through November 15 and require the withdrawal from storage of all but 2.2 Bcf from November 16 through May 15.

In addition, Laclede Gas supplements flowing pipeline gas with natural gas withdrawn from its own underground storage field located in St. Louis and St. Charles Counties in Missouri. The field is designed to provide 0.30 Bcf of natural gas withdrawals on a peak day and annual withdrawals of approximately 4 Bcf of gas based on the inventory level that Laclede plans to maintain.

REGULATORY MATTERS

There were several significant regulatory developments over the past year. For more details, please see the Regulatory Mattersdiscussion in the Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, on page 31 of this Form 10-K.

OTHER PERTINENT MATTERS

The business of Laclede Gas has monopoly characteristics in that it is the only distributor of natural gas within its franchised service area. The principal competition is the local electric company. Other competitors in Laclede Gas’ service area include suppliers of fuel oil, coal, propane in outlying areas, natural gas pipelines which can directly connect to large volume customers, and in a portion of downtown St. Louis, a district steam system.

Laclede Gas’ residential, commercial, and small industrial markets represent approximately 85% of the Utility’s revenue. Given the current adequate level of natural gas supply and market conditions, Laclede believes that the relative comparison of natural gas equipment and operating costs with those of competitive fuels will not change significantly in the foreseeable future, and that these markets will continue to be supplied by natural gas. In the new multi-family and commercial rental markets, Laclede Gas’ competitive exposure is presently limited to space and water heating applications. Certain alternative heating systems can be cost competitive in traditional markets, but the performance and reliability of natural gas systems have contained the growth of these alternatives.

Coal is price competitive as a fuel source for very large boiler plant loads, but environmental requirements for coal have shifted the economic advantage to natural gas. Oil and propane can be used to fuel boiler loads and certain direct-fired process applications, but these fuels require on-site storage, thus limiting their competitiveness. In certain cases, district steam has been competitive with gas for downtown St. Louis area heating users. Laclede Gas offers gas transportation service to its large user industrial and commercial customers. The tariff approved for that type of service produces a margin similar to that which Laclede Gas would have received under its regular sales rates.

*****

Laclede Gas is subject to various environmental laws and regulations that, to date, have not materially affected the Company’s financial position and results of operations. For a detailed discussion of environmental matters, see Note 17 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements on page 80.

*****

Laclede Gas has labor agreements with Locals 11-6 and 11-194 of the United Steel, Paper and Forestry, Rubber, Manufacturing, Energy, Allied-Industrial and Service Workers International Union, which represent approximately 64% of Laclede Gas’ employees. The agreements expire at midnight on July 31, 2012.

The Missouri Natural Division of Laclede Gas has labor agreements with Local 884 of the United Steel, Paper and Forestry, Rubber, Manufacturing, Energy, Allied-Industrial and Service Workers International Union, which represents approximately 5% of Laclede Gas’ employees. On April 15, 2009, new four-year labor agreements were reached replacing the prior agreements which expired on that same date. The agreements, which expire at midnight on April 14, 2013, include revisions to the defined benefit pension plan formula, changes in wage rates and work rules, and other modifications that enable the Utility to provide high quality service to its customers and control operating costs while continuing to provide competitive wages, pension, and healthcare benefits to its employees.

*****

Revenues, therms sold and transported, and customers of Laclede Gas for the last three fiscal years are as follows:

*****

Laclede Gas has franchises in the more than 90 communities where it provides service with terms varying from five years to an indefinite duration. Generally, a franchise allows Laclede Gas, among other things, to install pipes and construct other facilities in the community. The Utility has franchises for all but one of the communities in which it serves. All of the franchises are free from unduly burdensome restrictions and are adequate for the conduct of Laclede Gas’ current public utility business in the State of Missouri. The Utility is currently working to renew its franchise with the community in which it currently does not have one and does not anticipate any interruption in service to this community.

NON-REGULATED GAS MARKETING

LER, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Laclede Investment, LLC, and Laclede Group’s primary non-regulated business, is engaged in the marketing of natural gas and providing energy services to both on-system Utility transportation customers and customers outside of Laclede Gas’ traditional service area. During fiscal year 2009, LER utilized 13 interstate pipelines and more than 70 suppliers to market natural gas to its customers, including large retail and wholesale customers in the Midwest. Furthermore, LER served more than 100 retail customers and 80 wholesale customers. Through its retail operations, LER offers natural gas marketing services to large industrial customers, while its wholesale business consists of buying and selling natural gas to other marketers, producers, local distribution companies, pipelines, and municipalities.

As part of its long-term strategy to grow within its current geographic footprint in the Midwest, LER has continued to increase its pipeline transportation capacity to accommodate customer demand for access to natural gas supplies across the region. These supplies are necessary for fulfilling seasonal needs such as heating and power generation and year-round needs such as an industrial fuel source. LER’s wholesale business, which continues to grow, currently represents approximately 85% of LER’s operating revenues. Although fiscal year 2009 operating revenues were significantly lower than in fiscal year 2008, due to overall lower wholesale natural gas prices, LER reported significantly higher sales volumes, largely as a result of the acquisition of pipeline transportation capacity prior to the 2008-2009 winter. The last six months of fiscal year 2009 was a particularly active period in the upstream markets, as major industry pipelines expanded to connect gas supplies in the large gas-producing states such as Colorado, Texas, and Oklahoma to states such as Louisiana, Alabama, and Ohio. This new infrastructure is impacting the pricing dynamics of the marketplace. These changes are likely to create both challenges and new opportunities for LER in the future. LER is committed to respond to these recent changes and continue its business-building activities. LER’s revenues and sales volumes for the last three fiscal years are as follows:

OTHER SUBSIDIARIES

Laclede Pipeline Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Laclede Group, operates a pipeline under Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) jurisdiction. This pipeline connects the propane storage and vaporization facilities of Laclede Gas to third-party propane supply terminal facilities located in Illinois, which allows Laclede Gas to receive propane that is vaporized to supplement its natural gas supply and meet peak demands on its distribution system. Laclede Pipeline also provides transportation services to third parties.

Laclede Investment LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Laclede Group, invests in other enterprises and has made loans to several joint ventures engaged in real estate development.

Laclede Gas Family Services, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Laclede Energy Resources, Inc., is a registered insurance agency in the State of Missouri.

Laclede Development Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Laclede Group, participates in real estate development, primarily through joint ventures.

Laclede Venture Corp., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Laclede Development Company, offers services for the compression of natural gas to third parties who desire to use or to sell compressed natural gas for use in vehicles.

The lines of business that constitute the Other activities of the corporate family are not considered separately reportable operating segments as defined by current accounting standards.

Item 1A. Risk Factors

Laclede Group’s business and financial results are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including those set forth below. The risks described below are those the Company considers to be the most material.

RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES THAT RELATE TO THE BUSINESS AND FINANCIAL RESULTS OF LACLEDE GROUP AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

As a holding company, Laclede Group depends on its operating subsidiaries to meet its financial obligations.

Laclede Group is a holding company with no significant assets other than cash investments and the stock of its operating subsidiaries. Laclede Group, and Laclede Gas prior to Laclede Group’s formation, have paid dividends continuously since 1946. However, Laclede Group relies exclusively on dividends from its subsidiaries, on intercompany loans from its non-regulated subsidiaries, and on the repayments of principal and interest from intercompany loans made to its subsidiaries for its cash flows. Laclede Group’s ability to pay dividends to its shareholders is dependent on the ability of its subsidiaries to generate sufficient net income and cash flows to pay upstream dividends and make loans or loan repayments to Laclede Group. Laclede Group’s cash flows for fiscal year 2008 included proceeds from the sale of its wholly-owned subsidiary, SM&P.

A downgrade in Laclede Group’s credit ratings could negatively affect its ability to access capital.

Currently, Laclede Group’s corporate ratings are A by Standard & Poor’s and A- by Fitch. Laclede Group has working capital lines of credit to meet the short-term liquidity needs of its subsidiaries. If the rating agencies lowered Laclede Group’s credit rating, particularly below investment grade, it might significantly limit its ability to borrow and would increase its costs of borrowing. Laclede Group’s ability to borrow and costs of borrowing have a direct impact on its subsidiaries’ ability to execute operating strategies.

Risk of unexpected losses may adversely affect Laclede Group’s financial position and results of operations.

As with most businesses, there are operations and business risks inherent in the activities of Laclede Group’s subsidiaries. If, in the normal course of business, Laclede Group becomes a party to litigation, such litigation could result in substantial monetary judgments, fines, or penalties or be resolved on unfavorable terms. In accordance with customary practice, Laclede Group and its subsidiaries maintain insurance against a significant portion of, but not all, risks and losses. To the extent a loss is not fully covered by insurance, that loss could adversely affect the Company’s financial position and results of operations.

RISKS THAT RELATE TO THE REGULATED GAS DISTRIBUTION SEGMENT

Risks related to the regulation of the Utility business could impact rates it is able to charge, costs, and profitability.

The Missouri Public Service Commission (MoPSC or Commission) regulates many aspects of the Utility’s distribution operations, including construction and maintenance of facilities, operations, safety, the rates that the Utility may charge customers, the terms of service to its customers, and the rate of return that it is allowed to realize; as well as the accounting treatment for certain aspects of its operations. For further discussion of these accounting matters, see Critical Accounting Policies pertaining to Laclede Gas, beginning on page 28. Laclede Gas’ ability to obtain rate increases and rate supplements to maintain the current rate of return depends upon regulatory discretion. There can be no assurance that it will be able to obtain rate increases or rate supplements or continue earning the current authorized rates of return. In addition, the FERC regulates the interstate transportation of natural gas from the wellhead to the Utility’s city gate and establishes the terms and conditions under which it may use interstate gas pipeline and storage capacity to purchase, store, and transport natural gas.

Laclede Gas’ liquidity and, in certain circumstances, its results of operations could be adversely affected by the cost of purchasing natural gas during periods in which natural gas prices are rising significantly.

Laclede Gas’ tariff rate schedules contain Purchased Gas Adjustment (PGA) Clauses that permit the Utility to file for rate adjustments to recover the cost of purchased gas. Changes in the cost of purchased gas are flowed through to customers and may affect uncollectible amounts and cash flows and can therefore impact the amount of capital resources. Currently, Laclede Gas is allowed to adjust the gas cost component of its rates up to four times each year. The Utility must make a mandatory gas cost adjustment at the beginning of the winter, in November, and during the next twelve months it may make up to three additional discretionary gas cost adjustments, so long as each of these adjustments is separated by at least two months.

The MoPSC typically approves the Utility’s PGA changes on an interim basis, subject to refund and the outcome of a subsequent audit and prudence review. Due to such review process, there is a risk of a disallowance of full recovery of these costs. Any material disallowance of purchased gas costs would adversely affect revenues. Increases in the prices the Utility charges for gas may also adversely affect revenues because they could lead customers to reduce usage and cause some customers to have trouble paying the resulting higher bills. These higher prices may increase bad debt expenses and ultimately reduce earnings. Laclede Gas has used short-term borrowings in the past to finance storage inventories and purchased gas costs, and expects to do so in the future.

Laclede Gas may be adversely affected by economic conditions.

Periods of slowed economic activity, such as that currently being experienced, generally result in decreased energy consumption, particularly by industrial and large commercial companies. As a consequence, national or regional recessions or other downturns in economic activity could adversely affect Laclede Gas’ revenues and cash flows or restrict its future growth. Economic conditions in its service territory may also adversely impact the Utility’s ability to collect its accounts receivable resulting in an increase to bad debt expenses.

Hedging procedures may not fully protect Laclede Gas sales and results of operations from volatility, and the use of derivative contracts in the normal course of business could result in financial losses.

To lower financial exposure to commodity price fluctuations, Laclede Gas enters into contracts to hedge the forward commodity price of its natural gas supplies. As part of this strategy, the Utility may use fixed-price, forward, physical purchase contracts, futures, and option contracts traded on the New York Mercantile Exchange. However, the Utility does not hedge the entire exposure of energy assets or positions to market price volatility, and the coverage will vary over time. Any costs, gains, or losses experienced through hedging procedures, including carrying costs, generally flow through the PGA Clause, thereby limiting the Utility’s exposure to earnings volatility. However, variations in the timing of collections of such gas costs under the PGA Clause and the effect of cash payments for margin deposits associated with the Utility’s use of natural gas derivative instruments may cause short-term cash requirements to vary. These procedures remain subject to prudence review by the MoPSC.

Laclede Gas is dependent on bank lines of credit and continued access to capital markets to successfully execute its operating strategies.

In addition to longer term debt that is issued to the public by the Utility under its mortgage and deed of trust dated February 1, 1945, Laclede Gas has relied, and continues to rely, upon shorter term bank borrowings or commercial paper supported by bank lines of credit to finance the execution of a portion of its operating strategies. The Utility is dependent on these capital sources to purchase its natural gas supply and maintain its properties. The availability and cost of these credit sources is cyclical and these capital sources may not remain available to the Utility, or it may not be able to obtain funds at a reasonable cost in the future. Laclede Gas’ ability to borrow under its existing lines of credit depends on its compliance with the Utility’s obligations under the lines of credit. Laclede Gas’ ability to issue commercial paper supported by its lines of credit, to issue long-term bonds, or to obtain new lines of credit also depends on current conditions in the credit markets.

A downgrade in the Utility’s credit rating could negatively affect its ability to access capital.

Standard & Poor’s rating group, Moody’s Investors Service, and Fitch Ratings from time to time implement new requirements for various ratings levels. To maintain its current credit ratings in light of any new requirements, Laclede Gas may find it necessary to take steps to change its business plans in ways that may affect its results of operations.

The following table shows the current ratings assigned by S&P, Moody’s, and Fitch to certain of our outstanding debt:

If the rating agencies lowered the Utility’s ratings, particularly below investment grade, it could significantly limit its access to the commercial paper market and would increase its costs of borrowing. In addition, Laclede Gas would likely be required to pay a higher interest rate in future financings and the Utility’s potential pool of investors and funding sources would likely decrease. Credit ratings are an independent assessment of the Utility’s ability to pay its obligations. Consequently, real or anticipated changes in credit ratings will generally affect the market value of the specific debt instruments that are rated.

Transporting, distributing, and storing natural gas involves numerous risks that may result in accidents and other operating risks and costs.

There are inherent in gas distribution activities a variety of hazards and operations risks, such as leaks, accidental explosions, and mechanical problems, that could cause substantial financial losses. In addition, these risks could result in loss of human life, significant damage to property, environmental pollution, impairment of operations, and substantial losses to Laclede Gas. The location of pipelines and storage facilities near populated areas, including residential areas, commercial business centers, and industrial sites, could increase the level of damages resulting from these risks. These activities may subject the Utility to litigation or administrative proceedings from time to time. Such litigation or proceedings could result in substantial monetary judgments, fines, or penalties against the Utility or be resolved on unfavorable terms. In accordance with customary industry practices, Laclede Gas maintains insurance against a significant portion, but not all, of these risks and losses. To the extent that the occurrence of any of these events is not fully covered by insurance, it could adversely affect the Utility’s financial position and results of operations.

Increases in the wholesale costs of purchased natural gas supplies may adversely impact the Utility’s competitive position compared with alternative energy sources.

Laclede Gas is the only distributor of natural gas within its franchised service area. Nevertheless, rising wholesale natural gas prices compared with prices for electricity, fuel oil, coal, propane, or other energy sources may affect the Utility’s retention of natural gas customers and adversely impact its financial position and results of operations.

Significantly warmer-than-normal weather conditions, the effects of global warming and climate change, and other factors that influence customer usage may affect the Utility’s sale of heating energy and adversely impact its financial position and results of operations.

Laclede Gas’ earnings are primarily generated by the sale of heating energy. The Utility has a weather mitigation rate design, approved by the MoPSC, that provides better assurance of the recovery of the Utility’s fixed costs and margins during winter months despite variations in sales volumes due to the impacts of weather and other factors that affect customer usage. However, significantly warmer-than-normal weather conditions in the Utility’s service area and other factors, such as global warming and climate change, may result in reduced profitability and decreased cash flows attributable to lower gas sales levels. Furthermore, continuation of the weather mitigation rate design is subject to regulatory discretion. In addition, the promulgation of regulations by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or the potential enactment of Congressional legislation addressing global warming and climate change may result in future additional compliance costs that could impact the Utility’s financial position and results of operations.

Regional supply/demand fluctuations and changes in national pipeline infrastructure, as well as regulatory discretion, may adversely affect Laclede Gas’ ability to profit from off-system sales and capacity release.

Laclede Gas’ income from off-system sales and capacity release is subject to fluctuations in market conditions and changing supply and demand conditions in areas the Utility holds pipeline capacity rights. Specific factors impacting the Utility’s income from off-system sales and capacity release include the availability of attractively-priced natural gas supply, availability of pipeline capacity, and market demand. Income from off-system sales and capacity release is shared with customers. Effective October 1, 2007, the Utility is allowed to retain 15% to 25% of the first $6 million in annual income earned (depending on the level of income earned) and 30% of income exceeding $6 million annually. The Utility’s ability to retain such income in the future is subject to regulatory discretion in a base rate proceeding.

Workforce risks could affect Laclede Gas’ financial results.

Laclede Gas is subject to various workforce risks, including, but not limited to, the risk that it will be unable to attract and retain qualified personnel; that it will be unable to effectively transfer the knowledge and expertise of an aging workforce to new personnel as those workers retire; and that it will be unable to reach collective bargaining arrangements with the unions that represent certain of its workers, which could result in work stoppages.

Catastrophic events could adversely affect Laclede Gas’ facilities and operations.

Catastrophic events such as fires, earthquakes, explosions, floods, tornados, terrorists acts, or other similar occurrences could adversely affect Laclede Gas’ facilities, operations, financial condition, and results of operations.

RISKS THAT RELATE TO THE NON-REGULATED GAS MARKETING SEGMENT

Risks of increased competition, regional fluctuations in natural gas commodity prices, and new national pipeline infrastructure projects may adversely impact LER’s future profitability.

Competition in the marketplace and regional fluctuations in natural gas commodity prices have a direct impact on LER’s business. Changing market conditions caused by new pipeline infrastructure may adversely impact LER’s sales margins or affect LER’s ability to serve certain wholesale customers, thereby reducing wholesale sales profitability and/or increasing certain credit requirements caused by reductions in netting capability. Although the FERC regulates the interstate transportation of natural gas and establishes the general terms and conditions under which LER may use interstate gas pipeline capacity to purchase and transport natural gas, LER must occasionally re-negotiate its transportation agreements with a concentrated group of pipeline companies. Re-negotiated terms of new agreements may impact LER’s future profitability.

LER relies on its cash flows, parental guarantees, and netting capability to satisfy its credit and working capital requirements. Reduced access to credit or increased credit requirements may limit LER’s ability to enter into certain transactions. In addition, LER has concentrations of counterparty credit risk in that a significant portion of its transactions are with (or are associated with) energy producers, utility companies, and pipelines. These concentrations of counterparties have the potential to affect the Company’s overall exposure to credit risk, either positively or negatively, in that each of these three groups may be affected similarly by changes in economic, industry, or other conditions. LER closely monitors its credit exposure and, although uncollectible amounts have not been significant, increased counterparty defaults are possible and may result in financial losses and/or capital limitations.

Risk management policies, including the use of derivative instruments, may not fully protect LER’s sales and results of operations from volatility and may result in financial losses.

LER manages the price risk associated with fixed-price commitments for the purchase or sale of natural gas by either closely matching the offsetting physical purchase or sale of natural gas at fixed prices or through the use of exchange-traded futures contracts to lock in margins. These exchange-traded futures contracts are generally designated as cash flow hedges of forecasted transactions. However, market conditions and regional price changes may cause ineffective portions of matched positions to result in financial losses. Additionally, to the extent that LER’s natural gas commitments do not qualify for the normal purchases or normal sales designation (or the designation is not elected), the contracts are recorded as derivatives at fair value each period. Accordingly, the associated gains and losses are reported directly in earnings and may cause volatility in reported results of operations.

Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments

None.

Item 2. Properties

The principal utility properties of Laclede Gas consist of more than 16,000 miles of gas main and related service pipes, meters, and regulators. Other physical properties include regional office buildings and a holder station. Extensive underground natural gas and propane storage facilities and equipment are located in an area in North St. Louis County extending under the Missouri River into St. Charles County. Substantially all of Laclede Gas’ utility plant is subject to the liens of its mortgage.

All of the utility properties of Laclede Gas are held in fee, or by easement, or under lease agreements. The principal lease agreements include underground storage rights that are of indefinite duration and the headquarters office building. The current lease on the headquarters office building extends through February 2015 with the option to renew for up to five additional years.

For further information on Laclede Gas’ leases see Note 17 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements on page 80.

Other properties of Laclede Group, including LER, do not constitute a significant portion of its properties.

Item 3. Legal Proceedings

For a description of environmental matters, see Note 17 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements on page 80. For a description of pending regulatory matters of Laclede Gas, see the Regulatory Matters discussion in the Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, on page 31.

Laclede Group and its subsidiaries are involved in litigation, claims, and investigations arising in the normal course of business. While the results of such litigation cannot be predicted with certainty, management, after discussion with counsel, believes the final outcome will not have a material adverse effect on the consolidated financial position or results of operations reflected in the consolidated financial statements presented herein.

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

There were no matters submitted to a vote of security holders during the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2009.

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF REGISTRANTS – Listed below are executive officers as defined by the SEC for Laclede Group. Their ages, at September 30, 2009, and positions are listed below along with their business experience during the past five years.

Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters, and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

Laclede Group’s common stock trades on The New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “LG”. The high and the low sales price for the common stock for each quarter in the two most recent fiscal years are:

The number of holders of record as of September 30, 2009 was 4,952.

Dividends declared on the common stock for the two most recent fiscal years were:

For disclosures relating to securities authorized for issuance under equity compensation plans, see Item 12, page 85.

Laclede Group periodically purchases common stock of Laclede Gas with the price set at the book value of Laclede Gas common stock as of the most recently completed fiscal quarter. The details on sales of common stock of Laclede Gas to Laclede Group during the past three fiscal years are set forth below:

The proceeds from Laclede Gas’ sales of stock were used to reduce its short-term borrowings. Exemption from registration was claimed under Section 4(2) of the Securities Act of 1933.

Item 6. Selected Financial Data

The Laclede Group, Inc.

Item 6. Selected Financial Data (continued)

The Laclede Group, Inc.

Laclede Gas Company’s Selected Financial Data is included in Exhibit 99.1.

ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

THE LACLEDE GROUP, INC.

INTRODUCTION

This management’s discussion analyzes the financial condition and results of operations of The Laclede Group, Inc. (Laclede Group or the Company) and its subsidiaries. It includes management’s view of factors that affect its business, explanations of past financial results including changes in earnings and costs from the prior year periods, and their effects on the Company’s overall financial condition and liquidity.

The Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations should be read in conjunction with the Company’s consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Overview

Laclede Group’s earnings are primarily derived from the regulated activities of its largest subsidiary, Laclede Gas Company (Laclede Gas or the Utility), Missouri’s largest natural gas distribution company. Laclede Gas is regulated by the Missouri Public Service Commission (MoPSC or Commission) and serves the City of St. Louis and parts of ten counties in eastern Missouri. Laclede Gas delivers natural gas to retail customers at rates and in accordance with tariffs authorized by the MoPSC. The Utility’s earnings are primarily generated by the sale of heating energy. The Utility’s weather mitigation rate design lessens the impact of weather volatility on Laclede Gas customers during cold winters and stabilizes the Utility’s earnings by recovering fixed costs more evenly during the heating season. Due to the seasonal nature of the business of Laclede Gas, Laclede Group’s earnings are seasonal in nature and are typically concentrated in the November through April period, which generally corresponds with the heating season.

On March 31, 2008, the Company completed the sale of 100% of its interest in its wholly-owned subsidiary SM&P Utility Resources, Inc. (SM&P) to Stripe Acquisition, Inc. (an affiliate of Kohlberg Management VI, LLC) for $85 million in cash, subject to certain closing and post-closing adjustments. SM&P was an underground facilities locating and marking business that formerly comprised Laclede Group’s Non-Regulated Services operating segment. The sales agreement included representations, warranties, and indemnification provisions customary for such transactions and was filed as an exhibit to the March 31, 2008 Form 10-Q. In accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, the results of operations for SM&P are reported as discontinued operations in the Statements of Consolidated Income.

Laclede Energy Resources, Inc. (LER) is engaged in the marketing of natural gas and related activities on a non-regulated basis. LER markets natural gas to both on-system Utility transportation customers and customers outside of Laclede Gas’ traditional service territory, including large retail and wholesale customers. LER’s operations and customer base are more subject to fluctuations in market conditions than the Utility.

Other subsidiaries provide less than 10% of consolidated revenues.

Based on the nature of the business of the Company and its subsidiaries, as well as current economic conditions, management focuses on the following key variables in evaluating the financial condition and results of operations and managing the business:

Regulated Gas Distribution Segment:

Non-Regulated Gas Marketing Segment:

Further information regarding how management seeks to manage these key variables is discussed below.

 

Laclede Group’s strategy continues to include efforts to improve the performance of its core Utility, while developing non-regulated businesses and taking a measured approach in the pursuit of additional growth opportunities that complement the Utility business.

As for the Utility, improving performance and mitigating the impact of weather fluctuations on Laclede Gas’ customers while improving the ability to recover its authorized distribution costs and return continue to be a fundamental component of Laclede Group’s strategy. The Utility’s distribution costs are the essential, primarily fixed expenditures it must incur to operate and maintain more than 16,000 miles of mains and services comprising its natural gas distribution system and related storage facilities. The Utility’s distribution costs include wages and employee benefit costs, depreciation and maintenance expenses, and other regulated utility operating expenses, excluding natural and propane gas expense. Distribution costs are considered in the ratemaking process and recovery of these types of costs is included in revenues generated through the Utility’s tariff rates, as approved by the MoPSC. As previously reported, Laclede Gas has undertaken an evaluation of the Utility’s natural gas storage field, which was developed more than 50 years ago, to assess the field’s current and future capabilities. While not yet complete, the assessment has provided information that should result in improved efficiencies in managing the operation of the field. Based on this initial assessment, inventory balances included in the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of September 30, 2009 have been reclassified consistent with the results of the evaluation and management’s expectations regarding the future operation of the storage field. In addition, Laclede Gas is working continually to improve its ability to provide reliable natural gas service at a reasonable cost, while maintaining and building a secure and dependable infrastructure. The settlement of the Utility’s 2007 rate case resulted in enhancements to the Utility’s weather mitigation rate design that better ensure the recovery of its fixed costs and margins despite variations in sales volumes due to the impacts of weather and other factors that affect customer usage.

The Utility’s income from off-system sales and capacity release remains subject to fluctuations in market conditions. Effective October 1, 2007, the Utility is allowed to retain 15% to 25% of the first $6 million in annual income earned (depending on the level of income earned) and 30% of income exceeding $6 million annually. Some of the factors impacting the level of off-system sales include the availability and cost of the Utility’s natural gas supply, the weather in its service area, and the weather in other markets. When Laclede Gas’ service area experiences warmer-than-normal weather while other markets experience colder weather or supply constraints, some of the Utility’s natural gas supply is available for off-system sales and there may be a demand for such supply in other markets. See the Regulatory Matters section on page 31 of this report for additional information on regulatory issues relative to the Utility.

While the price of natural gas has moderated recently, Laclede Gas continues to work actively to reduce the impact of wholesale natural gas prices on its costs by strategically structuring its natural gas supply portfolio to increase its gas supply availability and pricing alternatives and through the use of derivative instruments to protect its customers from significant changes in the commodity price of natural gas. Nevertheless, the overall cost of purchased gas remains subject to fluctuations in market conditions. The Utility’s Purchased Gas Adjustment (PGA) Clause allows Laclede Gas to flow through to customers, subject to prudence review, the cost of purchased gas supplies, including costs, cost reductions, and related carrying costs associated with the use of derivative instruments to hedge the purchase price of natural gas, as well as gas inventory carrying costs. The Utility believes it will continue to be able to obtain sufficient gas supply. The price of natural gas supplies and other economic conditions may affect sales volumes, due to the conservation efforts of customers, and cash flows associated with the timing of collection of gas costs and related accounts receivable from customers. Long-term increases in the wholesale cost of natural gas supplies may adversely impact the Utility’s competitive position compared with alternative energy sources.

The Utility relies on both short-term credit and long-term capital markets, as well as cash flows from operations, to satisfy its seasonal cash requirements and fund its cost of capital expenditures. Laclede Gas’ ability to issue commercial paper supported by lines of credit, to issue long-term bonds, or to obtain new lines of credit is dependent on current conditions in the credit and capital markets. Management continues to focus on maintaining a strong balance sheet and believes it currently has adequate access to credit and capital markets and will have sufficient capital resources to meet its foreseeable obligations. See theLiquidity and Capital Resources section on page 33 for additional information.

LER continues to focus on growing its markets on a long-term and sustainable basis by providing both on-system Utility transportation customers and customers outside of Laclede Gas’ traditional service area with another choice in non-regulated natural gas suppliers. LER is working to assemble the team, technology, and resources necessary to expand its geographic service area and the range of services that it now provides. Nevertheless, income from LER’s operations is more subject to fluctuations in market conditions than the Utility’s operations. LER’s business is directly impacted by the effects of competition in the marketplace and the impact of new pipeline infrastructure on regional commodity prices of natural gas.

In addition to its operating cash flows, LER relies on parental guarantees to secure its purchase and sales obligations of natural gas. A large portion of LER’s receivables are from customers in the energy industry. In addition, LER may enter into netting arrangements with its energy counterparties to reduce overall credit and collateral exposure. Although LER’s uncollectible amounts are closely monitored and have not been significant, increases in uncollectible amounts from customers are possible and could adversely affect LER’s liquidity and results.

LER carefully monitors the creditworthiness of counterparties to its transactions. LER performs in-house credit reviews of potential customers and requires prepayments or letters of credit from non-investment grade customers. Credit limits for customers are established and monitored.

EARNINGS

Overview – Net Income (Loss) by Operating Segment

(Millions, After-tax )

Laclede Group’s consolidated net income was $64.2 million in fiscal year 2009, compared with $77.9 million in fiscal year 2008, and $49.8 million in fiscal year 2007. Net income decreased $13.7 million, or 17.6%, in fiscal year 2009 (compared with fiscal year 2008) primarily due to the net effect of the one-time gain on the March 31, 2008 sale and operations of SM&P, partially offset by increased income from continuing operations. Net income increased $28.1 million, or 56.4%, in fiscal year 2008 (compared with fiscal year 2007) primarily due to the fiscal year 2008 gain on the sale of SM&P and increased income from continuing operations.

Basic and diluted earnings per share were $2.93 and $2.92, respectively, for fiscal year 2009 compared with basic and diluted earnings per share of $3.60 and $3.58, respectively, for fiscal year 2008, and $2.32 and $2.31, respectively for fiscal year 2007. The year-to-year variations in earnings per share were primarily due to the changes in net income in each period.

Income from Continuing Operations

Laclede Group’s income from continuing operations was $64.2 million in fiscal year 2009, compared with $57.5 million in fiscal year 2008, and $45.8 million in fiscal year 2007. Income from continuing operations increased $6.7 million, or 11.7%, in fiscal year 2009 (compared with fiscal year 2008) primarily due to improved results reported by Laclede Group’s Non-Regulated Gas Marketing segment, partially offset by lower earnings reported by Laclede Group’s Regulated Gas Distribution segment. Income from continuing operations increased $11.7 million in fiscal year 2008 (compared with fiscal year 2007) primarily due to improved results reported by both Laclede Group’s Regulated Gas Distribution segment and its Non-Regulated Gas Marketing segment.

Basic and diluted earnings per share from continuing operations were $2.93 and $2.92, respectively, for fiscal year 2009, compared with basic and diluted earnings per share of $2.66 and $2.64, respectively, for fiscal year 2008, and $2.13 and $2.12, respectively, for fiscal year 2007. Variations in income from continuing operations were primarily attributable to the factors described below.

Regulated Gas Distribution net income decreased by $5.9 million in 2009, compared with 2008. The decrease in net income was primarily due to the following factors (quantified on a pre-tax basis, except for the income tax item):

These factors were partially offset by higher Infrastructure System Replacement Surcharge (ISRS) revenues totaling $3.8 million.

The Non-Regulated Gas Marketing segment reported earnings totaling $31.4 million for fiscal year 2009, an increase in earnings of $12.1 million compared with fiscal year 2008. The increased earnings were primarily due to LER’s increased sales volumes primarily attributable to its acquisition of additional firm pipeline transportation capacity prior to the 2008 – 2009 winter. This capacity, along with favorable natural gas costs, supported 49% higher sales volumes and greater margins in fiscal year 2009 as compared with fiscal year 2008. These factors were partially offset by the effect of a benefit from the reversal of certain tax-related expenses totaling $1.3 million during fiscal year 2008.

Regulated Gas Distribution net income increased by $7.0 million in 2008, compared with 2007. The increase in net income was primarily due to the following factors (quantified on a pre-tax basis, except for the income tax item):

These factors were partially offset by:

The Non-Regulated Gas Marketing segment reported earnings totaling $19.3 million for fiscal year 2008, an increase in earnings of $6.0 million compared with fiscal year 2007. The increased earnings were primarily due to improved margins on sales of natural gas by LER, 15% higher sales volumes, and the effect of a reversal of tax-related expenses during fiscal year 2008.

Regulated Gas Distribution Operating Revenues

Laclede Gas passes on to Utility customers (subject to prudence review) increases and decreases in the wholesale cost of natural gas in accordance with its PGA Clause. The volatility of the wholesale natural gas market results in fluctuations from period to period in the recorded levels of, among other items, revenues and natural gas cost expense. Nevertheless, increases and decreases in the cost of gas associated with system gas sales volumes have no direct effect on net revenues and net income.

Regulated Gas Distribution Operating Revenues for fiscal year 2009 decreased $74.3 million compared to fiscal year 2008. Temperatures experienced in the Utility’s service area during 2009 were 1.8% warmer than the same period last year and 1.5% warmer than normal. Total system therms sold and transported were 0.91 billion for fiscal year 2009 compared with 0.93 billion for fiscal year 2008. Total off-system therms sold and transported were 0.16 billion for fiscal year 2009 compared with 0.14 billion for fiscal year 2008. The decrease in Regulated Gas Distribution Operating Revenues was primarily attributable to the following factors:

Regulated Gas Distribution Operating Revenues for fiscal year 2008 decreased $3.3 million compared to fiscal year 2007. Temperatures experienced in the Utility’s service area during 2008 were 6.8% colder than fiscal year 2007, but 1.1% warmer than normal. Total system therms sold and transported were 0.93 billion for fiscal year 2008 compared with 0.91 billion for fiscal year 2007. Total off-system therms sold and transported were 0.14 billion for fiscal year 2008 compared with 0.21 billion for fiscal year 2007. The decrease in Regulated Gas Distribution Operating Revenues was primarily attributable to the following factors:

Regulated Gas Distribution Operating Expenses

Regulated Gas Distribution Operating Expenses in fiscal year 2009 decreased $65.1 million, or 6.2%, from fiscal year 2008. Natural and propane gas expense decreased $70.1 million from last year’s level, primarily attributable to lower off-system gas expense, decreased rates charged by our suppliers, and lower volumes purchased for sendout. Other operation and maintenance expenses increased $3.9 million, or 2.3%, primarily due to increases in compensation expenses, higher maintenance charges, and increased injuries and damages expense, partially offset by a decrease in distribution charges, a lower provision for uncollectible accounts, and a gain on the disposal of assets in fiscal year 2009. Depreciation and amortization expense increased $1.4 million, or 4.1%, primarily due to additional depreciable property.

Regulated Gas Distribution Operating Expenses in fiscal year 2008 decreased $11.6 million, or 1.1%, from fiscal year 2007. Natural and propane gas expense decreased $27.8 million from fiscal year 2007, primarily attributable to lower rates charged by our suppliers and lower off-system gas expense, partially offset by higher system volumes purchased for sendout. Other operation and maintenance expenses increased $14.3 million, or 9.2%, primarily due to a higher provision for uncollectible accounts, increased maintenance and distribution expenses, increased wage rates, higher legal fees, increased pension costs, and the effect of a gain on the disposal of assets recorded during fiscal year 2007. Depreciation and amortization expense increased $1.2 million, or 3.6%, primarily due to additional depreciable property.

Non-Regulated Gas Marketing Operating Revenues and Operating Expenses

Non-Regulated Gas Marketing Operating Revenues decreased $239.0 million in fiscal year 2009 from those revenues for fiscal year 2008 primarily due to lower per unit gas sales prices charged by LER, partially offset by higher sales volumes. The decrease in Non-Regulated Gas Marketing Operating Expenses of $261.1 million was primarily associated with lower prices charged by suppliers, partially offset by increased volumes purchased.

Non-Regulated Gas Marketing Operating Revenues increased $357.1 million in fiscal year 2008 from those revenues for fiscal year 2007 primarily due to higher per unit gas sales prices charged by LER and increased sales volumes. The increase in Non-Regulated Gas Marketing Operating Expenses of $349.2 million was primarily associated with higher prices charged by suppliers and increased volumes purchased.

Other Income and (Income Deductions)-Net

Other Income and (Income Deductions)-Net decreased $0.4 million in fiscal year 2009 (compared to fiscal year 2008), due to lower interest income and the effect of a benefit recognized during fiscal year 2008 from the reversal of certain tax-related expenses. These factors were largely offset by the effect of a loss on the redemption of long-term debt (primarily unamortized issuance costs) recognized during fiscal year 2008 and increased income associated with carrying costs applied to under-recoveries of gas costs. Carrying costs on under-recoveries of gas costs are recovered through the Utility’s PGA Clause.

Other Income and (Income Deductions)-Net decreased $4.9 million in fiscal year 2008 (compared to fiscal year 2007), due to higher net investment losses, a loss on the redemption of long-term debt (primarily unamortized issuance costs), lower income associated with carrying costs applied to under-recoveries of gas costs, and increased charitable donations. These factors were partially offset by a reversal of tax-related expenses and additional proceeds related to the Company’s interest, as a policyholder, in the sale of a mutual insurance company.

Interest Charges

The $0.3 million increase in interest charges in fiscal year 2009 (over fiscal year 2008) was primarily due to higher interest on long-term debt, primarily attributable to the issuance of $80.0 million principal amount of 6.35% First Mortgage Bonds on September 23, 2008. This increase was largely offset by lower interest on short-term debt. The $4.5 million decrease in interest charges in fiscal year 2008 (over fiscal year 2007) was primarily due to a reduction in interest on long-term debt resulting from the November 2007 maturity of $40 million principal amount of 7 1/2% First Mortgage Bonds, lower interest on short-term debt, and the reversal of tax-related expenses. Average short-term interest rates were 1.5% this year compared with 4.1% in fiscal year 2008 and 5.4% in fiscal year 2007. Average short-term borrowings were $207.6 million, $180.7 million, and $156.2 million for fiscal years 2009, 2008, and 2007, respectively.

Income Taxes

Income tax expense increased $6.3 million in fiscal year 2009 (over fiscal year 2008) and $4.0 million in fiscal year 2008 (over fiscal year 2007). These increases are primarily due to higher pre-tax income. The year-to-year variations also reflect the effect of lower income tax expense in fiscal year 2008 due to the recognition of previously unrecognized tax benefits.

Income from Discontinued Operations

The sale of SM&P on March 31, 2008 resulted in after-tax earnings of $25.4 million, net of associated costs of disposal. Income from Discontinued Operations for fiscal year 2008 was $20.4 million, consisting of the net effect of the sale and SM&P’s seasonal operating loss through the March 31 sale date. Income from Discontinued Operations for fiscal year 2007 was $4.0 million reflecting SM&P’s operating income for the period.

Basic and diluted earnings per share from discontinued operations were $0.94 for fiscal year 2008 and $0.19 for fiscal year 2007.

Labor Agreement

Laclede Gas has labor agreements with Locals 11-6 and 11-194 of the United Steel, Paper and Forestry, Rubber, Manufacturing, Energy, Allied-Industrial and Service Workers International Union, which represent approximately 64% of Laclede Gas’ employees. The agreements expire at midnight on July 31, 2012.

The Missouri Natural Division of Laclede Gas has labor agreements with Local 884 of the United Steel, Paper and Forestry, Rubber, Manufacturing, Energy, Allied-Industrial and Service Workers International Union, which represents approximately 5% of Laclede Gas’ employees. On April 15, 2009, new four-year labor agreements were reached replacing the prior agreements which expired on that same date. The new agreements, which expire at midnight on April 14, 2013, include revisions to the defined benefit pension plan formula, changes in wage rates and work rules, and other modifications that enable the Utility to provide high quality service to its customers and control operating costs while continuing to provide competitive wages, pension, and healthcare benefits to its employees.

Our discussion and analysis of our financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, and capital resources is based upon our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) require that we make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. We evaluate our estimates on an ongoing basis. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that we believe are reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates. We believe the following represent the more significant items requiring the use of judgment and estimates in preparing our consolidated financial statements:

The table below reflects the sensitivity of Laclede’s plans to potential changes in key assumptions:

Regulated Operations – Laclede Gas accounts for its regulated operations in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) Topic 980, “Regulated Operations.” This Topic sets forth the application of GAAP for those companies whose rates are established by or are subject to approval by an independent third-party regulator. The provisions of this accounting guidance require, among other things, that financial statements of a regulated enterprise reflect the actions of regulators, where appropriate. These actions may result in the recognition of revenues and expenses in time periods that are different than non-regulated enterprises. When this occurs, costs are deferred as assets in the balance sheet (regulatory assets) and recorded as expenses when those amounts are reflected in rates. Also, regulators can impose liabilities upon a regulated company for amounts previously collected from customers and for recovery of costs that are expected to be incurred in the future (regulatory liabilities). Management believes that the current regulatory environment supports the continued use of these regulatory accounting principles and that all regulatory assets and regulatory liabilities are recoverable or refundable through the regulatory process. Management believes the following represent the more significant items recorded through the application of this accounting guidance:

For further discussion of significant accounting policies, see Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included on page 49.

There have been several significant regulatory developments affecting Laclede Gas.

During fiscal year 2006, the MoPSC approved permanent modifications to the Cold Weather Rule affecting the disconnection and reconnection practices of utilities during the winter heating season. Those modifications included provisions to allow the Utility to obtain accounting authorizations and defer for future recovery certain costs incurred with the modifications. During fiscal year 2007, the Utility deferred for future recovery $2.7 million of costs associated with the fiscal year 2007 heating season. On October 31, 2007, the Utility filed for determination and subsequent recovery of the deferred amount. On November 16, 2007, the MoPSC directed the MoPSC Staff and the Missouri Office of Public Counsel (Public Counsel) to submit their positions regarding the Utility’s filing and on February 28, 2008, the Utility and the MoPSC Staff filed a Non-Unanimous Stipulation & Agreement in which these parties agreed to a recovery of $2.5 million of costs. Public Counsel opposed the Non-Unanimous Stipulation & Agreement and a hearing in this matter was held before the Commission. On April 17, 2008, the Commission issued its Report and Order approving the $2.5 million cost recovery recommended by the Utility and the MoPSC Staff. Consistent with the approved amount, the Utility recorded a reduction in its deferral totaling $0.2 million during the quarter ended March 31, 2008. On May 29, 2008, Public Counsel appealed the MoPSC’s Order to the Cole County, Missouri Circuit Court and on January 6, 2009, the Court issued its judgment affirming the Commission’s Order approving the Cold Weather Rule compliance cost amount that the Utility and Staff had recommended over Public Counsel’s objection. On February 9, 2009, Public Counsel appealed the Circuit Court’s affirmation of the MoPSC’s April 17, 2008 Order to the Court of Appeals for the Western District of Missouri.

On December 28, 2006, the MoPSC Staff proposed a disallowance of $7.2 million related to Laclede Gas’ recovery of its purchased gas costs applicable to fiscal year 2005. On September 14, 2007, the Staff withdrew its pursuit of $5.5 million of the disallowance it had originally proposed. The remaining $1.7 million pertains to Laclede Gas’ purchase of gas from a marketing affiliate, LER. Laclede Gas believes that the remaining portion of the proposed disallowance lacks merit and is vigorously opposing the adjustment in proceedings before the MoPSC. As such, no amount has been recorded in the financial statements for this proposed disallowance.

The MoPSC Staff has also proposed disallowances of gas costs relating to Laclede Gas purchases of gas supply from LER for fiscal years 2006 and 2007. On December 31, 2007, the MoPSC Staff proposed a disallowance of $2.8 million applicable to fiscal year 2006, and on December 31, 2008, the MoPSC Staff proposed a disallowance of $1.5 million applicable to fiscal year 2007. Laclede Gas believes that these proposed disallowances also lack merit and is vigorously opposing them in proceedings before the MoPSC. As such, no amount has been recorded in the financial statements for these proposed disallowances.

In the December 31, 2007 filing, the MoPSC Staff also raised questions regarding whether certain sales and capacity release transactions, subject to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC)’s oversight, were consistent with the FERC’s regulations and policies regarding capacity release. The Company commenced an internal review of the questions raised by the MoPSC Staff and notified the FERC Staff that it took this action. Subsequently, as a result of the internal review, the Company has provided the FERC Staff with a report regarding compliance of sales and capacity release activities with the FERC’s regulations and policies. On July 23, 2008, the FERC Staff requested additional information, which the Company provided and on February 11, 2009, the FERC Staff submitted follow-up questions to which the Company responded on February 25, 2009. On March 2, 2009, FERC Staff requested clarification of certain aspects of the Company’s February 25, 2009 response, which the Company clarified on March 4, 2009.

On July 9, 2008, Laclede Gas made a tariff filing with the MoPSC that would make the payment provisions for the restoration of gas service under the Utility’s Cold Weather Rule available to customers in the summer of 2008 and enable the Utility to increase or decrease its PGA rates to correct for any shortfall or surplus created by the difference between the gas cost portion of the Utility’s actual net bad debt write-offs and the amount of such cost that is embedded in its existing rates. The MoPSC suspended the tariff on August 5, 2008 and established a procedural schedule to consider the Utility’s filing. As a result, the Cold Weather Rule portion of the filing is now moot. A formal hearing pertaining to the bad debt portion of the filing was held on January 5, 2009. On April 15, 2009, the Commission issued its Order rejecting the Utility’s tariffs. On May 28, 2009, Laclede Gas filed for a petition with the Circuit Court of Cole County seeking judicial review of the Commission’s decision.

On November 21, 2008, the Utility made an ISRS filing with the Commission designed to increase revenues by $1.9 million annually. After the Utility updated the filing, on February 4, 2009, the MoPSC approved an annual increase of $2.1 million that became effective February 6, 2009. On April 28, 2009, the Utility made an ISRS filing with the Commission designed to increase revenues by an additional $2.5 million annually. On July 15, 2009, the MoPSC approved the increase, which became effective July 16, 2009.

ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

The Company has evaluated or is in the process of evaluating the impact that recently issued accounting standards will have on the Company’s financial position or results of operations upon adoption. For disclosures related to the adoption of new accounting standards, see the New Accounting Standards section of Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

INFLATION

The accompanying consolidated financial statements reflect the historical costs of events and transactions, regardless of the purchasing power of the dollar at the time. Due to the capital-intensive nature of the business of Laclede Gas, the most significant impact of inflation is on the depreciation of utility plant. Rate regulation, to which Laclede Gas is subject, allows recovery through its rates of only the historical cost of utility plant as depreciation. While no plans exist to undertake replacements of plant in service other than normal replacements and those under existing replacement programs, Laclede Gas believes that any higher costs experienced upon replacement of existing facilities would be recovered through the normal regulatory process.

CREDIT RATINGS

Current credit ratings for Laclede Group and Laclede Gas issues are as follows:

The Company has investment grade ratings and believes that it will have adequate access to the financial markets to meet its capital requirements. These ratings remain subject to review and change by the rating agencies.

CASH FLOWS

The Company’s short-term borrowing requirements typically peak during colder months when Laclede Gas borrows money to cover the lag between when it purchases its natural gas and when its customers pay for that gas. Changes in the wholesale cost of natural gas (including cash payments for margin deposits associated with the Utility’s use of natural gas derivative instruments), variations in the timing of collections of gas cost under the Utility’s PGA Clause, and the utilization of storage gas inventories cause short-term cash requirements to vary during the year and from year to year, and can cause significant variations in the Utility’s cash provided by or used in operating activities.

Net cash provided by operating activities for fiscal year 2009 was $228.8 million. Net cash used in operating activities for fiscal year 2008 was $36.5 million. Net cash provided by operating activities was $81.3 million for fiscal year 2007. The improvement in cash flows provided by operating activities in fiscal year 2009 (over fiscal year 2008) was primarily attributable to reduced payments for natural gas storage inventories, other variations in the timing of the collection of gas costs under the PGA Clause, and reduced cash paid for income taxes. The reduction in cash flows from operating activities in fiscal year 2008 (over fiscal year 2007) was primarily attributable to increased payments for natural gas storage inventories, other variations in the timing of the collection of gas costs under the PGA Clause, and increased cash paid for income taxes, partially offset by higher operating income.

Net cash used in investing activities was $52.3 million for fiscal year 2009. Net cash provided by investing activities for fiscal year 2008 was $26.9 million. Net cash used in investing activities was $58.7 million for fiscal year 2007. Net cash provided by investing activities in fiscal year 2008 is primarily attributable to the proceeds from the sale of SM&P, partially offset by capital expenditures. Net cash used in investing activities in fiscal years 2009 and 2007 primarily reflected capital expenditures.

Net cash used in financing activities for fiscal years 2009, 2008, and 2007 was $116.8 million, $28.3 million and $20.6 million, respectively. The variation in net cash used in financing activities in fiscal year 2009 (over fiscal year 2008) primarily reflects an increase in the repayments of short-term debt this year, partially offset by the net effect of changes in long-term debt during fiscal year 2008. The variation in net cash used in financing activities in fiscal year 2008 (over fiscal year 2007) was primarily attributable to the redemption of the Company’s long-term debt to an unconsolidated affiliate trust and the maturity of long-term debt, partially offset by the issuance of additional long-term debt in fiscal year 2008. The Company used a portion of the proceeds from the aforementioned sale of SM&P to fund the redemption of the long-term debt to the unconsolidated affiliate trust.

Short-term Debt

As indicated above, the Company’s short-term borrowing requirements typically peak during the colder months. These short-term cash requirements can be met through the sale of commercial paper supported by lines of credit with banks or through direct use of the lines of credit. Laclede Gas has a syndicated line of credit in place of $320 million from 10 banks, with the largest portion provided by a single bank being 17.5%. This line expires in December 2011. In November 2008, the Utility established a seasonal line of credit of $75 million, which expired in March 2009. Including both lines of credit, the largest portion provided by a single bank was 26.8%. During fiscal year 2009, Laclede Gas utilized both its syndicated line of credit and commercial paper for short-term funding. Commercial paper outstanding at September 30, 2009 was $129.8 million, and there were no outstanding bank line advances. The weighted average interest rate on the short-term borrowings was 0.24% per annum at September 30, 2009. Based on total short-term borrowings at September 30, 2009, an increase in interest rate of 100 basis points would decrease pre-tax earnings and cash flows of Laclede Group by approximately $1.3 million on an annual basis. Portions of such increases or decreases may be offset through the application of PGA carrying costs. Although Laclede Gas borrowed funds from Laclede Group from time to time within fiscal year 2009, there were no such borrowings outstanding at September 30, 2009. The Utility had short-term borrowings (including borrowings from Laclede Group) aggregating to a maximum of $386.4 million at any one time during the fiscal year. Excluding borrowings from Laclede Group, the Utility’s maximum borrowings for the year were $309.9 million.

Laclede Gas’ lines of credit include covenants limiting total debt, including short-term debt, to no more than 70% of total capitalization and requiring earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) to be at least 2.25 times interest expense. On September 30, 2009, total debt was 56% of total capitalization.For the fiscal year ended September 30, 2009, EBITDA was 3.76 times interest expense.

Short-term cash requirements outside of Laclede Gas have generally been met with internally-generated funds. However, Laclede Group has $50 million in working capital lines of credit which expire in October 2010, to meet short-term liquidity needs of its subsidiaries. These lines of credit have covenants limiting the total debt of the consolidated Laclede Group to no more than 70% of the Company’s total capitalization. This ratio stood at 50% on September 30, 2009. These lines have been used to provide for seasonal funding needs of various subsidiaries from time to time. There were no borrowings under Laclede Group’s lines during the fiscal year.

Long-term Debt

At September 30, 2009, Laclede Gas had fixed-rate long-term debt totaling $390 million. While these long-term debt issues are fixed-rate, they are subject to changes in fair value as market interest rates change. However, increases or decreases in fair value would impact earnings and cash flows only if Laclede Gas were to reacquire any of these issues in the open market prior to maturity.

Equity and Shelf Registrations

Laclede Gas has on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) an effective shelf registration on Form S-3 for issuance of $350 million of First Mortgage Bonds, unsecured debt, and preferred stock, of which $270 million remains available to Laclede Gas at this time. The Utility has authority from the MoPSC until February 15, 2010 to issue up to $500 million in First Mortgage Bonds, unsecured debt, and equity securities, of which $370.4 million remains available under this authorization as of November 20, 2009. During fiscal year 2009, pursuant to this authority, the Utility sold 1,218 shares of its common stock to Laclede Group for $42.0 million. On June 30, 2009, the Utility filed an application with the MoPSC requesting authority to issue debt securities and preferred stock, including on a private placement basis, as well as to issue common stock, receive paid-in capital, and enter into capital lease agreements, all for a total of up to $600 million over the next three years. This application is under review by the Commission at this time. The amount, timing, and type of additional financing to be issued will depend on cash requirements and market conditions, as well as future MoPSC authorizations.

Laclede Group has on file an automatic shelf registration on Form S-3 with the SEC that allows for the issuance of equity securities and debt securities. No securities have been issued under this registration statement, which expires November 26, 2011. The amount, timing, and type of additional financing to be issued under this shelf registration will depend on cash requirements and market conditions. In addition, Laclede Group has a registration statement on file on Form S-3 for the issuance and sale of up to 400,000 shares of its common stock under its Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Program. There were 370,514 shares and 360,260 shares at September 30, 2009 and November 20, 2009, respectively, remaining available for issuance under this Form S-3.

On March 31, 2009, Laclede Gas redeemed all of its outstanding 5% Series B and 4.56% Series C preferred stock, totaling $0.6 million, at its par value of $25 per share in addition to the dividend paid on that same date.

Guarantees

Laclede Gas has several operating leases for the rental of vehicles that contain provisions requiring Laclede Gas to guarantee certain amounts related to the residual value of the leased property. These leases have various terms, the longest of which extends into 2014. At September 30, 2009, the maximum guarantees under these leases were $1.7 million. However, the Utility estimates that the residual value of the leased vehicles will be adequate to satisfy most of the guaranteed amounts. At September 30, 2009, the carrying value of the liability recognized for these guarantees was $0.4 million.

Laclede Group had guarantees totaling $86.8 million for performance and payment of certain wholesale gas supply purchases by LER, as of September 30, 2009. Since that date, total guarantees issued by Laclede Group on behalf of LER increased by $1.0 million bringing the total to $87.8 million in guarantees outstanding at November 20, 2009. No amounts have been recorded for these guarantees in the financial statements.

Other

Utility capital expenditures were $51.4 million in fiscal year 2009, compared with $55.3 million and $56.4 million for fiscal years 2008 and 2007, respectively. Utility capital expenditures are expected to be approximately $67 million in fiscal year 2010. The increase in capital expenditures expected for fiscal year 2010, compared with prior periods, is primarily attributable to anticipated additional purchases associated with software and technology enhancements, as well as other planned improvements to the Utility’s natural gas storage facilities. Non-utility capital expenditures for fiscal year 2009 were $1.0 million compared with $1.3 million in fiscal year 2008 and $2.5 million in fiscal year 2007, and are estimated to be approximately $0.3 million in fiscal year 2010.

Consolidated capitalization at September 30, 2009 consisted of 57.1% Laclede Group common stock equity and 42.9% Laclede Gas long-term debt.

Laclede Group’s ratio of earnings (from continuing operations) to fixed charges was 4.1 for fiscal year 2009, 3.7 for fiscal year 2008, and 2.9 for fiscal year 2007.

It is management’s view that the Company has adequate access to capital markets and will have sufficient capital resources, both internal and external, to meet its anticipated capital requirements, which primarily include capital expenditures, scheduled maturities of long-term debt, short-term seasonal needs, and dividends.

CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS

As of September 30, 2009, Laclede Group had contractual obligations with payments due as summarized

below (in millions):

Laclede Gas’ commodity price risk, which arises from market fluctuations in the price of natural gas, is primarily managed through the operation of its PGA Clause. The PGA Clause allows Laclede Gas to flow through to customers, subject to prudence review, the cost of purchased gas supplies. The Utility is allowed the flexibility to make up to three discretionary PGA changes during each year, in addition to its mandatory November PGA change, so long as such changes are separated by at least two months. The Utility is able to mitigate, to some extent, changes in commodity prices through the use of physical storage supplies and regional supply diversity. Laclede Gas also has a risk management policy that allows for the purchase of natural gas derivative instruments with the goal of managing its price risk associated with purchasing natural gas on behalf of its customers. This policy prohibits speculation. Costs and cost reductions, including carrying costs, associated with the Utility’s use of natural gas derivative instruments are allowed to be passed on to the Utility’s customers through the operation of its PGA Clause. Accordingly, Laclede Gas does not expect any adverse earnings impact as a result of the use of these derivative instruments. However, the timing of recovery for cash payments related to margin requirements may cause short-term cash requirements to vary. Nevertheless, carrying costs associated with such requirements, as well as other variations in the timing of collections of gas costs, are recovered through the PGA Clause. For more information about the Utility’s natural gas derivative instruments, seeNote 11, Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

In the course of its business, Laclede Group’s non-regulated gas marketing affiliate, LER, enters into fixed-price commitments associated with the purchase or sale of natural gas. As part of LER’s risk management policy, LER manages the price risk associated with these commitments by either closely matching the offsetting physical purchase or sale of natural gas at fixed-prices or through the use of exchange-traded/cleared futures contracts and swaps contracts to lock in margins. At September 30, 2009, LER’s unmatched positions were not material to Laclede Group’s financial position or results of operations. For details related to LER’s derivatives and hedging activities, see Note 11, Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

LER has concentrations of counterparty credit risk in that a significant portion of its transactions are with (or are associated with) energy producers, utility companies, and pipelines. These concentrations of counterparties have the potential to affect the Company’s overall exposure to credit risk, either positively or negatively, in that each of these three groups may be affected similarly by changes in economic, industry, or other conditions. LER closely monitors its credit exposure and, although uncollectible amounts have not been significant, increased counterparty defaults are possible and may result in financial losses and/or capital limitations. For more information on these concentrations of credit risk, including how LER manages these risks, see Note 12, Concentrations of Credit Risk, of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

The Company is also subject to interest rate risk associated with its long-term and short-term debt issuances. Refer to the Liquidity and Capital Resources section of this Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations for information about the effect of changes in interest rates.

ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS

Laclede Gas owns and operates natural gas distribution, transmission, and storage facilities, the operations of which are subject to various environmental laws, regulations, and interpretations. While environmental issues resulting from such operations arise in the ordinary course of business, such issues have not materially affected the Company’s or Laclede Gas’ financial position and results of operations. As environmental laws, regulations, and their interpretations change, however, Laclede Gas may be required to incur additional costs. For a description of environmental matters, see Note 17, Commitments and Contingencies, of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS

Laclede Group has no off-balance sheet arrangements.

Laclede Gas Company’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations is included in Exhibit 99.1 of this report.

Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

For this discussion, see Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Market Risk, on page 36 of this report.

Management Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal controls over financial reporting. The Company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements and can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risks that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

The Company’s management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, conducted an assessment of the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2009. In making this assessment, management used the criteria in Internal Control – Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on that assessment, management concluded that the Company’s internal control over financial reporting was effective as of September 30, 2009. Deloitte & Touche LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, has issued an attestation report on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting, which is included herein.

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of

The Laclede Group, Inc.

St. Louis, Missouri

We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of The Laclede Group, Inc. and its subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of September 30, 2009, based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or under the supervision of, the company’s principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, and effected by the company’s board of directors, management, and other personnel to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of the inherent limitations of internal control over financial reporting, including the possibility of collusion or improper management override of controls, material misstatements due to error or fraud may not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. Also, projections of any evaluation of the effectiveness of the internal control over financial reporting to future periods are subject to the risk that the controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2009, based on the criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedule as of and for the year ended September 30, 2009 of the Company and our report dated November 20, 2009 expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements and financial statement schedule and included an explanatory paragraph regarding the Company’s adoption of Financial Accounting Standards Board Interpretation No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes—an Interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109 (ASC 740, Income Taxes), effective October 1, 2007.

/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP

St. Louis, Missouri

November 20, 2009

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of

The Laclede Group, Inc.

St. Louis, Missouri

 

 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and statements of consolidated capitalization of The Laclede Group, Inc. and its subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of September 30, 2009 and 2008, and the related consolidated statements of income, common shareholders’ equity, comprehensive income, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended September 30, 2009. Our audits also included the financial statement schedule listed in the Index at Part IV, Item 15(a) 2. These consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedule are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedule based on our audits.

 

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of The Laclede Group, Inc. and its subsidiaries as of September 30, 2009 and 2008, and the results of their operations and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended September 30, 2009, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also, in our opinion, such financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein.

 

As discussed in Note 14 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company adopted the provisions of Financial Accounting Standards Board Interpretation No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes—an Interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109(ASC 740, Income Taxes), effective October 1, 2007.

 

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2009, based on the criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated November 20, 2009 expressed an unqualified opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

St. Louis, Missouri

November 20, 2009