NiSource Inc. is an energy holding company under the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 2005 whose primary subsidiaries are fully regulated natural gas and electric utility companies, serving approximately 4.03.7 million customers in sevensix states. NiSource is the successor to an Indiana corporation organized in 1987 under the name of NIPSCO Industries, Inc., which changed its name to NiSource Inc. on April 14, 1999.
customer preference for natural gas. Competition with providers of electricity has traditionally been the strongest in the residential and commercial markets of Kentucky, southern Ohio, central Pennsylvania and western Virginia due to comparatively low electric rates. Natural
Our customer base is broadly diversified, with no single customer accounting for a significant portion of revenues.
INFORMATION ABOUT OUR EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
NISOURCE INC.
The following is a list of our Executive Officers, including their names, ages, offices held and other recent business experience.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Name | | Age | | Office(s) Held in Past 5 Years |
Lloyd M. Yates | | 62 | | | President and Chief Executive Officer |
| | | | Executive Vice President, Customer and Delivery Operations, and President, Carolinas Region, of Duke Energy Corporation from 2014 to 2019. |
Donald E. Brown | | 51 | | | Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer |
| | | | Executive Vice President of NiSource since May 2015. |
| | | | Chief Financial Officer of NiSource since July 2015. |
| | | | President, NiSource Corporate Services since June 2020. |
Melody Birmingham | | 51 | | | Executive Vice President, Chief Innovation Officer |
| | | | Senior Vice President and Chief Administrator Officer of Duke Energy Corporation from May 2021 to June 2022. |
| | | | Senior Vice President, Supply Chain and Chief Procurement Officer of Duke Energy Corporation from November 2018 to April 2021. |
| | | | President of Duke Energy Corporation from June 2015 to November 2018 |
William Jefferson, Jr | | 61 | | | Executive Vice President, Operations and Chief Safety Officer |
| | | | Station Director and Vice President at STPNOC, Wadsworth, Texas, from 2016 to May 2022. |
Shawn Anderson | | 41 | | | Senior Vice President,Strategy and Chief Risk Officer |
| | | | Vice President, Strategy of NiSource from January 2019 to May 2020. |
| | | | Vice President of NiSource from May 2018 to December 2018. |
| | | | Treasurer and Chief Risk Officer of NiSource from June 2016 to December 2018. |
Kimberly S. Cuccia | | 39 | | | Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary |
| | | | Vice President General Counsel, Interim Corporate Secretary of NiSource from January 2022 to March 2022. |
| | | | Vice President and Deputy General Counsel, Regulatory, of NiSource Corporate Services Company, from January 2021 to December 2021. |
| | | | Vice President and General Counsel, Columbia Gas of Massachusetts, NiSource Corporate Services Company, from October 2019 to December 2020. |
| | | | Vice President and General Counsel, Massachusetts Restoration, NiSource Corporate Services Company, from October 2018 to October 2019. |
| | | | Chief Counsel, Columbia Gas Companies from June 2015 to September 2018. |
Melanie B. Berman | | 52 | | | Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer |
| | | | Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer of The Michaels Companies, Inc. from 2020 to 2021. |
| | | | Vice President, Human Resources of Anthem, Inc. from January 2018 to 2019. |
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
NISOURCE INC.
Our operations and financial results are subject to various risks and uncertainties, including those described below, that could adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows, and the tradingmarket price of our common stock.
OPERATIONAL RISKS
We may not be able to complete the sale of a minority interest in NIPSCO on the expected timeline or at all.
On November 7, 2022, we announced our intention to sell a minority interest in NIPSCO (the “NIPSCO Minority Interest Sale”). We intend to evaluate various alternatives to determine the optimal transaction structure to maximize stakeholder value as a result of the NIPSCO Minority Interest Sale. A successful sale will be dependent on factors such as regulatory approval(s) and negotiations with one or more counterparties. There can be no assurances that we will be able to successfully complete the NIPSCO Minority Interest Sale on the anticipated timeline or at all. Furthermore, there can be no assurances that the NIPSCO Minority Interest Sale will lead to the anticipated benefits to stockholders.
We may not be able to execute our business plan or growth strategy, including the NIPSCO Minority Interest Sale and utility infrastructure investments.
Business or regulatory conditions may result in our inability to execute our business plan or growth strategy, including the NIPSCO Minority Interest Sale and identified, planned and other utility infrastructure investments, which includes investments related to natural gas pipeline modernization and our renewable energy projects, and the build-transfer execution goals within our business plan.
Our Enterprise Transformation Roadmap initiatives are designed to identify long-term sustainable capability enhancements, cost optimization improvements, technology investments and work process optimization, has increased the volume and pace of change and may not be effective as it continues. Our customer and regulatory initiatives may not achieve planned results. Utility infrastructure investments may not materialize, may cease to be achievable or economically viable and may not be successfully completed. Natural gas may cease to be viewed as an economically and environmentally attractive fuel. Certain environmental activist groups, investors and governmental entities continue to oppose natural gas delivery and infrastructure investments because of perceived environmental impacts associated with the natural gas supply chain and end use. Energy conservation, energy efficiency, distributed generation, energy storage, policies favoring electric heat over gas heat and other factors may reduce demand for natural gas and electricity. In addition, we consider acquisitions or dispositions of assets or businesses, JVs, including in connection with the NIPSCO Minority Interest Sale, and mergers from time to time as we execute on our business plan and growth strategy. Any of these circumstances could adversely affect our results of operations and growth prospects. Even if our business plan and growth strategy are executed, there is still risk of, among other things, human error in maintenance, installation or operations, shortages or delays in obtaining equipment, including as a result of transportation delays and availability, labor availability and performance below expected levels (in addition to the other risks discussed in this section). We are currently experiencing, and expect to continue to experience, supply chain challenges, including labor availability issues, impacting our ability to obtain materials for our gas and electric projects. Risks to our capital projects, including risks related to supply chain challenges and labor availability, are described in a separate risk factor below.
Our gas distribution and transmission activities, as well as generation, transmission and distribution of electricity, involve a variety of inherent hazards and operating risks, including potential public safety risks.
Our gas distribution and transmission activities, as well as generation, transmission and distribution of electricity, involve a variety of inherent hazards and operating risks, including, but not limited to, gas leaks and over-pressurization, downed power lines, stray electrical voltage, excavation or vehicular damage to our infrastructure, outages, environmental spills, mechanical problems and other incidents, which could cause substantial financial losses, as demonstrated in part by the Greater Lawrence Incident. We also have distribution propane assets that involve similar risks. In addition, these hazards and risks have resulted and may result in the future in serious injury or loss of life to employees and/or the general public, significant damage to property, environmental pollution, impairment of our operations, adverse regulatory rulings and reputational harm, which in turn could lead to substantial losses for NiSource and its stockholders. The location of pipeline facilities, including regulator stations, liquefied natural gas and underground storage, or generation, transmission, substation and distribution facilities near populated areas, including residential areas, commercial business centers and industrial sites, could increase the level of damages resulting from such incidents. As with the Greater Lawrence Incident, certain incidents have subjected and may in the future subject us to both civil and criminal litigation or administrative or other legal proceedings from time to time, which could result in substantial monetary judgments, fines, or penalties against us, be resolved on unfavorable terms, and require us to incur significant operational expenses. The occurrence of incidents has in certain instances adversely affected and could in the
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
NISOURCE INC.
future adversely affect our reputation, cash flows, financial position and/or results of operations. We maintain insurance against some, but not all, of these risks and losses.
We may conduct certain operations, including in connection with the NIPSCO Minority Interest Sale, through a JV arrangement involving third-party investors that may result in delays, litigation or operational impasses.
We may enter into JV arrangements involving third-party investors, including in connection with the NIPSCO Minority Interest Sale. As part of a JV arrangement, third-party investors may hold certain protective rights that may impact our ability to make certain decisions. Any such third-party investors may have interests and objectives which may differ from ours and, accordingly, disputes may arise that may result in delays, litigation or operational impasses.
Failure to adapt to advances in technology and manage the related costs could make us less competitive and negatively impact our results of operations and financial condition.
A key element of our electric business model includes generating power at central station power plants to achieve economies of scale and produce power at a competitive cost. We continue to transition our generation portfolio in order to implement new and diverse technologies including renewable energy, distributed generation, energy storage, and energy efficiency designed to reduce regulated emissions. Advances in technology and potential competition supported by changes in laws or regulations could reduce the cost of electric generation and provide retail alternatives causing power sales to decline and the value of our generating facilities to decline.
Our natural gas business model depends on widespread utilization of natural gas for space heating as a core driver of revenues. Alternative energy sources, new technologies or alternatives to natural gas space heating, including cold climate heat pumps and/or efficiency of other products, could reduce demand and increase customer attrition, which could impact our ability to recover on our investments in our gas distribution assets.
Our future success will depend, in part, on our ability to anticipate and successfully adapt to technological changes, to offer services that meet customer demands and evolving industry standards, including environmental impacts associated with our products and services, and to recover all, or a significant portion of, remaining investments in retired assets. A failure by us to effectively adapt to changes in technology and manage the related costs could harm the ability of our products and services to remain competitive in the marketplace and could have a material adverse impact on our results of operations and financial condition.
Aging infrastructure may lead to disruptions in operations and increased capital expenditures and maintenance costs, all of which could negatively impact our financial results.
We have risks associated with aging electric and gas infrastructure. These risks can be driven by threats such as, but not limited to, electrical faults, mechanical failure, internal corrosion, external corrosion, ground movement and stress corrosion and/or cracking. The age of these assets may result in a need for replacement, a higher level of maintenance costs or unscheduled outages, despite efforts by us to properly maintain or upgrade these assets through inspection, scheduled maintenance and capital investment. In addition, the nature of the information available on aging infrastructure assets, which in some cases is incomplete, may make the operation of the infrastructure, inspections, maintenance, upgrading and replacement of the assets particularly challenging. Missing or incorrect infrastructure data may lead to (1) difficulty properly locating facilities, which can result in excavator damage and operational or emergency response issues, and (2) configuration and control risks associated with the modification of system operating pressures in connection with turning off or turning on service to customers, which can result in unintended outages or operating pressures. Also, additional maintenance and inspections are required in some instances to improve infrastructure information and records and address emerging regulatory or risk management requirements, resulting in increased costs.
Supply chain issues related to shortages of materials and transportation logistics may lead to delays in the maintenance and replacement of aging infrastructure, which could increase the probability and/or impact of a public safety incident. We lack diversity in suppliers of some gas materials. While we have implemented contractual protections with suppliers and stockpile some materials in inventory for such supply risks, we may not be effective in ensuring that we can obtain adequate emergency supply on a timely basis in each state, that no compromises are being made on quality and that we have alternate suppliers available. The failure to operate our assets as desired could result in interruption of electric service, major component failure at generating facilities and electric substations, gas leaks and other incidents, and an inability to meet firm service and compliance
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
NISOURCE INC.
obligations, which could adversely impact revenues, and could also result in increased capital expenditures and maintenance costs, which, if not fully recovered from customers, could negatively impact our financial results.
We may be unable to obtain insurance on acceptable terms or at all, and the insurance coverage we do obtain may not provide protection against all significant losses.
Our ability to obtain insurance, as well as the cost and coverage of such insurance, are affected by developments affecting our business; international, national, state, or local events; and the financial condition and underwriting considerations of insurers. For example, some insurers are moving away from underwriting certain carbon-intensive energy-related businesses such as those in the coal industry or those exposed to specific perils such as wildfires as well as gas explosion events or other infrastructure-related or natural catastrophe risks. The utility insurance market continues to be impacted by a prevalence of severe losses, and despite significant annual increases in rates over the past few years, markets are experiencing unacceptable loss ratios. Certain perils, such as cyber, are now being excluded from some master policies for property and casualty insurance, requiring procurement of additional policies to be obtained to maintain consistent coverage at an additional cost. Capacity limits insurers are willing to issue have decreased, requiring participation from more insurers to provide adequate coverage. Insurance coverage may not continue to be available at limits, rates or terms acceptable to us. In addition, our insurance is not sufficient or effective under all circumstances and against all hazards or liabilities to which we are subject. Certain types of damages, expenses or claimed costs, such as fines and penalties, have been and in the future may be excluded under the policies. In addition, insurers providing insurance to us may raise defenses to coverage under the terms and conditions of the respective insurance policies that could result in a denial of coverage or limit the amount of insurance proceeds available to us. Any losses for which we are not fully insured or that are not covered by insurance at all could materially adversely affect our results of operations, cash flows and financial position.
Aspects of the implementation of our electric generation strategy, including the retirement of our coal generation units, may be delayed and may not achieve intended results.
As discussed in “Results and Discussion of Segment Operations - Electric Operations,” in Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, our 2018 Integrated Resource Plan (“2018 Plan”) outlines the path to retire the remaining two coal units at R.M. Schahfer by the end of 2025 and the remaining coal-fired generation by the end of 2028, to be replaced by lower-cost, reliable and cleaner options. Our 2021 Integrated Resource Plan (“2021 Plan”) validated the activities underway pursuant to our 2018 Plan and calls for the retirement of the Michigan City Generating Station, replacement of existing vintage gas peaking units at the R.M. Schahfer Generating Station and upgrades to the transmission system to enhance our electric generation transition. Recent developments, including macro supply chain issues and U.S. federal policy actions, have created significant uncertainty around the availability of key input material necessary to develop and place our renewable energy projects in service. In the U.S., solar industry supply chain issues include the pending U.S. Department of Commerce investigation on Antidumping and Countervailing Duties Anti Circumvention Petition filed by a domestic solar manufacturer (the “DOC Investigation”), the Uyghur Forced Labor Protection Act, Section 201 Tariffs and persistent general global supply chain and labor availability issues. The most prominent effect of these issues is the significant curtailment of imported solar panels and other key components required to complete utility scale solar projects in the U.S. Any available solar panels may not meet the cost and efficiency standards of our currently approved projects and the incremental cost may not be recoverable through customer rates. As a result of the challenges in obtaining solar panels, many solar projects in the U.S. have been delayed or canceled. As we are in the midst of a transition to an electric generation portfolio with more renewable resources, including solar, our projects are subject to the effects of these issues.
Our expectation has been that solar energy sources would be one of the primary ways in which we will meet our electric generation capacity and reliability obligations to the MISO market and reliably serve our customers when we retire our coal generation capacity. The high level of uncertainty surrounding the completion of our solar renewable energy projects creates significant risks for us to reliably meet our capacity and energy obligations to MISO and to provide reliable and affordable energy to our customers. Any additional delays to the completion dates of our ten planned and approved solar projects are expected to impact our capacity position and our ability to meet our resource adequacy obligations to MISO. Delays to the completion dates of our projects could also include delays in the financial return of certain investments and impact the overall timing of our electric generation transition.
As noted above, we expect our electric generation strategy to require additional investment to meet our MISO obligations and may require significant future capital expenditures, operating costs and charges to earnings that may negatively impact our financial position, financial results and cash flows. An inability to secure and deliver on renewable projects is negatively
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
NISOURCE INC.
impacting our generation transition timeline and may negatively impact our achievement of decarbonization goals and reputation.
Our capital projects and programs subject us to construction risks and natural gas costs and supply risks, and are subject to regulatory oversight, including requirements for permits, approvals and certificates from various governmental agencies.
Our business requires substantial capital expenditures for investments in, among other things, capital improvements to our electric generating facilities, electric and natural gas distribution infrastructure, natural gas storage and other projects, including projects for environmental compliance. As we undertake these projects and programs, we may be unable to complete them on schedule or at the anticipated costs due in part to shortages in materials as described more fully below. Additionally, we may construct or purchase some of these projects and programs to capture anticipated future growth, which may not materialize, and may cause the construction to occur over an extended period of time.
Our existing and planned capital projects require numerous permits, approvals and certificates from federal, state, and local governmental agencies. If there is a delay in obtaining any required regulatory approvals or if we fail to obtain or maintain any required approvals or to comply with any applicable laws or regulations, we may not be able to construct or operate our facilities, we may be forced to incur additional costs or we may be unable to recover any or all amounts invested in a project. We also may not receive the anticipated increases in revenue and cash flows resulting from such projects and programs until after their completion. Other construction risks include changes in the availability and costs of materials, equipment, commodities or labor (including changes to tariffs on materials), delays caused by construction incidents or injuries, work stoppages, shortages in qualified labor, poor initial cost estimates, unforeseen engineering issues, the ability to obtain necessary rights-of-way, easements and transmissions connections and general contractors and subcontractors not performing as required under their contracts.
We are monitoring risks related to increasing order and delivery lead times for construction and other materials, increasing risk associated with the unavailability of materials due to global shortages in raw materials and issues with transportation logistics, and risk of decreased construction labor productivity in the event of disruptions in the availability of materials critical to our gas and electric operations. Our efforts to enhance our resiliency to supply chain shortages may not be effective. We are also seeing increasing prices associated with certain materials, equipment and products, which impacts our ability to complete major capital projects at the cost that was planned and approved. To the extent that delays occur or costs increase, customer affordability as well as our business operations, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition could be materially adversely affected. In addition, to the extent that delays occur on projects that target system integrity, the risk of an operational incident could increase. For more information on global availability of materials for our renewable projects, see “ - Results and Discussion of Segment Operations - Electric Operations - Electric Supply and Generation Transition.” To the extent that delays occur, costs become unrecoverable or recovery is delayed, or we otherwise become unable to effectively manage and complete our capital projects, our results of operations, cash flows, and financial condition may be adversely affected.
A significant portion of the gas and electricity we sell is used by residential and commercial customers for heating and air conditioning. Accordingly, fluctuations in weather, gas and electricity commodity costs, inflation and economic conditions impact demand of our customers and our operating results.
Energy sales are sensitive to variations in weather. Forecasts of energy sales are based on “normal” weather, which represents a long-term historical average. Significant variations from normal weather resulting from climate change or other factors could have, and have had, a material impact on energy sales. Additionally, residential usage, and to some degree commercial usage, is sensitive to fluctuations in commodity costs for gas and electricity, whereby usage declines with increased costs, thus affecting our financial results. Commodity prices have been and may continue to be volatile. Rising gas costs could heighten regulator and stakeholder sensitivity relative to the impact of base rate increases on customer affordability. Lastly, residential and commercial customers’ usage is sensitive to economic conditions and factors such as recession, inflation, unemployment, consumption and consumer confidence. Therefore, prevailing economic conditions affecting the demand of our customers may in turn affect our financial results.
Fluctuations in the price of energy commodities or their related transportation costs or an inability to obtain an adequate, reliable and cost-effective fuel supply to meet customer demands may have a negative impact on our financial results.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
NISOURCE INC.
Our current electric generating fleet is dependent on coal and natural gas for fuel, and our gas distribution operations purchase and resell a portion of the natural gas we deliver to our customers. These energy commodities are subject to price fluctuations and fluctuations in associated transportation costs. We use physical hedging through the use of storage assets and use financial products in certain jurisdictions in order to offset fluctuations in commodity supply prices. We rely on regulatory recovery mechanisms in the various jurisdictions in order to fully recover the commodity costs incurred in selling energy to our customers. However, while we have historically been successful in the recovery of costs related to such commodity prices, there can be no assurance that such costs will be fully recovered through rates in a timely manner.
In addition, we depend on electric transmission lines, natural gas pipelines, and other transportation facilities owned and operated by third parties to deliver the electricity and natural gas we sell to wholesale markets, supply natural gas to our gas storage and electric generation facilities, and provide retail energy services to our customers. If transportation is disrupted, if capacity is inadequate or if supply is interrupted due to issues at the wellhead, we may be unable to sell and deliver our gas and electric services to some or all of our customers. As a result, we may be required to procure additional or alternative electricity and/or natural gas supplies at then-current market rates, which, if recovery of related costs is disallowed, could have a material adverse effect on our businesses, financial condition, cash flows, results of operations and/or prospects.
Failure to attract and retain an appropriately qualified workforce, and maintain good labor relations, could harm our results of operations.
We operate in an industry that requires many of our employees and contractors to possess unique technical skill sets. An aging workforce without appropriate replacements, the mismatch of skill sets to future needs, the unavailability of talent for internal positions and the unavailability of contract resources may lead to operating challenges or increased costs. These operating challenges include lack of resources, loss of knowledge and a lengthy time period associated with skill development. For example, certain skills, such as those related to construction, maintenance and repair of transmission and distribution systems, are in high demand and have a limited supply. Current and prospective employees may determine that they do not wish to work for us due to market, economic, employment and other conditions, including those related to organizational changes as described in the risk factor below.
We face increased competition for talent in the current environment of sustained labor shortage and increased turnover rates. Incidents of any pandemic in our workforce could increase the risk of worker illness and availability. These or other employee workforce factors could negatively impact our business, financial condition or results of operations.
A significant portion of our workforce is subject to collective bargaining agreements. Our collective bargaining agreements are generally negotiated on an operating company basis with some companies having multiple bargaining agreements, which may span different geographies. Any failure to reach an agreement on new labor contracts or to renegotiate these labor contracts might result in strikes, boycotts or other labor disruptions. Our workforce continuity plans may not be effective in avoiding work stoppages that may result from labor negotiations or mass resignations. Labor disruptions, strikes or significant negotiated wage and benefit increases, whether due to union activities, employee turnover or otherwise, could have a material adverse effect on our businesses, results of operations and/or cash flows.
Our strategic plan includes enhanced technology and transmission and distribution investments and a reduction in reliance on coal-fired generation. As part of our strategic plan, we will need to attract and retain personnel that are qualified to implement our strategy and may need to retrain or re-skill certain employees to support our long-term objectives.
Failure to hire and retain qualified employees, including the ability to transfer significant internal historical knowledge and expertise to the new employees, may adversely affect our ability to manage and operate our business. If we are unable to successfully attract and retain an appropriately qualified workforce and maintain satisfactory collective bargaining agreements, safety, service reliability, customer satisfaction and our results of operations could be adversely affected.
If we cannot effectively manage new initiatives and organizational changes, we will be unable to address the opportunities and challenges presented by our strategy and the business and regulatory environment.
In order to execute on our sustainable growth strategy and enhance our culture of ongoing continuous improvement, we must effectively manage the complexity and frequency of new initiatives and organizational changes. The organizational changes from our transformation initiatives have put short-term pressure on employees due to the volume and pace of change and, in some cases, loss of personnel. Front-line workers are being impacted by the variety of process and technology changes that are currently in progress.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
NISOURCE INC.
If we are unable to make decisions quickly, assess our opportunities and risks, and successfully implement new governance, managerial and organizational processes as needed to execute our strategy in this increasingly dynamic and competitive business and regulatory environment, our financial condition, results of operations and relationships with our business partners, regulators, customers, employees and stockholders may be negatively impacted.
Actions of activist stockholders could negatively affect our business and stock price and cause us to incur significant expenses.
We may be subject to actions or proposals from activist stockholders or others that may not be aligned with our long-term strategy or the interests of our other stockholders. We have had communications with an activist stockholder. Our response to suggested actions, proposals, director nominations and contests for the election of directors by activist stockholders could disrupt our business and operations, divert the attention of our board of directors, management and employees and be costly and time‐consuming. Potential actions by activist stockholders or others may interfere with our ability to execute our strategic plans; create perceived uncertainties as to the future direction of our business or strategy; cause uncertainty with our regulators; make it more difficult to attract and retain qualified personnel; and adversely affect our relationships with our existing and potential business partners. Any of the foregoing could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. Also, we may be required to incur significant fees and other expenses related to responding to stockholder activism, including for third-party advisors. Moreover, our stock price could be subject to significant fluctuation or otherwise be adversely affected by the events, risks and uncertainties of any stockholder activism.
We outsource certain business functions to third-party suppliers and service providers, and substandard performance by those third parties could harm our business, reputation and results of operations.
Utilities rely on extensive networks of business partners and suppliers to support critical enterprise capabilities across their organizations. Like other companies in the utilities industry, we are seeing slowing deliveries from suppliers and in some cases materials and labor shortages for capital projects. We outsource certain services to third parties in areas including construction services, information technology, materials, fleet, environmental, operational services, corporate and other areas. In addition to delays and unavailability at times, outsourcing of services to third parties could expose us to inferior service quality or substandard deliverables, which may result in non-compliance (including with applicable legal requirements and industry standards), interruption of service or accidents or reputational harm, which could negatively impact our results of operations. We do not have full visibility into our supply chain, which may impact our ability to serve customers in a safe, reliable and cost-effective manner. These risks include the risk of operational failure, reputation damage, disruption due to new supply chain disruptions, exposure to significant commercial losses and fines and poorly positioned and distressed suppliers. If we continue to see delayed deliveries and shortages or if any other difficulties in the operations of these third-party suppliers and service providers, including their systems, were to occur, they could adversely affect our results of operations, or adversely affect our ability to work with regulators, unions, customers or employees.
A cyber-attack on any of our or certain third-party technology systems upon which we rely may adversely affect our ability to operate and could lead to a loss or misuse of confidential and proprietary information or potential liability.
We are reliant on technology to run our business, which is dependent upon financial and operational technology systems to process critical information necessary to conduct various elements of our business, including the generation, transmission and distribution of electricity; operation of our gas pipeline facilities; and the recording and reporting of commercial and financial transactions to regulators, investors and other stakeholders. In addition to general information and cyber risks that all large corporations face (e.g., ransomware, malware, unauthorized access attempts, phishing attacks, malicious intent by insiders, third-party software vulnerabilities and inadvertent disclosure of sensitive information), the utility industry faces evolving and increasingly complex cybersecurity risks associated with protecting sensitive and confidential customer and employee information, electric grid infrastructure, and natural gas infrastructure. Deployment of new business technologies, along with maintaining legacy technology, represents a large-scale opportunity for attacks on our information systems and confidential customer and employee information, as well as on the integrity of the energy grid and the natural gas infrastructure. Additionally, the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, as well as increased surveillance activity from China, has increased the likelihood of a cyber-attack on critical infrastructure systems.
Increasing large-scale corporate attacks in conjunction with more sophisticated threats continue to challenge power and utility companies. Any failure of our technology systems, or those of our customers, suppliers or others with whom we do business,
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
NISOURCE INC.
could materially disrupt our ability to operate our business and could result in a financial loss and possibly do harm to our reputation.
Additionally, our information systems experience ongoing, often sophisticated, cyber-attacks by a variety of sources, including foreign sources, with the apparent aim to breach our cyber-defenses. While we have implemented and maintain a cybersecurity program designed to protect our information technology, operational technology, and data systems from such attacks, our cybersecurity program does not prevent all breaches or cyberattack incidents. We have experienced an increase in the number of attempts by external parties to access our networks or our company data without authorization. We have experienced, and expect to continue to experience, cyber intrusions and attacks to our information systems and our operational technology. To our knowledge, none of these intrusions or attacks have resulted in a material cybersecurity intrusion or data breach. The risk of a disruption or breach of our operational technology, or the compromise of the data processed in connection with our operations, through cybersecurity breach or ransomware attack has increased as attempted attacks have advanced in sophistication and number around the world. Technological complexities combined with advanced cyber-attack techniques, lack of cyber hygiene and human error can result in a cybersecurity incident, such as a ransomware attack. Supplier non-compliance with cyber controls can also result in a cybersecurity incident. Attacks can occur at any point in the supply chain or with any suppliers. In addition, unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) or drones are used for various commercial and recreational purposes across the country. The Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) released alerts pertaining to UASs being used for malicious activities and the cybersecurity risk is continuing to increase.
In addition, we collect and retain personally identifiable information of our customers, stockholders and employees. Customers, stockholders and employees expect that we will adequately protect their personal information. The regulatory environment surrounding information security and privacy is increasingly demanding.
Although we attempt to maintain adequate defenses to these attacks and work through industry groups and trade associations to identify common threats and assess our countermeasures, a security breach of our information systems and/or operational technology, or a security breach of the information systems of our customers, suppliers or others with whom we do business, could (i) adversely impact our ability to safely and reliably deliver electricity and natural gas to our customers through our generation, transmission and distribution systems and potentially negatively impact our compliance with certain mandatory reliability and gas flow standards, (ii) subject us to reputational and other harm or liabilities associated with theft or inappropriate release of certain types of information such as system operating information or information, personal or otherwise, relating to our customers or employees, (iii) impact our ability to manage our businesses, and/or (iv) subject us to legal and regulatory proceedings and claims from third parties, in addition to remediation costs, any of which, in turn, could have a material adverse effect on our businesses, cash flows, financial condition, results of operations and/or prospects. Although we do maintain cyber insurance, it is possible that such insurance will not adequately cover any losses or liabilities we may incur as a result of a cybersecurity incident.
Compliance with and changes in cybersecurity requirements have a cost and operational impact on our business, and failure to comply with such laws and regulations could adversely impact our reputation, results of operations, financial condition and/or cash flows.
As cyber-attacks are becoming more sophisticated, U.S. government warnings have indicated that critical infrastructure assets, including pipelines and electric infrastructure, may be specifically targeted by certain groups. In 2021, the Transportation Security Administration (“TSA”) announced two new security directives in response to a ransomware attack on the Colonial Pipeline that occurred earlier in the year. These directives require critical pipeline owners to comply with mandatory reporting measures, designate a cybersecurity coordinator, provide vulnerability assessments, and ensure compliance with certain cybersecurity requirements. Such directives or other requirements may require expenditure of significant additional resources to respond to cyberattacks, to continue to modify or enhance protective measures, or to assess, investigate and remediate any critical infrastructure security vulnerabilities. Additionally, on November 30, 2022, the TSA issued an advance notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPRM) seeking public comment on more comprehensive, formal cybersecurity regulations for the pipeline industry. Any failure to comply with such government regulations or failure in our cybersecurity protective measures may result in enforcement actions that may have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition. In addition, there is no certainty that costs incurred related to securing against threats will be recovered through rates.
The impacts of natural disasters, acts of terrorism, acts of war, civil unrest, cyber-attacks, accidents, public health emergencies or other catastrophic events may disrupt operations and reduce the ability to service customers.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
NISOURCE INC.
A disruption or failure of natural gas distribution systems, or within electric generation, transmission or distribution systems, in the event of a major hurricane, tornado, or other major weather event, or terrorist attack, acts of war, including the political and economic disruption and uncertainty related to Russia’s military invasion of Ukraine, civil unrest, cyber-attack (as further detailed above), accident, public health emergency, pandemic, or other catastrophic event could cause delays in completing sales, providing services, or performing other critical functions. We have experienced disruptions in the past from hurricanes and tornadoes and other events of this nature. Also, companies in our industry face a heightened risk of exposure to and have experienced acts of terrorism and vandalism. Our electric and gas physical infrastructure may be targets of physical security threats or terrorist activities that could disrupt our operations. We have increased security given the current environment and may be required by regulators or by the future threat environment to make investments in security that we cannot currently predict. In addition, the supply chain constraints that we are experiencing could impact timely restoration of services. The occurrence of such events could adversely affect our financial position and results of operations. In accordance with customary industry practice, we maintain insurance against some, but not all, of these risks and losses.
We are exposed to significant reputational risks, which make us vulnerable to a loss of cost recovery, increased litigation and negative public perception.
As a utility company, we are subject to adverse publicity focused on the reliability of our services, the speed with which we are able to respond effectively to electric outages, natural gas leaks or events and related accidents and similar interruptions caused by storm damage, physical or cyber security incidents, or other unanticipated events, as well as our own or third parties’ actions or failure to act. We are subject to prevailing labor markets and potential high attrition, which may impact the speed of our customer service response. We are also facing supply chain challenges, the impacts of which may adversely impact our reputation in several areas as described elsewhere in these risk factors. We are also subject to adverse publicity related to actual or perceived environmental impacts. If customers, legislators or regulators have or develop a negative opinion of us, this could result in less favorable legislative and regulatory outcomes or increased regulatory oversight, increased litigation and negative public perception. The adverse publicity and investigations we experienced as a result of the Greater Lawrence Incident may have an ongoing negative impact on the public’s perception of us. It is difficult to predict the ultimate impact of this adverse publicity. The foregoing may have continuing adverse effects on our business, results of operations, cash flow and financial condition.
The physical impacts of climate change and the transition to a lower carbon future are impacting our business and could materially adversely affect our results of operations.
Climate change is exacerbating risks to our physical infrastructure by increasing the frequency of extreme weather, including heat stresses to power lines, cold temperature stress to our electric and gas systems, and storms and floods that damage infrastructure. In addition, climate change is likely to cause lake and river level changes that affect the manner in which services are currently provided and droughts or other limits on water used to supply services, and other extreme weather conditions. We have adapted and will continue to evolve our infrastructure and operations to meet current and future needs of our stakeholders. With higher frequency of these and other possible extreme weather events it may become more costly for us to safely and reliably deliver certain products and services to our customers. Some of these costs may not be recovered. To the extent that we are unable to recover those costs, or if higher rates arising from recovery of such costs result in reduced demand for services, our future financial results may be adversely impacted. Further, as the intensity and frequency of significant weather events increases, insurers may reprice or remove themselves from insuring risks for which the company has historically maintained insurance, resulting in increased cost or risk to us.
Our strategy may be impacted by policy and legal, technology, market and reputational risks and opportunities that are associated with the transition to a lower-carbon economy, as disclosed in other risk factors in this section. As a result of increased awareness regarding climate change, coupled with adverse economic conditions, availability of alternative energy sources, including private solar, microturbines, fuel cells, energy-efficient buildings and energy storage devices, and new regulations restricting emissions, including potential regulations of methane emissions, some consumers and companies may use less energy, meet their own energy needs through alternative energy sources or avoid expansions of their facilities, including natural gas facilities, which may result in less demand for our services. As these technologies become a more cost-competitive option over time, whether through cost effectiveness or government incentives and subsidies, certain customers may choose to meet their own energy needs and subsequently decrease usage of our systems and services, which may result in, among other things, our generating facilities becoming less competitive and economical. Further, evolving investor sentiment related to the use of fossil fuels and initiatives to restrict continued production of fossil fuels could result in a significant impact on our electric generation and natural gas businesses in the future.
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Some of our baseload generation is dependent on natural gas and coal, and we pass through the costs for these energy sources to our customers. In addition, in our gas distribution business, we procure natural gas on behalf of certain customers, and we pass through the actual cost of the gas consumed. Diminished investor interest in funding fossil fuel development could reduce the amount of exploration and production of natural gas or coal, or investment in gas transmission pipelines. Reduced production and transportation of natural gas could, in the long-term, lead to supply shortages leading to baseload generation outages. Given that we pass through commodity costs to customers, this could also create the potential for regulatory questions resulting from increased customer costs. We are unable to forecast the future of commodity markets, but reduced fossil fuel investment, due to evolving investor sentiment, could lead to higher commodity prices and shortages impacting our generation and our reputation with regulators. Conversely, demand for our services may increase as a result of customer changes in response to climate change. For example, as the utilization of electric vehicles increases, demand for electricity may increase, resulting in increased usage of our systems and services.
Any negative views with respect to our environmental practices or our ability to meet the challenges posed by climate change from regulators, customers, investors or legislators could harm our reputation and adversely affect the perceived value of our products and services. Changes in policy to combat climate change, and technology advancement, each of which can also accelerate the implications of a transition to a lower carbon economy, may materially adversely impact our business, financial position, results of operations, and cash flows. For example, in February 2023, the Maryland Office of People's Counsel filed a petition with the Maryland Public Service Commission seeking an investigation regarding planning, practices, and future operations of natural gas suppliers in the state.
We are subject to operational and financial risks and liabilities associated with the implementation and efforts to achieve our carbon emission reduction goals.
On November 7, 2022, we announced our goal of reaching net zero Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 2040 (the “Net Zero Goal”). Achieving the Net Zero Goal will require supportive regulatory and legislative policies, favorable stakeholder environments and advancement of technologies that are not currently economical to deploy, the impacts and costs of which are not fully understood at this time. NIPSCO’s electric generation transition is a key element of the Net Zero Goal. Our analysis and plan for execution, which is outlined in the NIPSCO 2021 Integrated Resource Plan, requires us to make a number of assumptions. These goals and underlying assumptions involve risks and uncertainties and are not guarantees. Should one or more of our underlying assumptions prove incorrect, our actual results and ability to achieve our emissions goal could differ materially from our expectations. Certain of the assumptions that could impact our ability to meet our emissions goal include, but are not limited to: the accuracy of current emission measurements, service territory size and capacity needs remaining in line with expectations; regulatory approval; impacts of future environmental regulations or legislation; impact of future GHG pricing regulations or legislation, including a future carbon tax or methane fee; price, availability and regulation of carbon offsets; price of fuel, such as natural gas; cost of energy generation technologies, such as wind and solar, natural gas and storage solutions; adoption of alternative energy by the public, including adoption of electric vehicles; rate of technology innovation with regards to alternative energy resources; our ability to implement our modernization plans for our pipelines and facilities; the ability to complete and implement generation alternatives to NIPSCO’s coal generation and retirement dates of NIPSCO’s coal facilities by 2028; the ability to construct and/or permit new natural gas pipelines; the ability to procure resources needed to build at a reasonable cost, the lack of scarcity of resources and labor, project cancellations, construction delays or overruns and the ability to appropriately estimate costs of new generation; impact of any supply chain disruptions; and advancement of energy efficiencies. Any negative opinions with respect to these goals or our environmental practices, including any inability to achieve, or a scaling back of these goals, formed by regulators, customers, investors or legislators could harm our reputation and have an adverse effect on our financial condition.
FINANCIAL, ECONOMIC AND MARKET RISKS
We have substantial indebtedness which could adversely affect our financial condition.
Our business is capital intensive and we rely significantly on long-term debt to fund a portion of our capital expenditures and repay outstanding debt, and on short-term borrowings to fund a portion of day-to-day business operations. We had total consolidated indebtedness of $9,642.8$11,315.5 million outstanding as of December 31, 2019.2022. Our substantial indebtedness could have important consequences. For example, it could:
•limit our ability to borrow additional funds or increase the cost of borrowing additional funds;
•reduce the availability of cash flow from operations to fund working capital, capital expenditures and other general corporate purposes;
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•limit our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in the business and the industries in which we operate;
•lead parties with whom we do business to require additional credit support, such as letters of credit, in order for us to transact such business;
•place us at a competitive disadvantage compared to competitors that are less leveraged;
•increase vulnerability to general adverse economic and industry conditions; and
•limit our ability to execute on our growth strategy, which is dependent upon access to capital to fund our substantial infrastructure investment program.
Some of our debt obligations contain financial covenants related to debt-to-capital ratios and cross-default provisions. Our failure to comply with any of these covenants could result in an event of default, which, if not cured or waived, could result in the acceleration of outstanding debt obligations.
A drop in our credit ratings could adversely impact our cash flows, results of operation, financial condition and liquidity.
The availability and cost of credit for our businesses may be greatly affected by credit ratings. The credit rating agencies periodically review our ratings, taking into account factors such as our capital structure, earnings profile, and overall shifts in 2018 and 2019, the impacts of the TCJA and the Greater Lawrence Incident.economy or business environment. We are committed to maintaining investment grade credit ratings; however, there is no assurance we will be able to do so in the future. Our credit ratings could be lowered or withdrawn entirely by a rating agency if, in its judgment, the circumstances warrant. Any negative rating action could adversely affect our ability to access capital at rates and on terms that are attractive. A negative rating action could also adversely impact our business relationships with suppliers and operating partners, who may be less willing to extend credit or offer us similarly favorable terms as secured in the past under such circumstances.
Certain of our subsidiaries have agreements that contain “ratings triggers” that require increased collateral in the form of cash, a letter of credit or other forms of security for new and existing transactions if our credit ratings (including the standalone credit ratings of our or certain of our subsidiariessubsidiaries) are dropped below investment grade. These agreements are primarily for insurance purposes and for the physical purchase or sale of gas or power. As of December 31, 2019,2022, the collateral requirement that would be required in the event of a downgrade below the ratings trigger levels would amount to approximately $72.1$85.7 million. In addition to agreements with ratings triggers, there are other agreements that contain “adequate assurance” or “material adverse change” provisions that could necessitate additional credit support such as letters of credit and cash collateral to transact business.
If our or certain of our subsidiaries'subsidiaries’ credit ratings were downgraded, especially below investment grade, financing costs and the principal amount of borrowings would likely increase due to the additional risk of our debt and because certain counterparties may require additional credit support as described above. Such amounts may be material and could adversely affect our cash flows, results of operations and financial condition. Losing investment grade credit ratings may also result in more restrictive covenants and reduced flexibility on repayment terms in debt issuances, lower share price and greater stockholder dilution from common equity issuances, in addition to reputational damage within the investment community.
We may not be able to execute our business plan or growth strategy, including utility infrastructure investments.
Business or regulatory conditions may result in us not being able to execute our business plan or growth strategy, including identified, planned and other utility infrastructure investments. Our customer and regulatory initiatives may not achieve planned
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results. Utility infrastructure investments may not materialize, may cease to be achievable or economically viable and may not be successfully completed. Natural gas may cease to be viewed as an economically and environmentally attractive fuel. Certain groups and governmental entities may continue to oppose natural gas delivery and infrastructure investments because of perceived environmental impacts associated with the natural gas supply chain and end use. Energy conservation, energy efficiency, distributed generation, energy storage, policies favoring electric heat over gas heat and other factors may reduce demand for natural gas and energy. Any of these developments could adversely affect our results of operations and growth prospects. Even if our business plan and growth strategy are executed, there is still risk of, among other things, human error in maintenance, installation or operations, shortages or delays in obtaining equipment, and performance below expected levels (in addition to the other risks discussed in this section).
Adverse economic and market conditions, orincluding increased inflation, increases in interest rates, recession or changes in investor sentiment could materially and adversely affect our business, results of operations, cash flows, financial condition and liquidity.
While the national economy is experiencing modest growth, we cannot predict how robust future growth will beDeteriorating, sluggish or whether it will be sustained. Deteriorating or sluggishvolatile economic conditions in our operating jurisdictions could adversely impact our ability to maintain or grow our customer base and collect revenues from customers, which could reduce our revenue or growth rate and increase operating costs. In addition,A continued economic downturn or recession, or slowing or stalled recovery from such economic downturn or recession, may have a rising interest rate environment may lead to higher borrowing costs, which may adversely impact reported earnings, costmaterial adverse effect on our business, financial condition, or results of capital and capital holdings. Rising interest rates and negative market or company events may also result in a decrease in the price of our shares of common stock.operations.
We rely on access to the capital markets to finance our liquidity and long-term capital requirements, including expenditures for our utility infrastructure and to comply with future regulatory requirements, to the extent not satisfied by the cash flow generated by our operations. We have historically relied on long-term debt and on the issuance of equity securities to fund a portion of our capital expenditures and repay outstanding debt, and on short-term borrowings to fund a portion of day-to-day business operations. Actions to reduce inflation, including raising interest rates, increase our cost of borrowing, which in turn could make it more difficult to obtain financing for our operations or investments on favorable terms. Successful implementation of our long-term business strategies, including capital investment, is dependent upon our ability to access the
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capital and credit markets, including the banking and commercial paper markets, on competitive terms and rates. An economic downturn or uncertainty, market turmoil, changes in interest rates, changes in tax policy, challenges faced by financial institutions, changes in our credit ratings, or a change in investor sentiment toward us or the utilities industry generally could adversely affect our ability to raise additional capital or refinance debt. For example, because NIPSCO’s current generating facilities substantially rely on coal for its operations, certain financial institutions may choose not to participate in our financing arrangements. In addition, large institutional investors may choose to sell or choose not to purchase our stock due to environmental, social and governance (“ESG”) concerns or concerns regarding renewable energy supply chain challenges. Reduced access to capital markets, and/or increased borrowing costs, and/or lower equity valuation levels could reduce future net incomeearnings per share and cash flows. ReferIn addition, any rise in interest rates may lead to Note 14, “Long-Term Debt,”higher borrowing costs, which may adversely impact reported earnings, cost of capital and capital holdings.
If, in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for information related to outstanding long-term debt and maturities of that debt.
If any of these risks or uncertainties limit our accessfuture, we face limits to the credit and capital markets or significantly increase ourexperience significant increases in the cost of capital or are unable to access the capital markets, it could limit our ability to implement, or increase the costs of implementing, our business plan, which, in turn, could materially and adversely affect our results of operations, cash flows, financial condition and liquidity.
Capital market performanceThe COVID-19 pandemic has adversely impacted and other factors may decrease the valuecontinue to adversely impact our business, results of benefit plan assets, which then could require significant additional fundingoperations, financial condition, liquidity and impact earnings.cash flows.
The performanceCOVID-19 pandemic has resulted in widespread impacts on the global economy and financial markets. The duration and ultimate impact of the capital markets affects the value of the assets that are held in trust to satisfy future obligations under defined benefit pension and other postretirement benefit plans. We have significant obligations in these areas and hold significant assets in these trusts as noted in Note 11, "Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits," in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. These assets are subject to market fluctuations and may yield uncertain returns, which fall belowCOVID-19 pandemic on our projected rates of return. A decline in the market value of assets may increase the funding requirements of the obligations under the defined benefit pension and other postretirement benefit plans. Additionally, changes in interest rates affect the liabilities under these benefit plans; as interest rates decrease, the liabilities increase, which could potentially increase funding requirements. Further, the funding requirements of the obligations related to these benefits plans may increase due to changes in governmental regulations and participant demographics, including increased numbers of retirements or changes in life expectancy assumptions. In addition, lower asset returns result in increased expenses. Ultimately, significant funding requirements and increased pension or other postretirement benefit plan expense could negatively impact ourbusiness, results of operations and financial position.condition, including liquidity, capital and financing resources, will depend on numerous evolving factors and future developments, which are highly uncertain and cannot be predicted at this time. Such factors and developments may include the severity and duration of the COVID-19 pandemic, including whether there are periods of increased COVID-19 cases; the emergence of other new or more contagious variants that may render vaccines ineffective or less effective; disruption to our operations resulting from employee illnesses or any inability to attract, retain or motivate employees; the development, availability and administration of effective treatment or vaccines and the willingness of individuals to receive a vaccine; the extent and duration of the impact on the U.S. or global economy, including the pace and extent of recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic; and the actions that have been or may be taken by various governmental authorities in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
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The majorityMost of our revenues are subject to economic regulation and are exposed to the impact of regulatory rate reviews and proceedings.
Most of our revenues are subject to economic regulation at either the federal or state level. As such, the revenues generated by us are subject to regulatory review by the applicable federal or state authority. These rate reviews determine the rates charged to customers and directly impact revenues. Our financial results are dependent on frequent regulatory proceedings in order to ensure timely recovery of costs and investments. In addition to our ongoing regulatory proceedings, the recovery of the Greater Lawrence pipeline replacement capital investment will be addressedAs described in a future regulatory proceeding as discussed in Note 19, "Other Commitments and Contingencies - E. Other Matters”more detail in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Therisk factor below, the outcomes of these proceedings are uncertain, potentially lengthy and could be influenced by many factors, some of which may be outside of our control, including the cost of providing service, the necessity of expenditures, the quality of service, regulatory interpretations, customer intervention, economic conditions and the political environment. Further, the rate orders are subject to appeal, which creates additional uncertainty as to the rates that will ultimately be allowed to be charged for services. Additionally, the costs
The actions of complying with currentregulators and future changes in environmental and federal pipeline safety laws and regulations are expected to be significant, and their recovery through rates will also be contingent on regulatory approval.
Failure to adapt to advances in technology and manage the related costslegislators could make us less competitive and negatively impact our results of operations and financial condition.
A key element of our business model is that generating power at central station power plants achieves economies of scale and produces power at a competitive cost. We continue to research, plan for, and implement new technologies that produce power or reduce power consumption. These technologies include renewable energy, distributed generation, energy storage, and energy efficiency. Advances in technology and changes in laws or regulations (including subsidization) are reducing the cost of these or other alternative methods of producing power to a level that is competitive with that of most central station power electric production or result in smaller-scale, more fuel efficient, and/or more cost-effective distributed generation. This could cause power sales to declineoutcomes that may adversely affect our earnings and the value ofliquidity.
The rates that our generating facilities to decline. New technologies may require us to make significant expenditures to remain competitive and may result in the obsolescence of certain operating assets.
In addition, customers are increasingly expecting enhanced communications regarding their electric and natural gas services, which, in some cases, may involve additional investments in technology. Wecompanies charge their customers are determined by their state regulatory commissions and by the FERC. These commissions also rely on technologyregulate the companies’ accounting, operations, the issuance of certain securities and certain other matters. The FERC also regulates the transmission of electric energy, the sale of electric energy at wholesale, accounting, issuance of certain securities and certain other matters, including reliability standards through the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC).
Under state and federal law, our electric and natural gas companies are entitled to adequately maintain key business records.
Our future success will depend, in part, on our abilitycharge rates that are sufficient to anticipate and successfully adapt to technological changes, to offer services that meet customer demands and evolving industry standards, andallow them an opportunity to recover all,their prudently incurred operating and capital costs and a reasonable rate of return on invested capital, to attract needed capital and maintain their financial integrity, while also protecting relevant public interests. Our electric and natural gas companies are required to engage in regulatory approval proceedings as a part of the process of establishing the terms and rates for their respective services. Each of these companies prepares and submits periodic rate filings with their respective regulatory commissions for review and approval, which allows for various entities to challenge our current or a significant portionfuture rates, structures or mechanisms and could alter or limit the rates we are allowed to charge our customers. These proceedings typically involve multiple parties, including governmental bodies and officials, consumer advocacy groups, and various consumers of any unrecovered investmentenergy, who have differing concerns. Any change in obsolete assets. A failure by us to effectively adapt torates, including changes in technology and manage the related costs could harm our ability to remain competitive in the marketplace for our products, services and processes and could have a material adverse impact on our resultsallowed rate of operations and financial condition.
The Greater Lawrence Incident has materially adversely affected and may continue to materially adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
In connection with the Greater Lawrence Incident, we have incurred and will incur various costs and expenses as set forth in Note 6, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets," Note 19, "Other Commitments and Contingencies - C. Legal Proceedings," and “- E. Other Matters" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Wereturn, are subject to inquiries and investigations by government authorities and regulatory agencies regarding the Greater Lawrence Incident, including the Massachusetts DPU and the Massachusetts Attorney General's Office. We are cooperating with all inquiries and investigations. In addition, on February 26, 2020, the Company and Columbia of Massachusetts entered into agreements with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to resolve the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s investigation relating to the Greater Lawrence Incident, as described further below.
As more information becomes known, management's estimates and assumptions regarding the costs and expenses to be incurred and the financial impact of the Greater Lawrence Incident may change. A change in management’s estimates or assumptions could result in an adjustment that would have a material impact on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows during the period in which such change occurred.
While we have recovered the full amount of our liability insurance coverage available under our policies, total expenses related to the incident have exceeded such amount. Expenses in excess of our liability insurance coverage have materially adversely affected and may continue to materially adversely affect our results of operations, cash flows and financial position.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
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Weto regulatory approval proceedings that can be contentious, lengthy, and subject to appeal. This may lead to uncertainty as to the ultimate result of those proceedings. Established rates are also incur additional costs associated with the Greater Lawrence Incident, beyond the amount currently anticipated,subject to subsequent prudency reviews by state regulators, whereby various portions of rates could be adjusted, subject to refund or disallowed, including in connection with investigations by regulators as well as civil litigation. Further, state or federal legislation may be enacted that would require us to incur additional costs by mandating various changes, including changes tocost recovery mechanisms. The ultimate outcome and timing of regulatory rate proceedings could have a significant effect on our operating practice standards for natural gas distribution operations and safety. If we are unableability to recover the capital cost of the gas pipeline replacementcosts or earn an adequate return. Adverse decisions in the impacted area or we incur a material amount of other costs that we are unable to recover through rates or offset through operational or other cost savings,our proceedings could adversely affect our financial condition,position, results of operations and cash flows could be materially and adversely affected.flows.
Further, if it is determined in other matters that we did not comply with applicable statutes, regulations, rules, tariffs, or orders in connection with the Greater Lawrence Incident or in connection with the operations or maintenance of our natural gas system, and we are ordered to pay additional amounts in customer refunds, penalties, or other amounts, our financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows could be materially and adversely affected.
Our settlement with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in respect of federal charges in connection with the Greater Lawrence Incident may expose us to further penalties, liabilities and private litigation, and may impact our operations.
On February 26, 2020, the Company entered into a DPA and Columbia of Massachusetts entered into a plea agreement with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to resolve the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s investigation relating to the Greater Lawrence Incident. Columbia of Massachusetts’ plea agreement with the U.S. Attorney’s Office is subject to approval by the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts (the "Court"). If Columbia of Massachusetts’ guilty plea is not accepted by the Court or is withdrawn for any reason, the U.S. Attorney's Office may, at its sole option, render the DPA null and void. See Note 19, “Other Commitments and Contingencies - C. Legal Proceedings” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. The agreements impose various compliance and remedial obligations on the Company and Columbia of Massachusetts. Failure to comply with the terms of these agreements could result in further enforcement action by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, expose the Company and Columbia of Massachusetts to penalties, financial or otherwise, and subjects the Company to further private litigation, each of which could impact our operations and have a material adverse effect on our business.
The closing of the sale of the Massachusetts Business is subject to receipt of clearance and approval from various governmental entities and other closing conditions that may not be satisfied or waived, and, in order to receive such clearance, consent or approval, governmental entities may impose conditions, terms, obligations or restrictions that Eversource is not obligated to accept in order to complete the transaction.
On February 26, 2020, NiSource, Columbia of Massachusetts and Eversource entered into the Asset Purchase Agreement providing for the sale of the Massachusetts Business to Eversource. The Asset Purchase Agreement provides for various closing conditions, including (a) the expiration or termination of the waiting period under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, (b) the receipt of the approval of the Massachusetts DPU (the “MDPU Approval”) and (c) the final resolution or termination of all pending actions, claims and proceedings against Seller and its affiliates under the jurisdiction of the Massachusetts DPU and all future, actions, claims and proceedings against Seller and its affiliates relating to the Greater Lawrence Incident under the jurisdiction of the Massachusetts DPU.
The satisfaction of many of the closing conditions is beyond our control. We may not receive the required clearance and approvals for the transaction or the required resolution with the Massachusetts DPU, or we may not receive them in a timely manner. In addition, governmental entities could impose conditions, terms, obligations or restrictions as conditions for their approvals and as conditions to resolve certain proceedings, and these may include substantial payments by us. Moreover, Eversource is not required to agree to any conditions, terms, obligations or restrictions to obtain required clearance and approvals if such conditions, terms, obligations or restrictions would reasonably be expected to constitute a “burdensome condition” as defined in the Asset Purchase Agreement. There can be no assurance that regulators will not seek to impose conditions, terms, obligations or restrictionsapprove the recovery of all costs incurred by our electric and natural gas companies, including costs for construction, operation and maintenance, and compliance with current and future changes in environmental, federal pipeline safety, critical infrastructure and cyber security laws and regulations. Challenges arise with state regulators on inflationary pricing for electric and gas materials and potential price increases, ensuring that would constitute burdensome conditions.
If the closing conditions are not satisfied orupdated pricing for electric and gas materials is included in plans and regulatory assumptions, and ensuring there is a substantial delayregulatory recovery model for emergency inventory stock. There is debate among state regulators and other stakeholders over how to transition to a decarbonized economy and prudency arguments relative to investing in obtainingnatural gas assets when the required clearance and approvals, or otherwise satisfying the closing conditions, the saledepreciable life of the Massachusetts Businessassets may not be completed,shortened due to electrification. The inability to recover a significant amount of operating costs could have an adverse effect on a company’s financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
Changes to rates may occur at times different from when costs are incurred. Additionally, catastrophic events at other utilities could result in our regulators and legislators imposing additional requirements that may lead to additional costs for the companies.
In addition to the risk of disallowance of incurred costs, regulators may also impose downward adjustments in a company’s allowed ROE as well as assess penalties and fines. Regulators may reduce ROE to mitigate potential customer bill increases due to items unrelated to capital investments such as potential increases in taxes and incremental costs related to COVID-19. These actions would have an adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
Our electric business is subject to mandatory reliability and critical infrastructure protection standards established by NERC and enforced by the FERC. The critical infrastructure protection standards focus on controlling access to critical physical and cybersecurity assets. Compliance with the mandatory reliability standards could subject our electric utilities to higher operating costs. In addition, compliance with PHMSA regulations could subject our gas utilities to higher operating costs. If our businesses are found to be in noncompliance, we may lose somecould be subject to sanctions, including substantial monetary penalties, or alldamage to our reputation.
Changes in tax laws, as well as the potential tax effects of the intended benefits of the sale.
The sale of the Massachusetts Business poses risks and challenges thatbusiness decisions, could negatively impact our business, and we may not realize the expected benefits of the sale of the Massachusetts Business.
The sale of the Massachusetts Business involves separation or carve-out activities and costs and possible disputes with Eversource. Following the sale, we may have continued financial liabilities with respect to the business conducted by Columbia of Massachusetts,
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
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as we will be required to retain responsibility for, and indemnify Eversource against, certain liabilities, including liabilities for any fines arising out of the Greater Lawrence Incident and liabilities of Columbia of Massachusetts or its affiliates pursuant to civil claims for injury of persons or damage to property to the extent such injury or damage occurs prior to the closing in connection with Columbia of Massachusetts’ business. It may also be difficult to determine whether a claim from a third party is our responsibility, and we may expend substantial resources trying to determine whether we or Eversource has responsibility for the claim.
If we do not realize the expected benefits of the sale of the Massachusetts Business, our consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows could be negatively impacted. The sale of the Massachusetts Business may result in a dilutive impact to(including our future earnings if we are unable to offset the dilutive impactexpected project returns from the loss of revenue associated with the sale, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.
The failure to complete the transactions contemplated by the Asset Purchase Agreement within the expected time frame or at all could adversely affect our business,planned renewable energy projects), financial condition and results of operations and the price of our common stock.
If the sale of the Massachusetts Business is not completed by October 26, 2020 (subject to up to two automatic 45-day extensions under certain circumstances related to obtaining required regulatory approvals and resolution with the Massachusetts DPU), we or Eversource may choose not to proceed with the transaction. Completion of the transaction is subject to risks, including the risks that approval of the transaction by governmental entities will not be obtained or that certain other closing conditions will not be satisfied. A failure to complete the transaction may result in negative publicity and a negative impression of us in the investment community. Moreover, under the terms of the settlement with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, we will be obligated to use reasonable best efforts to sell Columbia of Massachusetts’ business, and there is no assurance that we will be able to sell such business to a third party on as favorable terms, if at all. The occurrence of any of these events, individually or in combination, could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition or the trading price of our common stock.
Our gas distribution activities, as well as generation, transmission and distribution of electricity, involve a variety of inherent hazards and operating risks, including potential public safety risks.
Our gas distribution activities, as well as generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity, involve a variety of inherent hazards and operating risks, including, but not limited to, gas leaks and over-pressurization, downed power lines, damage to our infrastructure by third parties, outages, environmental spills, mechanical problems and other incidents, which could cause substantial financial losses, as demonstrated in part by the Greater Lawrence Incident. In addition, these hazards and risks have resulted and may in the future result in serious injury or loss of life to employees and/or the general public, significant damage to property, environmental pollution, impairment of our operations, adverse regulatory rulings and reputational harm, which in turn could lead to substantial losses for us. The location of pipeline facilities, or generation, transmission, substation and distribution facilities near populated areas, including residential areas, commercial business centers and industrial sites, could increase the level of damages resulting from such incidents. As with the Greater Lawrence Incident, certain incidents have subjected and may in the future subject us to litigation or administrative or other legal proceedings from time to time, both civil and criminal, which could result in substantial monetary judgments, fines, or penalties against us, be resolved on unfavorable terms, and require us to incur significant operational expenses. The occurrence of incidents has in certain instances adversely affected and could in the future adversely affect our reputation, cash flows, financial position and/or results of operations. We maintain insurance against some, but not all, of these risks and losses.
We may be unable to obtain insurance on acceptable terms or at all. Our liability insurance coverage did not provide protection against all significant losses as a result of the Greater Lawrence Incident and may not provide protection against all significant losses in the future.
Our ability to obtain insurance, as well as the cost and coverage of such insurance, are affected by developments affecting our business; international, national, state, or local events; and the financial condition of insurers. The insurance market is experiencing a hardening environment due to reductions in commercial suppliers and the capacity they are willing to issue, increases in overall demand for capacity, and a prevalence of severe losses. NiSource has been particularly affected by the current market conditions. We have not been able to obtain liability insurance coverage at previously procured limits at rates that are acceptable to us. Insurance coverage may not continue to be available at limits, rates or terms acceptable to us. The premiums we pay for our insurance coverage have significantly increased as a result of market conditions and the accumulated loss ratio over the history of NiSource operations, and we expect that they will continue to increase as a result of market conditions. In addition, our insurance is not sufficient or effective under all circumstances and against all hazards or liabilities to which we are subject. For example, total expenses related to the Greater Lawrence Incident have exceeded the total amount of liability coverage available under our policies.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
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Also, certain types of damages, expenses or claimed costs, such as fines and penalties, may be excluded under the policies. In addition, insurers providing insurance to us may raise defenses to coverage under the terms and conditions of the respective insurance policies that could result in a denial of coverage or limit the amount of insurance proceeds available to us. Any losses for which we are not fully insured or that are not covered by insurance at all could materially adversely affect our results of operations, cash flows, and financial position. For example, expenses related to the Greater Lawrence Incident that we are unable to recover from liability or property insurance have materially adversely affected and may continue to materially adversely affect our results of operations. For more information regarding our insurance programs in the context of the Greater Lawrence Incident, see Note 19, "Other Commitments and Contingencies - C. Legal Proceedings," and " - E. Other Matters" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
The outcome of legal and regulatory proceedings, investigations, inquiries, claims and litigation related to our business operations, including those related to the Greater Lawrence Incident, may have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial position or liquidity.
We areinvolved in legal and regulatory proceedings, investigations, inquiries, claims and litigation in connection with our business operations, including the Greater Lawrence Incident, the most significant of which are summarized in Note 19, “Other Commitments and Contingencies” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. Our insurance does not cover all costs and expenses that we have incurred and that we may incur in the future relating to the Greater Lawrence Incident, and may not fully cover other incidents that may occur in the future. Due to the inherent uncertainty of the outcomes of such matters, there can be no assurance that the resolution of any particular claim or proceeding would not have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial position or liquidity. Certain matters in connection with the Greater Lawrence Incident have had or may have a material impact as described in Note 19, "Other Commitments and Contingencies" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. If one or more of such additional or other matters were decided against us, the effects could be material to our results of operations in the period in which we would be required to record or adjust the related liability and could also be material to our cash flows in the periods that we would be required to pay such liability.
We are exposed to significant reputational risks, which make us vulnerable to a loss of cost recovery, increased litigation and negative public perception.
As a utility company, we are subject to adverse publicity focused on the reliability of our services, the speed with which we are able to respond effectively to electric outages, natural gas leaks or events and related accidents and similar interruptions caused by storm damage or other unanticipated events, as well as our own or third parties' actions or failure to act. We are also subject to adverse publicity related to actual or perceived environmental impacts. If customers, legislators, or regulators have or develop a negative opinion of us, this could result in less favorable legislative and regulatory outcomes or increased regulatory oversight, increased litigation and negative public perception. The adverse publicity and investigations we experienced as a result of the Greater Lawrence Incident may have an ongoing negative impact on the public’s perception of us. It is difficult to predict the ultimate impact of this adverse publicity. The foregoing may have continuing adverse effects on our business, results of operations, cash flow and financial condition.
Our businesses are subject to various laws, regulations and tariffs. We could be materially adversely affected if we fail to comply with such laws, regulations and tariffs or with any changes in or new interpretations of such laws, regulations and tariffs.
Our businesses are subject to various laws, regulations and tariffs, including, but not limited to, those relating to natural gas pipeline safety, employee safety, the environment and our energy infrastructure. Existing laws, regulations and tariffs may be revised or become subject to new interpretations, and new laws, regulations and tariffs may be adopted or become applicable to us and our operations. In some cases, compliance with new laws, regulations and tariffs increases our costs. If we fail to comply with laws, regulations and tariffs applicable to us or with any changes in or new interpretations of such laws, regulations or tariffs, our financial condition, results of operations, regulatory outcomes and cash flows may be materially adversely affected.
Our businesses are regulated under numerous environmental laws. The cost of compliance with these laws, and changes to or additions to, or reinterpretations of the laws, could be significant. Liability from the failure to comply with existing or changed laws could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.
Our businesses are subject to extensive federal, state and local environmental laws and rules that regulate, among other things, air emissions, water usage and discharges, GHG and waste products such as coal combustion residuals. Compliance with these legal obligations require us to make expenditures for installation of pollution control equipment, remediation, environmental monitoring, emissions fees, and permits at many of our facilities. These expenditures are significant, and we expect that they will continue to
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be significant in the future. Furthermore, if we fail to comply with environmental laws and regulations or are found to have caused damage to the environment or persons, that failure or harm may result in the assessment of civil or criminal penalties and damages against us and injunctions to remedy the failure or harm.
Existing environmental laws and regulations may be revised and new laws and regulations seeking to change environmental regulation of the energy industry may be adopted or become applicable to us, with an increased focus on both coal and natural gas in recent years. Revised or additional laws and regulations may result in significant additional expense and operating restrictions on our facilities or increased compliance costs, which may not be fully recoverable from customers through regulated rates and could, therefore, impact our financial position, financial results and cash flow. Moreover, such costs could materially affect the continued economic viability of one or more of our facilities.
An area of significant uncertainty and risk are the laws concerning emission of GHG. While we continue to reduce GHG emissions through the retirement of coal-fired electric generation, priority pipeline replacement, energy efficiency, leak detection and repair, and other programs, and expect to further reduce GHG emissions through increased use of renewable energy, GHG emissions are currently an expected aspect of the electric and natural gas business. Revised or additional future GHG legislation and/or regulation related to the generation of electricity or the extraction, production, distribution, transmission, storage and end use of natural gas could materially impact our gas supply, financial position, financial results and cash flows.
Even in instances where legal and regulatory requirements are already known or anticipated, the original cost estimates for environmental improvements, remediation of past environmental impact, or pollution reduction strategies and equipment can differ materially from the amount ultimately expended. The actual future expenditures depend on many factors, including the nature and extent of impact, the method of improvement, the cost of raw materials, contractor costs, and requirements established by environmental authorities. Changes in costs and the ability to recover under regulatory mechanisms could affect our financial position, financial results and cash flows.
A significant portion of the gas and electricity we sell is used by residential and commercial customers for heating and air conditioning. Accordingly, fluctuations in weather, gas and electricity commodity costs and economic conditions impact demand of our customers and our operating results.
Energy sales are sensitive to variations in weather. Forecasts of energy sales are based on “normal” weather, which represents a long-term historical average. Significant variations from normal weather could have, and have had, a material impact on energy sales. Additionally, residential usage, and to some degree commercial usage, is sensitive to fluctuations in commodity costs for gas and electricity, whereby usage declines with increased costs, thus affecting our financial results. Lastly, residential and commercial customers’ usage is sensitive to economic conditions and factors such as unemployment, consumption and consumer confidence. Therefore, prevailing economic conditions affecting the demand of our customers may in turn affect our financial results.
Our business operations are subject to economic conditions in certain industries.
Business operations throughout our service territories have been and may continue to be adversely affected by economic events at the national and local level where it operates.our businesses operate. In particular, sales to large industrial customers, such as those in the steel, oil refining, industrial gas and related industries, may beare impacted by economic downturns and recession; geographic or technological shifts in production or production methods.methods; and consumer demand for environmentally friendly products and practices. The U.S. manufacturing industry continues to adjust to changing market conditions including international competition, inflation and increasing costs, and fluctuating demand for its products.
The implementation of NIPSCO’s electric generation strategy, including the retirement of its coal generation units, may not achieve intended results.
On October 31, 2018, NIPSCO submitted its 2018 Integrated Resource Plan with the IURC setting forth its short- and long-term electric generation plans in an effort to maintain affordability while providing reliable, flexible and cleaner sources of power. The plan evaluated demand-side and supply-side resource alternatives to reliably and cost-effectively meet NIPSCO customers' future energy requirements over the ensuing 20 years. The preferred option within the Integrated Resource Plan sets forth a schedule to retire R.M. Schahfer Generating Station (Units 14, 15, 17, and 18) in 2023 and Michigan City Generating Station (Unit 12) in 2028. The current replacement plan includes renewable sources of energy, including wind, solar, and battery storage.
As part of this plan, NIPSCO has IURC approval for the Jordan Creek PPA for 400 MW, the Indiana Crossroads BTA for 300 MW and the Rosewater BTA for 100 MW. Each is a separate facility and all MW are nameplate capacity. NIPSCO has filed a notice with the IURC of its intention not to move forward with one of its approved PPAs due to the failure to meet a condition precedent in the agreement as a result of local zoning restrictions.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
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There are inherent risks and uncertainties in executing the Integrated Resource Plan, including changes in market conditions, regulatory approvals, environmental regulations, commodity costs and customer expectations, which may impede NIPSCO’s ability to achieve the intended results. NIPSCO’s future success will depend, in part, on its ability to successfully implement its long-term electric generation plans, to offer services that meet customer demands and evolving industry standards, and to recover all, or a significant portion of, any unrecovered investment in obsolete assets. NIPSCO’s electric generation strategy could require significant future capital expenditures, operating costs and charges to earnings that may negatively impact our financial position, financial results and cash flows.
Fluctuations in the price of energy commodities or their related transportation costs or an inability to obtain an adequate, reliable and cost-effective fuel supply to meet customer demands may have a negative impact on our financial results.
Our electric generating fleet is dependent on coal and natural gas for fuel, and our gas distribution operations purchase and resell much of the natural gas we deliver to our customers. These energy commodities are vulnerable to price fluctuations and fluctuations in associated transportation costs. From time to time, we have also used hedging in order to offset fluctuations in commodity supply prices. We rely on regulatory recovery mechanisms in the various jurisdictions in order to fully recover the commodity costs incurred in providing service. However, while we have historically been successful in the recovery of costs related to such commodity prices, there can be no assurance that such costs will be fully recovered through rates in a timely manner.
In addition, we depend on electric transmission lines, natural gas pipelines, and other transportation facilities owned and operated by third parties to deliver the electricity and natural gas we sell to wholesale markets, supply natural gas to our gas storage and electric generation facilities, and provide retail energy services to customers. If transportation is disrupted, or if capacity is inadequate, we may be unable to sell and deliver our gas and electricservices to some or all of our customers. As a result, we may be required to procure additional or alternative electricity and/or natural gas supplies at then-current market rates, which, if recovery of related costs is disallowed, could have a material adverse effect on our businesses, financial condition, cash flows, results of operations and/or prospects.are negatively impacted by lower revenues resulting from higher bankruptcies, predominately focused on commercial and industrial customers not able to sustain operations through the economic disruptions related to the pandemic.
We are exposed to risk that customers will not remit payment for delivered energy or services, and that suppliers or counterparties will not perform under various financial or operating agreements.
Our extension of credit is governed by a Corporate Credit Risk Policy, involves considerable judgment by our employees and is based on an evaluation of a customer or counterparty’s financial condition, credit history and other factors. We monitor our credit risk exposureby obtaining credit reports and updated financial information for customers and suppliers, and by evaluating the financial status of our banking partners and other counterparties by reference to market-based metrics such as credit default swap pricing levels, and to traditional credit ratings provided by the major credit rating agencies. Adverse economic conditions could result in an increase in defaults by customers, suppliers and counterparties.
We have significant goodwill and definite-lived intangible assets. Impairments of goodwill and definite-lived intangible assets related to Columbia of Massachusetts have resulted in significant charges to earnings for the quarter and year ended December 31, 2019. Any future impairments of other goodwill could result in a significant charge to earnings in a future period and negatively impact our compliance with certain covenants under financing agreements.
In accordance with GAAP, we test goodwill for impairment at least annually and review our definite-lived intangible assets for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate its fair value might be below its carrying value. Goodwill is also tested for impairment when factors, examples of which include reduced cash flow estimates, a sustained decline in stock price or market capitalization below book value, indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable.
We are required to record a charge in our financial statements for a period in which any impairment of our goodwill or definite-lived intangible assets is determined, negatively impacting our results of operations. In connection with the preparation of our financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2019, we conducted an impairment analysis for the goodwill and definite-lived intangible assets (franchise rights) related to Columbia of Massachusetts and concluded that such goodwill and franchise rights were impaired. As a result, we recorded an impairment charge of $204.8 million for such goodwill and an impairment charge of $209.7 million for such franchise rights at December 31, 2019. For additional information, see Note 6, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets,” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
A significant charge in the future could impact the capitalization ratio covenant under certain financing agreements. We are subject to a financial covenant under our revolving credit facility and term loan agreement, which require us to maintain a debt to capitalization ratio that does not exceed 70%. A similar covenant in a 2005 private placement note purchase agreement requires us to maintain a debt to capitalization ratio that does not exceed 75%. As of December 31, 2019, the ratio was 61.7%.
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NISOURCE INC.
Changes in taxation and the ability to quantify such changes as well as challenges to tax positions could adversely affect our financial results.
We are subject to taxation by the various taxing authorities at the federal, state and local levels where we do business. Legislation or regulation which could affect our tax burden could be enacted by any of these governmental authorities. For example, the TCJA includes numerous provisions that affect businesses, including changes to U.S. corporate tax rates, business-related exclusions, and deductions and credits. The outcome of regulatory proceedings regarding the extent to which the effect of a change in corporate tax rate will impact customers and the time period over which the impact will occur could significantly impact future earnings and cash flows. Separately, a challenge by a taxing authority, changes in taxing authorities’ administrative interpretations, decisions, policies and positions, our ability to utilize tax benefits such as carryforwards or tax credits, or a deviation from other tax-related assumptions may cause actual financial results to deviate from previous estimates.
Changes in accounting principles may adversely affect our financial results.
Future changes in accounting rules and associated changes in regulatory accounting may negatively impact the way we record revenues, expenses, assets and liabilities. These changes in accounting standards may adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.
Aging infrastructure may lead to disruptions in operations and increased capital expenditures and maintenance costs, all of which could negatively impact our financial results.
We have risks associated with aging infrastructure, including our gas infrastructure assets. These risks can be driven by threats such as, but not limited to, internal corrosion, external corrosion and stress corrosion cracking. The age of these assets may result in a need for replacement, a higher level of maintenance costs, or unscheduled outages, despite efforts by us to properly maintain or upgrade these assets through inspection, scheduled maintenance and capital investment. In addition, the nature of the information available on aging infrastructure assets, which in some cases is incomplete, may make inspections, maintenance, upgrading and replacement of the assets particularly challenging. Additionally, missing or incorrect infrastructure data may lead to (1) difficulty properly locating facilities, which can result in excavator damage and operational or emergency response issues, and (2) configuration and control risks associated with the modification of system operating pressures in connection with turning off or turning on service to customers, which can result in unintended outages or operating pressures. Also, additional maintenance and inspections are required in some instances in order to improve infrastructure information and records and address emerging regulatory or risk management requirements, which increases our costs. The failure to operate these assets as desired could result in gas leaks and other incidents and in our inability to meet firm service obligations, which could adversely impact revenues, and could also result in increased capital expenditures and maintenance costs, which, if not fully recovered from customers, could negatively impact our financial results.
The impacts of climate change, natural disasters, acts of terrorism, accidents or other catastrophic events may disrupt operations and reduce the ability to service customers.
A disruption or failure of natural gas distribution systems, or within electric generation, transmission or distribution systems, in the event of a major hurricane, tornado, terrorist attack, cyber-attack (as further detailed below), accident or other catastrophic event could cause delays in completing sales, providing services, or performing other critical functions. We have experienced disruptions in the past from hurricanes and tornadoes and other events of this nature. The occurrence of such events could adversely affect our financial position and results of operations. In accordance with customary industry practice, we maintain insurance against some, but not all, of these risks and losses. There is also a concern that climate change may exacerbate the risks to physical infrastructure. Such risks include heat stresses to power lines, storms that damage infrastructure, lake and sea level changes that affect the manner in which services are currently provided, droughts or other stresses on water used to supply services, and other extreme weather conditions. Climate change and the costs that may be associated with its impacts have the potential to affect our business in many ways, including increasing the costs we incur in providing our products and services, impacting the demand for and consumption of our products and services (due to change in both costs and weather patterns), and affecting the economic health of the regions in which we operate.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
NISOURCE INC.
A cyber-attack on any of our or certain third-party computer systems upon which we rely may adversely affect our ability to operate and could lead to a loss or misuse of confidential and proprietary information or potential liability.
We are reliant on technology to run our business, which is dependent upon financial and operational computer systems to process critical information necessary to conduct various elements of our business, including the generation, transmission and distribution of electricity, operation of our gas pipeline facilities and the recording and reporting of commercial and financial transactions to regulators, investors and other stakeholders. In addition to general information and cyber risks that all large corporations face (e.g., malware, unauthorized access attempts, phishing attacks, malicious intent by insiders and inadvertent disclosure of sensitive information), the utility industry faces evolving and increasingly complex cybersecurity risks associated with protecting sensitive and confidential customer information, electric grid infrastructure, and natural gas infrastructure. Deployment of new business technologies represents a new and large-scale opportunity for attacks on our information systems and confidential customer information, as well as on the integrity of the energy grid and the natural gas infrastructure. Increasing large-scale corporate attacks in conjunction with more sophisticated threats continue to challenge power and utility companies. Any failure of our computer systems, or those of our customers, suppliers or others with whom we do business, could materially disrupt our ability to operate our business and could result in a financial loss and possibly do harm to our reputation.
Additionally, our information systems experience ongoing, often sophisticated, cyber-attacks by a variety of sources, including foreign sources, with the apparent aim to breach our cyber-defenses. Although we attempt to maintain adequate defenses to these attacks and work through industry groups and trade associations to identify common threats and assess our countermeasures, a security breach of our information systems, or a security breach of the information systems of our customers, suppliers or others with whom we do business, could (i) impact the reliability of our generation, transmission and distribution systems and potentially negatively impact our compliance with certain mandatory reliability standards, (ii) subject us to reputational and other harm or liabilities associated with theft or inappropriate release of certain types of information such as system operating information or information, personal or otherwise, relating to our customers or employees, (iii) impact our ability to manage our businesses, and/or (iv) subject us to legal and regulatory proceedings and claims from third parties, in addition to remediation costs, any of which, in turn, could have a material adverse effect on our businesses, cash flows, financial condition, results of operations and/or prospects. Although we do maintain cyber insurance, it is possible that such insurance will not adequately cover any losses or liabilities we may incur as a result of any cybersecurity-related litigation.
Our capital projects and programs subject us to construction risks and natural gas costs and supply risks, and require numerous permits, approvals and certificates from various governmental agencies.
Our business requires substantial capital expenditures for investments in, among other things, capital improvements to our electric generating facilities, electric and natural gas distribution infrastructure, natural gas storage, and other projects, including projects for environmental compliance. We are engaged in intrastate natural gas pipeline modernization programs to maintain system integrity and enhance service reliability and flexibility. NIPSCO also is currently engaged in a number of capital projects, including environmental improvements to its electric generating stations, the construction of new transmission facilities, and new projects related to renewable energy. As we undertake these projects and programs, we may be unable to complete them on schedule or at the anticipated costs. Additionally, we may construct or purchase some of these projects and programs to capture anticipated future growth in natural gas production, which may not materialize, and may cause the construction to occur over an extended period of time.
Our existing and planned capital projects require numerous permits, approvals and certificates from federal, state, and local governmental agencies. If there is a delay in obtaining any required regulatory approvals or if we fail to obtain or maintain any required approvals or to comply with any applicable laws or regulations, we may not be able to construct or operate our facilities, we may be forced to incur additional costs, or we may be unable to recover any or all amounts invested in a project. We also may not receive the anticipated increases in revenue and cash flows resulting from such projects and programs until after their completion. Other construction risks include changes in costs of materials, equipment, commodities or labor (including changes to tariffs on materials), delays caused by construction incidents or injuries, work stoppages, shortages in qualified labor, poor initial cost estimates, unforeseen engineering issues, the ability to obtain necessary rights-of-way, easements and transmissions connections and general contractors and subcontractors not performing as required under their contracts.
To the extent that delays occur, costs become unrecoverable, or we otherwise become unable to effectively manage and complete our capital projects, our results of operations, cash flows, and financial condition may be adversely affected.
Sustained extreme weather conditions may negatively impact our operations.
We conduct our operations across a wide geographic area subject to varied and potentially extreme weather conditions, which may from time to time persist for sustained periods of time. Despite preventative maintenance efforts, persistent weather related stress
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
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on our infrastructure may reveal weaknesses in our systems not previously known to us or otherwise present various operational challenges across all business segments. Further, adverse weather may affect our ability to conduct operations in a manner that satisfies customer expectations or contractual obligations, including by causing service disruptions.
Failure to attract and retain an appropriately qualified workforce, and maintain good labor relations, could harm our results of operations.
We operate in an industry that requires many of our employees to possess unique technical skill sets. Events such as an aging workforce without appropriate replacements, the mismatch of skill sets to future needs, or the unavailability of contract resources may lead to operating challenges or increased costs. These operating challenges include lack of resources, loss of knowledge, and a lengthy time period associated with skill development. In addition, current and prospective employees may determine that they do not wish to work for us due to market, economic, employment and other conditions. Failure to hire and retain qualified employees, including the ability to transfer significant internal historical knowledge and expertise to the new employees, may adversely affect our ability to manage and operate our business. If we are unable to successfully attract and retain an appropriately qualified workforce, safety, service reliability, customer satisfaction and our results of operations could be adversely affected.
Some of our employees are subject to collective bargaining agreements. Our collective bargaining agreements are generally negotiated on an operating company basis. Any failure to reach an agreement on new labor contracts or to negotiate these labor contracts might result in strikes, boycotts or other labor disruptions. Labor disruptions, strikes or significant negotiated wage and benefit increases, whether due to union activities, employee turnover or otherwise, could have a material adverse effect on our businesses, results of operations and/or cash flows.
We are a holding company and are dependent on cash generated by our subsidiaries to meet our debt obligations and pay dividends on our stock.
We are a holding company and conduct our operations primarily through our subsidiaries, which are separate and distinct legal entities. Substantially all of our consolidated assets are held by our subsidiaries. Accordingly, our ability to meet our debt obligations or pay dividends on our common stock and preferred stock is largely dependent upon cash generated by these subsidiaries. In the event a major subsidiary is not able to pay dividends or transfer cash flows to us, our ability to service our debt obligations or pay dividends could be negatively affected.
IfThe trading prices for our Equity Units, initially consisting of Corporate Units, and related treasury units and Series C Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock, are expected to be affected by, among other things, the trading prices of our common stock, the general level of interest rates and our credit quality.
The trading prices of the Equity Units, initially consisting of Corporate Units, which are listed on the New York Stock Exchange, and the related treasury units and Series C Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock in the secondary market, are expected to be affected by, among other things, the trading prices of our common stock, the general level of interest rates and our credit quality. It is impossible to predict whether the price of our common stock or interest rates will rise or fall. The price of our common stock could be subject to wide fluctuations in the future in response to many events or factors, including those discussed in the risk factors herein, many of which events and factors are beyond our control. Fluctuations in interest rates may give rise to arbitrage opportunities based upon changes in the relative value of the common stock underlying the purchase contracts and of the other components of the Equity Units. Any such arbitrage could, in turn, affect the trading prices of the Corporate Units, treasury units, mandatory convertible preferred stock and our common stock.
The early settlement right triggered under certain circumstances and the supermajority rights of the Series C Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock following a fundamental change, could discourage a potential acquirer.
The fundamental change early settlement right with respect to the purchase contracts triggered under certain circumstances by a fundamental change and the supermajority voting rights of the Series C Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock in connection with certain fundamental change transactions jointly could discourage a potential acquirer, including potential acquirers that would otherwise seek a transaction with us that would be attractive to our investors.
Our Equity Units, initially consisting of Corporate Units, and related Series C Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock, and the issuance and sale of common stock in settlement of the purchase contracts and conversion of mandatory convertible preferred stock, may all adversely affect the market price of our common stock and will cause dilution to our stockholders.
The market price of our common stock is likely to be influenced by our Equity Units, initially consisting of Corporate Units, and related mandatory convertible preferred stock. For example, the market price of our common stock could become more volatile and could be depressed by:
•investors’ anticipation of the sale into the market of a substantial number of additional shares of our common stock issued upon settlement of the purchase contracts or conversion of our mandatory convertible preferred stock;
•possible sales of our common stock by investors who view our Equity Units, initially consisting of Corporate Units, or related mandatory convertible preferred stock as a more attractive means of equity participation in us than owning shares of our common stock; and
•hedging or arbitrage trading activity that may develop involving our Equity Units, initially consisting of Corporate Units, or related mandatory convertible preferred stock and our common stock.
In addition, we cannot effectively manage new initiatives and organizational changes, we will be unable to addresspredict the opportunities and challenges presented byeffect that future issuances or sales of our strategycommon stock, if any, including those made upon the settlement of the purchase contracts or conversion of the mandatory convertible preferred stock, may have on the market price for our common stock.
Our Equity Units, initially consisting of Corporate Units, and the businessissuance and regulatory environment.
In order to execute on our sustainable growth strategysale of substantial amounts of common stock, including issuances and enhance our culturesales upon the settlement of ongoing continuous improvement, we must effectively manage the complexity and frequencypurchase contracts or conversion of new initiatives and organizational changes. If we are unable to make decisions quickly, assess our opportunities and risks, and implement new governance, managerial and organizational processes as needed to execute our strategy in this increasingly dynamic and competitive business and regulatory environment, our financial condition, results of operations and relationships with our business partners, regulators, customers and stockholders may be negatively impacted.
We outsource certain business functions to third-party suppliers and service providers, and substandard performance by those third parties could harm our business, reputation and results of operations.
Utilities rely on extensive networks of business partners and suppliers to support critical enterprise capabilities across their organizations. Global metrics indicate that deliveries from suppliers are slowing and that labor shortages are occurring in the energy sector. We outsource certain services to third parties in areas including construction services, information technology, materials, fleet, environmental, operational services and other areas. Outsourcing of services to third parties could expose us to inferior service quality or substandard deliverables, which may result in non-compliance (including with applicable legal requirements and industry standards), interruption of service or accidents, or reputational harm, which could negatively impact our results of operations. If any difficulties in the operations of these third-party suppliers and service providers, including their systems, were to occur, theymandatory convertible preferred stock, could adversely affect our results of operations, or adversely affect our ability to work with regulators, unions, customers or employees.
Changes in the method for determining LIBOR and the potential replacement of the LIBOR benchmark interest rate could adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Somemarket price of our indebtedness, including borrowings undercommon stock and will cause dilution to our revolving credit agreementstockholders.
Capital market performance and term loan agreement, bears interest at a variable rate based on LIBOR. From time to time, we also enter into hedging instruments to manage our exposure to fluctuations inother factors may decrease the LIBOR benchmark interest rate. In addition, these hedging instruments, as well as hedging instruments that our subsidiaries
value of benefit plan assets, which then could require significant additional funding and impact earnings.
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The performance of the capital markets affects the value of the assets that are held in trust to satisfy future obligations under defined benefit pension and other postretirement benefit plans. We have significant obligations in these areas and hold significant assets in these trusts. These assets are subject to market fluctuations and may yield uncertain returns, which fall below our projected rates of return. A decline in the market value of assets may increase the funding requirements of the obligations under the defined benefit pension plans. Additionally, changes in interest rates affect the liabilities under these benefit plans; as interest rates decrease, the liabilities increase, which could potentially increase funding requirements. Further, the funding requirements of the obligations related to these benefits plans may increase due to changes in governmental regulations and participant demographics, including increased numbers of retirements or longer life expectancy assumptions, as well as voluntary early retirements. In addition, lower asset returns result in increased expenses. Ultimately, significant funding requirements and increased pension or other postretirement benefit plan expense could negatively impact our results of operations and financial position.
useWe have significant goodwill. Any future impairments of goodwill could result in a significant charge to earnings in a future period and negatively impact our compliance with certain covenants under financing agreements.
In accordance with GAAP, we test goodwill for hedgingimpairment at least annually and review our definite-lived intangible assets for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate its fair value might be below its carrying value. Goodwill is also tested for impairment when factors, examples of which include reduced cash flow estimates, a sustained decline in stock price or market capitalization below book value, indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable.
A significant charge in the future could impact the capitalization ratio covenant under certain financing agreements. We are subject to a financial covenant under our revolving credit facility and term credit agreement, which requires us to maintain a debt to capitalization ratio that does not exceed 70%. As of December 31, 2022, the ratio was 58.9%.
LITIGATION, REGULATORY AND LEGISLATIVE RISKS
The outcome of legal and regulatory proceedings, investigations, inquiries, claims and litigation related to our business operations may have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial position or liquidity.
We are involved in legal and regulatory proceedings, investigations, inquiries, claims and litigation in connection with our business operations, including those related to the Greater Lawrence Incident, the most significant of which are summarized in Note 19, "Other Commitments and Contingencies," in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. Our insurance does not cover all costs and expenses that we have incurred relating to the Greater Lawrence Incident, and does not fully cover incidents that could occur in the future. Due to the inherent uncertainty of the outcomes of such matters, there can be no assurance that the resolution of any particular claim or proceeding would not have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial position or liquidity.
The Greater Lawrence Incident has materially adversely affected and may continue to materially adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows and we may have continued financial liabilities related to the sale of the Massachusetts Business.
In connection with the Greater Lawrence Incident, we have incurred and will incur various costs and expenses. While we have recovered the full amount of our liability insurance coverage available under our policies, total expenses related to the incident exceeded such amount. Expenses in excess of our liability insurance coverage have materially adversely affected and may continue to materially adversely affect our results of operations, cash flows and financial position. We may also incur additional costs associated with the Greater Lawrence Incident, beyond the amount currently anticipated, including in connection with civil litigation. Additionally, it may be difficult to determine whether a claim for damages from a third party related to the Massachusetts Business or the Greater Lawrence Incident is our responsibility or Eversource’s, and we may expend substantial resources trying to determine whether we or Eversource has responsibility for the claim. Further, state or federal legislation may be enacted that would require us to incur additional costs by mandating various changes, including changes to our operating practice standards for natural gas pricedistribution operations and basis risk, relysafety. In addition, if it is determined in other matters that we did not comply with applicable statutes, regulations or rules in connection with the operations or maintenance of our natural gas system, and we are ordered to pay additional amounts in penalties, or other amounts, our financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows could be materially and adversely affected.
Our settlement with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in respect of federal charges in connection with the Greater Lawrence Incident may expose us to further penalties, liabilities and private litigation, and may impact our operations.
On February 26, 2020, the Company entered into a DPA and Columbia of Massachusetts entered into a plea agreement with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to resolve the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s investigation relating to the Greater Lawrence Incident, which
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
NISOURCE INC.
was subsequently approved by the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts. The agreements impose various compliance and remedial obligations on LIBOR-based ratesthe Company and Columbia of Massachusetts. Failure to calculate interest accruedcomply with the terms of these agreements could result in further enforcement action by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, expose the Company and Columbia of Massachusetts to penalties, financial or otherwise, and subject the Company to further private litigation, each of which could impact our operations and have a material adverse effect on certain paymentsour business.
Our businesses are subject to various federal, state and local laws, regulations, tariffs and policies. We could be materially adversely affected if we fail to comply with such laws, regulations, tariffs and policies or with any changes in or new interpretations of such laws, regulations, tariffs and policies.
Our businesses are subject to various federal, state and local laws, regulations, tariffs and policies, including, but not limited to, those relating to natural gas pipeline safety, employee safety, the environment and our energy infrastructure. In particular, we are subject to significant federal, state and local regulations applicable to utility companies, including regulations by the various utility commissions in the states where we serve customers. These regulations significantly influence our operating environment, may affect our ability to recover costs from utility customers, and cause us to incur substantial compliance and other costs. Existing laws, regulations, tariffs and policies may be revised or become subject to new interpretations, and new laws, regulations, tariffs and policies may be adopted or become applicable to us and our operations. In some cases, compliance with new laws, regulations, tariffs and policies increases our costs or risks of liability. Supply chain constraints may challenge our ability to remain in compliance if we cannot obtain the materials that we need to operate our business in a compliant manner. If we fail to comply with laws, regulations and tariffs applicable to us or with any changes in or new interpretations of such laws, regulations, tariffs or policies, our financial condition, results of operations, regulatory outcomes and cash flows may be materially adversely affected.
Our businesses are regulated under numerous environmental laws and regulations. The cost of compliance with these laws and regulations, and changes to or additions to, or reinterpretations of the laws and regulations, could be significant, and the cost of compliance may not be recoverable. Liability from the failure to comply with existing or changed laws and regulations could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.
Our businesses are subject to extensive federal, state and local environmental laws and rules that regulate, among other things, air emissions, water usage and discharges, GHG and waste products such as CCR. Compliance with these legal obligations require us to make significant expenditures for installation of pollution control equipment, remediation, environmental monitoring, emissions fees, and permits at many of our facilities. Furthermore, if we fail to comply with environmental laws and regulations or are found to have caused damage to the environment or persons, that failure or harm may result in the assessment of civil or criminal penalties and damages against us, injunctions to remedy the failure or harm, and the inability to operate facilities as designed and intended.
Existing environmental laws and regulations may be revised and new laws and regulations may be adopted or become applicable to us, with an increasing focus on the impact of coal and natural gas facilities that may result in significant additional expense and operating restrictions on our facilities, which may not be requiredfully recoverable from customers and could materially affect the continued economic viability of our facilities.
An area of significant uncertainty and risk are potential changes to the laws concerning emission of GHG. While we continue to execute our plan to reduce our Scope 1 GHG emissions through the retirement of coal-fired electric generation, increased sourcing of renewable energy, priority pipeline replacement, leak detection and repair, and other methods, and while we have set a Net Zero Goal, GHG emissions are anticipated to be made under these agreements,associated with energy delivery for many years. Future GHG legislation and/or regulation related to the generation of electricity or the extraction, production, distribution, transmission, storage and end use of natural gas could materially impact our gas supply, financial position, financial results and cash flows.
Another area of significant uncertainty and risk are the regulations concerning CCR. The EPA has issued regulations and plans to promulgate additional regulations concerning the management, transformation, transportation and storage of CCRs. NIPSCO is also incurring or will incur costs associated with closing, corrective action, and ongoing monitoring of certain CCR impoundments. We have two pending petitions at the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) seeking recovery of ash pond closure costs related to federal regulations governing CCRs at the Michigan City and R.M. Schahfer Generating Stations and believe there is supportive Indiana law authorizing such recovery. Further, a release of CCR to the environment could result in remediation costs, penalties, claims, litigation, increased compliance costs, and reputational damage.
We currently have a pending application with the EPA to continue operation of a CCR impoundment that is tied to operation of R.M. Schahfer Generating Station Units 17 and 18 to the end of 2025, with the CCR impoundment closing by October 2028. In
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
NISOURCE INC.
proposed and final EPA actions denying continued operation of CCR impoundments at other utilities, EPA said that CCR impoundments should cease receipt of CCRs within 135 days of final EPA action unless certain conditions are demonstrated, such as late payments or interest accrued if any cash collateral shouldpotential reliability issues. In the event that approval is not obtained, future operations could be held by a counterparty. Any changes announced by regulators inimpacted.
The actual future expenditures to achieve environmental compliance depends on many factors, including the nature and extent of impact, the method pursuantof improvement, the cost of raw materials, contractor costs, and requirements established by environmental authorities. Changes in costs and the ability to recover under regulatory mechanisms could affect our financial position, financial results and cash flows.
Changes in taxation and the ability to quantify such changes as well as challenges to tax positions could adversely affect our financial results.
We are subject to taxation by the various taxing authorities at the federal, state and local levels where we do business. Legislation or regulation which could affect our tax burden could be enacted by any of these governmental authorities. The IRA imposed a 15 percent minimum tax rate on book earnings for corporations with higher than $1 billion of annual income, along with a 1 percent excise tax on corporate stock repurchases while providing tax incentives to promote various clean energy initiatives. We are currently assessing the potential impact of these legislative changes. The outcome of regulatory proceedings regarding the extent to which the LIBOR rates are determined may result in a sudden or prolonged increase or decrease in the reported LIBOR rates. If that were to occur, the level of interest payments we incur may change.
In July 2017, the United Kingdom Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”), which regulates LIBOR, announced that the FCA intends to stop compelling banks to submit rates for the calculation of LIBOR after 2021. It is not possible to predict the effect of these changes, other reforms or the establishment of alternative reference ratesa change in the United Kingdom or elsewhere. In the United States, efforts to identify a set of alternative U.S. dollar reference interest rates include proposals by the Alternative Reference Rates Committee of the Federal Reserve Boardcorporate tax rate will impact customers and the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. The Alternative Reference Rates Committee has proposedtime period over which the Secured Overnight Financing Rate ("SOFR")impact will occur could significantly impact future earnings and cash flows. Separately, a challenge by a taxing authority, changes in taxing authorities’ administrative interpretations, decisions, policies and positions, our ability to utilize tax benefits such as its recommended alternativecarryforwards or tax credits, or a deviation from other tax-related assumptions may cause actual financial results to LIBOR, and the Federal Reserve Bank of New York began publishing SOFR rates in April 2018. SOFR is intended to be a broad measure of the cost of borrowing cash overnight that is collateralized by U.S. Treasury securities. However, because SOFR is a broad U.S. Treasury repurchase agreement financing rate that represents overnight secured funding transactions, it differs fundamentallydeviate from LIBOR. For example, SOFR is a secured overnight rate, while LIBOR is an unsecured rate that represents interbank funding over different maturities. In addition, because SOFR is a transaction-based rate, it is backward-looking, whereas LIBOR is forward-looking. Because of these and other differences, there is no assurance that SOFR will perform in the same way as LIBOR would have performed at any time, and there is no guarantee that it is a comparable substitute for LIBOR. SOFR may fail to gain market acceptance.
In addition, although certain of our LIBOR based obligations provide for alternative methods of calculating the interest rate payable on certain of our obligations if LIBOR is not reported, which include, without limitation, requesting certain rates from major reference banks in London or New York, uncertainty as to the extent and manner of future changes may result in interest rates and/or payments that are higher than, lower than or that do not otherwise correlate over time with, the interest rates or payments that would have been made on our obligations if a LIBOR-based rate was available in its current form.
previous estimates.
ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
NISOURCE INC.
None.
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
Discussed below are the principal properties held by us and our subsidiaries as of December 31, 2019.2022.
Gas Distribution Operations
Refer to Item 1, "Business - Gas Distribution Operations"Operations," of this report for further information on Gas Distribution Operations properties.
Electric Operations
Refer to Item 1, "Business - Electric Operations"Operations," of this report for further information on Electric Operations properties.
Corporate and Other Operations
We own the Southlake Complex, our 325,000 square foot headquarters building located in Merrillville, Indiana.
Character of Ownership
Our principal properties and our subsidiariessubsidiaries' principal properties are owned free from encumbrances, subject to minor exceptions, none of which are of such a nature as to impair substantially the usefulness of such properties. Many of our subsidiary offices in various communities served are occupied under leases. All properties are subject to routine liens for taxes, assessments and undetermined charges (if any) incidental to construction. It is our practice to regularly pay such amounts, as and when due, unless contested in good faith. In general, the electric lines, gas pipelines and related facilities are located on land not owned by us or our subsidiaries, but are covered by necessary consents of various governmental authorities or by appropriate rights obtained from owners of private property. We do not, however, generally have specific easements from the owners of the property adjacent to public highways over, upon or under which our electric lines and gas distribution pipelines are located. At the time each of the principal properties werewas purchased, a title search was made. In general, no examination of titles as to rights-of-way for electric lines, gas pipelines or related facilities was made, other than examination, in certain cases, to verify the grantors’ ownership and the lien status thereof.
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
For a description of our legal proceedings, see Note 19-C "Legal Proceedings"19, "Other Commitments and Contingencies - C. Legal Proceedings," in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES
Not applicable.
SUPPLEMENTAL ITEM. INFORMATION ABOUT OUR EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
N
ISOURCE INC.
The following is a list of our executive officers, including their names, ages, offices held and other recent business experience.
|
| | | | | |
Name | | Age | | Office(s) Held in Past 5 Years |
Joseph Hamrock | | 56 |
| | President and Chief Executive Officer of NiSource since July 2015.
|
| | | | Executive Vice President and Group Chief Executive Officer of NiSource from May 2012 to July 2015.
|
Donald E. Brown | | 48 |
| | Executive Vice President of NiSource since May 2015.
|
| | | | Chief Financial Officer of NiSource since July 2015.
|
| | | | Treasurer of NiSource from July 2015 to June 2016.
|
| | | | Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of UGI Utilities, a division of UGI Corporation (gas and electric utility company) from 2010 to March 2015.
|
Peter T. Disser | | 51 |
| | Vice President, Internal Audit of NiSource since January 2019.
|
| | | | Chief Operating Officer of NiSource from September 2018 to December 2018.
|
| | | | Vice President, Audit of NiSource from November 2017 to September 2018.
|
| | | | Vice President, Planning and Analysis of NiSource from June 2016 to November 2017.
|
| | | | Vice President, Strategy and Planning of NiSource Corporate Services Company from July 2015 to May 2016.
|
| | | | Chief Financial Officer of NIPSCO from 2012 to June 2015.
|
Carrie J. Hightman | | 62 |
| | Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer of NiSource since 2007.
|
Kenneth E. Keener | | 55 |
| | Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer of NiSource since August 2019.
|
| | | | Vice President, Talent and Organizational Effectiveness of NiSource Corporate Services Company from June 2012 to July 2019.
|
Charles E. Shafer, II | | 50 |
| | Senior Vice President and Chief Safety Officer of NiSource since October 2019.
|
| | | | Senior Vice President, Gas Engineering and Gas Support Services of NiSource Corporate Services Company from January 2019 to September 2019.
|
| | | | Senior Vice President, Customer Services and New Business of NiSource Corporate Services Company from May 2016 through December 2018.
|
| | | | Vice President, Engineering and Construction of NiSource Corporate Services Company from June 2012 to May 2016.
|
Violet G. Sistovaris | | 58 |
| | Executive Vice President and President, NIPSCO of NiSource since July 2015.
|
| | | | Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer of NiSource from May 2014 to June 2015.
|
Suzanne K. Surface | | 55 |
| | Chief Services Officer of NiSource since January 2019.
|
| | | | Vice President, Audit of NiSource from September 2018 to December 2018.
|
| | | | Vice President, Transformation Office of NiSource from August 2018 to September 2018.
|
| | | | Vice President, Corporate Services Customer Value of NiSource from November 2017 to August 2018.
|
| | | | Vice President, Audit of NiSource from July 2015 to November 2017.
|
| | | | Vice President, Regulatory Strategy and Support of NiSource Corporate Services Company from July 2009 to June 2015.
|
Pablo A. Vegas | | 46 |
| | Executive Vice President and President, Gas Utilities of NiSource since January 2019.
|
| | | | Executive Vice President and Chief Restoration Officer of NiSource from September 2018 to December 2018.
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| | | | Executive Vice President, Gas Business Segment and Chief Customer Officer of NiSource from May 2017 to September 2018.
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| | | | Executive Vice President and President, Columbia Gas Group from May 2016 to May 2017.
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| | | | President and Chief Operating Officer of American Electric Power Company of Ohio from May 2012 to May 2016.
|
PART II
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
NISOURCE INC.
NiSource’s common stock is listed and traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “NI.”"NI."
Holders of shares of NiSource’s common stock are entitled to receive dividends if and when declared by NiSource’sthe Board out of funds legally available, subject to the prior dividend rights of holders of our preferred stock or the depositary shares representing such preferred stock outstanding, and if full dividends have not been declared and paid on all outstanding shares of preferred stock in any dividend period, no dividend may be declared or paid or set aside for payment on our common stock. The policy of the Board has been to declare cash dividends on a quarterly basis payable on or about the 20th day of February, May, August, and November. At its January 31, 202026, 2023 meeting, the Board declared a quarterly common dividend of $0.21$0.250 per share, payable on February 20, 202017, 2023 to holders of record on February 11, 2020.7, 2023.
Although the Board currently intends to continue the payment of regular quarterly cash dividends on common shares, the timing and amount of future dividends will depend on the earnings of NiSource’s subsidiaries, their financial condition, cash requirements, regulatory restrictions, any restrictions in financing agreements and other factors deemed relevant by the Board. There can be no assurance that NiSource will continue to pay such dividends or the amount of such dividends.
As of February 18, 2020,15, 2023, NiSource had 18,86816,572 common stockholders of record and 382,263,348412,507,944 shares outstanding.
The graph below compares the cumulative total shareholder return of NiSource’s common stock for the last five yearsperiod commencing December 31, 2017 and ending December 31, 2022 with the cumulative total return for the same period of the S&P 500 and the Dow Jones Utility indices. On July 1, 2015, NiSource completed the Separation. Following the Separation, NiSource retained no ownership interest in CPG. The Separation is treated as a special dividend for purposes of calculating the total shareholder return, with the then-current market value of the distributed shares being deemed to have been reinvested on the Separation date in shares of NiSource common stock. A vertical line is included on the graph below to identify the periods before and after the Separation.
PART II
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
NISOURCE INC.
The foregoing performance graph is being furnished as part of this annual report solely in accordance with the requirement under Rule 14a-3(b)(9) to furnish stockholders with such information, and therefore, shall not be deemed to be filed or incorporated by reference into any filings by NiSource under the Securities Act or the Exchange Act.
The total shareholder return for NiSource common stock and the two indices is calculated from an assumed initial investment of $100 and assumes dividend reinvestment, includingreinvestment.
Purchases of Equity Securities by Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers. For the impactthree months ended December 31, 2022, no equity securities that are registered by NiSource Inc. pursuant to Section 12 of the distributionSecurities Exchange Act of CPG common stock in the Separation.
1934 were purchased by or on behalf of us or any of our affiliated purchasers.
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATARESERVED
NISOURCE INC.
The selected data presented below as of and for the five years ended December 31, 2019, are derived from our Consolidated Financial Statements. The data should be read together with the Consolidated Financial Statements including the related notes thereto included in Item 8 of this Form 10-K. Not applicable.
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| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Year Ended December 31, (in millions except per share data) | 2019 | | 2018 | | 2017 | | 2016 | | 2015 |
Statement of Income Data: | | | | | | | | | |
Total Operating Revenues | $ | 5,208.9 |
| | $ | 5,114.5 |
| | $ | 4,874.6 |
| | $ | 4,492.5 |
| | $ | 4,651.8 |
|
Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Shareholders | 328.0 |
| | (65.6 | ) | | 128.5 |
| | 331.5 |
| | 198.6 |
|
Balance Sheet Data: | | | | | | | | | |
Total Assets | 22,659.8 |
| | 21,804.0 |
| | 19,961.7 |
| | 18,691.9 |
| | 17,492.5 |
|
Capitalization | | | | | | | | | |
Stockholders’ equity | 5,986.7 |
| | 5,750.9 |
| | 4,320.1 |
| | 4,071.2 |
| | 3,843.5 |
|
Long-term debt, excluding amounts due within one year | 7,856.2 |
| | 7,105.4 |
| | 7,512.2 |
| | 6,058.2 |
| | 5,948.5 |
|
Total Capitalization | $ | 13,842.9 |
| | $ | 12,856.3 |
| | $ | 11,832.3 |
| | $ | 10,129.4 |
| | $ | 9,792.0 |
|
Per Share Data: | | | | | | | | | |
Basic Earnings (Loss) Per Share ($) | $ | 0.88 |
| | $ | (0.18 | ) | | $ | 0.39 |
| | $ | 1.02 |
| | $ | 0.63 |
|
Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Share ($) | $ | 0.87 |
| | $ | (0.18 | ) | | $ | 0.39 |
| | $ | 1.01 |
| | $ | 0.63 |
|
Other Data: | | | | | | | | | |
Dividends declared per common share ($) | $ | 0.80 |
| | $ | 0.78 |
| | $ | 0.70 |
| | $ | 0.64 |
| | $ | 0.83 |
|
Common shares outstanding at the end of the year (in thousands) | 382,136 |
| | 372,363 |
| | 337,016 |
| | 323,160 |
| | 319,110 |
|
Number of common stockholders | 18,725 |
| | 19,889 |
| | 21,009 |
| | 22,272 |
| | 30,190 |
|
Dividends declared per Series A preferred share ($) | $ | 56.50 |
| | $ | 28.88 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
|
Dividends declared per Series B preferred share ($) | $ | 1,674.65 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
|
Capital expenditures | $ | 1,867.8 |
| | $ | 1,814.6 |
| | $ | 1,753.8 |
| | $ | 1,490.4 |
| | $ | 1,367.5 |
|
Number of employees | 8,363 |
| | 8,087 |
| | 8,175 |
| | 8,007 |
| | 7,596 |
|
During 2019, we recorded a loss of approximately $284 million for third-party claims and approximately $154 million for other incident-related expenses in connection with the Greater Lawrence Incident. Columbia of Massachusetts recorded $665 million for insurance recoveries through December 31, 2019. For additional information, see Note 19-C, "Legal Proceedings," and E, "Other Matters" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
During the fourth quarter of 2019, we recorded an impairment charge of $204.8 million for goodwill and an impairment charge of $209.7 million for franchise rights, in each case related to Columbia of Massachusetts. For additional information, see Note 6, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets,” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
During the third quarter of 2019, we closed our placement of $750.0 million of 2.95% senior unsecured notes maturing in 2029.
During the second quarter of 2018, we completed the sale of 24,964,163 shares of $0.01 par value common stock at a price of $24.28 per share in a private placement to selected institutional and accredited investors and issued 400,000 shares of Series A preferred stock resulting in $400.0 million of gross proceeds or $393.9 million of net proceeds, after deducting commissions and sales expenses. Additionally, in the fourth quarter of 2018, we issued 20,000 shares of Series B preferred stock resulting in $500.0 million of gross proceeds or $486.1 million of net proceeds, after deducting commissions and sales expenses.
During 2018, we recorded a loss of approximately $757 million for third-party claims and approximately $266 million for other incident-related expenses in connection with the Greater Lawrence Incident. Columbia of Massachusetts recorded $135 million for insurance recoveries through December 31, 2018. For additional information, see Note 19-C, "Legal Proceedings," and E, Other Matters." in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
During the second quarter of 2018, we executed a tender offer for $209.0 million of outstanding notes consisting of a combination of our 6.80% notes due 2019, 5.45% notes due 2020 and 6.125% notes due 2022. During the third quarter of 2018, we redeemed $551.1 million of outstanding notes representing the remainder of our 6.80% notes due 2019, 5.45% notes due 2020 and 6.125% notes due 2022. In conjunction with our debt retired, we recorded a $45.5 million loss on early extinguishment of long-term debt primarily attributable to early redemption premiums.
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
N
ISOURCE INC.
The decrease in net income during 2017 was due primarily to increased tax expense as a result of the impact of adopting the provisions of the TCJA and a loss on early extinguishment of long-term debt, as discussed below.
During the second quarter of 2017, we executed a tender offer for $990.7 million of outstanding notes consisting of a combination of our 6.40% notes due 2018, 6.80% notes due 2019, 5.45% notes due 2020, and 6.125% notes due 2022. In conjunction with the debt retired, we recorded a $111.5 million loss on early extinguishment of long-term debt, primarily attributable to early redemption premiums.
Prior to the Separation, CPG closed the placement of $2,750.0 million in aggregate principal amount of senior notes. Using the proceeds from this offering, CPG made cash payments to us representing the settlement of inter-company borrowings and the payment of a one-time special dividend. In May 2015, using proceeds from the cash payments from CPG, we settled two bank term loans in the amount of $1,075.0 million and executed a tender offer for $750.0 million consisting of a combination of its 5.25% notes due 2017, 6.40% notes due 2018 and 4.45% notes due 2021. In conjunction with the debt retired, we recorded a $97.2 million loss on early extinguishment of long-term debt, primarily attributable to early redemption premiums.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
NISOURCE INC.
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This Management’sManagement's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (Management’s Discussion) analyzes our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows and those of our subsidiaries. It also("Management's Discussion") includes management’s analysis of past financial results and certain potential factors that may affect future results, potential future risks and approaches that may be used to manage those risks. See "Note regarding forward-looking statements" and Item 1A, "Risk Factors" at the beginning of this report for a list of factors that may cause results to differ materially.
Management’sThis Management's Discussion is designed to provide an understanding of our operations and financial performance and should be read in conjunction with our Consolidated Financial Statements and related Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in this annual report.
We are an energy holding company under the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 2005 whose subsidiaries are fully regulated natural gas and electric utility companies serving customers in sevensix states. We generate substantially all of our operating income through these rate-regulated businesses, which are summarized for financial reporting purposes into two primary reportable segments: Gas Distribution Operations and Electric Operations.
Refer to the “Business”"Business" section under Item 1 of this annual report and Note 23, "Segments of Business,21, "Business Segment Information," in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion of our regulated utility business segments.
Our goal is to develop strategies that benefit all stakeholders as we address changing customer conservation patterns, develops more contemporary pricing structures and embarks(i) embark on long-term infrastructure investment and safety programs.programs to better serve our customers, (ii) align our tariff structures with our cost structure, and (iii) address changing customer conservation patterns. These strategies are intended to improvefocus on improving safety and reliability, enhancing customer service, ensuring customer affordability and safety, enhance customer services and reducereducing emissions while generating sustainable returns. The safety of our customers, communities and employees remains our top priority. In 2022, NiSource achieved conformance certification to the American Petroleum Institute Recommended Practice 1173, which serves as the guiding practice for our SMS. This certification marks an important milestone for our SMS and NiSource’s journey towards operational excellence. Additionally, we continue to pursue regulatory and legislative initiatives that will allow residential customers not currently on our system to obtain gas service in a cost effective manner. Refer
2022 Overview: In 2022, we continued to make significant progress towards our strategic and financial goals and objectives. We completed the first full year of operating Indiana Crossroads Wind, and construction is near completion for two of our solar projects. In 2022, we filed four rate cases and resolved three, in Pennsylvania, Maryland, and the gas rate case in Indiana filed in 2021. In addition, the Ohio rate case was resolved in January 2023 and the Virginia rate case is anticipated to be resolved in the first quarter of 2023. These cases represent balanced outcomes supporting all stakeholders. Between our Gas Distribution and Electric Operating Segments, we added 25,000 customers. We also invested $1.6 billion in infrastructure modernization to enhance safe, reliable service, including replacement of 410 miles of distribution main and service lines, 48 miles of underground cable and 1,352 electric poles.
We also made advancements in key strategic initiatives, described in further detail below.
Your Energy, Your Future: Our plan to replace our coal generation capacity by the end of 2028 with primarily renewable resources, initiated through our 2018 Integrated Resource Plan ("2018 Plan") is well underway, and we are continually adjusting to the discussiondynamic renewable energy landscape. As of Electric Supply within our Electric Operations Segment discussionDecember 31, 2022, we have executed and received IURC approval for additional informationBTAs and PPAs with a combined nameplate capacity of 1,950 MW and 1,380 MW, respectively, under the 2018 Plan. During 2022, we made significant progress on our long term electric generation strategy.
Greater Lawrence Incident: The Greater Lawrence Incident occurredfirst two solar BTAs and anticipate completion of these projects and tax equity financing in 2023. We have also taken contractual actions on September 13, 2018. The following table summarizes expenses incurred and insurance recoveries recorded sincea number of our other renewable projects to address the Greater Lawrence Incident. The amounts set forth in the table below do not include the capital cost of the pipeline replacement described below and as set forth in Note 19, "Other Commitments and Contingencies - E. Other Matters - Greater Lawrence Pipeline Replacement," in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
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| | | | | | | | | | |
| Year Ended | | Year Ended | |
(in millions) | December 31, 2018 | | December 31, 2019 | Incident to Date |
Third-party claims and government fines, penalties and settlements | $ | 757 |
| | $ | 284 |
| $ | 1,041 |
|
Other incident-related costs | 266 |
| | 154 |
| 420 |
|
Total | 1,023 |
| | 438 |
| 1,461 |
|
Insurance recoveries recorded | (135 | ) | | (665 | ) | (800 | ) |
Loss (benefit) to income before income taxes | $ | 888 |
| | $ | (227 | ) | $ | 661 |
|
Inclusive of the $1,041 million of third-party claims and fines, penalties and settlements associated with government investigations recorded incident to date, we estimate that total costs related to third-party claims and fines, penalties and settlements associated
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
timing of these projects as well as consider the broad market issues facing the industry. We remain on track to retire R.M Schahfer's remaining two coal units by the end of 2025. In August 2022, the IRA was signed into law. We are evaluating the impact of this legislation to our renewable projects with government investigationspotential to drive increased value to customers as set forth in Note 19, "Other Commitmentspart of our expansion of renewable projects and Contingencies - C. Legal Proceedings," will range from $1,041 million to $1,065 million, depending ongeneration transition strategy. However, the number, nature, final outcome and value of third-party claims and the final outcome of government investigations. These costs do not include costs of certain third-party claims and fines, penalties or settlements with government investigations that we are not able to estimate. We expect to incur a total of $450 million to $460 million in other incident-related costs, inclusiveleveraging of the $420 million recorded incident to date, as set forth in Note 19, "Other Commitments and Contingencies - E. Other Matters - Greater Lawrence Incident Restoration."
The process for estimating costs associated with third-party claims and fines, penalties and settlements associated with government investigations relating to the Greater Lawrence Incident requires management to exercise significant judgment basedIRA will be considered on a number of assumptionsproject-by-project basis and subjective factors. As more information becomes known, includingevaluate several factors, both quantitative and qualitative, that results in the best position for project success as well as customer and company considerations. For additional information, regarding ongoing investigations, management’s estimates and assumptions regarding the financial impact of the Greater Lawrence Incident may change.
The aggregate amount of third-party liability insurance coverage available for losses arising from the Greater Lawrence Incident is $800 million. We have collected the entire $800 million as of December 31, 2019. Expenses related to the incident have exceeded the total amount of insurance coverage available under our policies. The following table presents activity related to our Greater Lawrence Incident insurance recovery.
|
| | | |
(in millions) | Insurance receivable(1) |
Balance, December 31, 2018 | $ | 130 |
|
Insurance recoveries recorded in first quarter of 2019 | 100 |
|
Cash collected from insurance recoveries in the first quarter of 2019 | (108 | ) |
Balance, March 31, 2019 | 122 |
|
Insurance recoveries recorded in the second quarter of 2019 | 435 |
|
Cash collected from insurance recoveries in the second quarter of 2019 | (297 | ) |
Balance, June 30, 2019 | $ | 260 |
|
Insurance recoveries recorded in third quarter of 2019 | — |
|
Cash collected from insurance recoveries in the third quarter of 2019 | (260 | ) |
Balance, September 30, 2019 | $ | — |
|
Insurance recoveries recorded in the fourth quarter of 2019 | 130 |
|
Cash collected from insurance recoveries in the fourth quarter of 2019 | (130 | ) |
Balance, December 31, 2019 | $ | — |
|
(1)$5 million of insurance recoveries were collected during 2018.
Since the Greater Lawrence Incident and through December 31, 2019, we have invested approximately $258 million of capital spend for the pipeline replacement; this work was completed in 2019. We maintain property insurance for gas pipelines and other applicable property. Columbia of Massachusetts has filed a proof of loss with its property insurer for the full cost of the pipeline replacement. In January 2020, we filed a lawsuit against the property insurer, seeking payment of our property claim. We are currently unable to predict the timing or amount of any insurance recovery under the property policy. The recovery of any capital investment not reimbursed through insurance will be addressed in a future regulatory proceeding; a future regulatory proceeding is dependent on the outcome of the sale of the Massachusetts Business. The outcome of such a proceeding (if any) is uncertain. In accordance with ASC 980-360, if it becomes probable that a portion of the pipeline replacement cost will not be recoverable through customer rates and an amount can be reasonably estimated, we will reduce our regulated plant balance for the amount of the probable disallowance and record an associated charge to earnings. This could result in a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Additionally, if a rate order is received allowing recovery of the investment with no or reduced return on investment, a loss on disallowance may be required.
Refer to Note 19, "Other Commitments and Contingencies - C. Legal Proceedings" and " - E. Other Matters," in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, "Summary of Consolidated Financial Results,"see "Results and Discussion of Segment OperationOperations - Gas DistributionElectric Operations," and "Liquidity and Capital Resources" in this Management's DiscussionDiscussion.
In 2021, we announced and filed with the IURC the Preferred Energy Resource Plan associated with our 2021 Integrated Resource Plan ("2021 Plan"). The 2021 Plan lays out a timeline to retire the Michigan City Generating Station by the end of 2028. The 2021 Plan calls for additional informationthe replacement of the retiring units with a diverse portfolio of resources including demand side management resources, incremental solar, stand-alone energy storage and upgrades to existing facilities at the Sugar Creek Generating Station, among other steps. Additionally, the 2021 Plan calls for a natural gas peaking unit to replace existing vintage gas peaking units at the R.M. Schahfer Generating Station to support system reliability and resiliency, as well as upgrades to the transmission system to enhance our electric generation transition. The planned retirement of the two vintage gas peaking units at the R.M. Schahfer Generating Station is also expected to occur by the end of 2028. Final retirement dates for these units, as well as Michigan City, will be subject to MISO approval. We are continuing to evaluate potential projects under the 2021 Plan given the responses to our Request for Proposal issued in August 2022.
Transformation: The NiNext initiative, which commenced in 2020, focused on optimizing our workforce and advancing our operations. NiNext has been foundational in preparing for incremental, enterprise-wide investments to address inefficiencies in our current technology footprint, which stem primarily from a complex array of legacy systems. We plan to address these inefficiencies through our Enterprise Transformation Roadmap with investments in technology systems and infrastructure. As a result of these investments, we will deliver more modern, dependable, and secure IT systems backed with standardized processes to reduce the operating risks of our business, increase workforce efficiencies, and increase visibility to data which will be leveraged to drive risk-informed decisions. Our Enterprise Transformation Roadmap will position us to accomplish future strategic investments and aspirational goals.
Economic Environment: We are monitoring risks related to increasing order and delivery lead times for construction and other materials, increasing risk of unavailability of materials due to global shortages in raw materials, and risk of decreased construction labor productivity in the Greater Lawrence Incident.event of disruptions in the availability of materials. We are also seeing increasing prices associated with certain materials and supplies. To the extent that delays occur or our costs increase, our business operations, results of operations, cash flows, and financial condition could be materially adversely affected. For more information on supply chain impacts to our electric generation strategy, see "Results and Discussion of Segment Operations - Electric Operations," in this Management's Discussion.
Early in 2022, NIPSCO experienced a rail service shortage in deliveries of coal, particularly to its Michigan City Generating Station, and the primary rail carrier for that generating station was unable to provide assurance of adequate future service to maintain coal inventory. A lack of adequate coal deliveries to any of our coal-fired generating facilities for an extended period could deplete our inventories to a level that prevents the generating station from running, and NIPSCO would need to rely on market purchases of replacement power, which could increase the cost of electricity for NIPSCO's customers. NIPSCO believes these shortages have been resolved but continues to monitor deliveries of coal from its rail carriers. This did not have a material impact on our operations in 2022.
We are faced with increased competition for employee and contractor talent in the current labor market, which has resulted in increased costs to attract and retain talent. We are ensuring that we use all internal human capital programs (development, leadership enablement programs, succession, performance management) to promote retention of our current employees along with having a competitive and attractive appeal for potential recruits. With a focus on workforce planning, we are anticipating to evaluate our talent footprint for the future by creating flexible work arrangements where we can, to ensure we have the right people, in the right role, and at the right time. To the extent we are unable to execute on our workforce planning initiatives and experience increased employee and contractor costs, our business operations, results of operations, cash flows, and financial condition could be materially adversely affected.
We experienced an increase in natural gas costs as the spot market for natural gas substantially increased throughout much of 2022, followed by a decrease in the price of natural gas since November 2022. Nationally, levels of gas in storage were lower in 2022 compared to 2021, liquified natural gas exports to Europe continued at a steady pace, and domestic production saw a recent decline in demand. These factors drove increased volatility in the marketplace, which influenced customer bills
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
throughout 2022. While production was increasing towards the end of 2022, weather changes have limited demand and decreased withdrawals, causing inventory balances to be higher compared to 2021. With this decline in price, we expect to see lower volatility and declining customer bills. For the year ended December 31, 2022, we did not see this volatility have a material impact on our results of operations. For more information on our commodity price impacts, see "Results and Discussion of Segment Operations - Gas Distribution Operations," and "Market Risk Disclosures."
Additionally, as discussedDue to rising interest rates, we experienced higher interest expense in Note 6, "Goodwill2022 compared to 2021 associated with short-term borrowings. We continue to evaluate our financing plan to manage interest expense and Other Intangible Assets," in the Notesexposure to Consolidated Financial Statements, we assessed the totalityrates. For more information on interest rate risk, see "Market Risk Disclosures".
For more information on global availability of several factors that developed during the fourth quarter related to the Greater Lawrence Incident and concluded that it was more likely than not that the fair value of the Columbia of Massachusetts reporting unit was below its carrying value. As a result, a new impairment analysis was requiredmaterials for our Columbiarenewable projects, see "Results and Discussion of Massachusetts reporting unit. The year-end impairment analysis indicated that the fair value of the Columbia of Massachusetts reporting unit was below its carrying value. As a result, we reduced the Columbia of Massachusetts reporting unit goodwill balance to zeroSegment Operations - Electric Operations - Electric Supply and recognized a goodwill impairment charge totaling $204.8 million, which is non-deductible for tax purposes. We assessed the same fourth quarter circumstances in reviewing the Columbia of Massachusetts franchise rights intangible assets. These factors led us to conclude that it was more likely than not that the fair value of the franchise rights was below its carrying amount. As a result, we performed a year-end impairment test and determined that the fair value of the franchise rights was zero. Therefore, we wrote off the entire franchise rights book value, which resulted in an impairment charge totaling $209.7 million.Generation Transition."
Columbia of Massachusetts Asset Sale:On February 26, 2020, NiSource and Columbia of Massachusetts entered into the Asset Purchase Agreement with Eversource. Upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Asset Purchase Agreement, NiSource and Columbia of Massachusetts agreed to sell to Eversource the Massachusetts Business for a purchase price of $1,100 million, subject to adjustment. For additional information, see Note 26, “Subsequent Event,” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Summary of Consolidated Financial Results
Our operations are affected by the costA summary of sales. Cost of salesour consolidated financial results for the Gas Distribution Operations segment is principally comprised of the cost of natural gas used while providing transportationyears ended December 31, 2022, 2021 and distribution services to customers. Cost of sales for the Electric Operations segment is comprised of the cost of coal, related handling costs, natural gas purchased for the internal generation of electricity at NIPSCO and the cost of power purchased from third-party generators of electricity.2020, are presented below:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | Favorable (Unfavorable) |
Year Ended December 31, (in millions, except per share amounts) | 2022 | | 2021 | | 2020 | | 2022 vs. 2021 | | 2021 vs. 2020 |
Operating Revenues | $ | 5,850.6 | | | $ | 4,899.6 | | | $ | 4,681.7 | | | $ | 951.0 | | | $ | 217.9 | |
Operating Expenses | | | | | | | | | |
Cost of energy | 2,110.5 | | | 1,392.3 | | | 1,109.3 | | | (718.2) | | | (283.0) | |
Other Operating Expenses | 2,474.3 | | | 2,500.4 | | | 3,021.6 | | | 26.1 | | | 521.2 | |
Total Operating Expenses | 4,584.8 | | | 3,892.7 | | | 4,130.9 | | | (692.1) | | | 238.2 | |
Operating Income | 1,265.8 | | | 1,006.9 | | | 550.8 | | | 258.9 | | | 456.1 | |
Total Other Deductions, Net | (309.4) | | | (300.3) | | | (582.1) | | | (9.1) | | | 281.8 | |
Income Taxes | 164.6 | | | 117.8 | | | (17.1) | | | (46.8) | | | (134.9) | |
Net Income (Loss) | 791.8 | | | 588.8 | | | (14.2) | | | 203.0 | | | 603.0 | |
Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest | (12.3) | | | 3.9 | | | 3.4 | | | 16.2 | | | (0.5) | |
Net Income (Loss) attributable to NiSource | 804.1 | | | 584.9 | | | (17.6) | | | 219.2 | | | 602.5 | |
Preferred dividends | (55.1) | | | (55.1) | | | (55.1) | | | — | | | — | |
Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Shareholders | 749.0 | | | 529.8 | | | (72.7) | | | 219.2 | | | 602.5 | |
Basic Earnings (Loss) Per Share | $ | 1.84 | | | $ | 1.35 | | | $ | (0.19) | | | $ | 0.49 | | | $ | 1.54 | |
Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Share | $ | 1.70 | | | $ | 1.27 | | | $ | (0.19) | | | $ | 0.43 | | | $ | 1.46 | |
The majority of the costcosts of salesenergy in both segments are tracked costs that are passed through directly to the customer, resulting in an equal and offsetting amount reflected in operating revenues. As a result, we believe
The increase in net income available to common shareholders during 2022 was primarily due to higher revenues a non-GAAP financial measure definedfrom outcomes of gas base rate proceedings and regulatory capital programs, as operating revenues less cost of sales (excluding depreciation and amortization), provides management and investors a useful measurewell as an insurance settlement related to analyze profitability. The presentation of net revenues herein is intendedthe Greater Lawrence Incident, offset by higher income taxes in 2022 compared to provide supplemental2021.
For additional information for investors regarding operating performance. Net revenues do not intend to representon operating income variance drivers see "Results and Discussion of Segment Operations" for Gas and Electric Operations in this Management's Discussion.
Other Deductions, Net
The change in Other deductions, net in 2022 compared to 2021 is primarily driven by higher long-term and short-term debt interest in 2022 and lower non-service pension benefits partially offset by the most comparable GAAP measure, as an indicator of operating performanceinterest rate swap settlement gain in 2022 and is not necessarily comparablecharitable contributions in 2021. See Note 15, "Long-Term Debt," Note 16, "Short-Term Borrowings," and Note 12, "Pension and Other Postemployment Benefits," in the Notes to similarly titled measures reported by other companies.
Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
For the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, operating income and a reconciliation of net revenues to the most directly comparable GAAP measure, operating income, was as follows:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Year Ended December 31, (in millions) | 2019 | | 2018 | | 2017 | | 2019 vs. 2018 | | 2018 vs. 2017 |
Operating Income | $ | 890.7 |
| | $ | 124.7 |
| | $ | 921.2 |
| | $ | 766.0 |
| | $ | (796.5 | ) |
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Year Ended December 31, (in millions, except per share amounts) | 2019 | | 2018 | | 2017 | | 2019 vs. 2018 | | 2018 vs. 2017 |
Operating Revenues | $ | 5,208.9 |
| | $ | 5,114.5 |
| | $ | 4,874.6 |
| | $ | 94.4 |
| | $ | 239.9 |
|
Cost of sales (excluding depreciation and amortization) | 1,534.8 |
| | 1,761.3 |
| | 1,518.7 |
| | (226.5 | ) | | 242.6 |
|
Total Net Revenues | 3,674.1 |
| | 3,353.2 |
| | 3,355.9 |
| | 320.9 |
| | (2.7 | ) |
Other Operating Expenses | 2,783.4 |
| | 3,228.5 |
| | 2,434.7 |
| | (445.1 | ) | | 793.8 |
|
Operating Income | 890.7 |
| | 124.7 |
| | 921.2 |
| | 766.0 |
| | (796.5 | ) |
Total Other Deductions, Net | (384.1 | ) | | (355.3 | ) | | (478.2 | ) | | (28.8 | ) | | 122.9 |
|
Income Taxes | 123.5 |
| | (180.0 | ) | | 314.5 |
| | 303.5 |
| | (494.5 | ) |
Net Income (Loss) | 383.1 |
| | (50.6 | ) | | 128.5 |
| | 433.7 |
| | (179.1 | ) |
Preferred dividends | (55.1 | ) | | (15.0 | ) | | — |
| | (40.1 | ) | | (15.0 | ) |
Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Shareholders
| 328.0 |
| | (65.6 | ) | | 128.5 |
| | 393.6 |
| | (194.1 | ) |
Basic Earnings (Loss) Per Share | $ | 0.88 |
| | $ | (0.18 | ) | | $ | 0.39 |
| | $ | 1.06 |
| | $ | (0.57 | ) |
Basic Average Common Shares Outstanding | 374.6 |
| | 356.5 |
| | 329.4 |
| | 18.1 |
| | 27.1 |
|
On a consolidated basis, we reported net income available to common shareholders of $328.0 million or $0.88 per basic share for the twelve months ended December 31, 2019 compared to a loss to common shareholders of $65.6 million or $0.18 per basic share for the same period in 2018. The increase in net income available to common shareholders during 2019 was primarily due to lower operating expenses related to the Greater Lawrence Incident, insurance recoveries recorded related to the Greater Lawrence Incident, and new rates from base rate proceedings and infrastructure replacement programs. These increases were partially offset by non-cash impairments of goodwill and other intangible assets in 2019 related to Columbia of Massachusetts (see Note 6, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets," in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information), higher income taxes (see "Income Taxes" below), higher depreciation expense due to regulatory outcomes at NIPSCO and Columbia of Ohio, and additional dilution in 2019 resulting from preferred stock dividend commitments.
Operating Income
For the twelve months ended December 31, 2019, we reported operating income of $890.7 million compared to $124.7 million for the same period in 2018. The increased operating income was primarily due to decreased operating expenses related to the Greater Lawrence Incident, insurance recoveries recorded related to the Greater Lawrence Incident, and new rates from base rate proceedings and infrastructure replacement programs. These increases were partially offset by non-cash impairments of goodwill and other intangible assets in 2019 related to Columbia of Massachusetts (see Note 6, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Asset," in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information), and increased depreciation due to the regulatory outcome of NIPSCO's gas rate case and an increase in amortization of depreciation previously deferred as a regulatory asset resulting from Columbia of Ohio's CEP.
Other Deductions, Net
Other deductions, net reduced income by $384.1 million in 2019 compared to a reduction in income of $355.3 million in 2018. This change is primarily due to lower actuarial investment returns on pension and other postretirement benefit assets of $34.6 million, and an increase in interest expense of $25.6 million driven by decreased regulatory deferrals from Columbia of Ohio's CEP. These unfavorable variances were partially offset by charitable contributions of $20.7 million in 2018 related to the Greater Lawrence Incident.
Income Taxes
The increase in income tax expense from 2018in 2022 compared to 2019the same period in 2021 is primarily attributable to higher pre-tax income, resulting fromoffset by higher state flow through and the items discussed abovereduction of the Pennsylvania corporate income tax rate.
Refer to Note 11, "Income Taxes," in "Operating Income" and "Other Deductions, Net," true-upsthe Notes to tax expense in 2018 to reflect regulatory outcomes associated with excess deferredConsolidated Financial Statements for additional information on income taxes and higher incomethe change in the effective tax expense in 2019 relatedrate.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION OF OPERATIONS
Presentation of Segment Information
Our operations are divided into two primary reportable segments: Gas Distribution Operations and Electric Operations. The remainder of our operations, which are not significant enough on a stand-alone basis to warrant treatment as an operating segment, are presented as "Corporate and Other" within the Notes to the non-deductible, non-cash impairmentConsolidated Financial Statements and primarily are comprised of goodwill, finesinterest expense on holding company debt, and penalties.
unallocated corporate costs and activities.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
Gas Distribution Operations
Refer to “LiquidityFinancial and Capital Resources” below and Note 10, "Income Taxes," inoperational data for the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on income taxes and the change in the effective tax rate.
Capital Investment
In 2019, we invested approximately $1.9 billion in capital expenditures across the gas and electric utilities. These expenditures were primarily aimed at furthering the safety and reliability of our gas distribution system, and maintaining our existing electric generation fleet.
We continue to execute on an estimated $30 billion in total projected long-term regulated utility infrastructure investments and expect to invest approximately $1.8 to $1.9 billion in capital during 2020 as we continue to focus on growth, safety and modernization projects across our operating area.
Liquidity
A primary focus of ours is to ensure the availability of adequate financing to fund our ongoing safety and infrastructure investment programs which typically involves the issuance of debt and/or equity. In addition, expenses related to the Greater Lawrence Incident have exceeded the total amount of insurance coverage available under our policies. During 2020, we plan to pursue alternatives to cover this shortfall, including long-term financing and potential proceeds from the sale of the Massachusetts Business. For additional information, see Note 26, "Subsequent Event," in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Through income generated from operating activities, amounts available under our short-term revolving credit facility, commercial paper program, accounts receivable securitization facilities, term loan borrowings, long-term debt agreements, our ability to access the capital markets and the potential sale of the Massachusetts Business, we believe there is adequate capital available to fund our operating activities and capital expenditures and the effects of the Greater Lawrence Incident in 2020 and beyond. At December 31, 2019 and 2018, we had approximately $1,409.1 million and $974.6 million, respectively, of net liquidity available, consisting of cash and available capacity under credit facilities.
These factors and other impacts to the financial results are discussed in more detail within the following discussions of “Results and Discussion of Segment Operations” and “Liquidity and Capital Resources.”
Regulatory Developments
In 2019, we continued to move forward on core infrastructure and environmental investment programs supported by complementary regulatory and customer initiatives across all seven states of our operating area. Refer to Note 8, “Regulatory Matters” and Note 19-E, "Other Matters," in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for a complete discussion of key regulatory developments that transpired during 2019.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION OF SEGMENT OPERATIONS
Presentation of Segment Information
Our operations are divided into two primary reportable segments: Gas Distribution Operations segment for the years ended December 31, 2022, 2021 and Electric Operations.2020, are presented below:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | Favorable (Unfavorable) |
Year Ended December 31, (in millions) | 2022 | | 2021 | | 2020 | | 2022 vs. 2021 | | 2021 vs. 2020 |
Operating Revenues | $ | 4,019.8 | | | $ | 3,183.5 | | | $ | 3,140.1 | | | $ | 836.3 | | | $ | 43.4 | |
Operating Expenses | | | | | | | | | |
Cost of energy | 1,534.8 | | | 962.7 | | | 794.2 | | | (572.1) | | | (168.5) | |
Operation and maintenance | 1,045.3 | | | 993.8 | | | 1,138.0 | | | (51.5) | | | 144.2 | |
Depreciation and amortization | 415.9 | | | 383.0 | | | 363.1 | | | (32.9) | | | (19.9) | |
| | | | | | | | | |
Loss (gain) on sale of fixed assets and impairments, net | (103.9) | | | 8.7 | | | 412.4 | | | 112.6 | | | 403.7 | |
Other taxes | 211.9 | | | 217.8 | | | 233.3 | | | 5.9 | | | 15.5 | |
Total Operating Expenses | 3,104.0 | | | 2,566.0 | | | 2,941.0 | | | (538.0) | | | 375.0 | |
Operating Income | $ | 915.8 | | | $ | 617.5 | | | $ | 199.1 | | | $ | 298.3 | | | $ | 418.4 | |
Revenues | | | | | | | | | |
Residential | $ | 2,609.6 | | | $ | 2,143.4 | | | $ | 2,110.6 | | | $ | 466.2 | | | $ | 32.8 | |
Commercial | 942.4 | | | 731.0 | | | 679.7 | | | 211.4 | | | 51.3 | |
Industrial | 221.5 | | | 197.2 | | | 213.8 | | | 24.3 | | | (16.6) | |
Off-System | 192.9 | | | 71.3 | | | 41.0 | | | 121.6 | | | 30.3 | |
Other | 53.4 | | | 40.6 | | | 95.0 | | | 12.8 | | | (54.4) | |
Total | $ | 4,019.8 | | | $ | 3,183.5 | | | $ | 3,140.1 | | | $ | 836.3 | | | $ | 43.4 | |
Sales and Transportation (MMDth) | | | | | | | | | |
Residential | 249.0 | | | 231.2 | | | 249.5 | | | 17.8 | | | (18.3) | |
Commercial | 181.3 | | | 167.0 | | | 170.5 | | | 14.3 | | | (3.5) | |
Industrial | 490.7 | | | 507.1 | | | 538.1 | | | (16.4) | | | (31.0) | |
Off-System | 32.3 | | | 21.6 | | | 23.3 | | | 10.7 | | | (1.7) | |
Other | 0.3 | | | 0.3 | | | 0.3 | | | — | | | — | |
Total | 953.6 | | | 927.2 | | | 981.7 | | | 26.4 | | | (54.5) | |
Heating Degree Days | 5,436 | | | 5,002 | | | 5,097 | | | 434 | | | (95) | |
Normal Heating Degree Days | 5,347 | | | 5,427 | | | 5,485 | | | (80) | | | (58) | |
% Colder (Warmer) than Normal | 2 | % | | (8) | % | | (7) | % | | | | |
% Colder (Warmer) than Prior Year | 9 | % | | (2) | % | | (5) | % | | | | |
Gas Distribution Customers | | | | | | | | | |
Residential | 2,991,913 | | 2,970,157 | | 2,954,478 | | 21,756 | | | 15,679 | |
Commercial | 254,436 | | 253,987 | | 253,184 | | 449 | | | 803 | |
Industrial | 4,870 | | 4,921 | | 4,968 | | (51) | | | (47) | |
Other | 3 | | 4 | | 3 | | (1) | | | 1 | |
Total | 3,251,222 | | 3,229,069 | | 3,212,633 | | 22,153 | | | 16,436 | |
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
Gas Distribution Operations
For the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, operating income (loss) and a reconciliation of net revenues to the most directly comparable GAAP measure, operating income (loss), was as follows:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Year Ended December 31, (in millions) | 2019 | | 2018 | | 2017 | | 2019 vs. 2018 | | 2018 vs. 2017 |
Operating Income (Loss) | $ | 675.4 |
| | $ | (254.1 | ) | | $ | 550.1 |
| | $ | 929.5 |
| | $ | (804.2 | ) |
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Year Ended December 31, (in millions) | 2019 | | 2018 | | 2017 | | 2019 vs. 2018 | | 2018 vs. 2017 |
Net Revenues | | | | | | | | | |
Operating revenues | $ | 3,522.8 |
| | $ | 3,419.5 |
| | $ | 3,102.1 |
| | $ | 103.3 |
| | $ | 317.4 |
|
Less: Cost of sales (excluding depreciation and amortization) | 1,067.6 |
| | 1,259.3 |
| | 1,005.0 |
| | (191.7 | ) | | 254.3 |
|
Net Revenues | 2,455.2 |
| | 2,160.2 |
| | 2,097.1 |
| | 295.0 |
| | 63.1 |
|
Operating Expenses | | | | | | | | | |
Operation and maintenance | 935.7 |
| | 1,908.1 |
| | 1,090.8 |
| | (972.4 | ) | | 817.3 |
|
Depreciation and amortization | 403.2 |
| | 301.0 |
| | 269.3 |
| | 102.2 |
| | 31.7 |
|
Impairment of other intangible assets | 209.7 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 209.7 |
| | — |
|
Loss on sale of fixed assets and impairments, net | 0.1 |
| | 0.2 |
| | 2.8 |
| | (0.1 | ) | | (2.6 | ) |
Other taxes | 231.1 |
| | 205.0 |
| | 184.1 |
| | 26.1 |
| | 20.9 |
|
Total Operating Expenses | 1,779.8 |
| | 2,414.3 |
| | 1,547.0 |
| | (634.5 | ) | | 867.3 |
|
Operating Income (Loss) | $ | 675.4 |
| | $ | (254.1 | ) | | $ | 550.1 |
| | $ | 929.5 |
| | $ | (804.2 | ) |
Revenues | | | | | | | | | |
Residential | $ | 2,317.2 |
| | $ | 2,248.3 |
| | $ | 2,029.4 |
| | $ | 68.9 |
| | $ | 218.9 |
|
Commercial | 775.1 |
| | 753.7 |
| | 669.4 |
| | 21.4 |
| | 84.3 |
|
Industrial | 245.8 |
| | 228.6 |
| | 217.5 |
| | 17.2 |
| | 11.1 |
|
Off-System | 77.7 |
| | 92.4 |
| | 111.8 |
| | (14.7 | ) | | (19.4 | ) |
Other | 107.0 |
| | 96.5 |
| | 74.0 |
| | 10.5 |
| | 22.5 |
|
Total | $ | 3,522.8 |
| | $ | 3,419.5 |
| | $ | 3,102.1 |
| | $ | 103.3 |
| | $ | 317.4 |
|
Sales and Transportation (MMDth) | | | | | | | | | |
Residential | 274.9 |
| | 280.3 |
| | 247.1 |
| | (5.4 | ) | | 33.2 |
|
Commercial | 189.6 |
| | 187.6 |
| | 169.3 |
| | 2.0 |
| | 18.3 |
|
Industrial | 542.5 |
| | 555.7 |
| | 517.5 |
| | (13.2 | ) | | 38.2 |
|
Off-System | 32.9 |
| | 30.0 |
| | 39.0 |
| | 2.9 |
| | (9.0 | ) |
Other | 0.3 |
| | — |
| | 0.3 |
| | 0.3 |
| | (0.3 | ) |
Total | 1,040.2 |
| | 1,053.6 |
| | 973.2 |
| | (13.4 | ) | | 80.4 |
|
Heating Degree Days | 5,375 |
| | 5,562 |
| | 4,927 |
| | (187 | ) | | 635 |
|
Normal Heating Degree Days | 5,452 |
| | 5,610 |
| | 5,610 |
| | (158 | ) | | — |
|
% Warmer than Normal | (1 | )% | | (1 | )% | | (12 | )% | |
|
| |
|
|
Gas Distribution Customers | | | | | | | | | |
Residential | 3,221,178 |
| | 3,194,662 |
| | 3,168,516 |
| | 26,516 |
| | 26,146 |
|
Commercial | 282,778 |
| | 281,517 |
| | 280,362 |
| | 1,261 |
| | 1,155 |
|
Industrial | 5,982 |
| | 5,833 |
| | 6,228 |
| | 149 |
| | (395 | ) |
Other | 3 |
| | 3 |
| | 4 |
| | — |
| | (1 | ) |
Total | 3,509,941 |
| | 3,482,015 |
| | 3,455,110 |
| | 27,926 |
| | 26,905 |
|
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
Gas Distribution Operations (continued)
Comparability of line item operating resultsoperation and maintenance expenses, depreciation and amortization, and other taxes may be impacted by regulatory, depreciation and tax and depreciation trackers (other than those for cost of sales) that allow for the recovery in rates of certain costs. Therefore, increases
The underlying reasons for changes in these trackedour operating expenses are generally offset by increases in net revenues and have essentially no impact on net income.
2019 vs. 2018 Operating Income
For 2019,expenses from 2022 to 2021 are presented in the respective tables below. Please refer to Part II, Item 7, "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Results and Discussion of Segment Operations - Gas Distribution Operations, reported operating income of $675.4 million, an increase in income of $929.5 million from the comparable 2018 period.
Net revenues for 2019 were $2,455.2 million, an increase of $295.0 million from the same period in 2018. The change in net revenues was primarily driven by:
New rates from base rate proceedings and infrastructure replacement programs of $243.2 million.
Higher regulatory, depreciation, and tax trackers, which are offset in operating expense, of $36.2 million.
Higher revenues of $14.5 million resulting from an update in the weather-related normal heating degree day methodology (see further detail below), partially offset by a $7.1 million revenue decrease from the effects of warmer weather in 2019.
The effects of commercial and residential customer growth of $12.8 million.
Operating expenses were $634.5 million lower in 2019 compared to 2018. This change was primarily driven by:
Decreased expenses related to third-party claims and other costs for the Greater Lawrence Incident of $1,090.7 million, net of insurance recoveries recorded.
Partially offset by:
Non-cash impairment" of the ColumbiaCompany's 2021 Annual Report on Form 10-K for discussion of Massachusetts franchise rights of $209.7 million.underlying reasons for changes in our operating revenues and expenses for 2021 versus 2020.
Increased depreciation of $103.8 million due to the regulatory outcome of NIPSCO's gas rate case, an increase in amortization of depreciation previously deferred as a regulatory asset resulting from Columbia of Ohio's CEP, and higher capital expenditures placed in service.
Higher employee and administrative expenses of $50.2 million driven by resources shifting from the temporary assistance on the Greater Lawrence Incident restoration to normal operations (offset in the decreased Greater Lawrence Incident costs discussed above) and an increase in headcount.
Increased regulatory, depreciation, and tax trackers, which are offset in net revenues, of $36.2 million.
Higher property taxes of $22.2 million primarily due to increased amortization of property taxes previously deferred as a regulatory asset resulting from Columbia of Ohio's CEP, as well as higher capital expenditures placed in service.
Higher outside services of $17.4 million primarily due to increased line location and safety-related work.
Higher insurance expense of $9.1 million primarily driven by increased premiums.
2018 vs. 2017 Operating Income
For 2018, Gas Distribution Operations reported an operating loss of $254.1 million, a decrease in income of $804.2 million from the comparable 2017 period.
Net revenues for 2018 were $2,160.2 million, an increase of $63.1 million from the same period in 2017. The change in net revenues was primarily driven by:
New rates from infrastructure replacement programs and base rate proceedings of $99.6 million.
Higher revenues from the effects of colder weather in 2018 of $37.5 million.
The effects of customer growth and increased usage of $17.4 million.
Higher regulatory, tax and depreciation trackers, which are offset in operating expense, of $16.0 million.
Partially offset by:
A revenue reserve of $85.0 million in 2018 resulting from the probable future refund of certain collections from customers as a result of the lower income tax rate from the TCJA.
Decreased rates from implementation of regulatory outcomes related to the TCJA of $24.7 million.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
Gas Distribution Operations (continued)
Operating expenses were $867.3 million higher in 2018 compared to 2017. This change was primarily driven by:
Expenses related to third-party claims and other costs for the Greater Lawrence Incident of $864.4 million, net of insurance recoveries recorded.
Increased depreciation of $29.6 million due to regulatory outcomes of NIPSCO's gas rate case and higher capital expenditures placed in service.
Higher regulatory, tax and depreciation trackers, which are offset in net revenues, of $16.0 million.
Increased property taxes of $11.0 million due to higher capital expenditures placed in service and the impact of regulatory-driven property tax deferrals.
Partially offset by:
Decreased outside services of $33.2 million primarily due to IT service provider transition and other strategic initiative costs in 2017, lower ongoing IT costs and a temporary shift of resources to the Greater Lawrence Incident restoration.
Lower employee and administrative expenses of $30.2 million driven by reduced incentive compensation and a temporary shift of resources to the Greater Lawrence Incident restoration. | | | | | |
| Favorable (Unfavorable) |
Changes in Operating Revenues (in millions) | 2022 vs 2021 |
New rates from base rate proceedings and regulatory capital programs | $ | 169.7 | |
The effects of weather in 2022 compared to 2021 | 31.1 | |
Higher revenue related to off system sales | 8.8 | |
The effects of customer growth | 4.9 | |
Higher revenue due to the effects of resuming common credit mitigation practices | 3.5 | |
Increased customer usage | 2.3 | |
Other | 4.7 | |
Change in operating revenues (before cost of energy and other tracked items) | $ | 225.0 | |
Operating revenues offset in operating expense | |
Higher cost of energy billed to customers | 572.1 | |
Higher tracker deferrals within operation and maintenance, depreciation, and tax | 39.2 | |
Total change in operating revenues | $ | 836.3 | |
Weather
In general, we calculate the weather-related revenue variance based on changing customer demand driven by weather variance from normal heating degree days.days, net of weather normalization mechanisms. Our composite heating degree days reported do not directly correlate to the weather-related dollar impact on the results of Gas Distribution Operations. Heating degree days experienced during different times of the year or in different operating locations may have more or less impact on volume and dollars depending on when and where they occur. When the detailed results are combined for reporting, there may be weather-related dollar impacts on operations when there is not an apparent or significant change in our aggregated composite heating degree day comparison.
Throughput
The definitionincrease in total volumes sold and transported in 2022 compared to 2021 of “normal” weather was updated during the first quarter of 2019 to reflect more current weather pattern data and to more closely align with the regulators' jurisdictional definitions of “normal” weather. Impacts of the change in methodology will be reflected prospectively and disclosed26.4 MMDth is primarily attributable to the extent it results in notable year-over-year variances in net revenues.effects of colder weather.
Weather inCommodity Price Impact
Cost of energy for the Gas Distribution Operations service territories for 2019 was about 1% warmer than normalsegment is principally comprised of the cost of natural gas used while providing transportation and about 3% warmer than 2018; however, duedistribution services to the aforementioned change in methodology, the change in net revenues attributed to weather resulted in an increase of $7.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2019 compared to 2018. The variance is detailed further below:
An update in the weather-related normal heating degree day methodology resulting in a favorable variance attributed to weather of $14.5 million, as discussed above.
Offset by:
The effects of warmer weather in 2019 of $7.1 million.
Weather in the Gas Distribution Operations service territories for 2018 was about 1% warmer than normal and about 13% colder than 2017, increasing net revenues $37.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to 2017.
Throughput
Total volumes sold and transported for the year ended December 31, 2019 were 1,040.2 MMDth, compared to 1,053.6 MMDth for 2018. This decrease is primarily attributable to warmer weather experienced in 2019 compared to 2018.
Total volumes sold and transported for the year ended December 31, 2018 were 1,053.6 MMDth, compared to 973.2 MMDth for 2017. This increase is primarily attributable to colder weather experienced in 2018 compared to 2017.
Economic Conditions
customers. All of our Gas Distribution Operations companies have state-approved recovery mechanisms that provide a means for full recovery of prudently incurred gas costs. GasThese are tracked costs that are treated as pass-through costspassed through directly to the customer, and have no impact on the net revenues recorded in the period. The gas costs included in revenues are matched with the gas cost expense recorded in the period and theperiod. The difference is recorded on the Consolidated Balance Sheets as under-recovered or over-recovered gas cost to be included in future customer billings.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
Gas Distribution Operations (continued)
Therefore, increases in these tracked operating expenses are offset by increases in operating revenues and have essentially no impact on net income.
Certain Gas Distribution Operations companies continue to offer choice opportunities, where customers can choose to purchase gas from a third-party supplier, through regulatory initiatives in their respective jurisdictions. These programs serve to further reduce our exposure to gas prices.
Greater Lawrence Incident
Refer to Note 19-C. "Legal Proceedings," and E. "Other Matters," in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, "Summary of Consolidated Financial Results" and "Liquidity and Capital Resources" in this Management's Discussion, and Part I. Item 1A. "Risk Factors" for additional information related to the Greater Lawrence Incident.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
Gas Distribution Operations (continued)
| | | | | |
| Favorable (Unfavorable) |
Changes in Operating Expenses (in millions) | 2022 vs 2021 |
Property insurance settlement related to the Greater Lawrence Incident | $ | 105.0 | |
Lower NiSource Next program expenses | 20.0 | |
Lower other than income taxes primarily related to property tax expense | 17.8 | |
Loss on sale and expenses related to the Massachusetts Business in 2021 | 16.6 | |
Higher depreciation and amortization expense | (35.1) | |
Higher outside services expenses | (12.2) | |
Higher employee and administrative related expenses | (10.0) | |
Higher fleet expenses | (5.5) | |
Rate case settlement impacts | (3.7) | |
Higher unrecoverable environmental remediation costs | (2.7) | |
Higher materials and supplies expense | (2.7) | |
| |
| |
Earnings test reserve adjustment in 2021 | (2.5) | |
Other | (11.7) | |
Change in operating expenses (before cost of energy and other tracked items) | $ | 73.3 | |
Operating expenses offset in operating revenue | |
Higher cost of energy billed to customers | (572.1) | |
Higher tracker deferrals within operation and maintenance, depreciation, and tax | (39.2) | |
Total change in operating expense | $ | (538.0) | |
Columbia of Massachusetts Asset Sale
On February 26,October 9, 2020, we entered into the Asset Purchase Agreement with Eversource providing forcompleted the sale of our Massachusetts Business. In March 2021, we reached an agreement with Eversource regarding the Massachusetts Business to Eversource, subject tofinal purchase price, including net working capital adjustments. This resulted in a pre-tax loss for the termsyears ended December 31, 2022 and conditions set forth in2021 of zero and $6.8 million, respectively, based on asset and liability balances as of the agreement. For additional information, see Note 26, “Subsequent Event,” inclose of the Notes totransaction on October 9, 2020, transaction costs and the final purchase price. The pre-tax loss is presented as "Loss (gain) on sale of assets, net" on the Statements of Consolidated Financial Statements.
Income (Loss).
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
Electric Operations
ForFinancial and operational data for the Electric Operations segment for the years ended December 31, 2019, 20182022, 2021 and 2017, operating income and a reconciliation of net revenues to the most directly comparable GAAP measure, operating income, was as follows:2020, are presented below:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | Favorable (Unfavorable) |
Year Ended December 31, (in millions) | 2022 | | 2021 | | 2020 | | 2022 vs. 2021 | | 2021 vs. 2020 |
Operating Revenues | $ | 1,831.7 | | | $ | 1,697.1 | | | $ | 1,536.6 | | | $ | 134.6 | | | $ | 160.5 | |
Operating Expenses | | | | | | | | | |
Cost of energy | 575.8 | | | 429.7 | | | 315.2 | | | (146.1) | | | (114.5) | |
Operation and maintenance | 486.2 | | | 493.6 | | | 497.6 | | | 7.4 | | | 4.0 | |
Depreciation and amortization | 362.9 | | | 329.4 | | | 321.3 | | | (33.5) | | | (8.1) | |
Gain on sale of fixed assets and impairments, net | — | | | (0.9) | | | — | | | (0.9) | | | 0.9 | |
Other taxes | 44.4 | | | 57.5 | | | 53.7 | | | 13.1 | | | (3.8) | |
Total Operating Expenses | 1,469.3 | | | 1,309.3 | | | 1,187.8 | | | (160.0) | | | (121.5) | |
Operating Income | $ | 362.4 | | | $ | 387.8 | | | $ | 348.8 | | | $ | (25.4) | | | $ | 39.0 | |
Revenues | | | | | | | | | |
Residential | $ | 592.4 | | | $ | 568.0 | | | $ | 527.8 | | | $ | 24.4 | | | $ | 40.2 | |
Commercial | 571.0 | | | 534.9 | | | 480.3 | | | 36.1 | | | 54.6 | |
Industrial | 561.4 | | | 494.1 | | | 412.9 | | | 67.3 | | | 81.2 | |
Wholesale | 13.5 | | | 15.7 | | | 12.3 | | | (2.2) | | | 3.4 | |
Other | 93.4 | | | 84.4 | | | 103.3 | | | 9.0 | | | (18.9) | |
Total | $ | 1,831.7 | | | $ | 1,697.1 | | | $ | 1,536.6 | | | $ | 134.6 | | | $ | 160.5 | |
Sales (Gigawatt Hours) | | | | | | | | | |
Residential | 3,482.9 | | | 3,546.8 | | | 3,484.0 | | | (63.9) | | | 62.8 | |
Commercial | 3,682.4 | | | 3,698.0 | | | 3,550.0 | | | (15.6) | | | 148.0 | |
Industrial | 7,915.3 | | | 8,253.7 | | | 7,480.3 | | | (338.4) | | | 773.4 | |
Wholesale | 50.0 | | | 124.7 | | | 83.6 | | | (74.7) | | | 41.1 | |
Other | 89.5 | | | 108.5 | | | 106.0 | | | (19.0) | | | 2.5 | |
Total | 15,220.1 | | | 15,731.7 | | | 14,703.9 | | | (511.6) | | | 1,027.8 | |
Cooling Degree Days | 942 | | | 1,020 | | | 900 | | | (78) | | | 120 | |
Normal Cooling Degree Days | 831 | | | 803 | | | 803 | | | 28 | | | — | |
% Warmer than Normal | 13 | % | | 27 | % | | 12 | % | | | | |
% Warmer (Colder) than prior year | (8) | % | | 13 | % | | | | | | |
Electric Customers | | | | | | | | | |
Residential | 424,735 | | | 422,436 | | | 418,871 | | | 2,299 | | | 3,565 | |
Commercial | 58,374 | | | 58,010 | | | 57,435 | | | 364 | | | 575 | |
Industrial | 2,130 | | | 2,137 | | | 2,154 | | | (7) | | | (17) | |
Wholesale | 710 | | | 714 | | | 722 | | | (4) | | | (8) | |
Other | 3 | | | 2 | | | 2 | | | 1 | | | — | |
Total | 485,952 | | | 483,299 | | | 479,184 | | | 2,653 | | | 4,115 | |
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Year Ended December 31, (in millions) | 2019 | | 2018 | | 2017 | | 2019 vs. 2018 | | 2018 vs. 2017 |
Operating Income | $ | 406.8 |
| | $ | 386.1 |
| | $ | 367.4 |
| | $ | 20.7 |
| | $ | 18.7 |
|
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Year Ended December 31, (in millions) | 2019 | | 2018 | | 2017 | | 2019 vs. 2018 | | 2018 vs. 2017 |
Net Revenues | | | | | | | | | |
Operating revenues | $ | 1,699.2 |
| | $ | 1,708.2 |
| | $ | 1,786.5 |
| | $ | (9.0 | ) | | $ | (78.3 | ) |
Less: Cost of sales (excluding depreciation and amortization) | 467.3 |
| | 502.1 |
| | 513.9 |
| | (34.8 | ) | | (11.8 | ) |
Net Revenues | 1,231.9 |
| | 1,206.1 |
| | 1,272.6 |
| | 25.8 |
| | (66.5 | ) |
Operating Expenses | | | | | | | | | |
Operation and maintenance | 495.0 |
| | 500.0 |
| | 565.6 |
| | (5.0 | ) | | (65.6 | ) |
Depreciation and amortization | 277.3 |
| | 262.9 |
| | 277.8 |
| | 14.4 |
| | (14.9 | ) |
Loss (gain) on sale of fixed assets and impairments, net | (0.1 | ) | | — |
| | 1.9 |
| | (0.1 | ) | | (1.9 | ) |
Other taxes | 52.9 |
| | 57.1 |
| | 59.9 |
| | (4.2 | ) | | (2.8 | ) |
Total Operating Expenses | 825.1 |
| | 820.0 |
| | 905.2 |
| | 5.1 |
| | (85.2 | ) |
Operating Income | $ | 406.8 |
| | $ | 386.1 |
| | $ | 367.4 |
| | $ | 20.7 |
| | $ | 18.7 |
|
Revenues | | | | | | | | | |
Residential | $ | 481.6 |
| | $ | 494.7 |
| | $ | 476.9 |
| | $ | (13.1 | ) | | $ | 17.8 |
|
Commercial | 486.7 |
| | 492.6 |
| | 501.2 |
| | (5.9 | ) | | (8.6 | ) |
Industrial | 608.4 |
| | 614.4 |
| | 698.1 |
| | (6.0 | ) | | (83.7 | ) |
Wholesale | 11.7 |
| | 15.7 |
| | 11.6 |
| | (4.0 | ) | | 4.1 |
|
Other | 110.8 |
| | 90.8 |
| | 98.7 |
| | 20.0 |
| | (7.9 | ) |
Total | $ | 1,699.2 |
| | $ | 1,708.2 |
| | $ | 1,786.5 |
| | $ | (9.0 | ) | | $ | (78.3 | ) |
Sales (Gigawatt Hours) | | | | | | | | | |
Residential | 3,369.5 |
| | 3,535.2 |
| | 3,301.7 |
| | (165.7 | ) | | 233.5 |
|
Commercial | 3,760.3 |
| | 3,844.6 |
| | 3,793.5 |
| | (84.3 | ) | | 51.1 |
|
Industrial | 8,466.1 |
| | 8,829.5 |
| | 9,469.7 |
| | (363.4 | ) | | (640.2 | ) |
Wholesale | 8.2 |
| | 114.3 |
| | 32.5 |
| | (106.1 | ) | | 81.8 |
|
Other | 117.2 |
| | 124.4 |
| | 128.2 |
| | (7.2 | ) | | (3.8 | ) |
Total | 15,721.3 |
| | 16,448.0 |
| | 16,725.6 |
| | (726.7 | ) | | (277.6 | ) |
Cooling Degree Days | 962 |
| | 1,180 |
| | 837 |
| | (218 | ) | | 343 |
|
Normal Cooling Degree Days | 803 |
| | 806 |
| | 806 |
| | (3 | ) | | — |
|
% Warmer than Normal | 20 | % | | 46 | % | | 4 | % | |
|
| |
|
|
Electric Customers | | | | | | | | | |
Residential | 415,534 |
| | 412,267 |
| | 409,401 |
| | 3,267 |
| | 2,866 |
|
Commercial | 57,058 |
| | 56,605 |
| | 56,134 |
| | 453 |
| | 471 |
|
Industrial | 2,256 |
| | 2,284 |
| | 2,305 |
| | (28 | ) | | (21 | ) |
Wholesale | 726 |
| | 735 |
| | 739 |
| | (9 | ) | | (4 | ) |
Other | 2 |
| | 2 |
| | 2 |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Total | 475,576 |
| | 471,893 |
| | 468,581 |
| | 3,683 |
| | 3,312 |
|
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
Electric Operations (continued)
Comparability of line item operating resultsoperation and maintenance expenses and depreciation and amortization may be impacted by regulatory and depreciation trackers (other than those for cost of sales) that allow for the recovery in rates of certain costs. Therefore, increases
The underlying reasons for changes in these trackedour operating expenses are offset by increases in net revenues and have essentially no impact on net income.
2019 vs. 2018 Operating Income
For 2019,expenses from 2022 to 2021 are presented in the respective tables below. Please refer to Part II, Item 7, "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Results and Discussion of Segment Operations - Electric Operations, reported operating income of $406.8 million, an increase of $20.7 million from the comparable 2018 period.
Net revenues for 2019 were $1,231.9 million, an increase of $25.8 million from the same period in 2018. The change in net revenues was primarily driven by:
New rates from the recent rate case proceeding, incremental capital spend on infrastructure replacement programs, and electric transmission projects of $24.8 million.
Decreased fuel handling costs of $11.0 million.
Higher regulatory and depreciation trackers, which are offset in operating expense, of $8.4 million.
Increased commercial and residential customer growth of $3.9 million.
Partially offset by:
Lower revenues from the effects of cooler weather of $15.1 million.
Decreased residential, commercial and industrial usage of $10.8 million.
Operating expenses were $5.1 million higher in 2019 than 2018. This change was primarily driven by:
Higher regulatory and depreciation trackers, which are offset in net revenues, of $8.4 million.
Increased depreciation of $8.7 million due to higher capital expenditures placed in service.
Partially offset by:
Decreased materials and supplies costs of $7.8 million, primarily related to the retirement of Bailly Generating Station Units 7 and 8 on May 31, 2018.
Decreased employee and administrative costs of $5.0 million.
2018 vs. 2017 Operating Income
For 2018, Electric Operations reported operating income of $386.1 million, an increase of $18.7 million from the comparable 2017 period.
Net revenues for 2018 were $1,206.1 million, a decrease of $66.5 million from the same period in 2017. The change in net revenues was primarily driven by:
Lower regulatory and depreciation trackers, which are offset in operating expense, of $35.6 million.
Decreased rates from implementation of regulatory outcomes related to the TCJA of $32.9 million.
Decreased industrial usage of $17.1 million.
A revenue reserve of $16.2 million in 2018 resulting from the probable future refund of certain collections from customers as a result" of the lower income tax rateCompany's 2021 Annual Report on Form 10-K for discussion of underlying reasons for changes in our operating revenues and expenses for 2021 versus 2020.
| | | | | |
| Favorable (Unfavorable) |
Changes in Operating Revenues (in millions) | 2022 vs 2021 |
PPA revenue from renewable JV projects, fully offset by JV operating expenses and noncontrolling interest net income (loss) | $ | 27.5 | |
The effects of customer growth | 4.6 | |
Decreased fuel handling costs | 4.0 | |
New rates from regulatory capital and DSM programs | 2.8 | |
Decreased customer usage | (18.5) | |
Reduction in gross receipts tax, offset in operating expenses | (10.3) | |
FAC adjustment(1) | (8.0) | |
FAC over earnings reserve | (5.8) | |
The effects of weather in 2022 compared to 2021 | (5.0) | |
Other | (2.4) | |
Change in operating revenues (before cost of energy and other tracked items) | $ | (11.1) | |
Operating revenues offset in operating expense | |
Higher cost of energy billed to customers | 146.1 | |
Lower tracker deferrals within operation and maintenance, depreciation and tax | (0.4) | |
Total change in operating revenues | $ | 134.6 | |
(1)See Note 9, "Regulatory Matters," in the TCJA .
Increased fuel handling costs of $7.3 million.
Partially offset by:
The effects of warmer weather of $25.2 million.
Increased rates from infrastructure replacement programs of $18.6 million.
Operating expenses were $85.2 million lower in 2018 than 2017. This change was primarily driven by:
Lower regulatory and depreciation trackers, which are offset in net revenues, of $35.6 million.
Lower outside service costs of $32.1 million and lower material and supplies costs of $10.2 million primarily relatedNotes to the retirement of Bailly Generating Station Units 7 and 8 on May 31, 2018.
Decreased employee and administrative costs of $18.4 million.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
Electric Operations (continued)
Partially offset by:
Increased depreciation of $10.0 million due to higher capital expenditures placed in service.
Weather
In general, we calculate the weather-related revenue variance based on changing customer demand driven by weather variance from normal heating or cooling degree days. Our composite heating or cooling degree days reported do not directly correlate to the weather-related dollar impact on the results of Electric Operations. Heating or cooling degree days experienced during different times of the year may have more or less impact on volume and dollars depending on when they occur. When the detailed results are combined for reporting, there may be weather-related dollar impacts on operations when there is not an apparent or significant change in our aggregated composite heating or cooling degree day comparison.
The definition of “normal” weather was updated duringSales
NIPSCO's Electric Segment results remains closely linked to the first quarter of 2019 to reflect more current weather pattern data and to more closely align with the regulators' jurisdictional definitions of “normal” weather. Impactsperformance of the change in methodology will be reflected prospectivelysteel industry. MWh sales to steel-related industries accounted for approximately 47.4% and disclosed to48.1% of the extent it results in notable year-over-year variances in net revenues.
Weather in the Electric Operations’ territories for 2019 was 20% warmer than normal and 18% cooler than the same period in 2018, decreasing net revenues $15.1 milliontotal industrial MWh sales for the yearyears ended December 31, 2019 compared to 2018.2022 and 2021, respectively.
Weather inCommodity Price Impact
Cost of energy for the Electric Operations’ territoriesOperations segment is principally comprised of the cost of coal, natural gas purchased for 2018 was 46% warmer than normal and 41% warmer than the same period in 2017, increasing net revenues $25.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to 2017.
Sales
Electric Operations sales were 15,721.3 GWh for 2019, a decrease of 726.7 GWh, or 4.4% compared to 2018. This decrease was primarily attributable to higher internal generation from large industrial customers in 2019of electricity at NIPSCO, and the effectscost of cooler weather on residential and commercial customers.
Electric Operations sales were 16,448.0 GWh for 2018, a decreasepower purchased from generators of 277.6 GWh, or 1.7% compared to 2017. This decrease was primarily attributable to higher internal generation from large industrial customers in 2018, partially offset by increased volumes for residential and commercial customers resulting from warmer weather.
BP Products North America. On March 29, 2018, WCE, which is currently owned by BP p.l.c ("BP") and BP Products North America, which operates the BP Refinery, filed a petition at the IURC asking that the combined operations of WCE and BP be treated as a single premise, and the WCE generation be dedicated primarily to BP Refinery operations beginning in May 2019 as WCE has self-certified as a qualifying facility at FERC. BP Refinery planned to continue to purchase electric service from NIPSCO at a reduced demand level beginning May 2019; however, a settlement agreement was filed on November 2, 2018 agreeing that BP and WCE would not move forward with construction of a private transmission line to serve BP until conclusion of NIPSCO's pending electric rate case. The IURC approved the settlement agreement as filed on February 20, 2019. On December 4, 2019, the IURC issued an order in the electric rate case approving the implementation of a new industrial service structure. This resolved the issues included in BP’s original petition. Refer to Note 8, "Regulatory Matters," in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
Economic Conditions
electricity. NIPSCO has a state-approved recovery mechanism that provides a means for full recovery of prudently incurred fuel costs. Fuel costs of energy. The majority of these costs of energy are treated as pass-throughpassed through directly to the customer, and the costs and have no impact onof energy included in operating revenues are matched with the net revenuescost of energy expense recorded in the period. The fuel costs included in revenues are matched with the fuel cost expense recorded in the period and the difference is recorded on the Consolidated Balance Sheets as under-recovered or over-recovered fuel cost to be included in future customer billings.
NIPSCO's performance remains closely linked to the performance of the steel industry. NIPSCO’s MWh sales to steel-related industries accounted for approximately 51.5% Therefore, increases in these tracked operating expenses are offset by increases in operating revenues and 49.7% of the total industrial MWh sales for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively.
Electric Supply
NIPSCO 2018 Integrated Resource Plan. Multiple factors, but primarily economic ones, including low natural gas prices, advancing cost effective renewable technology and increasing capital and operating costs associated with existing coal plants, have led NIPSCO to conclude in its October 2018 Integrated Resource Plan submission that NIPSCO’s current fleet of coal generation facilities will be retired earlier than previous Integrated Resource Plan’s had indicated.
essentially no impact on net income.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
N
ISOURCE INC.
Electric Operations (continued)
The Integrated Resource Plan evaluated demand-side and supply-side resource alternatives to reliably and cost effectively meet NIPSCO customers' future energy requirements over the ensuing 20 years. The preferred option within the Integrated Resource Plan retires R.M. Schahfer Generating Station (Units 14, 15, 17, and 18) by 2023 and Michigan City Generating Station (Unit 12) by 2028. These units represent 2,080 MW of generating capacity, equal to 72% of NIPSCO’s remaining capacity after the retirement of Bailly Units 7 and 8 in May of 2018.
The current replacement plan includes renewable sources of energy, including wind, solar, and battery storage to be obtained through a combination of NIPSCO ownership and PPAs. Refer to Note 19-E, "Other Matters," in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
Electric Operations (continued)
| | | | | |
| Favorable (Unfavorable) |
Changes in Operating Expenses (in millions) | 2022 vs 2021 |
Renewable JV project expenses, offset by JV operating revenues | $ | (25.5) | |
Higher depreciation and amortization expense driven by the JV depreciation adjustment(1) | (15.7) | |
Effects of environmental recoveries in 2021 | (6.5) | |
Higher outside services expenses | (5.7) | |
Expenses related to the accelerated retirement of the R.M. Schahfer Generating Station's coal Units 14 and 15 in 2021 | 13.2 | |
Reduction in gross receipts tax, offset in operating revenues | 10.3 | |
Lower NiSource Next program expenses | 8.1 | |
Lower employee and administrative expenses | 5.6 | |
Other | 1.9 | |
Change in operating expenses (before cost of energy and other tracked items) | $ | (14.3) | |
Operating expenses offset in operating revenue | |
Higher cost of energy billed to customers | (146.1) | |
Lower tracker deferrals within operation and maintenance, depreciation and tax | 0.4 | |
Total change in operating expense | $ | (160.0) | |
(1)See Note 9, "Regulatory Matters," in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
Electric Supply and Generation Transition
NIPSCO continues to execute on an electric generation transition consistent with the 2018 Plan, which outlines the path to retire the remaining two coal units at Schahfer by the end of 2025 and the remaining coal-fired generation by the end of 2028, to be replaced by lower-cost, reliable and cleaner options. See "Project Status" discussion, below, and "Liquidity and Capital Resources" in this Management's Discussion for anticipated barriers to the success of our electric generation transition and additional information on our capital investment spend.
NIPSCO continues to work with the EPA and the Indiana Department of Environmental Management to obtain administrative approvals associated with the operation of R.M. Schahfer’s remaining two coal units beyond 2023. In the event that the approvals are not obtained, future operations could be impacted. We cannot estimate the financial impact on us if these approvals are not obtained.
The current replacement plan primarily includes renewable sources of energy, including wind, solar, and battery storage to be obtained through a combination of NIPSCO ownership and PPAs. NIPSCO has sold, and may in the future sell, renewable energy credits from this generation to third parties to offset customer costs. NIPSCO has executed several PPAs to purchase 100% of the output from renewable generation facilities at a fixed price per MWh. Each facility supplying the energy will have an associated nameplate capacity, and payments under the PPAs will not begin until the associated generation facility is constructed by the owner/seller. NIPSCO has also executed several BTAs with developers to construct renewable generation facilities.
Three wind projects have been placed into service, totaling approximately 804 MW of nameplate capacity. All announced projects below have received IURC approval. During 2022, NIPSCO amended certain of its BTAs and PPAs. NIPSCO is discussing potentially amending other BTAs and PPAs. Any amendments that result in increased project costs may require additional approval by the IURC in order to obtain recovery for increased costs. Our current replacement program will be augmented by the Preferred Energy Resource Plan outlined in our 2021 Integrated Resource Plan. See "Executive Summary - Your Energy, Your Future" in this Management's Discussion for additional information.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
Electric Operations (continued)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Project Name | Transaction Type | Technology | Nameplate Capacity (MW) | Storage Capacity (MW) | | | |
| | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
Dunn's Bridge I(1) | BTA | Solar | 265 | — | | | |
Indiana Crossroads Solar(1) | BTA | Solar | 200 | — | | | |
Dunn's Bridge II(1) | BTA | Solar & Storage | 435 | 75 | | | |
Cavalry(1) | BTA | Solar & Storage | 200 | 60 | | | |
Fairbanks(1) | BTA | Solar | 250 | — | | | |
Elliott(1) | BTA | Solar | 200 | — | | | |
Indiana Crossroads II | 15 year PPA | Wind | 204 | — | | | |
Brickyard | 20 year PPA | Solar | 200 | — | | | |
Greensboro | 20 year PPA | Solar & Storage | 100 | 30 | | | |
Gibson | 22 year PPA | Solar | 280 | — | | | |
Green River | 20 year PPA | Solar | 200 | — | | | |
(1) Ownership of the facilities will be transferred to JVs whose members are expected to include NIPSCO and an unrelated tax equity partner.
Project Status. Our contract amendments with certain solar agreements will result in the majority of our remaining projects, and investments, being placed in service between 2023 and 2025. These amendments also formally address inflationary cost pressures communicated from the developers of our solar and storage projects that are primarily due to (i) unavailability of solar panels and other uncertainties related to the pending U.S. Department of Commerce investigation on Antidumping and Countervailing Duties petition filed by a domestic solar manufacturer (the "DOC Investigation"), (ii) the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's June 2021 Withhold Release Order on silica-based products made by Hoshine Silicon Industry Co., Ltd./Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act, (iii) Section 201 Tariffs and (iv) persistent general global supply chain and labor availability issues. We are also monitoring the developers of our renewable energy projects related to local permitting processes and obtaining interconnection rights. Preliminary findings from the DOC Investigation were released in December 2022, with a final decision expected in May 2023. The resolution of these issues, including the final conclusion of the DOC Investigation will determine which, if any, of our solar projects will be subject to any tariffs imposed.
In June 2022, the Biden Administration announced a 24-month tariff relief on solar panels subject to the ongoing U.S. Department of Commerce investigation and authorized the use of the Defense Production Act, to accelerate domestic production of clean energy technologies, including solar panel parts.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Greater Lawrence Incident:We continually evaluate the availability of adequate financing to fund our ongoing business operations, working capital and core safety and infrastructure investment programs. Our financing is sourced through cash flow from operations and the issuance of debt and/or equity. External debt financing is provided primarily through the issuance of long-term debt, accounts receivable securitization programs and our $1.5 billion commercial paper program, which is backstopped by our committed revolving credit facility with a total availability from third-party lenders of $1.85 billion. On December 20, 2022, we entered into a $1.0 billion term credit agreement that matures on December 19, 2023. On February 18, 2022, we amended our revolving credit agreement to, among other things, extend its term to February 18, 2027. The commercial paper program and credit facility provide cost-effective, short-term financing until it can be replaced with a balance of long-term debt and equity financing that achieves our desired capital structure. On June 10, 2022, we completed the issuance and sale of $350.0 million of 5.00% senior unsecured notes maturing in 2052, which resulted in approximately $344.6 million of net proceeds after discount and debt issuance costs. We intend to disburse an amount equal to the net proceeds of the notes to finance, in whole or in part, the acquisition of our 302 MW Indiana Crossroads Wind project and 102 MW Rosewater Wind project from the project developer. On November 7, 2022, we announced that we intend to pursue the sale of a minority interest in our NIPSCO business unit. We utilize an ATM equity program that allows us to issue and sell shares of our common stock up to an aggregate issuance of $750.0 million through December 31, 2023. As of December 31, 2022, the ATM program had approximately $300.0 million of equity available for issuance. We also expect to remarket the Series C Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock prior to December 1, 2023, which could result in additional cash proceeds. As discussed in the "Executive Summary" and in See Note 19, “Other Commitments and Contingencies”13, "Equity," in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements we have recordedfor more information on our ATM program and paid costs associated with the Equity Units.
We believe these sources provide adequate capital to fund our operating activities and capital expenditures in 2023 and beyond.
Greater Lawrence Incident and have invested capital to replace the entire affected 45-mile cast iron and bare steel pipeline system that delivers gas to the impacted area. Incident. As discussed in the "Executive Summary," Note 19 referenced earlier in this paragraph, and Part I, Item 1A, “Risk"Risk Factors,” we may incur additional expenses" and liabilities in excess of our recorded liabilitiesNote 19, "Other Commitments and estimated additional costs associated with the Greater Lawrence Incident. Since the Greater Lawrence Incident and through December 31, 2019, we have collected $800 million from insurance providers; however, total costs related to the incident have exceeded the total amount of insurance coverage available under our policies. To date, this excess has primarily been funded through short-term borrowings. During 2020, we plan to pursue alternatives to these short-term borrowings, which include long-term financing and potential proceeds from the sale of the Massachusetts Business. For additional information, see Note 26, “Subsequent Event,”Contingencies," in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.Statements, due to the inherent uncertainty of litigation, there can be no assurance that the outcome or resolution of any particular claim related to the Greater Lawrence Incident will not continue to have an adverse impact on our cash flows. Through income generated from operating activities, amounts available under the short-term revolving credit facility, and our ability to access capital markets, we believe we have adequate capital available to settle remaining anticipated claims associated with the Greater Lawrence Incident.
Operating Activities
Net cash from operating activities for the year ended December 31, 20192022 was $1,583.3$1,409.4 million, an increase of $1,043.2$191.5 million from 2018.2021. This increase was primarily driven primarilyby a year over year increase in revenue and collection of under-recovered gas and fuel cost from the prior year. This was offset by increased cash outflows related to inventory purchases year over year due to higher gas costs.
Investing Activities
Net cash used for investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2022 was $2,570.2 million, an increase of $365.3 million from 2021. Our current year investing activities were comprised of increased capital expenditures related to system growth and reliability as well as payments to renewable generation asset developers related to Dunn's Bridge I and Indiana Crossroads Solar milestone payments. This was offset by the receipt of $795 million ofproperty insurance recoveries in 2019 related to the Greater Lawrence Incident and approximately $220 million lower cash spend for the Greater Lawrence Incident in 2019. Refer to Note 19, "Other Commitments and Contingencies" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further informationsettlement related to the Greater Lawrence Incident.
Pension and Other Postretirement Plan Funding. In 2019, we contributed $2.9 million to our pension plans and $23.0 million to our other postretirement benefit plans. In 2018, we contributed $2.9 million to our pension plans and $21.0 million to our other postretirement benefit plans. Given the current funded status of the pension plans, and barring unforeseen market volatility that may negatively impact the valuation of our plan assets, we do not believe additional material contributions to our pension plans will be required for the foreseeable future.
Income Taxes. Rates for our regulated customers include provisions for the collection of U.S. federal income taxes. The reduction in the U.S. federal corporate income tax rate as a result of the TCJA led to a decrease in the amount billed to customers through rates, ultimately resulting in lower cash collections from operating activities. In addition, we are required to pass back to customers “excess deferred taxes” which represent amounts collected from customers in the past to cover deferred tax liabilities which, as a result of the passage of the TCJA, are now less than the originally billed amounts. Approximately $1.5 billion of excess deferred taxes was recorded as a regulatory liability as of December 31, 2017 as a result of implementing the TCJA. The majority of this balance related to temporary book-to-tax differences on utility property protected by IRS normalization rules; this portion of the excess deferred taxes balance will be passed back to customers over the remaining average useful life of the associated property as required by the TCJA. The remainder of the excess deferred tax balance is passed back over periods determined by our state utility commissions. The pass back of excess deferred taxes has been approved in all our jurisdictions. As of December 31, 2019, we have approximately $1.3 billion of remaining regulatory liabilities associated with excess deferred taxes.As of December 31, 2019, we have a deferred tax asset of $657.1 million related to a federal NOL carryforward, of which $406.1 million relates to years prior to the implementation of the TCJA. As a result of being in an NOL position, we were not required to make any cash payments for federal income tax purposes during the three years ended December 31, 2019. The carryforward periods for pre-TCJA tax benefits expire in various tax years from 2028 to 2037; however, we expect to fully utilize the carryforward benefit prior to its expiration. According to the TCJA, utilization of NOL carryforwards generated after December 31, 2017 do not expire but are limited to 80% of current year taxable income. Accordingly, we may be required to make cash payments for federal income taxes in future years despite having NOL carryforwards in excess of current taxes payable.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
Investing Activities
Our cash used for investing activities varies year over year primarily as a result of changes in the level of annual capital expenditures. Capital Expenditures. The table below reflects actual capital expenditures and certain other investing activities by segment for 2019, 2018 and 2017.2022.
|
| | | | | | | | | | | |
(in millions) | 2019 | | 2018(3) | | 2017 |
Gas Distribution Operations | | | | | |
System Growth and Tracker | $ | 1,006.1 |
| | $ | 897.5 |
| | $ | 909.2 |
|
Maintenance | 374.3 |
| | 417.8 |
| | 216.4 |
|
Total Gas Distribution Operations | 1,380.3 |
| | 1,315.3 |
| | 1,125.6 |
|
Electric Operations | | | | | |
System Growth and Tracker | 279.5 |
| | 346.0 |
| | 435.3 |
|
Maintenance | 189.4 |
| | 153.3 |
| | 157.1 |
|
Total Electric Operations | 468.9 |
| | 499.3 |
| | 592.4 |
|
Corporate and Other Operations - Maintenance(1) | 18.6 |
| | — |
| | 35.8 |
|
Total(2) | $ | 1,867.8 |
|
| $ | 1,814.6 |
|
| $ | 1,753.8 |
|
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Actual | | |
(in millions) | 2022 | | | | | | |
Gas Distribution Operations | | | | | | | |
System Growth and Tracker | $ | 1,266.1 | | | | | | | |
Maintenance | 329.7 | | | | | | | |
Total Gas Distribution Operations(1) | 1,595.8 | | | | | | | |
Electric Operations | | | | | | | |
System Growth and Tracker | 345.0 | | | | | | | |
Maintenance | 164.2 | | | | | | | |
Generation Transition Investments | 31.4 | | | | | | | |
Total Electric Operations(1) | 540.6 | | | | | | | |
Corporate and Other Operations - Maintenance(1) | 161.6 | | | | | | | |
Total Capital Expenditures(2) | $ | 2,298.0 | | | | | | | |
(1)Amounts differ from those presented in Note 21, "Business Segment Information," in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements due to the allocation of Corporate and Other capital expenditures were zero in 2018 as specific IT assets were leased in 2018. Certain ITMaintenance Costs to the Gas Distribution and other maintenance related assets were purchased in 2017 and 2019.Electric Operations segments.
(2)Amounts differ from those presented on the Statements of Consolidated Cash Flows primarily due to the capitalized portion of the Corporate Incentive Plan payout, inclusion of capital expenditures included in current liabilities and AFUDC Equity.
(3) The 2018In addition to these capital expenditures, we made $323.9 million of capital investments in the form of milestone payments to the renewable generation asset developer.
We expect to make capital investments totaling approximately $15 billion during the 2023-2027 period related to infrastructure modernization, generation transition and renewables and customer growth for Gas Distribution Operations reflects reclassifying the Greater Lawrence Incident pipeline replacement from system growthnext five years:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(in billions) | 2022 Actual | 2023 Estimated | 2024 Estimated | 2025 Estimated | 2026 Estimated | 2027 Estimated |
Capital Investments | $2.6 | $3.3 - 3.6 | $2.6 - 2.9 | $3.1 - 3.4 | $2.7 - 3.0 | $ 2.7 - 3.0 |
Regulatory Capital Programs. We replace pipe and trackermodernize our gas infrastructure to maintenance.
For 2019, capital expenditures and certain other investing activities were $1,867.8 million, which was $53.2 million higher than the 2018 capital program. This increased spending is primarily due to growth,enhance safety and system modernization projects.reliability and reduce leaks. An ancillary benefit of these programs is the reduction of GHG emissions. In 2022, we continued to move forward on core infrastructure and environmental investment programs supported by complementary regulatory and customer initiatives across all six states of our operating area.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
The following table describes the most recent vintage of our regulatory programs to recover infrastructure replacement and other federally mandated compliance investments currently in rates or pending commission approval:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(in millions) | | | | |
Company | Program | Incremental Revenue | Incremental Capital Investment | Investment Period | Costs Covered(1) | Rates Effective |
Columbia of Ohio(2) | IRP - 2022 | $ | 25.0 | | $ | 232.9 | | 1/21-12/21 | Replacement of (1) hazardous service lines, (2) cast iron, wrought iron, uncoated steel, and bare steel pipe, (3) natural gas risers prone to failure and (4) installation of AMR devices. | May 2022 |
Columbia of Ohio(2) | CEP - 2022 | $ | 32.2 | | $ | 253.5 | | 1/21-12/21 | Assets not included in the IRP. | September 2022 |
NIPSCO - Gas(3) | TDSIC 4 | $ | 0.5 | | $ | 77.5 | | 7/21-12/21 | New or replacement projects undertaken for the purpose of safety, reliability, system modernization or economic development. | July 2022 |
NIPSCO - Gas(4) | FMCA 1 | $ | 1.5 | | $ | 14.1 | | 10/21-3/22 | Project costs to comply with federal mandates. | October 2022 |
| | | | | | |
NIPSCO - Gas(4) | FMCA 2 | $ | 5.3 | | $ | 38.2 | | 4/22-9/22 | Project costs to comply with federal mandates. | April 2023 |
Columbia of Virginia(5) | SAVE - 2023 | $ | 4.5 | | $ | 45.9 | | 1/23-12/23 | Replacement projects that (1) enhance system safety or reliability, or (2) reduce, or potentially reduce, greenhouse gas emissions. | January 2023 |
Columbia of Kentucky(6) | SMRP - 2023 | $ | 1.6 | | $ | 41.6 | | 1/23-12/23 | Replacement of mains and inclusion of system safety investments. | January 2023 |
Columbia of Maryland | STRIDE - 2023 | $ | 1.3 | | $ | 18.0 | | 1/23-12/23 | Pipeline upgrades designed to improve public safety or infrastructure reliability. | January 2023 |
NIPSCO - Electric(7) | TDSIC - 1 | $ | 10.4 | | $ | 148.5 | | 6/21-1/22 | New or replacement projects undertaken for the purpose of safety, reliability, system modernization or economic development. | August 2022 |
NIPSCO - Electric | TDSIC - 2 | $ | 6.6 | | $ | 143.5 | | 2/22-7/22 | New or replacement projects undertaken for the purpose of safety, reliability, system modernization or economic development. | February 2023 |
(1)Programs do not include any costs already included in base rates.
(2)The January through March 2021 investments included in these filings are also included in the pending Columbia of Ohio rate case. The infrastructure filings will be adjusted to reflect the final rate case outcome.
(3)NIPSCO Gas program incremental revenue decreased because of revisions for the rate case compliance filings amounts included in base rates.
(4)NIPSCO received approval for a new certificate of public convenience and necessity on December 28, 2022 for an additional Pipeline Safety III Compliance Plan, including $235.3M in capital expenditures and certain other investing activities were $1,814.6 million, which$34.1M in operation and maintenance expense project investments.
(5) Columbia of Virginia received a final order on November 1, 2022 modifying the SAVE filing incremental revenue and investments.
(6)Columbia of Kentucky received an Order on December 28, 2022, modifying its 2023 SMRP filing by removing recovery of the 2022 investment not recovered as part of the most recently approved rate case. This modification lowered incremental revenue recovered through SMRP to $1.6M, a reduction of $3.2M from the original filing.
(7)NIPSCO filed for a new electric TDSIC plan on June 1, 2021. An order approving NIPSCO's new electric TDSIC plan was $60.8 million higher than the 2017 capital program. This increased spending is due in part to costs associatedreceived on December 28, 2021.
On March 30, 2022, NIPSCO Electric filed a petition with the Greater Lawrence Incident pipeline replacement, gas transmission projects, environmental investments and system modernization projects across all seven states in our operating area.
For 2020, weIURC seeking approval of NIPSCO's federally mandated costs for closure of Michigan City Generating Station's CCR ash ponds. The project to invest approximately $1.8 to $1.9 billion in our capital program. This projected levelincludes a total estimated $40.0 million of spend is consistent with 2019 spend levels andfederally mandated retirement costs. A final order is expected in the first quarter of 2023. On November 2, 2022, NIPSCO Electric filed a petition with the IURC seeking approval of NIPSCO's federally mandated costs for closure of R.M. Schahfer Generation Station's multi-cell unit. The project includes a total estimated $53.0 million of federally mandated retirement costs. NIPSCO is requesting all associated accounting and ratemaking relief, including establishment of a periodic rate adjustment through the FMCA mechanism. On February 21, 2023, the Indiana Court of Appeals issued a decision in a case filed by an Indiana utility company interpreting a statute authorizing recovery of federally mandated costs, finding that such costs incurred prior to focus on growth, safety,issuance of an order by the IURC are not recoverable as federally mandated costs. If any of NIPSCO’s CCR costs were determined to be not eligible for recovery under the federal mandate mechanism, NIPSCO would seek recovery through depreciation within base rates.Refer to Note 19, "Other Commitments and modernization projects across our operating area.Contingencies - E. Environmental Matters," in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion of the CCRs.
Refer to Note 9, "Regulatory Matters," in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for a further discussion of regulatory developments during 2022.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
Financing Activities
Common Stock, Preferred Stock and Equity Unit Sale. Refer to Note 13, "Equity," in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for information on common stock, preferred stock and equity units activity.
Short-term Debt. Refer to Note 15, “Short-Term16, "Short-Term Borrowings,”" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for information on short-term debt.
Long-term Debt. Refer to Note 14, “Long-Term15, "Long-Term Debt,”" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for information on long-term debt.
Net Available Liquidity. Non-controlling InterestAs of December 31, 2019, an aggregate of $1,409.1 million of net liquidity was available, including cash and credit available under. Refer to Note 4, "Variable Interest Entities," in the revolving credit facility and accounts receivable securitization programs.Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for information on contributions from noncontrolling interest activity.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
Liquidity
The following table displays NiSource'sour liquidity position as of December 31, 20192022 and 2018:2021:
| | Year Ended December 31, (in millions) | 2019 | 2018 | Year Ended December 31, (in millions) | 2022 | 2021 |
Current Liquidity | | Current Liquidity | |
Revolving Credit Facility | $ | 1,850.0 |
| $ | 1,850.0 |
| Revolving Credit Facility | $ | 1,850.0 | | $ | 1,850.0 | |
Accounts Receivable Program(1) | 353.2 |
| 399.2 |
| |
Accounts Receivable Programs(1) | | Accounts Receivable Programs(1) | 447.2 | | 251.2 | |
Less: | | Less: | |
Commercial Paper | 570.0 |
| 978.0 |
| Commercial Paper | 415.0 | | 560.0 | |
Accounts Receivable Program Utilized | 353.2 |
| 399.2 |
| |
Accounts Receivable Programs Utilized | | Accounts Receivable Programs Utilized | 347.2 | | — | |
Letters of Credit Outstanding Under Credit Facility | 10.2 |
| 10.2 |
| Letters of Credit Outstanding Under Credit Facility | 10.2 | | 18.9 | |
Add: | | Add: | |
Cash and Cash Equivalents | 139.3 |
| 112.8 |
| Cash and Cash Equivalents | 40.8 | | 84.2 | |
Net Available Liquidity | $ | 1,409.1 |
| $ | 974.6 |
| Net Available Liquidity | $ | 1,565.6 | | $ | 1,606.5 | |
(1)Represents the lesser of the seasonal limit or maximum borrowings supportable by the underlying receivables.
Debt Covenants. We are subject to a financial covenant under our revolving credit facility and term loancredit agreement, which requires us to maintain a debt to capitalization ratio that does not exceed 70%. A similar covenant in a 2005 private placement note purchase agreement requires us to maintain a debt to capitalization ratio that does not exceed 75%. As of December 31, 2019,2022, the ratio was 61.7%58.9%.
Sale of Trade Accounts Receivables. Refer to Note 18, “Transfers of Financial Assets,” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for information on the sale of trade accounts receivable.
Credit Ratings. The credit rating agencies periodically review our ratings, taking into account factors such as our capital structure and earnings profile. The following table includes our and certain of our subsidiaries'NIPSCO's credit ratings and ratings outlook as of December 31, 2019.2022. There have been no changes to our credit ratings or outlooks since February 2020.
A credit rating is not a recommendation to buy, sell or hold securities, and may be subject to revision or withdrawal at any time by the assigning rating organization.
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| S&P | Moody's | Fitch |
| Rating | Outlook | Rating | Outlook | Rating | Outlook |
NiSource | BBB+ | NegativeStable | Baa2 | Stable | BBB | Stable |
NIPSCO | BBB+ | Negative
Stable | Baa1 | Stable | BBB | Stable |
Columbia of Massachusetts | BBB+ | Negative
| Baa2 | Stable | Not rated | Not rated |
Commercial Paper | A-2 | Negative
Stable | P-2 | Stable | F2 | Stable |
Certain of our subsidiaries have agreements that contain “ratings triggers” that require increased collateral if our credit ratings or the credit ratings of certain of our subsidiaries are below investment grade. These agreements are primarily for insurance purposes and for the physical purchase or sale of power. As of December 31, 2019, the2022, a collateral requirement thatof approximately $85.7 million would be required in the event of a downgrade below the ratings trigger levels would amount to approximately $72.1 million.investment grade. In addition to agreements with ratings triggers, there are other agreements that contain “adequate assurance” or “material adverse change” provisions that could necessitate additional credit support such as letters of credit and cash collateral to transact business.
Equity. Our authorized capital stock consists of 620,000,000 shares, $0.01 par value, of which 600,000,000 are common stock and 20,000,000 are preferred stock. As of December 31, 2019, 382,135,6802022, 412,142,602 shares of common stock and 440,0001,302,500 shares of preferred stock were outstanding. For more information regarding our common and preferred stock, see Note 12,13, "Equity," in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
Contractual Obligations,. Cash Requirements and Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
We have certain contractual obligations requiring payments at specified periods. The obligations include long-term debt, lease obligations, energy commodity contracts and obligations for various services including pipeline capacity and outsourcing of IT services. The total contractual obligations in existence at December 31, 2019 and their maturities were:Our material cash requirements are detailed below. We intend to use funds from the liquidity sources referenced above to meet these cash requirements.
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(in millions) | Total | | 2020 | | 2021 | | 2022 | | 2023 | | 2024 | | After |
Long-term debt (1) | $ | 7,738.6 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 63.6 |
| | $ | 530.0 |
| | $ | 600.0 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 6,545.0 |
|
Interest payments on long-term debt | 6,214.2 |
| | 342.0 |
| | 340.7 |
| | 337.1 |
| | 311.1 |
| | 299.9 |
| | 4,583.4 |
|
Finance leases(2) | 325.9 |
| | 27.2 |
| | 27.3 |
| | 26.8 |
| | 23.1 |
| | 19.9 |
| | 201.6 |
|
Operating leases(3) | 79.1 |
| | 15.6 |
| | 9.4 |
| | 8.2 |
| | 7.6 |
| | 6.6 |
| | 31.7 |
|
Energy commodity contracts(4) | 95.9 |
| | 65.5 |
| | 30.4 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Service obligations: | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Pipeline service obligations | 3,450.7 |
| | 605.0 |
| | 590.1 |
| | 546.8 |
| | 357.2 |
| | 237.5 |
| | 1,114.1 |
|
IT service obligations | 153.2 |
| | 63.6 |
| | 49.4 |
| | 38.0 |
| | 1.1 |
| | 1.1 |
| | — |
|
Other service obligations(5) | 59.8 |
| | 45.8 |
| | 14.0 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Other liabilities | 27.3 |
| | 27.3 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Total contractual obligations | $ | 18,144.7 |
| | $ | 1,192.0 |
| | $ | 1,124.9 |
| | $ | 1,486.9 |
| | $ | 1,300.1 |
| | $ | 565.0 |
| | $ | 12,475.8 |
|
(1) Long-term debt balance excludes unamortized issuance costs and discounts of $70.5 million.
(2) Finance lease payments shown above are inclusive of interest totaling $108.3 million.
(3) Operating lease payments shown above are inclusive of interest totaling $14.3 million. Operating lease balances do not include obligations for possible fleet vehicle lease renewals beyond the initial lease term. While we have the ability to renew these leases beyond the initial term, we are not reasonably certain (as that term is defined in ASC 842) to do so. If we were to continue the fleet vehicle leases outstanding at December 31, 2019, payments would be $34.5 million in 2020, $28.3 million in 2021, $23.4 million in 2022, $19.9 million in 2023, $15.2 million in 2024 and $15.2 million thereafter.
(4)In January 2020, NIPSCO signed new coal contract commitments of $14.4 million for 2020. These contracts are not included above.
(5)In February 2020, NIPSCO signed a new railcar coal transportation contract commitment of $12.0 million for 2020. This contract is not included above.
Our calculated estimated interest payments for long-term debt is based on the stated coupon and payment dates. For 2020, we project that we will be required to make interest payments of approximately $368.2 million, which includes $342.0 million of interest payments related to our long-term debt outstanding as of December 31, 2019. At December 31, 2019,2022, we had $1,773.2$1,761.9 million in short-term borrowings outstanding. Refer to Note 15, "Long-Term Debt," and Note 16, "Short-Term Borrowings," in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further information on long-term debt and short-term borrowings, respectively.
During 2023 and 2024, we expect to make cash payments of $642.2 million and $556.9 million, respectively, related to pipeline service obligations including demand for gas transportation, gas storage and gas purchases.
Our expected payments included within “Other liabilities” in the table of contractual commitments above containsinclude employer contributions to pension and other postretirement benefits plans expected to be made in 2020.2023. Plan contributions beyond 20202023 are dependent upon a number of factors, including actual returns on plan assets, which cannot be reliably estimated at this time. In 2020,2023, we expect to make contributions of approximately $3.0$2.6 million to our pension plans and approximately $24.0$23.7 million to our postretirement medical and life plans. Refer to Note 11, “Pension12, "Pension and Other PostretirementPostemployment Benefits,”" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for more information.
We cannot reasonably estimate the settlement amounts or timing of cash flows related to certain of our long-term obligations classified as “Total"Total Other Liabilities”Liabilities" on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, other than those described above.Sheets.
We also have obligations associated with income, property, gross receipts, franchise, payroll, sales and use, and various other taxes and expect to make tax payments of approximately $247.1 million in 2020, which are not included in the table above. In addition, we have uncertain income tax positions that are not included in the table above asfor which we are unable to predict when the matters will be resolved. Refer to Note 10,11, "Income Taxes," in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for more information.
Refer to Note 19-A, “Contractual Obligations,” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further information.
In January 2019, NIPSCO has executed two 20 yearseveral PPAs to purchase 100% of the output from renewable generation facilities at a fixed price per MWh. Payments under the PPAs will not begin until the associated generation facilities are constructed by the owner / seller which is currently scheduled to be complete by the end of 2020 for one facility. Payments that will be made under the agreements are not included in the table of contractual commitments above as there are no minimum payment obligations under the agreements. NIPSCO has filed a noticealso executed several BTAs with the IURC of its intention notdevelopers to move forward with one of its approved PPAs due to the failure to meet a condition precedent in the agreement as a result of local zoning restrictions.construct renewable generation facilities. See Note 19-E, “Other19, "Other Commitments and Contingencies - A. Contractual Obligations," and Note 19, "Other Commitments and Contingencies," - F. "Other Matters - NIPSCO 2018 Integrated Resource Plan,”Generation Transition," in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
In January 2019, NIPSCO executed a BTA with a developer to construct a renewable generation facility with a nameplate capacity of approximately 100 MW; construction of the facility is expected to be completed by the end of 2020. In October 2019, NIPSCO
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
executed a BTA with a developer to construct an additional renewable generation facility with a nameplate capacity of approximately 300 MW; construction of this facility is expected to be completed by the end of 2021. Payments under these agreements are not included in the table of contractual commitments as NIPSCO's purchase requirement under these BTAs is dependent on satisfactory approval of the BTAs by the IURC, successful execution of agreements with a tax equity partner, and timely completion of construction. See Note 19-E, “Other Matters - NIPSCO 2018 Integrated Resource Plan,” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
We,addition, we, along with certain of our subsidiaries, enter into various agreements providing financial or performance assurance to third parties on behalf of certain subsidiaries. Such agreements include guarantees and stand-by letters of credit.
Refer to Note 19, “Other"Other Commitments and Contingencies,”" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information about suchregarding our contractual obligations over the next 5 years and thereafter and our off-balance sheet arrangements.
Market Risk Disclosures
Risk is an inherent part of our businesses. The extent to which we properly and effectively identify, assess, monitor and manage each of the various types of risk involved in our businesses is critical to our profitability. We seek to identify, assess, monitor and manage, in accordance with defined policies and procedures, the following principal market risks that are involved in our businesses: commodity price risk, interest rate risk and credit risk. Risk management for us isWe manage risk through a multi-faceted process with oversight by the Risk Management Committee that requires constant communication, judgment and knowledge of specialized products and markets. Our senior management takes an active role in the risk management process and has developed policies and procedures that require specific administrative and business functions to assist in the identification, assessment and control of various risks. These may include, but are not limited to market, operational, financial, compliance and strategic risk types. In recognition of the increasingly varied and complex nature of the energy business, our risk management process, policies and procedures continue to evolve and are subject to ongoing review and modification.
Commodity Price Risk
We are exposed toOur Gas and Electric Operations have commodity price risk as a resultprimarily related to the purchases of our subsidiaries’ operations involving natural gas and power. To manage this market risk, our subsidiaries use derivatives, including commodity futures contracts, swaps, forwards and options. We do not participate in speculative energy trading activity.
Commodity price risk resulting from derivative activities at our rate-regulated subsidiaries is limited and does not bear signification exposure to earnings risk, since regulationsour current regulatory mechanisms allow recovery of prudently incurred purchased power, fuel and gas costs through the rate-making process, including gains or losses on these derivative instruments. These changes are included in the GCA and FAC regulatory rate-recovery mechanisms. If states should explore additional regulatory reform,these mechanisms were to be adjusted or eliminated, these subsidiaries may begin providing services without the benefit of the traditional rate-making process and may be more exposed to commodity price risk. For additional information, see "Results and Discussion of Segment Operations" in this Management's Discussion.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
Our subsidiaries are required to make cash margin deposits with their brokers to cover actual and potential losses in the value of outstanding exchange traded derivative contracts. The amount of these deposits, some of which is reflected in our restricted cash balance, may fluctuate significantly during periods of high volatility in the energy commodity markets.
Refer to Note 9,10, "Risk Management Activities," in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further information on our commodity price risk assets and liabilities as of December 31, 20192022 and 2018.2021.
Interest Rate Risk
We are exposed to interest rate risk as a result of changes in interest rates on borrowings under our revolving credit agreement, commercial paper program, term loancredit agreement and accounts receivable programs, which have interest rates that are indexed to short-term market interest rates. Based upon average borrowings and debt obligations subject to fluctuations in short-term market interest rates, an increase (or decrease) in short-term interest rates of 100 basis points (1%) would have increased (or decreased) interest expense by $19.0$8.7 million and $13.3$3.1 million for 20192022 and 2018,2021, respectively. We are also exposed to interest rate risk as a result of changes in benchmark rates that can influence the interest rates of future debt issuances. From time to time we may enter into forward interest rate instruments to lock in long term interest costs and/ or rates.
Refer to Note 9,10, "Risk Management Activities," in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further information on our interest rate risk assets and liabilities as of December 31, 20192022 and 2018.2021.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
Credit Risk
Due to the nature of the industry, credit risk is embedded in many of our business activities. Our extension of credit is governed by a Corporate Credit Risk Policy. In addition, our Risk Management Committee has put guidelines are in place which document management approval levels for credit limits, evaluation of creditworthiness, and credit risk mitigation efforts. Exposures to credit risks are monitored by the risk management function, which is independent of commercial operations. Credit risk arises due to the possibility that a customer, supplier or counterparty will not be able or willing to fulfill its obligations on a transaction on or before the settlement date. For derivative-related contracts, credit risk arises when counterparties are obligated to deliver or purchase defined commodity units of gas or power to us at a future date per execution of contractual terms and conditions. Exposure to credit risk is measured in terms of both current obligations and the market value of forward positions net of any posted collateral such as cash and letters of credit.
We closely monitor the financial status of our banking credit providers. We evaluate the financial status of our banking partners through the use of market-based metrics such as credit default swap pricing levels, and also through traditional credit ratings provided by major credit rating agencies.
Other Information
Critical Accounting PoliciesEstimates
We apply certain accounting policies based on the accounting requirements discussed belowin accordance with GAAP, which require that we make estimates and judgments that have had, and may continue to have, significant impacts on our operations and Consolidated Financial Statements. 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 in preparing our Consolidated Financial Statements:
Basis of Accounting for Rate-Regulated Subsidiaries. ASC Topic 980, Regulated Operations, provides that rate-regulated subsidiaries account for and report assets and liabilities consistent with the economic effect of the way in which regulators establish rates, if the rates established are designed to recover the costs of providing the regulated service and if the competitive environment makes it probable that such rates can be charged and collected. Certain expenses and credits subject to utility regulation or rate determination normally reflected in income are deferred on the Consolidated Balance Sheets and are recognized in income as the related amounts are included in service rates and recovered from or refunded to customers. The total amounts of regulatory assets and liabilities reflected on the Consolidated Balance Sheets were $2,239.6$2,580.8 million and $2,512.2$2,012.6 million at December 31, 2019,2022, and $2,237.5$2,492.2 million and $2,660.0$1,980.0 million at December 31, 2018,2021, respectively. For additional information, refer to Note 8, “Regulatory9, "Regulatory Matters,”" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
In the event that regulation significantly changes the opportunity for us to recover our costs in the future, all or a portion of our regulated operations may no longer meet the criteria for the application of ASC Topic 980, Regulated Operations. In such event, a write-down of all or a portion of our existing regulatory assets and liabilities could result. If transition cost recovery is approved by the appropriate regulatory bodies that would meet the requirements under GAAP for continued accounting as
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
regulatory assets and liabilities during such recovery period, the regulatory assets and liabilities would be reported at the recoverable amounts. If we were unable to continue to apply the provisions of ASC Topic 980, Regulated Operations, we would be required to apply the provisions of ASC Topic 980-20, Discontinuation of Rate-Regulated Accounting. In management’s opinion, our regulated subsidiaries will be subject to ASC Topic 980, Regulated Operations for the foreseeable future.
Certain of the regulatory assets reflected on our Consolidated Balance Sheets require specific regulatory action in order to be included in future service rates. Although recovery of these amounts is not guaranteed, we believe that these costs meet the requirements for deferral as regulatory assets. Regulatory assets requiring specific regulatory action amounted to $307.2 million at December 31, 2019. If we determine that the amounts included as regulatory assets were not recoverable,are no longer probable of recovery, a charge to income would immediately be required to the extent of the unrecoverable amounts.
The passageOne of the TCJA into law in December 2017 necessitatedmore significant items recorded through the remeasurementapplication of our deferred income tax balancesthis accounting guidance is the regulatory overlay for JV accounting. The application of HLBV to reflect the changeconsolidated VIEs generally results in the statutory federal tax raterecognition of profit from 35% to 21%. For our regulated entities, substantially allthe related JVs over a time frame that is different from when the regulatory return is earned. In accordance with the principles of the impact of this remeasurement was recorded toASC 980, we have recognized a regulatory liabilitydeferral of certain amounts representing the timing difference between the profit earned from the JVs and is being passed backedthe amount included in regulated rates to customers, as established during the rate making process.recover our approved investments in consolidated JVs. For additional information, refer to Note 8, "Regulatory Matters,"1, "Nature of Operations and Note 10, "Income Taxes,Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - S. VIEs and Allocation of Earnings," in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
As discussedEquity Unit Transaction. We record the Series C Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock and forward purchase contracts that comprise the Corporate Units as a single unit of account and classify the Corporate Units as equity under the provisions of ASC 480 and ASC 815. Significant judgments regarding the economic linkage between the Series C Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock and the forward purchase contracts, as well as the substance of the terms and conditions of the Corporate Units, were required by management in Note 19-E, "Other Matters - Greater Lawrence Pipeline Replacement," sincemaking these determinations.
The initial classification of the Greater Lawrence IncidentCorporate Units, whether viewed as a single unit of account or as two freestanding financial instruments, would affect our financial results. If determined to be two units of account, the forward purchase contracts underlying the Corporate Units would be classified as a derivative and result in impacts to net income through December 31, 2019, wethe recognition of interest expense and mark-to-market adjustments. If determined to be one unit of account, the equity classification of the Corporate Units would have invested approximately $258 million of capital spend forno material impact on net income. Each classification has differing impacts to the pipeline replacementnumerator in the affected communities;computation of EPS.
We consider that there are a small number of similar equity hosted unit structures and that our unit structure is unique. We also consider that the provisions of ASC 480 and ASC 815 that govern the determination of unit of account are highly complex and that alternate conclusions reached under this work was completedguidance would result in 2019. We maintain property insurancematerially different financial results. See Note 13, "Equity," in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for gas pipelines and other applicable property. Columbia of Massachusetts has filed a proof of loss with its property insurer for the full costadditional details of the pipeline replacement. In January 2020, we filed a lawsuit against the property insurer, seeking payment of our property claim. We are currently unable
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
to predict the timing or amount of any insurance recovery under the property policy. The recovery of any capital investment not reimbursed through insurance will be addressed in a future regulatory proceeding; a future regulatory proceeding is dependent on the outcome of the sale of the Massachusetts Business. The outcome of such a proceeding (if any) is uncertain. In accordance with ASC 980-360, if it becomes probable that a portion of the pipeline replacement cost will not be recoverable through customer rates and an amount can be reasonably estimated, we will reduce our regulated plant balance for the amount of the probable disallowance and record an associated charge to earnings. This could result in a material adverse effect to our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Additionally, if a rate order is received allowing recovery of the investment with no or reduced return on investment, a loss on disallowance may be required.equity unit transaction.
Pension and Postretirement Benefits. We have defined benefit plans for both pension and other postretirement benefits. The calculation of the net obligations and annual expense related to the plans requires a significant degree of judgment regarding the discount rates to be used in bringing the liabilities to present value, expected long-term rates of return on plan assets, health care trend rates, and mortality rates, among other assumptions. Due to the size of the plans and the long-term nature of the associated liabilities, changes in the assumptions used in the actuarial estimates could have material impacts on the measurement of the net obligations and annual expense recognition. Differences between actuarial assumptions and actual plan results are deferred into AOCI or a regulatory balance sheet account, depending on the jurisdiction of our entity. These deferred gains or losses are then amortized into the income statement when the accumulated differences exceed 10% of the greater of the projected benefit obligation or the fair value of plan assets (known in GAAP as the “corridor” method) or when settlement accounting is triggered.
The discount rates, expected long-term rates of return on plan assets, health care cost trend rates and mortality rates are critical assumptions. Methods used to develop these assumptions are described below. While a third party actuarial firm assists with the development of many of these assumptions, we are ultimately responsible for selecting the final assumptions.
The discount rate is utilized principally in calculating the actuarial present value of pension and other postretirement benefit obligations and net periodic pension and other postretirement benefit plan costs. Our discount rates for both pension and other postretirement benefits are determined using spot rates along an AA-rated above median yield curve with cash flows matching the expected duration of benefit payments to be made to plan participants.
The expected long-term rate of return on plan assets is a component utilized in calculating annual pension and other
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
postretirement benefit plan costs. We estimate the expected return on plan assets by evaluating expected bond returns, equity risk premiums, target asset allocations, the effects of active plan management, the impact of periodic plan asset rebalancing and historical performance. We also consider the guidance from our investment advisors in making a final determination of our expected rate of return on assets.
For measurement of 20202022 net periodic benefit cost, we selected ana weighted-average assumption of the expected pre-tax long-term rate of return of 5.70%4.80% and 5.67%5.72% for our pension and other postretirement benefit plan assets, respectively. For measurement of 2023 net periodic benefit cost, we selected a weighted-average assumption of the expected pre-tax long-term rate of return of 7.00% and 6.69% for our pension and other postretirement benefit plan assets, respectively.
We estimate the assumed health care cost trend rate, which is used in determining our other postretirement benefit net expense, based upon our actual health care cost experience, the effects of recently enacted legislation, third-party actuarial surveys and general economic conditions.
We use the Society of Actuaries’ most recently published mortality data in developingutilize a best estimate of mortality as part of the calculation of the pension and other postretirement benefit obligations.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
The following tables illustrate the effects of changes in these actuarial assumptions while holding all other assumptions constant:
|
| | | | | | | |
| Impact on December 31, 2019 Projected Benefit Obligation Increase/(Decrease) |
Change in Assumptions (in millions) | Pension Benefits | | Other Postretirement Benefits |
+50 basis points change in discount rate | $ | (89.9 | ) | | $ | (29.0 | ) |
-50 basis points change in discount rate | 97.7 |
| | 31.8 |
|
+50 basis points change in health care trend rates | | | 15.0 |
|
-50 basis points change in health care trend rates | | | (13.1 | ) |
| | | |
| Impact on 2019 Expense Increase/(Decrease)(1) |
Change in Assumptions (in millions) | Pension Benefits | | Other Postretirement Benefits |
+50 basis points change in discount rate | $ | (1.8 | ) | | $ | 0.3 |
|
-50 basis points change in discount rate | 1.9 |
| | 0.7 |
|
+50 basis points change in expected long-term rate of return on plan assets | (8.9 | ) | | (1.2 | ) |
-50 basis points change in expected long-term rate of return on plan assets | 8.9 |
| | 1.2 |
|
+50 basis points change in health care trend rates | | | 0.6 |
|
-50 basis points change in health care trend rates | | | (0.5 | ) |
(1)Before labor capitalization and regulatory deferrals.
In January 2017, we changed the method usedfull yield curve approach to estimate the service and interest components of net periodic benefit cost for pension and other postretirement benefits. This change, compared to the previous method, resulted in a decrease in the actuarially-determined service and interest cost components. Historically, we estimated service and interest cost utilizing a single weighted-average discount rate derived from the yield curve used to measure the benefit obligation at the beginning of the period. For fiscal 2017 and beyond, we now utilize a full yield curve approach to estimate these componentsbenefits by applying the specific spot rates along the yield curve used in the determination of the benefit obligation to the relevant projected cash flows. For further discussion of our pension and other postretirement benefits, see Note 11, “Pension12, "Pension and Other PostretirementPostemployment Benefits,”" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Typically, we use the Society of Actuaries’ most recently published mortality data in developing a best estimate of mortality as part of the calculation of the pension and other postretirement benefit obligations. We adopted Aon's U.S. Endemic Mortality Improvement scale MP-2021, accounting for both the near-term and long-term COVID-19 impacts.
The following tables illustrate the effects of changes in these actuarial assumptions while holding all other assumptions constant:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Impact on December 31, 2022 Projected Benefit Obligation Increase/(Decrease) |
Change in Assumptions (in millions) | Pension Benefits | | Other Postretirement Benefits |
+50 basis points change in discount rate | $ | (52.6) | | | $ | (19.2) | |
-50 basis points change in discount rate | 56.7 | | | 20.8 | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| Impact on 2022 Expense Increase/(Decrease)(1) |
Change in Assumptions (in millions) | Pension Benefits | | Other Postretirement Benefits |
+50 basis points change in discount rate | $ | (1.7) | | | $ | 0.5 | |
-50 basis points change in discount rate | 1.9 | | | 0.8 | |
+50 basis points change in expected long-term rate of return on plan assets | (9.2) | | | (1.5) | |
-50 basis points change in expected long-term rate of return on plan assets | 9.2 | | | 1.5 | |
| | | |
| | | |
(1)Before labor capitalization and regulatory deferrals.
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets. We have sevensix goodwill reporting units, comprised of the sevensix state operating companies within the Gas Distribution Operations reportable segment. Our goodwill assets at December 31, 20192022 were $1,486 million, most of which resulted from the acquisition of Columbia on November 1, 2000.
As required by GAAP, we test for impairment of goodwill on an annual basis and on an interim basis when events or circumstances indicate that a potential impairment may exist. Our annual goodwill test takes place in the second quarter of each year and was performed on May 1, 2019.2022. A qualitative ("step 0") test was completed on May 1, 20192022 for all reporting units other than our Columbia of Massachusetts reporting unit.units. In the Step 0 analysis, we assessed various assumptions, events and circumstances that would have affected the estimated fair value of the applicable reporting units as compared to theirthe baseline "step 1" fair value measurement performed May 1, 2016 “step 1” fair value measurement.2020. The results of this assessment indicated that it is notwas more likely than not that thesethe estimated fair value of the reporting units fairsubstantially exceeded the related carrying values are less than their reporting unit carrying values; therefore, no “step 1” analysis was required.
The results of our Columbia of Massachusetts reporting unit were negatively impacted by the Greater Lawrence Incident (see Note 19-C, "Legal Proceedings," in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements). As a result, we completed a quantitativeunits; therefore, no "step 1" analysis forwas required and no impairment charges were indicated. Since the May 1, 2019annual evaluation, there have been no indications that the fair values of the goodwill analysis for this reporting unit. Consistent with our historical impairment testing of goodwill, fair value of this reporting unit was determined based on a weighting of income and market approaches. These approaches require significant judgments including appropriate long-term growth rates and discount rates forunits have decreased below the income approach and appropriate multiples of earnings for peer companies and control premiums for the market approach. The discount rates were derived using peer company data compiled with the assistance of a third party valuation services firm. The discount rates used are subject to change based on changes in tax rates at both the state and federal level, debt and equity ratios at each reporting unit and general economic conditions. The long-term growth rate was derived by evaluating historic growth rates, new business and investment opportunities beyond the near term horizon. The long-term growth rate is subject to change depending on inflationary impacts to
carrying values.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
the U.S. economy and the individual business environments in which each reporting unit operates. The Step 1 analysis performed indicated that the fair valueAs noted above, application of the Columbia of Massachusetts reporting unit exceeds its carrying value. As a result, no impairment charge was recorded as of the May 1, 2019 test date.
Although our annualqualitative goodwill impairment test is performed during the second quarter, we continuerequires evaluating various events and circumstances to monitor changes in circumstances that may indicate thatdetermine whether it is not more likely than not that the fair value of oura reporting unitsunit is less than its carrying amount. Although we believe all relevant factors were considered in the reporting unit carrying value. Duringqualitative impairment analysis to reach the fourth quarter of 2019,conclusion that goodwill is not impaired, significant changes in connection with the preparationany one of the year-end financial statements, we assessed matters related to Columbiaassumptions could potentially result in the recording of Massachusetts. While there was no single determinative event or factor,an impairment that could have significant impacts on the consideration in totality of several factors that developed during the fourth quarter of 2019 led us to conclude that it was more likely than not that the fair value of the Columbia of Massachusetts reporting unit was below its carrying value. These factors included: (i) increased Massachusetts DPU regulatory enforcement activity related to Columbia of Massachusetts during the fourth quarter, including (a) an order imposing work restrictions on Columbia of Massachusetts, impacting Columbia of Massachusetts' infrastructure replacement program, (b) two orders opening public investigations into Columbia of Massachusetts related to the Greater Lawrence Incident and restoration efforts following the incident, and (c) an order defining the scope of the Massachusetts DPU's investigation into the preparation and response of Columbia of Massachusetts related to the incident; (ii) increased uncertainty as to the ability of Columbia of Massachusetts to execute its growth strategy, including utility infrastructure investments, and to obtain timely regulatory outcomes with reasonable rates of return; (iii) further damage to Columbia of Massachusetts' reputation as a result of concerns related to service lines abandoned during the restoration work following the Greater Lawrence Incident and the gas release event in Lawrence, Massachusetts on September 27, 2019; and (iv) a potential sale of the Massachusetts Business. Consolidated Financial Statements.
See Note 19, "Other Commitments and Contingencies - C. Legal Proceedings,7, "Goodwill," in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for more information regarding Massachusetts DPU regulatory enforcement activityfurther information.
Unbilled Revenue. We record utility operating revenues when energy is delivered to our customers. However, the determination of energy sales to individual customers is based upon the reading of their meters, which occurs on a systematic basis throughout the month. At the end of each month, amounts of energy delivered to customers since the date of their last meter reading are estimated and Note 26, "Subsequent Event," in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for more information regarding the potential sale of the Massachusetts Business.
As a result, a new impairment analysis was required for our Columbia of Massachusetts reporting unit.corresponding unbilled revenues are calculated. This analysis used a weighted average of income and market approaches for calculating fair value. The income approach calculated discounted cash flows using updated cash flow projections, discountunbilled revenue is estimated each month based upon historical usage, customer rates and return on equity assumptions. The market approach applied a combinationweather. As of comparable company multiples and comparable transactions and used updated cash flow projections. While certain assumptions, such as market multiples, remained unchangedDecember 31, 2022 we recorded $453.0 million of customer accounts receivable for unbilled revenue. Significant fluctuations in energy demand for the year-end test, our cash flow projections, return on equity and rate case timing assumptions were all unfavorably updated at year-end compared to the May 1, 2019 test. The effects of these unfavorable developments were greater than the favorable change in weighted average cost of capital between the two tests. The year-end impairment analysis indicated that the fair value of the Columbia of Massachusetts reporting unit was below its carrying value. As a result, we reduced the Columbia of Massachusetts reporting unit goodwill balance to zero and recognized a goodwill impairment charge totaling $204.8 million, which is non-deductible for tax purposes.
Our intangible assets, apart from goodwill, consist of franchise rights. Franchise rights were identified as part of the purchase price allocations associated with the acquisition in February 1999 of Columbia of Massachusetts. We review our definite-lived intangible assets for impairment when eventsunbilled period or changes in circumstances indicate its fair value might be below its carrying amount.
During the fourth quartercomposition of 2019, in connection withcustomer classes could impact the preparationaccuracy of the year-end financial statements, we assessed the changes in circumstances that occurred during the quarter to determine if it was more likely than not that the fair value of the franchise rights was below its carrying amount. These factors were the same fourth quarter circumstances outlined in the goodwill impairment discussion above. As a result, we performed a year-end impairment test in which we compared the book value of Columbia of Massachusetts to its undiscounted future cash flow and estimated fair value. With this analysis, we determined that the fair value of the franchise rights was zero. Therefore, we wrote off the entire franchise rights book value, which resulted in an impairment charge totaling $209.7 million. See Note 6, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets," in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for more information.
Revenue Recognition. Revenue is recorded as products and services are delivered. Utility revenues are billed to customers monthly on a cycle basis. Revenues are recorded on the accrual basis and include estimates for electricity and gas delivered but not billed.
We adopted the provisions of ASC 606 beginning on January 1, 2018 using a modified retrospective method, which was applied to all contracts. No material adjustments were made to January 1, 2018 opening balances and no material changes in the amount or timing of futureunbilled revenue recognition occurred as a result of the adoption of ASC 606.estimate. Refer to Note 3, "Revenue Recognition," in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.Statements for additional information regarding our significant judgments and estimates related to unbilled revenue recognition.
Income Taxes. The consolidated income tax provision and deferred income tax assets and liabilities, as well as any unrecognized tax benefits and valuation allowances, require use of estimates and significant management judgement. Although we believe that current estimates for deferred tax assets and liabilities are reasonable, actual results could differ from these estimates for a variety of reasons, including reasonable projections of taxable income, the ability and intent to implement tax planning strategies if necessary, and interpretations of applicable tax laws and regulations across multiple taxing jurisdictions. Ultimate resolution or clarification of income tax matters may result in favorable or unfavorable impacts to net income and cash flows, and adjustments to tax-related assets and liabilities could be material.
We account for uncertain income tax positions using a benefit recognition model with a two-step approach including a more-likely-than-not recognition threshold and a measurement approach based on the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement. We evaluate each position based solely on the technical merits and facts and circumstances of the position, assuming the position will be examined by a taxing authority having full knowledge of all relevant information. Significant judgment is required to determine whether the recognition threshold has been met and, if so, the appropriate amount of tax benefits to be recorded in the consolidated financial statements. At December 31, 2022 we had $21.7 million of unrecognized tax benefits. Changes in these unrecognized tax benefits may result from remeasurement of amounts expected to be realized, settlements with tax authorities and expiration of statutes of limitations.
Valuation allowances against deferred tax assets are recorded when we conclude it is more likely than not such asset will not be realized in future periods. Accounting for income taxes also requires that only tax benefits for positions taken or expected to be taken on tax returns that meet the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold can be recognized or continue to be recognized. We evaluate each position solely on the technical merits and facts and circumstances of the position, assuming that the position will be examined by a taxing authority that has full knowledge of all relevant information. Significant judgment is required to determine recognition thresholds and the related amount of tax benefits to be recognized. At December 31, 2022, we had established $7.8 million of valuation allowances related to certain state NOL carryforwards. Refer to Note 11, "Income Taxes," in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
Refer to Note 2, "Recent Accounting Pronouncements," in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
ITEMItem 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
NISOURCE INC.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk are reported in Item 7.7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Market Risk Disclosures.”
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
NISOURCE INC.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the stockholdersshareholders and the Board of Directors of NiSource Inc.
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of NiSource Inc. and subsidiaries (the "Company") as of December 31, 20192022 and 2018,2021, the related statements of consolidated income (loss), comprehensive income (loss), stockholders' equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2019,2022, and the related notes and the schedule listed in the Index at Item 15 (collectively referred to as the "financial statements"). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 20192022 and 2018,2021, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2019,2022, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019,2022, based on criteria established in Internal Control -— Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated February 27, 2020,22, 2023, expressed an unqualified opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Critical Audit Matters
The critical audit mattersmatter communicated below are mattersis a matter arising from the current-period audit of the financial statements that werewas communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that (1) relaterelates to accounts or disclosures that are material to the financial statements and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters does not alter in any way our opinion on the financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit mattersmatter below, providing a separate opinionsopinion on the critical audit mattersmatter or on the accounts or disclosures to which they relate.it relates.
Impact of Rate Regulation on the Financial Statements - Refer to Notes 1 8, 19, and 269 to the consolidated financial statements
Critical Audit Matter Description
Certain subsidiaries of NiSource Inc. are fully regulated natural gas and electric utility companies serving customers in seven states. These rate-regulated subsidiaries account for and report assets and liabilities consistent with the economic effect of the manner in which regulators establish rates, if the rates established are designed to recover the costs of providing the regulated service and it is probable that such rates can be charged to and collected from customers. Certain expenses and credits subject to utility regulation or rate determination normally reflected in income are deferred on the consolidated balance sheets and are later recognized in income as the related amounts are included in customer rates and recovered from or refunded to customers.
Through December 31, 2019, the Company invested approximately $258 million of capital spend for the Greater Lawrence Incident pipeline replacement. As of December 31, 2019, the Company determined that a disallowance of the Greater Lawrence Incident pipeline replacement capital expenditures was not probable. On February 26, 2020, the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Columbia of Massachusetts (CMA), agreed to sell substantially all of CMA's utility property, plant, and equipment (including the
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
Greater Lawrence Incident pipeline replacement assets) with other specified assets and liabilities, to a third party. The Company estimates that the total pre-tax loss resulting from this sale will be approximately $360 million, based on December 31, 2019 asset and liability balances and estimated transaction costs.
We identified the accounting for rate-regulated subsidiaries as a critical audit matter due to the significant judgments made by management to support its assertions about impacted account balances and disclosures and the high degree of subjectivity involved in assessing the impact of future regulatory orders on the financial statements. Management judgments include assessing (1) the likelihood of recovery in future rates of incurred costs, (2) the likelihood of refund of amounts previously collected from customers, and (3) the probability of recovery of amounts capitalized related to the Greater Lawrence Incident pipeline replacement. Given that management’s accounting judgments are based on assumptions about the outcome of future decisions by regulatory commissions, auditing these judgments required specialized knowledge of accounting for rate regulation and the rate making process due its inherent complexities.
How the Critical Audit Matter Was Addressed in the Audit
Our audit procedures related to the uncertainty of future decisions by regulatory commissions included the following, among others:
We tested the effectiveness of management’s controls over the evaluation of the likelihood of (1) the recovery in future rates of costs incurred as property, plant, and equipment and deferred as regulatory assets, and (2) a refund or a future reduction in rates that should be reported as regulatory liabilities. We also tested the effectiveness of management’s controls over the initial recognition of amounts as property, plant, and equipment, including the Greater Lawrence Incident pipeline replacement; regulatory assets or liabilities; and the monitoring and evaluation of regulatory developments, that may affect the likelihood of recovering costs in future rates or of a future reduction in rates.
We evaluated the Company’s disclosures related to the impacts of rate regulation, including the balances recorded and regulatory developments.
We read relevant regulatory orders issued by regulatory commissions, regulatory statutes, interpretations, filings made by interveners, and other publicly available information to assess the likelihood of recovery in future rates or of a future reduction in rates based on precedence of regulatory commissions’ treatment of similar costs under similar circumstances. We evaluated the external information and compared it to management’s recorded regulatory asset and liability balances for completeness.
| |
• | For regulatory matters in process, including those that could impact the Greater Lawrence Incident pipeline replacement, we inspected the Company’s filings with regulatory commissions and the filings with regulatory commissions by intervenors for any evidence that might contradict management’s assertions related to recoverability of recorded assets.
|
We inquired of management about property, plant, and equipment that may be abandoned. We inspected minutes of meetings of the board of directors and regulatory orders and other filings with regulatory commissions to identify evidence that may contradict management’s assertion regarding probability of an abandonment.
We obtained an analysis from management regarding probability of recovery for regulatory assets or refund or future reduction in rates for regulatory liabilities not yet addressed in a regulatory order to assess management’s assertion that amounts are probable of recovery or a future reduction in rates.
We evaluated the impact of the February 26, 2020 sale transaction on the carrying value of the Company’s utility property, plant, and equipment as of December 31, 2019.
Impairment of the Franchise Rights Intangible Asset & the Columbia of Massachusetts Reporting Unit Goodwill - Refer to Note 6 to the financial statements
Critical Audit Matter Description
The Company assessedCompany’s subsidiaries are fully regulated natural gas and electric utility companies serving customers in six states. These rate-regulated subsidiaries account for and report assets and liabilities consistent with the changes in circumstances that occurred during the fourth quarter to determine whether it was more likely than not that the fair valueseconomic effect of the long-lived assets (includingmanner in which regulators establish rates, if the franchise rights intangible asset)rates established are designed to recover the costs of providing the regulated service and goodwill of Columbia of Massachusetts (CMA), a wholly-owned subsidiaryit is probable that such rates can be charged to and collected from customers. Certain expenses and credits subject to utility regulation or rate determination normally reflected in income are deferred on the consolidated balance sheets and are later recognized in income as the related amounts are included in customer rates and recovered from or refunded to customers.
The Company’s subsidiaries’ rates are subject to regulatory rate-setting processes. Rates are determined and approved in regulatory proceedings based on an analysis of the Company, were below their carrying amount. The totality of several factors ledsubsidiaries’ costs to the Company concluding that it was more likely than not that the fair valueprovide utility service and a return on, and recovery of, the CMA reporting unitsubsidiaries’ investment in the utility business. Regulatory decisions can have an impact on the recovery of costs, the rate of return earned on investment, and the valuetiming and amount of CMA’s long-lived assets were below their carrying values. These factors included: (1) increased Massachusetts Departmentto be recovered by rates. The respective commission’s regulation of Public Utilities (DPU) regulatory enforcement activity related to CMA, including (i) an order imposing work restrictionsrates is premised on CMA, (ii) two orders opening public investigations into CMA related to the Greater Lawrence Incidentfull recovery of prudently incurred costs and restoration efforts following the incident, and (iii) an order defining the scopea reasonable rate of the DPU’s investigation into the preparation and response of CMA related to the incident; (2) increased uncertainty as to the ability of CMA to execute its growth strategy, including utility infrastructure
return on invested
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
investments,capital. Decisions to be made by the commission in the future will impact the accounting for regulated operations, including decisions about the amount of allowable costs and CMA’s abilityreturn on invested capital included in rates and any refunds that may be required. While the Company has indicated it expects to obtain timely regulatory outcomes with reasonablerecover costs from customers through regulated rates, of return; (3) further damage to CMA’s reputation; and (4)there is a risk that the potential salecommission will not approve: (1) full recovery of the Company'scosts of providing utility service, or (2) full recovery of all amounts invested in the utility business in Massachusetts.
The Company performedand a long-lived asset impairment test as of December 31, 2019 in which it compared the book value of the CMA asset group to its undiscounted future cash flows and determinedreasonable return on that the carrying value of the asset group was not recoverable. The Company estimated the fair value of the CMA asset group using a weighting of income and market approaches and determined that the fair value was less than the carrying value. The resulting impairment loss was allocated to reduce the recorded franchise rights intangible asset to its fair value of zero, which resulted in an impairment charge totaling $209.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2019. The Company also performed a goodwill impairment test for the CMA reporting unit as of December 31, 2019. As part of this test, the Company estimated CMA’s fair value based on a weighting of income and market approaches. This impairment analysis indicated that the fair value of the CMA reporting unit was below its carrying value and, as a result, the Company recognized a goodwill impairment charge totaling $204.8 million.investment.
We identified the impairment of the franchise rights intangible asset and the CMA reporting unit goodwillaccounting for rate-regulated subsidiaries as a critical audit matter as there was adue to the significant judgments made by management to support its assertions about impacted account balances and disclosures and the high degree of auditor judgmentsubjectivity involved in assessing the impact of future regulatory orders on the financial statements. Management judgments include assessing the likelihood of (1) recovery in future rates of incurred costs and subjectivity in applying procedures relating to(2) refunds of amounts previously collected from customers. Given that management’s accounting judgments are based on assumptions about the allocationoutcome of impairment to CMA’s long-lived assetsfuture decisions by regulatory commissions, auditing these judgments required specialized knowledge of accounting for rate regulation and the fair value measurement of the reporting unit. This was driven by significant management judgment when determining fair value, including (1) the weightings of the fair value approaches, (2) the future cash flows used in the impairment tests, and (3) other inputs used in the valuation including comparable company multiples, discount rates, and return on equity. In addition, the audit effort involved the use of fair value specialistsrate making process due to assist in performing audit procedures over these assumptions and evaluating the audit evidence obtained.its inherent complexities.
How the Critical Audit Matter Was Addressed in the Audit
Our audit procedures related to the impairmentuncertainty of CMA’s franchise rights intangible assetfuture decisions by the commissions focused on the ongoing Columbia Gas of Ohio base rate case and CMA reporting unit goodwillthe Northern Indiana Public Service Company electric base rate case proceedings and included the following, among others:
•We tested the effectiveness of management’s controls over the impairments, including (1) validation of the assumptions included in the impairment analysis for both the franchise rights intangible asset and goodwill, (2) the evaluation of the methodology usedlikelihood of (1) the recovery in determiningfuture rates of costs incurred as property, plant, and equipment and deferred as regulatory assets, and (2) a refund or a future reduction in rates that should be reported as regulatory liabilities. We also tested the magnitudeeffectiveness of impairment chargesmanagement’s controls over the initial recognition of amounts as of December 31, 2019,property, plant, and (3) the verification of the completeness and accuracy of the journal entry made to record the impairmentsequipment; regulatory assets or liabilities; and the related disclosures.monitoring and evaluation of regulatory developments, that may affect the likelihood of recovering costs in future rates or of a future reduction in rates.
We evaluated the inputs used in the franchise rights intangible asset and goodwill impairment tests, including cash flow projections, scenario analysis, discount rates, return on equity assumptions, and comparable company multiples.
We compared the undiscounted cash flows used in the franchise rights intangible asset impairment test to the carrying value of the asset group to evaluate whether an impairment existed at December 31, 2019.
With the assistance of our fair value specialists, we evaluated the reasonableness of the calculated amount of fair value of the franchise rights intangible asset.
We evaluated the allocation of impairment to the franchise rights intangible asset.
We evaluated the relative weightings of the income and market approaches used to estimate fair value for the purposes of the goodwill impairment test.
We evaluated the reasonableness of the fair value calculated under the combination of income and market approaches by comparing it to the fair value used in the May 1, 2019 goodwill impairment test.
•We evaluated the Company’s disclosures related to the impairment charges.impacts of rate regulation, including the balances recorded and regulatory developments.
• We read relevant regulatory orders issued by the commissions for the Company, regulatory statutes, interpretations, procedural memorandums, filings made by interveners, and other publicly available information to assess the likelihood of recovery in future rates or of a future reduction in rates based on precedents of the commissions’ treatment of similar costs under similar circumstances. We evaluated the external information and compared to management’s recorded regulatory asset and liability balances for completeness.
• For regulatory matters in process, we inspected the Company’s and intervenors’ filings with the commissions that may impact the Company’s future rates, for any evidence that might contradict management’s assertions related to recoverability of recorded assets. Additionally, we evaluated the joint stipulation filed by Columbia Gas of Ohio with the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio.
• We inquired of management about property, plant, and equipment that may be abandoned with an emphasis on the generation strategy related to Northern Indiana Public Service Company’s R.M. Schahfer and Michigan City Generating Stations. We inspected minutes of the board of directors and regulatory orders and other filings with the commissions to identify evidence that may contradict management’s assertion regarding probability of an abandonment.
• We read the relevant regulatory orders issued by the Commission for the Company’s renewable energy investments. We evaluated the appropriateness of recognizing a regulatory liability or asset representing timing differences between the profit allocated under the Hypothetical Liquidation at Book Value (HLBV) method related to the consolidated joint ventures and the allowed earnings included in regulatory rates. We also evaluated the appropriateness of the offset to the regulatory liability or asset recorded in depreciation expense.
• We evaluated the Company’s disclosures related to the application of ASC Topic 980 to consolidated joint venture accounting.
/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
Columbus, Ohio
February 27, 202022, 2023
We have served as the Company's auditor since 2002.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED INCOME (LOSS)
| | Year Ended December 31, (in millions, except per share amounts) | 2019 | | 2018 | | 2017 | Year Ended December 31, (in millions, except per share amounts) | 2022 | | 2021 | | 2020 |
Operating Revenues | | | | | | Operating Revenues | |
Customer revenues | $ | 5,053.4 |
| | $ | 4,991.1 |
| | $ | 4,730.2 |
| Customer revenues | $ | 5,738.6 | | | $ | 4,731.3 | | | $ | 4,473.2 | |
Other revenues | 155.5 |
| | 123.4 |
| | 144.4 |
| Other revenues | 112.0 | | | 168.3 | | | 208.5 | |
Total Operating Revenues | 5,208.9 |
| | 5,114.5 |
| | 4,874.6 |
| Total Operating Revenues | 5,850.6 | | | 4,899.6 | | | 4,681.7 | |
Operating Expenses | | | | | | Operating Expenses | |
Cost of sales (excluding depreciation and amortization) | 1,534.8 |
| | 1,761.3 |
| | 1,518.7 |
| |
Cost of energy | | Cost of energy | 2,110.5 | | | 1,392.3 | | | 1,109.3 | |
Operation and maintenance | 1,354.7 |
| | 2,352.9 |
| | 1,601.7 |
| Operation and maintenance | 1,489.4 | | | 1,456.0 | | | 1,585.9 | |
Depreciation and amortization | 717.4 |
| | 599.6 |
| | 570.3 |
| Depreciation and amortization | 820.8 | | | 748.4 | | | 725.9 | |
Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets | 414.5 |
| | — |
| | — |
| |
Loss on sale of fixed assets and impairments, net | — |
| | 1.2 |
| | 5.5 |
| |
| Loss (gain) on sale of assets, net | | Loss (gain) on sale of assets, net | (104.2) | | | 7.7 | | | 410.6 | |
Other taxes | 296.8 |
| | 274.8 |
| | 257.2 |
| Other taxes | 268.3 | | | 288.3 | | | 299.2 | |
Total Operating Expenses | 4,318.2 |
| | 4,989.8 |
| | 3,953.4 |
| Total Operating Expenses | 4,584.8 | | | 3,892.7 | | | 4,130.9 | |
| Operating Income | 890.7 |
| | 124.7 |
| | 921.2 |
| Operating Income | 1,265.8 | | | 1,006.9 | | | 550.8 | |
Other Income (Deductions) | | | | | | Other Income (Deductions) | |
Interest expense, net | (378.9 | ) | | (353.3 | ) | | (353.2 | ) | Interest expense, net | (361.6) | | | (341.1) | | | (370.7) | |
Other, net | (5.2 | ) | | 43.5 |
| | (13.5 | ) | Other, net | 52.2 | | | 40.8 | | | 32.1 | |
Loss on early extinguishment of long-term debt | — |
| | (45.5 | ) | | (111.5 | ) | Loss on early extinguishment of long-term debt | — | | | — | | | (243.5) | |
Total Other Deductions, Net | (384.1 | ) | | (355.3 | ) | | (478.2 | ) | Total Other Deductions, Net | (309.4) | | | (300.3) | | | (582.1) | |
Income (Loss) before Income Taxes | 506.6 |
| | (230.6 | ) | | 443.0 |
| Income (Loss) before Income Taxes | 956.4 | | | 706.6 | | | (31.3) | |
Income Taxes | 123.5 |
| | (180.0 | ) | | 314.5 |
| Income Taxes | 164.6 | | | 117.8 | | | (17.1) | |
| Net Income (Loss) | 383.1 |
| | (50.6 | ) | | 128.5 |
| Net Income (Loss) | 791.8 | | | 588.8 | | | (14.2) | |
Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest | | Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest | (12.3) | | | 3.9 | | | 3.4 | |
Net Income (Loss) attributable to NiSource | | Net Income (Loss) attributable to NiSource | 804.1 | | | 584.9 | | | (17.6) | |
Preferred dividends | (55.1 | ) | | (15.0 | ) | | — |
| Preferred dividends | (55.1) | | | (55.1) | | | (55.1) | |
| Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Shareholders
| 328.0 |
| | (65.6 | ) | | 128.5 |
| Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Shareholders | 749.0 | | | 529.8 | | | (72.7) | |
| Earnings (Loss) Per Share | | | | | | Earnings (Loss) Per Share | |
| Basic Earnings (Loss) Per Share | $ | 0.88 |
| | $ | (0.18 | ) | | $ | 0.39 |
| Basic Earnings (Loss) Per Share | $ | 1.84 | | | $ | 1.35 | | | $ | (0.19) | |
| Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Share | $ | 0.87 |
| | $ | (0.18 | ) | | $ | 0.39 |
| Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Share | $ | 1.70 | | | $ | 1.27 | | | $ | (0.19) | |
| Basic Average Common Shares Outstanding | 374.6 |
| | 356.5 |
| | 329.4 |
| Basic Average Common Shares Outstanding | 407.1 | | | 393.6 | | | 384.3 | |
Diluted Average Common Shares | 376.0 |
| | 356.5 |
| | 330.8 |
| Diluted Average Common Shares | 442.7 | | | 417.3 | | | 384.3 | |
The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
| | Year Ended December 31, (in millions, net of taxes) | 2019 | | 2018 | | 2017 | Year Ended December 31, (in millions, net of taxes) | 2022 | | 2021 | | 2020 |
Net Income (Loss) | $ | 383.1 |
| | $ | (50.6 | ) | | $ | 128.5 |
| Net Income (Loss) | $ | 791.8 | | | $ | 588.8 | | | $ | (14.2) | |
Other comprehensive income (loss): | | | | | | Other comprehensive income (loss): | |
Net unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities(1) | 5.7 |
| | (2.6 | ) | | 0.8 |
| Net unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities(1) | (13.3) | | | (3.9) | | | 2.7 | |
Net unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedges(2) | (64.2 | ) | | 22.7 |
| | (22.5 | ) | Net unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedges(2) | 109.9 | | | 25.4 | | | (70.7) | |
Unrecognized pension and OPEB benefit (costs)(3) | 3.1 |
| | (4.4 | ) | | 3.4 |
| Unrecognized pension and OPEB benefit (costs)(3) | (6.9) | | | 8.4 | | | 3.9 | |
Total other comprehensive income (loss) | (55.4 | ) | | 15.7 |
| | (18.3 | ) | Total other comprehensive income (loss) | 89.7 | | | 29.9 | | | (64.1) | |
Total Comprehensive Income (Loss) | $ | 327.7 |
| | $ | (34.9 | ) | | $ | 110.2 |
| Total Comprehensive Income (Loss) | $ | 881.5 | | | $ | 618.7 | | | $ | (78.3) | |
|
(1) Net unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities, net of $1.5$3.5 million tax expense, $0.6benefit, $1.0 million tax benefit and $0.4$0.7 million tax expense in 2019, 20182022, 2021 and 2017,2020, respectively.
(2) Net unrealized gain (loss) on derivatives qualifying as cash flow hedges, net of $21.2$36.4 million tax benefit, $7.5expense, $8.4 million tax expense and $13.9$23.4 million tax benefit in 2019, 20182022, 2021 and 2017,2020, respectively.
(3) Unrecognized pension and OPEB benefit (costs), net of $1.6$2.3 million tax benefit, $3.8 million tax expense $1.5and $0.1 million tax benefit in 2022, 2021 and $2.1 million tax expense in 2019, 2018 and 2017,2020, respectively.
The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
| | | | | | | | | | | |
(in millions) | December 31, 2022 | | December 31, 2021 |
ASSETS | | | |
Property, Plant and Equipment | | | |
Plant | $ | 27,551.3 | | | $ | 25,171.3 | |
Accumulated depreciation and amortization | (7,708.7) | | | (7,289.5) | |
| | | |
| | | |
Net Property, Plant and Equipment(1) | 19,842.6 | | | 17,881.8 | |
Investments and Other Assets | | | |
Unconsolidated affiliates | 1.6 | | | 0.8 | |
Available-for-sale debt securities (amortized cost of $166.7 and $169.3, allowance for credit losses of $0.9 and $0.2, respectively) | 151.6 | | | 171.8 | |
Other investments | 71.0 | | | 87.1 | |
Total Investments and Other Assets | 224.2 | | | 259.7 | |
Current Assets | | | |
Cash and cash equivalents | 40.8 | | | 84.2 | |
Restricted cash | 34.6 | | | 10.7 | |
Accounts receivable | 1,065.8 | | | 849.1 | |
Allowance for credit losses | (23.9) | | | (23.5) | |
Accounts receivable, net | 1,041.9 | | | 825.6 | |
Gas inventory | 531.7 | | | 327.4 | |
Materials and supplies, at average cost | 151.4 | | | 139.1 | |
Electric production fuel, at average cost | 68.8 | | | 32.2 | |
| | | |
Exchange gas receivable | 128.1 | | | 99.6 | |
| | | |
Regulatory assets | 233.2 | | | 206.2 | |
| | | |
| | | |
Deposits to renewable generation asset developer | 143.8 | | | — | |
Prepayments and other | 210.0 | | | 195.8 | |
Total Current Assets(1) | 2,584.3 | | | 1,920.8 | |
Other Assets | | | |
| | | |
Regulatory assets | 2,347.6 | | | 2,286.0 | |
Goodwill | 1,485.9 | | | 1,485.9 | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
Deferred charges and other | 252.0 | | | 322.7 | |
Total Other Assets | 4,085.5 | | | 4,094.6 | |
Total Assets | $ | 26,736.6 | | | $ | 24,156.9 | |
|
| | | | | | | |
(in millions) | December 31, 2019 | | December 31, 2018 |
ASSETS | | | |
Property, Plant and Equipment | | | |
Utility plant | $ | 24,502.6 |
| | $ | 22,780.8 |
|
Accumulated depreciation and amortization | (7,609.3 | ) | | (7,257.9 | ) |
Net utility plant | 16,893.3 |
| | 15,522.9 |
|
Other property, at cost, less accumulated depreciation | 18.9 |
| | 19.6 |
|
Net Property, Plant and Equipment | 16,912.2 |
| | 15,542.5 |
|
Investments and Other Assets | | | |
Unconsolidated affiliates | 1.3 |
| | 2.1 |
|
Other investments | 228.9 |
| | 204.0 |
|
Total Investments and Other Assets | 230.2 |
| | 206.1 |
|
Current Assets | | | |
Cash and cash equivalents | 139.3 |
| | 112.8 |
|
Restricted cash | 9.1 |
| | 8.3 |
|
Accounts receivable (less reserve of $19.2 and $21.1, respectively) | 856.9 |
| | 1,058.5 |
|
Gas inventory | 250.9 |
| | 286.8 |
|
Materials and supplies, at average cost | 120.2 |
| | 101.0 |
|
Electric production fuel, at average cost | 53.6 |
| | 34.7 |
|
Exchange gas receivable | 48.5 |
| | 88.4 |
|
Regulatory assets | 225.7 |
| | 235.4 |
|
Prepayments and other | 149.7 |
| | 129.5 |
|
Total Current Assets | 1,853.9 |
| | 2,055.4 |
|
Other Assets | | | |
Regulatory assets | 2,013.9 |
| | 2,002.1 |
|
Goodwill | 1,485.9 |
| | 1,690.7 |
|
Intangible assets, net | — |
| | 220.7 |
|
Deferred charges and other | 163.7 |
| | 86.5 |
|
Total Other Assets | 3,663.5 |
| | 4,000.0 |
|
Total Assets | $ | 22,659.8 |
| | $ | 21,804.0 |
|
(1)Includes $978.5 million and $695.9 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively, of net property, plant and equipment assets and $25.7 million and $14.3 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively, of current assets of consolidated VIEs that may be used only to settle obligations of the consolidated VIEs. Refer to Note 4, "Variable Interest Entities," for additional information.The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
| | | | | | | | | | | |
(in millions, except share amounts) | December 31, 2022 | | December 31, 2021 |
CAPITALIZATION AND LIABILITIES | | | |
Capitalization | | | |
Stockholders’ Equity | | | |
Common stock - $0.01 par value, 600,000,000 shares authorized; 412,142,602 and 405,303,023 shares outstanding, respectively | $ | 4.2 | | | $ | 4.1 | |
Preferred stock - $0.01 par value, 20,000,000 shares authorized; 1,302,500 and 1,302,500 shares outstanding, respectively | 1,546.5 | | | 1,546.5 | |
Treasury stock | (99.9) | | | (99.9) | |
Additional paid-in capital | 7,375.3 | | | 7,204.3 | |
Retained deficit | (1,213.6) | | | (1,580.9) | |
Accumulated other comprehensive loss | (37.1) | | | (126.8) | |
Total NiSource Stockholders' Equity | 7,575.4 | | | 6,947.3 | |
Noncontrolling interest in consolidated subsidiaries | 326.4 | | | 325.6 | |
Total Stockholders’ Equity | 7,901.8 | | | 7,272.9 | |
Long-term debt, excluding amounts due within one year | 9,523.6 | | | 9,183.4 | |
Total Capitalization | 17,425.4 | | | 16,456.3 | |
Current Liabilities | | | |
Current portion of long-term debt | 30.0 | | | 58.1 | |
Short-term borrowings | 1,761.9 | | | 560.0 | |
Accounts payable | 899.5 | | | 697.8 | |
| | | |
Customer deposits and credits | 324.7 | | | 237.9 | |
Taxes accrued | 246.2 | | | 277.1 | |
Interest accrued | 138.4 | | | 105.5 | |
| | | |
Exchange gas payable | 147.6 | | | 107.7 | |
| | | |
Regulatory liabilities | 236.8 | | | 137.4 | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
Accrued compensation and employee benefits | 167.5 | | | 182.7 | |
| | | |
Obligations to renewable generation asset developer | 347.2 | | | — | |
Other accruals | 360.7 | | | 382.0 | |
Total Current Liabilities(1) | 4,660.5 | | | 2,746.2 | |
Other Liabilities | | | |
| | | |
Deferred income taxes | 1,854.5 | | | 1,659.4 | |
| | | |
| | | |
Accrued liability for postretirement and postemployment benefits | 245.5 | | | 292.5 | |
| | | |
Regulatory liabilities | 1,775.8 | | | 1,842.6 | |
Asset retirement obligations | 478.1 | | | 469.7 | |
| | | |
Other noncurrent liabilities and deferred credits | 296.8 | | | 690.2 | |
Total Other Liabilities(1) | 4,650.7 | | | 4,954.4 | |
Commitments and Contingencies (Refer to Note 19, "Other Commitments and Contingencies") | | | |
Total Capitalization and Liabilities | $ | 26,736.6 | | | $ | 24,156.9 | |
|
| | | | | | | |
(in millions, except share amounts) | December 31, 2019 | | December 31, 2018 |
CAPITALIZATION AND LIABILITIES | | | |
Capitalization | | | |
Stockholders’ Equity | | | |
Common stock - $0.01 par value, 600,000,000 shares authorized; 382,135,680 and 372,363,656 shares outstanding, respectively | $ | 3.8 |
| | $ | 3.8 |
|
Preferred stock - $0.01 par value, 20,000,000 shares authorized; 440,000 and 420,000 shares outstanding, respectively | 880.0 |
| | 880.0 |
|
Treasury stock | (99.9 | ) | | (99.9 | ) |
Additional paid-in capital | 6,666.2 |
| | 6,403.5 |
|
Retained deficit | (1,370.8 | ) | | (1,399.3 | ) |
Accumulated other comprehensive loss | (92.6 | ) | | (37.2 | ) |
Total Stockholders’ Equity | 5,986.7 |
| | 5,750.9 |
|
Long-term debt, excluding amounts due within one year | 7,856.2 |
| | 7,105.4 |
|
Total Capitalization | 13,842.9 |
| | 12,856.3 |
|
Current Liabilities | | | |
Current portion of long-term debt | 13.4 |
| | 50.0 |
|
Short-term borrowings | 1,773.2 |
| | 1,977.2 |
|
Accounts payable | 666.0 |
| | 883.8 |
|
Customer deposits and credits | 256.4 |
| | 238.9 |
|
Taxes accrued | 231.6 |
| | 222.7 |
|
Interest accrued | 99.4 |
| | 90.7 |
|
Exchange gas payable | 59.7 |
| | 85.5 |
|
Regulatory liabilities | 160.2 |
| | 140.9 |
|
Legal and environmental | 20.1 |
| | 18.9 |
|
Accrued compensation and employee benefits | 156.3 |
| | 149.7 |
|
Claims accrued | 165.4 |
| | 114.7 |
|
Other accruals | 144.1 |
| | 63.8 |
|
Total Current Liabilities | 3,745.8 |
| | 4,036.8 |
|
Other Liabilities | | | |
Risk management liabilities | 134.0 |
| | 46.7 |
|
Deferred income taxes | 1,485.3 |
| | 1,330.5 |
|
Deferred investment tax credits | 9.7 |
| | 11.2 |
|
Accrued insurance liabilities | 81.5 |
| | 84.4 |
|
Accrued liability for postretirement and postemployment benefits | 373.2 |
| | 389.1 |
|
Regulatory liabilities | 2,352.0 |
| | 2,519.1 |
|
Asset retirement obligations | 416.9 |
| | 352.0 |
|
Other noncurrent liabilities | 218.5 |
| | 177.9 |
|
Total Other Liabilities | 5,071.1 |
| | 4,910.9 |
|
Commitments and Contingencies (Refer to Note 19, "Other Commitments and Contingencies") | — |
| | — |
|
Total Capitalization and Liabilities | $ | 22,659.8 |
| | $ | 21,804.0 |
|
(1)Includes $128.2 million and $10.0 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively, of current liabilities and $30.6 million and $20.5 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively, of other liabilities of consolidated VIEs that creditors do not have recourse to our general credit. Refer to Note 4, "Variable Interest Entities," for additional information.The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOWS
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
|
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Year Ended December 31, (in millions) | 2019 | | 2018 | | 2017 |
Operating Activities | | | | | |
Net Income (Loss) | $ | 383.1 |
| | $ | (50.6 | ) | | $ | 128.5 |
|
Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Net Cash from Operating Activities: | | | | | |
Loss on early extinguishment of debt | — |
| | 45.5 |
| | 111.5 |
|
Depreciation and amortization | 717.4 |
| | 599.6 |
| | 570.3 |
|
Deferred income taxes and investment tax credits | 118.2 |
| | (188.2 | ) | | 306.7 |
|
Stock compensation expense and 401(k) profit sharing contribution | 25.9 |
| | 28.6 |
| | 40.1 |
|
Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets | 414.5 |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Amortization of discount/premium on debt | 8.2 |
| | 7.5 |
| | 7.4 |
|
AFUDC equity | (8.0 | ) | | (14.2 | ) | | (12.6 | ) |
Other adjustments | (0.9 | ) | | 1.7 |
| | 6.6 |
|
Changes in Assets and Liabilities: | | | | | |
Accounts receivable | 187.8 |
| | (186.2 | ) | | (52.3 | ) |
Inventories | (2.0 | ) | | 41.4 |
| | 19.0 |
|
Accounts payable | (299.9 | ) | | 268.4 |
| | 49.0 |
|
Customer deposits and credits | 16.9 |
| | (25.4 | ) | | (2.5 | ) |
Taxes accrued | 7.3 |
| | 20.2 |
| | 10.2 |
|
Interest accrued | 8.8 |
| | (21.7 | ) | | (33.9 | ) |
Exchange gas receivable/payable | 55.5 |
| | (21.5 | ) | | (64.5 | ) |
Other accruals | 105.3 |
| | 43.5 |
| | 31.8 |
|
Prepayments and other current assets | (33.6 | ) | | (14.5 | ) | | (13.3 | ) |
Regulatory assets/liabilities | (85.6 | ) | | (53.2 | ) | | 57.5 |
|
Postretirement and postemployment benefits | (21.1 | ) | | 58.2 |
| | (380.9 | ) |
Deferred charges and other noncurrent assets | (76.1 | ) | | 3.8 |
| | (2.0 | ) |
Other noncurrent liabilities | 61.6 |
| | (2.8 | ) | | (34.4 | ) |
Net Cash Flows from Operating Activities | 1,583.3 |
| | 540.1 |
| | 742.2 |
|
Investing Activities | | | | | |
Capital expenditures | (1,802.4 | ) | | (1,818.2 | ) | | (1,695.8 | ) |
Cost of removal | (113.2 | ) | | (104.3 | ) | | (109.0 | ) |
Purchases of available-for-sale securities | (140.4 | ) | | (90.0 | ) | | (168.4 | ) |
Sales of available-for-sale securities | 132.1 |
| | 82.3 |
| | 163.1 |
|
Other investing activities | 1.5 |
| | 4.1 |
| | 1.6 |
|
Net Cash Flows used for Investing Activities | (1,922.4 | ) | | (1,926.1 | ) | | (1,808.5 | ) |
Financing Activities | | | | | |
Issuance of long-term debt | 750.0 |
| | 350.0 |
| | 3,250.0 |
|
Repayments of long-term debt and finance lease obligations | (51.6 | ) | | (1,046.1 | ) | | (1,855.0 | ) |
Issuance of short-term debt (maturity > 90 days) | 600.0 |
| | 950.0 |
| | — |
|
Repayment of short-term debt (maturity > 90 days)
| (700.0 | ) | | — |
| | — |
|
Change in short-term borrowings, net (maturity ≤ 90 days) | (104.0 | ) | | (178.5 | ) | | (282.4 | ) |
Issuance of common stock, net of issuance costs | 244.4 |
| | 848.2 |
| | 336.7 |
|
Issuance of preferred stock, net of issuance costs | — |
| | 880.0 |
| | — |
|
Equity costs, premiums and other debt related costs | (17.8 | ) | | (46.0 | ) | | (144.3 | ) |
Acquisition of treasury stock | — |
| | (4.0 | ) | | (7.2 | ) |
Dividends paid - common stock | (298.5 | ) | | (273.3 | ) | | (229.1 | ) |
Dividends paid - preferred stock | (56.1 | ) | | (11.6 | ) | | — |
|
Net Cash Flows from Financing Activities | 366.4 |
| | 1,468.7 |
| | 1,068.7 |
|
Change in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash | 27.3 |
| | 82.7 |
| | 2.4 |
|
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of period | 121.1 |
| | 38.4 |
| | 36.0 |
|
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash at End of Period | $ | 148.4 |
| | $ | 121.1 |
| | $ | 38.4 |
|
The accompanyingRefer to Note 2, "Recent Accounting Pronouncements," in the Notes to Consolidated Financial StatementsStatements.
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk are an integral partreported in Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of these statements.
Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Market Risk Disclosures.”
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(in millions) | Common Stock | | Preferred Stock(1) | | Treasury Stock | | Additional Paid-In Capital | | Retained Deficit | | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss | | Total |
Balance as of January 1, 2017 | $ | 3.3 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | (88.7 | ) | | $ | 5,153.9 |
| | $ | (972.2 | ) | | $ | (25.1 | ) | | $ | 4,071.2 |
|
Comprehensive Income: | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net Income | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 128.5 |
| | — |
| | 128.5 |
|
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | (18.3 | ) | | (18.3 | ) |
Common stock dividends ($0.70 per share) | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | (229.4 | ) | | — |
| | (229.4 | ) |
Treasury stock acquired | — |
| | — |
| | (7.2 | ) | | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | (7.2 | ) |
Stock issuances: | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Employee stock purchase plan | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 5.0 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 5.0 |
|
Long-term incentive plan | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 14.9 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 14.9 |
|
401(k) and profit sharing | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 34.3 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 34.3 |
|
Dividend reinvestment plan | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 6.4 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 6.4 |
|
ATM Program | 0.1 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 314.6 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 314.7 |
|
Balance as of December 31, 2017 | $ | 3.4 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | (95.9 | ) | | $ | 5,529.1 |
| | $ | (1,073.1 | ) | | $ | (43.4 | ) | | $ | 4,320.1 |
|
Comprehensive Loss: | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net Loss | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | (50.6 | ) | | — |
| | (50.6 | ) |
Other comprehensive income, net of tax | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 15.7 |
| | 15.7 |
|
Dividends | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Common stock ($0.78 per share) | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | (273.5 | ) | | — |
| | (273.5 | ) |
Preferred stock ($28.88 per share) | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | (11.6 | ) | | — |
| | (11.6 | ) |
Treasury stock acquired | — |
| | — |
| | (4.0 | ) | | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | (4.0 | ) |
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 9.5 |
| | (9.5 | ) | | — |
|
Stock issuances: | | | | | | | | | | | | |
|
|
Common stock - private placement | 0.3 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 599.3 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 599.6 |
|
Preferred stock | — |
| | 880.0 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 880.0 |
|
Employee stock purchase plan | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 5.5 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 5.5 |
|
Long-term incentive plan | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 15.4 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 15.4 |
|
401(k) and profit sharing | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 21.8 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 21.8 |
|
ATM Program | 0.1 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 232.4 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 232.5 |
|
Balance as of December 31, 2018 | $ | 3.8 |
| | $ | 880.0 |
| | $ | (99.9 | ) | | $ | 6,403.5 |
| | $ | (1,399.3 | ) | | $ | (37.2 | ) | | $ | 5,750.9 |
|
Comprehensive Income: | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net Income | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 383.1 |
| | — |
| | 383.1 |
|
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | (55.4 | ) | | (55.4 | ) |
Dividends: | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Common stock ($0.80 per share) | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | (298.5 | ) | | — |
| | (298.5 | ) |
Preferred stock (See Note 12) | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | (56.1 | ) | | — |
| | (56.1 | ) |
Stock issuances: | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Employee stock purchase plan | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 5.6 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 5.6 |
|
Long-term incentive plan | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 10.4 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 10.4 |
|
401(k) and profit sharing | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 17.6 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 17.6 |
|
ATM program | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 229.1 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 229.1 |
|
Balance as of December 31, 2019 | $ | 3.8 |
| | $ | 880.0 |
| | $ | (99.9 | ) | | $ | 6,666.2 |
| | $ | (1,370.8 | ) | | $ | (92.6 | ) | | $ | 5,986.7 |
|
(1)Series A and Series B shares have an aggregate liquidation preference of $400M and $500M, respectively. See Note 12, "Equity" for additional information.
The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
STATEMENTSREPORT OF CONSOLIDATED STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the shareholders and the Board of Directors of NiSource Inc.
Opinion on the Financial Statements
|
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Preferred | | Common |
(in thousands) | Shares | | Shares | | Treasury | | Outstanding |
Balance as of January 1, 2017 | — |
| | 326,664 |
| | (3,504 | ) | | 323,160 |
|
Treasury stock acquired | — |
| | — |
| | (293 | ) | | (293 | ) |
Issued: | | | | | | | |
Employee stock purchase plan | — |
| | 207 |
| | — |
| | 207 |
|
Long-term incentive plan | — |
| | 351 |
| | — |
| | 351 |
|
401(k) and profit sharing plan | — |
| | 1,396 |
| | — |
| | 1,396 |
|
Dividend reinvestment plan | — |
| | 264 |
| | — |
| | 264 |
|
ATM program | — |
| | 11,931 |
| | — |
| | 11,931 |
|
Balance as of December 31, 2017 | — |
| | 340,813 |
| | (3,797 | ) | | 337,016 |
|
Treasury stock acquired | — |
| | — |
| | (166 | ) | | (166 | ) |
Issued: | | | | | | | |
Common stock - private placement | — |
| | 24,964 |
| | — |
| | 24,964 |
|
Preferred stock | 420 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Employee stock purchase plan | — |
| | 223 |
| | — |
| | 223 |
|
Long-term incentive plan | — |
| | 561 |
| | — |
| | 561 |
|
401(k) and profit sharing plan | — |
| | 882 |
| | — |
| | 882 |
|
ATM Program | — |
| | 8,883 |
| | — |
| | 8,883 |
|
Balance as of December 31, 2018 | 420 |
| | 376,326 |
| | (3,963 | ) | | 372,363 |
|
Issued: | | | | | | | |
Preferred stock(1) | 20 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Employee stock purchase plan | — |
| | 201 |
| | — |
| | 201 |
|
Long-term incentive plan | — |
| | 518 |
| | — |
| | 518 |
|
401(k) and profit sharing plan | — |
| | 631 |
| | — |
| | 631 |
|
ATM program | — |
| | 8,423 |
| | — |
| | 8,423 |
|
Balance as of December 31, 2019 | 440 |
| | 386,099 |
| | (3,963 | ) | | 382,136 |
|
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of NiSource Inc. and subsidiaries (the "Company") as of December 31, 2022 and 2021, the related statements of consolidated income (loss), comprehensive income (loss), stockholders' equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2022, and the related notes and the schedule listed in the Index at Item 15 (collectively referred to as the "financial statements"). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2022 and 2021, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2022, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2022, based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated February 22, 2023, expressed an unqualified opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting.
Basis for Opinion
(1)See Note 12, "Equity,"These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for additional information.our opinion.
Critical Audit Matters
Accompanying NotesThe critical audit matter communicated below is a matter arising from the current-period audit of the financial statements that was communicated or required to Consolidatedbe communicated to the audit committee and that (1) relates to accounts or disclosures that are material to the financial statements and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters does not alter in any way our opinion on the financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matter below, providing a separate opinion on the critical audit matter or on the accounts or disclosures to which it relates.
Impact of Rate Regulation on the Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.- Refer to Notes 1 and 9 to the consolidated financial statements
Critical Audit Matter Description
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
1. Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
A. Company Structure and Principles of Consolidation. We are an energy holding company incorporated in Delaware and headquartered in Merrillville, Indiana. OurThe Company’s subsidiaries are fully regulated natural gas and electric utility companies serving approximately 4.0 million customers in sevensix states. We generate substantially all of our operating income through theseThese rate-regulated businesses. The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of us and our majority-owned subsidiaries after the elimination of all intercompany accounts and transactions.
On February 26, 2020, NiSource and Columbia of Massachusetts entered into the Asset Purchase Agreement with Eversource, a Massachusetts voluntary association. Upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Asset Purchase Agreement, NiSource and Columbia of Massachusetts agreed to sell to Eversource, with certain additions and exceptions, (1) substantially all of the assets of Columbia of Massachusetts and (2) all of the assets held by any of Columbia of Massachusetts’ affiliates that primarily relate to the business of storing, distributing or transporting natural gas to residential, commercial and industrial customers in Massachusetts, as conducted by Columbia of Massachusetts, and Eversource agreed to assume certain liabilities of Columbia of Massachusetts and its affiliates. For additional information, see Note 26, “Subsequent Event.”
B. Use of Estimates. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
C. Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash. We consider all highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less to be cash equivalents. We report amounts deposited in brokerage accounts for margin requirements as restricted cash. In addition, we have amounts deposited in trust to satisfy requirements for the provision of various property, liability, workers compensation, and long-term disability insurance, which is classified as restricted cash on the Consolidated Balance Sheets and disclosed with cash and cash equivalents on the Statements of Consolidated Cash Flows.
D. Accounts Receivable and Unbilled Revenue. Accounts receivable on the Consolidated Balance Sheets includes both billed and unbilled amounts. Unbilled amounts of accounts receivable relate to a portion of a customer’s consumption of gas or electricity from the last cycle billing date through the last day of the month (balance sheet date). Factors taken into consideration when estimating unbilled revenue include historical usage, customer rates and weather. Accounts receivable fluctuates from year to year depending in large part on weather impacts and price volatility. Our accounts receivable on the Consolidated Balance Sheets include unbilled revenue, less reserves, in the amounts of $350.5 million and $324.2 million as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively. The reserve for uncollectible receivables is our best estimate of the amount of probable credit losses in the existing accounts receivable. We determined the reserve based on historical experience and in consideration of current market conditions. Account balances are charged against the allowance when it is anticipated the receivable will not be recovered. Refer to Note 3, "Revenue Recognition," for additional information on customer-related accounts receivable.
E. Investments in Debt Securities. Our investments in debt securities are carried at fair value and are designated as available-for-sale. These investments are included within “Other investments” on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Unrealized gains and losses, net of deferred income taxes, are recorded to accumulated other comprehensive income or loss. These investments are monitored for other than temporary declines in market value. Realized gains and losses and permanent impairments are reflected in the Statements of Consolidated Income (Loss). NaN material impairment charges were recorded for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 or 2017. Refer to Note 17, "Fair Value," for additional information.
F. Basis of Accounting for Rate-Regulated Subsidiaries. Rate-regulated subsidiaries account for and report assets and liabilities consistent with the economic effect of the waymanner in which regulators establish rates, if the rates established are designed to recover the costs of providing the regulated service and it is probable that such rates can be charged to and collected.collected from customers. Certain expenses and credits subject to utility regulation or rate determination normally reflected in income are deferred on the Consolidated Balance Sheetsconsolidated balance sheets and are later recognized in income as the related amounts are included in customer rates and recovered from or refunded to customers.
InThe Company’s subsidiaries’ rates are subject to regulatory rate-setting processes. Rates are determined and approved in regulatory proceedings based on an analysis of the event that regulation significantly changessubsidiaries’ costs to provide utility service and a return on, and recovery of, the opportunity for us to recover our costssubsidiaries’ investment in the future, all orutility business. Regulatory decisions can have an impact on the recovery of costs, the rate of return earned on investment, and the timing and amount of assets to be recovered by rates. The respective commission’s regulation of rates is premised on the full recovery of prudently incurred costs and a portionreasonable rate of our regulated operations may no longer meet the criteria for regulatory accounting. In such an event, a write-down of all or a portion of our existing regulatory assets and liabilities could result. If transition cost recovery was approved by the appropriate regulatory bodies that would meet the requirements under GAAP for continued accounting as regulatory assets and liabilities during such recovery period, the regulatory assets and liabilities would be reported at the recoverable amounts. If unable to continue to apply
return on invested
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
NotesREPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
capital. Decisions to Consolidated Financial Statementsbe made by the commission in the future will impact the accounting for regulated operations, including decisions about the amount of allowable costs and return on invested capital included in rates and any refunds that may be required. While the Company has indicated it expects to recover costs from customers through regulated rates, there is a risk that the commission will not approve: (1) full recovery of the costs of providing utility service, or (2) full recovery of all amounts invested in the utility business and a reasonable return on that investment.
We identified the accounting for rate-regulated subsidiaries as a critical audit matter due to the significant judgments made by management to support its assertions about impacted account balances and disclosures and the high degree of subjectivity involved in assessing the impact of future regulatory orders on the financial statements. Management judgments include assessing the likelihood of (1) recovery in future rates of incurred costs and (2) refunds of amounts previously collected from customers. Given that management’s accounting judgments are based on assumptions about the outcome of future decisions by regulatory commissions, auditing these judgments required specialized knowledge of accounting for rate regulation and the rate making process due to its inherent complexities.
How the Critical Audit Matter Was Addressed in the Audit
Our audit procedures related to the uncertainty of future decisions by the commissions focused on the ongoing Columbia Gas of Ohio base rate case and the Northern Indiana Public Service Company electric base rate case proceedings and included the following, among others:
•We tested the effectiveness of management’s controls over the evaluation of the likelihood of (1) the recovery in future rates of costs incurred as property, plant, and equipment and deferred as regulatory assets, and (2) a refund or a future reduction in rates that should be reported as regulatory liabilities. We also tested the effectiveness of management’s controls over the initial recognition of amounts as property, plant, and equipment; regulatory assets or liabilities; and the monitoring and evaluation of regulatory developments, that may affect the likelihood of recovering costs in future rates or of a future reduction in rates.
•We evaluated the Company’s disclosures related to the impacts of rate regulation, including the balances recorded and regulatory developments.
• We read relevant regulatory orders issued by the commissions for the Company, regulatory statutes, interpretations, procedural memorandums, filings made by interveners, and other publicly available information to assess the likelihood of recovery in future rates or of a future reduction in rates based on precedents of the commissions’ treatment of similar costs under similar circumstances. We evaluated the external information and compared to management’s recorded regulatory asset and liability balances for completeness.
• For regulatory matters in process, we inspected the Company’s and intervenors’ filings with the commissions that may impact the Company’s future rates, for any evidence that might contradict management’s assertions related to recoverability of recorded assets. Additionally, we evaluated the joint stipulation filed by Columbia Gas of Ohio with the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio.
• We inquired of management about property, plant, and equipment that may be abandoned with an emphasis on the generation strategy related to Northern Indiana Public Service Company’s R.M. Schahfer and Michigan City Generating Stations. We inspected minutes of the board of directors and regulatory orders and other filings with the commissions to identify evidence that may contradict management’s assertion regarding probability of an abandonment.
• We read the relevant regulatory orders issued by the Commission for the Company’s renewable energy investments. We evaluated the appropriateness of recognizing a regulatory liability or asset representing timing differences between the profit allocated under the Hypothetical Liquidation at Book Value (HLBV) method related to the consolidated joint ventures and the allowed earnings included in regulatory rates. We also evaluated the appropriateness of the offset to the regulatory liability or asset recorded in depreciation expense.
• We evaluated the Company’s disclosures related to the application of ASC Topic 980 to consolidated joint venture accounting.
/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
Columbus, Ohio
February 22, 2023
We have served as the Company's auditor since 2002.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
the provisions of regulatory accounting, we would be required to apply the provisions of ASC 980-20,
Discontinuation of Rate-Regulated Accounting. In management’s opinion, our regulated subsidiaries will be subject to regulatory accounting for the foreseeable future. Refer to Note 8, "Regulatory Matters," for additional information.
G. Plant and Other Property and Related Depreciation and Maintenance. Property, plant and equipment (principally utility plant) is stated at cost. The rate-regulated subsidiaries record depreciation using composite rates on a straight-line basis over the remaining service lives of the electric, gas and common properties as approved by the appropriate regulators.
Non-utility property is generally depreciated on a straight-line basis over the life of the associated asset. Refer to Note 5, "Property, Plant and Equipment," for additional information related to depreciation expense.
For rate-regulated companies, AFUDC is capitalized on all classes of property except organization costs, land, autos, office equipment, tools and other general property purchases. The allowance is applied to construction costs for that period of time between the date of the expenditure and the date on which such project is placed in service. Our pre-tax rate for AFUDC was 3.0% in 2019, 3.5% in 2018 and 4.0% in 2017.
Generally, our subsidiaries follow the practice of charging maintenance and repairs, including the cost of removal of minor items of property, to expense as incurred. When our subsidiaries retire regulated property, plant and equipment, original cost plus the cost of retirement, less salvage value, is charged to accumulated depreciation. However, when it becomes probable a regulated asset will be retired substantially in advance of its original expected useful life or is abandoned, the cost of the asset and the corresponding accumulated depreciation is recognized as a separate asset. If the asset is still in operation, the net amount is classified as "Other property, at cost, less accumulated depreciation" on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. If the asset is no longer operating, the net amount is classified in "Regulatory assets" on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. If we are able to recover a full return of and on investment, the carrying value of the asset is based on historical cost. If we are not able to recover a full return on investment, a loss on impairment is recognized to the extent the net book value of the asset exceeds the present value of future revenues discounted at the incremental borrowing rate.
When our subsidiaries sell entire regulated operating units, or retire or sell nonregulated properties, the original cost and accumulated depreciation and amortization balances are removed from "Property, Plant and Equipment" on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Any gain or loss is recorded in earnings, unless otherwise required by the applicable regulatory body. Refer to Note 5, "Property, Plant and Equipment," for further information.
External and internal costs associated with computer software developed for internal use are capitalized. Capitalization of such costs commences upon the completion of the preliminary stage of each project. Once the installed software is ready for its intended use, such capitalized costs are amortized on a straight-line basis generally over a period of five years, except for certain significant enterprise-wide technology investments which are amortized over a ten-year period.
External and internal up-front implementation costs associated with cloud computing arrangements that are service contracts are deferred on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Once the installed software is ready for its intended use, such deferred costs are amortized on a straight-line basis to "Operation and maintenance," over the minimum term of the contract plus contractually-provided renewal periods that are reasonable expected to be exercised -- generally up to a maximum of five years.
H. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets. Substantially all of our goodwill relates to the excess of cost over the fair value of the net assets acquired in the Columbia acquisition on November 1, 2000. We test our goodwill for impairment annually as of May 1, or more frequently if events and circumstances indicate that goodwill might be impaired. Fair value of our reporting units is determined using a combination of income and market approaches.
We had other intangible assets consisting primarily of franchise rights apart from goodwill that were identified as part of the purchase price allocations associated with the acquisition of Columbia of Massachusetts, which were being amortized on a straight-line basis over forty years from the date of acquisition.
During the fourth quarter of 2019, we impaired goodwill and intangible assets related to Columbia of Massachusetts. See Note 6, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets," for additional information.
I. Accounts Receivable Transfer Program. Certain of our subsidiaries have agreements with third parties to transfer certain accounts receivable without recourse. These transfers of accounts receivable are accounted for as secured borrowings. The entire gross receivables balance remains on the December 31, 2019 and 2018 Consolidated Balance Sheets and short-term debt is recorded
NISOURCE INC.
STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED INCOME (LOSS)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Year Ended December 31, (in millions, except per share amounts) | 2022 | | 2021 | | 2020 |
Operating Revenues | | | | | |
Customer revenues | $ | 5,738.6 | | | $ | 4,731.3 | | | $ | 4,473.2 | |
Other revenues | 112.0 | | | 168.3 | | | 208.5 | |
Total Operating Revenues | 5,850.6 | | | 4,899.6 | | | 4,681.7 | |
Operating Expenses | | | | | |
Cost of energy | 2,110.5 | | | 1,392.3 | | | 1,109.3 | |
Operation and maintenance | 1,489.4 | | | 1,456.0 | | | 1,585.9 | |
Depreciation and amortization | 820.8 | | | 748.4 | | | 725.9 | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
Loss (gain) on sale of assets, net | (104.2) | | | 7.7 | | | 410.6 | |
Other taxes | 268.3 | | | 288.3 | | | 299.2 | |
Total Operating Expenses | 4,584.8 | | | 3,892.7 | | | 4,130.9 | |
| | | | | |
Operating Income | 1,265.8 | | | 1,006.9 | | | 550.8 | |
Other Income (Deductions) | | | | | |
Interest expense, net | (361.6) | | | (341.1) | | | (370.7) | |
Other, net | 52.2 | | | 40.8 | | | 32.1 | |
Loss on early extinguishment of long-term debt | — | | | — | | | (243.5) | |
Total Other Deductions, Net | (309.4) | | | (300.3) | | | (582.1) | |
Income (Loss) before Income Taxes | 956.4 | | | 706.6 | | | (31.3) | |
Income Taxes | 164.6 | | | 117.8 | | | (17.1) | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
Net Income (Loss) | 791.8 | | | 588.8 | | | (14.2) | |
Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest | (12.3) | | | 3.9 | | | 3.4 | |
Net Income (Loss) attributable to NiSource | 804.1 | | | 584.9 | | | (17.6) | |
Preferred dividends | (55.1) | | | (55.1) | | | (55.1) | |
| | | | | |
Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Shareholders | 749.0 | | | 529.8 | | | (72.7) | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
Earnings (Loss) Per Share | | | | | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
Basic Earnings (Loss) Per Share | $ | 1.84 | | | $ | 1.35 | | | $ | (0.19) | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Share | $ | 1.70 | | | $ | 1.27 | | | $ | (0.19) | |
| | | | | |
Basic Average Common Shares Outstanding | 407.1 | | | 393.6 | | | 384.3 | |
Diluted Average Common Shares | 442.7 | | | 417.3 | | | 384.3 | |
The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
in the amount of proceeds received from the transferees involved in the transactions. Refer to Note 18, "Transfers of Financial Assets," for further information.
J. Gas Cost and Fuel Adjustment Clause.
Our regulated subsidiaries defer most differences between gas and fuel purchase costs and the recovery of such costs in revenues, and adjust future billings for such deferrals on a basis consistent with applicable state-approved tariff provisions. These deferred balances are recorded as "Regulatory assets" or "Regulatory liabilities," as appropriate, on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Refer to Note 8, "Regulatory Matters," for additional information.
K. Inventory. Both the LIFO inventory methodology and the weighted average cost methodology are used to value natural gas in storage, as approved by regulators for all of our regulated subsidiaries. Inventory valued using LIFO was $47.2 million and $47.5 million at December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively. Based on the average cost of gas using the LIFO method, the estimated replacement cost of gas in storage was less than the stated LIFO cost by $25.5 million and $12.2 million at December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively. Gas inventory valued using the weighted average cost methodology was $203.7 million at December 31, 2019 and $239.3 million at December 31, 2018.
Electric production fuel is valued using the weighted average cost inventory methodology, as approved by NIPSCO's regulator.
Materials and supplies are valued using the weighted average cost inventory methodology.
L. Accounting for Exchange and Balancing Arrangements of Natural Gas. Our Gas Distribution Operations segment enters into balancing and exchange arrangements of natural gas as part of its operations and off-system sales programs. We record a receivable or payable for any of our respective cumulative gas imbalances, as well as for any gas inventory borrowed or lent under a Gas Distribution Operations exchange agreement. Exchange gas is valued based on individual regulatory jurisdiction requirements (for example, historical spot rate, spot at the beginning of the month). These receivables and payables are recorded as “Exchange gas receivable” or “Exchange gas payable” on our Consolidated Balance Sheets, as appropriate.
M. Accounting for Risk Management Activities. We account for our derivatives and hedging activities in accordance with ASC 815. We recognize all derivatives as either assets or liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets at fair value, unless such contracts are exempted as a normal purchase normal sale under the provisions of the standard. The accounting for changes in the fair value of a derivative depends on the intended use of the derivative and resulting designation.
We have elected not to net fair value amounts for any of our derivative instruments or the fair value amounts recognized for the right to receive cash collateral or obligation to pay cash collateral arising from those derivative instruments recognized at fair value, which are executed with the same counterparty under a master netting arrangement. See Note 9, "Risk Management Activities," for additional information.
N. Income Taxes and Investment Tax Credits. We record income taxes to recognize full interperiod tax allocations.Under the asset and liability method, deferred income taxes are provided for the tax consequences of temporary differences by applying enacted statutory tax rates applicable to future years to differences between the financial statement carrying amount and the tax basis of existing assets and liabilities. Investment tax credits associated with regulated operations are deferred and amortized as a reduction to income tax expense over the estimated useful lives of the related properties.
To the extent certain deferred income taxes of the regulated companies are recoverable or payable through future rates, regulatory assets and liabilities have been established. Regulatory assets for income taxes are primarily attributable to property-related tax timing differences for which deferred taxes had not been provided in the past, when regulators did not recognize such taxes as costs in the rate-making process. Regulatory liabilities for income taxes are primarily attributable to the regulated companies’ obligation to refund to ratepayers deferred income taxes provided at rates higher than the current Federal income tax rate. Such property-related amounts are credited to ratepayers using either the average rate assumption method or the reverse South Georgia method. Non property-related amounts are credited to ratepayers consistent with state utility commission direction.
Pursuant to the Internal Revenue Code and relevant state taxing authorities, we and our subsidiaries file consolidated income tax returns for federal and certain state jurisdictions. We and our subsidiaries are parties to a tax sharing agreement. Income taxes recorded by each party represent amounts that would be owed had the party been separately subject to tax.
O. Environmental Expenditures. We accrue for costs associated with environmental remediation obligations when the incurrence of such costs is probable and the amounts can be reasonably estimated, regardless of when the expenditures are actually made. The undiscounted estimated future expenditures are based on currently enacted laws and regulations, existing technology and estimated site-specific costs where assumptions may be made about the nature and extent of site contamination, the extent of
NISOURCE INC.
STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Year Ended December 31, (in millions, net of taxes) | 2022 | | 2021 | | 2020 |
Net Income (Loss) | $ | 791.8 | | | $ | 588.8 | | | $ | (14.2) | |
Other comprehensive income (loss): | | | | | |
Net unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities(1) | (13.3) | | | (3.9) | | | 2.7 | |
Net unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedges(2) | 109.9 | | | 25.4 | | | (70.7) | |
Unrecognized pension and OPEB benefit (costs)(3) | (6.9) | | | 8.4 | | | 3.9 | |
Total other comprehensive income (loss) | 89.7 | | | 29.9 | | | (64.1) | |
Total Comprehensive Income (Loss) | $ | 881.5 | | | $ | 618.7 | | | $ | (78.3) | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
(1) Net unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities, net of $3.5 million tax benefit, $1.0 million tax benefit and $0.7 million tax expense in 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
(2) Net unrealized gain (loss) on derivatives qualifying as cash flow hedges, net of $36.4 million tax expense, $8.4 million tax expense and $23.4 million tax benefit in 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
(3) Unrecognized pension and OPEB benefit (costs), net of $2.3 million tax benefit, $3.8 million tax expense and $0.1 million tax benefit in 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
cleanup efforts, costsCONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
| | | | | | | | | | | |
(in millions) | December 31, 2022 | | December 31, 2021 |
ASSETS | | | |
Property, Plant and Equipment | | | |
Plant | $ | 27,551.3 | | | $ | 25,171.3 | |
Accumulated depreciation and amortization | (7,708.7) | | | (7,289.5) | |
| | | |
| | | |
Net Property, Plant and Equipment(1) | 19,842.6 | | | 17,881.8 | |
Investments and Other Assets | | | |
Unconsolidated affiliates | 1.6 | | | 0.8 | |
Available-for-sale debt securities (amortized cost of $166.7 and $169.3, allowance for credit losses of $0.9 and $0.2, respectively) | 151.6 | | | 171.8 | |
Other investments | 71.0 | | | 87.1 | |
Total Investments and Other Assets | 224.2 | | | 259.7 | |
Current Assets | | | |
Cash and cash equivalents | 40.8 | | | 84.2 | |
Restricted cash | 34.6 | | | 10.7 | |
Accounts receivable | 1,065.8 | | | 849.1 | |
Allowance for credit losses | (23.9) | | | (23.5) | |
Accounts receivable, net | 1,041.9 | | | 825.6 | |
Gas inventory | 531.7 | | | 327.4 | |
Materials and supplies, at average cost | 151.4 | | | 139.1 | |
Electric production fuel, at average cost | 68.8 | | | 32.2 | |
| | | |
Exchange gas receivable | 128.1 | | | 99.6 | |
| | | |
Regulatory assets | 233.2 | | | 206.2 | |
| | | |
| | | |
Deposits to renewable generation asset developer | 143.8 | | | — | |
Prepayments and other | 210.0 | | | 195.8 | |
Total Current Assets(1) | 2,584.3 | | | 1,920.8 | |
Other Assets | | | |
| | | |
Regulatory assets | 2,347.6 | | | 2,286.0 | |
Goodwill | 1,485.9 | | | 1,485.9 | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
Deferred charges and other | 252.0 | | | 322.7 | |
Total Other Assets | 4,085.5 | | | 4,094.6 | |
Total Assets | $ | 26,736.6 | | | $ | 24,156.9 | |
(1)Includes $978.5 million and $695.9 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively, of alternative cleanup methodsnet property, plant and other variables. The liability is adjusted as further information is discovered or circumstances change. The accruals for estimated environmental expenditures are recorded onequipment assets and $25.7 million and $14.3 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively, of current assets of consolidated VIEs that may be used only to settle obligations of the Consolidated Balance Sheets in “Legal and environmental” for short-term portions of these liabilities and “Other noncurrent liabilities” for the respective long-term portions of these liabilities. Rate-regulated subsidiaries applying regulatory accounting establish regulatory assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets to the extent that future recovery of environmental remediation costs is probable through the regulatory process.consolidated VIEs. Refer to Note 19, "Other Commitments and Contingencies,4, "Variable Interest Entities," for furtheradditional information.
The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.
P. Excise Taxes.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
NISOURCE As an agent for some state and local governments, we invoice and collect certain excise taxes levied by state and local governments on customers and record these amounts as liabilities payable to the applicable taxing jurisdiction. Such balances are presented within "Other accruals" on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. These types of taxes collected from customers, comprised largely of sales taxes, are presented on a net basis affecting neither revenues nor cost of sales. We account for excise taxes for which we are liable by recording a liability for the expected tax with a corresponding charge to “Other taxes” expense on the Statements of Consolidated Income (Loss)INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
| | | | | | | | | | | |
(in millions, except share amounts) | December 31, 2022 | | December 31, 2021 |
CAPITALIZATION AND LIABILITIES | | | |
Capitalization | | | |
Stockholders’ Equity | | | |
Common stock - $0.01 par value, 600,000,000 shares authorized; 412,142,602 and 405,303,023 shares outstanding, respectively | $ | 4.2 | | | $ | 4.1 | |
Preferred stock - $0.01 par value, 20,000,000 shares authorized; 1,302,500 and 1,302,500 shares outstanding, respectively | 1,546.5 | | | 1,546.5 | |
Treasury stock | (99.9) | | | (99.9) | |
Additional paid-in capital | 7,375.3 | | | 7,204.3 | |
Retained deficit | (1,213.6) | | | (1,580.9) | |
Accumulated other comprehensive loss | (37.1) | | | (126.8) | |
Total NiSource Stockholders' Equity | 7,575.4 | | | 6,947.3 | |
Noncontrolling interest in consolidated subsidiaries | 326.4 | | | 325.6 | |
Total Stockholders’ Equity | 7,901.8 | | | 7,272.9 | |
Long-term debt, excluding amounts due within one year | 9,523.6 | | | 9,183.4 | |
Total Capitalization | 17,425.4 | | | 16,456.3 | |
Current Liabilities | | | |
Current portion of long-term debt | 30.0 | | | 58.1 | |
Short-term borrowings | 1,761.9 | | | 560.0 | |
Accounts payable | 899.5 | | | 697.8 | |
| | | |
Customer deposits and credits | 324.7 | | | 237.9 | |
Taxes accrued | 246.2 | | | 277.1 | |
Interest accrued | 138.4 | | | 105.5 | |
| | | |
Exchange gas payable | 147.6 | | | 107.7 | |
| | | |
Regulatory liabilities | 236.8 | | | 137.4 | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
Accrued compensation and employee benefits | 167.5 | | | 182.7 | |
| | | |
Obligations to renewable generation asset developer | 347.2 | | | — | |
Other accruals | 360.7 | | | 382.0 | |
Total Current Liabilities(1) | 4,660.5 | | | 2,746.2 | |
Other Liabilities | | | |
| | | |
Deferred income taxes | 1,854.5 | | | 1,659.4 | |
| | | |
| | | |
Accrued liability for postretirement and postemployment benefits | 245.5 | | | 292.5 | |
| | | |
Regulatory liabilities | 1,775.8 | | | 1,842.6 | |
Asset retirement obligations | 478.1 | | | 469.7 | |
| | | |
Other noncurrent liabilities and deferred credits | 296.8 | | | 690.2 | |
Total Other Liabilities(1) | 4,650.7 | | | 4,954.4 | |
Commitments and Contingencies (Refer to Note 19, "Other Commitments and Contingencies") | | | |
Total Capitalization and Liabilities | $ | 26,736.6 | | | $ | 24,156.9 | |
Q. Accrued Insurance Liabilities.(1) We accrue for insurance costs relatedIncludes $128.2 million and $10.0 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively, of current liabilities and $30.6 million and $20.5 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively, of other liabilities of consolidated VIEs that creditors do not have recourse to workers compensation, automobile, property,our general and employment practices liabilities based on the most probable value of each claim. In general, claim values are determined by professional, licensed loss adjusters who consider the facts of the claim, anticipated indemnification and legal expenses, and respective state rules. Claims are reviewed by us at least quarterly and an adjustment is made to the accrual based on the most current information.credit. Refer to Note 19-E "Other Matters"4, "Variable Interest Entities," for further information on accrued insurance liabilities relatedadditional information.
The accompanying Notes to the Greater Lawrence Incident.Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.
2. Recent Accounting PronouncementsITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
Refer to Note 2, "Recent Accounting Pronouncements," in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk are reported in Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Market Risk Disclosures.”
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
NISOURCE INC.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the shareholders and the Board of Directors of NiSource Inc.
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of NiSource Inc. and subsidiaries (the "Company") as of December 31, 2022 and 2021, the related statements of consolidated income (loss), comprehensive income (loss), stockholders' equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2022, and the related notes and the schedule listed in the Index at Item 15 (collectively referred to as the "financial statements"). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2022 and 2021, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2022, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2022, based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated February 22, 2023, expressed an unqualified opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's financial statements based on our audits. We are currentlya public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Critical Audit Matters
The critical audit matter communicated below is a matter arising from the current-period audit of the financial statements that was communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that (1) relates to accounts or disclosures that are material to the financial statements and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters does not alter in any way our opinion on the financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matter below, providing a separate opinion on the critical audit matter or on the accounts or disclosures to which it relates.
Impact of Rate Regulation on the Financial Statements - Refer to Notes 1 and 9 to the consolidated financial statements
Critical Audit Matter Description
The Company’s subsidiaries are fully regulated natural gas and electric utility companies serving customers in six states. These rate-regulated subsidiaries account for and report assets and liabilities consistent with the economic effect of the manner in which regulators establish rates, if the rates established are designed to recover the costs of providing the regulated service and it is probable that such rates can be charged to and collected from customers. Certain expenses and credits subject to utility regulation or rate determination normally reflected in income are deferred on the consolidated balance sheets and are later recognized in income as the related amounts are included in customer rates and recovered from or refunded to customers.
The Company’s subsidiaries’ rates are subject to regulatory rate-setting processes. Rates are determined and approved in regulatory proceedings based on an analysis of the subsidiaries’ costs to provide utility service and a return on, and recovery of, the subsidiaries’ investment in the utility business. Regulatory decisions can have an impact on the recovery of costs, the rate of return earned on investment, and the timing and amount of assets to be recovered by rates. The respective commission’s regulation of rates is premised on the full recovery of prudently incurred costs and a reasonable rate of return on invested
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
capital. Decisions to be made by the commission in the future will impact the accounting for regulated operations, including decisions about the amount of allowable costs and return on invested capital included in rates and any refunds that may be required. While the Company has indicated it expects to recover costs from customers through regulated rates, there is a risk that the commission will not approve: (1) full recovery of the costs of providing utility service, or (2) full recovery of all amounts invested in the utility business and a reasonable return on that investment.
We identified the accounting for rate-regulated subsidiaries as a critical audit matter due to the significant judgments made by management to support its assertions about impacted account balances and disclosures and the high degree of subjectivity involved in assessing the impact of certain ASUsfuture regulatory orders on our Consolidated Financial Statementsthe financial statements. Management judgments include assessing the likelihood of (1) recovery in future rates of incurred costs and (2) refunds of amounts previously collected from customers. Given that management’s accounting judgments are based on assumptions about the outcome of future decisions by regulatory commissions, auditing these judgments required specialized knowledge of accounting for rate regulation and the rate making process due to its inherent complexities.
How the Critical Audit Matter Was Addressed in the Audit
Our audit procedures related to the uncertainty of future decisions by the commissions focused on the ongoing Columbia Gas of Ohio base rate case and the Northern Indiana Public Service Company electric base rate case proceedings and included the following, among others:
•We tested the effectiveness of management’s controls over the evaluation of the likelihood of (1) the recovery in future rates of costs incurred as property, plant, and equipment and deferred as regulatory assets, and (2) a refund or a future reduction in rates that should be reported as regulatory liabilities. We also tested the effectiveness of management’s controls over the initial recognition of amounts as property, plant, and equipment; regulatory assets or liabilities; and the monitoring and evaluation of regulatory developments, that may affect the likelihood of recovering costs in future rates or of a future reduction in rates.
•We evaluated the Company’s disclosures related to the impacts of rate regulation, including the balances recorded and regulatory developments.
• We read relevant regulatory orders issued by the commissions for the Company, regulatory statutes, interpretations, procedural memorandums, filings made by interveners, and other publicly available information to assess the likelihood of recovery in future rates or of a future reduction in rates based on precedents of the commissions’ treatment of similar costs under similar circumstances. We evaluated the external information and compared to management’s recorded regulatory asset and liability balances for completeness.
• For regulatory matters in process, we inspected the Company’s and intervenors’ filings with the commissions that may impact the Company’s future rates, for any evidence that might contradict management’s assertions related to recoverability of recorded assets. Additionally, we evaluated the joint stipulation filed by Columbia Gas of Ohio with the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio.
• We inquired of management about property, plant, and equipment that may be abandoned with an emphasis on the generation strategy related to Northern Indiana Public Service Company’s R.M. Schahfer and Michigan City Generating Stations. We inspected minutes of the board of directors and regulatory orders and other filings with the commissions to identify evidence that may contradict management’s assertion regarding probability of an abandonment.
• We read the relevant regulatory orders issued by the Commission for the Company’s renewable energy investments. We evaluated the appropriateness of recognizing a regulatory liability or asset representing timing differences between the profit allocated under the Hypothetical Liquidation at Book Value (HLBV) method related to the consolidated joint ventures and the allowed earnings included in regulatory rates. We also evaluated the appropriateness of the offset to the regulatory liability or asset recorded in depreciation expense.
• We evaluated the Company’s disclosures related to the application of ASC Topic 980 to consolidated joint venture accounting.
/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
Columbus, Ohio
February 22, 2023
We have served as the Company's auditor since 2002.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED INCOME (LOSS)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Year Ended December 31, (in millions, except per share amounts) | 2022 | | 2021 | | 2020 |
Operating Revenues | | | | | |
Customer revenues | $ | 5,738.6 | | | $ | 4,731.3 | | | $ | 4,473.2 | |
Other revenues | 112.0 | | | 168.3 | | | 208.5 | |
Total Operating Revenues | 5,850.6 | | | 4,899.6 | | | 4,681.7 | |
Operating Expenses | | | | | |
Cost of energy | 2,110.5 | | | 1,392.3 | | | 1,109.3 | |
Operation and maintenance | 1,489.4 | | | 1,456.0 | | | 1,585.9 | |
Depreciation and amortization | 820.8 | | | 748.4 | | | 725.9 | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
Loss (gain) on sale of assets, net | (104.2) | | | 7.7 | | | 410.6 | |
Other taxes | 268.3 | | | 288.3 | | | 299.2 | |
Total Operating Expenses | 4,584.8 | | | 3,892.7 | | | 4,130.9 | |
| | | | | |
Operating Income | 1,265.8 | | | 1,006.9 | | | 550.8 | |
Other Income (Deductions) | | | | | |
Interest expense, net | (361.6) | | | (341.1) | | | (370.7) | |
Other, net | 52.2 | | | 40.8 | | | 32.1 | |
Loss on early extinguishment of long-term debt | — | | | — | | | (243.5) | |
Total Other Deductions, Net | (309.4) | | | (300.3) | | | (582.1) | |
Income (Loss) before Income Taxes | 956.4 | | | 706.6 | | | (31.3) | |
Income Taxes | 164.6 | | | 117.8 | | | (17.1) | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
Net Income (Loss) | 791.8 | | | 588.8 | | | (14.2) | |
Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest | (12.3) | | | 3.9 | | | 3.4 | |
Net Income (Loss) attributable to NiSource | 804.1 | | | 584.9 | | | (17.6) | |
Preferred dividends | (55.1) | | | (55.1) | | | (55.1) | |
| | | | | |
Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Shareholders | 749.0 | | | 529.8 | | | (72.7) | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
Earnings (Loss) Per Share | | | | | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
Basic Earnings (Loss) Per Share | $ | 1.84 | | | $ | 1.35 | | | $ | (0.19) | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Share | $ | 1.70 | | | $ | 1.27 | | | $ | (0.19) | |
| | | | | |
Basic Average Common Shares Outstanding | 407.1 | | | 393.6 | | | 384.3 | |
Diluted Average Common Shares | 442.7 | | | 417.3 | | | 384.3 | |
The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements which are described below:an integral part of these statements.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Year Ended December 31, (in millions, net of taxes) | 2022 | | 2021 | | 2020 |
Net Income (Loss) | $ | 791.8 | | | $ | 588.8 | | | $ | (14.2) | |
Other comprehensive income (loss): | | | | | |
Net unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities(1) | (13.3) | | | (3.9) | | | 2.7 | |
Net unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedges(2) | 109.9 | | | 25.4 | | | (70.7) | |
Unrecognized pension and OPEB benefit (costs)(3) | (6.9) | | | 8.4 | | | 3.9 | |
Total other comprehensive income (loss) | 89.7 | | | 29.9 | | | (64.1) | |
Total Comprehensive Income (Loss) | $ | 881.5 | | | $ | 618.7 | | | $ | (78.3) | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
(1) Net unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities, net of $3.5 million tax benefit, $1.0 million tax benefit and $0.7 million tax expense in 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
(2) Net unrealized gain (loss) on derivatives qualifying as cash flow hedges, net of $36.4 million tax expense, $8.4 million tax expense and $23.4 million tax benefit in 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
(3) Unrecognized pension and OPEB benefit (costs), net of $2.3 million tax benefit, $3.8 million tax expense and $0.1 million tax benefit in 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
| | | | | | | | | | | |
(in millions) | December 31, 2022 | | December 31, 2021 |
ASSETS | | | |
Property, Plant and Equipment | | | |
Plant | $ | 27,551.3 | | | $ | 25,171.3 | |
Accumulated depreciation and amortization | (7,708.7) | | | (7,289.5) | |
| | | |
| | | |
Net Property, Plant and Equipment(1) | 19,842.6 | | | 17,881.8 | |
Investments and Other Assets | | | |
Unconsolidated affiliates | 1.6 | | | 0.8 | |
Available-for-sale debt securities (amortized cost of $166.7 and $169.3, allowance for credit losses of $0.9 and $0.2, respectively) | 151.6 | | | 171.8 | |
Other investments | 71.0 | | | 87.1 | |
Total Investments and Other Assets | 224.2 | | | 259.7 | |
Current Assets | | | |
Cash and cash equivalents | 40.8 | | | 84.2 | |
Restricted cash | 34.6 | | | 10.7 | |
Accounts receivable | 1,065.8 | | | 849.1 | |
Allowance for credit losses | (23.9) | | | (23.5) | |
Accounts receivable, net | 1,041.9 | | | 825.6 | |
Gas inventory | 531.7 | | | 327.4 | |
Materials and supplies, at average cost | 151.4 | | | 139.1 | |
Electric production fuel, at average cost | 68.8 | | | 32.2 | |
| | | |
Exchange gas receivable | 128.1 | | | 99.6 | |
| | | |
Regulatory assets | 233.2 | | | 206.2 | |
| | | |
| | | |
Deposits to renewable generation asset developer | 143.8 | | | — | |
Prepayments and other | 210.0 | | | 195.8 | |
Total Current Assets(1) | 2,584.3 | | | 1,920.8 | |
Other Assets | | | |
| | | |
Regulatory assets | 2,347.6 | | | 2,286.0 | |
Goodwill | 1,485.9 | | | 1,485.9 | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
Deferred charges and other | 252.0 | | | 322.7 | |
Total Other Assets | 4,085.5 | | | 4,094.6 | |
Total Assets | $ | 26,736.6 | | | $ | 24,156.9 | |
(1)Includes $978.5 million and $695.9 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively, of net property, plant and equipment assets and $25.7 million and $14.3 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively, of current assets of consolidated VIEs that may be used only to settle obligations of the consolidated VIEs. Refer to Note 4, "Variable Interest Entities," for additional information.
The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
| | | | | | | | | | | |
(in millions, except share amounts) | December 31, 2022 | | December 31, 2021 |
CAPITALIZATION AND LIABILITIES | | | |
Capitalization | | | |
Stockholders’ Equity | | | |
Common stock - $0.01 par value, 600,000,000 shares authorized; 412,142,602 and 405,303,023 shares outstanding, respectively | $ | 4.2 | | | $ | 4.1 | |
Preferred stock - $0.01 par value, 20,000,000 shares authorized; 1,302,500 and 1,302,500 shares outstanding, respectively | 1,546.5 | | | 1,546.5 | |
Treasury stock | (99.9) | | | (99.9) | |
Additional paid-in capital | 7,375.3 | | | 7,204.3 | |
Retained deficit | (1,213.6) | | | (1,580.9) | |
Accumulated other comprehensive loss | (37.1) | | | (126.8) | |
Total NiSource Stockholders' Equity | 7,575.4 | | | 6,947.3 | |
Noncontrolling interest in consolidated subsidiaries | 326.4 | | | 325.6 | |
Total Stockholders’ Equity | 7,901.8 | | | 7,272.9 | |
Long-term debt, excluding amounts due within one year | 9,523.6 | | | 9,183.4 | |
Total Capitalization | 17,425.4 | | | 16,456.3 | |
Current Liabilities | | | |
Current portion of long-term debt | 30.0 | | | 58.1 | |
Short-term borrowings | 1,761.9 | | | 560.0 | |
Accounts payable | 899.5 | | | 697.8 | |
| | | |
Customer deposits and credits | 324.7 | | | 237.9 | |
Taxes accrued | 246.2 | | | 277.1 | |
Interest accrued | 138.4 | | | 105.5 | |
| | | |
Exchange gas payable | 147.6 | | | 107.7 | |
| | | |
Regulatory liabilities | 236.8 | | | 137.4 | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
Accrued compensation and employee benefits | 167.5 | | | 182.7 | |
| | | |
Obligations to renewable generation asset developer | 347.2 | | | — | |
Other accruals | 360.7 | | | 382.0 | |
Total Current Liabilities(1) | 4,660.5 | | | 2,746.2 | |
Other Liabilities | | | |
| | | |
Deferred income taxes | 1,854.5 | | | 1,659.4 | |
| | | |
| | | |
Accrued liability for postretirement and postemployment benefits | 245.5 | | | 292.5 | |
| | | |
Regulatory liabilities | 1,775.8 | | | 1,842.6 | |
Asset retirement obligations | 478.1 | | | 469.7 | |
| | | |
Other noncurrent liabilities and deferred credits | 296.8 | | | 690.2 | |
Total Other Liabilities(1) | 4,650.7 | | | 4,954.4 | |
Commitments and Contingencies (Refer to Note 19, "Other Commitments and Contingencies") | | | |
Total Capitalization and Liabilities | $ | 26,736.6 | | | $ | 24,156.9 | |
(1)Includes $128.2 million and $10.0 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively, of current liabilities and $30.6 million and $20.5 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively, of other liabilities of consolidated VIEs that creditors do not have recourse to our general credit. Refer to Note 4, "Variable Interest Entities," for additional information.
The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOWS
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Year Ended December 31, (in millions) | 2022 | | 2021 | | 2020 |
Operating Activities | | | | | |
Net Income (Loss) | $ | 791.8 | | | $ | 588.8 | | | $ | (14.2) | |
Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income to Net Cash from Operating Activities: | | | | | |
Loss on early extinguishment of debt | — | | | — | | | 243.5 | |
Depreciation and amortization | 820.8 | | | 748.4 | | | 725.9 | |
| | | | | |
Deferred income taxes and investment tax credits | 156.9 | | | 111.9 | | | (29.0) | |
| | | | | |
Stock compensation expense and 401(k) profit sharing contribution | 24.9 | | | 24.3 | | | 17.4 | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
Loss (gain) on sale of assets | (105.3) | | | 5.6 | | | 409.8 | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
Other adjustments | 5.7 | | | (0.7) | | | (0.3) | |
Changes in Assets and Liabilities: | | | | | |
Accounts receivable | (216.3) | | | (40.3) | | | (3.9) | |
| | | | | |
Inventories | (258.9) | | | (112.9) | | | (1.5) | |
Accounts payable | 165.0 | | | 54.9 | | | (29.7) | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
Exchange gas receivable/payable | 57.8 | | | (114.2) | | | (6.9) | |
Other accruals | 73.4 | | | 43.0 | | | (175.1) | |
Prepayments and other current assets | (9.8) | | | (36.6) | | | (5.9) | |
Regulatory assets/liabilities | (129.4) | | | 76.8 | | | 70.8 | |
Postretirement and postemployment benefits | 84.7 | | | (96.4) | | | (103.6) | |
| | | | | |
Deferred charges and other noncurrent assets | (4.1) | | | (4.7) | | | (15.0) | |
Other noncurrent liabilities and deferred credits | (47.8) | | | (30.0) | | | 21.7 | |
| | | | | |
Net Cash Flows from Operating Activities | 1,409.4 | | | 1,217.9 | | | 1,104.0 | |
Investing Activities | | | | | |
Capital expenditures | (2,203.1) | | | (1,838.0) | | | (1,758.1) | |
Insurance Recoveries | 105.0 | | | — | | | — | |
Cost of removal | (151.7) | | | (121.1) | | | (138.2) | |
Proceeds from disposition of assets | — | | | 0.7 | | | 1,115.9 | |
Purchases of available-for-sale securities | (73.5) | | | (102.9) | | | (144.7) | |
Sales of available-for-sale securities | 75.7 | | | 97.8 | | | 131.4 | |
Payment to renewable generation asset developer | (323.9) | | | (240.4) | | | (85.3) | |
Other investing activities | 1.3 | | | (1.0) | | | (0.1) | |
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Net Cash Flows used for Investing Activities | (2,570.2) | | | (2,204.9) | | | (879.1) | |
Financing Activities | | | | | |
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt | 345.6 | | | — | | | 2,974.0 | |
Repayments of long-term debt and finance lease obligations | (60.3) | | | (25.7) | | | (1,622.0) | |
Issuance of short-term debt (maturity > 90 days) | 1,000.0 | | | — | | | 1,350.0 | |
Repayment of short-term debt (maturity > 90 days) | — | | | — | | | (2,200.0) | |
Change in short-term debt (maturity ≤ 90 days) | 202.2 | | | 57.0 | | | (420.1) | |
Issuance of common stock, net of issuance costs | 154.3 | | | 299.6 | | | 211.4 | |
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Equity costs, premiums and other debt related costs | (13.0) | | | (18.2) | | | (246.5) | |
Contributions from noncontrolling interest | 21.2 | | | 245.1 | | | 82.2 | |
Distributions to noncontrolling interest | (6.0) | | | (0.6) | | | — | |
Issuance of equity units, net of underwriting costs | — | | | 839.9 | | | — | |
Dividends paid - common stock | (381.5) | | | (345.2) | | | (321.6) | |
Dividends paid - preferred stock | (55.1) | | | (55.1) | | | (55.1) | |
Contract liability payment | (66.1) | | | (40.5) | | | — | |
Net Cash Flows from (used for) Financing Activities | 1,141.3 | | | 956.3 | | | (247.7) | |
Change in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash | (19.5) | | | (30.7) | | | (22.8) | |
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of period | 94.9 | | | 125.6 | | | 148.4 | |
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash at End of Period | $ | 75.4 | | | $ | 94.9 | | | $ | 125.6 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Reconciliation to Balance Sheet | 2022 | | 2021 | | 2020 |
Cash and cash equivalents | 40.8 | | 84.2 | | 116.5 |
Restricted Cash | 34.6 | | 10.7 | | 9.1 |
Total Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash | 75.4 | | 94.9 | | 125.6 |
The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
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(in millions) | Common Stock | | Preferred Stock(1) | | Treasury Stock | | Additional Paid-In Capital | | Retained Deficit | | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss | | Noncontrolling Interest in Consolidated Subsidiaries | | Total |
Balance as of January 1, 2020 | $ | 3.8 | | | $ | 880.0 | | | $ | (99.9) | | | $ | 6,666.2 | | | $ | (1,370.8) | | | $ | (92.6) | | | $ | — | | | $ | 5,986.7 | |
Comprehensive Loss: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net Income (Loss) | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | (17.6) | | | — | | | 3.4 | | | (14.2) | |
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | (64.1) | | | — | | | (64.1) | |
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Dividends: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Common stock ($0.84 per share) | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | (321.7) | | | — | | | — | | | (321.7) | |
Preferred stock (See Note 13) | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | (55.1) | | | — | | | — | | | (55.1) | |
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Contributions from noncontrolling interest | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 82.2 | | | 82.2 | |
Stock issuances: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
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Employee stock purchase plan | — | | | — | | | — | | | 5.7 | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 5.7 | |
Long-term incentive plan | — | | | — | | | — | | | 8.4 | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 8.4 | |
401(k) and profit sharing | — | | | — | | | — | | | 13.4 | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 13.4 | |
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ATM Program | 0.1 | | | — | | | — | | | 196.4 | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 196.5 | |
Balance as of December 31, 2020 | $ | 3.9 | | | $ | 880.0 | | | $ | (99.9) | | | $ | 6,890.1 | | | $ | (1,765.2) | | | $ | (156.7) | | | $ | 85.6 | | | $ | 5,837.8 | |
Comprehensive Income: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net Income | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 584.9 | | | — | | | 3.9 | | | 588.8 | |
Other comprehensive income, net of tax | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 29.9 | | | — | | | 29.9 | |
Dividends: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Common stock ($0.88 per share) | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | (345.5) | | | — | | | — | | | (345.5) | |
Preferred stock (See Note 13) | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | (55.1) | | | — | | | — | | | (55.1) | |
Contributions from noncontrolling interest | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 236.7 | | | 236.7 | |
Distributions to noncontrolling interest | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | (0.6) | | | (0.6) | |
Stock issuances: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Equity Units | — | | | 666.5 | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 666.5 | |
Employee stock purchase plan | — | | | — | | | — | | | 5.0 | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 5.0 | |
Long-term incentive plan | — | | | — | | | — | | | 11.8 | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 11.8 | |
401(k) and profit sharing | — | | | — | | | — | | | 9.5 | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 9.5 | |
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ATM Program | 0.2 | | | — | | | — | | | 287.9 | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 288.1 | |
Balance as of December 31, 2021 | $ | 4.1 | | | $ | 1,546.5 | | | $ | (99.9) | | | $ | 7,204.3 | | | $ | (1,580.9) | | | $ | (126.8) | | | $ | 325.6 | | | $ | 7,272.9 | |
Comprehensive Income: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net Income (Loss) | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 804.1 | | | — | | | (12.3) | | | 791.8 | |
Other comprehensive income, net of tax | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 89.7 | | | — | | | 89.7 | |
Dividends: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Common stock ($0.94 per share) | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | (381.7) | | | — | | | — | | | (381.7) | |
Preferred stock (See Note 13) | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | (55.1) | | | — | | | — | | | (55.1) | |
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Contributions from noncontrolling interest | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 19.1 | | | 19.1 | |
Distributions to noncontrolling interest | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | (6.0) | | | (6.0) | |
Stock issuances: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
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Employee stock purchase plan | — | | | — | | | — | | | 5.2 | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 5.2 | |
Long-term incentive plan | — | | | — | | | — | | | 14.3 | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 14.3 | |
401(k) and profit sharing | — | | | — | | | — | | | 9.7 | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 9.7 | |
ATM Program | 0.1 | | | — | | | — | | | 141.8 | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 141.9 | |
Balance as of December 31, 2022 | $ | 4.2 | | | $ | 1,546.5 | | | $ | (99.9) | | | $ | 7,375.3 | | | $ | (1,213.6) | | | $ | (37.1) | | | $ | 326.4 | | | $ | 7,901.8 | |
(1)Series A, Series B, and Series C shares have an aggregate liquidation preference of $400M, $500M, and $863M, respectively. See Note 13, "Equity," for additional information.
The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.
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Standard | Description | Effective Date | Effect on the financial statements or other significant matters | | | | | | |
ASU 2018-14, Compensation—Retirement Benefits—Defined Benefit Plans—General (Subtopic 715-20): Disclosure Framework—Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Defined Benefit Plans
| The pronouncement modifies the disclosure requirements for defined benefit pension or other postretirement benefit plans. The guidance removes disclosures that are no longer considered cost beneficial, clarifies the specific requirements of disclosures and adds disclosure requirements identified as relevant. The modifications affect annual period disclosures and must be applied on a retrospective basis to all periods presented. | Annual periods ending after December 15, 2020. Early adoption is permitted. | We are currently evaluating the effects of this pronouncement on our Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. We expect to adopt this ASU on its effective date.
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ASU 2019-12,
Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes
| This pronouncement simplifies the accounting for income taxes by eliminating certain exceptions to the general principles in ASC 740, income taxes. It also improves consistency of application for other areas of the guidance by clarifying and amending existing guidance.
| Annual periods beginning after December 15, 2020. Early adoption is permitted. | We are currently evaluating the effects of this pronouncement on our Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. We tentatively expect to adopt this ASU on its effective date. | | | | | | | | | | |
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ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY (continued)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Preferred | | Common |
(in thousands) | Shares | | Shares | | Treasury | | Outstanding |
Balance as of January 1, 2020 | 440 | | | 386,099 | | | (3,963) | | | 382,136 | |
Issued: | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
Employee stock purchase plan | — | | | 236 | | | — | | | 236 | |
Long-term incentive plan | — | | | 385 | | | — | | | 385 | |
401(k) and profit sharing plan | — | | | 544 | | | — | | | 544 | |
| | | | | | | |
ATM Program | — | | | 8,459 | | | — | | | 8,459 | |
Balance as of December 31, 2020 | 440 | | | 395,723 | | | (3,963) | | | 391,760 | |
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Issued: | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
Equity Units | 863 | | | — | | | — | | | — | |
Employee stock purchase plan | — | | | 209 | | | — | | | 209 | |
Long-term incentive plan | — | | | 418 | | | — | | | 418 | |
401(k) and profit sharing plan | — | | | 391 | | | — | | | 391 | |
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ATM Program | — | | | 12,525 | | | — | | | 12,525 | |
Balance as of December 31, 2021 | 1,303 | | | 409,266 | | | (3,963) | | | 405,303 | |
Issued: | | | | | | | |
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Employee stock purchase plan | — | | | 186 | | | — | | | 186 | |
Long-term incentive plan | — | | | 375 | | | — | | | 375 | |
401(k) and profit sharing plan | — | | | 337 | | | — | | | 337 | |
ATM Program | — | | | 5,942 | | | — | | | 5,942 | |
Balance as of December 31, 2022 | 1,303 | | | 416,106 | | | (3,963) | | | 412,143 | |
The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
1. Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
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Standard | Adoption |
ASU 2019-01, Leases (Topic 842): Codification Improvements
| See Note 16, "Leases," for our discussion of the effects of implementing these standards. |
ASU 2018-11, Leases (Topic 842): Targeted Improvements
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ASU 2018-01, Leases (Topic 842): Land Easement Practical Expedient for Transition to Topic 842
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ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842)
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ASU 2019-04, Codification Improvements to Topic 326, Financial Instruments-Credit Losses, Topic 815, Derivatives and Hedging, and Topic 825, Financial Instruments
| In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13 that revised the guidance on the impairment of most financial assets and certain other instruments that are not measured at fair value through net income. This ASU replaces the current "incurred loss" model with an "expected loss" model for instruments measured at amortized cost. It also requires entities to record allowances for available-for-sale securities rather than impair the carrying amount of the securities. Subsequent improvements to the estimated credit losses of available-for-sale securities will be recognized immediately in earnings instead of over time as they are under historic guidance.
We adopted this ASU effective January 1, 2020, using a modified retrospective method. Adoption of this standard did not have a material impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements. No material adjustments were made to January 1, 2020 opening balances as a result of adoption. For our investments that are classified as available for sale debt securities, we will recognize impairment using an allowance approach instead of an 'other than temporary' impairment (OTTI) model. Since we do not have amounts previously recognized in other comprehensive income related to previous OTTI charges, provisions of this ASU are adopted prospectively. In regards to our recorded balances of trade receivables that fall within the scope of this ASU, the ASU did not result in any significant modifications to our policies related to recognizing an allowance on our trade receivables. Based on shared risk characteristics, we segregate our trade receivables into separate pools. We will apply separate models to calculate reserves for uncollectible receivables, as well as consider factors other than time to determine whether a credit loss exists. ASC 326 also prescribes additional presentation and disclosure requirements. For reporting periods beginning after January 1, 2020, we will include additional disclosures in our Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements based on qualitative and quantitative assessment of materiality.
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ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments-Credit Losses (Topic 326)
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A. Company Structure and Principles of Consolidation. We are an energy holding company incorporated in Delaware and headquartered in Merrillville, Indiana. Our subsidiaries are fully regulated natural gas and electric utility companies serving approximately 3.7 million customers in six states. We generate substantially all of our operating income through these rate-regulated businesses. The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of us, our majority-owned subsidiaries, and VIEs of which we are the primary beneficiary after the elimination of all intercompany accounts and transactions.B. Use of Estimates. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. 3. RevenueC. Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash. We consider all highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less to be cash equivalents. We report amounts deposited in brokerage accounts for margin requirements as restricted cash. In addition, we have amounts deposited in trusts to satisfy requirements for the provision of various property, liability, workers compensation, and long-term disability insurance, which is classified as restricted cash on the Consolidated Balance Sheets and disclosed with cash and cash equivalents on the Statements of Consolidated Cash Flows.
D. Accounts Receivable and Unbilled Revenue. Accounts receivable on the Consolidated Balance Sheets includes both billed and unbilled amounts. Unbilled amounts of accounts receivable relate to a portion of a customer’s consumption of gas or electricity from the last cycle billing date through the last day of the month (balance sheet date). Factors taken into consideration when estimating unbilled revenue include historical usage, customer rates, weather and reasonable and supportable forecasts. Accounts receivable fluctuates from year to year depending in large part on weather impacts and price volatility. Our accounts receivable on the Consolidated Balance Sheets include unbilled revenue, less reserves. The reserve for uncollectible receivables is our best estimate of the amount of probable credit losses in the existing accounts receivable. We determined the reserve based on historical collection experience, current market conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts. Account balances are charged against the allowance when it is anticipated the receivable will not be recovered. Refer to Note 3, "Revenue Recognition," for additional information on customer-related accounts receivable, including amounts related to unbilled revenues.
E. Investments in Debt Securities. Our investments in debt securities are carried at fair value and are designated as available-for-sale. These investments are included within “Available-for-sale debt securities” on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Unrealized gains and losses, net of deferred income taxes, are recorded to accumulated other comprehensive income or loss. At each reporting period these investments are qualitatively and quantitatively assessed to determine whether a decline in fair value below the amortized cost basis has resulted from a credit loss or other factors. Impairments related to credit loss are recorded through an allowance for credit losses. Impairments that are not related to credit losses are included in other comprehensive income and are reflected in the Statements of Consolidated Income (Loss). No material impairment charges were recorded for the years ended December 31, 2022, 2021 or 2020. Refer to Note 18, "Fair Value," for additional information.
F. Basis of Accounting for Rate-Regulated Subsidiaries. Rate-regulated subsidiaries account for and report assets and liabilities consistent with the economic effect of the way in which regulators establish rates, if the rates established are designed to recover the costs of providing the regulated service and it is probable that such rates can be charged and collected. Certain expenses and credits subject to utility regulation or rate determination normally reflected in income are deferred on the Consolidated Balance Sheets and are later recognized in income as the related amounts are included in customer rates and recovered from or refunded to customers.
We continually evaluate whether or not our operations are within the scope of ASC 980 and rate regulations. As part of that analysis, we evaluate probability of recovery for our regulatory assets. In 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (ASC 606). ASU 2014-09 outlines a single, comprehensive model for entitiesmanagement’s opinion, our regulated subsidiaries will be subject to use inregulatory accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customersthe foreseeable future. Refer to Note 9, "Regulatory Matters," for additional information.
G. Plant and supersedes most current revenue recognition guidance. The core principleOther Property and Related Depreciation and Maintenance. Property, plant and equipment (principally utility plant) is stated at cost. Our rate-regulated subsidiaries record depreciation using composite rates on a straight-line basis over the remaining service lives of the new standard is that an entity should recognize revenue to depictelectric, gas and common properties, as approved by the transfer of goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. In 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-08, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (ASC 606): Principal versus Agent Considerations, and ASU 2016-12, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (ASC 606): Narrow-Scope Improvements and Practical Expedients. We adopted the provisions of ASC 606 beginning on January 1, 2018 using a modified retrospective method, which was applied to all contracts. No material adjustments were made to January 1, 2018 opening balances as a result of the adoption. As required under the modified retrospective method of adoption, results for reporting periods beginning after January 1, 2018 are presented under ASC 606, while prior period amounts are not adjusted and continue to be reported in accordance with ASC 605.appropriate regulators.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
Non-utility property includes renewable generation assets owned by JVs of which we are the primary beneficiary and is generally depreciated on a straight-line basis over the life of the associated assets. Refer to Note 6, "Property, Plant and Equipment," for additional information related to depreciation expense.
For rate-regulated companies where provided for in rates, AFUDC is capitalized on all classes of property except organization costs, land, autos, office equipment, tools and other general property purchases. The table below provides resultsallowance is applied to construction costs for that period of time between the date of the expenditure and the date on which such project is placed in service. Our consolidated pre-tax rate for AFUDC was 3.4% in 2022, 3.3% in 2021 and 2.6% in 2020.
Generally, our subsidiaries follow the practice of charging maintenance and repairs, including the cost of removal of minor items of property, to expense as incurred. When our subsidiaries retire regulated property, plant and equipment, original cost plus the cost of retirement, less salvage value, is charged to accumulated depreciation. However, when it becomes probable a regulated asset will be retired substantially in advance of its original expected useful life or is abandoned, the cost of the asset and the corresponding accumulated depreciation is recognized as a separate asset. If the asset is still in operation, the gross amounts are classified as "Non-Utility and Other " as described in Note 6, "Property, Plant and Equipment." If the asset is no longer operating but still subject to recovery, the net amount is classified in "Regulatory assets" on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. If we are able to recover a full return of and on investment, the carrying value of the asset is based on historical cost. If we are not able to recover a full return on investment, a loss on impairment is recognized to the extent the net book value of the asset exceeds the present value of future revenues discounted at the incremental borrowing rate.
External and internal costs associated with on-premise computer software developed for internal use are capitalized. Capitalization of such costs commences upon the completion of the preliminary stage of each project. Once the installed software is ready for its intended use, such capitalized costs are amortized on a straight-line basis generally over a period of five years. External and internal up-front implementation costs associated with cloud computing arrangements that are service contracts are deferred on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Once the installed software is ready for its intended use, such deferred costs are amortized on a straight-line basis to "Operation and maintenance," over the minimum term of the contract plus contractually-provided renewal periods that are reasonable, expected to be exercised.
H. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets. Substantially all of our goodwill relates to the excess of cost over the fair value of the net assets acquired in the Columbia acquisition on November 1, 2000. We test our goodwill for impairment annually as of May 1, or more frequently if events and circumstances indicate that goodwill might be impaired. Fair value of our reporting units is determined using a combination of income and market approaches. See Note 7, "Goodwill," for additional information.
I. Accounts Receivable Transfer Programs. Certain of our subsidiaries have agreements with third parties to transfer certain accounts receivable without recourse. These transfers of accounts receivable are accounted for as secured borrowings. The entire gross receivables balance remains on the December 31, 2022 and 2021 Consolidated Balance Sheets. When amounts are securitized, the short-term debt is recorded in the amount of proceeds received from the transferees involved in the transactions. Refer to Note 16, "Short-Term Borrowings," for further information.
J. Gas Cost and Fuel Adjustment Clause. Our regulated subsidiaries defer most differences between gas and fuel purchase costs and the recovery of such costs in revenues and adjust future billings for such deferrals on a basis consistent with applicable state-approved tariff provisions. These deferred balances are recorded as "Regulatory assets" or "Regulatory liabilities," as appropriate, on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Refer to Note 9, "Regulatory Matters," for additional information.
K. Inventory. Both the LIFO inventory methodology and the weighted average cost methodology are used to value natural gas in storage, as approved by regulators for all of our regulated subsidiaries. Inventory valued using LIFO was $43.0 million and $44.9 million at December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively. Based on the average cost of gas using the LIFO method, the estimated replacement cost of gas in storage was greater than the stated LIFO cost by $7.7 million at December 31, 2022 and was less than the stated LIFO cost by $13.6 million at December 31, 2021. As all LIFO inventory costs are collected from customers through our rate-regulated subsidiaries, no inventory impairment has been recorded. Gas inventory valued using the weighted average cost methodology was $488.7 million at December 31, 2022 and $282.4 million at December 31, 2021.
Electric production fuel is valued using the weighted average cost inventory methodology, as approved by NIPSCO's regulator.
Materials and supplies are valued using the weighted average cost inventory methodology.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
L. Accounting for Exchange and Balancing Arrangements of Natural Gas. Our Gas Distribution Operations segment enters into balancing and exchange arrangements of natural gas as part of its operations and off-system sales programs. We record a receivable or payable for any of our respective cumulative gas imbalances, as well as for any gas inventory borrowed or lent under a Gas Distribution Operations exchange agreement. Exchange gas is valued based on individual regulatory jurisdiction requirements (for example, historical spot rate, spot at the beginning of the month). These receivables and payables are recorded as “Exchange gas receivable” or “Exchange gas payable” on our Consolidated Balance Sheets, as appropriate.
M. Accounting for Risk Management Activities. We account for our derivatives and hedging activities in accordance with ASC 815. We recognize all derivatives as either assets or liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets at fair value, unless such contracts are exempted as a normal purchase normal sale under the provisions of the standard. The accounting for changes in the fair value of a derivative depends on the intended use of the derivative and resulting designation.
We do not offset the fair value amounts recognized for any of our derivative instruments against the fair value amounts recognized for the right to reclaim cash collateral or obligation to return cash collateral for derivative instruments executed with the same counterparty under a master netting arrangement. See Note 10, "Risk Management Activities," for additional information.
N. Income Taxes and Investment Tax Credits. We record income taxes to recognize full interperiod tax allocations.Under the asset and liability method, deferred income taxes are provided for the tax consequences of temporary differences by applying enacted statutory tax rates applicable to future years endedto differences between the financial statement carrying amount and the tax basis of existing assets and liabilities. Investment tax credits associated with regulated operations are deferred and amortized as a reduction to income tax expense over the estimated useful lives of the related properties.
To the extent certain deferred income taxes of the regulated companies are recoverable or payable through future rates, regulatory assets and liabilities have been established. Regulatory assets for income taxes are primarily attributable to property-related tax timing differences for which deferred taxes had not been provided in the past when regulators did not recognize such taxes as costs in the rate-making process. Regulatory liabilities for income taxes are primarily attributable to the regulated companies’ obligation to refund to ratepayers deferred income taxes provided at rates higher than the current Federal income tax rate. Such property-related amounts are credited to ratepayers using either the average rate assumption method or the reverse South Georgia method. Non property-related amounts are credited to ratepayers consistent with state utility commission direction.
Pursuant to the Internal Revenue Code and relevant state taxing authorities, we and our subsidiaries file consolidated income tax returns for federal and certain state jurisdictions. We and our subsidiaries are parties to a tax sharing agreement. Income taxes recorded by each party represent amounts that would be owed had the party been separately subject to tax.
O. Pension Remeasurement. We utilize a third-party actuary for the purpose of performing actuarial valuations of our defined benefit plans. Annually, as of December 31, 2019we perform a remeasurement for our pension plans. Quarterly, we monitor for significant events, and 2018if a significant event is identified, we perform a qualitative and quantitative assessment to determine if the resulting remeasurement would materially impact the NiSource financial statements. If material, an interim remeasurement is performed. We had one such interim remeasurement in the second quarter of 2022. See Note 12, "Pension and Other Postemployment Benefits," for additional information.
P. Environmental Expenditures. We accrue for costs associated with environmental remediation obligations, including expenditures related to asset retirement obligations and cost of removal, when the incurrence of such costs is probable and the amounts can be reasonably estimated, regardless of when the expenditures are actually made. The undiscounted estimated future expenditures are based on currently enacted laws and regulations, existing technology and estimated site-specific costs where assumptions may be made about the nature and extent of site contamination, the extent of cleanup efforts, costs of alternative cleanup methods and other variables. The liability is adjusted as if it had been prepared under historic accounting guidance. We included operating revenuefurther information is discovered or circumstances change. The accruals for estimated environmental expenditures are recorded on the Consolidated Balance Sheets in “Other accruals” for short-term portions of these liabilities and “Other noncurrent liabilities” for the year ended December 31, 2017respective long-term portions of these liabilities. Rate-regulated subsidiaries applying regulatory accounting establish regulatory assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets to the extent that future recovery of environmental remediation costs is probable through the regulatory process. Refer to Note 8, "Asset Retirement Obligations," and Note 19, "Other Commitments and Contingencies," for comparability.further information.
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Year Ended December 31, (in millions) | | 2019 | | 2018 | | 2017 |
Operating Revenues | | | | | | |
Gas Distribution | | $ | 2,336.1 |
| | $ | 2,348.4 |
| | $ | 2,063.2 |
|
Gas Transportation | | 1,171.3 |
| | 1,055.2 |
| | 1,021.5 |
|
Electric | | 1,698.5 |
| | 1,707.4 |
| | 1,785.5 |
|
Other | | 3.0 |
| | 3.5 |
| | 4.4 |
|
Total Operating Revenues | | $ | 5,208.9 |
| | $ | 5,114.5 |
| | $ | 4,874.6 |
|
67
Beginning in 2018NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
Q. Excise Taxes. As an agent for some state and local governments, we invoice and collect certain excise taxes levied by state and local governments on customers and record these amounts as liabilities payable to the applicable taxing jurisdiction. Such balances are presented within "Other accruals" on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. These types of taxes collected from customers, comprised largely of sales taxes, are presented on a net basis affecting neither revenues nor cost of sales. We account for excise taxes for which we are liable by recording a liability for the expected tax with the adoption of ASC 606,a corresponding charge to “Other taxes” expense on the Statements of Consolidated Income (Loss) disaggregates “Customer revenues”.
R. Accrued Insurance Liabilities. We accrue for insurance costs related to workers compensation, automobile, property, general and employment practices liabilities based on the most probable value of each claim. In general, claim values are determined by professional, licensed loss adjusters who consider the facts of the claim, anticipated indemnification and legal expenses, and respective state rules. Claims are reviewed by us at least quarterly and an adjustment is made to the accrual based on the most current information.
S. VIEs and Allocation of Earnings. We fund a significant portion of our renewable generation assets through JVs with tax equity partners. We consolidate these JVs in accordance with ASC 810 as they are VIEs in which we hold a variable interest, and we control decisions that are significant to the JVs' ongoing operations and economic results (i.e., we are the primary beneficiary).
These JVs are subject to profit sharing arrangements in which the allocation of the JVs' cash distributions and tax benefits to members is based on factors other than members' relative ownership percentages. As such, we utilize the HLBV method to allocate proceeds to each partner at the balance sheet date based on the liquidation provisions of the related JV's operating agreement and adjusts the amount of the VIE's net income attributable to us and the noncontrolling tax equity member during the period.
In each reporting period, the application of HLBV to our consolidated VIEs results in a difference between the amount of profit from the consolidated JVs and the amount included in regulated rates. As discussed above in "F. Basis of Accounting for Rate-Regulated Subsidiaries," we are subject to the accounting and reporting requirements of ASC 606 Revenues)980. In accordance with these principles, we recognize a regulatory liability or asset for amounts representing the timing difference between the profit earned from “Other revenues,” boththe JVs and the amount included in regulated rates to recover our approved investments in consolidated JVs. The amounts recorded in income will ultimately reflect the amount allowed in regulated rates to recover our investments over the useful life of the projects. The offset to the regulatory liability or asset associated with our renewable investments included in regulated rates is recorded in "Depreciation expense" on the Statements of Consolidated Income (Loss).
2. Recent Accounting Pronouncements
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
We have evaluated recently issued accounting pronouncements and do not believe any pronouncements will have a significant impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements or Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
In March 2020, the FASB issued ASU 2020-04, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting and in January 2021, the FASB issuedASU 2021-01, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Scope. These pronouncements provide temporary optional expedients and exceptions for applying GAAP principles to contract modifications and hedging relationships to ease the financial reporting burdens of the expected market transition from LIBOR and other interbank offered rates to alternative reference rates. These pronouncements were effective upon issuance on March 12, 2020 through December 31, 2022. In December 2022, the FASB issued ASU 2022-06, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Deferral of the Sunset Date of Topic 848, to extend the temporary accounting rules under Topic 848 from December 31, 2022 to December 31, 2024, after which entities will no longer be permitted to apply the relief in Topic
848. During the third quarter of 2022, the company applied the practical expedient under Topic 848 which allowed for the continuation of cash flow hedge accounting for interest rate derivative contracts upon the transition from LIBOR to alternative reference rates. The application of this expedient had no material impact on the Consolidated Financial Statements.
In November 2021, the FASB issued ASU 2021-10, Government Assistance (Topic 832): Disclosures by Business Entities about Government Assistance. This pronouncement requires certain annual disclosures for transactions with a government that are discussedaccounted for by applying a grant or contribution accounting model by analogy to other accounting guidance. This pronouncement is effective for financial statements issued for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2021. The company
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
adopted this pronouncement in more detail below.the fourth quarter of 2022. The adoption of this pronouncement did not have an impact on the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
In September 2022, the FASB issued ASU 2022-04, Liabilities-Supplier Finance Programs (Topic 405-50) - Disclosure of Supplier Finance Program Obligations. This pronouncement requires that a buyer in a supplier finance program disclose sufficient information to allow a user of financial statements to understand the program’s nature, activity during the period, changes from period to period, and potential magnitude. This pronouncement is expected to improve financial reporting by requiring new disclosures about supplier finance programs, thereby allowing financial statement users to better consider the effect of such programs on an entity’s working capital, liquidity, and cash flows. This pronouncement is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2022. The company adopted this pronouncement as of January 1, 2023. We had no active supplier finance programs as of December 31, 2022.
3. Revenue Recognition
Customer Revenues. Substantially all of our revenues are tariff-based, which we have concluded is within the scope of ASC 606.tariff-based. Under ASC 606, the recipients of our utility service meet the definition of a customer, while the operating company tariffs represent an agreement that meets the definition of a contract. ASC 606 defines a contract, as an agreement between two or more parties, in this case us and the customer, which creates enforceable rights and obligations. In order to be considered a contract, we have determined that it is probable that substantially all of the consideration to which we are entitled from customers will be collected upon satisfaction of performance obligations. We maintain common utility credit risk mitigation practices, including requiring deposits and actively pursuing collection of past due amounts. In addition, our regulated operations utilize certain regulatory mechanisms that facilitate recovery of bad debt costs within tariff-based rates, which provides further evidence of collectibility.
Customers in certain of our jurisdictions participate in programs that allow for a fixed payment each month regardless of usage. Payments received that exceed the value of gas or electricity actually delivered are recorded as a liability and presented in "Customer Deposits and Credits" on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Amounts in this account are reduced and revenue is recorded when customer usage begins to exceedexceeds payments received.
We have identified our performance obligations created under tariff-based sales as 1) the commodity (natural gas or electricity, which includes generation and capacity) and 2) delivery. These commodities are sold and / or delivered to and generally consumed by customers simultaneously, leading to satisfaction of our performance obligations over time as gas or electricity is delivered to customers. Due to the at-will nature of utility customers, performance obligations are limited to the services requested and received to date. Once complete, we generally maintain no additional performance obligations.
Transaction prices for each performance obligation are generally prescribed by each operating company’s respective tariff. Rates include provisions to adjust billings for fluctuations in fuel and purchased power costs and cost of natural gas. Revenues are adjusted for differences between actual costs, subject to reconciliation, and the amounts billed in current rates. Under or over recovered revenues related to these cost recovery mechanisms are included in "Regulatory Assets" or "Regulatory Liabilities" on the Consolidated Balance Sheets and are recovered from or returned to customers through adjustments to tariff rates. As we provide and deliver service to customers, revenue is recognized based on the transaction price allocated to each performance obligation. In general,Distribution revenues are generally considered daily or "at-will" contracts as customers may cancel their service at any time (subject to notification requirements), and revenue recognized from tariff-based sales is equivalentgenerally represents the amount we are entitled to the value of natural gas or electricity supplied and billed each period, in addition to an estimate for deliveries completed during the period but not yet billed to the customer.bill customers.
In addition to tariff-based sales, our Gas Distribution Operations segment enters into balancing and exchange arrangements of natural gas as part of our operations and off-system sales programs. We have concluded that these sales are within the scope of ASC 606. Performance obligations for these types of sales include transportation and storage of natural gas and can be satisfied at a point in time or over a period of time, depending on the specific transaction. For those transactions that span a period of time, we record a receivable or payable for any cumulative gas imbalances, as well as for any gas inventory borrowed or lent under a Gas Distributions Operations exchange agreement.
Revenue Disaggregation and Reconciliation. We disaggregate revenue from contracts with customers based upon reportable segment as well as by customer class. As our revenues are primarily earned over a period of time, and we do not earn a material amount of revenues at a point in time, revenues are not disaggregated as such below. The Gas Distribution Operations segment provides natural gas service and transportation for residential, commercial and industrial customers in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia,
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
Kentucky, Maryland, Indiana and Massachusetts. The Electric Operations segment provides electric service in 20 counties in the northern part of Indiana.
The tabletables below reconcilesreconcile revenue disaggregation by customer class to segment revenue, as well as to revenues reflected on the Statements of Consolidated Income (Loss):
| | Year Ended December 31, 2019 (in millions) | Gas Distribution Operations | | Electric Operations | | Corporate and Other | | Total | |
Year Ended December 31, 2022 (in millions) | | Year Ended December 31, 2022 (in millions) | Gas Distribution Operations | | Electric Operations | | Corporate and Other(2) | | Total |
Customer Revenues(1) | | | | | | | | Customer Revenues(1) | |
Residential | $ | 2,309.0 |
| | $ | 481.6 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 2,790.6 |
| Residential | $ | 2,609.7 | | | $ | 592.4 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 3,202.1 | |
Commercial | 771.3 |
| | 486.6 |
| | — |
| | 1,257.9 |
| Commercial | 939.6 | | | 571.0 | | | — | | | 1,510.6 | |
Industrial | 245.2 |
| | 607.7 |
| | — |
| | 852.9 |
| Industrial | 220.6 | | | 560.6 | | | — | | | 781.2 | |
Off-system | 77.7 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 77.7 |
| Off-system | 192.9 | | | — | | | — | | | 192.9 | |
Miscellaneous | 52.0 |
| | 21.5 |
| | 0.8 |
| | 74.3 |
| Miscellaneous | 40.3 | | | 11.5 | | | — | | | 51.8 | |
Total Customer Revenues | $ | 3,455.2 |
| | $ | 1,597.4 |
| | $ | 0.8 |
| | $ | 5,053.4 |
| Total Customer Revenues | $ | 4,003.1 | | | $ | 1,735.5 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 5,738.6 | |
Other Revenues | 54.5 |
| | 101.0 |
| | — |
| | 155.5 |
| Other Revenues | 4.1 | | | 95.4 | | | 12.5 | | | 112.0 | |
Total Operating Revenues | $ | 3,509.7 |
| | $ | 1,698.4 |
| | $ | 0.8 |
| | $ | 5,208.9 |
| Total Operating Revenues | $ | 4,007.2 | | | $ | 1,830.9 | | | $ | 12.5 | | | $ | 5,850.6 | |
(1)Customer revenue amounts exclude intersegment revenues. See Note 23, "Segments of Business,21, "Business Segment Information," for discussion of intersegment revenues.
(2)Other revenues related to the Transition Services Agreement entered into in connection with the sale of the Massachusetts Business, which was substantially completed as of June 30, 2022. | | Year Ended December 31, 2018 (in millions) | Gas Distribution Operations | | Electric Operations | | Corporate and Other | | Total | |
Year Ended December 31, 2021 (in millions) | | Year Ended December 31, 2021 (in millions) | Gas Distribution Operations | | Electric Operations | | Corporate and Other(2) | | Total |
Customer Revenues(1) | | | | | | | | Customer Revenues(1) | |
Residential | $ | 2,250.0 |
| | $ | 494.7 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 2,744.7 |
| Residential | $ | 2,109.4 | | | $ | 567.9 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 2,677.3 | |
Commercial | 751.9 |
| | 492.7 |
| | — |
| | 1,244.6 |
| Commercial | 722.4 | | | 534.9 | | | — | | | 1,257.3 | |
Industrial | 228.0 |
| | 613.6 |
| | — |
| | 841.6 |
| Industrial | 195.7 | | | 493.4 | | | — | | | 689.1 | |
Off-system | 92.4 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 92.4 |
| Off-system | 71.3 | | | — | | | — | | | 71.3 | |
Miscellaneous | 49.7 |
| | 17.4 |
| | 0.7 |
| | 67.8 |
| Miscellaneous | 27.3 | | | 8.2 | | | 0.8 | | | 36.3 | |
Total Customer Revenues | $ | 3,372.0 |
| | $ | 1,618.4 |
| | $ | 0.7 |
| | $ | 4,991.1 |
| Total Customer Revenues | $ | 3,126.1 | | | $ | 1,604.4 | | | $ | 0.8 | | | $ | 4,731.3 | |
Other Revenues | 34.4 |
| | 89.0 |
| | — |
| | 123.4 |
| Other Revenues | 45.1 | | | 91.9 | | | 31.3 | | | 168.3 | |
Total Operating Revenues | $ | 3,406.4 |
| | $ | 1,707.4 |
| | $ | 0.7 |
| | $ | 5,114.5 |
| Total Operating Revenues | $ | 3,171.2 | | | $ | 1,696.3 | | | $ | 32.1 | | | $ | 4,899.6 | |
(1)Customer revenue amounts exclude intersegment revenues. See Note 23, "Segments of Business,21, "Business Segment Information," for discussion of intersegment revenues.
Customer Accounts Receivable.(2) Accounts receivable on our Consolidated Balance Sheets includes both billed and unbilled amounts, as well as certain amounts that are notOther revenues related to customer revenues. Unbilled amounts of accounts receivable relate to a portion of a customer’s consumption of gas or electricity from the dateTransition Services Agreement entered into in connection with the sale of the last cycle billing throughMassachusetts Business.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Year Ended December 31, 2020 (in millions) | Gas Distribution Operations | | Electric Operations | | Corporate and Other(2) | | Total |
Customer Revenues(1) | | | | | | | |
Residential | $ | 2,075.0 | | | $ | 527.8 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 2,602.8 | |
Commercial | 670.5 | | | 480.3 | | | — | | | 1,150.8 | |
Industrial | 212.8 | | | 412.1 | | | — | | | 624.9 | |
Off-system | 41.0 | | | — | | | — | | | 41.0 | |
Miscellaneous | 32.7 | | | 20.2 | | | 0.8 | | | 53.7 | |
Total Customer Revenues | $ | 3,032.0 | | | $ | 1,440.4 | | | $ | 0.8 | | | $ | 4,473.2 | |
Other Revenues | 96.1 | | | 95.5 | | | 16.9 | | | 208.5 | |
Total Operating Revenues | $ | 3,128.1 | | | $ | 1,535.9 | | | $ | 17.7 | | | $ | 4,681.7 | |
(1)Customer revenue amounts exclude intersegment revenues. See Note 21, "Business Segment Information," for discussion of intersegment revenues.
(2)Other revenues related to the last dayTransition Services Agreement entered into in connection with the sale of the month (balance sheet date). Factors taken into consideration when estimating unbilled revenue include historical usage, customer rates and weather. The opening and closing balances of customer receivables for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018 are presented in the table below. We had no significant contract assets or liabilities during the period. Additionally, we have not incurred any significant costs to obtain or fulfill contracts.Massachusetts Business.
|
| | | | | | | |
(in millions) | Customer Accounts Receivable, Billed (less reserve)(1) | | Customer Accounts Receivable, Unbilled (less reserve) |
Balance as of December 31, 2018 | $ | 540.5 |
| | $ | 349.1 |
|
Balance as of December 31, 2019 | 466.6 |
| | 346.6 |
|
Decrease | $ | (73.9 | ) | | $ | (2.5 | ) |
(1) Customer billed receivables decreased due to decreased natural gas costs and warmer weather in 2019 compared to 2018.
Utility revenues are billed to customers monthly on a cycle basis. We generally expect that substantially all customer accounts receivable will be collected within the month following customer billing, as this revenue consists primarily of monthly, tariff-based billings for service and usage.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
Other Revenues. As permitted by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, regulated utilities have the ability to earn certain types of revenue that are outside the scope of ASC 606. These revenues primarily represent revenue earned under alternative revenue programs. Alternative revenue programs represent regulator-approved programsmechanisms that allow for the adjustment of billings and revenue for certain broad, external factors, or for additional billings if the entity achieves certain objectives, such as a specified reduction of costs.approved programs. We maintain a variety of these programs, including
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
demand side management initiatives that recover costs associated with the implementation of energy efficiency programs, as well as normalization programs that adjust revenues for the effects of weather or other external factors. Additionally, we maintain certain programs with future test periods that operate similarly to FERC formula rate programs and allow for recovery of costs incurred to replace aging infrastructure. When the criteria to recognize alternative revenue have been met, we establish a regulatory asset and present revenue from alternative revenue programs on the Statements of Consolidated Income (Loss) as “Other revenues.”revenues”. When amounts previously recognized under alternative revenue accounting guidance are billed, we reduce the regulatory asset and record a customer account receivable.
4. Earnings Per Share
Basic EPS is computed by dividing net income attributableCustomer Accounts Receivable. Accounts receivable on our Consolidated Balance Sheets includes both billed and unbilled amounts, as well as certain amounts that are not related to common shareholders bycustomer revenues. Unbilled amounts of accounts receivable relate to a portion of a customer’s consumption of gas or electricity from the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding for the period. The weighted-average shares outstanding for diluted EPS includes the incremental effectsdate of the various long-term incentive compensation planslast cycle billing through the last day of the month (balance sheet date). Factors taken into consideration when estimating unbilled revenue include historical usage, customer rates and forward agreements whenweather. A significant portion of our operations are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales. During the impactheating season, primarily from November through March, revenues and receivables from gas sales are more significant than in other months. The opening and closing balances of such plans and agreements would be dilutive. The calculation of diluted earnings per sharecustomer receivables for the year ended December 31, 2018 does2022, are presented in the table below. We had no significant contract assets or liabilities during the period. Additionally, we have not includeincurred any dilutive potentialsignificant costs to obtain or fulfill contracts.
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
(in millions) | Customer Accounts Receivable, Billed (less reserve) | | Customer Accounts Receivable, Unbilled (less reserve) | |
Balance as of December 31, 2021 | $ | 459.6 | | | $ | 337.0 | | |
Balance as of December 31, 2022 | 560.5 | | | 453.0 | | |
| | | | |
Utility revenues are billed to customers monthly on a cycle basis. We expect that substantially all customer accounts receivable will be collected following customer billing, as this revenue consists primarily of periodic, tariff-based billings for service and usage. We maintain common sharesutility credit risk mitigation practices, including requiring deposits and actively pursuing collection of past due amounts. Our regulated operations also utilize certain regulatory mechanisms that facilitate recovery of bad debt costs within tariff-based rates, which provides further evidence of collectibility. It is probable that substantially all of the consideration to which we are entitled from customers will be collected upon satisfaction of performance obligations.
Allowance for Credit Losses. To evaluate for expected credit losses, customer account receivables are pooled based on similar risk characteristics, such as customer type, geography, payment terms, and related macro-economic risks. Expected credit losses are established using a model that considers historical collections experience, current information, and reasonable and supportable forecasts. Internal and external inputs are used in our credit model including, but not limited to, energy consumption trends, revenue projections, actual charge-offs data, recoveries data, shut-offs, customer delinquencies, final bill data, and inflation. We continuously evaluate available information relevant to assessing collectability of current and future receivables. We evaluate creditworthiness of specific customers periodically or following changes in facts and circumstances. When we hadbecome aware of a net loss on the Statements of Consolidated Income (Loss)specific commercial or industrial customer's inability to pay, an allowance for that period, and any incremental shares would have had an anti-dilutive impact on EPS. The calculation of diluted earnings per shareexpected credit losses is recorded for the year ended December 31, 2017 excludes the impactrelevant amount. We also monitor other circumstances that could affect our overall expected credit losses; including, but not limited to, creditworthiness of forward agreements, which hadoverall population in service territories, adverse conditions impacting an anti-dilutive effect for that period. The computation of diluted average common shares is as follows:industry sector, and current economic conditions.
|
| | | | | | | | |
Year Ended December 31, (in thousands) | 2019 | | 2018 | | 2017 |
Denominator | | | | | |
Basic average common shares outstanding | 374,650 |
| | 356,491 |
| | 329,388 |
|
Dilutive potential common shares: | | | | | |
Shares contingently issuable under employee stock plans | 929 |
| | — |
| | 547 |
|
Shares restricted under stock plans | 154 |
| | — |
| | 821 |
|
Forward agreements | 253 |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Diluted Average Common Shares | 375,986 |
| | 356,491 |
| | 330,756 |
|
71
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
At each reporting period, we record expected credit losses to an allowance for credit losses account. When deemed to be uncollectible, customer accounts are written-off. A rollforward of our allowance for credit losses as of December 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, are presented in the tables below:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
(in millions) | Gas Distribution Operations | | Electric Operations | | Corporate and Other | | Total |
Balance as of January 1, 2022 | $ | 18.9 | | | $ | 3.8 | | | $ | 0.8 | | | $ | 23.5 | |
Current period provisions | 29.1 | | | 6.9 | | | — | | | 36.0 | |
Write-offs charged against allowance | (52.1) | | | (5.3) | | | — | | | (57.4) | |
Recoveries of amounts previously written off | 21.3 | | | 0.5 | | | — | | | 21.8 | |
Balance as of December 31, 2022 | $ | 17.2 | | | $ | 5.9 | | | $ | 0.8 | | | $ | 23.9 | |
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
(in millions) | Gas Distribution Operations | | Electric Operations | | Corporate and Other | | Total |
Balance as of January 1, 2021 | $ | 41.8 | | | $ | 9.7 | | | $ | 0.8 | | | $ | 52.3 | |
Current period provisions | 5.8 | | | 1.4 | | | — | | | 7.2 | |
Write-offs charged against allowance | (46.7) | | | (7.7) | | | — | | | (54.4) | |
Recoveries of amounts previously written off | 18.0 | | | 0.4 | | | — | | | 18.4 | |
Balance as of December 31, 2021 | $ | 18.9 | | | $ | 3.8 | | | $ | 0.8 | | | $ | 23.5 | |
|
In connection with the COVID-19 pandemic, certain state regulatory commissions instituted regulatory moratoriums that impacted our ability to pursue our standard credit risk mitigation practices. Following the issuance of these moratoriums, certain of our regulated operations have been authorized to recognize a regulatory asset for bad debt costs above levels currently recovered in rates. At the balance sheet date, in addition to our evaluation of the allowance for credit losses discussed above, we considered benefits available under governmental COVID-19 relief programs, the impact of unemployment benefits initiatives, and flexible payment plans being offered to customers affected by or experiencing hardship as a result of the pandemic, which could help to mitigate the potential for increasing customer account delinquencies. We also considered the on-time bill payment promotion and robust customer marketing strategy for energy assistance programs that we have implemented. Based upon this evaluation, we have concluded that the allowance for credit losses as of December 31, 2022 adequately reflected the collection risk and net realizable value of our receivables. See Note 9, "Regulatory Matters," for additional information on regulatory moratoriums and regulatory assets.
4. Variable Interest Entities
A VIE is an entity in which the controlling interest is determined through means other than a majority voting interest. Refer to Note 1, "Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - S. VIEs and Allocation of Earnings," for information on our accounting policy for the VIEs.
NIPSCO owns and operates two wind facilities, Rosewater and Indiana Crossroads Wind, which have 102 MW and 302 MW of nameplate capacity, respectively. NIPSCO also owns one solar facility, which is expected to go into service in 2023, Indiana Crossroads Solar, which has 200 MW of nameplate capacity. We control decisions that are significant to these entities' ongoing operations and economic results. Therefore, we have concluded that we are the primary beneficiary and have consolidated all three entities.
Members of the respective JVs are NIPSCO (who is the managing member) and tax equity partners. Earnings, tax attributes and cash flows are allocated to both NIPSCO and the tax equity partner in varying percentages by category and over the life of the partnership. NIPSCO and each tax equity partner contributed cash, and NIPSCO also assumed an obligation to the developers of the wind facilities representing the remaining economic interest. The developers of the wind facilities are not a partner in the JV for federal income tax purposes and do not receive any share of earnings, tax attributes, or cash flows of each JV. Once the tax equity partner has earned their negotiated rate of return and we have reached the agreed upon contractual date, NIPSCO has the option to purchase at fair market value from the tax equity partner the remaining interest in the respective JV. NIPSCO has an obligation to purchase, through a PPA at established market rates, 100% of the electricity generated by the JVs.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
The following table displays the total contributions paid and obligations incurred in the periods presented:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(in millions) | December 31, 2022 | | December 31, 2021 | | December 31, 2020 |
NIPSCO Cash Contributions | $ | 151.8 | | | $ | 2.8 | | | $ | 0.7 | |
Tax Equity Partner Cash Contributions | 21.2 | | | 245.1 | | | 86.1 | |
NIPSCO's Obligation to Developer(1) | — | | | 277.5 | | | 69.7 | |
Total Contributions | $ | 173.0 | | | $ | 525.4 | | | $ | 156.5 | |
(1) Outstanding amounts in "Obligations to renewable generation asset developer" in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
We did not provide any financial or other support during the year that was not previously contractually required, nor do we expect to provide such support in the future.
Our Consolidated Balance Sheets included the following assets and liabilities associated with VIEs.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
(in millions) | December 31, 2022 | | December 31, 2021 |
Net Property, Plant and Equipment | $ | 978.5 | | | $ | 695.9 | |
Current assets | 25.7 | | | 14.3 | |
| | | |
Total assets(1) | 1,004.2 | | | 710.2 | |
Current liabilities | 128.2 | | | 10.0 | |
Asset retirement obligations | 30.6 | | | 20.5 | |
| | | |
Total liabilities | $ | 158.8 | | | $ | 30.5 | |
(1)The assets of each VIE represent assets of a consolidated VIE that can be used only to settle obligations of the respective consolidated VIE. The creditors of the liabilities of the VIEss do not have recourse to the general credit of the primary beneficiary.
5. Earnings Per Share
The calculations of basic and diluted EPS are based on the weighted average number of shares of common stock and potential common stock outstanding during the period. For the purposes of determining diluted EPS, the shares underlying the purchase contracts included within the Equity Units were included in the calculation of potential common stock outstanding for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021 using the if-converted method under US GAAP. This method assumes conversion at the beginning of the reporting period, or at time of issuance, if later. For the purchase contracts, the number of shares of our common stock that would be issuable at the end of each reporting period will be reflected in the denominator of our diluted EPS calculation. If the stock price falls below the initial reference price of $24.51, subject to anti-dilution adjustments, the number of shares of our common stock used in calculating diluted EPS will be the maximum number of shares per the contract as described in Note 13, "Equity." Conversely, if the stock price is above the initial reference price of $24.51, subject to anti-dilution adjustments, a variable number of shares of our common stock will be used in calculating diluted EPS. A numerator adjustment was reflected in the calculation of diluted EPS for interest expense incurred in 2022 and 2021, net of tax, related to the purchase contracts.
We adopted ASU 2020-06 on January 1, 2022, which resulted in additional dilution from our Equity Units by requiring us to assume share settlement of the remaining purchase contract payment balance based on the average share price during the period.
The shares underlying the Series C Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock included within the Equity Units are contingently convertible as the conversion is contingent on a successful remarketing as described in Note 13, "Equity." Contingently convertible shares where conversion is not tied to a market price trigger are excluded from the calculation of diluted EPS until such time as the contingency has been resolved under the if-converted method. As of December 31, 2022 and 2021, the contingency was not resolved and thus no shares were reflected in the denominator in the calculation of diluted EPS for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
Diluted EPS also includes the incremental effects of the various long-term incentive compensation plans and the open ATM forward agreements during the period under the treasury stock method when the impact would be dilutive. Refer to Note 13, "Equity," for more information on our ATM forward agreements.
For the year ended December 31, 2020, we had a net loss on the Statements of Consolidated Income (Loss) during the period, and any potentially dilutive shares would have had an anti-dilutive impact on EPS. The following table presents the calculation of our basic and diluted EPS:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Year Ended December 31, (in millions, except per share amounts) | 2022 | | 2021 | | 2020 |
Numerator: | | | | | |
Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Shareholders - Basic | $ | 749.0 | | | $ | 529.8 | | | $ | (72.7) | |
Dilutive effect of Equity Units | 2.0 | | | 1.6 | | | — | |
Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Shareholders - Diluted | $ | 751.0 | | | $ | 531.4 | | | $ | (72.7) | |
Denominator: | | | | | |
Average common shares outstanding - Basic | 407.1 | | | 393.6 | | | 384.3 | |
Dilutive potential common shares: | | | | | |
Equity Units purchase contracts | 30.2 | | | 22.0 | | | — | |
Equity Units purchase contract payment balance | 3.2 | | | — | | | — | |
Shares contingently issuable under employee stock plans | 0.9 | | | 0.8 | | | — | |
Shares restricted under employee stock plans | 0.5 | | | 0.3 | | | — | |
ATM Forward agreements | 0.8 | | | 0.6 | | | — | |
Average Common Shares - Diluted | 442.7 | | | 417.3 | | | 384.3 | |
Earnings per common share: | | | | | |
Basic | $ | 1.84 | | | $ | 1.35 | | | $ | (0.19) | |
Diluted | $ | 1.70 | | | $ | 1.27 | | | $ | (0.19) | |
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
6. Property, Plant and Equipment
Our property, plant and equipment on the Consolidated Balance Sheets are classified as follows:
|
| | | | | | | |
At December 31, (in millions) | 2019 | | 2018 |
Property, Plant and Equipment | | | |
Gas Distribution Utility(1) | $ | 14,989.7 |
| | $ | 13,776.0 |
|
Electric Utility(1) | 8,902.3 |
| | 8,374.2 |
|
Corporate | 153.3 |
| | 155.8 |
|
Construction Work in Process | 457.3 |
| | 474.8 |
|
Non-Utility and Other | 39.3 |
| | 38.7 |
|
Total Property, Plant and Equipment | $ | 24,541.9 |
| | $ | 22,819.5 |
|
Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization | | | |
Gas Distribution Utility(1) | $ | (3,556.0 | ) | | $ | (3,373.8 | ) |
Electric Utility(1) | (3,973.8 | ) | | (3,809.5 | ) |
Corporate | (79.5 | ) | | (74.6 | ) |
Non-Utility and Other | (20.4 | ) | | (19.1 | ) |
Total Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization | $ | (7,629.7 | ) | | $ | (7,277.0 | ) |
Net Property, Plant and Equipment | $ | 16,912.2 |
| | $ | 15,542.5 |
|
| | | | | | | | | | | |
At December 31, (in millions) | 2022 | | 2021 |
Property, Plant and Equipment | | | |
Gas Distribution Utility(1) | $ | 16,576.4 | | | $ | 15,240.6 | |
Electric Utility(1) | 7,162.4 | | | 6,754.9 | |
Corporate | 271.7 | | | 217.8 | |
Construction Work in Process | 1,398.2 | | | 808.0 | |
Renewable Generation Assets(2) | 702.2 | | | 702.4 | |
Non-Utility and Other | 1,440.4 | | | 1,447.6 | |
Total Property, Plant and Equipment | $ | 27,551.3 | | | $ | 25,171.3 | |
Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization | | | |
Gas Distribution Utility(1) | $ | (3,678.1) | | | $ | (3,490.2) | |
Electric Utility(1) | (2,557.4) | | | (2,433.1) | |
Corporate | (160.0) | | | (132.2) | |
Renewable Generation Assets(2) | (29.7) | | | (6.5) | |
Non-Utility and Other | (1,283.5) | | | (1,227.5) | |
Total Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization | $ | (7,708.7) | | | $ | (7,289.5) | |
Net Property, Plant and Equipment | $ | 19,842.6 | | | $ | 17,881.8 | |
(1)NIPSCO’s common utility plant and associated accumulated depreciation and amortization are allocated between Gas Distribution Utility and Electric Utility Property, Plant and Equipment.
(2)Our renewable generation assets are part of our electric segment and represent Non-Utility Property, owned and operated by JVs between NIPSCO and unrelated tax equity partners, and depreciated straight-line over 30 years. Refer to Note 4, "Variable Interest Entities," for additional information.
On October 1, 2021, NIPSCO retired R.M. Schahfer Generating Station Units 14 and 15. The net book value of the retired units was reclassified from "Net Property, Plant and Equipment," to current and long-term ''Regulatory Assets.'' The estimated net book value of R.M. Schahfer Generating Station's coal Units 14 and 15 and other associated plant retired was approximately $600.0 million. See Note 9, "Regulatory Matters," for additional details regarding the recovery of the regulatory assets associated with retired generating stations.
The weighted average depreciation provisions for utility plant, as a percentage of the original cost, for the periods ended December 31, 2019, 20182022, 2021 and 20172020 were as follows:
|
| | | | | | | | |
| 2019 | | 2018 | | 2017 |
Electric Operations(1) | 2.8 | % | | 2.9 | % | | 3.4 | % |
Gas Distribution Operations | 2.5 | % | | 2.2 | % | | 2.1 | % |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2022 | | 2021 | | 2020 |
Electric Operations | 3.1 | % | | 3.4 | % | | 3.4 | % |
Gas Distribution Operations | 2.3 | % | | 2.2 | % | | 2.3 | % |
(1)Lower depreciation rate beginning in 2018 due to reduced EERM-related depreciation expense and higher depreciable base from transmission assets being placed into service in 2018.
We recognized depreciation expense of $612.2$685.0 million, $503.4$672.1 million and $501.5$655.6 million for the years ended 2019, 20182022, 2021 and 2017,2020, respectively. The 2022 and 2021 depreciation expense amounts include an $11.0 million and $5.3 million increase related to the regulatory deferral of income (loss) associated with our JVs, which is not included in current rates. See Note 9, "Regulatory Matters," for additional details.
Amortization of on-premise Software Costs. We amortized $55.5$53.1 million, $54.1$49.4 million and $44.0$56.7 million in 2019, 20182022, 2021 and 2017,2020, respectively, related to software costs.recorded as intangible assets. Our unamortized software balance was $169.6$190.1 million and $159.5$181.8 million at December 31, 20192022 and 2018,2021, respectively.
Amortization of Cloud Computing Costs. We amortized $1.6$11.1 million, $10.0 million and $0.1$3.4 million in 20192022, 2021 and 2018,2020, respectively, related to cloud computing costs.costs to "Operation and maintenance" expense. Our unamortized cloud computing balance was $14.2$45.7 million and $4.9$42.4 million at December 31, 20192022 and 2018,2021, respectively.
6. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
Intangible and Other Long-Lived Assets Impairment. Our intangible assets, apart from goodwill, consist of franchise rights. Franchise rights were identified as part of the purchase price allocations associated with the acquisition in February 1999 of Columbia of Massachusetts. We review our definite-lived intangible assets, along with other long-lived assets (utility plant), for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate the assets' fair value might be below their carrying amount.
During the fourth quarter of 2019, in connection with the preparation of the year-end financial statements, we assessed the changes in circumstances that occurred during the quarter to determine if it was more likely than not that the fair value of our long-lived assets (including franchise rights) were below their carrying amount. While there was no single determinative event or factor, the consideration in totality of several factors that developed during the fourth quarter of 2019 led us to conclude that it was more likely than not that the fair value of the Columbia of Massachusetts reporting unit and the value of its long-lived assets was below
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
7. Goodwill
its carrying value. These factors included: (i) increased Massachusetts DPU regulatory enforcement activity related to Columbia of Massachusetts during the fourth quarter, including (a) an order imposing work restrictions on Columbia of Massachusetts, impacting Columbia of Massachusetts' infrastructure replacement program, (b) two orders opening public investigations into Columbia of Massachusetts related to the Greater Lawrence Incident and restoration efforts following the incident, and (c) an order defining the scope of the Massachusetts DPU's investigation into the preparation and response of Columbia of Massachusetts related to the incident; (ii) increased uncertainty as to the ability of Columbia of Massachusetts to execute its growth strategy, including utility infrastructure investments, and to obtain timely regulatory outcomes with reasonable rates of return; (iii) further damage to Columbia of Massachusetts' reputation as a result of concerns related to service lines abandoned during the restoration work following the Greater Lawrence Incident and the gas release event in Lawrence, Massachusetts on September 27, 2019; and (iv) the potential sale of the Massachusetts Business. See Note 19, "Other Commitments and Contingencies - C. Legal Proceedings" for more information regarding Massachusetts DPU regulatory enforcement activity. See Note 26, "Subsequent Event" for more information on the potential sale of the Massachusetts Business.
As a result, we performed a year-end impairment test of the held and used long-lived assets in which we compared the book value of the Columbia of Massachusetts asset group to its undiscounted future cash flow and determined the carrying value of the asset group was not recoverable. We estimated the fair value of the Columbia of Massachusetts asset group using a weighting of income and market approaches and determined that the fair value was less than the carrying value. This resulting impairment was allocated to reduce the entire franchise rights book value to its fair value of zero, which resulted in an impairment charge totaling $209.7 million recorded in the Gas Distribution Operations segment.
We also considered if any regulatory assets or ROU assets were probable of disallowance and determined no disallowances were probable. All of Columbia of Massachusetts' regulatory assets represent incurred costs probable of recovery.
As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the carrying amount of the franchise rights was $0.0 million and $220.7 million (net of accumulated amortization of $221.5 million), respectively. We recorded amortization expense of $11.0 million in 2019, 2018 and 2017 related to our franchise rights intangible asset.
Goodwill.Substantially all of our goodwill relates to the excess of cost over the fair value of the net assets acquired in the Columbia acquisition on November 1, 2000. The following presents ourOur goodwill balance allocated by segmentwas $1,485.9 million as of December 31, 20192022 and 2018:
|
| | | | | | | |
(in millions) | 2019 | | 2018 |
Gas Distribution Operations | $ | 1,485.9 |
| | $ | 1,690.7 |
|
Electric Operations | — |
| | — |
|
Corporate and Other | — |
| | — |
|
Total | $ | 1,485.9 |
| | $ | 1,690.7 |
|
2021. All our goodwill has been allocated to our Gas Distribution Operations segment.For our annual goodwill impairment analysis performed as of May 1, 2019,2022, we completed a qualitative "step 0" analysis for allassessment and determined that it was more likely than not that the estimated fair value of the reporting units other thanunit substantially exceeded the related carrying value of our Columbia of Massachusetts reporting unit. In the step 0 analysis,For this test, we assessed various assumptions, events and circumstances that would have affected the estimated fair value of the applicable reporting units as compared to theirthe baseline May 1, 2016 "step 1" fair value measurement. The results of this assessment indicated that it was not more likely than not that the fair values of these reporting units were less than their respective carrying values, accordingly, no "step 1" analysis was required.
The results of our Columbia of Massachusetts reporting unit were negatively impacted by the Greater Lawrence Incident (see Note 19-C, "Legal Proceedings"). As a result, we completed a quantitative "step 1" analysis for themeasurement performed May 1, 2019 goodwill analysis for this reporting unit. This analysis considered the progress Columbia of Massachusetts had made with its restoration efforts related to the Greater Lawrence Incident, including the replacement of previously repaired equipment and the settlement agreement with the three impacted municipalities, as well as the ability for Columbia of Massachusetts to sustain its infrastructure replacement growth strategy through GSEP and timely rate cases with reasonable rates of return. Consistent with our historical impairment testing of goodwill, fair value of the Columbia of Massachusetts reporting unit was determined based on a weighting of income and market approaches. These approaches require significant judgments, including appropriate long-term growth rates and discount rates for the income approach and appropriate multiples of earnings for peer companies and control premiums for the market approach. These approaches also incorporate the latest available cash flow projections reflecting the estimated ongoing impacts of the Greater Lawrence Incident on Columbia of Massachusetts’ operations. The discount rates were derived using peer company2020.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
data compiled with the assistance of a third party valuation services firm. The discount rates used are subject to change based on changes in tax rates at both the state and federal level, debt and equity ratios at each reporting unit and general economic conditions. The long-term growth rate was derived by evaluating historic growth rates, new business and investment opportunities beyond the near term horizon. The long-term growth rate is subject to change depending on inflationary impacts to the U.S. economy and the individual business environments in which each reporting unit operates. The step 1 analysis performed indicated that the fair value of the Columbia of Massachusetts reporting unit exceeds its carrying value. As a result, no impairment charge was recorded as of the May 1, 2019 test date.
Although our annual impairment test is performed during the second quarter, we continue to monitor changes in circumstances that may indicate that it is more likely than not that the fair value of our reporting units is less than the reporting unit carrying value. During the fourth quarter of 2019, in connection with the preparation of the year-end financial statements, we assessed the matters related to Columbia of Massachusetts. These factors were the same fourth quarter circumstances outlined in the intangible and other long-lived assets impairment above.
As a result, a new impairment analysis was required for our Columbia of Massachusetts reporting unit. Consistent with the May 1, 2019 test, fair value of this reporting unit was determined based on a weighting of income and market approaches. The income approach calculated discounted cash flows using updated cash flow projections, discount rates and return on equity assumptions. The market approach applied a combination of comparable company multiples and comparable transactions and used updated cash flow projections. While certain assumptions, such as market multiples, remained unchanged in the year-end test, our cash flow projections, return on equity and rate case assumptions were all unfavorably updated at year-end compared to the May 1, 2019 test. The effects of these unfavorable developments were greater than the favorable change in weighted average cost of capital between the two tests. The year-end impairment analysis indicated that the fair value of the Columbia of Massachusetts reporting unit was below its carrying value. As a result, we reduced the Columbia of Massachusetts reporting unit goodwill balance to zero and recognized a goodwill impairment charge totaling$204.8 million, which is non-deductible for tax purposes.
7. Asset Retirement Obligations
We have recognized asset retirement obligations associated with various legal obligations including costs to remove and dispose of certain construction materials located within many of our facilities (including our JV facilities), certain costs to retire pipeline, removal costs for certain underground storage tanks, removal of certain pipelines known to contain PCB contamination, closure costs for certain sites including ash ponds, solid waste management units and a landfill, as well as some other nominal asset retirement obligations. We also have a significantan obligation associated with the decommissioning of our two hydro facilities located in Indiana. These hydro facilities have an indeterminate life, and as such, no asset retirement obligation has been recorded.
Changes in our liability for asset retirement obligations for the years 20192022 and 20182021 are presented in the table below:
|
| | | | | | | | |
(in millions) | 2019 | | 2018 | |
Beginning Balance | $ | 352.0 |
| | $ | 268.7 |
| |
Accretion recorded as a regulatory asset/liability | 15.7 |
| | 11.1 |
| |
Additions | — |
| | 63.3 |
| (2) |
Settlements | (5.4 | ) | | (5.9 | ) | |
Change in estimated cash flows | 54.6 |
| (1) | 14.8 |
| (2) |
Ending Balance | $ | 416.9 |
| | $ | 352.0 |
| |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
(in millions) | 2022 | | 2021 |
Beginning Balance | $ | 512.4 | | | $ | 495.6 | |
Accretion recorded as a regulatory asset/liability | 17.1 | | | 16.0 | |
Additions | 9.5 | | | 23.2 | |
Settlements | (22.3) | | | (11.2) | |
Change in estimated cash flows | (3.2) | | | (11.2) | |
| | | |
Ending Balance | $ | 513.5 | | | $ | 512.4 | |
(1)The change in estimated cash flows for 2019 is primarily attributed to changes in estimated costs and settlement timing for electric generating stations and the changes in estimated costs for retirement of gas mains.
(2)In 2018, $59.8 million of additions and $17.7 million of the change in estimated cash flows are attributed to costs associated with refining the CCR compliance plan. See Note 19-D, "Environmental Matters," for additional information on CCRs.
Certain non-legal costs of removal that have been, and continue to be, included in depreciation rates and collected in the customer rates of the rate-regulated subsidiaries are classified as "Regulatory liabilities" on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
89. Regulatory Matters
Regulatory Assets and Liabilities
We follow the accounting and reporting requirements of ASC Topic 980, which provides that regulated entities account for and report assets and liabilities consistent with the economic effect of regulatory rate-making procedures ifwhen the rates established are
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
designed to recover the costs of providing the regulated service and it is probable that such rates canwill be charged and collected from customers. Certain expenses and credits subject to utility regulation or rate determination normally reflected in income or expense are deferred on the balance sheet and are recognized in the income statement as the related amounts are included in customer rates and recovered from or refunded to customers. We assess the probability of collection for all of our regulatory assets each period.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
Regulatory assets were comprised of the following items:
|
| | | | | | | |
At December 31, (in millions) | 2019 | | 2018 |
Regulatory Assets | | | |
Unrecognized pension and other postretirement benefit costs (see Note 11) | $ | 739.1 |
| | $ | 798.3 |
|
Deferred pension and other postretirement benefit costs (see Note 11) | 91.3 |
| | 74.1 |
|
Environmental costs (see Note 19-D) | 73.4 |
| | 61.5 |
|
Regulatory effects of accounting for income taxes (see Note 1-N and Note 10) | 234.0 |
| | 233.1 |
|
Under-recovered gas and fuel costs (see Note 1-J) | 3.9 |
| | 34.7 |
|
Depreciation | 210.7 |
| | 209.6 |
|
Post-in-service carrying charges | 219.8 |
| | 206.6 |
|
Safety activity costs | 118.6 |
| | 91.7 |
|
DSM programs | 50.1 |
| | 45.5 |
|
Bailly Generating Station | 221.8 |
| | 244.3 |
|
Other | 276.9 |
| | 238.1 |
|
Total Regulatory Assets | $ | 2,239.6 |
| | $ | 2,237.5 |
|
| | | | | | | | | | | |
At December 31, (in millions) | 2022 | | 2021 |
Regulatory Assets | | | |
Unrecognized pension and other postretirement benefit costs (see Note 12) | $ | 607.5 | | | $ | 512.1 | |
Deferred pension and other postretirement benefit costs (see Note 12) | 72.2 | | | 74.8 | |
Environmental costs (see Note 19-E.) | 41.4 | | | 45.8 | |
Regulatory effects of accounting for income taxes (see Note 1-N. and Note 11) | 158.0 | | | 194.8 | |
Under-recovered gas and fuel costs (see Note 1-J.) | 85.5 | | | 73.6 | |
Depreciation | 191.3 | | | 177.5 | |
| | | |
Post-in-service carrying charges | 251.5 | | | 237.9 | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
Safety activity costs | 200.7 | | | 171.9 | |
DSM programs | 37.5 | | | 39.2 | |
Retired coal generating stations | 744.0 | | | 803.9 | |
Losses on commodity price risk programs (See Note 10) | 10.0 | | | 9.6 | |
Deferred property taxes | 68.5 | | | 65.1 | |
Renewable energy investments (See Note 1-S. and Note 4) | 37.7 | | | 18.5 | |
Other | 75.0 | | | 67.5 | |
Total Regulatory Assets | $ | 2,580.8 | | | $ | 2,492.2 | |
Less: Current Portion | 233.2 | | | 206.2 | |
Total Noncurrent Regulatory Assets | $ | 2,347.6 | | | $ | 2,286.0 | |
Regulatory liabilities were comprised of the following items:
|
| | | | | | | |
At December 31, (in millions) | 2019 | | 2018 |
Regulatory Liabilities | | | |
Over-recovered gas and fuel costs (see Note 1-J) | $ | 42.6 |
| | $ | 32.0 |
|
Cost of removal (see Note 7) | 1,047.5 |
| | 1,076.0 |
|
Regulatory effects of accounting for income taxes (see Note 1-N and Note 10) | 1,307.0 |
| | 1,428.3 |
|
Deferred pension and other postretirement benefit costs (see Note 11) | 64.7 |
| | 62.7 |
|
Other | 50.4 |
| | 61.0 |
|
Total Regulatory Liabilities | $ | 2,512.2 |
| | $ | 2,660.0 |
|
| | | | | | | | | | | |
At December 31, (in millions) | 2022 | | 2021 |
Regulatory Liabilities | | | |
Over-recovered gas and fuel costs (see Note 1-J.) | $ | 20.6 | | | $ | 5.4 | |
Cost of removal (see Note 8) | 675.9 | | | 749.5 | |
Regulatory effects of accounting for income taxes (see Note 1-N. and Note 11) | 996.3 | | | 1,040.8 | |
Deferred pension and other postretirement benefit costs (see Note 12) | 66.8 | | | 75.9 | |
Gains on commodity price risk programs (See Note 10) | 90.0 | | | 34.2 | |
Customer Assistance Programs | 32.9 | | | 13.2 | |
Rate Refunds | 51.4 | | | 8.2 | |
Other | 78.7 | | | 52.8 | |
Total Regulatory Liabilities | $ | 2,012.6 | | | $ | 1,980.0 | |
Less: Current Portion | 236.8 | | | 137.4 | |
Total Noncurrent Regulatory Liabilities | $ | 1,775.8 | | | $ | 1,842.6 | |
Regulatory assets, including under-recovered gas and fuel cost,costs and depreciation, of approximately $1,524.3$1,324.7 million and $1,207.0 million as of December 31, 20192022 and 2021, respectively, are not earning a return on investment. These costs are recovered over a remaining life, the longest of up to 41which is 50 years. Regulatory assets of approximately $1,932.4 million include expenses that are recovered as components of the cost of service and are covered by regulatory orders. Regulatory assets of approximately $307.2 million at December 31, 2019, require specific rate action.
Assets:
Unrecognized pension and other postretirement benefit costs. In 2007, we adopted certain updates of ASC 715 which required, among other things,Represents the recognition indeferred other comprehensive income or loss of the actuarial gains or losses and the prior service costs or credits that arise during the period but that are not immediately recognized as components of net periodic benefit costs. Certaincosts by certain subsidiaries defer these gains or losses as a regulatory asset in accordance with regulatory orders or as a result of regulatory precedent, tothat will ultimately be recovered through base rates.
Deferred pension and other postretirement benefit costs. Primarily relates to the difference between postretirement expense recorded by certain subsidiaries due to regulatory orders and the postretirement expense recorded in accordance with GAAP. These costs are expected to be collected through future base rates, revenue riders or tracking mechanisms.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
Deferred pension and other postretirement benefit costs. Primarily relates to the difference between defined benefit plan expense recorded by certain subsidiaries due to regulatory orders and the corresponding expense that would otherwise be recorded in accordance with GAAP. The majority of these amounts are driven by Columbia of Ohio. On January 26, 2023, the PUCO approved the joint stipulation in Columbia of Ohio's rate case. In the stipulation, Columbia agreed to forego the continuation of its pension and OPEB deferral prospectively as of March 31, 2021. Amounts deferred as of March 31, 2021 will be included in base rates.
Environmental costs. Includes certain recoverable costs of investigating, testing, remediating and other costs related to gas plant sites, disposal sites or other sites onto which material may have migrated. Certainmigrated, the recovery of our companies defer the costs as a regulatory asset in accordance with regulatory orders,which is to be recoveredaddressed in future base rates, billing riders or tracking mechanisms.mechanisms of certain of our subsidiaries.
Regulatory effects of accounting for income taxes. Represents the deferral and under collection of deferred taxes in the rate making process. In prior years, we have lowered customer rates in certain jurisdictions for the benefits of accelerated tax deductions. Amounts are expensed for financial reporting purposes as we recover deferred taxes in the rate making process.
Under-recovered gas and fuel costs. Represents the difference between the costs of gas and fuel and the recovery of such costs in revenue and is used to adjust future billings for such deferrals on a basis consistent with applicable state-approved tariff provisions. Recovery of these costs is achieved through tracking mechanisms.
Depreciation. Represents differences between depreciation expense incurred on a GAAP basis and that prescribed through regulatory order. Significant componentsThe majority of this balance include:is driven by Columbia of Ohio's IRP and CEP deferrals, however, starting in March 2023, the majority of these costs will be in base rates.
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• | Columbia of Ohio depreciation rates. Prior to 2005, the PUCO-approved depreciation rates for rate-making had been lower than those which would have been utilized if Columbia of Ohio were not subject to regulation resulting in the creation of a regulatory asset. In 2005, the PUCO authorized Columbia of Ohio to revise its depreciation accrual rates for the period beginning January 1, 2005. The revised depreciation rates are higher than those which would have been utilized if Columbia of Ohio were not subject to regulation allowing for amortization of the previously created regulatory asset. The amount of depreciation that would have been recorded from 2005 through 2019 had Columbia of Ohio not been subject to rate regulation is a cumulative $923.5 million, $103.8 million less than that reflected in rates. The resulting regulatory asset balance was $27.9 million and $39.5 million as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively.
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• | Columbia of Ohio IRP and CEP. Columbia of Ohio also has PUCO approval to defer depreciation and debt-based post-in-service carrying charges (see "Post-in-service carrying charges" below) associated with its IRP and CEP. As of December 31, 2019, depreciation of $31.9 million and $77.2 million was deferred for the respective programs. Depreciation deferral balances for the respective programs as of December 31, 2018 were $29.1 million and $76.0 million. Recovery of the depreciation is approved annually through the IRP and CEP riders. The equivalent of annual depreciation expense, based on the average life of the related assets, is included in the calculation of the IRP and CEP riders approved by the PUCO and billed to customers. Deferred depreciation expense is recognized as the IRP and CEP riders are billed to customers.
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• | NIPSCO ECRM. NIPSCO obtained approval from the IURC to recover certain environmental related costs including operation and maintenance and depreciation expense once the environmental facilities become operational. The ECRM deferred charges represent expenses that will be recovered from customers through an annual ECRM Cost Tracker (ECT) which authorizes the collection of deferred balances over a six month period. Depreciation of $15.2 million and $14.4 million was deferred to a regulatory asset as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively. This regulatory asset was included in electric base rates, which was approved by the IURC on December 4, 2019.
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• | NIPSCO TDSIC. NIPSCO obtained approval from the IURC to recover costs for certain system modernization projects outside of a base rate proceeding. Eighty percent of the related costs, including depreciation, property taxes, and debt and equity based carrying charges (see "Post-in-service carrying charges" below) are recovered through a semi-annual recovery mechanism. Recovery of these costs will continue through the TDSIC tracker until such assets are included in rate base through a gas or electric base rate case, respectively. The remaining twenty percent of the costs are deferred until the next base rate case. As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, depreciation of $22.0 million and $16.5 million, respectively, was deferred as a regulatory asset.
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Post-in-service carrying charges. Represents deferred debt-based carrying charges incurred on certain assets placed into service but not yet included in customer rates. ThisThe majority of this balance includes:
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• | is driven by Columbia of Ohio IRP and CEP. See description of IRP and CEP programs above under the heading "Depreciation." As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, Columbia of Ohio had deferred PISCC of $206.4 million and $197.1 million, respectively. |
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• | NIPSCO TDSIC. See description of TDSIC program above under the heading "Depreciation." Deferral of equity-based carrying charges for the TDSIC program is allowed; however, such amounts are not reflected in regulatory asset balances for financial reporting as equity-based returns do not meet the definition of incurred costs under ASC 980. As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, NIPSCO had deferred PISCC of $13.4 million and $9.5 million, respectively.
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NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
Safety activity costs. Represents the difference between costs incurred by certain of our subsidiaries in eligible safety programs in compliance with PHMSA regulations in excess of those being recovered in rates. The eligible cost deferrals represent necessary business expenses incurredmajority of this balance is driven by Columbia of Ohio, which will begin recovery in compliance with PHMSA regulations and are targeted to enhance the safety of the pipeline systems. Certain subsidiaries defer the excess costs as a regulatory asset in accordance with regulatory orders and recovery of these costs will be addressed in futureMarch 2023 through base rate proceedings.rates.
DSM programs. Represents costs associated with Gas Distribution Operations and Electric Operations segments' energy efficiency and conservation programs. Costs are recovered through tracking mechanisms.
Bailly Generating Station.Retired coal generating stations. Represents the net book value of Units 7 and 8 of Bailly Generating Station that was retired during 2018.2018 and the net book value of Units 14 and 15 of R.M. Schahfer Generating Station retired in 2021. These amounts are currently being amortized at a rate consistent with their inclusion in customer rates. The December 2019 NIPSCO electric rate case order allows for the recovery of, and on, the net book value of the stations by the end of 2032 and implements a revenue credit for the retired units. The credit is based on the difference between the net book value of Units 14 and 15 upon retirement and the last base rate case proceeding. The credit will be reset when new base rates are determined. See Note 6, "Property, Plant and Equipment," for further details.
Losses on commodity price risk programs. Represents the unrealized losses related to certain of our subsidiary's commodity price risk programs. These programs help to protect against the volatility of commodity prices and these amounts are collected from customers through their inclusion in customer rates.
Deferred property taxes. Represents the deferral and under collection of property taxes in the rate making process for Columbia of Ohio and is driven by the IRP and CEP deferrals, however, starting in March 2023, the majority of these costs will be in base rates.
Renewable energy investments. Represents the regulatory deferral of certain amounts representing the timing difference between the profit earned from the JVs and the amount included in regulated rates to recover our approved investments in consolidated JVs. These amounts will be collected through base rates over the life of the renewable generating assets to which they relate. Refer to Note 1, "Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - S. VIEs and Allocation of Earnings," for additional information. Renewable energy formation and developer costs are also included in this regulatory asset.
Liabilities:
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
Over-recovered gas and fuel costs. Represents the difference between the cost of gas and fuel and the recovery of such costs in revenues and is the basis to adjust future billings for such refunds on a basis consistent with applicable state-approved tariff provisions. Refunding of these revenues is achieved through tracking mechanisms.
Cost of removal. Represents anticipated costs of removal for utility assets that have been and continue to be, included incollected through depreciation rates and collected in customer rates of the rate-regulated subsidiaries for future costs to be incurred.
Regulatory effects of accounting for income taxes. Represents amounts owed to customers for deferred taxes collected at a higher rate than the current statutory rates and liabilities associated with accelerated tax deductions owed to customers that are established during the rate making process.customers. Balance includes excess deferred taxes recorded upon implementation of the TCJA in December 2017, net of amounts amortized through 2019.2022.
Deferred pension and other postretirement benefit costs. Primarily represents cash contributions in excess of postretirement benefit expense that is deferred by certain subsidiaries.
Gains on commodity price risk programs. Represents the unrealized gains related to certain of our subsidiary's commodity price risk programs. These programs help to protect against the volatility of commodity prices, and these amounts are passed back to customers through their inclusion in customer rates.
Customer Assistance Programs. Represents the difference between the eligible customer assistance program costs and collections, which will be refunded to customers.
Rate Refunds. Represents supplier refunds received by the company that are owed to customers and will be remitted.
NIPSCO change in accounting estimate
As part of the NIPSCO Gas Settlement and Stipulation Agreement filed on March 2, 2022, NIPSCO Gas agreed to change the depreciation methodology for its calculation of depreciation rates, which reduces depreciation expense and subsequent revenues and cash flows. An order was received on July 27, 2022 approving the rate case and rates were effective as of September 1, 2022. NIPSCO has proposed a similar change in depreciation methodology in its pending electric base rate case.
Columbia of Ohio regulatory filing update
On Wednesday, April 6, 2022, the PUCO Staff issued its Staff Report in Columbia of Ohio's base rate case, filed on June 21, 2021, which was filed in conjunction with applications for an alternative rate plan, approval of certain deferral authority, and updates to certain riders. Columbia of Ohio's application requested a net rate increase approximating a 21.3% or $221.4 million increase in revenue per year. On October 31, 2022, Columbia of Ohio filed a joint stipulation and recommendation with certain parties to settle the base rate case. The joint stipulation and recommendation includes a rate increase of 7.97%, or $68.2 million and includes adjustments to plant assets, pension expenses, environmental remediation costs and other operations and maintenance expenses. The joint stipulation and recommendation also proposes to extend both of Columbia of Ohio's capital investment riders, the IRP and CEP, for capital invested through the 2026 calendar year. Columbia of Ohio recorded the material effects of the joint stipulation in the fourth quarter. On January 26, 2023, the PUCO approved the joint stipulation and recommendation.
Regulatory deferral related to renewable energy investments
The offset to the regulatory liability or asset associated with our renewable investments included in regulated rates is recorded in "Depreciation expense" on the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income (Loss). Refer to Note 4, "Variable Interest Entities," and Note 6, "Property, Plant and Equipment," for additional information.
FAC Adjustment
As ordered by the IURC on June 15, 2022, NIPSCO is required to refund to customers $8.0 million of over-collected fuel costs. The remaining refund is recorded as a regulatory liability by certain subsidiarieson the Consolidated Balance Sheets and is expected to be refunded in accordance with regulatory orders.
Cost Recovery and Trackers
Comparability of our line item operating results is impacted by regulatory trackers that allow for the recovery in rates of certain costs such as those described below. Increases in the expenses that are the subject of trackers generally result in a corresponding increase in operating revenues and, therefore, have essentially no impact on total operating income results.
Certain costs of our operating companies are significant, recurring in nature and generally outside the control of the operating companies. Some states allow the recovery of such costs through cost tracking mechanisms. Such tracking mechanisms allow for abbreviated regulatory proceedings in order for the operating companies to implement charges and recover appropriate costs. Tracking mechanisms allow for more timely recovery of such costs as compared with more traditional cost recovery mechanisms. Examples of such mechanisms include GCR adjustment mechanisms, tax riders, bad debt recovery mechanisms, electric energy efficiency programs, MISO non-fuel costs and revenues, resource capacity charges, federally mandated costs and environmental-related costs.
A portion of the Gas Distribution revenue is related to the recovery of gas costs, the review and recovery of which occurs through standard regulatory proceedings. All states in our operating area require periodic review of actual gas procurement activity to determine prudence and to permit the recovery of prudently incurred costs related to the supply of gas for customers. Our distribution companies have historically been found prudent in the procurement of gas supplies to serve customers.
A portion of the Electric Operations revenue is related to the recovery of fuel costs to generate power and the fuel costs related to purchased power. These costs are recovered through a FAC, a quarterly regulatory proceeding in Indiana.
Infrastructure Replacement and Federally-Mandated Compliance Programs
All of our operating utility companies have completed rate proceedings involving infrastructure replacement or enhancement, and have embarked upon initiatives to replace significant portions of their operating systems that are nearing the end of their useful lives. Each company's approach to cost recovery is unique, given the different laws, regulations and precedent that exist in each jurisdiction.
Columbia of Ohio, IRP - On December 3, 2008, the PUCO issued an order which established Columbia of Ohio’s IRP. Pursuant to that order, the IRP provides for recovery of costs resulting from: (1) the maintenance, repair and replacement of customer-owned service lines that have been determined by Columbia of Ohio to present an existing or probable hazard to persons and property;
2023.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
COVID-19 Regulatory Filings
(2) ColumbiaIn response to COVID-19, we received approvals or directives from the regulatory commissions in the states in which we operate. The ongoing impacts of Ohio’s replacement of cast iron, wrought iron, unprotected coated steel and bare steel pipe and associated company and customer-owned metallic service lines; (3)these approvals or directives are described in the replacement of customer-owned natural gas risers identified bytable below:
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Jurisdiction | Regulatory Asset balance as of December 31, 2022 (in millions) | Regulatory Asset balance as of December 31, 2021 (in millions) | Deferred COVID-19 Costs |
Columbia of Ohio | $ | — | | $ | 2.1 | | Incremental operation and maintenance expenses |
NIPSCO | $ | 2.1 | | $ | 2.2 | | Incremental bad debt expense and the costs to implement the requirements of the COVID-19 related order |
Columbia of Pennsylvania | $ | 2.8 | | $ | 5.2 | | Incremental bad debt expense incurred from March 13, 2020 through December 29, 2021, above levels currently in rates |
Columbia of Virginia | $ | 1.9 | | $ | 1.5 | | Incremental incurred costs, including incremental bad debt expense |
Columbia of Maryland | $ | 1.3 | | $ | 0.9 | | Incremental costs (including incremental bad debt expense) incurred to ensure that customers have essential utility service during the state of emergency in Maryland. Such incremental costs must be offset by any benefit received in connection with the pandemic |
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On January 26, 2023, the PUCO as prone to failure; and (4)approved the installation of AMR devices on all residential and commercial meters served by Columbia of Ohio. Recoverable costs include a return on investment, depreciation and property taxes, offset by specified cost savings. Columbia of Ohio’s five-year IRP plan renewal was last approved on January 31, 2018 for the years 2018-2022.
Columbia of Ohio, CEP - On October 3, 2011, Columbia of Ohio filed an application for approval to establish the CEP that would provide for the deferral of PISCC on those assets placed into service, but not reflectedjoint stipulation in rates as plant in service, and the deferral of depreciation expense and property taxes directly attributable to the CEP assets for the period October 1, 2011 through December 31, 2012. Capital expenditures covered under this program included those placed into service that were not part of Columbia of Ohio's IRP. CEP was approvedrate case. As part of this stipulation, Columbia agreed to forego recovery of its deferred COVID-19 costs.
The Pennsylvania PUC lifted its prior pandemic-related moratorium on service terminations for non-payments of utility bills beginning April 1, 2021. In CPA's recent rate case order, total COVID-19 deferrals were updated with the remaining balance being amortized over a four-year period.
For Columbia of Virginia, the moratorium on non-residential disconnections ended on October 6, 2020, and the moratorium on residential disconnections and late payment fees ended on August 30, 2021.
In connection with the Maryland Relief Act and the order issued by the PUCOPSC of Maryland on August 29, 2012. Under this program, the PUCO’s approval provided for the deferral of related PISCC, depreciation and property taxes up to the point where the deferred amount, if included in rates, would exceed $1.50 per month impact on the Small General Service class of customers, subject to the PUCO’s determination of the prudence and reasonableness of investments covered under this program in a future regulatory proceeding. Subsequently, on October 3, 2013, the PUCO modified and approvedJune 15, 2021, Columbia of Ohio’s applicationMaryland received approximately $0.8 million of assistance that was applied to continue its CEP deferralscustomer accounts in 2013 and succeeding years, subject to the determination of the prudence, reasonableness and magnitude of the deferrals and capital expenditures in a future cost recovery proceeding. On December 1, 2017,August 2021. Columbia of Ohio filed an application in which it requested authority to implement a rider to begin recovering plant and associated deferrals related to its CEP. On October 25, 2018, a joint stipulation and recommendation was filed to recover CEP investments and deferrals through December 31, 2017, with annual adjustments for capital investments made in subsequent years. Additionally, the signatory parties to the stipulation agreed to a reduction in rates to adjust for the impacts of the Tax Cut Jobs Act and for a baseMaryland's recent rate case filing to be made by Columbiaorder includes continued amortization of Ohio no later than June 30, 2021. On November 28, 2018 the PUCO issued an order unanimously approving the settlement, without modification.
NIPSCO Gas and Electric, TDSIC - On April 30, 2013, the Indiana Governor signed Senate Enrolled Act 560, known as the TDSIC statute, into law. Among other provisions, the TDSIC statute provides for cost recovery outside of a base rate proceeding for new or replacement electric and gas transmission, distribution, and storage projects that a public utility undertakes for the purposes of safety, reliability, system modernization or economic development. Provisions of the TDSIC statute require that, among other things, requests for recovery include a seven-year plan of eligible investments. Once the plan is approved by the IURC, eighty percent of eligible costs can be recovered using a periodic rate adjustment mechanism, known as the TDSIC mechanism. Recoverable costs include a return on the investment, including AFUDC, PISCC, depreciation and property taxes. The remaining twenty percent of recoverable costs are deferred for future recovery in NIPSCO's next general rate case. This rate adjustment mechanism is typically filed semi-annually and has a cap at an annual increase of two percent of total retail revenues. During the 2019 Legislative session, the Indiana General Assembly amended the TDSIC statute in House Enrolled Act 1470 that was signed into law by the Governor on April 24, 2019. The revisions that became effective on July 1, 2019 permit flexibility in TDSIC Plans between five and seven years in length, permits the IURC to authorize multi-unit projects that do not include specific locations or an exact number of inspections, repairs, or replacements and projects involving advanced technology investments to support the modernization of transmission, distribution, or storage systems. The amendments also authorize termination of TDSIC Plans prior to their expiration and provide that the projects associated with the terminated plan will continue to receive TDSIC treatment until an Order is issued in the utility’s next general rate case, and provide for the ability to seek approval of a new TDSIC Plan. The amended statute also provides that the two percent revenue cap applies to the aggregate of approved TDSIC Plans and requires that the utility file a base rate case at some point during the term of each TDSIC plan. On December 31, 2019, NIPSCO Gas filed a new 6-year TDSIC for the periods 2020 through 2025.
NIPSCO Electric, ECRM - NIPSCO has approval from the IURC to recover certain environmental related costs through an ECT (environmental cost tracker). Under the ECT, NIPSCO is permitted to recover (1) AFUDC and a return on the capital investment expended by NIPSCO to implement environmental compliance plan projects and (2) related operation and maintenance expenses. All termination moratoriums will be lifted after April 1, 2023 and depreciation expenses once the environmental facilities become operational. All deferred costs associated with ECRM were included in electric rate base and approved by the IURC on December 4, 2019.normal collections procedures will be resumed.
NIPSCO Gas and Electric, FMCA - The FMCA statute provides for cost recovery outside of a base rate proceeding for projected federally mandated costs. Once the plan is approved by the IURC, eighty percent of eligible costs can be recovered using a periodic rate adjustment mechanism, known as the FMCA mechanism. Recoverable costs include a return on the investment, including AFUDC, PISCC, mandated operation and maintenance expenses, depreciation and property taxes. The remaining twenty percent of recoverable costs are deferred for future recovery in NIPSCO's next general rate case. Actual costs that exceed the projected
Unless otherwise noted above, all other pandemic-related regulatory actions have expired or been lifted.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
federally mandated costs of the approved compliance project by more than twenty-five percent shall require specific justification by NIPSCO and specific approval by the IURC before being authorized in the next general rate case.
Columbia of Massachusetts, GSEP - On July 7, 2014, the Governor of Massachusetts signed into law Chapter 149 of the Acts of 2014, an Act Relative to Natural Gas Leaks (“the Act”). Adopted into the Massachusetts Utility Provisions, G.L. c. 164, § 145, the Act authorizes natural gas distribution companies to file a GSEP for capital investments made on or after January 1, 2015, that are not included in the company’s current rate base as determined in the most recent base rate case, with the Massachusetts DPU to (1) address the replacement or improvement of existing aging natural gas pipeline infrastructure to improve public safety or infrastructure reliability, and (2) reduce the lost and unaccounted for natural gas through a reduction in natural gas system leaks. In addition, the Act provides that the Massachusetts DPU may, after review of the plan, allow the proposed estimated costs of the plan into rates as of May 1 of the subsequent year. Recoverable costs include a return on investment, depreciation and property taxes, offset by identified operations and maintenance cost savings. Beginning with the 2019 GSEP, rates are subject to a capped annual revenue increase of three percent of total annual firm delivery revenues, plus imputed gas revenues for sales and transportation customers, calculated as the product of (1) the historical average cost of gas per therm, and (2) the average weather normalized sales, for the period beginning with 2013 and ending with the most recent year that actual data is available at the time of the October GSEP Plan filing, per the Massachusetts DPU order in Columbia of Massachusetts' 2019 GSEP. Prior to the 2019 GSEP, the annual revenue increase was capped at one and a half percent. At the end of each 12-month period, in May of the subsequent year, Columbia of Massachusetts must file a reconciliation of the amount collected and actual costs. Any over-collection or under-collection balance is passed back to, or recovered from, customers through the surcharge over a 12-month period beginning in November. On October 31, 2019, the Massachusetts DPU issued an order on Columbia of Massachusetts' GSEP reconciliation proceeding finding that, due to pending investigations of the Greater Lawrence Incident and other operational matters, the Massachusetts DPU could not, at this time, make a finding of prudence with respect to the Columbia of Massachusetts' 2018 GSEP investments and deferred the decision on the prudency of the 2018 GSEP investments in the annual GSEP and GSEP reconciliation filings until the investigations by the DPU are complete. The DPU added that its inability to make a finding of prudence did not constitute a finding of imprudence. Once new base rates are established under a base rate proceeding, the GSEP factor is re-set to remove the capital investment and associated revenue reflected in the base rates. Columbia of Massachusetts' current five year GSEP plan for the periods 2019-2023 was approved April 30, 2019.
Columbia of Pennsylvania, DSIC - On February 14, 2012, the Governor of Pennsylvania signed into law Act 11 of 2012, which provided a DSIC mechanism for certain utilities to recover costs related to repair, replacement or improvement of eligible distribution property that has not previously been reflected in rates or rate base. Through a DSIC, a utility may recover the fixed costs of eligible infrastructure incurred during the three months ended one month prior to the effective date of the charge, thereby reducing the historical regulatory lag associated with cost recovery through the traditional rate-making process. On March 14, 2013, the Pennsylvania PUC approved Columbia of Pennsylvania’s petition to implement a DSIC as of April 1, 2013. Accordingly, Columbia of Pennsylvania is authorized to recover the cost of eligible plant associated with repair, replacement or improvement that was not previously reflected in rate base and has been placed in service during the applicable three-month period. After the initial charge is established, the DSIC is updated quarterly to recover the cost of further plant additions and cannot exceed five percent of distribution revenues. Recoverable costs include a return on investment, exclusive of accumulated deferred income taxes from the calculation of rate base, and depreciation. Once new base rates are established under a base rate proceeding, the DSIC is set to zero. Additionally, the DSIC rate is also reset to zero if, in any quarter, the data reflected in the Columbia of Pennsylvania's most recent quarterly financial earnings report show that the utility will earn an overall rate of return that would exceed the allowable rate of return used to calculate its fixed costs under the DSIC mechanism. A utility is exempt from filing a quarterly financial earnings report when a base rate proceeding is pending before the Pennsylvania PUC.
Columbia of Virginia, SAVE - On March 11, 2010, the Virginia Governor signed legislation into law that allows natural gas utilities to implement programs to replace qualifying infrastructure on an expedited basis and provides for timely cost recovery. Known as the SAVE Act, the law allows natural gas utilities to file programs with the VSCC providing a timeline and estimated costs for replacing eligible infrastructure. Eligible infrastructure replacement projects are those that (1) enhance safety or reliability by reducing system integrity risks associated with customer outages, corrosion, equipment failures, material failures, or natural forces; (2) do not increase revenues by directly connecting the infrastructure replacement to new customers; (3) reduce or have the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions; (4) are not included in the natural gas utility’s rate base in its most recent rate case; and (5) are commenced on or after January 1, 2010. The SAVE Act provides for recovery of costs associated with the eligible infrastructure through a rate rider. Recoverable costs include a return on investment, depreciation and property taxes. Columbia of Virginia’s current five year SAVE plan was approved by the VSCC in 2016 and amended in 2017 for the years 2016 through 2020 and amended in 2019 for calendar year 2020.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
Columbia of Kentucky, SMRP (formerly AMRP) - On October 26, 2009, the Kentucky PSC approved a mechanism for recovering the costs of Columbia of Kentucky’s AMRP not previously reflected in rate base through an annual fixed monthly rate rider filed in October. In its 2013 rate case, Columbia of Kentucky was allowed to base the AMRP rider on the expected annual cost of service. Recoverable costs include a return on investment, depreciation and property taxes, offset by specific cost savings. At the end of each 12-month period, Columbia of Kentucky must file a reconciliation of the amount collected and actual costs. Any over-collection or under-collection balance is passed back to, or recovered from, customers through the surcharge over a 12-month period beginning in June of the subsequent year. Once new base rates are established under a base rate proceeding, the AMRP rider is set to zero. On July 29, 2019, CKY filed its SMRP to clarify approval of low pressure project spend and expand its AMRP to include for recovery of system safety investments, including low pressure project spend. On November 7, 2019, the Commission approved Columbia of Kentucky's request to amend and expand its annual AMRP to become the SMRP.
Columbia of Maryland, STRIDE - On May 2, 2013, the Governor of Maryland signed Senate Bill 8 into law, authorizing gas companies to accelerate recovery of eligible infrastructure replacement, effective June 1, 2013. The STRIDE statute provides recovery for gas pipeline upgrades outside of the context of a base rate proceeding through an annual surcharge, IRIS, as approved by the Maryland PSC. The STRIDE statute directs gas utilities to file a plan to invest in eligible infrastructure replacement projects and to list the specific projects and elements in any such STRIDE plan with the Maryland PSC. The calendar year projected capital projects to be placed into plant in service and included in Columbia of Maryland's surcharge recovery request must satisfy a number of criteria per the statute, including a requirement that they be designed to improve public safety or infrastructure reliability. Columbia of Maryland’s five-year STRIDE Plan renewal for years 2019 through 2023, as with the preceding five years, is focused on replacing (1) existing cast iron and bare steel mains, (2) associated services and meters, and (3) identified prone-to-failure vintage plastic piping. Columbia of Maryland’s IRIS mechanism recovers a return on investment, depreciation and property taxes of the STRIDE-eligible capital infrastructure statutorily capped at $2 per month for residential customers, and proportionally capped for commercial and industrial customer classes, and is reconciled to actual costs on an annual basis. Any over-collection or under-collection balance is passed back to, or recovered from, customers through the surcharge effective in May of the subsequent year, subject to the cap. STRIDE investments, and recovery thereof, are subject to prudency review by the Maryland PSC in the context of quarterly STRIDE update filings and in subsequent rate proceedings where STRIDE assets are rolled into rate base for recovery in base rates.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
The following table describes the most recent vintage of our regulatory programs to recover infrastructure replacement and other federally-mandated compliance investments currently in rates and those pending commission approval:
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(in millions) | | | | | |
Company | Program | Incremental Revenue | Incremental Capital Investment | Investment Period | Filed | Status | Rates Effective |
Columbia of Ohio | IRP - 2019(1) | $ | 18.2 |
| $ | 199.6 |
| 1/18-12/18 | February 28, 2019 | Approved April 24, 2019 | May 2019 |
Columbia of Ohio | CEP - 2018 | $ | 74.5 |
| $ | 659.9 |
| 1/11-12/17 | December 1, 2017 | Approved November 28, 2018 | December 2018 |
Columbia of Ohio | CEP - 2019 | $ | 15.0 |
| $ | 121.7 |
| 1/18-12/18 | February 28, 2019 | Approved August 28, 2019 | September 2019 |
NIPSCO - Gas | TDSIC 9(1)(2) | $ | (10.6 | ) | $ | 54.4 |
| 1/18-6/18 | August 28, 2018 | Approved December 27, 2018 | January 2019 |
NIPSCO - Gas | TDSIC 10(3) | $ | 1.6 |
| $ | 12.4 |
| 7/18-4/19 | June 25, 2019 | Approved October 16, 2019 | November 2019 |
NIPSCO - Gas | TDSIC 11(4) | $ | (1.7 | ) | $ | 38.7 |
| 5/19-12/19 | February 25, 2020 | Order Expected June 2020 | July 2020 |
NIPSCO - Gas | FMCA 1(5) | $ | 9.9 |
| $ | 1.5 |
| 11/17-9/18 | November 30, 2018 | Approved March 27, 2019 | April 2019 |
NIPSCO - Gas | FMCA 2(5) | $ | (3.5 | ) | $ | 1.8 |
| 10/18-3/19 | May 29, 2019 | Approved September 25, 2019 | October 2019 |
NIPSCO - Gas | FMCA 3(5) | $ | 0.3 |
| $ | 43.0 |
| 4/19-9/19 | November 26, 2019 | Order Expected March 2020 | April 2020 |
Columbia of Massachusetts | GSEP - 2019(6) | $ | 9.6 |
| $ | 36.0 |
| 1/19-12/19 | October 31, 2018 | Approved April 30, 2019 | May 2019 |
Columbia of Massachusetts | GSEP - 2020(6)(7) | $ | 2.4 |
| $ | 75.0 |
| 1/20-12/20 | October 31, 2019 | Order Expected April 2020 | May 2020 |
Columbia of Virginia | SAVE - 2019 | $ | 2.4 |
| $ | 36.0 |
| 1/19-12/19 | August 17, 2018 | Approved October 26, 2018 | January 2019 |
Columbia of Virginia | SAVE - 2020 | $ | 3.8 |
| $ | 50.0 |
| 1/20-12/20 | August 15, 2019 | Approved December 6, 2019 | January 2020 |
Columbia of Kentucky | AMRP - 2019 | $ | 3.6 |
| $ | 30.1 |
| 1/19-12/19 | October 15, 2018 | Approved December 5, 2018 | January 2019 |
Columbia of Kentucky | SMRP - 2020 | $ | 4.2 |
| $ | 40.4 |
| 1/20-12/20 | October 15, 2019 | Approved December 20, 2019 | January 2020 |
Columbia of Maryland | STRIDE - 2019 | $ | 1.2 |
| $ | 19.7 |
| 1/19-12/19 | November 1, 2018 | Approved December 12, 2018 | January 2019 |
Columbia of Maryland | STRIDE - 2020 | $ | 1.3 |
| $ | 15.0 |
| 1/20-12/20 | January 29, 2020 | Approved February 19, 2020 | February 2020 |
NIPSCO - Electric | TDSIC - 5(1) | $ | 15.9 |
| $ | 58.8 |
| 6/18-11/18 | January 29, 2019 | Approved June 12, 2019 | June 2019 |
NIPSCO - Electric | TDSIC - 6 | $ | 28.1 |
| $ | 131.1 |
| 12/18-6/19 | August 21, 2019 | Approved December 18, 2019 | January 2020 |
NIPSCO - Electric | FMCA - 11(5) | $ | 0.9 |
| $ | 22.4 |
| 9/18-2/19 | April 17, 2019 | Approved July 29, 2019 | August 2019 |
NIPSCO - Electric | FMCA - 12(5) | $ | 1.6 |
| $ | 4.7 |
| 3/19-8/19 | October 18, 2019 | Approved January 29, 2020 | February 2020 |
(1)Incremental revenue is net of amounts due back to customers as a result of the TCJA.
(2)Incremental revenue is net of $5.2 million of adjustments in the TDSIC-9 settlement.
(3)Incremental capital and revenue are net of amounts included in the step 2 rates.
(4)Incremental revenue is net of amounts included in the step 2 rates and reflects a more typical filing period.
(5)Incremental revenue is inclusive of tracker eligible operations and maintenance expense.
(6)Due to an order from the Massachusetts DPU on October 3, 2019 imposing work restrictions on Columbia of Massachusetts, Columbia of Massachusetts did not meet the approved projected 2019 GSEP spend of $64 million and associated incremental revenue of $10.7 million. In the 2020 GSEP, Columbia of Massachusetts reduced the projected capital spend for calendar year 2019 to $36 million and the associated incremental revenue in 2019 GSEP to $9.6 million.
(7)Incremental capital investment is anticipated to be lower than $75 million in 2020 due to the Massachusetts DPU imposed work restrictions.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
Rate Case Actions
The following table describes current rate case actions as applicable in each of our jurisdictions net of tracker impacts:
|
| | | | | | | | | |
(in millions) | | | | |
Company | Requested Incremental Revenue | Approved Incremental Revenue | Filed | Status | Rates Effective |
NIPSCO - Gas(1) | $ | 138.1 |
| $ | 105.6 |
| September 27, 2017 | Approved September 19, 2018 | October 2018 |
Columbia of Virginia(2) | $ | 14.2 |
| $ | 1.3 |
| August 28, 2018 | Approved June 12, 2019 | February 2019 |
NIPSCO - Electric(3) | $ | 21.4 |
| $ | (53.5 | ) | October 31, 2018 | Approved December 4, 2019 | January 2020 |
Columbia of Maryland | $ | 2.5 |
| $ | (0.1 | ) | May 22, 2019 | Approved December 18, 2019 | December 2019 |
(1)Rates were implemented in three steps, with implementation of step 1 rates effective October 1, 2018. Step 2 rates were effective on March 1, 2019, and step 3 rates were effective on January 1, 2020. The step 3 increase was approved based on actual information and revised from $107.3 million to $105.6 million. The IURC’s order also dismissed NIPSCO from phase 2 of the IURC’s TCJA investigation.
(2)Rates, as originally filed, were implemented in February 2019 on an interim basis, subject to refund. The final approved rates, which replaced interim rates, were implemented in July 2019.
(3)An order was received on December 4, 2019, which included the resolution of outstanding TCJA impacts to rates. Incremental revenues decreased due to a reduction in fuel costs associated with the new industrial service structure. Rates will be implemented in two steps, with implementation of step 1 rates effective January 2, 2020 and step 2 rates effective March 2, 2020.
Additional Regulatory Matters
NIPSCO Electric. On March 29, 2018, WCE, which is currently owned by BP p.l.c ("BP") and BP Products North America, which operates the BP Refinery, filed a petition at the IURC asking that the combined operations of WCE and BP be treated as a single premise, and the WCE generation be dedicated primarily to BP Refinery operations beginning in May 2019 as WCE has self-certified as a qualifying facility at FERC. BP Refinery planned to continue to purchase electric service from NIPSCO at a reduced demand level beginning in May 2019; however, a settlement agreement was filed on November 2, 2018 agreeing that BP and WCE would not move forward with construction of a private transmission line to serve BP until conclusion of NIPSCO’s pending electric rate case. The IURC approved the settlement agreement as filed on February 20, 2019. On December 4, 2019, the IURC issued an order in the electric rate case approving the implementation of a new industrial service structure. This resolved the issues included in BP’s original petition.
The December 4, 2019 electric rate case order approved the revenue requirement settlement filed in the case, with the exception of a change in the agreed to return on equity; the approved return on equity is 9.75%. The order included approval of the depreciation rates as requested, as well as authorization to create a regulatory asset upon the retirement of R.M. Schahfer Generating Units 14, 15, 17 and 18 and Michigan City Generating Station Unit 12. The order allows for the recovery of and on the net book value of the units by the end of 2032.
9.10. Risk Management Activities
We are exposed to certain risks relatingrelated to our ongoing business operations; namely commodity price risk and interest rate risk. We recognize that the prudent and selective use of derivatives may help to lower our cost of debt capital, manage interest rate exposure and limit volatility in the price of natural gas.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
Risk management assets and liabilities on our derivatives are presented on the Consolidated Balance Sheets as shown below:
|
| | | | | | | |
December 31, (in millions) | 2019 | | 2018 |
Risk Management Assets - Current(1) | | | |
Interest rate risk programs | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
|
Commodity price risk programs | 0.6 |
| | 1.1 |
|
Total | $ | 0.6 |
| | $ | 1.1 |
|
Risk Management Assets - Noncurrent(2) | | | |
Interest rate risk programs | $ | — |
| | $ | 18.5 |
|
Commodity price risk programs | 3.8 |
| | 4.4 |
|
Total | $ | 3.8 |
| | $ | 22.9 |
|
Risk Management Liabilities - Current(3) | | | |
Interest rate risk programs | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
|
Commodity price risk programs | 12.6 |
| | 5.0 |
|
Total | $ | 12.6 |
| | $ | 5.0 |
|
Risk Management Liabilities - Noncurrent | | | |
Interest rate risk programs | $ | 76.2 |
| | $ | 9.5 |
|
Commodity price risk programs | 57.8 |
| | 37.2 |
|
Total | $ | 134.0 |
| | $ | 46.7 |
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| December 31, 2022 | | December 31, 2021 |
(in millions) | Assets | | Liabilities | | Assets | | Liabilities |
Current(1) | | | | | | | |
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments | $ | — | | | $ | — | | | $ | — | | | $ | 136.4 | |
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments | 18.8 | | 1.1 | | 10.6 | | 0.4 |
Total | $ | 18.8 | | | $ | 1.1 | | | $ | 10.6 | | | $ | 136.8 | |
Noncurrent(2) | | | | | | | |
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments | $ | — | | | $ | — | | | $ | — | | | $ | — | |
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments | 66.0 | | 1.9 | | 13.8 | | 7.4 |
Total | $ | 66.0 | | | $ | 1.9 | | | $ | 13.8 | | | $ | 7.4 | |
(1)Presented in "Prepayments and other" and "Other accruals", respectively, on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
(2)Presented in "Deferred charges and other" and "Other noncurrent liabilities", respectively, on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
(3)Presented in "Other accruals" on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Commodity Price Risk ManagementOur derivative instruments aresubject to enforceable master netting arrangements or similar agreements. No collateral was either received or posted related to our outstanding derivative positions at December 31, 2022. If the above gross asset and liability positions were presented net of amounts owed or receivable from counterparties, we would report a net asset position of $81.8 million and $16.6 million at December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments
Commodity price risk management. We, along with our utility customers, are exposed to variability in cash flows associated with natural gas purchases and volatility in natural gas prices. We purchase natural gas for sale and delivery to our retail, commercial and industrial customers, and for most customers the variability in the market price of gas is passed through in their rates. Some of our utility subsidiaries offer programs whereby variability in the market price of gas is assumed by the respective utility. The objective of our commodity price risk programs is to mitigate the gas cost variability, for us or on behalf of our customers, associated with natural gas purchases or sales by economically hedging the various gas cost components using a combination of futures, options, forwards or other derivative contracts. As of December 31, 2022 and 2021, we had 99.0 MMDth and 124.5 MMDth, respectively, of net energy derivative volumes outstanding related to our natural gas hedges.
NIPSCO has received IURC approval to lock in a fixed price for its natural gas customers using long-term forward purchase instruments. The term of these instruments range from five to ten years and is limited to 20 percent20% of NIPSCO’s average annual GCA purchase volume. GainsAs of December 31, 2022, the remaining terms of these instruments range from one to five years.
All gains and losses on these derivative contracts are deferred as regulatory liabilities or assets and are remitted to or collected from customers through NIPSCO’s quarterly GCA mechanism. These instruments are not designated as accounting hedges.hedging instruments. Refer to Note 9, "Regulatory Matters," for additional information.
Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments
Interest Rate Risk Management
rate risk management. As of December 31, 2019,2022, we have no forward-starting interest rate swaps with an aggregate notional value totaling $500.0 million to hedge the variability in cash flows attributable to changes in the benchmark interest rate during the periods from the effective dates of the swaps to the anticipated dates of forecasted debt issuances, which are expected to take place by the end of 2024. These interest rate swaps are designated as cash flow hedges. The effective portions of the gains and losses related to these swaps are recorded to AOCI and are recognized in "Interest expense, net" concurrently with the recognition of interest expense on the associated debt, once issued. If it becomes probable that a hedged forecasted transaction will no longer occur, the accumulated gains or losses on the derivative will be recognized currently in "Other, net" in the Statements of Consolidated Income (Loss).outstanding.
The passage of the TCJA and Greater Lawrence Incident led to significant changes to our long-term financing plan. As a result, during 2018,On June 7, 2022, we settled a $250.0 million forward-starting interest rate swapsswap agreement contemporaneously with a notional valuethe issuance of $750.0 million. These$350.0 million of 5.00% senior unsecured notes maturing in 2052. The derivative contracts werecontract was accounted for as a cash flow hedges.hedge. As part of the transactions,transaction, the associated net unrealized gain position of $46.2$10.2 million is being amortized from AOCI into interest expense over the life of the associated debt. Refer to Note 15, "Long-Term Debt," for additional information.
On December 21, 2022, we settled a $250.0 million forward-starting interest rate swap agreement that was designated as a cash flow hedge. As part of the transaction, the associated net unrealized gain position of $10.0 million was recognized immediately in "Other, net" on the Statements of Consolidated Income (Loss) due to the probability associated with the forecasted borrowing transactions no longer occurring.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
in "Other, net" on the Statements of Consolidated Income (Loss) due to the probability that the forecasted borrowing transaction would no longer occur.
Cash flow hedges included in "Accumulated other comprehensive loss" on the Consolidated Balance Sheets were:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(in millions) | AOCI(1) | | Gain Expected to be Reclassified to Earnings During the Next 12 Months(1) | | Maximum Term |
Interest Rate | $ | (12.6) | | | (0.3) | | | 353 months |
(1) All amounts are net of tax.
The net gain related to these swaps are recorded to AOCI. We amortize the net gain over the life of the debt associated with these swaps as we recognize interest expense. These amounts are immaterial in 2022, 2021 and 2020 and are recorded in "Interest expense, net" on the Statements of Consolidated Income (Loss).
There were 0no amounts excluded from effectiveness testing for derivatives in cash flow hedging relationships at December 31, 2019, 20182021 and 2017.2020.
Our derivative instruments measured at fair value as of December 31, 20192022 and 2018 do2021 did not contain any credit-risk-related contingent features. Cash flows for derivative financial instruments are generally classified as operating activities.
10.11. Income Taxes
Income Tax Expense
Expense. The components of income tax expense (benefit) were as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Year Ended December 31, (in millions) | 2022 | | 2021 | | 2020 |
Income Taxes | | | | | |
Current | | | | | |
Federal | $ | 0.4 | | | $ | (0.1) | | | $ | 0.2 | |
State | 7.3 | | | 6.0 | | | 11.7 | |
Total Current | 7.7 | | | 5.9 | | | 11.9 | |
Deferred | | | | | |
Federal | 181.0 | | | 99.2 | | | (0.4) | |
State | (23.0) | | | 13.8 | | | (27.4) | |
Total Deferred | 158.0 | | | 113.0 | | | (27.8) | |
Deferred Investment Credits | (1.1) | | | (1.1) | | | (1.2) | |
Income Taxes | $ | 164.6 | | | $ | 117.8 | | | $ | (17.1) | |
|
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Year Ended December 31, (in millions) | 2019 | | 2018 | | 2017 |
Income Taxes | | | | | |
Current | | | | | |
Federal | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
|
State | 5.2 |
| | 8.2 |
| | 7.8 |
|
Total Current | 5.2 |
| | 8.2 |
| | 7.8 |
|
Deferred | | | | | |
Federal | 110.7 |
| | (209.4 | ) | | 302.7 |
|
State | 9.0 |
| | 22.2 |
| | 5.0 |
|
Total Deferred | 119.7 |
| | (187.2 | ) | | 307.7 |
|
Deferred Investment Credits | (1.4 | ) | | (1.0 | ) | | (1.0 | ) |
Income Taxes | $ | 123.5 |
| | $ | (180.0 | ) | | $ | 314.5 |
|
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
Statutory Rate Reconciliation
Reconciliation.The following table represents a reconciliation of income tax expense at the statutory federal income tax rate to the actual income tax expense from continuing operations:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Year Ended December 31, (in millions) | 2019 | | 2018 | | 2017 |
Book income (loss) before income taxes | $ | 506.6 |
| | | | $ | (230.6 | ) | | | | $ | 443.0 |
| | |
Tax expense (benefit) at statutory federal income tax rate | 106.5 |
| | 21.0 | % | | (48.4 | ) | | 21.0 | % | | 155.0 |
| | 35.0 | % |
Increases (reductions) in taxes resulting from: | | | | | | | | | | | |
State income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit | 10.1 |
| | 2.0 |
| | 24.7 |
| | (10.7 | ) | | 6.9 |
| | 1.5 |
|
Amortization of regulatory liabilities | (29.4 | ) | | (5.8 | ) | | (29.3 | ) | | 12.7 |
| | (2.4 | ) | | (0.5 | ) |
Goodwill impairment | 43.0 |
| | 8.5 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Fines and penalties | 11.5 |
| | 2.3 |
| | 0.2 |
| | (0.1 | ) | | 2.8 |
| | 0.6 |
|
Charitable contribution carryover | (2.5 | ) | | (0.5 | ) | | — |
| | — |
| | (1.2 | ) | | (0.3 | ) |
State regulatory proceedings | (9.5 | ) | | (1.9 | ) | | (127.8 | ) | | 55.4 |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Remeasurement due to TCJA | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 161.1 |
| | 36.4 |
|
Employee stock ownership plan dividends and other compensation | (2.0 | ) | | (0.4 | ) | | (2.2 | ) | | 1.0 |
| | (6.5 | ) | | (1.5 | ) |
Other adjustments | (4.2 | ) | | (0.8 | ) | | 2.8 |
| | (1.2 | ) | | (1.2 | ) | | (0.2 | ) |
Income Taxes | $ | 123.5 |
| | 24.4 | % | | $ | (180.0 | ) | | 78.1 | % | | $ | 314.5 |
| | 71.0 | % |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Year Ended December 31, (in millions) | 2022 | | 2021 | | 2020 |
Book income (loss) before income taxes | $ | 956.4 | | | | | $ | 706.6 | | | | | $ | (31.3) | | | |
Tax expense (benefit) at statutory federal income tax rate | 200.8 | | | 21.0 | % | | 148.3 | | | 21.0 | % | | (6.6) | | | 21.0 | % |
Increases (reductions) in taxes resulting from: | | | | | | | | | | | |
State income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit | 4.5 | | | 0.5 | | | 14.1 | | | 2.0 | | | (11.7) | | | 37.4 | |
Amortization of regulatory liabilities | (38.5) | | | (4.0) | | | (39.1) | | | (5.5) | | | (38.4) | | | 122.7 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Fines and penalties | 0.3 | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 11.8 | | | (37.7) | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Employee stock ownership plan dividends and other compensation | (1.2) | | | (0.1) | | | (1.2) | | | (0.2) | | | (1.3) | | | 4.2 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Deferred taxes on TCJA regulatory liability divested | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 23.3 | | | (74.5) | |
Tax accrual adjustments | 0.2 | | | — | | | (0.1) | | | — | | | 8.9 | | | (28.4) | |
Federal tax credits | (2.3) | | | (0.2) | | | (2.1) | | | (0.3) | | | (2.5) | | | 8.0 | |
Other adjustments | 0.8 | | | — | | | (2.1) | | | (0.3) | | | (0.6) | | | 1.9 | |
Income Taxes | $ | 164.6 | | | 17.2 | % | | $ | 117.8 | | | 16.7 | % | | $ | (17.1) | | | 54.6 | % |
The difference in tax expense year-over-year has a relative impact on the effective tax rate proportional to pretax income or loss. The 0.5% increase in effective tax rate in 2022 versus 2021 was primarily due to decreased amortization of excess deferred income taxes, offset by the state jurisdictional mix of pre-tax income in 2022 tax effected at statutory tax rates, and the reduction of the Pennsylvania corporate income tax rates were 24.4%, 78.1% and 71.0% in 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively. rate.
The 53.7%37.9% decrease in effective tax rate in 20192021 versus 20182020 was primarily the result of not having significanthigher pre-tax income, state jurisdictional mix of pre-tax income in 2021 tax decreases resulting from stateeffected at statutory tax rates and increased amortization of excess deferred federal income taxes in 2021 compared to 2020. These items were offset by decreased deferred tax expense recognized on the sale of Columbia of Massachusetts' regulatory proceedings asliability in 2018. Additionally, there was an increase2020, established due to TCJA in 2017, that would have otherwise been recognized over the effective tax rate related to the non-cash impairment of goodwill in 2019amortization period, 2020 non-deductible penalties and valuation allowance related to Columbia of Massachusetts (see Note 6, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets" for additional information)
2020 one-time tax accrual adjustments.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
and non-deductible fines and penalties related to the Greater Lawrence Incident (see Note 19, "Legal Proceedings" for additional information). The rate is also impacted by the relative impact of permanent differences on higher pre-tax income.
The 7.1% increase in the overall effective tax rate in 2018 versus 2017 was primarily the result of state regulatory proceedings which resulted in a $127.8 million decrease in federal income taxes offset by a related increase in state income taxes of $7.1 million. Additionally, the increase was driven by a $26.9 million decrease in income taxes related to amortization of the regulatory liability primarily associated with excess deferred taxes.
Net Deferred Income Tax Liability Components
Components.Deferred income taxes result from temporary differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and the tax basis of existing assets and liabilities. The principal components of our net deferred tax liability were as follows:
|
| | | | | | | |
At December 31, (in millions) | 2019 | | 2018 |
Deferred tax liabilities | | | |
Accelerated depreciation and other property differences | $ | 2,516.9 |
| | $ | 2,458.0 |
|
Other regulatory assets | 381.5 |
| | 375.4 |
|
Total Deferred Tax Liabilities | 2,898.4 |
| | 2,833.4 |
|
Deferred tax assets | | | |
Other regulatory liabilities and deferred investment tax credits (including TCJA) | 336.1 |
| | 365.5 |
|
Pension and other postretirement/postemployment benefits | 152.1 |
| | 157.5 |
|
Net operating loss carryforward and AMT credit carryforward | 765.9 |
| | 849.8 |
|
Environmental liabilities | 25.4 |
| | 24.4 |
|
Other accrued liabilities | 35.3 |
| | 37.5 |
|
Other, net | 98.3 |
| | 68.2 |
|
Total Deferred Tax Assets | 1,413.1 |
| | 1,502.9 |
|
Net Deferred Tax Liabilities | $ | 1,485.3 |
| | $ | 1,330.5 |
|
| | | | | | | | | | | |
At December 31, (in millions) | 2022 | | 2021 |
Deferred tax liabilities | | | |
Accelerated depreciation and other property differences | $ | 2,527.9 | | | $ | 2,454.4 | |
| | | |
Other regulatory assets | 348.4 | | | 308.6 | |
| | | |
Total Deferred Tax Liabilities | 2,876.3 | | | 2,763.0 | |
Deferred tax assets | | | |
Other regulatory liabilities and deferred investment tax credits (including TCJA) | 294.3 | | | 284.7 | |
| | | |
Pension and other postretirement/postemployment benefits | 124.7 | | | 104.8 | |
Net operating loss carryforward and AMT credit carryforward | 491.0 | | | 545.9 | |
Environmental liabilities | 20.7 | | | 22.2 | |
Other accrued liabilities | 55.9 | | | 42.1 | |
| | | |
Other, net | 43.0 | | | 111.7 | |
Total Deferred Tax Assets | 1,029.6 | | | 1,111.4 | |
Valuation Allowance | (7.8) | | | (7.8) | |
Net Deferred Tax Assets | 1,021.8 | | | 1,103.6 | |
Net Deferred Tax Liabilities | $ | 1,854.5 | | | $ | 1,659.4 | |
At December 31, 2019,2022, we had $657.1 million ofhave federal net operating loss carryforwards.carryforwards of $410.0 million (tax effected). The federal net operating loss carryforwards are available to offset taxable income and will begin to expire in 2028. 2036. We believe it is more likely than not that we will realize the benefit from the federal net operating loss carryforwards.
We also have $1.6$73.2 million (tax effected, net of federal alternative minimum tax credit carryforwards which do not expire. In addition, we have $1.4 million in charitable contribution carryforwards to offset future taxable income, which begin to expire in 2023. We also have $107.2 million (net)benefit) of state net operating loss carryforwards. Depending on the jurisdiction in which the state net operating loss was generated, the carryforwards will begin to expire in 2028.
We believe it is more likely than not that we will realizea portion of the benefit from certain state NOL carryforwards will not be realized. In recognition of this risk, we have provided a valuation allowance of $7.8 million (net) on the deferred tax assets related to sale of Massachusetts Business assets reflected in the state net operating loss carryforwards.carryforward presented above.
Unrecognized Tax Benefits
Benefits.A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amounts of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits (in millions) | 2019 | | 2018 | | 2017 |
Unrecognized Tax Benefits - Opening Balance | $ | 1.2 |
| | $ | 1.4 |
| | $ | 2.6 |
|
Gross decreases - tax positions in prior period | (0.6 | ) | | (0.4 | ) | | (1.4 | ) |
Gross increases - current period tax positions | 22.6 |
| | 0.2 |
| | 0.2 |
|
Unrecognized Tax Benefits - Ending Balance | $ | 23.2 |
| | $ | 1.2 |
| | $ | 1.4 |
|
Offset for net operating loss carryforwards | (22.6 | ) | | — |
| | — |
|
Balance - Less Net Operating Loss Carryforwards | $ | 0.6 |
| | $ | 1.2 |
| | $ | 1.4 |
|
In 2019, we resolved prior unrecognized tax benefits of $0.6 million and established new unrecognized tax benefits related to state matters of $22.6 million. | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
At December 31, 2022, (in millions) | 2022 | | 2021 | | 2020 |
Opening Balance | $ | 21.7 | | | $ | 21.7 | | | $ | 23.2 | |
| | | | | |
Gross decreases - tax positions in prior period | — | | | — | | | (1.5) | |
Gross increases - current period tax positions | — | | | — | | | — | |
Ending Balance | $ | 21.7 | | | $ | 21.7 | | | $ | 21.7 | |
| | | | | |
Offset for net operating loss carryforwards | (21.7) | | | (21.7) | | | (21.7) | |
Balance, Less Net Operating Loss Carryforwards | $ | — | | | $ | — | | | $ | — | |
We present accrued interest on unrecognized tax benefits, accrued interest on other income tax liabilities and tax penalties in "Income Taxes" on our Statements of Consolidated Income (Loss). Interest expense recorded on unrecognized tax benefits and other income tax liabilities was immaterial for all periods presented. There were 0no accruals for penalties recorded in the Statements of Consolidated Income (Loss) for the years ended December 31, 2019, 20182022, 2021 and 2017,2020, and there were 0no balances for accrued penalties recorded on the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 20192022 and 2018.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
2021.
We are subject to income taxation in the United States and various state jurisdictions, primarily Indiana, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Maryland and Virginia.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
We participate in the IRS CAP, which provides the opportunity to resolve tax matters with the IRS before filing each year's consolidated federal income tax return. As of December 31, 2019,2022, tax years through 20182021 have been audited and are effectively closed to further assessment. The Company has transitioned to the Bridge Phase of the IRS CAP for the year ended December 31, 2022, which will remain open until an audit is completed or the statute of tax year 2019 under the CAP program is expected to be completed in 2020.limitation expires.
The statute of limitations in each of the state jurisdictions in which we operate remains open untilbetween 3-4 years from the years are settled for federal income tax purposes, at which time amendeddate the state income tax returns reflecting all federal income tax adjustments are filed. As of December 31, 2019,2022, there were no state income tax audits in progress that would have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements.
In December 22, 2017, the TCJA was signed into law. As a result of the implementation of the TCJA, we remeasured deferred taxes and recognized $161.1 million of income tax expense in our Consolidated Statements of Income (Loss) for the year ended December 31, 2017. The result of this remeasurement was a reduction in the net deferred tax liability of approximately $1.3 billion, including approximately $0.4 billion of regulatory "gross up" to account for over collection of past taxes from customers. Offsetting the reduction in net deferred tax liabilities was an increase in regulatory liabilities of approximately $1.5 billion as of December 31, 2017. In 2018, we received regulatory orders on the treatment of excess deferred taxes from the jurisdictions in which we operate. As a result of these orders, we reduced our regulatory liability related to excess deferred income taxes by $120.7 million (net of tax). This adjustment is reflected in "Income Taxes" on our Consolidated Statements of Income (Loss) for the year ended December 31, 2018.
As of December 31, 2019, we received approval from regulators to return excess deferred taxes in all of our jurisdictions in accordance with regulatory proceedings.
On December 22, 2017, the SEC issued Staff Accounting Bulletin 118 ("SAB 118"), which provides guidance on accounting for tax effects of the TCJA. SAB 118 provides a measurement period that should not extend beyond one year from the TCJA enactment date for companies to complete the accounting under ASC 740. There were no adjustments recorded in the SAB 118 remeasurement period in 2018.
11.12. Pension and Other PostretirementPostemployment Benefits
We provide defined contribution plans and noncontributory defined benefit retirement plans that cover certain of our employees. Benefits under the defined benefit retirement plans reflect the employees’ compensation, years of service and age at retirement. Additionally, we provide health care and life insurance benefits for certain retired employees. The majority of employees may become eligible for these benefits if they reach retirement age while working for us. The expected cost of such benefits is accrued during the employees’ years of service. Current rates of rate-regulated companies include postretirement benefit costs, including amortization of the regulatory assets that arose prior to inclusion of these costs in rates. For most plans, cash contributions are remitted to grantor trusts.
Our Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans’ Asset Management. WeThe Board has delegated oversight of the pension and other postretirement benefit plans’ assets to the NiSource Benefits Committee (“the Committee”). The Committee has adopted investment policy statements for the pension and other postretirement benefit plans’ assets. For the pension plans, we employ a liability-driven investing strategystrategy. A total return approach is utilized for the pension plan, as noted below.other postretirement benefit plans’ assets. A mix of equities and fixed incomediversified investments are used to maximize the long-term return of plan assets and hedge the liabilities at a prudent level of risk. We utilize a total returnThe investment approach for the other postretirement benefit plans.portfolio includes U.S. and non-U.S. equities, real estate, long-term and intermediate-term fixed income and alternative investments. Risk tolerance is established through careful consideration of plan liabilities, plan funded status, and asset class volatility. The investment portfolio contains a diversified blend of equity and fixed income investments. Furthermore, equity investments are diversified across U.S. and non-U.S. stocks, as well as growth, value, small and large capitalizations. Other assets such as private equity funds are used judiciously to enhance long-term returns while improving portfolio diversification. Derivatives may be used to gain market exposure in an efficient and timely manner; however, derivatives may not be used to leverage the portfolio beyond the market value of the underlying assets. Investment risk is measured and monitored on an ongoing basis through quarterly investment portfolio reviews, annual liability measurements, and periodic asset/liability studies.
We utilize a building block approach with proper consideration of diversification and rebalancing inIn determining the expected long-term rate of return foron plan assets. Historicalassets, historical markets are studied, and long-term historical relationships between equities and fixed income are analyzed to ensure that they are consistent with the widely accepted capital market principle that assets with higher volatility generate greater return over the long run. Currentand current market factors, such as inflation and interest rates are evaluated beforewith consideration of diversification and rebalancing. Our expected long-term rate of return on assets is based on assumptions regarding target asset allocations and corresponding long-term capital market assumptions are determined. Peer data and historical returns are reviewed to check for reasonability and appropriateness.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
each asset class. The most important component of anpension plans’ investment strategy is the portfolio asset mix, or the allocation between the various classes of securities available to the pension and other postretirement benefit plans for investment purposes. The asset mix and acceptable minimum and maximum ranges established for our plan assets represents a long-term view and are listed in the table below.
In 2012, a dynamic asset allocation policy for the pension fund was approved. This policy calls for a gradual reduction in the allocation of return-seeking assets (equities, real estate and private equity) and a corresponding increase in the allocation of liability-hedging assets (fixed income) as the funded status of the plans increase above 90% (as measured by the market value of qualified pension plan assets divided by the projected benefit obligations of the qualified pension plans). A new asset-liability study was completed in 2018 resulting in a more conservative glide path and an increase in the allocation to liability-hedging assets held in the portfolio.plans’ increase.
As of December 31, 2019,2022 and December 31, 2021, the asset mix and acceptable minimum and maximum ranges established by the policy for the pension and other postretirement benefit plans are as follows:
Asset Mix Policy of Funds: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
December 31, 2022 | Defined Benefit Pension Plan | | Postretirement Benefit Plan |
Asset Category | Minimum | | Maximum | | Minimum | | Maximum |
Domestic Equities | 7% | | 27% | | 0% | | 55% |
International Equities | 3% | | 13% | | 0% | | 25% |
Fixed Income | 69% | | 81% | | 20% | | 100% |
| | | | | | | |
Real Estate | 0% | | 3% | | 0% | | 0% |
Private Equity | 0% | | 3% | | 0% | | 0% |
Short-Term Investments | 0% | | 10% | | 0% | | 10% |
|
| | | | | | | |
| Defined Benefit Pension Plan | | Postretirement Benefit Plan |
Asset Category | Minimum | | Maximum | | Minimum | | Maximum |
Domestic Equities | 12% | | 32% | | 0% | | 55% |
International Equities | 6% | | 16% | | 0% | | 25% |
Fixed Income | 59% | | 71% | | 20% | | 100% |
Real Estate | 0% | | 7% | | 0% | | 0% |
Short-Term Investments/Other | 0% | | 15% | | 0% | | 10% |
85
As of December 31, 2018, the asset mix and acceptable minimum and maximum ranges established by the policy for the pension and other postretirement benefit plans were as follows:
Asset Mix Policy of Funds:
|
| | | | | | | |
| Defined Benefit Pension Plan | | Postretirement Benefit Plan |
Asset Category | Minimum | | Maximum | | Minimum | | Maximum |
Domestic Equities | 12% | | 32% | | 0% | | 55% |
International Equities | 6% | | 16% | | 0% | | 25% |
Fixed Income | 59% | | 71% | | 20% | | 100% |
Real Estate | 0% | | 7% | | 0% | | 0% |
Short-Term Investments/Other | 0% | | 15% | | 0% | | 10% |
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
December 31, 2021 | Defined Benefit Pension Plan | | Postretirement Benefit Plan |
Asset Category | Minimum | | Maximum | | Minimum | | Maximum |
Domestic Equities | 7% | | 27% | | 0% | | 55% |
International Equities | 3% | | 13% | | 0% | | 25% |
Fixed Income | 69% | | 81% | | 20% | | 100% |
| | | | | | | |
Real Estate | 0% | | 3% | | 0% | | 0% |
Private Equity | 0% | | 3% | | 0% | | 0% |
Short-Term Investments | 0% | | 10% | | 0% | | 10% |
The actual Pension Plan and Postretirement Plan Asset Mix at December 31, 20192022 and December 31, 20182021 are as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Defined Benefit Pension Assets(1) | | December 31, 2022 | | Postretirement Benefit Plan Assets | | December 31, 2022 |
Asset Class (in millions) | Asset Value | | % of Total Assets | | Asset Value | | % of Total Assets |
Domestic Equities | $ | 231.1 | | | 16.2 | % | | $ | 86.9 | | | 38.6 | % |
International Equities | 119.0 | | | 8.4 | % | | 36.6 | | | 16.3 | % |
Fixed Income | 1,004.3 | | | 70.6 | % | | 94.7 | | | 42.1 | % |
| | | | | | | |
Real Estate | 5.0 | | | 0.3 | % | | — | | | — | |
Cash/Other | 63.4 | | | 4.5 | % | | 6.7 | | | 3.0 | % |
Total | $ | 1,422.8 | | | 100.0 | % | | $ | 224.9 | | | 100.0 | % |
| | | | | | | |
| Defined Benefit Pension Assets(1) | | December 31, 2021 | | Postretirement Benefit Plan Assets | | December 31, 2021 |
Asset Class (in millions) | Asset Value | | % of Total Assets | | Asset Value | | % of Total Assets |
Domestic Equities | $ | 324.3 | | | 16.4 | % | | $ | 118.6 | | | 40.4 | % |
International Equities | 150.9 | | | 7.6 | % | | 50.5 | | | 17.2 | % |
Fixed Income | 1,382.3 | | | 69.7 | % | | 118.8 | | | 40.4 | % |
Real Estate | 37.2 | | | 1.9 | % | | — | | | — | |
Cash/Other | 87.0 | | | 4.4 | % | | 5.8 | | | 2.0 | % |
Total | $ | 1,981.7 | | | 100.0 | % | | $ | 293.7 | | | 100.0 | % |
(1):
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Defined Benefit Pension Assets | | December 31, 2019 | | Postretirement Benefit Plan Assets | | December 31, 2019 |
Asset Class (in millions) | Asset Value | | % of Total Assets | | Asset Value | | % of Total Assets |
Domestic Equities | $ | 446.4 |
| | 21.5 | % | | $ | 93.8 |
| | 35.9 | % |
International Equities | 205.0 |
| | 9.9 | % | | 40.7 |
| | 15.6 | % |
Fixed Income | 1,337.2 |
| | 64.2 | % | | 119.5 |
| | 45.7 | % |
Real Estate | 53.9 |
| | 2.6 | % | | — |
| | — |
|
Cash/Other | 38.4 |
| | 1.8 | % | | 7.4 |
| | 2.8 | % |
Total | $ | 2,080.9 |
| | 100.0 | % | | $ | 261.4 |
| | 100.0 | % |
| | | | | | | |
| Defined Benefit Pension Assets | | December 31, 2018 | | Postretirement Benefit Plan Assets | | December 31, 2018 |
Asset Class (in millions) | Asset Value | | % of Total Assets | | Asset Value | | % of Total Assets |
Domestic Equities | $ | 355.5 |
| | 19.0 | % | | $ | 78.8 |
| | 36.4 | % |
International Equities | 165.5 |
| | 8.9 | % | | 17.5 |
| | 8.1 | % |
Fixed Income | 1,241.9 |
| | 66.5 | % | | 115.1 |
| | 53.2 | % |
Real Estate | 52.7 |
| | 2.8 | % | | — |
| | — |
|
Cash/Other | 52.1 |
| | 2.8 | % | | 4.9 |
| | 2.3 | % |
Total | $ | 1,867.7 |
| | 100.0 | % | | $ | 216.3 |
| | 100.0 | % |
Total includes accrued dividends and pending trades with brokers.The categorization of investments into the asset classes in the tabletables above are based on definitions established by our Benefitsthe Committee.
Fair Value Measurements. The following table sets forth, by level within the fair value hierarchy, the Master Trustpension and other postretirement benefits investment assets at fair value as of December 31, 20192022 and 2018.2021. Assets and liabilities are classified in their entirety based on the lowest levelobservability of input that is significant toinputs used in determining the fair value measurement. Total Master TrustThere were no investment assets in the pension and other postretirement benefits investment assets at fair valuetrusts classified within Level 3 were $0 million and $86.1 million as offor the years ended December 31, 20192022 and 2021.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
We use the following valuation techniques to determine fair value. For the year ended December 31, 2018, respectively. Such amounts2022, there were approximately 0% and 4%no significant changes to valuation techniques to determine the fair value of the Master Trustour pension and other postretirement benefits’ total investments as reported on the statement of net assets available for benefits at fair value as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively.benefits' assets.
Valuation Techniques Used to Determine Fair Value:
Level 1 Measurements
Most common and preferred stocks are traded in active markets on national and international securities exchanges and are valued at closing prices on the last business day of each period presented. Cash is stated at cost, which approximates fair value, with the exception of cash held in foreign currencies which fluctuates with changes in the exchange rates. Short-term bills and notes are priced based on quoted market values.
Level 2 Measurements
Most U.S. Government Agency obligations, mortgage/asset-backed securities, and corporate fixed income securities are generally valued by benchmarking model-derived prices to quoted market prices and trade data for identical or comparable securities. To the extent that quoted prices are not available, fair value is determined based on a valuation model that includes inputs such as interest rate yield curves and credit spreads. Securities traded in markets that are not considered active are valued based on quoted market prices, broker or dealer quotations, or alternative pricing sources with reasonable levels of price transparency. Other fixed income includes futures and options which are priced on bid valuation or settlement pricing.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
Level 3 Measurements
Investments with unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value of the assets and liabilities are classified as level 3 investments.
Not Classified
Commingled funds, private equity limited partnerships and real estate partnerships hold underlying investments that have prices derived from quoted prices in active markets and are not classified within the fair value hierarchy. Instead, these assets are measured at estimated fair value using the net asset value per share of the investments. Commingled funds' underlying assets are principally marketable equity and fixed income securities. Units held in commingled funds are valued at the unit value as reported by the investment managers. Private equity funds invest capital in non-public companies and real estate funds invest in natural resources, commercial real estate and distressed real estate.estate directly or through related debt instruments. The fair value of these investments is determined by reference to the funds’ underlying assets.
For the year ended December 31, 2019, there were no significant changes to valuation techniques to determine the fair value of our pension and other postretirement benefits' assets.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2019:2022:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(in millions) | December 31, 2019 | | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) |
Pension plan assets: | | | | | | | |
Cash | $ | 6.7 |
| | $ | 6.7 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | — |
|
Fixed income securities | | | | | | | |
Government | 319.6 |
| | — |
| | 319.6 |
| | — |
|
Corporate | 651.8 |
| | — |
| | 651.8 |
| | — |
|
Mutual Funds | | | | | | | |
U.S. multi-strategy | 140.5 |
| | 140.5 |
| | — |
| | — |
|
International equities | 56.9 |
| | 56.9 |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Private equity limited partnerships(3) | | | | | | | |
U.S. multi-strategy(1) | 14.0 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
International multi-strategy(2) | 8.5 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Distressed opportunities | 0.5 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Real estate | 53.9 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Commingled funds(3) | | | | | | | |
Short-term money markets | 14.8 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
U.S. equities | 305.9 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
International equities | 148.1 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Fixed income | 351.8 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Pension plan assets subtotal | 2,073.0 |
| | 204.1 |
| | 971.4 |
| | — |
|
Other postretirement benefit plan assets: | | | | | | | |
Mutual funds | | | | | | | |
U.S. multi-strategy | 81.7 |
| | 81.7 |
| | — |
| | — |
|
International equities | 20.6 |
| | 20.6 |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Fixed income | 119.2 |
| | 119.2 |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Commingled funds(3) | | | | | | | |
Short-term money markets | 7.7 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
U.S. equities | 12.1 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
International equities | 20.1 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Other postretirement benefit plan assets subtotal | 261.4 |
| | 221.5 |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Due to brokers, net(4) | (2.8 | ) | | — |
| | (2.8 | ) | | — |
|
Accrued income/dividends | 10.7 |
| | 10.7 |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Total pension and other postretirement benefit plan assets | $ | 2,342.3 |
| | $ | 436.3 |
| | $ | 968.6 |
| | $ | — |
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(in millions) | December 31, 2022 | | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) |
Pension plan assets: | | | | | | | |
Cash | $ | 2.5 | | | $ | 2.0 | | | $ | 0.5 | | | $ | — | |
Equity securities | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
International equities | 0.5 | | | 0.5 | | | — | | | — | |
Fixed income securities | | | | | | | |
Government | 316.3 | | | — | | | 316.3 | | | — | |
Corporate | 407.8 | | | — | | | 407.8 | | | — | |
Mortgages/ Asset Backed Securities | 2.3 | | | — | | | 2.3 | | | — | |
Other fixed income | 1.9 | | | 1.9 | | | — | | | — | |
Mutual Funds | | | | | | | |
U.S. multi-strategy | 97.4 | | | 97.4 | | | — | | | — | |
International equities | 29.0 | | | 29.0 | | | — | | | — | |
Fixed income | 0.2 | | | 0.2 | | | — | | | — | |
Private equity limited partnerships(3) | | | | | | | |
U.S. multi-strategy(1) | 6.3 | | | — | | | — | | | — | |
International multi-strategy(2) | 2.3 | | | — | | | — | | | — | |
Distressed opportunities | 0.1 | | | — | | | — | | | — | |
Real estate(3) | 5.0 | | | — | | | — | | | — | |
Commingled funds(3) | | | | | | | |
Short-term money markets | 46.2 | | | — | | | — | | | — | |
U.S. equities | 133.7 | | | — | | | — | | | — | |
International equities | 89.6 | | | — | | | — | | | — | |
Fixed income | 275.9 | | | — | | | — | | | — | |
Pension plan assets subtotal | $ | 1,417.0 | | | $ | 131.0 | | | $ | 726.9 | | | $ | — | |
Other postretirement benefit plan assets: | | | | | | | |
Mutual funds | | | | | | | |
U.S. multi-strategy | 76.2 | | | 76.2 | | | — | | | — | |
International equities | 16.3 | | | 16.3 | | | — | | | — | |
Fixed income | 94.7 | | | 94.7 | | | — | | | — | |
Commingled funds(3) | | | | | | | |
Short-term money markets | 17.4 | | | — | | | — | | | — | |
U.S. equities | 10.7 | | | — | | | — | | | — | |
International equities | 20.3 | | | — | | | — | | | — | |
| | | | | | | |
Other postretirement benefit plan assets subtotal | $ | 235.6 | | | $ | 187.2 | | | $ | — | | | $ | — | |
Due to brokers, net(4) | (2.0) | | | — | | | (2.0) | | | — | |
Receivables/payables | (10.7) | | | — | | | (10.7) | | | — | |
Accrued income/dividends | 7.8 | | | 7.8 | | | — | | | — | |
Total pension and other postretirement benefit plan assets | $ | 1,647.7 | | | $ | 326.0 | | | $ | 714.2 | | | $ | — | |
(1)This class includes limited partnerships/fund of funds that invest in a diverse portfolio of private equity strategies, including buy-outs, venture capital, growth capital, special situations and secondary markets, primarily inside the United States.
(2)This class includes limited partnerships/fund of funds that invest a in diverse portfolio of private equity strategies, including buy-outs, venture capital, growth capital, special situations and secondary markets, primarily outside the United States.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
(3)This class of investments is measured at fair value using the net asset value per share and has not been classified in the fair value hierarchy.
(4)This class represents pending trades with brokers.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
The table below sets forth a summary of changes in the fair value of the Plan’s Level 3 assets for the year ended December 31, 2019:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Balance at January 1, 2019 | | Transfers out (Level 3)(1) | | Balance at December 31, 2019 |
Private equity limited partnerships | | | | | |
U.S. multi-strategy | 18.5 |
| | (18.5 | ) | | — |
|
International multi-strategy | 12.5 |
| | (12.5 | ) | | — |
|
Distressed opportunities | 2.4 |
| | (2.4 | ) | | — |
|
Real estate | 52.7 |
| | (52.7 | ) | | — |
|
Total | $ | 86.1 |
| | $ | (86.1 | ) | | $ | — |
|
(1) Level 3 assets from the prior year were reclassified in the current year presentation and included within the fair value hierarchy table as of December 31, 2019 as “Not Classified" investments for which fair value is measured using net asset value per share, consistent with the definitions described above.
The table below sets forth a summary of unfunded commitments, redemption frequency and redemption notice periods for certain investments that are measured at fair value using the net asset value per share for the year ended December 31, 2019:2022:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(in millions) | Fair Value | | Unfunded Commitments | | Redemption Frequency | | Redemption Notice Period |
Commingled Funds | | | | | | | |
Short-term money markets | $ | 63.6 | | | $ | — | | | Daily | | 1 day |
U.S. equities | 144.4 | | | — | | | Daily | | 1 day - 5 days |
International equities | 109.9 | | | — | | | Monthly | | 10 days-30 days |
Fixed income | 275.9 | | | — | | | Daily | | 3 days |
Private Equity and Real Estate Limited Partnerships(1) | 13.7 | | | 11.6 | | | N/A | | N/A |
Total | $ | 607.5 | | | $ | 11.6 | | | | | |
(1)Private equity and real estate limited partnerships typically call capital over a 3-5 year period and pay out distributions as the underlying investments are liquidated. The typical expected life of these limited partnerships is 0-15 years, and these investments typically cannot be redeemed prior to liquidation.
|
| | | | | | | |
(in millions) | Fair Value | | Redemption Frequency | | Redemption Notice Period |
Commingled Funds | | | | | |
Short-term money markets | $ | 22.5 |
| | Daily | | 1 day |
U.S. equities | 318.0 |
| | Monthly | | 1 day |
International equities | 168.2 |
| | Monthly | | 10-30 days |
Fixed income | 351.8 |
| | Daily | | 3 days |
Total | $ | 860.5 |
| | | | |
89
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2018:2021:
| | (in millions) | December 31, 2018 | | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | (in millions) | December 31, 2021 | | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) |
Pension plan assets: | | | | | | | | Pension plan assets: | |
Cash | $ | 9.2 |
| | $ | 8.8 |
| | $ | 0.4 |
| | $ | — |
| Cash | $ | 10.3 | | | $ | 9.7 | | | $ | 0.6 | | | $ | — | |
Equity securities | | | | | | | | Equity securities | |
U.S. equities | 0.2 |
| | 0.2 |
| | — |
| | — |
| |
International equities | | International equities | 0.5 | | | 0.5 | | | — | | | — | |
| Fixed income securities | | | | | | | | Fixed income securities | |
Government | 250.2 |
| | — |
| | 250.2 |
| | — |
| Government | 387.3 | | | — | | | 387.3 | | | — | |
Corporate | 442.8 |
| | — |
| | 442.8 |
| | — |
| Corporate | 645.9 | | | — | | | 645.9 | | | — | |
| Mutual Funds | | | | | | | | Mutual Funds | |
U.S. multi-strategy | 110.3 |
| | 110.3 |
| | — |
| | — |
| U.S. multi-strategy | 128.4 | | | 128.4 | | | — | | | — | |
International equities | 43.2 |
| | 43.2 |
| | — |
| | — |
| International equities | 38.7 | | | 38.7 | | | — | | | — | |
Fixed income | 166.8 |
| | 166.8 |
| | — |
| | — |
| |
Private equity limited partnerships | | | | | | | | |
| Private equity limited partnerships(3) | | Private equity limited partnerships(3) | |
U.S. multi-strategy(1) | 18.5 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 18.5 |
| U.S. multi-strategy(1) | 10.9 | | | — | | | — | | | — | |
International multi-strategy(2) | 12.5 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 12.5 |
| International multi-strategy(2) | 4.5 | | | — | | | — | | | — | |
Distressed opportunities | 2.4 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 2.4 |
| Distressed opportunities | 0.1 | | | — | | | — | | | — | |
Real Estate | 52.7 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 52.7 |
| |
Real estate(3) | | Real estate(3) | 37.2 | | | — | | | — | | | — | |
Commingled funds(3) | | | | | | | | Commingled funds(3) | |
Short-term money markets | 18.3 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| Short-term money markets | 55.0 | | | — | | | — | | | — | |
U.S. equities | 245.2 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| U.S. equities | 195.9 | | | — | | | — | | | — | |
International equities | 122.3 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| International equities | 111.7 | | | — | | | — | | | — | |
Fixed income | 365.7 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| Fixed income | 349.1 | | | — | | | — | | | — | |
Pension plan assets subtotal | 1,860.3 |
| | 329.3 |
| | 693.4 |
| | 86.1 |
| Pension plan assets subtotal | $ | 1,975.5 | | | $ | 177.3 | | | $ | 1,033.8 | | | $ | — | |
Other postretirement benefit plan assets: | | | | | | | | Other postretirement benefit plan assets: | |
Mutual funds | | | | | | | | Mutual funds | |
U.S. equities | 68.4 |
| | 68.4 |
| | — |
| | — |
| |
U.S. multi-strategy | | U.S. multi-strategy | 103.8 | | | 103.8 | | | — | | | — | |
International equities | 17.5 |
| | 17.5 |
| | — |
| | — |
| International equities | 24.4 | | | 24.4 | | | — | | | — | |
Fixed income | 114.8 |
| | 114.8 |
| | — |
| | — |
| Fixed income | 118.5 | | | 118.5 | | | — | | | — | |
Commingled funds(3) | | | | | | | | Commingled funds(3) | |
Short-term money markets | 5.2 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| Short-term money markets | 5.8 | | | — | | | — | | | — | |
U.S. equities | 10.4 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| U.S. equities | 14.8 | | | — | | | — | | | — | |
International equities | | International equities | 26.1 | | | — | | | — | | | — | |
Other postretirement benefit plan assets subtotal | 216.3 |
| | 200.7 |
| | — |
| | — |
| Other postretirement benefit plan assets subtotal | $ | 293.4 | | | $ | 246.7 | | | $ | — | | | $ | — | |
Due to brokers, net(4) | (1.1 | ) | | — |
| | (1.1 | ) | | — |
| Due to brokers, net(4) | (1.8) | | | — | | | (1.8) | | | — | |
Accrued investment income/dividends | 8.6 |
| | 8.6 |
| | — |
| | — |
| |
Receivables/payables | | Receivables/payables | 0.3 | | | — | | | 0.3 | | | — | |
Accrued income/dividends | | Accrued income/dividends | 8.0 | | | 8.0 | | | — | | | — | |
Total pension and other postretirement benefit plan assets | $ | 2,084.1 |
| | $ | 538.6 |
| | $ | 692.3 |
| | $ | 86.1 |
| Total pension and other postretirement benefit plan assets | $ | 2,275.4 | | | $ | 432.0 | | | $ | 1,032.3 | | | $ | — | |
(1)This class includes limited partnerships/fund of funds that invest in a diverse portfolio of private equity strategies, including buy-outs, venture capital, growth capital, special situations and secondary markets, primarily inside the United States.
(2)This class includes limited partnerships/fund of funds that invest in a diverse portfolio of private equity strategies, including buy-outs, venture capital, growth capital, special situations and secondary markets, primarily outside the United States.
(3)This class of investments is measured at fair value using the net asset value per share and has not been classified in the fair value hierarchy.
(4)This class represents pending trades with brokers.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
The table below sets forth a summary of changes in the fair value of the Plan’s Level 3 assets for the year ended December 31, 2018:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Balance at January 1, 2018 | | Total gains or losses (unrealized / realized) | | Purchases | | (Sales) | | Balance at December 31, 2018 |
Private equity limited partnerships | | | | | | | | | |
U.S. multi-strategy | 26.7 |
| | 2.4 |
| | 0.7 |
| | (11.3 | ) | | 18.5 |
|
International multi-strategy | 19.1 |
| | (0.6 | ) | | — |
| | (6.0 | ) | | 12.5 |
|
Distress opportunities | 3.2 |
| | (0.8 | ) | | — |
| | — |
| | 2.4 |
|
Real estate | 49.9 |
| | 1.7 |
| | 1.8 |
| | (0.7 | ) | | 52.7 |
|
Total | $ | 98.9 |
| | $ | 2.7 |
| | $ | 2.5 |
| | $ | (18.0 | ) | | $ | 86.1 |
|
The table below sets forth a summary of unfunded commitments, redemption frequency and redemption notice periods for certain investments that are measured at fair value using the net asset value per share for the year ended December 31, 2018:2021:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(in millions) | Fair Value | | Unfunded Commitments | | Redemption Frequency | | Redemption Notice Period |
Commingled Funds | | | | | | | |
Short-term money markets | $ | 60.8 | | | $ | — | | | Daily | | 1 day |
U.S. equities | 210.7 | | | — | | | Daily | | 1 day -5 days |
International equities | 137.8 | | | — | | | Monthly | | 10 days - 30 days |
Fixed income | 349.1 | | | — | | | Daily | | 3 days |
Private Equity and Real Estate Limited Partnerships(1) | 20.4 | | | 12.1 | | | N/A | | N/A |
Total | $ | 778.8 | | | $ | 12.1 | | | | | |
(1)Private equity and real estate limited partnerships typically call capital over a 3-5 year period and pay out distributions as the underlying investments are liquidated. The typical expected life of these limited partnerships is 0-15 years, and these investments typically cannot be redeemed prior to liquidation.
|
| | | | | | | |
(in millions) | Fair Value | | Redemption Frequency | | Redemption Notice Period |
Commingled Funds | | | | | |
Short-term money markets | $ | 23.5 |
| | Daily | | 1 day |
U.S. equities | 255.6 |
| | Monthly | | 3 days |
International equities | 122.3 |
| | Monthly | | 10-30 days |
Fixed income | 365.7 |
| | Monthly | | 3 days |
Total | $ | 767.1 |
| | | | |
91
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
Our Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans’ Funded Status and Related Disclosure. The following table provides a reconciliation of the plans’ funded status and amounts reflected in our Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31 based on a December 31 measurement date:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Pension Benefits | | Other Postretirement Benefits |
(in millions) | 2019 | | 2018 | | 2019 | | 2018 |
Change in projected benefit obligation(1) | | | | | | | |
Benefit obligation at beginning of year | $ | 1,981.3 |
| | $ | 2,192.6 |
| | $ | 492.5 |
| | $ | 556.3 |
|
Service cost | 29.2 |
| | 31.3 |
| | 5.1 |
| | 5.0 |
|
Interest cost | 72.3 |
| | 67.1 |
| | 19.2 |
| | 17.6 |
|
Plan participants’ contributions | — |
| | — |
| | 4.8 |
| | 5.7 |
|
Plan amendments | — |
| | 0.2 |
| | 5.1 |
| | 0.1 |
|
Actuarial (gain) loss | 204.3 |
| | (103.9 | ) | | 88.8 |
| | (51.7 | ) |
Settlement loss | — |
| | 0.8 |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Benefits paid | (156.6 | ) | | (206.8 | ) | | (39.5 | ) | | (41.1 | ) |
Estimated benefits paid by incurred subsidy | — |
| | — |
| | 0.5 |
| | 0.6 |
|
Projected benefit obligation at end of year | $ | 2,130.5 |
| | $ | 1,981.3 |
| | $ | 576.5 |
| | $ | 492.5 |
|
Change in plan assets | | | | | | | |
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year | $ | 1,867.7 |
| | $ | 2,160.0 |
| | $ | 216.3 |
| | $ | 262.5 |
|
Actual (loss) return on plan assets | 366.8 |
| | (88.4 | ) | | 56.9 |
| | (31.8 | ) |
Employer contributions | 2.9 |
| | 2.9 |
| | 23.0 |
| | 21.0 |
|
Plan participants’ contributions | — |
| | — |
| | 4.7 |
| | 5.7 |
|
Benefits paid | (156.5 | ) | | (206.8 | ) | | (39.5 | ) | | (41.1 | ) |
Fair value of plan assets at end of year | $ | 2,080.9 |
| | $ | 1,867.7 |
| | $ | 261.4 |
| | $ | 216.3 |
|
Funded Status at end of year | $ | (49.6 | ) | | $ | (113.6 | ) | | $ | (315.1 | ) |
| $ | (276.2 | ) |
Amounts recognized in the statement of financial position consist of: | | | | | | | |
Noncurrent assets | 8.2 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Current liabilities | (3.0 | ) | | (3.0 | ) | | (0.8 | ) | | (0.8 | ) |
Noncurrent liabilities | (54.8 | ) | | (110.6 | ) | | (314.3 | ) | | (275.4 | ) |
Net amount recognized at end of year(2) | $ | (49.6 | ) | | $ | (113.6 | ) | | $ | (315.1 | ) | | $ | (276.2 | ) |
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income or regulatory asset/liability(3) | | | | | | | |
Unrecognized prior service credit | $ | 3.0 |
| | $ | 3.2 |
| | $ | (10.7 | ) | | $ | (19.0 | ) |
Unrecognized actuarial loss | 652.8 |
| | 761.2 |
| | 118.4 |
| | 75.3 |
|
Net amount recognized at end of year | $ | 655.8 |
| | $ | 764.4 |
| | $ | 107.7 |
| | $ | 56.3 |
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Pension Benefits | | Other Postretirement Benefits |
(in millions) | 2022 | | 2021 | | 2022 | | 2021 |
Change in projected benefit obligation(1) | | | | | | | |
Benefit obligation at beginning of year | $ | 1,852.4 | | | $ | 2,058.4 | | | $ | 556.2 | | | $ | 590.8 | |
Service cost | 27.8 | | | 30.2 | | | 6.5 | | | 6.2 | |
Interest cost | 40.5 | | | 31.4 | | | 12.0 | | | 9.9 | |
Plan participants’ contributions | — | | | — | | | 4.1 | | | 4.2 | |
Plan amendments | 0.2 | | | — | | | 2.1 | | | 0.1 | |
Actuarial gain(2) | (318.7) | | | (68.7) | | | (89.9) | | | (14.8) | |
| | | | | | | |
Benefits paid | (174.8) | | | (198.9) | | | (42.3) | | | (40.6) | |
Estimated benefits paid by incurred subsidy | — | | | — | | | 0.3 | | | 0.4 | |
| | | | | | | |
Projected benefit obligation at end of year | $ | 1,427.4 | | | $ | 1,852.4 | | | $ | 449.0 | | | $ | 556.2 | |
Change in plan assets | | | | | | | |
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year | $ | 1,981.7 | | | $ | 2,117.7 | | | $ | 293.7 | | | $ | 286.4 | |
Actual return on plan assets | (386.8) | | | 58.9 | | | (51.9) | | | 23.9 | |
Employer contributions | 2.7 | | | 4.0 | | | 21.3 | | | 19.8 | |
Plan participants’ contributions | — | | | — | | | 4.1 | | | 4.2 | |
Benefits paid | (174.8) | | | (198.9) | | | (42.3) | | | (40.6) | |
| | | | | | | |
Fair value of plan assets at end of year | $ | 1,422.8 | | | $ | 1,981.7 | | | $ | 224.9 | | | $ | 293.7 | |
Funded Status at end of year | $ | (4.6) | | | $ | 129.3 | | | $ | (224.1) | | | $ | (262.5) | |
Amounts recognized in the statement of financial position consist of: | | | | | | | |
Noncurrent assets | 18.3 | | | 159.3 | | | — | | | — | |
Current liabilities | (2.6) | | | (2.8) | | | (1.0) | | | (1.0) | |
Noncurrent liabilities | (20.3) | | | (27.2) | | | (223.1) | | | (261.5) | |
Net amount recognized at end of year(3) | $ | (4.6) | | | $ | 129.3 | | | $ | (224.1) | | | $ | (262.5) | |
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income or regulatory asset/liability(4) | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
Unrecognized prior service credit | $ | 0.4 | | | $ | 0.3 | | | $ | (3.4) | | | $ | (7.8) | |
Unrecognized actuarial loss | 564.2 | | | 438.0 | | | 64.0 | | | 88.5 | |
Net amount recognized at end of year | $ | 564.6 | | | $ | 438.3 | | | $ | 60.6 | | | $ | 80.7 | |
(1)The change in benefit obligation for Pension Benefits represents the change in Projected Benefit Obligation while the change in benefit obligation for Other Postretirement Benefits represents the change in accumulated postretirement benefit obligation.
(2)The pension actuarial gain was primarily driven by the increase in discount rate. The postretirement benefit gain was also primarily driven by an increase in discount rates.
(3)We recognize our Consolidated Balance Sheets underfunded and overfunded status of our various defined benefit postretirement plans, measured as the difference between the fair value of the plan assets and the benefit obligation.
(3)(4)We determined that for certain rate-regulated subsidiaries the future recovery of pension and other postretirement benefits costs is probable. These rate-regulated subsidiaries recorded regulatory assets and liabilities of $739.1$607.5 million and $0.1 million,zero, respectively, as of December 31, 2019,2022, and $798.3$512.1 million and $0.1 million,zero, respectively, as of December 31, 20182021 that would otherwise have been recorded to accumulated other comprehensive loss.
Our accumulated benefit obligation for our pension plans was $2,111.5$1,416.8 million and $1,965.6$1,834.4 million as of December 31, 20192022 and 2018,2021, respectively. The accumulated benefit obligation as of aat each date is the actuarial present value of benefits attributed by the pension benefit formula to employee service rendered prior to that date and based on current and past compensation levels. The accumulated benefit obligation differs from the projected benefit obligation disclosed in the table above in that it includes no assumptions about future compensation levels.
We are required to reflect the funded status of theour pension and postretirement benefit plans on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. The funded status of the plans is measured as the difference between the plan assets' fair value and the projected benefit obligation. We present the noncurrent aggregate of all underfunded plans within "Accrued liability for postretirement and postemployment benefits." The portion of the amount by which the actuarial present value of benefits included in the projected benefit obligation
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
benefit obligation exceeds the fair value of plan assets, payable in the next 12 months, is reflected in "Accrued compensation and other benefits." We present the aggregate of all overfunded plans within "Deferred charges and other."
Information for pension plans with a projected benefit obligation in excess of plan assets:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| December 31, |
| 2022 | | 2021 |
Accumulated Benefit Obligation | $ | 22.9 | | | $ | 30.0 | |
Funded Status | | | |
Projected Benefit Obligation | 22.9 | | | 30.0 | |
| | | |
Funded Status of Underfunded Pension Plans at End of Year(1) | $ | (22.9) | | | $ | (30.0) | |
|
| | | | | | | |
| December 31, |
| 2019 | | 2018 |
Accumulated Benefit Obligation | $ | 1,473.9 |
| | $ | 1,965.6 |
|
Funded Status | | | |
Projected Benefit Obligation | 1,492.9 |
| | 1,981.3 |
|
Fair Value of Plan Assets | 1,435.1 |
| | 1,867.7 |
|
Funded Status of Underfunded Pension Plans at End of Year | $ | (57.8 | ) | | $ | (113.6 | ) |
(1)As of December 31, 2022 and 2021, only our nonqualified plans were underfunded. These plans have no assets as they are not funded until benefits are paid.Information for pension plans with plan assets in excess of the projected benefit obligation:
|
| | | | | | | |
| December 31, |
| 2019 | | 2018 |
Accumulated Benefit Obligation | $ | 637.6 |
| | $ | — |
|
Funded Status | | | |
Projected Benefit Obligation | 637.6 |
| | — |
|
Fair Value of Plan Assets | 645.8 |
| | — |
|
Funded Status of Overfunded Pension Plans at End of Year | $ | 8.2 |
| | $ | — |
|
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| December 31, |
| 2022 | | 2021 |
Accumulated Benefit Obligation | $ | 1,393.8 | | | $ | 1,804.3 | |
Funded Status | | | |
Projected Benefit Obligation | 1,404.5 | | | 1,822.4 | |
Fair Value of Plan Assets | 1,422.8 | | | 1,981.7 | |
Funded Status of Overfunded Pension Plans at End of Year | $ | 18.3 | | | $ | 159.3 | |
Our pension plans were underfunded, in aggregate, by $49.6$4.6 million at December 31, 20192022 compared to being underfundedoverfunded by $113.6$129.3 million at December 31, 2018.2021. The improvementdecline in the funded status was primarily due primarily to favorableunfavorable asset returns offset by a decreasean increase in discount rates. We contributed $2.9$2.7 million and $4.0 million to our pension plans in both 20192022 and 2018.2021, respectively.
Our other postretirement benefit plans were underfunded by $315.1$224.1 million at December 31, 20192022 compared to being underfunded by $276.2$262.5 million at December 31, 2018.2021. The declineimprovement in funded status was primarily due to a decrease inincreased discount rates offset by favorableunfavorable asset returns. We contributed $23.0$21.3 million and $21.0$19.8 million to our other postretirement benefit plans in 20192022 and 2018,2021, respectively.
No amounts of our pension or other postretirement benefit plans’ assets are expected to be returned to us or any of our subsidiaries in 2019.
In 20192022 and 2018,2021, some of our qualified pension plans paid lump sum payouts in excess of the respective plan's service cost plus interest cost, thereby meeting the requirement for settlement accounting. We recorded settlement charges of $9.5$12.4 million and $18.5$11.4 million in 20192022 and 2018,2021, respectively. Net periodic pension benefit cost for 2019 was decreasedincreased by $0.7$5.7 million and $4.0 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively, as athe result of the interim remeasurement.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
The following table provides the key assumptions that were used to calculate the pension and other postretirement benefits obligations for our various plans as of December 31:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Pension Benefits | | Other Postretirement Benefits |
| 2019 | | 2018 | | 2019 | | 2018 |
Weighted-average assumptions to Determine Benefit Obligation | | | | | | | |
Discount Rate | 3.12 | % | | 4.26 | % | | 3.21 | % | | 4.31 | % |
Rate of Compensation Increases | 4.00 | % | | 4.00 | % | | — |
| | — |
|
Health Care Trend Rates | | | | | | | |
Trend for Next Year | — |
| | — |
| | 6.68 | % | | 8.48 | % |
Ultimate Trend | — |
| | — |
| | 4.50 | % | | 4.50 | % |
Year Ultimate Trend Reached | — |
| | — |
| | 2028 |
| | 2026 |
|
Assumed health care cost trend rates have a significant effect on the amounts reported for the health care plans. A one-percentage-point change in assumed health care cost trend rates would have the following effects:
|
| | | | | | | |
(in millions) | 1% point increase | | 1% point decrease |
Effect on service and interest components of net periodic cost | $ | 1.2 |
| | $ | (1.1 | ) |
Effect on accumulated postretirement benefit obligation | 30.1 |
| | (26.3 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Pension Benefits | | Other Postretirement Benefits |
| 2022 | | 2021 | | 2022 | | 2021 |
Weighted-average assumptions to Determine Benefit Obligation | | | | | | | |
Discount Rate | 5.14 | % | | 2.76 | % | | 5.17 | % | | 2.85 | % |
Rate of Compensation Increases | 4.00 | % | | 4.00 | % | | N/A | | N/A |
Interest Crediting Rates | 4.00 | % | | 4.00 | % | | N/A | | N/A |
Health Care Trend Rates | | | | | | | |
Trend for Next Year | N/A | | N/A | | 6.69 | % | | 6.20 | % |
Ultimate Trend | N/A | | N/A | | 4.75 | % | | 4.50 | % |
Year Ultimate Trend Reached | N/A | | N/A | | 2032 | | 2030 |
We expect to make contributions of approximately $3.0$2.6 million to our pension plans and approximately $24.0$23.7 million to our postretirement medical and life plans in 2020.2023.
The following table provides benefits expected to be paid in each of the next five fiscal years, and in the aggregate for the five fiscal years thereafter. The expected benefits are estimated based on the same assumptions used to measure our benefit obligation at the end of the year and include benefits attributable to the estimated future service of employees:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | |
(in millions) | Pension Benefits | | Other Postretirement Benefits | | Federal Subsidy Receipts |
Year(s) | | | | | |
2020 | $ | 178.8 |
| | $ | 38.1 |
| | $ | 0.5 |
|
2021 | 177.8 |
| | 38.6 |
| | 0.4 |
|
2022 | 175.8 |
| | 38.4 |
| | 0.4 |
|
2023 | 168.5 |
| | 38.1 |
| | 0.4 |
|
2024 | 164.4 |
| | 37.9 |
| | 0.4 |
|
2025-2029 | 723.7 |
| | 181.0 |
| | 1.5 |
|
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(in millions) | Pension Benefits | | Other Postretirement Benefits | | Federal Subsidy Receipts |
Year(s) | | | | | |
2023 | $ | 150.5 | | | $ | 38.9 | | | $ | 0.4 | |
2024 | 145.2 | | | 38.5 | | | 0.2 | |
2025 | 141.2 | | | 37.8 | | | 0.2 | |
2026 | 133.8 | | | 36.9 | | | 0.2 | |
2027 | 128.1 | | | 36.4 | | | 0.2 | |
2028-2032 | 563.2 | | | 172.0 | | | 0.9 | |
The following table provides the components of the plans’ actuarially determined net periodic benefits cost for each of the three years ended December 31, 2019, 20182022, 2021 and 2017:2020:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Pension Benefits | | Other Postretirement Benefits |
(in millions) | 2019 | | 2018 | | 2017 | | 2019 | | 2018 | | 2017 |
Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost(1) | | | | | | | | | | | |
Service cost | $ | 29.2 |
| | $ | 31.3 |
| | $ | 30.0 |
| | $ | 5.1 |
| | $ | 5.0 |
| | $ | 4.8 |
|
Interest cost | 72.3 |
| | 67.1 |
| | 68.3 |
| | 19.2 |
| | 17.6 |
| | 17.8 |
|
Expected return on assets | (108.8 | ) | | (142.3 | ) | | (123.1 | ) | | (13.1 | ) | | (14.9 | ) | | (15.9 | ) |
Amortization of prior service cost (credit) | 0.2 |
| | (0.4 | ) | | (0.7 | ) | | (3.2 | ) | | (4.0 | ) | | (4.4 | ) |
Recognized actuarial loss | 45.2 |
| | 40.6 |
| | 52.9 |
| | 2.0 |
| | 3.8 |
| | 3.0 |
|
Settlement loss | 9.5 |
| | 18.5 |
| | 13.7 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Total Net Periodic Benefits Cost | $ | 47.6 |
| | $ | 14.8 |
| | $ | 41.1 |
| | $ | 10.0 |
| | $ | 7.5 |
| | $ | 5.3 |
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Pension Benefits | | Other Postretirement Benefits |
(in millions) | 2022 | | 2021 | | 2020 | | 2022 | | 2021 | | 2020 |
Components of Net Periodic Benefit (Income) Cost(1) | | | | | | | | | | | |
Service cost | $ | 27.8 | | | $ | 30.2 | | | $ | 32.0 | | | $ | 6.5 | | | $ | 6.2 | | | $ | 6.6 | |
Interest cost | 40.5 | | | 31.4 | | | 51.6 | | | 12.0 | | | 9.9 | | | 15.4 | |
Expected return on assets | (90.8) | | | (101.6) | | | (111.6) | | | (16.2) | | | (15.3) | | | (14.4) | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Amortization of prior service cost (credit) | 0.1 | | | 0.1 | | | 0.7 | | | (2.2) | | | (2.2) | | | (2.1) | |
Recognized actuarial loss | 20.3 | | | 21.7 | | | 33.8 | | | 2.6 | | | 4.6 | | | 4.9 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Settlement/curtailment loss | 12.4 | | | 11.4 | | | 10.5 | | | — | | | — | | | 1.5 | |
Total Net Periodic Benefits (Income) Cost | $ | 10.3 | | | $ | (6.8) | | | $ | 17.0 | | | $ | 2.7 | | | $ | 3.2 | | | $ | 11.9 | |
(1)Service cost is presented in "Operation and maintenance" on the Statements of Consolidated Income (Loss). Non-service cost components are presented within "Other, net."
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
The following table provides the key assumptions that were used to calculate the net periodic benefits cost for our various plans:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Pension Benefits | | Other Postretirement Benefits |
| 2022 | | 2021 | | 2020 | | 2022 | | 2021 | | 2020 |
Weighted-average Assumptions to Determine Net Periodic Benefit Cost | | | | | | | | | | | |
Discount rate - service cost | 3.08 | % | | 2.81 | % | | 3.39 | % | | 3.21 | % | | 3.00 | % | | 3.52 | % |
Discount rate - interest cost | 2.11 | % | | 1.57 | % | | 2.65 | % | | 2.24 | % | | 1.73 | % | | 2.76 | % |
Expected Long-Term Rate of Return on Plan Assets | 4.80 | % | | 5.20 | % | | 5.70 | % | | 5.72 | % | | 5.50 | % | | 5.67 | % |
Rate of Compensation Increases | 4.00 | % | | 4.00 | % | | 4.00 | % | | N/A | | N/A | | N/A |
Interest Crediting Rates | 4.00 | % | | 4.00 | % | | 4.00 | % | | N/A | | N/A | | N/A |
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Pension Benefits | | Other Postretirement Benefits |
| 2019 | | 2018 | | 2017 | | 2019 | | 2018 | | 2017 |
Weighted-average Assumptions to Determine Net Periodic Benefit Cost | | | | | | | | | | | |
Discount rate - service cost(1) | 4.48 | % | | 3.79 | % | | 4.40 | % | | 4.59 | % | | 3.89 | % | | 4.58 | % |
Discount rate - interest cost(1) | 3.84 | % | | 3.15 | % | | 3.31 | % | | 3.94 | % | | 3.27 | % | | 3.48 | % |
Expected Long-Term Rate of Return on Plan Assets | 6.10 | % | | 7.00 | % | | 7.25 | % | | 5.83 | % | | 5.80 | % | | 6.99 | % |
Rate of Compensation Increases | 4.00 | % | | 4.00 | % | | 4.00 | % | | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
(1) In January 2017, we changed the method used to estimate the serviceWe assumed a 4.80% and interest components of net periodic benefit cost for pension and other postretirement benefits. This change, compared to the previous method, resulted in a decrease in the actuarially-determined service and interest cost components. Historically, we estimated service and interest cost utilizing a single weighted-average discount rate derived from the yield curve used to measure the benefit obligation at the beginning of the period. For fiscal 2017 and beyond, we now utilize a full yield curve approach to estimate these components by applying the specific spot rates along the yield curve used in the determination of the benefit obligation to the relevant projected cash flows.We believe it is appropriate to assume a 6.10% and 5.83%5.72% rate of return on pension and other postretirement plan assets, respectively, for our calculation of 20192022 pension benefits cost.and other postretirement benefits costs. These rates arewere primarily based on asset mix and historical rates of return and were adjusted in the current year2022 due to anticipated changes in asset allocation and projected market returns.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
The following table provides other changes in plan assets and projected benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive income or regulatory asset or liability:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Pension Benefits | | Other Postretirement Benefits |
(in millions) | 2019 | | 2018 | | 2019 | | 2018 |
Other Changes in Plan Assets and Projected Benefit Obligations Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income or Regulatory Asset or Liability | | | | | | | |
Net prior service cost | $ | — |
| | $ | 0.2 |
| | $ | 5.1 |
| | $ | 0.1 |
|
Net actuarial loss (gain) | (53.8 | ) | | 127.5 |
| | 45.1 |
| | (5.0 | ) |
Settlements | (9.5 | ) | | (18.5 | ) | | — |
| | — |
|
Less: amortization of prior service cost | (0.2 | ) | | 0.4 |
| | 3.2 |
| | 4.0 |
|
Less: amortization of net actuarial loss | (45.2 | ) | | (40.6 | ) | | (2.0 | ) | | (3.8 | ) |
Total Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income or Regulatory Asset or Liability | $ | (108.7 | ) | | $ | 69.0 |
| | $ | 51.4 |
| | $ | (4.7 | ) |
Amount Recognized in Net Periodic Benefits Cost and Other Comprehensive Income or Regulatory Asset or Liability | $ | (61.1 | ) | | $ | 83.8 |
| | $ | 61.4 |
| | $ | 2.8 |
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Pension Benefits | | Other Postretirement Benefits |
(in millions) | 2022 | | 2021 | | 2022 | | 2021 |
Other Changes in Plan Assets and Projected Benefit Obligations Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income or Regulatory Asset or Liability | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
Net prior service cost | $ | 0.2 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 2.1 | | | $ | 0.1 | |
Net actuarial loss (gain) | 158.9 | | | (26.0) | | | (21.8) | | | (23.3) | |
Settlements/curtailments | (12.4) | | | (11.4) | | | — | | | — | |
Less: amortization of prior service cost | (0.1) | | | (0.1) | | | 2.2 | | | 2.2 | |
Less: amortization of net actuarial loss | (20.3) | | | (21.7) | | | (2.6) | | | (4.6) | |
Total Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income or Regulatory Asset or Liability | $ | 126.3 | | | $ | (59.2) | | | $ | (20.1) | | | $ | (25.6) | |
Amount Recognized in Net Periodic Benefits Cost and Other Comprehensive Income or Regulatory Asset or Liability | $ | 136.6 | | | $ | (66.0) | | | $ | (17.4) | | | $ | (22.4) | |
Based on a December 31 measurement date, the estimated net unrecognized actuarial loss, unrecognized prior service cost, and unrecognized transition obligation that will be amortized into net periodic benefit cost during 2020 for the pension plans are $34.7 million, $0.8 million and 0, respectively, and for other postretirement benefit plans are $4.9 million, $(1.8) million and 0, respectively.
12.13. Equity
We raise equity financing through a variety of programs including traditional common equity issuances and preferred stock issuances. As of December 31, 2019, we had 600,000,000 shares of common stock and 20,000,000 shares of preferred stock authorized for issuance, of which 382,135,680 shares of common stock and 440,000 shares of preferred stock are currently outstanding.
Holders of shares of our common stock are entitled to receive dividends when, as, and if declared by the Board out of funds legally available. The policy of the Board has been to declare cash dividends on a quarterly basis payable on or about the 20th day of February, May, August and November. We have paid quarterly common dividends totaling $0.80, $0.78, and $0.70 per share for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively. Our Board declared a quarterly common dividend of $0.21 per share, payable on February 20, 2020 to holders of record on February 11, 2020. We have certain debt covenants whichthat could potentially limit the amount of dividends the Companywe could pay in order to maintain compliance with these covenants. Refer to Note 14,15, "Long-Term Debt," for more information. As of December 31, 2019,2022, these covenants did not restrict the amount of dividends that were available to be paid.
Dividends paid to preferred shareholders vary based on the series of preferred stock owned. Additional information is provided below. Holders of our shares of common stock are subject to the prior dividend rights of holders of our preferred stock or the depositary shares representing such preferred stock outstanding, and if full dividends have not been declared and paid on all outstanding shares of preferred stock in any dividend period, no dividend may be declared or paid or set aside for payment on our common stock.
Common and preferred stock activity for 2019, 20182022, 2021 and 20172020 is described further below:below.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
ATM Program and Forward Sale Agreements.Program. On May 3, 2017,November 1, 2018, we entered into 4five separate equity distribution agreements pursuant to which we were able to sell up to an aggregate of $500.0 million of our common stock.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
On November 13, 2017, under the ATM program, we executed a forward agreement, which allowed us to issue a fixed number of shares at a price to be settled in the future. On November 6, 2018, the forward agreement was settled for $26.43 per share, resulting in $167.7 million of net proceeds. The equity distribution agreements entered into on May 3, 2017 expired December 31, 2018.
On November 1, 2018, we entered into 5 separate equity distribution agreements pursuant to which we were able to sell up to an aggregate of $500.0 million of our common stock. NaN Four of these agreements were then amended on August 1, 2019 and one was terminated, pursuant to which we maywere able to sell from time to time, up to an aggregate of $434.4 million of our common stock. These equity distribution agreements impacting fiscal year 2020 expired on December 31, 2020.
On December 6, 2018,February 22, 2021, we entered into six separate equity distribution agreements pursuant to which we are able to sell up to an aggregate of $750.0 million of our common stock.
On August 9, 2021, under the ATM program, we executed a forward agreement, which allowed us to issue a fixed number of shares at a price to be settled in the future. From December 6, 2018 to December 10, 2018, 4,708,098 shares were borrowed from third parties and sold by the dealer at a weighted average price of $26.55 per share. On November 21, 2019, the forward agreement was settled for $26.01 per share, resulting in $122.5 million of net proceeds.
On August 12, 2019, under the ATM program, we executed a separate forwardsale agreement, which allowed us to issue a fixed number of shares at a price to be settled in the future. From August 12, 20199, 2021 to September 13, 2019, 3,714,4001, 2021, the forward purchaser under our forward sale agreement borrowed 5,941,598 shares were borrowed from third parties, andwhich the forward purchaser sold, by the dealerthrough its affiliated agent, at a weighted average price of $29.26$25.25 per share. On December 11, 2019,November 16, 2022, the forward sale agreement was settled for $28.83$23.90 per share, resulting in $107.1$142.0 million of net proceeds.
As of December 31, 2019,2022, the ATM program had approximately $200.7$300.0 million of equity available for issuance. The program expires on December 31, 2020.2023.
The following table summarizes our activity under the ATM program:program.
|
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Year Ending December 31, | 2019 | | 2018 | | 2017 |
Number of shares issued | 8,422,498 |
| | 8,883,014 |
| | 11,931,376 |
|
Average price per share | $ | 27.75 |
| | $ | 26.85 |
| | $ | 26.58 |
|
Proceeds, net of fees (in millions) | $ | 229.1 |
| | $ | 232.5 |
| | $ | 314.7 |
|
Private Placement of Common Stock. On May 4, 2018, we completed the sale of 24,964,163 shares of $0.01 par value common stock at a price of $24.28 per share in a private placement to selected institutional and accredited investors. The private placement resulted in $606.0 million of gross proceeds or $599.6 million of net proceeds, after deducting commissions and sale expenses. The common stock issued in connection with the private placement was registered on Form S-1, filed with the SEC on May 11, 2018. | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Year Ending December 31, | 2022 | | 2021 | | 2020 |
Number of shares issued | 5,941,598 | | | 12,525,215 | | | 8,459,430 | |
Average price per share | $ | 25.25 | | | $ | 23.95 | | | $ | 23.60 | |
Proceeds, net of fees (in millions) | $ | 141.9 | | | $ | 288.1 | | | $ | 196.5 | |
Preferred Stock. On June 11, 2018, we completed the sale of 400,000 shares of 5.650% Series A Fixed-Rate Reset Cumulative Redeemable Perpetual Preferred Stock (the "Series A Preferred Stock") at a price of $1,000 per share. The transaction resulted in $400.0 million of gross proceeds or $393.9 million of net proceeds, after deducting commissions and sale expenses. The Series A Preferred Stock was issued in a private placement pursuant to SEC Rule 144A. On December 13, 2018, we filed a registration statement with the SEC enabling holders to exchange their unregistered shares of Series A Preferred Stock for publicly registered shares with substantially identical terms.
Proceeds from the issuance of the Series A Preferred Stock were used to pay a portion of the notes tendered in June 2018 and the redemption of the remaining notes in July 2018. See Note 14, “Long-term Debt” for additional information regarding the tender offer and redemption.
Dividends on the Series A Preferred Stock accrue and are cumulative from the date the shares of Series A Preferred Stock were originally issued to, but not including, June 15, 2023 at a rate of 5.650% per annum of the $1,000 liquidation preference per share. On and after June 15, 2023, dividends on the Series A Preferred Stock will accumulate for each five year period at a percentage of the $1,000 liquidation preference equal to the five-year U.S. Treasury Rate plus (i) in respect of each five year period commencing on or after June 15, 2023 but before June 15, 2043, a spread of 2.843% (the “Initial Margin”), and (ii) in respect of each five year period commencing on or after June 15, 2043, the Initial Margin plus 1.000%. The Series A Preferred Stock may be redeemed by us at our option on June 15, 2023, or on each date falling on the fifth anniversary thereafter, or in connection with a ratings event (as defined in the Certificate of Designation of the Series A Preferred Stock).
As of December 31, 20192022 and 2018,2021, Series A Preferred Stock had $1.0 million of cumulative preferred dividends in arrears, or $2.51 per share.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
Holders of Series A Preferred Stock generally have no voting rights, except for limited voting rights with respect to (i) potential amendments to our certificate of incorporation that would have a material adverse effect on the existing preferences, rights, powers or duties of the Series A Preferred Stock, (ii) the creation or issuance of any security ranking on a parity with the Series A Preferred Stock if the cumulative dividends payable on then outstanding Series A Preferred Stock are in arrears, or (iii) the creation or issuance of any security ranking senior to the Series A Preferred Stock. The Series A Preferred Stock does not have a stated maturity and is not subject to mandatory redemption or any sinking fund. The Series A Preferred Stock will remain outstanding indefinitely unless repurchased or redeemed by us. Any such redemption would be effected only out of funds legally available for such purposes and will be subject to compliance with the provisions of our outstanding indebtedness.
On December 5, 2018, we completed the sale of 20,000,000 depositary shares with an aggregate liquidation preference of $500,000,000 under the Company’s registration statement on Form S-3. Each depositary share represents 1/1,000th ownership interest in a share of our 6.500% Series B Fixed-Rate Reset Cumulative Redeemable Perpetual Preferred Stock, liquidation preference $25,000 per share (equivalent to $25 per depositary share) (the “Series B Preferred Stock"). The transaction resulted in $500.0 million of gross proceeds or $486.1 million of net proceeds, after deducting commissions and sale expenses.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
Dividends on the Series B Preferred Stock accrue and are cumulative from the date the shares of Series B Preferred Stock were originally issued to, but not including, March 15, 2024 at a rate of 6.500% per annum of the $25,000 liquidation preference per share. On and after March 15, 2024, dividends on the Series B Preferred Stock will accumulate for each five year period at a percentage of the $25,000 liquidation preference equal to the five-year U.S. Treasury Rate plus (i) in respect of each five year period commencing on or after March 15, 2024 but before March 15, 2044, a spread of 3.632% (the “Initial Margin”), and (ii) in respect of each five year period commencing on or after March 15, 2044, the Initial Margin plus 1.000%. The Series B Preferred Stock may be redeemed by us at our option on March 15, 2024, or on each date falling on the fifth anniversary thereafter, or in connection with a ratings event (as defined in the Certificate of Designation of the Series B Preferred Stock).
As of December 31, 20192022 and 2018,2021, Series B Preferred Stock had $1.4 million and $2.4 million, respectively, of cumulative preferred dividends in arrears, or $72.23 and $121.88 per share, respectively.share.
In addition, we issued 20,000 shares of “Series B-1Series B–1 Preferred Stock”,Stock, par value $0.01 per share, (“Series B-1 Preferred Stock”),were outstanding as a distribution with respect to the Series B Preferred Stock. As a result, each of the depositary shares issued on December 5, 2018 now represents a 1/1,000th ownership interest in a share31, 2022. Holders of Series BB–1 Preferred Stock are not entitled to receive dividend payments and a 1/1,000th ownership interest in a share of Series B-1 Preferred Stock. We issued the Series B-1 Preferred Stock to enhance the voting rights of the Series B Preferred Stock to comply with the minimum voting rights policy of the New York Stock Exchange.have no conversion rights. The Series B-1B–1 Preferred Stock is paired with the Series B Preferred Stock and may not be transferred, redeemed or repurchased except in connection with the simultaneous transfer, redemption or repurchase of a like number of shares of the underlying Series B Preferred Stock.
Holders of Series B Preferred Stock generally have no voting rights, except for limited voting rights with respect to (i) potential amendments to our certificate of incorporation that would have a material adverse effect on the existing preferences, rights, powers or duties of the Series B Preferred Stock, (ii) the creation or issuance of any security ranking on a parity with the Series B Preferred Stock if the cumulative dividends payable on then outstanding Series B Preferred Stock are in arrears, or (iii) the creation or issuance of any security ranking senior to the Series B Preferred Stock. In addition, if and whenever dividends on any shares of Series B Preferred Stock shall not have been declared and paid for at least six dividend periods, whether or not consecutive, the number of directors then constituting our Board of Directors shall automatically be increased by two until all accumulated and unpaid dividends on the Series B Preferred Stock shall have been paid in full, and the holders of Series B-1 Preferred Stock, voting as a class together with the holders of any outstanding securities ranking on a parity with the Series B-1 Preferred Stock and having like voting rights that are exercisable at the time and entitled to vote thereon, shall be entitled to elect the two additional directors. The Series B Preferred Stock does not have a stated maturity and is not subject to mandatory redemption or any sinking fund. The Series B Preferred Stock will remain outstanding indefinitely unless repurchased or redeemed by us. Any such redemption would be effected only out of funds legally available for such purposes and will be subject to compliance with the provisions of our outstanding indebtedness.
The following table summarizes preferred stock by outstanding series of shares:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Year ended December 31, | December 31, | | December 31, |
| | | 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | 2022 | | 2021 |
(in millions except shares and per share amounts) | Liquidation Preference Per Share | Shares | Dividends Declared Per Share | Outstanding |
5.650% Series A | $ | 1,000.00 | | 400,000 | | $ | 56.50 | | $ | 56.50 | | $ | 56.50 | | $ | 393.9 | | | $ | 393.9 | |
6.500% Series B | 25,000.00 | | 20,000 | | 1,625.00 | | 1,625.00 | | 1,625.00 | | 486.1 | | | 486.1 | |
Series C(1) | $ | 1,000.00 | | 862,500 | | — | | — | | — | | $ | 666.5 | | | $ | 666.5 | |
(1) The Series C Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock initially will not bear any dividends. We recorded the initial present value of the purchase contract payments as a liability with a corresponding reduction to preferred stock.
Equity Units. On April 19, 2021, we completed the sale of 8.625 million Equity Units, initially consisting of Corporate Units, each with a stated amount of $100. The offering generated net proceeds of $835.5 million, after underwriting and issuance expenses. Each Corporate Unit consists of a forward contract to purchase shares of our common stock in the future and a 1/10th, or 10%, undivided beneficial ownership interest in one share of Series C Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock, par value $0.01 per share, with a liquidation preference of $1,000 per share.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
Selected information about the Equity Units is presented below:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(in millions except contract rate) | Issuance Date | Units Issued | Total Net Proceeds(1) | Purchase Contract Annual Rate | Purchase Contract Liability |
Equity Units | April 19, 2021 | 8.625 | $ | 835.5 | | 7.75 | % | $ | 168.8 | |
(1)Issuance costs of $27.0 million were recorded on a relative fair value basis as a reduction to preferred stock of $22.5 million and a reduction to the purchase contract liability of $4.5 million.
The purchase contract obligates holders to purchase shares of our common stock on December 1, 2023, subject to early settlement in certain situations.The purchase price paid under the purchase contract is $100 and the number of shares to be purchased will be determined under a settlement rate formula based on the volume-weighted average share price of our common stock near the settlement date, subject to a maximum settlement rate. The Series C Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock will initially be pledged upon issuance as collateral to secure the purchase of common stock under the related purchase contracts.
The following table summarizesSeries C Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock is expected to be remarketed prior to December 1, 2023, and each share, unless previously converted, will automatically convert to common stock based on a conversion rate on the mandatory conversion date, which is expected to be on or about March 1, 2024. The conversion rate will be determined based on the volume-weighted average share price of our common stock near the conversion date, subject to a minimum and maximum conversion rate. Prior to December 1, 2023, the Series C Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock will not bear any dividends and the liquidation preference will not accrete. Following a successful remarketing, dividends may become payable on the Series C Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock and/or the minimum conversion rate of the Series C Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock may be increased. If no successful remarketing of the Series C Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock has previously occurred, effective as of December 1, 2023, the conversion rate will be zero, no shares of our common stock will be delivered upon automatic conversion and each share of Series C Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock will be automatically transferred to us on the mandatory conversion date without any payment of cash or shares of our common stock thereon. In the event of such a remarketing failure, any shares of Series C Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock held as part of Corporate Units will be automatically delivered to us on December 1, 2023 in full satisfaction of the relevant holder's obligation under the related purchase contracts.
We will pay quarterly contract adjustment payments at the rate of 7.75% per year on the stated amount of $100 per Equity Unit. The contract adjustment payments are payable in cash, shares of our common stock or a combination thereof, at our election. The payment of contract adjustment payments may also be deferred until the purchase contract settlement date, December 1, 2023, at our election. If we exercise our option to defer the payment of contract adjustment payments, then until the deferred contract adjustment payments have been paid, we will not declare or pay any dividends on, or make any distributions on, or redeem, purchase or acquire, or make a liquidation payment with respect to, any shares of our capital stock; make any payment of principal of, or interest or premium, if any, on, or repay, repurchase or redeem any of our debt securities that rank on parity with, or junior to, the contract adjustment payments; or make any guarantee payments under any guarantee by us of securities of any of our subsidiaries if our guarantee ranks on parity with, or junior to, the contract adjustment payments. As of December 31, 2022, no contract adjustment payments have been deferred with quarterly cash payments being remitted to the holders. As of December 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021 the purchase contract liability was $65.0 million and $129.4 million, respectively. Purchase contract payments are recorded against this liability. Accretion of the purchase contract liability is recorded as interest expense. Cash payments of $66.8 million and $41.2 million were made during the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
The Series C Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock and forward purchase contracts are legally detachable and separately exercisable, however, due to the economic linkage between the forward purchase contract and the Series C Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock, we have concluded that the ability to separate the Corporate Units is non-substantive. Accordingly, we are accounting for the Corporate Units as a single unit of account. We recorded the initial present value of the purchase contract payments as a liability with a corresponding reduction to preferred stock. This liability is included in "Other accruals"go on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Refer to Note 5, "Earnings Per Share," for additional information regarding our treatment of the Equity Units for diluted EPS. Under the terms of the Equity Units, assuming no anti-dilution or other adjustments such as a fundamental change, the maximum number of shares of common stock by outstanding series of shares:we will issue under the purchase contracts is 35.2 million and maximum number
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | Year ended December 31, | December 31, | | December 31, |
| | | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | 2019 | | 2018 |
(in millions except shares and per share amounts) | Liquidation Preference Per Share | Shares | Dividends Declared Per Share | Outstanding |
5.650% Series A | $ | 1,000.00 |
| 400,000 |
| $ | 56.50 |
| $ | 28.88 |
| $ | — |
| $ | 393.9 |
| | $ | 393.9 |
|
6.500% Series B | $ | 25,000.00 |
| 20,000 |
| $ | 1,674.65 |
| $ | — |
| $ | — |
| $ | 486.1 |
| | $ | 486.1 |
|
98
13.Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
of shares of common stock we will issue under the Series C Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock is 35.2 million. Had we settled the remaining purchase contract payment balance in shares at December 31, 2022, we would have issued approximately 2.5 million shares.
Noncontrolling Interest in Consolidated Subsidiaries. As of December 31, 2022 and 2021, NIPSCO and tax equity partners have completed their cash contributions into the Indiana Crossroads Wind and Rosewater JVs and made initial cash contributions into the Indiana Crossroads Solar JV. Earnings, tax attributes and cash flows are allocated to both NIPSCO and the respective tax equity partners in varying percentages by category and over the life of the partnership. The tax equity partner's contributions, net of these allocations, is represented as a noncontrolling interest within total equity on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Refer to Note 4, "Variable Interest Entities," for more information.
14. Share-Based Compensation
Our stockholders most recently approvedPrior to May 19, 2020, we issued share-based compensation to employees and non-employee directors under the NiSource Inc. 2010 Omnibus Incentive Plan (“("2010 Omnibus Plan”Plan"), which was most recently approved by stockholders at the Annual Meeting of Stockholders held on May 12, 2015. The 2010 Omnibus Plan provided for awards to employees and non-employee directors of incentive and nonqualified stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units, performance shares, performance units, cash-based awards and other stock-based awards and superseded the Director Stock Incentive Plan (“Director Plan”) with respect to grants made after the effective date of the 2010 Omnibus Plan.
The stockholders approved and adopted the NiSource Inc. 2020 Omnibus Incentive Plan ("2020 Omnibus Plan") at the Annual Meeting of Stockholders held on May 19, 2020. The 2020 Omnibus Plan provides for awards to employees and non-employee directors of incentive and nonqualified stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units, performance shares, performance units, cash-based awards and other stock-based awards and supersedes the long-term incentive plan approved by stockholders on April 13, 1994 (“1994 Plan”) and2010 Omnibus Plan with respect to grants made after the Director Stock Incentive Plan (“Director Plan”). effective date of the 2020 Omnibus Plan.
The 2020 Omnibus Plan provides that the number of shares of common stock of NiSource available for awards is 8,000,00010,000,000 plus the number of shares subject to outstanding awards that expire or terminate for any reason that were granted under either the 19942020 Omnibus Plan, the 2010 Omnibus Plan or the Director Plan, plus the numberany other equity plan under which awards were outstanding as of shares that were awarded as a result of the Separation-related adjustments.May 19, 2020. At December 31, 2019,2022, there were 3,313,1838,704,201 shares reservedavailable for future awards under the 2020 Omnibus Plan.
We recognized stock-based employee compensation expense of $16.3$19.0 million, $15.2$16.7 million and $15.3$13.5 million, during 2019, 20182022, 2021 and 2017,2020, respectively, as well as related tax benefits of $3.6 million, $4.0 million $3.7 million and $5.9$3.3 million, respectively. We recognized related excess tax benefitsbenefit from the distribution of vested share-based employee compensation of $0.8 million, $1.0 million and $4.4$0.4 million in 2019, 20182022 and 2017, respectively.2021, and excess tax expense of $0.4 million in 2020.
As of December 31, 2019,2022, the total remaining unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested awards amounted to $19.5$27.0 million, which will be amortized over the weighted-average remaining requisite service period of 1.8 years.
Restricted Stock Units and Restricted Stock. In 2019, weWe granted 166,031477,292, 285,755, and 235,100 restricted stock units and shares of restricted stock to employees, subject to service conditions.conditions in 2022, 2021, and 2020, respectively. The total grant date fair value of the restricted stock units and shares of restricted stock during 2022, 2021, and 2020, respectively, was $4.1$12.5 million, $5.7 million, and $6.1 million based on the average market price of our common stock at the date of each grant less the present value of any dividends not received during the vesting period, which will be expensed over the vesting period which is generally three years. As of December 31, 2019, 157,7862022, 444,646, 218,465, and 135,404 non-vested restricted stock units and shares of restricted stock granted in 20192022, 2021, and 2020, respectively, were outstanding as of December 31, 2019.outstanding.
In 2018, we granted 158,689 restricted stock units and shares of restricted stock to employees, subject to service conditions. The total grant date fair value of the restricted stock units and shares of restricted stock was $3.5 million, based on the average market price of our common stock at the date of each grant less the present value of any dividends not received during the vesting period, which will be expensed over the vesting period which is generally three years. As of December 31, 2019, 136,820 non-vested restricted stock units and shares of restricted stock granted in 2018 were outstanding as of December 31, 2019.
Restricted stock units and shares of restricted stock granted to employees in 2017 were immaterial.
If an employee terminates employment before the service conditions lapse under the 2017, 20182020, 2021 or 20192022 awards due to (1) retirement or disability (as defined in the award agreement), or (2) death, the service conditions will lapse on the date of such termination with respect to a pro rata portion of the restricted stock units and shares of restricted stock based upon the percentage of the service period satisfied between the grant date and the date of the termination of employment. In the event of a change in control (as defined in the award agreement), all unvested shares of restricted stock and restricted stock units awarded will immediately vest upon termination of employment occurring in connection with a change in control. Termination due to any other reason will result in all unvested shares of restricted stock and restricted stock units awarded being forfeited effective on the employee’s date of termination.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
A summary of our restricted stock unit award transactions for the year ended December 31, 2022 is as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
(shares) | Restricted Stock Units | | Weighted Average Award Date Fair Value Per Unit ($) |
Non-vested at December 31, 2021 | 572,154 | | | 22.72 | |
Granted | 477,292 | | | 26.29 | |
Forfeited | (133,367) | | | 23.48 | |
Vested | (117,564) | | | 24.44 | |
Non-vested at December 31, 2022 | 798,515 | | | 24.48 | |
|
| | | | | |
(shares) | Restricted Stock Units | | Weighted Average Award Date Fair Value Per Unit ($) |
Non-vested at December 31, 2018 | 178,678 |
| | 21.82 |
|
Granted | 166,031 |
| | 24.93 |
|
Forfeited | (21,547 | ) | | 22.99 |
|
Vested | (20,556 | ) | | 21.08 |
|
Non-vested at December 31, 2019 | 302,606 |
| | 23.49 |
|
Employee Performance Shares. In 2019, weWe granted 552,389566,086 performance shares subject to service, performance and market conditions.and/or market-based vesting conditions in 2022. The serviceperformance conditions for these awards lapse on February 28, 2022. The performance period for the awards is the period beginning January 1, 2019 and ending December 31, 2021. The performance conditionsshares are based on the achievement of one non-GAAP financial measure, and additional operational measures asand/or achievement of relative total shareholder return, outlined below. The number of shares that are eligible to vest based on these performance conditions will be adjusted based on performance of the magnifier framework for 2022 awards, outlined below. The operational magnifier framework for 2022 performance shares consists of three areas of focus, including safety, environment, and DE&I, representing 20%, 10% and 10%, respectively.
The financial measure is cumulative net operating earnings per share ("NOEPS"), which we define as income from continuing operations adjusted for certain unusual or non-recurring items. The number of cumulative NOEPS shares determined using this measure shall be increased or decreased based on our relativeRelative total shareholder return, a marketmarket-based vesting condition, which we define as the annualized growth in dividends and share price of a share of our common stock (calculated using a 20 trading day average of our closing price beginning on December 31, 2018 and ending on December 31, 2021)over the performance period, approximately) compared to the total shareholder return of a predetermined peer group of companies. A relative shareholder return result within the first quartile will result in an increase toin the NOEPS shares of 25%, while a relative shareholder return result within the fourth quartile will result in a decrease of 25%. A Monte Carlo analysis was used to value the portion of these awards dependent on market conditions.the market-based vesting condition. The grant date fair value of the awards was $11.7 million,NOEPS shares is based on the average marketclosing stock price of our common stock at the date of each grant, less the present value of dividends not received during the vesting period which will be expensed over the requisite service period of three years. AsSee table below for further details on these awards.
In 2021, we granted 973,885 performance shares subject to service, performance and/or market-based vesting conditions. With respect to 390,941 performance shares granted, the performance conditions are based on the achievement of December 31, 2019, 422,825relative total shareholder return. The number of shares that are eligible to vest based on the Company's relative total shareholder return performance will be adjusted based on a performance magnifier related to safety. A Monte Carlo analysis was used to value the portion of these non-vestedawards dependent on the market-based vesting condition. The grant date fair value of the NOEPS shares is based on the closing stock price of our common stock at the date of each grant, which will be expensed over the requisite service period of three years. See table below for further details on these awards.
With respect to the remaining 582,944 performance shares granted in 2019 remained outstanding.2021, the performance conditions are based on the achievement of one non-GAAP financial measure, and/or achievement of relative total shareholder return. The number of shares that are eligible to vest based on these performance conditions will be adjusted based on performance of the magnifier framework for 2021 awards. The operational magnifier framework for 2021 performance shares consists of three areas of focus including safety, environment, and DE&I, representing 20%, 10% and 10%, respectively.
We granted 528,729performance shares subject to service, performance and market-based vesting conditions in 2020. The performance conditions are based on the achievement of one non-GAAP financial measure, relative total shareholder return and additional operational measures as outlined below.
If a threshold level of cumulative NOEPS financial performance is achieved, additional operational measures, which we refer to as the customer value index,framework and which consists of five equally weighted areas of focus, including safety, customer satisfaction, financial, culture and environmental apply. Each area of focus represents 20%an equal portion of the customer value indexframework shares, and the targets for all areas of focus must be met for these awardsthe customer value framework shares to be eligible forvest at 100% payout of these awards.. The grant date fair value of the awards was $2.5 million,customer value framework shares is based on the average market price of our common stock on the grant date of each award less the present value of dividends not received during the vesting period, which will be expensed over the requisite service period of three years. As of December 31, 2019, 97,574 ofyears for those customer value framework shares that are granted. See table below for further details on these awards that were issued in 2019 remained outstanding.awards.
In 2018, we awarded 514,338 performance shares subject to service, performance and market conditions. The service conditions for theseFor the 2020 awards, lapse on February 26, 2021. The performance period for the awards is the period beginning January 1, 2018 and ending December 31, 2020. The performance conditions are based on the achievement of one non-GAAP financial measure and additional operational measures as outlined below.
The financial measure is cumulative net operating earnings per share ("NOEPS"), which we define as income from continuing operations adjusted for certain unusual or non-recurring items. The number of cumulative NOEPS shares determined using this measure shall be increased or decreased based on our relative total shareholder return, a market condition which we define as the annualized growth in dividends and share price of a share of our common stock (calculated using a 20 trading day average of our closing price beginning on December 31, 2017 and ending on December 31, 2020) compared to the total shareholder return of a predetermined peer group of companies. A relative shareholder return result within the first quartile will result in an increase to the NOEPS shares of 25% while a relative shareholder return result within the fourth quartile will result in a decrease of 25%. A Monte Carlo analysis was used to value the portion of these awards dependent on market conditions. The grant date fair value of the awards was $9.2 million, based on the average market price of our common stock at the date of each grant less the present value of dividends not received during the vesting period which will be expensed over the requisite service period of three years. As of December 31, 2019, 368,811 of these non-vested performance shares granted in 2018 remained outstanding.
If a threshold level of cumulative NOEPS financial performance is achieved, additional operational measures which we refer to as the customer value index, whichframework consists of fivefour equally weighted areas of focus including safety, customer satisfaction, financial, culture and environmental, apply. Each area of focus represents 20%each representing 25% of the customer value index shares and the targets for all areas must be met for these awards to be eligible for 100% payout of these awards. Individual payout percentages for these shares may
framework shares.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
range from 0%-200% as determined by the compensation committee in its sole discretion. Due to this discretion, these shares are not considered to be granted under ASC 718. The service inception date fair valuefollowing table presents details of the performance awards was $2.4 million, based on the closing market pricedescribed above.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Award Year | Service Conditions Lapse date | Performance Period | Award Conditions | | Shares outstanding at 12/31/2022 (shares) | Grant Date Fair Value (in millions) |
2022 | 02/28/25 | 01/01/2022- 12/31/2024 | Non-GAAP Financial Measure | | 245,445 | | $ | 7.4 | |
Relative Total Shareholder Return | | 245,445 | | $ | 10.6 | |
2021 | 02/28/24 | 01/01/2021- 12/31/2023 | Non-GAAP Financial Measure | | 192,119 | | $ | 6.5 | |
Relative Total Shareholder Return | | 192,119 | | $ | 6.7 | |
|
Relative Total Shareholder Return | | 88,541 | | $ | 3.2 | |
02/28/23 | 01/01/2021- 12/31/2022 | Relative Total Shareholder Return | | 179,703 | | $ | 4.8 | |
2020 | 02/28/23 | 01/01/2020- 12/31/2022 | Non-GAAP Financial Measure | | 294,424 | | $ | 11.7 | |
Operational Measures | | 67,943 | | $ | 2.6 | |
A summary of our common stock onperformance award transactions for the service inception date of each award. This value will be reassessed at each reporting period to be based on our closing market price of our common stock at the reporting period date with adjustments to expense recorded as appropriate. As ofyear ended December 31, 2019, 85,111 of these awards that were issued in 2018 remained outstanding. The service conditions for these awards lapse on February 26, 2021.2022 is as follows:
In 2017, we granted 660,750 performance shares subject to service, performance and market conditions. The grant date fair value of the awards was $12.9 million, based on the average market price of our common stock at the date of each grant less the present value of dividends not received during the vesting period which will be expensed over the requisite service period of three years. The performance conditions are based on achievement of non-GAAP financial measures similar to those discussed above: cumulative net operating earnings per share for the three-year period ending December 31, 2019 and relative total shareholder return (calculated using a 20 trading day average of our closing price beginning on December 31, 2016 and ending on December 31, 2019). As of December 31, 2019, 528,928 non-vested performance shares granted in 2017 remained outstanding. The service conditions for these awards lapse on February 28, 2020.
|
| | | | | |
(shares) | Performance Awards | | Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Unit ($)(1) |
Non-vested at December 31, 2018 | 1,634,718 |
| | 20.45 |
|
Granted | 552,389 |
| | 25.77 |
|
Forfeited | (156,700 | ) | | 26.72 |
|
Vested | (527,156 | ) | | 28.11 |
|
Non-vested at December 31, 2019 | 1,503,251 |
| | 22.74 |
|
(1)2018 performance shares awarded based on the customer value index are included at reporting date fair value as these awards have not been granted under ASC 718 as discussed above. | | | | | | | | | | | |
(shares) | Performance Awards | | Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Unit ($) |
Non-vested at December 31, 2021 | 1,798,151 | | | 23.78 | |
Granted | 566,086 | | | 31.65 | |
Forfeited | (427,607) | | | 24.34 | |
Vested | (430,890) | | | 25.44 | |
Non-vested at December 31, 2022 | 1,505,740 | | | 26.10 | |
Non-employee Director Awards. As of May 11, 2010,19, 2020, awards to non-employee directors may be made only under the 2020 Omnibus Plan. Currently, restricted stock units are granted annually to non-employee directors, subject to a non-employee director’s election to defer receipt of such restricted stock unit award. The non-employee director’s annual award of restricted stock units vest on the first anniversary of the grant date subject to special pro-rata vesting rules in the event of retirement or disability (as defined in the award agreement), or death. The vested restricted stock units are payable as soon as practicable following vesting except as otherwise provided pursuant to the non-employee director’s election to defer.deferral election. Certain restricted stock units remain outstanding from the 2010 Omnibus Plan and the Director Plan. All such awards are fully vested and shall be distributed to the directors upon their separation from the Board.
As of December 31, 2019, 165,7682022, 228,604 restricted stock units are outstanding to non-employee directors under either the 2020 Omnibus Plan, the 2010 Omnibus Plan or the Director Plan. Of this amount, 49,92663,215 restricted stock units are unvested and expected to vest.
401(k) Match, Profit Sharing and Company Contribution. Eligible salaried employees hired after January 1, 2010 and hourly and union employees hired after January 1, 2013 receive a non-elective company contribution of 3% of eligible pay payable in cash or shares of NiSource common stock. We also have a voluntary 401(k) savings plan covering eligible union and nonunion employees that allows for periodic discretionary matches as a percentage of each participant’s contributions payable in cash for nonunion employees and generally payable in shares of NiSource common stock for union employees, subject to collective bargaining. We alsoor shares. Further, we have a retirement savings plan that provides for discretionary profit sharing contributions similarly payable in cash or shares of NiSource common stock to eligible employees based on earnings results, and eligible employees hired after January 1, 2010 receive a non-elective company contribution of 3% of eligible pay similarly payable in cash or shares of NiSource common stock.employees. For the years ended December 31, 2019, 20182022, 2021 and 2017,2020, we recognized 401(k) match, profit sharing and non-elective contribution expense of $37.5$39.1 million, $37.6$39.1 million and $37.6$37.8 million, respectively.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
14.15. Long-Term Debt
Our long-term debt as of December 31, 20192022 and 20182021 is as follows:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Long-term debt type | Maturity as of December 31, 2019 | Weighted average interest rate (%) | | Outstanding balance as of December 31, (in millions) |
| 2019 | | 2018 |
Senior notes: | | | | | | |
NiSource | December 2021 | 4.45 | % | | 63.6 |
| | 63.6 |
|
NiSource | November 2022 | 2.65 | % | | 500.0 |
| | 500.0 |
|
NiSource | February 2023 | 3.85 | % | | 250.0 |
| | 250.0 |
|
NiSource | June 2023 | 3.65 | % | | 350.0 |
| | 350.0 |
|
NiSource | November 2025 | 5.89 | % | | 265.0 |
| | 265.0 |
|
NiSource | May 2027 | 3.49 | % | | 1,000.0 |
| | 1,000.0 |
|
NiSource | December 2027 | 6.78 | % | | 3.0 |
| | 3.0 |
|
NiSource | September 2029 | 2.95 | % | | 750.0 |
| | — |
|
NiSource | December 2040 | 6.25 | % | | 250.0 |
| | 250.0 |
|
NiSource | June 2041 | 5.95 | % | | 400.0 |
| | 400.0 |
|
NiSource | February 2042 | 5.80 | % | | 250.0 |
| | 250.0 |
|
NiSource | February 2043 | 5.25 | % | | 500.0 |
| | 500.0 |
|
NiSource | February 2044 | 4.80 | % | | 750.0 |
| | 750.0 |
|
NiSource | February 2045 | 5.65 | % | | 500.0 |
| | 500.0 |
|
NiSource | May 2047 | 4.38 | % | | 1,000.0 |
| | 1,000.0 |
|
NiSource | March 2048 | 3.95 | % | | 750.0 |
| | 750.0 |
|
Total senior notes | | | | $ | 7,581.6 |
| | $ | 6,831.6 |
|
Medium term notes: | | | | | | |
NiSource | April 2022 to May 2027 | 7.99 | % | | $ | 49.0 |
| | $ | 49.0 |
|
NIPSCO | August 2022 to August 2027 | 7.61 | % | | 68.0 |
| | 68.0 |
|
Columbia of Massachusetts | December 2025 to February 2028 | 6.30 | % | | 40.0 |
| | 40.0 |
|
Total medium term notes | | | | $ | 157.0 |
| | $ | 157.0 |
|
Finance leases: | | | | | | |
NiSource Corporate Services | January 2020 to November 2023 | 3.47 | % | | 22.3 |
| | 11.6 |
|
Columbia of Ohio | October 2021 to March 2044 | 6.16 | % | | 94.8 |
| | 91.5 |
|
Columbia of Virginia | July 2029 to November 2039 | 6.31 | % | | 19.1 |
| | 15.2 |
|
Columbia of Kentucky | May 2027 | 3.79 | % | | 0.3 |
| | 0.3 |
|
Columbia of Pennsylvania | August 2027 to May 2035 | 5.67 | % | | 20.7 |
| | 30.0 |
|
Columbia of Massachusetts | December 2033 to November 2043 | 5.49 | % | | 44.3 |
| | 45.7 |
|
Total finance leases | | | | 201.5 |
| | 194.3 |
|
Pollution control bonds - NIPSCO | April 2019 | 5.85 | % | | — |
| | 41.0 |
|
Unamortized issuance costs and discounts | | | | (70.5 | ) | | $ | (68.5 | ) |
Total Long-Term Debt | | | | $ | 7,869.6 |
| | $ | 7,155.4 |
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Long-term debt type | Maturity as of December 31, 2022 | Weighted average interest rate (%) | | Outstanding balance as of December 31, (in millions) |
| 2022 | | 2021 |
Senior notes: | | | | | | |
NiSource | August 2025 | 0.95 | % | | $ | 1,250.0 | | | 1,250.0 | |
NiSource | May 2027 | 3.49 | % | | 1,000.0 | | | 1,000.0 | |
NiSource | December 2027 | 6.78 | % | | 3.0 | | | 3.0 | |
NiSource | September 2029 | 2.95 | % | | 750.0 | | | 750.0 | |
NiSource | May 2030 | 3.60 | % | | 1,000.0 | | | 1,000.0 | |
NiSource | February 2031 | 1.70 | % | | 750.0 | | | 750.0 | |
NiSource | December 2040 | 6.25 | % | | 152.6 | | | 152.6 | |
NiSource | June 2041 | 5.95 | % | | 347.4 | | | 347.4 | |
NiSource | February 2042 | 5.80 | % | | 250.0 | | | 250.0 | |
NiSource | February 2043 | 5.25 | % | | 500.0 | | | 500.0 | |
NiSource | February 2044 | 4.80 | % | | 750.0 | | | 750.0 | |
NiSource | February 2045 | 5.65 | % | | 500.0 | | | 500.0 | |
NiSource | May 2047 | 4.38 | % | | 1,000.0 | | | 1,000.0 | |
NiSource | March 2048 | 3.95 | % | | 750.0 | | | 750.0 | |
NiSource | June 2052 | 5.00 | % | | 350.0 | | | $ | — | |
Total senior notes | | | | $ | 9,353.0 | | | $ | 9,003.0 | |
Medium term notes: | | | | | | |
NiSource | May 2027 | 7.99 | % | | $ | 29.0 | | | $ | 49.0 | |
NIPSCO | June 2027 to August 2027 | 7.64 | % | | 58.0 | | | 68.0 | |
Columbia of Massachusetts | December 2025 to February 2028 | 6.37 | % | | 15.0 | | | 15.0 | |
Total medium term notes | | | | $ | 102.0 | | | $ | 132.0 | |
Finance leases: | | | | | | |
NiSource Corporate Services | December 2022 to December 2026 | 2.34 | % | | $ | 48.6 | | | 51.4 | |
NIPSCO | December 2027 to November 2035 | 1.87 | % | | 16.5 | | | 18.7 | |
Columbia of Ohio | December 2025 to March 2044 | 6.15 | % | | 83.5 | | | 87.8 | |
Columbia of Virginia | July 2029 to November 2039 | 6.26 | % | | 17.0 | | | 17.7 | |
Columbia of Kentucky | May 2027 | 3.79 | % | | 0.2 | | | 0.2 | |
Columbia of Pennsylvania | July 2027 to May 2035 | 6.28 | % | | 8.9 | | | 9.8 | |
Total finance leases | | | | $ | 174.7 | | | 185.6 | |
Unamortized issuance costs and discounts | | | | $ | (76.1) | | | $ | (79.1) | |
Total Long-Term Debt | | | | $ | 9,553.6 | | | $ | 9,241.5 | |
Details of our 20192022 long-term debt related activity are summarized below:
•On April 1, 2019, NIPSCO2022, we repaid $41.0$20.0 million of 5.85% pollution control bonds7.99% medium term notes at maturity.
•On August 12, 2019,June 10, 2022, we closed our placementcompleted the issuance and sale of $750.0$350.0 million of 2.95%5.00% senior unsecured notes maturing in 20292052, which resulted in approximately $742.4$344.6 million of net proceeds after deducting commissionsdiscount and expenses.
N•ISOURCE INC.On August 30, 2022, NIPSCO repaid $10.0 million of 7.40% medium term notes at maturity.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
Details of our 2018There was no long-term debt related activity are summarized below:
On March 15, 2018, we redeemed $275.1 million of 6.40% senior unsecured notes at maturity.
In June 2018, we executed a tender offer for $209.0 million of outstanding notes consisting of a combination of our 6.80% notes due 2019, 5.45% notes due 2020, and 6.125% notes due 2022. In conjunction with the debt retired, we recorded a $12.5 million loss on early extinguishment of long-term debt, primarily attributable to early redemption premiums.
On June 11, 2018, we closed our private placement of $350.0 million of 3.65% senior unsecured notes maturing in 2023 which resulted in approximately $346.6 million of net proceeds after deducting commissions and expenses. We used the net proceeds from this private placement to pay a portion of the redemption price for the notes subject to the tender offer described above.
In July 2018, we redeemed $551.1 million of outstanding notes representing the remainder of our 6.80% notes due 2019, 5.45% notes due 2020 and 6.125% notes due 2022. During the third quarter of 2018, we recorded a $33.0 million loss on early extinguishment of long-term debt, primarily attributable to early redemption premiums.during 2021.
See Note 19-A, "Contractual19, "Other Commitments and Contingencies - A. Contractual Obligations," for the outstanding long-term debt maturities at December 31, 2019.2022.
Unamortized debt expense, premium and discount on long-term debt applicable to outstanding bonds are being amortized over the life of such bonds.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
We are subject to a financial covenant under our revolving credit facility and term loancredit agreement which requires us to maintain a debt to capitalization ratio that does not exceed 70%. A similar covenant in a 2005 private placement note purchase agreement requires us to maintain a debt to capitalization ratio that does not exceed 75%. As of December 31, 2019,2022, the ratio was 61.7%58.9%.
We are also subject to certain other non-financial covenants under the revolving credit facility. Such covenants include a limitation on the creation or existence of new liens on our assets, generally exempting liens on utility assets, purchase money security interests, preexisting security interests and an additional subset of assets equal to $150$200 million. An asset sale covenant generally restricts the sale, conveyance, lease, transfer or other disposition of our assets to those dispositions that are for a price not materially less than fair market of such assets, that would not materially impair our ability to perform obligations under the revolving credit facility, and that together with all other such dispositions, would not have a material adverse effect. The covenant also restricts dispositions to no more than 10%15% of our consolidated total assets on December 31, 2015.2020. The revolving credit facility also includes a cross-default provision, which triggers an event of default under the credit facility in the event of an uncured payment default relating to any indebtedness of us or any of our subsidiaries in a principal amount of $50.0$75.0 million or more.
Our indentures generally do not contain any financial maintenance covenants. However, our indentures are generally subject to cross-default provisions ranging from uncured payment defaults of $5 million to $50 million, and limitations on the incurrence of liens on our assets, generally exempting liens on utility assets, purchase money security interests, preexisting security interests and an additional subset of assets capped at 10% of our consolidated net tangible assets.
15.16. Short-Term Borrowings
We generate short-term borrowings from our revolving credit facility, commercial paper program, accounts receivable transfer programs, and term loan borrowings.credit agreement. Each of these borrowing sources is described further below.
Revolving Credit Facility. We maintain a revolving credit facility to fund ongoing working capital requirements, including the provision of liquidity support for our commercial paper program, provide for issuance of letters of credit, and also for general corporate purposes. Our revolving credit facility has a program limit of $1.85 billion and is comprised of a syndicate of banks led by Barclays.banks. On February 20, 2019,18, 2022, we extended the termination date of our revolving credit facility to February 20, 2024.18, 2027. At December 31, 20192022 and 2018,2021, we had 0no outstanding borrowings under this facility.
Commercial Paper Program. Our commercial paper program has a program limit of up to $1.5 billion with a dealer group comprised of Barclays, Citigroup, Credit Suisse and Wells Fargo.billion. We had $570.0$415.0 million and $978.0$560.0 million of commercial paper outstanding with weighted-average interest rates of 4.60% and 0.24% as of December 31, 20192022 and 2018,2021, respectively.
Accounts Receivable Transfer Programs. Columbia of Ohio, NIPSCO, and Columbia of Pennsylvania each maintain a receivables agreement whereby they transfer their customer accounts receivables to third party financial institutions through wholly-owned and consolidated special purpose entities. The three agreements expire between May 2023 and October 2023 and may be further extended if mutually agreed to by the parties thereto.
All receivables transferred to third parties are valued at face value, which approximates fair value due to their short-term nature. The amount of the undivided percentage ownership interest in the accounts receivables transferred is determined in part by required loss reserves under the agreements.
Transfers of accounts receivable are accounted for as secured borrowings resulting in the recognition of short-term borrowings on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. As of December 31, 2022, the maximum amount of debt that could be recognized related to our accounts receivable programs is $500.0 million.
We had $353.2$347.2 million and $399.2 million in transfersno short-term borrowings related to the securitization transactions as of December 31, 20192022 and 2018,2021, respectively. Refer
For the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, $347.2 million and zero, respectively, were recorded as cash flows from financing activities related to Note 18, "Transfersthe change in short-term borrowings due to securitization transactions. For the accounts receivable transfer programs, we pay used facility fees for amounts borrowed, unused commitment fees for amounts not borrowed, and upfront renewal fees. Fees associated with the securitization transactions were $2.5 million, $1.4 million, and $2.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively. Columbia of Financial Assets,"Ohio, NIPSCO and Columbia of Pennsylvania remain responsible for additional information.
collecting on the receivables securitized, and the receivables cannot be transferred to another party.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
Term Credit Agreement.On April 17, 2019,December 20, 2022, we amended our existingentered into a $1.0 billion term loancredit agreement with a syndicate of banks, with MUFG Bank Ltd. as the Administrative Agent, Sole Lead Arrangerbanks. The agreement matures on December 19, 2023 and Sole Bookrunner. The amendment increased the amount of our term loan from $600.0 million to $850.0 million and extended the maturity date to April 16, 2020. Interestinterest charged on the borrowings depends on the variable rate structure we electelected at the time of each borrowing. The available variable rate structures from which we maycan choose are defined in the term loan agreement. Under the agreement, we borrowed $850.0 million$1.0 billion on April 17, 2019December 20, 2022 with an interest rate of LIBORSOFR plus 60105 basis points. We had $1.0 billion outstanding with an interest rate of 5.37% as of December 31, 2022.
Short-term borrowings were as follows:
|
| | | | | | | |
At December 31, (in millions) | 2019 | | 2018 |
Commercial Paper weighted-average interest rate of 2.03% and 2.96% at December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively | $ | 570.0 |
| | $ | 978.0 |
|
Accounts receivable securitization facility borrowings | 353.2 |
| | 399.2 |
|
Term loan weighted-average interest rate of 2.40% and 3.07% at December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively | 850.0 |
| | $ | 600.0 |
|
Total Short-Term Borrowings | $ | 1,773.2 |
| | $ | 1,977.2 |
|
Other than forItems listed above, excluding the term loan and certain commercial paper borrowings, cash flows related to the borrowings and repayments of the items listed abovecredit agreement, are presented net in the Statements of Consolidated Cash Flows as their maturities are less than 90 days.
16.17. Leases
ASC 842 Adoption. In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases (ASC 842). ASU 2016-02 introduces a lessee model that brings most leases onto the balance sheet. The standard requires that lessees recognize the following for all leases (with the exception of short-term leases, as that term is defined in the standard) at the lease commencement date: (1) a lease liability, which is a lessee’s obligation to make lease payments arising from a lease, measured on a discounted basis; and (2) a right-of-use asset, which is an asset that represents the lessee’s right to use, or control the use of, a specified asset for the lease term. In 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-01, Leases (ASC 842): Land Easement Practical Expedient for Transition to ASC 842, which allows us to not evaluate existing land easements under ASC 842, and ASU 2018-11, Leases (ASC 842): Targeted Improvements, which allows calendar year entities to initially apply ASC 842 prospectively from January 1, 2019.
We adopted the provisions of ASC 842 beginning on January 1, 2019, using the transition method provided in ASU 2018-11, which was applied to all existing leases at that date. As such, results for reporting periods beginning after January 1, 2019 will be presented under ASC 842, while prior period amounts will continue to be reported in accordance with ASC 840. We elected a number of practical expedients, including the "practical expedient package" described in ASC 842-10-65-1 and the provisions of ASU 2018-01, which allows us to not evaluate existing land easements under ASC 842. Further, ASC 842 provides lessees the option of electing an accounting policy, by class of underlying asset, in which the lessee may choose not to separate nonlease components from lease components. We elected this practical expedient for our leases of fleet vehicles, IT assets and railcars. We elected to use a practical expedient that allows the use of hindsight in determining lease terms when evaluating leases that existed at the implementation date. We also elected the short-term lease recognition exemption, allowing us to not recognize ROU assets or lease liabilities for all leases that qualify.
Adoption of the new standard resulted in the recording of additional lease liabilities and corresponding ROU assets of $57.0 million on our Consolidated Balance Sheets as of January 1, 2019. The standard had no material impact on our Statements of Consolidated Income (Loss) or our Statements of Consolidated Cash Flows.
Lease Descriptions. We are the lessee for substantially all of our leasing activity, which includes operating and finance leases for corporate and field offices, railcars, fleet vehicles and certain IT assets. Our corporate and field office leases have remaining lease terms between 1 and 2421 years with options to renew the leases for up to 25 years. We lease railcars to transport coal to and from our electric generation facilities in Indiana. Our railcars are specifically identified in the lease agreements andwhich have remaining lease terms between 1 and 35 years with options to renew for 1 year. Our fleet vehicles include trucks, trailers and equipment that have been customized specifically for use in the utility industry. We lease fleet vehicles onfor 1 year terms, after which we have the option to extend on a month-to-month basis or terminate with written notice. We elected the short-term lease practical expedient, allowing us to not recognize ROU assets or lease liabilities for all leases with a term of 12 months or less. ROU assets and liabilities on our Consolidated Balance Sheets do not include obligations for possible fleet vehicle lease renewals beyond the initial lease term. While we have the ability to renew these leases beyond the initial term, we are not reasonably certain (as that term is defined in ASC 842) to do so. We lease the majority of our IT assets under 4 year lease terms. Ownership of leased IT assets is transferred to us at the end of the lease term.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
We have not provided material residual value guarantees for our leases, nor do our leases contain material restrictions or covenants. Lease contracts containing renewal and termination options are mostly exercisable at our sole discretion. Certain of our real estate and railcar leases include renewal periods in the measurement of the lease obligation if we have deemed the renewals reasonably certain to be exercised.
With respect to service contracts involving the use of assets, if we have the right to direct the use of the asset and obtain substantially all economic benefits from the use of an asset, we account for the service contract as a lease. Unless specifically provided to us by the lessor, we utilize NiSource's collateralized incremental borrowing rate commensurate to the lease term as the discount rate for all of our leases. ASC 842 permits a lessee, by class of underlying asset, not to separate nonlease components from lease components. Our policy is to apply this expedient for our leases of fleet vehicles, IT assets and railcars when calculating their respective lease liabilities.
Lease costs for the yearyears ended December 31, 20192022 and December 31, 2021 are presented in the table below. These costs include both amounts recognized in expense and amounts capitalized as part of the cost of another asset. Income statement presentation for these costs (when ultimately recognized on the income statement) is also included:
|
| | | | |
Year Ended December 31, (in millions) | Income Statement Classification | 2019 |
Finance lease cost | | |
Amortization of right-of-use assets | Depreciation and amortization | $ | 15.5 |
|
Interest on lease liabilities | Interest expense, net | 11.3 |
|
Total finance lease cost | | 26.8 |
|
Operating lease cost | Operation and maintenance | 17.9 |
|
Short-term lease cost | Operation and maintenance | 1.0 |
|
Total lease cost | | $ | 45.7 |
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | |
Year Ended December 31, (in millions) | Income Statement Classification | 2022 | | 2021 |
Finance lease cost | | | | |
Amortization of right-of-use assets | Depreciation and amortization | $ | 31.9 | | | $ | 28.8 | |
Interest on lease liabilities | Interest expense, net | 8.5 | | | 9.4 | |
Total finance lease cost | | 40.4 | | | 38.2 | |
Operating lease cost | Operation and maintenance | 10.4 | | | 15.6 | |
| | | | |
| | | | |
Total lease cost | | $ | 50.8 | | | $ | 53.8 | |
Our right-of-use assets and liabilities are presented in the following lines on the Consolidated Balance Sheets:
|
| | | | |
(in millions) | Balance Sheet Classification | December 31, 2019 |
Assets | | |
Finance leases | Net Property, Plant and Equipment | $ | 179.5 |
|
Operating leases | Deferred charges and other | 64.2 |
|
Total leased assets | | 243.7 |
|
Liabilities | | |
Current | | |
Finance leases | Current portion of long-term debt | 13.4 |
|
Operating leases | Other accruals | 13.2 |
|
Noncurrent | | |
Finance leases | Long-term debt, excluding amounts due within one year | 188.1 |
|
Operating leases | Other noncurrent liabilities | 51.6 |
|
Total lease liabilities | | $ | 266.3 |
|
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
Our right-of-use assets and liabilities are presented in the following lines on the Consolidated Balance Sheets:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
At December 31, (in millions) | Balance Sheet Classification | 2022 | | 2021 |
Assets | | | | |
Finance leases | Net Property, Plant and Equipment | $ | 153.4 | | | $ | 165.7 | |
Operating leases | Deferred charges and other | 35.7 | | | 33.8 |
Total leased assets | | $ | 189.1 | | | 199.5 |
Liabilities | | | | |
Current | | | | |
Finance leases | Current portion of long-term debt | $ | 30.0 | | | 28.1 |
Operating leases | Other accruals | 4.8 | | | 6.7 |
Noncurrent | | | | |
Finance leases | Long-term debt, excluding amounts due within one year | 144.7 | | | 157.5 |
Operating leases | Other noncurrent liabilities | 31.9 | | | 27.9 |
Total lease liabilities | | $ | 211.4 | | | $ | 220.2 | |
Other pertinent information related to leases was as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Year Ended December 31, (in millions) | 2022 | | 2021 |
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities | | | |
Operating cash flows used for finance leases | $ | 8.6 | | | $ | 9.4 | |
Operating cash flows used for operating leases | 10.3 | | | 15.4 |
Financing cash flows used for finance leases | 30.3 | | | 25.7 |
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for lease obligations | | | |
Finance leases | 19.3 | | | 22.4 |
Operating leases | $ | 8.8 | | | $ | 6.0 | |
|
| | | |
Year Ended December 31, (in millions) | 2019 |
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities | |
Operating cash flows used for finance leases | $ | 11.3 |
|
Operating cash flows used for operating leases | 17.9 |
|
Financing cash flows used for finance leases | 10.6 |
|
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for lease obligations | |
Finance leases | 26.4 |
|
Operating leases | $ | 13.4 |
|
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| December 31, 2022 | | December 31, 2021 |
Weighted-average remaining lease term (years) | | | |
Finance leases | 9.9 | | 10.6 |
Operating leases | 7.7 | | 8.5 |
Weighted-average discount rate | | | |
Finance leases | 5.1 | % | | 5.0 | % |
Operating leases | 4.0 | % | | 3.7 | % |
|
| | |
| December 31, 2019 |
Weighted-average remaining lease term (years) | |
Finance leases | 14.8 |
|
Operating leases | 9.2 |
|
Weighted-average discount rate | |
Finance leases | 5.9 | % |
Operating leases | 4.3 | % |
Maturities of our lease liabilities presented on a rolling 12-month basis were as follows:
|
| | | | | | | | | |
As of December 31, 2019, (in millions) | Total | Finance Leases | Operating Leases |
Year 1 | $ | 42.8 |
| $ | 27.2 |
| $ | 15.6 |
|
Year 2 | 36.7 |
| 27.3 |
| 9.4 |
|
Year 3 | 35.0 |
| 26.8 |
| 8.2 |
|
Year 4 | 30.7 |
| 23.1 |
| 7.6 |
|
Year 5 | 26.5 |
| 19.9 |
| 6.6 |
|
Thereafter | 233.3 |
| 201.6 |
| 31.7 |
|
Total lease payments(1) | 405.0 |
| 325.9 |
| 79.1 |
|
Less: Imputed interest | (116.6 | ) | (102.3 | ) | (14.3 | ) |
Less: Leases not yet commenced | (22.1 | ) | (22.1 | ) | — |
|
Total | 266.3 |
| 201.5 |
| 64.8 |
|
Reported as of December 31, 2019 | | | |
Short-term lease liabilities | 26.6 |
| 13.4 |
| 13.2 |
|
Long-term lease liabilities | 239.7 |
| 188.1 |
| 51.6 |
|
Total lease liabilities | $ | 266.3 |
| $ | 201.5 |
| $ | 64.8 |
|
(1) Expected payments include obligations for leases not yet commenced of approximately $22.1 million for IT assets and interconnection facilities. These leases have terms between 4 years and 20 years, with estimated commencements in the first quarter of 2020 and in the third quarter of 2020.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
Disclosures Related to Periods Prior to Adoption of ASC 842.We lease assets in several areasMaturities of our operations including fleet vehicles and equipment, rail cars for coal delivery and certain operations centers. Payments made in connection with operating leases were $49.1 million in 2018 and $49.5 million in 2017, and are primarily charged to operation and maintenance expenselease liabilities as incurred.
As of December 31, 2018, total contractual obligations for capital and operating leases2022 were as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
As of December 31, 2022, (in millions) | Total | Finance Leases | Operating Leases |
2023 | $ | 46.8 | | $ | 38.9 | | $ | 7.9 | |
2024 | 37.3 | | 30.9 | | 6.4 | |
2025 | 30.3 | | 24.5 | | 5.8 | |
2026 | 24.7 | | 19.4 | | 5.3 | |
2027 | 19.9 | | 15.4 | | 4.5 | |
Thereafter | 110.8 | | 97.4 | | 13.4 | |
Total lease payments | 269.8 | | 226.5 | | 43.3 | |
Less: Imputed interest | (58.4) | | (51.8) | | (6.6) | |
| | | |
Total | $ | 211.4 | | $ | 174.7 | | $ | 36.7 | |
Reported as of December 31, 2022 | | | |
Short-term lease liabilities | 34.8 | | 30.0 | | 4.8 | |
Long-term lease liabilities | 176.6 | | 144.7 | | 31.9 | |
Total lease liabilities | $ | 211.4 | | $ | 174.7 | | $ | 36.7 | |
|
| | | | | | | | | |
As of December 31, 2018, (in millions) | Total | Capital Leases(1) | Operating Leases(2) |
2019 | $ | 34.0 |
| $ | 23.0 |
| $ | 11.0 |
|
2020 | 29.8 |
| 22.5 |
| 7.3 |
|
2021 | 28.7 |
| 22.6 |
| 6.1 |
|
2022 | 26.3 |
| 22.1 |
| 4.2 |
|
2023 | 22.6 |
| 19.8 |
| 2.8 |
|
Thereafter | 226.9 |
| 212.4 |
| 14.5 |
|
Total lease payments | $ | 368.3 |
| $ | 322.4 |
| $ | 45.9 |
|
(1)Capital lease payments shown above are inclusive of interest totaling $114.6 million.
(2)Operating lease balances do not include obligations for possible fleet vehicle lease renewals beyond the initial lease term. While we have the ability to renew these leases beyond the initial term, we are not reasonably certain to do so. Expected payments are $26.7 million in 2019, $22.4 million in 2020, $16.6 million in 2021, $12.3 million in 2022, $9.3 million in 2023 and $8.8 million thereafter.
17.18. Fair Value
A.Fair Value Measurements
Recurring Fair Value Measurements.
The following tables present financial assets and liabilities measured and recorded at fair value on our Consolidated Balance Sheets on a recurring basis and their level within the fair value hierarchy as of December 31, 20192022 and December 31, 2018:2021:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Recurring Fair Value Measurements December 31, 2022 (in millions) | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | | Balance as of December 31, 2022 |
Assets | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
Risk management assets | $ | — | | | $ | 84.8 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 84.8 | |
| | | | | | | |
Available-for-sale debt securities | — | | | 151.6 | | | — | | | 151.6 | |
Total | $ | — | | | $ | 236.4 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 236.4 | |
Liabilities | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
Risk management liabilities | — | | | 3.0 | | | — | | | 3.0 | |
| | | | | | | |
Total | $ | — | | | $ | 3.0 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 3.0 | |
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Recurring Fair Value Measurements December 31, 2019 (in millions) | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | | Balance as of December 31, 2019 |
Assets | | | | | | | |
Risk management assets | $ | — |
| | $ | 4.4 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 4.4 |
|
Available-for-sale securities | — |
| | 154.2 |
| | — |
| | 154.2 |
|
Total | $ | — |
| | $ | 158.6 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 158.6 |
|
Liabilities | | | | | | | |
Risk management liabilities | $ | — |
| | $ | 146.6 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 146.6 |
|
Total | $ | — |
| | $ | 146.6 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 146.6 |
|
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Recurring Fair Value Measurements December 31, 2021 (in millions) | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | | Balance as of December 31, 2021 |
Assets | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
Risk management assets | $ | — | | | $ | 24.4 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 24.4 | |
| | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
Available-for-sale debt securities | — | | | 171.8 | | | — | | | 171.8 | |
Total | $ | — | | | $ | 196.2 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 196.2 | |
Liabilities | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
Risk management liabilities | $ | — | | | $ | 144.2 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 144.2 | |
| | | | | | | |
Total | $ | — | | | $ | 144.2 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 144.2 | |
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Recurring Fair Value Measurements December 31, 2018 (in millions) | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | | Balance as of December 31, 2018 |
Assets | | | | | | | |
Risk management assets | $ | — |
| | $ | 24.0 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 24.0 |
|
Available-for-sale securities | — |
| | 138.3 |
| | — |
| | 138.3 |
|
Total | $ | — |
| | $ | 162.3 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 162.3 |
|
Liabilities | | | | | | | |
Risk management liabilities | $ | — |
| | $ | 51.7 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 51.7 |
|
Total | $ | — |
| | $ | 51.7 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 51.7 |
|
Risk Management Assets and Liabilities. Risk management assets and liabilities include interest rate swaps, exchange-traded NYMEX futures and NYMEX options and non-exchange-based forward purchase contracts.
Level 1- When utilized, exchange-traded derivative contracts are based on unadjusted quoted prices in active markets and are classified within Level 1. These financial assets and liabilities are secured with cash on deposit with the exchange; therefore, nonperformance risk has not been incorporated into these valuations. These financial assets and liabilities are deemed to be cleared and settled daily by NYMEX as the related cash collateral is posted with the exchange. As a result of this exchange rule, NYMEX derivatives are considered to have no fair value at the balance sheet date for financial reporting purposes, and are presented in Level 1 net of posted cash; however, the derivatives remain outstanding and are subject to future commodity price fluctuations until they are settled in accordance with their contractual terms.
Level 2- Certain non-exchange-traded derivatives are valued using broker or over-the-counter, on-line exchanges. In such cases, these non-exchange-traded derivatives are classified within Level 2. Non-exchange-based derivative instruments include swaps, forwards, and options. In certain instances, these instruments may utilize models to measure fair value. We use a similar model to value similar instruments. Valuation models utilize various inputs that include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, other observable inputs for the asset or liability and market-corroborated inputs, (i.e., inputs derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data by correlation or other means). Where observable inputs are available for substantially the full term of the asset or liability, the instrument is categorized within Level 2.
Level 3- Certain derivatives trade in less active markets with a lower availability of pricing information and models may be utilized in the valuation. When such inputs have a significant impact on the measurement of fair value, the instrument is categorized within Level 3.
Credit risk is considered in the fair value calculation of derivative instruments that are not exchange-traded. Credit exposures are adjusted to reflect collateral agreements whichthat reduce exposures. As of December 31, 20192022 and 2018,2021, there were 0no material transfers between fair value hierarchies. Additionally, there were no changes in the method or significant assumptions used to estimate the fair value of our financial instruments.
We have entered into forward-starting interest rate swaps to hedge the interest rate risk on coupon payments of forecasted issuances of long-term debt. These derivatives are designated as cash flow hedges. Credit risk is considered in the fair value calculation of each agreement. As they are based on observable data and valuations of similar instruments, the hedges are categorized within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. There was no exchange of premium at the initial date of the swaps and we can settle the contracts at any time. For additional information, see Note 9, "Risk Management Activities."
NIPSCO has entered into long-term forward natural gas purchase instruments that range from five to ten years to lock in a fixed price for its natural gas customers. We value these contracts using a pricing model that incorporates market-based information when available, as these instruments trade less frequently and are classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. For additional information, see Note 9,10, “Risk Management Activities.”
NAvailable-for-Sale Debt Securities. ISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
Available-for-sale debt securities are investments pledged as collateral for trust accounts related to our wholly-owned insurance company. Available-for-sale securities are included within “Other investments” in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. We value U.S. Treasury, corporate debt and mortgage-backed securities using a matrix pricing model that incorporates market-based information. These securities trade less frequently and are classified within Level 2. Total
Our available-for-sale debt securities impairments are recognized periodically using an allowance approach. At each reporting date, we utilize a quantitative and qualitative review process to assess the impairment of available-for-sale debt securities at the individual security level. For securities in a loss position, we evaluate our intent to sell or whether it is more-likely-than-not that
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
we will be required to sell the security prior to the recovery of its amortized cost. If either criteria is met, the loss is recognized in earnings immediately, with the offsetting entry to the carrying value of the security. If both criteria are not met, we perform an analysis to determine whether the unrealized gainsloss is related to credit factors. The analysis focuses on a variety of factors that include, but are not limited to, downgrade on ratings of the security, defaults in the current reporting period or projected defaults in the future, the security's yield spread over treasuries, and losses from available-for-sale securities areother relevant market data. If the unrealized loss is not related to credit factors, it is included in other comprehensive income. If the unrealized loss is related to credit factors, the loss is recognized as credit loss expense in earnings during the period, with an offsetting entry to the allowance for credit losses. The amount of the credit loss recorded to the allowance account is limited by the amount at which the security's fair value is less than its amortized cost basis. If certain amounts recorded in the allowance for credit losses are deemed uncollectible, the allowance on the uncollectible portion will be charged off, with an offsetting entry to the carrying value of the security. Subsequent improvements to the estimated credit losses of available-for-sale debt securities will be recognized immediately in earnings. As of December 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, we recorded $0.9 million and $0.2 million, respectively, as an allowance for credit losses on available-for-sale debt securities as a result of the analysis described above. Continuous credit monitoring and portfolio credit balancing mitigates our risk of credit losses on our available-for-sale debt securities.
The amortized cost, gross unrealized gains and losses, allowance for credit losses, and fair value of available-for-sale securities at December 31, 20192022 and 20182021 were:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
December 31, 2022 (in millions) | Amortized Cost | | Gross Unrealized Gains | | Gross Unrealized Losses(1) | | Allowance for Credit Losses | | Fair Value |
Available-for-sale debt securities | | | | | | | | | |
U.S. Treasury debt securities | $ | 67.7 | | | $ | — | | | $ | (4.5) | | | $ | — | | | $ | 63.2 | |
Corporate/Other debt securities | 99.0 | | | — | | | (9.7) | | | (0.9) | | | 88.4 | |
Total | $ | 166.7 | | | $ | — | | | $ | (14.2) | | | $ | (0.9) | | | $ | 151.6 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
December 31, 2021 (in millions) | Amortized Cost | | Gross Unrealized Gains | | Gross Unrealized Losses(2) | | Allowance for Credit Losses | | Fair Value |
Available-for-sale debt securities | | | | | | | | | |
U.S. Treasury debt securities | $ | 52.8 | | | $ | 0.1 | | | $ | (0.4) | | | $ | — | | | $ | 52.5 | |
Corporate/Other debt securities | 116.5 | | | 3.7 | | | (0.7) | | | (0.2) | | | 119.3 | |
Total | $ | 169.3 | | | $ | 3.8 | | | $ | (1.1) | | | $ | (0.2) | | | $ | 171.8 | |
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
December 31, 2019 (in millions) | Amortized Cost | | Gross Unrealized Gains | | Gross Unrealized Losses | | Fair Value |
Available-for-sale securities | | | | | | | |
U.S. Treasury debt securities | $ | 31.4 |
| | $ | 0.1 |
| | $ | (0.1 | ) | | $ | 31.4 |
|
Corporate/Other debt securities | 118.7 |
| | 4.2 |
| | (0.1 | ) | | 122.8 |
|
Total | $ | 150.1 |
| | $ | 4.3 |
| | $ | (0.2 | ) | | $ | 154.2 |
|
| | | | | | | |
December 31, 2018 (in millions) | Amortized Cost | | Gross Unrealized Gains | | Gross Unrealized Losses | | Fair Value |
Available-for-sale securities | | | | | | | |
U.S. Treasury debt securities | $ | 23.6 |
| | $ | 0.1 |
| | $ | (0.1 | ) | | $ | 23.6 |
|
Corporate/Other debt securities | 117.7 |
| | 0.4 |
| | (3.4 | ) | | 114.7 |
|
Total | $ | 141.3 |
| | $ | 0.5 |
| | $ | (3.5 | ) | | $ | 138.3 |
|
(1) Fair value of U.S. Treasury debt securities and Corporate/Other debt securities in an unrealized loss position without an allowance for credit losses is $61.0 and $85.5 million, respectively, at December 31, 2022.(2) Fair value of U.S. Treasury debt securities and Corporate/Other debt securities in an unrealized loss position without an allowance for credit losses is $36.2 million and $35.4 million, respectively, at December 31, 2021.
Realized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities were immaterial for the year-ended December 31, 20192022 and 2018.2021.
The cost of maturities sold is based upon specific identification. At December 31, 2019,2022, approximately $7.7$5.2 million of U.S. Treasury debt securities and approximately $6.0$5.8 million of Corporate/Other debt securities have maturities of less than a year.
There are no material items in the fair value reconciliation of Level 3 assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis for the years ended December 31, 20192022 and 2018.2021.
Non-recurring Fair Value Measurements.
We measure the fair value of certain assets, including goodwill, on a non-recurring basis, typically annually or when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets may not be recoverable. These assets include goodwill
Purchase Contract Liability. On April 19, 2021, we recorded the purchase contract liability at fair value using a discounted cash flow method and other intangible assets.observable, market-corroborated inputs. This estimate was made at April 19, 2021, and will not be remeasured at each subsequent balance sheet date. It has been categorized within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. Refer to Note 13, "Equity," for additional information.
At December 31, 2019, we recorded an impairment charge of N$204.8 millionISOURCE for goodwill and an impairment charge of $209.7 million for franchise rights, in each case relatedINC.
Notes to Columbia of Massachusetts. For additional information, see Note 6, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets.”Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
B. Other Fair Value Disclosures for Financial Instruments. The carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, notes receivable, customer deposits and short-term borrowings is a reasonable estimate of fair value due to their liquid or short-term nature. Our long-term borrowings are recorded at historical amounts.
The following method and assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of each class of financial instruments.
Long-term debt. The fair value of outstanding long-term debt is estimated based on the quoted market prices for the same or similar securities. Certain premium costs associated with the early settlement of long-term debt are not taken into consideration in determining fair value. These fair value measurements are classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. For the years ended December 31, 20192022 and 2018,2021, there was no change in the method or significant assumptions used to estimate the fair value of long-term debt.
The carrying amount and estimated fair values of these financial instruments were as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
At December 31, (in millions) | Carrying Amount 2022 | | Estimated Fair Value 2022 | | Carrying Amount 2021 | | Estimated Fair Value 2021 |
Long-term debt (including current portion) | $ | 9,553.6 | | | $ | 8,479.4 | | | $ | 9,241.5 | | | $ | 10,415.7 | |
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
The carrying amount and estimated fair values of these financial instruments were as follows:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
At December 31, (in millions) | Carrying Amount 2019 | | Estimated Fair Value 2019 | | Carrying Amount 2018 | | Estimated Fair Value 2018 |
Long-term debt (including current portion) | $ | 7,869.6 |
| | $ | 8,764.4 |
| | $ | 7,155.4 |
| | $ | 7,228.3 |
|
18. Transfers of Financial Assets
Columbia of Ohio, NIPSCO and Columbia of Pennsylvania each maintain a receivables agreement whereby they transfer their customer accounts receivables to third party financial institutions through wholly-owned and consolidated special purpose entities. The three agreements expire between May 2020 and October 2020 and may be further extended if mutually agreed to by the parties thereto.
All receivables transferred to third parties are valued at face value, which approximates fair value due to their short-term nature. The amount of the undivided percentage ownership interest in the accounts receivables transferred is determined in part by required loss reserves under the agreements.
Transfers of accounts receivable are accounted for as secured borrowings resulting in the recognition of short-term borrowings on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. As of December 31, 2019, the maximum amount of debt that could be recognized related to our accounts receivable programs is $465.0 million.
The following table reflects the gross receivables balance and net receivables transferred as well as short-term borrowings related to the securitization transactions as of December 31, 2019 and 2018:
|
| | | | | | | |
At December 31, (in millions) | 2019 | | 2018 |
Gross receivables | $ | 569.1 |
| | $ | 694.4 |
|
Less: receivables not transferred | 215.9 |
| | 295.2 |
|
Net receivables transferred | $ | 353.2 |
| | $ | 399.2 |
|
Short-term debt due to asset securitization | $ | 353.2 |
| | $ | 399.2 |
|
During 2019, $46.0 million was recorded as cash flows used for financing activities related to the change in short-term borrowings due to securitization transactions. During 2018, $62.5 million was recorded as cash flows from financing activities related to the change in short-term borrowings due to securitization transactions. Fees associated with the securitization transactions were $2.6 million, $2.6 million and $2.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively. Columbia of Ohio, NIPSCO and Columbia of Pennsylvania remain responsible for collecting on the receivables securitized, and the receivables cannot be transferred to another party.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
19. Other Commitments and Contingencies
A. Contractual Obligations. We have certain contractual obligations requiring payments at specified periods. The obligations include long-term debt, lease obligations, energy commodity contracts and obligations for various services including pipeline capacity and outsourcing of IT services. The total contractual obligations in existence at December 31, 20192022 and their maturities were:
| | (in millions) | Total | | 2020 | | 2021 | | 2022 | | 2023 | | 2024 | | After | (in millions) | Total | | 2023 | | 2024 | | 2025 | | 2026 | | 2027 | | After |
Long-term debt (1) | $ | 7,738.6 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 63.6 |
| | $ | 530.0 |
| | $ | 600.0 |
| | $ | — |
| | $ | 6,545.0 |
| Long-term debt (1) | $ | 9,455.0 | | | $ | — | | | $ | — | | | $ | 1,260.0 | | | $ | — | | | $ | 1,090.0 | | | $ | 7,105.0 | |
Interest payments on long-term debt | 6,214.2 |
| | 342.0 |
| | 340.7 |
| | 337.1 |
| | 311.1 |
| | 299.9 |
| | 4,583.4 |
| Interest payments on long-term debt | 5,890.4 | | | 351.6 | | | 351.6 | | | 351.6 | | | 339.1 | | | 319.7 | | | 4,176.8 | |
Finance leases(2) | 325.9 |
| | 27.2 |
| | 27.3 |
| | 26.8 |
| | 23.1 |
| | 19.9 |
| | 201.6 |
| Finance leases(2) | 226.5 | | | 38.9 | | | 30.9 | | | 24.5 | | | 19.4 | | | 15.4 | | | 97.4 | |
Operating leases(3) | 79.1 |
| | 15.6 |
| | 9.4 |
| | 8.2 |
| | 7.6 |
| | 6.6 |
| | 31.7 |
| Operating leases(3) | 43.3 | | | 7.9 | | | 6.4 | | | 5.8 | | | 5.3 | | | 4.5 | | | 13.4 | |
Energy commodity contracts(4) | 95.9 |
| | 65.5 |
| | 30.4 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| |
Energy commodity contracts | | Energy commodity contracts | 231.7 | | | 119.7 | | | 76.0 | | | 36.0 | | | — | | | — | | | — | |
Service obligations: |
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | Service obligations: | |
Pipeline service obligations | 3,450.7 |
| | 605.0 |
| | 590.1 |
| | 546.8 |
| | 357.2 |
| | 237.5 |
| | 1,114.1 |
| Pipeline service obligations | 2,484.9 | | | 642.2 | | | 556.9 | | | 410.5 | | | 337.2 | | | 328.8 | | | 209.3 | |
IT service obligations | 153.2 |
| | 63.6 |
| | 49.4 |
| | 38.0 |
| | 1.1 |
| | 1.1 |
| | — |
| IT service obligations | 177.4 | | | 71.9 | | | 50.0 | | | 41.3 | | | 11.4 | | | 2.8 | | | — | |
Other service obligations(5) | 59.8 |
| | 45.8 |
| | 14.0 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| |
Other liabilities | 27.3 |
| | 27.3 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| |
Other liabilities(4) | | Other liabilities(4) | 654.2 | | | 612.5 | | | 6.2 | | | 5.9 | | | 5.2 | | | 5.2 | | | 19.2 | |
Total contractual obligations | $ | 18,144.7 |
| | $ | 1,192.0 |
| | $ | 1,124.9 |
| | $ | 1,486.9 |
| | $ | 1,300.1 |
| | $ | 565.0 |
| | $ | 12,475.8 |
| Total contractual obligations | $ | 19,163.4 | | | $ | 1,844.7 | | | $ | 1,078.0 | | | $ | 2,135.6 | | | $ | 717.6 | | | $ | 1,766.4 | | | $ | 11,621.1 | |
(1) Long-term debt balance excludes unamortized issuance costs and discounts of $70.5$76.1 million.
(2) Finance lease payments shown above are inclusive of interest totaling $108.3$51.8 million.
(3) Operating lease payments shown above are inclusive of interest totaling $14.3$6.6 million. Operating lease balances do not include obligations for possible fleet vehicle lease renewals beyond the initial lease term. While we have the ability to renew these leases beyond the initial term, we are not reasonably certain (as that term is defined in ASC 842) to do so. If we were to continueso as they are renewed month-to-month after the fleet vehicle leases outstanding at December 31, 2019,first year.
(4)Other liabilities shown above are inclusive of the Rosewater, Indiana Crossroads Wind, and Indiana Crossroads Solar Developer payments would be $34.5 million in 2020, $28.3 million in 2021, $23.4 million in 2022, $19.9 milliondue in 2023 $15.2 million in 2024 and $15.2 million thereafter.
(4)In January 2020, NIPSCO signed new coalEquity Unit purchase contract commitments of $14.4 million for 2020. These contracts are not included above.
(5)In February 2020, NIPSCO signed a new railcar coal transportation contract commitment of $12.0 million for 2020. This contract is not included above.
Operating and Finance Lease Commitments.We lease assets in several areas of our operations including corporate and field offices, railcars, fleet vehicles and certain IT assets. Paymentsliability payments to be made in connection with operating and month-to-month leases were $52.5 million in 2019, $49.1 million in 2018 and $49.5 million in 2017, and are primarily charged to operation and maintenance expense as incurred. See Note 16, "Leases" for additional details.2023.
Purchase and Service Obligations. We have entered into various purchase and service agreements whereby we are contractually obligated to make certain minimum payments in future periods. Our purchase obligations are for the purchase of physical quantities of natural gas, electricity and coal. Our service agreements encompass a broad range of business support and maintenance functions which are generally described below.
Our subsidiaries have entered into various energy commodity contracts to purchase physical quantities of natural gas, electricity and coal. These amounts represent the minimum quantitiesquantity of these commodities we are obligated to purchase at both fixed and variable prices. To the extent contractual purchase prices are variable, obligations disclosed in the table above are valued at market prices as of December 31, 2019.2022.
In July 2008, the IURC issued an order approving NIPSCO’sNIPSCO has power purchase power agreements with subsidiariesarrangements representing a total of Iberdrola Renewables, Buffalo Ridge I LLC and Barton Windpower LLC. These agreements provide NIPSCO the opportunity and obligation to purchase up to 100500 MW of wind power, generated commencing in early 2009. Thewith contracts extend 15expiring between 2024 and 20 years, representing 50 MW of wind power each.2040. No minimum quantities are specified within these agreements due to the variability of electricity generation from wind, so no amounts related to these contracts are included in the table above. Upon anyearly termination of theone of these agreements by NIPSCO for any reason (other than material breach by Buffalo Ridge I LLC or Barton Windpower LLC)the counterparties), NIPSCO may be required to pay a termination charge that could be material depending on the events giving rise to termination and the timing of the termination. NIPSCO began purchasing wind power in April 2009.
We have pipeline service agreements that provide for pipeline capacity, transportation and storage services. These agreements, which have expiration dates ranging from 20202023 to 2045,2038, require us to pay fixed monthly charges.
NIPSCO has contracts with three major rail operators providing coal transportation services for which there are certain minimum payments. These service contracts extend for various periods through 2028.
We have executed agreements with multiple IT service providers. The agreements extend for various periods through 2028.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
NIPSCO has contracts with 3 major rail operators providing for coal transportation services for which there are certain minimum payments. These service contracts extend for various periods through 2021.
We have executed agreements with multiple IT service providers. The agreements extend for various periods through 2024.
B. Guarantees and Indemnities. We and certain of our subsidiaries enter into various agreements providing financial or performance assurance to third parties on behalf of certain subsidiaries as part of normal business. Such agreements include guarantees and stand-by letters of credit. These agreements are entered into primarily to support or enhance the creditworthiness otherwise attributed to a subsidiary on a stand-alone basis, thereby facilitating the extension of sufficient credit to accomplish the subsidiaries’ intended commercial purposes. At December 31, 20192022 and 2018,2021, we had issued stand-by letters of credit of $10.2 million and $18.9 million, respectively, for the benefit of third parties.
We provide guarantees related to our future performance under BTAs for our renewable generation projects. At December 31, 2022 and 2021, our guarantees for multiple BTAs totaled $841.6 million and $288.9 million, respectively. The amount of each guaranty will decrease upon the substantial completion of the construction of the facilities. See “- F. Other Matters - Generation Transition,” below for more information.
C. Legal Proceedings.
On September 13, 2018, a series of fires and explosions occurred in Lawrence, Andover, and North Andover, Massachusetts related to the delivery of natural gas by Columbia of Massachusetts (the "Greater Lawrence Incident"). The Greater Lawrence Incident resulted in one fatality and a number of injuries, damaged multiple homes and businesses, and caused the temporary evacuation of significant portions of each municipality. The Massachusetts Governor’s Office declared a state of emergency, authorizing the Massachusetts DPU to order another utility company to coordinate the restoration of utility services in Lawrence, Andover and North Andover. The incident resulted in the interruption of gas for approximately 7,500 gas meters, the majority of which served residences and approximately 700 of which served businesses, and the interruption of other utility service more broadly in the area. Columbia of Massachusetts has replaced the cast iron and bare steel gas pipeline system in the affected area and restored service to nearly all of the gas meters. See “ - E. Other Matters - Greater Lawrence Pipeline Replacement” below for more information.
We arehave been subject to inquiries and investigations by government authorities and regulatory agencies regarding the Greater Lawrence Incident, including the Massachusetts DPU and the Massachusetts Attorney General's Office, as described below. We are cooperating with all inquiries and investigations. In addition, on February 26, 2020, the Company and Columbia of Massachusetts entered into agreements with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to resolve the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s investigation relating to the Greater Lawrence Incident, as described below.
NTSB Investigation. As previously disclosed, the NTSB concluded its investigation into the Greater Lawrence Incident, and we are implementing the 1 remaining safety recommendation resulting from the investigation.
Massachusetts Investigations. Under Massachusetts law, the DPU is authorized to investigate potential violations of pipeline safety regulations and to assess a civil penalty of up to $218,647 for a violation of federal pipeline safety regulations. A separate violation occurs for each day of violation up to $2.2 million for a related series of violations. The Massachusetts DPU also is authorized to investigate potential violations of the Columbia of Massachusetts emergency response plan and to assess penalties of up to $250,000 per violation per day, or up to $20 million per related series of violations. Further, as a result of the declaration of emergency by the Governor, the DPU is authorized to investigate potential violations of the DPU's operational directives during the restoration efforts and assess penalties of up to $1 million per violation. Pursuant to these authorities, the DPU is investigating Columbia of Massachusetts as described below. Columbia of Massachusetts will likely be subject to potential compliance actions related to the Greater Lawrence Incident and the restoration work following the incident, the timing and outcomes of which are uncertain at this time.
After the Greater Lawrence Incident, the Massachusetts DPU retained an independent evaluator to conduct a statewide examination of the safety of the natural gas distribution system and the operational and maintenance functions of natural gas companies in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Through authority granted by the Massachusetts Governor under the state of emergency, the Chair of the Massachusetts DPU has directed all natural gas distribution companies operating in the Commonwealth to fund the statewide examination. The statewide examination is complete. The Phase I report, which was issued in May 2019, included a program level assessment and evaluation of natural gas distribution companies. The Phase I report's conclusions were statewide and contained no specific conclusions about Columbia of Massachusetts. Phase II, which was focused on field assessments of each Massachusetts gas company, concluded in December 2019. The Phase II report made several observations about and recommendations to Massachusetts gas companies, including Columbia of Massachusetts, with regard to safety culture and assets. The final report was issued in late January 2020, and the DPU directed each natural gas distribution company operating in Massachusetts to submit a plan in response to the report no later than February 28, 2020.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
On September 11, 2019, the Massachusetts DPU issued an order directing Columbia of Massachusetts to take several specific actions to address concerns related to service lines abandoned during the restoration work following the Greater Lawrence Incident and to furnish certain information and periodic reports to the DPU.
On October 1, 2019, the Massachusetts DPU issued four orders to Columbia of Massachusetts in connection with the service lines abandoned during the Greater Lawrence Incident restoration, which require: (1) the submission of a detailed work plan to the DPU, (2) the completion of quality control work on certain abandoned services, (3) the payment for a third-party independent audit, to be contracted through the DPU, of all gas pipeline work completed as part of the incident restoration effort, and (4) prompt and full response to any requests for information by the third-party auditor. The Massachusetts DPU retained an independent evaluator to conduct this audit, and that third party is currently evaluating compliance with Massachusetts and federal law, as well as any other operational or safety risks that may be posed by the pipeline work. The audit scope also includes Columbia of Massachusetts' operations in the Lawrence Division and other service territories as appropriate.
Also in October 2019, the Massachusetts DPU issued three additional orders requiring: (1) daily leak surveillance and reporting in areas where abandoned services are located, (2) completion by November 15, 2019 of the work plan previously submitted describing how Columbia of Massachusetts would address the estimated 2,200 locations at which an inside meter set was moved outside the property as part of the abandoned service work completed during the Greater Lawrence Incident restoration, and (3) submission of a report by December 2, 2019 showing any patterns, trends or correlations among the non-compliant work related to the abandonment of service lines, gate boxes and curb boxes during the incident restoration.
On October 3, 2019, the Massachusetts DPU notified Columbia of Massachusetts that, absent DPU approval, it is currently allowed to perform only emergency work on its gas distribution system throughout its service territories in Massachusetts. The restrictions do not apply to Columbia of Massachusetts’ work to address the previously identified issues with abandoned service lines and valve boxes in the Greater Lawrence, Massachusetts area. Columbia of Massachusetts is subject to daily monitoring by the DPU on any work that Columbia of Massachusetts conducts in Massachusetts. Such restrictions on work remain in place until modified by the DPU.
On October 25, 2019, the Massachusetts DPU issued two orders opening public investigations into Columbia of Massachusetts with respect to the Greater Lawrence Incident. The Massachusetts DPU opened the first investigation under its authority to determine compliance with federal and state pipeline safety laws and regulations, and to investigate Columbia of Massachusetts’ responsibility for and response to the Greater Lawrence Incident and its restoration efforts following the incident. The Massachusetts DPU opened the second investigation under its authority to determine whether a gas distribution company has violated established standards regarding acceptable performance for emergency preparedness and restoration of service to investigate efforts by Columbia of Massachusetts to prepare for and restore service following the Greater Lawrence Incident. Separate penalties are applicable under each exercise of authority.
On December 23, 2019, the Massachusetts DPU issued an order defining the scope of its investigation into the response of Columbia of Massachusetts related to the Greater Lawrence Incident. The DPU identified three distinct time frames in which Columbia of Massachusetts handled emergency response and restoration directly: (1) September 13-14, 2018, (2) September 21 through December 16, 2018 (the Phase I restoration), and (3) September 27, 2019 through completion of restoration of outages resulting from the gas release event in Lawrence, Massachusetts that occurred on September 27, 2019. The DPU determined that it is appropriate to investigate separately, for each time period described above, the areas of response, recovery and restoration for which Columbia of Massachusetts was responsible. The DPU noted that it also may investigate the continued restoration and related repair work that took place after December 16, 2018 and, depending on the outcome of that investigation, may deem it appropriate to consider that period of restoration as an additional separate time period.
The DPU also noted that its investigation into all of the above described time periods is ongoing and that if the DPU determines, based on its investigation, that it is appropriate to treat the separate time frames as separate emergency events, it may impose up to the maximum statutory penalty for each event, pursuant to Mass. G.L. c. 164 Section 1J. This provision authorizes the DPU to investigate potential violations of the Columbia of Massachusetts emergency response plan and to assess penalties of up to $250,000 per violation per day, or up to $20 million per related series of violations. The DPU noted that at this preliminary stage of the investigation, it does not have the factual basis to make those determinations.
In connection with its investigation related to the Greater Lawrence Incident, on February 4, 2020, the Massachusetts Attorney General's Office issued a request for documents primarily focused on the restoration work following the incident.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
Columbia of Massachusetts is cooperating with the investigations set forth above as well as other inquiries resulting from an increased amount of enforcement activity, for all of which the outcomes are uncertain at this time.
Massachusetts Legislative Matters. On November 12, 2019, the Joint Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy held a hearing that focused on gas safety, but the Committee has not taken action on any bills. Increased scrutiny related to gas system safety and regulatory oversight in Massachusetts, including additional legislative oversight hearings and new legislative proposals, is expected to continue during the current two-year legislative session that ends in December 2020.
U.S. Department of Justice Investigation. As previously disclosed, the Company and Columbia of Massachusetts are subject to a criminal investigation related to the Greater Lawrence Incident that is being conducted under the supervision of the U.S. Attorney's Office. The initial grand jury subpoenas were served on the Company and Columbia of Massachusetts on September 24, 2018.
On February 26, 2020, the Company and Columbia of Massachusetts entered into agreements with the U.S. Attorney’sAttorney's Office for the District of Massachusetts to resolve the U.S. Attorney's Office’s investigation relating to the Greater Lawrence Incident, as described below.The Company and Columbia of Massachusetts entered into an agreement with the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office (among other parties) to resolve the Massachusetts DPU and the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office investigations, that was approved by the Massachusetts DPU on October 7, 2020 as part of the sale of the Massachusetts Business to Eversource.
U.S. Department of Justice Investigation. On February 26, 2020, the Company and Columbia of Massachusetts entered into agreements with the U.S. Attorney's Office to resolve the U.S. Attorney’s Office’sAttorney's Office's investigation relating to the Greater Lawrence Incident. Columbia of Massachusetts agreed to plead guilty in the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts (the “Court”"Court") to violating the Natural Gas Pipeline Safety Act (the “Plea Agreement”), and the Company entered into a DPA.Deferred Prosecution Agreement (the "DPA").
UnderOn March 9, 2020, Columbia of Massachusetts entered its guilty plea pursuant to the Plea Agreement. The Court sentenced Columbia of Massachusetts on June 23, 2020, in accordance with the terms of the Plea Agreement (as modified).On June 23, 2021, the Court terminated Columbia of Massachusetts' period of probation under the Plea Agreement, which must be approved bymarked the Court, Columbiacompletion of Massachusetts will be subject to the followingall terms among others: (i) a criminal fine in the amount of $53,030,116 paid within 30 days of sentencing; (ii) a three year probationary period that will early terminate upon a sale of Columbia of Massachusetts or a sale of its gas distribution business to a qualified third-party buyer consistent with certain requirements; (iii) compliance with each of the NTSB recommendations stemming from the Greater Lawrence Incident; and (iv) employment of an in-house monitor during the term of the probationary period.Plea Agreement.
Under the DPA, the U.S. Attorney’sAttorney's Office agreed to defer prosecution of the Company in connection with the Greater Lawrence Incident for a three-year period ending on February 26, 2023 (which three-year period may be extended for twelve (12) months upon the U.S. Attorney’s Office’sAttorney's Office's determination of a breach of the DPA) subject to certain obligations of the Company, including, but not limited to, the following: (i) the Company will use reasonable best efforts to sell Columbia of Massachusetts or Columbia of Massachusetts’ gas distribution business to a qualified third-party buyer consistent with certain requirements, and, upon the completion of any such sale, the Company will cease and desist any and all gas pipeline and distribution activities in the District of Massachusetts; (ii) the Company will forfeit and pay, within 30 days of the later of the sale becoming final or the date on which post-closing adjustments to the purchase price are finally determined in accordance with theCompany's agreement, to sell Columbia Gas of Massachusetts or its gas distribution business, a fine equal to the total amount of any profit or gain from any sale of Columbia of Massachusetts or its gas distribution business, with the amount of profit or gain determined as provided in the DPA; and (iii) the Company agrees as to each of the Company’sCompany's subsidiaries involved in the distribution of gas through pipeline facilities in Massachusetts, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Kentucky and Virginia to implement and adhere to each of the recommendations from the NTSB stemming from the Greater Lawrence Incident. Pursuant to the DPA, if the Company complies with all of its obligations under the DPA, including, but not limited to those identified above, the U.S. Attorney’sAttorney's Office will not file any criminal charges against the Company related to the Greater Lawrence Incident. If Columbia of Massachusetts’ guilty plea is not accepted by the Court or is withdrawn for any reason, or if Columbia of Massachusetts should fail to perform an obligation under the Plea Agreement prior to the sale of Columbia of Massachusetts or its gas distribution business, the U.S. Attorney's Office may, at its sole option, render the DPA null and void.
U.S. Congressional Activity. On September 30, 2019, the U.S. Pipeline Safety Act expired. There is no effect on PHMSA's authority. Action on past re-authorization bills has extended past the expiration date and action on this re-authorization is expected to continue well into 2020. Pipeline safety jurisdiction resides with the U.S. Senate Commerce Committee, and is divided between two committees in the U.S. House of Representatives (Energy and Commerce, and Transportation and Infrastructure). Legislative proposals are currently in various stages of committee development and the timing of further action is uncertain. Certain legislative proposals, if enacted into law, may increase costs for natural gas industry companies, including the Company and Columbia of Massachusetts.
SEC Investigation. On November 27, 2019, the SEC staff notified the Company that it concluded its investigation related to disclosures made by the Company prior to the Greater Lawrence Incident and, based on the information provided as of such date, it does not intend to recommend an enforcement action against the Company.
Private Actions. Various lawsuits, including several purported class action lawsuits, have beenwere filed by various affected residents or businesses in Massachusetts state courts against the Company and/or Columbia of Massachusetts in connection with the Greater Lawrence Incident. A special judge has been appointed
On March 12, 2020, the Court granted final approval of the settlement of the consolidated class action. With respect to hear all pendingclaims not included in the consolidated class action, many of the asserted wrongful death and future cases and the class actionsbodily injury claims have been consolidated into one class action. On January 14, 2019,settled, and we continue to discuss potential settlements with remaining claimants. The outcomes and impacts of such private actions are uncertain at this time.
FERC Investigation. In April 2022, NIPSCO was notified that the special judge grantedFERC Office of Enforcement (“OE”) is conducting an investigation of an industrial customer for allegedly manipulating the parties’ joint motionMISO Demand Response (“DR”) market. The customer and NIPSCO are cooperating with the investigation. If the OE ultimately were to stay all cases untilseek to require the customer to repay any portion of the DR revenue received from MISO, it is reasonably possible that the OE would also seek to require NIPSCO to
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
April 30, 2019disgorge administrative fees and foregone margin charges that NIPSCO collected pursuant to allow mediation,its own IURC-approved tariff. NIPSCO currently estimates the maximum amount of its disgorgement exposure to be $9.7 million, and the parties subsequently agreedinvestigation is still ongoing. NIPSCO intends to extend the stay until July 25, 2019. The class action lawsuits allege varying causes of action, including those for strict liability for ultra-hazardous activity, negligence, private nuisance, public nuisance, premises liability, trespass, breach of warranty, breach of contract, failure to warn, unjust enrichment, consumer protection act claims, negligent, reckless and intentional infliction of emotional distress and gross negligence, and seek actual compensatory damages, plus treble damages, and punitive damages.
On July 26, 2019, the Company, Columbia of Massachusetts and NiSource Corporate Services Company, a subsidiary of the Company, entered into a term sheetindemnification under its agreements with the class action plaintiffs under which they agreed to settle the class action claims in connection with the Greater Lawrence Incident. Columbia of Massachusetts agreed to pay $143 million into a settlement fund to compensate the settlement class and the settlement class agreed to release Columbia of Massachusetts and affiliates from all claims arising out of orcustomer for any liability NIPSCO incurs related to the Greater Lawrence Incident. The following claims are not covered under the proposed settlement because they are not part of the consolidated class action: (1) physical bodily injurythis matter.
Other Claims and wrongful death; (2) insurance subrogation, whether equitable, contractual or otherwise; and (3) claims arising out of appliances that are subject to the Massachusetts DPU orders. Emotional distress and similar claims are covered under the proposed settlement unless they are secondary to a physical bodily injury. The settlement class is defined under the term sheet as all persons and businesses in the three municipalities of Lawrence, Andover and North Andover, Massachusetts, subject to certain limited exceptions. The motion for preliminary approval and the settlement documents were filed on September 25, 2019. The preliminary approval court hearing was held on October 7, 2019 and the court issued an order granting preliminary approval of the settlement on October 11, 2019. The proposed settlement is subject to final court approval, and a hearing occurred on February 27, 2020. The court took the matter under advisement.
Many residents and business owners have submitted individual damage claims to Columbia of Massachusetts. Most of the wrongful death and bodily injury claims that have been asserted have been settled, and we continue to discuss potential settlements with plaintiffs asserting such claims. In addition, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts is seeking reimbursement from Columbia of Massachusetts for its expenses incurred in connection with the Greater Lawrence Incident. The outcomes and impacts of such private actions are uncertain at this time.
Financial Impact.Proceedings. Since the Greater Lawrence Incident, we have recorded expenses of approximately $1,041 million for third-party claims and fines, penalties and settlements associated with government investigations. We estimate that total costs related to third-party claims and fines, penalties and settlements associated with government investigations resulting from the incident will range from $1,041 million to $1,065 million, depending on the number, nature, final outcome and value of third-party claims and the final outcome of government investigations. With regard to third-party claims, these costs include, but are not limited to, personal injury and property damage claims, damage to infrastructure, business interruption claims, and mutual aid payments to other utilities assisting with the restoration effort. These costs do not include costs of certain third-party claims and fines, penalties or settlements associated with government investigations that we are not able to estimate, nor do they include non-claims related and government investigation-related legal expenses resulting from the incident and the capital cost of the pipeline replacement, which are set forth in " - E. Other Matters - Greater Lawrence Incident Restoration" and "- Greater Lawrence Incident Pipeline Replacement," respectively, below.
The process for estimating costs associated with third-party claims and fines, penalties, and settlements associated with government investigations relating to the Greater Lawrence Incident requires management to exercise significant judgment based on a number of assumptions and subjective factors. As more information becomes known, including additional information regarding ongoing investigations, management’s estimates and assumptions regarding the financial impact of the Greater Lawrence Incident may change.
The aggregate amount of third-party liability insurance coverage available for losses arising from the Greater Lawrence Incident is $800 million. We have collected the entire $800 million as of December 31, 2019. Total expenses related to the incident have exceeded the total amount of insurance coverage available under our policies. Refer to "- E. Other Matters - Greater Lawrence Incident Restoration," below for a summary of third-party claims-related expense activity and associated insurance recoveries recorded since the Greater Lawrence Incident.
We are also party to certain other claims, regulatory and legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business in each state in which we have operations, none of which is deemedwe believe to be individually material at this time.
Due to the inherent uncertainty of litigation, there can be no assurance that the resolution of any particular claim, proceeding or investigation related to the Greater Lawrence Incident or otherwise would not have a material adverse effect on our results of
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
operations, financial position or liquidity. Certain matters in connection with the Greater Lawrence Incident have had or may have a material impact as described above. If one or more of such additional or other matters were decided against us, the effects could be material to our results of operations in the period in which we would be required to record or adjust the related liability and could also be material to our cash flows in the periods that we would be required to pay such liability.
D. Other Greater Lawrence Incident Matters. In connection with the Greater Lawrence Incident, Columbia of Massachusetts, in cooperation with the Massachusetts Governor’s office, replaced the entire affected pipeline system. We invested approximately $258 million of capital spend for the pipeline replacement; this work was completed in 2019. We maintain property insurance for gas pipelines and other applicable property. Columbia of Massachusetts filed a proof of loss with its property insurer for the pipeline replacement. In January 2020, we filed a lawsuit against the property insurer, seeking payment of our property claim. On October 27, 2021, NiSource and the property insurer filed cross motions for summary judgment, each asking the court to determine whether there was coverage under the policy. After the cross motions for summary judgment were fully briefed, we reached an agreement to settle the coverage dispute for $105.0 million. After settlement payment was made, NiSource and its property insurer stipulated to the dismissal of the lawsuit on March 16, 2022.
E. Environmental Matters. Our operations are subject to environmental statutes and regulations related to air quality, water quality, hazardous waste and solid waste. We believe that we are in substantial compliance with the environmental regulations currently applicable to our operations.
It is management's continued intent to address environmental issues in cooperation with regulatory authorities in such a manner as to achieve mutually acceptable compliance plans. However, there can be no assurance that fines and penalties will not be incurred. Management expects a significant portionthe majority of environmental assessment improvement and remediation costs and asset retirement costs, further described below, to be recoverable through ratesrates. See Note 9, "Regulatory Matters," for certain of our companies.additional detail.
As of December 31, 20192022 and 2018,2021, we had recorded a liability of $104.4$86.5 million and $101.2$91.1 million, respectively, to cover environmental remediation at various sites. The current portion of thisThis liability is included in "Legal"Other accruals" and environmental""Other noncurrent liabilities" in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The noncurrent portion is included in "Other noncurrent liabilities." We recognize costs associated with environmental remediation obligations when the incurrence of such costs is probable and the amounts can be reasonably estimated. The original estimates for remediation activities may differ materially from the amount ultimately expended. The actual future expenditures depend on many factors, including currently enacted laws and regulations, the nature and extent of impact and the method of remediation. These expenditures are not currently estimable at some sites. We periodically adjust our liability as information is collected and estimates become more refined.
Electric Operations' compliance estimates disclosed below are reflective See Note 8, "Asset Retirement Obligations," for a discussion of NIPSCO's Integrated Resource Plan submitted to the IURC on October 31, 2018. See section " - E. Other Matters - NIPSCO 2018 Integrated Resource Plan," below for additional information.
Air
Future legislative and regulatory programs could significantly limit allowed GHG emissions or impose a cost or tax on GHG emissions. Additionally, rules that require further GHG reductions or impose additional requirements for natural gas facilities could impose additional costs. NiSource will carefully monitor all GHG reduction proposals and regulations.
ACE Rule.obligations, including those discussed below. On July 8, 2019, the EPA published the final ACE rule, which establishes emission guidelines for states to use when developing plans to limit carbon dioxide at coal-fired electric generating units based on heat rate improvement measures. The coal-fired units at NIPSCO’s R.M. Schahfer Generating Station and Michigan City Generating Station are potentially affected sources, and compliance requirements for these units which NIPSCO plans to retire by 2023 and 2028, respectively, will be determined by future Indiana rulemaking. The ACE rule notes that states have “broad flexibility in setting standards of performance for designated facilities” and that a state may set a “business as usual” standard for sources that have a remaining useful life “so short that imposing any costs on the electric generating unit is unreasonable.” State plans are due by 2022, and the EPA will have six months to determine completeness and then one additional year to determine whether to approve the submitted plan. States have the discretion to determine the compliance period for each source. As a result, NIPSCO will continue to monitor this matter and cannot estimate its impact at this time.
Waste
CERCLA. Our subsidiaries are potentially responsible parties at waste disposal sites under the CERCLA (commonly known as Superfund) and similar state laws. Under CERCLA, each potentially responsible party can be held jointly, severally and strictly liable for the remediation costs as the EPA, or state, can allow the parties to pay for remedial action or perform remedial action themselves and request reimbursement from the potentially responsible parties. Our affiliates have retained CERCLA environmental liabilities, including remediation liabilities, associated with certain current and former operations. These liabilities areAt this time, NIPSCO cannot estimate the full cost of remediating properties that have not yet been investigated, but it is possible that the future costs could be material to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
MGP. AWe maintain a program has been instituted to identify and investigate former MGP sites where Gas Distribution Operations subsidiaries or predecessors may have liability. The program has identified 6353 such sites where liability is probable. Remedial actions at many of these sites are being overseen by state or federal environmental agencies through consent agreements or voluntary remediation agreements.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
We utilize a probabilistic model to estimate our future remediation costs related to MGP sites. The model was prepared with the assistance of a third party and incorporates our experience and general industry experience with remediating MGP sites. We
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
complete an annual refresh of the model in the second quarter of each fiscal year. No material changes to the estimated future remediation costs were noted as a result of the refresh completed as of June 30, 2019.2022. Our total estimated liability related to the facilities subject to remediation was $102.2$81.0 million and $97.5$85.1 million at December 31, 20192022 and 2018,2021, respectively. The liability represents our best estimate of the probable cost to remediate the facilities.MGP sites. We believe that it is reasonably possible that remediation costs could vary by as much as $20$17 million in addition to the costs noted above. Remediation costs are estimated based on the best available information, applicable remediation standards at the balance sheet date, and experience with similar facilities.
CCRs. On April 17, 2015,We continue to meet the EPA issued acompliance requirements established in the EPA's final rule for the regulation of CCRs. The rule regulates CCRs under the RCRA Subtitle D, which determines them to be nonhazardous. The rule is implemented in phases and requires increased groundwater monitoring, reporting, recordkeeping and posting of related information to the Internet. The rule also establishes requirements related to CCR management and disposal. The rule will allow NIPSCO to continue its byproduct beneficial use program.
To comply with the rule, NIPSCO completed capital expenditures to modify its infrastructure and manage CCRs during 2019. The CCR rule also resulted in revisions to previously recorded legal obligations associated with the retirement of certain NIPSCO facilities. The actual asset retirement costs related to the CCR rule may vary substantially from the estimates used to record the increased asset retirement obligation due to the uncertainty about the requirements that will be established by environmental authorities, compliance strategies that will be used and the preliminary nature of available data used to estimate costs. As allowed by the rule, NIPSCO will continue to collect data over time to determine the specific compliance solutions and associated costs and, as a result, the actual costs may vary. NIPSCO has filed initial CCR closure plans for R.M. Schahfer Generating Station and Michigan City Generating Station with the Indiana Department of Environmental Management.
Water
F. Other Matters
ELG. On November 3, 2015, the EPA issued a final rule to amend the ELG and standards for the Steam Electric Power Generating category. Based upon a study performed in 2016 of the final rule, capital compliance costs were expected to be approximately $170.0 million. The EPA has proposed revisions to the final rule, and public comments were due on January 21, 2020. NIPSCO does not anticipate material ELG compliance costs based on the preferred option announced as part of NIPSCO's 2018 Integrated Resource Plan (discussed below).
E. Other Matters.
NIPSCO 2018 Integrated Resource Plan.Generation Transition. Multiple factors, but primarily economic ones, including low natural gas prices, advancing cost effective renewable technology and increasing capital and operating costs associated with existing coal plants, have led NIPSCO to conclude in its October 2018 Integrated Resource Plan submission that NIPSCO’s current fleet of coal generation facilities will be retired earlier than previous Integrated Resource Plans had indicated.
The Integrated Resource Plan evaluated demand-side and supply-side resource alternatives to reliably and cost effectively meet NIPSCO customers' future energy requirements over the ensuing 20 years. The preferred option within the Integrated Resource Plan retires R.M. Schahfer Generating Station (Units 14, 15, 17, and 18) by 2023 and Michigan City Generating Station (Unit 12) by 2028. These units represent 2,080 MW of generating capacity, equal to 72% of NIPSCO’s remaining generating capacity (and 100% of NIPSCO's remaining coal-fired generating capacity) after the retirement of Bailly Units 7 and 8 on May 31, 2018.
The current replacement plan includes renewable sources of energy, including wind, solar, and battery storage to be obtained through a combination of NIPSCO ownership and PPAs.
In January 2019, NIPSCOhas executed two 20 yearseveral PPAs to purchase 100% of the output from renewable generation facilities at a fixed price per MWh. NIPSCO submittedEach facility supplying the PPAs to the IURC for approval in February 2019energy will have an associated nameplate capacity, and the IURC approved the PPAs on June 5, 2019. Paymentspayments under the PPAs will not begin until the associated generation facilities arefacility is constructed by the owner / seller which is currently scheduled to be complete by the end of 2020 for one facility.owner/seller. NIPSCO has filed a noticealso executed several BTAs with the IURC of its intention not to move forward with one of its approved PPAs due to the failure to meet a condition precedent in the agreement as a result of local zoning restrictions.
Also in January 2019, NIPSCO executed a BTA with a developerdevelopers to construct a renewable generation facility with a nameplate capacity of approximately 100 MW. Once complete, ownership of the facility would be transferred to a joint venture owned by NIPSCO, the developer and an unrelated tax equity partner. The aforementioned joint venture is expected to be fully owned by NIPSCO after the PTC are monetized from the project (approximately 10 years after the facility goes into service).facilities. NIPSCO's purchase requirementobligation under theeach respective BTA is dependent on satisfactory approval of the BTA by the IURC, successful execution by NIPSCO of an agreement with a tax equity partner and timely completion of construction. NIPSCO submittedhas received IURC approval for all of its BTAs and PPAs. NIPSCO and the tax equity partner, for each respective BTA, are obligated to make cash contributions to the IURCJV that acquires the project at the date construction is substantially complete. Certain agreements require NIPSCO to make partial payments upon the developer's completion of significant construction milestones. Once the tax equity partner has earned its negotiated rate of return and we have reached the agreed upon contractual date, NIPSCO has the option to purchase at fair market value the remaining interest in the JV from the tax equity partner.
Employee Separation Benefits. In the third quarter of 2020, we launched a program to evaluate our organizational structure under the auspices of NiSource Next, which continued into 2021. We recognized the majority of the related severance expense in 2020 when the employees accepted severance offers, absent a retention period. For employees that have a retention period, expense will be recognized over the remaining service period. The total severance expense for approval
employees was approximately $38 million, with substantially all of it incurred and paid to date.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
in February 2019 and the IURC approved the BTA on August 7, 2019. Required FERC filings occurred after receiving the IURC order and the related approvals were received. Construction of the facility is expected to be completed by the end of 2020.
On October 1, 2019, NIPSCO announced the opening of its next round of RFP to consider potential resources to meet the future electric needs of its customers. The RFP closed on November 20, 2019, and NIPSCO continues to evaluate the results. NIPSCO is considering all sources in the RFP process.
In October 2019, NIPSCO executed a BTA with a developer to construct an additional renewable generation facility with a nameplate capacity of approximately 300 MW. Once complete, ownership of the facility would be transferred to a joint venture owned by NIPSCO, the developer and an unrelated tax equity partner. The aforementioned joint venture is expected to be fully owned by NIPSCO after the PTC are monetized from the project (approximately 10 years after the facility goes into service). NIPSCO's purchase requirement under the BTA is dependent on satisfactory approval of the BTA by the IURC, successful execution of an agreement with a tax equity partner, and timely completion of construction. NIPSCO submitted the BTA to the IURC for approval on October 22, 2019, and the IURC approved the BTA on February 19, 2020. Required FERC filings are expected to be filed by the end of June 2020. Construction of the facility is expected to be completed by the end of 2021.
Greater Lawrence Incident Restoration. In addition to the amounts estimated for third-party claims and fines, penalties and settlements associated with government investigations described above, since the Greater Lawrence Incident, we have recorded expenses of approximately $420 million for other incident-related costs. We estimate that total other incident-related costs will range from $450 million to $460 million, depending on the incurrence of costs associated with resolving outstanding inquiries and investigations discuss above in " - C. Legal Proceedings." Such costs include certain consulting costs, legal costs, vendor costs, claims center costs, labor and related expenses incurred in connection with the incident, and insurance-related loss surcharges. The amounts set forth above do not include the capital cost of the pipeline replacement, which is set forth below, or any estimates for fines and penalties, which are discussed above in " - C. Legal Proceedings."
As discussed in "- C. Legal Proceedings," the aggregate amount of third-party liability insurance coverage available for losses arising from the Greater Lawrence Incident is $800 million. We have collected the entire $800 million as of December 31, 2019. Expenses related to the incident have exceeded the total amount of insurance coverage available under our policies.
The following table summarizes expenses incurred and insurance recoveries recorded since the Greater Lawrence Incident. This activity is presented within "Operation and maintenance" and "Other, net" in our Statements of Consolidated Income (Loss).
|
| | | | | | | | | | |
| Year Ended | | Year Ended | |
(in millions) | December 31, 2018 | | December 31, 2019 | Incident to Date |
Third-party claims and government fines, penalties and settlements | $ | 757 |
| | $ | 284 |
| $ | 1,041 |
|
Other incident-related costs | 266 |
| | 154 |
| 420 |
|
Total | 1,023 |
| | 438 |
| 1,461 |
|
Insurance recoveries recorded | (135 | ) | | (665 | ) | (800 | ) |
Loss (benefit) to income before income taxes | $ | 888 |
| | $ | (227 | ) | $ | 661 |
|
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
The following table presents activity related to our Greater Lawrence Incident insurance recovery, which we have recovered in full as of December 31, 2019.
|
| | | |
(in millions) | Insurance receivable(1) |
Balance, December 31, 2018 | $ | 130 |
|
Insurance recoveries recorded in first quarter of 2019 | 100 |
|
Cash collected from insurance recoveries in the first quarter of 2019 | (108 | ) |
Balance, March 31, 2019 | 122 |
|
Insurance recoveries recorded in the second quarter of 2019 | 435 |
|
Cash collected from insurance recoveries in the second quarter of 2019 | (297 | ) |
Balance, June 30, 2019 | $ | 260 |
|
Insurance recoveries recorded in third quarter of 2019 | — |
|
Cash collected from insurance recoveries in the third quarter of 2019 | (260 | ) |
Balance, September 30, 2019 | $ | — |
|
Insurance recoveries recorded in the fourth quarter of 2019 | 130 |
|
Cash collected from insurance recoveries in the fourth quarter of 2019 | (130 | ) |
Balance, December 31, 2019 | $ | — |
|
(1)$5 million of insurance recoveries were collected during 2018.
Greater Lawrence Pipeline Replacement. In connection with the Greater Lawrence Incident, Columbia of Massachusetts, in cooperation with the Massachusetts Governor’s office, replaced the entire affected 45-mile cast iron and bare steel pipeline system that delivers gas to approximately 7,500 gas meters, the majority of which serve residences and approximately 700 of which serve businesses impacted in the Greater Lawrence Incident. This system was replaced with plastic distribution mains and service lines, as well as enhanced safety features such as pressure regulation and excess flow valves at each premise.
Since the Greater Lawrence Incident and through December 31, 2019, we have invested approximately $258 million of capital spend for the pipeline replacement; this work was completed in 2019. We maintain property insurance for gas pipelines and other applicable property. Columbia of Massachusetts has filed a proof of loss with its property insurer for the full cost of the pipeline replacement. In January 2020, we filed a lawsuit against the property insurer, seeking payment of our property claim. We are currently unable to predict the timing or amount of any insurance recovery under the property policy. The recovery of any capital investment not reimbursed through insurance will be addressed in a future regulatory proceeding; a future regulatory proceeding is dependent on the outcome of the sale of the Massachusetts Business. The outcome of such a proceeding (if any) is uncertain. In accordance with ASC 980-360, if it becomes probable that a portion of the pipeline replacement cost will not be recoverable through customer rates and an amount can be reasonably estimated, we will reduce our regulated plant balance for the amount of the probable disallowance and record an associated charge to earnings. This could result in a material adverse effect to our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Additionally, if a rate order is received allowing recovery of the investment with no or reduced return on investment, a loss on disallowance may be required.
State Income Taxes Related to Greater Lawrence Incident Expenses. As of December 31, 2018, expenses related to the Greater Lawrence Incident were $1,023 million. In the fourth quarter of 2019, we filed an application for Alternative Apportionment with the MA DOR to request an allocable approach to these expenses for purposes of Massachusetts state income taxes, which, if approved, would result in a state deferred tax asset of approximately $50 million, net. The MA DOR is expected to review the application within nine months from the date of filing, and we believe it is reasonably possible that the application will be accepted, or an alternative method proposed.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
20. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
The following table displays the activity of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss, net of tax:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(in millions) | Gains and Losses on Securities(1) | | Gains and Losses on Cash Flow Hedges(1) | | Pension and OPEB Items(1) | | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss(1) |
Balance as of January 1, 2017 | $ | (0.6 | ) | | $ | (6.9 | ) | | $ | (17.6 | ) | | $ | (25.1 | ) |
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications | 0.6 |
| | (24.2 | ) | | 1.9 |
| | (21.7 | ) |
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss | 0.2 |
| | 1.7 |
| | 1.5 |
| | 3.4 |
|
Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss) | 0.8 |
| | (22.5 | ) | | 3.4 |
| | (18.3 | ) |
Balance as of December 31, 2017 | $ | 0.2 |
| | $ | (29.4 | ) | | $ | (14.2 | ) | | $ | (43.4 | ) |
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications | (3.0 | ) | | 55.8 |
| | (4.4 | ) | | 48.4 |
|
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss | 0.4 |
| | (33.1 | ) | | — |
| | (32.7 | ) |
Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss) | (2.6 | ) | | 22.7 |
| | (4.4 | ) | | 15.7 |
|
Reclassification due to adoption of ASU 2018-02 | — |
| | (6.3 | ) | | (3.2 | ) | | (9.5 | ) |
Balance as of December 31, 2018 | $ | (2.4 | ) | | $ | (13.0 | ) | | $ | (21.8 | ) | | $ | (37.2 | ) |
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications | 6.1 |
| | (64.3 | ) | | 2.3 |
| | (55.9 | ) |
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss | (0.4 | ) | | 0.1 |
| | 0.8 |
| | 0.5 |
|
Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss) | 5.7 |
| | (64.2 | ) | | 3.1 |
| | (55.4 | ) |
Balance as of December 31, 2019 | $ | 3.3 |
| | $ | (77.2 | ) | | $ | (18.7 | ) | | $ | (92.6 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(in millions) | Gains and Losses on Securities(1) | | Gains and Losses on Cash Flow Hedges(1) | | Pension and OPEB Items(1) | | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss(1) |
Balance as of January 1, 2020 | $ | 3.3 | | | $ | (77.2) | | | $ | (18.7) | | | $ | (92.6) | |
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications | 3.3 | | | (70.8) | | | 2.9 | | | (64.6) | |
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss | (0.6) | | | 0.1 | | | 1.0 | | | 0.5 | |
Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss) | 2.7 | | | (70.7) | | | 3.9 | | | (64.1) | |
| | | | | | | |
Balance as of December 31, 2020 | $ | 6.0 | | | $ | (147.9) | | | $ | (14.8) | | | $ | (156.7) | |
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications | (3.5) | | | 25.3 | | | 6.6 | | | 28.4 | |
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss | (0.4) | | | 0.1 | | | 1.8 | | | 1.5 | |
Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss) | (3.9) | | | 25.4 | | | 8.4 | | | 29.9 | |
Balance as of December 31, 2021 | $ | 2.1 | | | $ | (122.5) | | | $ | (6.4) | | | $ | (126.8) | |
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications | (13.7) | | | 109.7 | | | (8.9) | | | 87.1 | |
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss | 0.4 | | | 0.2 | | | 2.0 | | | 2.6 | |
Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss) | (13.3) | | | 109.9 | | | (6.9) | | | 89.7 | |
| | | | | | | |
Balance as of December 31, 2022 | $ | (11.2) | | | $ | (12.6) | | | $ | (13.3) | | | $ | (37.1) | |
(1)All amounts are net of tax. Amounts in parentheses indicate debits.
21. Other, Net
|
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Year Ended December 31, (in millions) | 2019 | | 2018 | | 2017 |
Interest income | $ | 7.7 |
| | $ | 6.6 |
| | $ | 4.6 |
|
AFUDC equity | 8.0 |
| | 14.2 |
| | 12.6 |
|
Charitable contributions(1) | (5.1 | ) | | (45.3 | ) | | (19.9 | ) |
Pension and other postretirement non-service cost(2) | (16.5 | ) | | 18.0 |
| | (10.6 | ) |
Interest rate swap settlement gain(3) | — |
| | 46.2 |
| | — |
|
Miscellaneous | 0.7 |
| | 3.8 |
| | (0.2 | ) |
Total Other, net | $ | (5.2 | ) | | $ | 43.5 |
| | $ | (13.5 | ) |
(1) 2018 charitable contributions include $20.7 million related to the Greater Lawrence Incident and $20.0 million of discretionary contributions made to the Nisource Charitable Foundation. See Note 19, "Other Commitments and Contingencies" for additional information on the Greater Lawrence Incident.
(2) See Note 11, "Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits" for additional information.
(3) See Note 9, "Risk Management Activities" for additional information.
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
22. Interest Expense, Net
|
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Year Ended December 31, (in millions) | 2019 | | 2018 | | 2017 |
Interest on long-term debt | $ | 327.7 |
| | $ | 342.2 |
| | $ | 354.8 |
|
Interest on short-term borrowings | 50.8 |
| | 31.8 |
| | 14.9 |
|
Debt discount/cost amortization | 8.3 |
| | 7.7 |
| | 7.2 |
|
Accounts receivable securitization fees | 2.6 |
| | 2.6 |
| | 2.5 |
|
Allowance for borrowed funds used and interest capitalized during construction | (7.5 | ) | | (9.1 | ) | | (6.2 | ) |
Debt-based post-in-service carrying charges | (18.7 | ) | | (35.0 | ) | | (36.4 | ) |
Other | 15.7 |
| | 13.1 |
| | 16.4 |
|
Total Interest Expense, net | $ | 378.9 |
| | $ | 353.3 |
| | $ | 353.2 |
|
23. Segments of Business Segment Information
At December 31, 2019,2022, our operations are divided into 2two primary reportable segments. Thesegments, the Gas Distribution Operations segment provides natural gas service and transportation for residential, commercial and industrial customers in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Kentucky, Maryland, Indiana and Massachusetts. Thethe Electric Operations segments. The remainder of our operations, which are not significant enough on a stand-alone basis to warrant treatment as an operating segment, provides electric service in 20 counties in the northern partare presented as "Corporate and Other" and primarily are comprised of Indiana.
interest expense on holding company debt and unallocated corporate costs and activities. Refer to Note 3, "Revenue Recognition," for additional information on our segments and their sources of revenues. The following table provides information about our reportable segments. We use operating income as our primary measurement for each of the reported segments and make decisions on finance, dividends and taxes at the corporate level on a consolidated basis. Segment revenues include intersegment sales to affiliated subsidiaries, which are eliminated in consolidation. Affiliated sales are recognized on the basis of prevailing market, regulated prices or at levels provided for under contractual agreements. Operating income is derived from revenues and expenses directly associated with each segment.
|
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Year Ended December 31, (in millions) | 2019 | | 2018 | | 2017 |
Operating Revenues | | | | | |
Gas Distribution Operations | | | | | |
Unaffiliated | $ | 3,509.7 |
| | $ | 3,406.4 |
| | $ | 3,087.9 |
|
Intersegment | 13.1 |
| | 13.1 |
| | 14.2 |
|
Total | 3,522.8 |
| | 3,419.5 |
| | 3,102.1 |
|
Electric Operations | | | | | |
Unaffiliated | 1,698.4 |
| | 1,707.4 |
| | 1,785.7 |
|
Intersegment | 0.8 |
| | 0.8 |
| | 0.8 |
|
Total | 1,699.2 |
| | 1,708.2 |
| | 1,786.5 |
|
Corporate and Other | | | | | |
Unaffiliated | 0.8 |
| | 0.7 |
| | 1.0 |
|
Intersegment | 468.1 |
| | 517.6 |
| | 510.8 |
|
Total | 468.9 |
| | 518.3 |
| | 511.8 |
|
Eliminations | (482.0 | ) | | (531.5 | ) | | (525.8 | ) |
Consolidated Operating Revenues | $ | 5,208.9 |
| | $ | 5,114.5 |
| | $ | 4,874.6 |
|
114
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Year Ended December 31, (in millions) | 2022 | | 2021 | | 2020 |
Operating Revenues | | | | | |
Gas Distribution Operations | | | | | |
Unaffiliated | $ | 4,007.2 | | | $ | 3,171.2 | | | $ | 3,128.1 | |
Intersegment | 12.6 | | | 12.3 | | | 12.1 | |
Total | 4,019.8 | | | 3,183.5 | | | 3,140.2 | |
Electric Operations | | | | | |
Unaffiliated | 1,830.9 | | | 1,696.3 | | | 1,535.9 | |
Intersegment | 0.8 | | | 0.8 | | | 0.7 | |
Total | 1,831.7 | | | 1,697.1 | | | 1,536.6 | |
Corporate and Other | | | | | |
Unaffiliated | 12.5 | | | 32.1 | | | 17.7 | |
Intersegment | 465.0 | | | 460.3 | | | 449.8 | |
Total | 477.5 | | | 492.4 | | | 467.5 | |
Eliminations | (478.4) | | | (473.4) | | | (462.6) | |
Consolidated Operating Revenues | $ | 5,850.6 | | | $ | 4,899.6 | | | $ | 4,681.7 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Year Ended December 31, (in millions) | 2022 | | 2021 | | 2020 |
Operating Income (Loss) | | | | | |
Gas Distribution Operations(1) | $ | 915.8 | | | $ | 617.5 | | | $ | 199.1 | |
Electric Operations | 362.4 | | | 387.8 | | | 348.8 | |
Corporate and Other | (12.4) | | | 1.6 | | | 2.9 | |
Consolidated Operating Income | $ | 1,265.8 | | | $ | 1,006.9 | | | $ | 550.8 | |
Depreciation and Amortization | | | | | |
Gas Distribution Operations | $ | 415.9 | | | $ | 383.0 | | | $ | 363.1 | |
Electric Operations | 362.9 | | | 329.4 | | | 321.3 | |
Corporate and Other | 42.0 | | | 36.0 | | | 41.5 | |
Consolidated Depreciation and Amortization | $ | 820.8 | | | $ | 748.4 | | | $ | 725.9 | |
Assets | | | | | |
Gas Distribution Operations | $ | 16,986.5 | | | $ | 15,153.7 | | | $ | 13,433.0 | |
Electric Operations | 7,992.6 | | | 7,178.9 | | | 6,443.1 | |
Corporate and Other | 1,757.5 | | | 1,824.3 | | | 2,164.4 | |
Consolidated Assets | $ | 26,736.6 | | | $ | 24,156.9 | | | $ | 22,040.5 | |
Capital Expenditures(2) | | | | | |
Gas Distribution Operations | $ | 1,682.3 | | | $ | 1,406.4 | | | $ | 1,266.9 | |
Electric Operations | 574.5 | | | 517.4 | | | 422.8 | |
Corporate and Other | 41.2 | | | 16.6 | | | 31.1 | |
Consolidated Capital Expenditures | $ | 2,298.0 | | | $ | 1,940.4 | | | $ | 1,720.8 | |
|
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Year Ended December 31, (in millions) | 2019 | | 2018 | | 2017 |
Operating Income (Loss) | | | | | |
Gas Distribution Operations | $ | 675.4 |
| | $ | (254.1 | ) | | $ | 550.1 |
|
Electric Operations | 406.8 |
| | 386.1 |
| | 367.4 |
|
Corporate and Other(2) | (191.5 | ) | | (7.3 | ) | | 3.7 |
|
Consolidated Operating Income | $ | 890.7 |
| | $ | 124.7 |
| | $ | 921.2 |
|
Depreciation and Amortization | | | | | |
Gas Distribution Operations | $ | 403.2 |
| | $ | 301.0 |
| | $ | 269.3 |
|
Electric Operations | 277.3 |
| | 262.9 |
| | 277.8 |
|
Corporate and Other | 36.9 |
| | 35.7 |
| | 23.2 |
|
Consolidated Depreciation and Amortization | $ | 717.4 |
| | $ | 599.6 |
| | $ | 570.3 |
|
Assets | | | | | |
Gas Distribution Operations | $ | 14,224.5 |
| | $ | 13,527.0 |
| | $ | 12,048.8 |
|
Electric Operations | 6,027.6 |
| | 5,735.2 |
| | 5,478.6 |
|
Corporate and Other | 2,407.7 |
| | 2,541.8 |
| | 2,434.3 |
|
Consolidated Assets | $ | 22,659.8 |
| | $ | 21,804.0 |
| | $ | 19,961.7 |
|
Capital Expenditures(1) | | | | | |
Gas Distribution Operations | $ | 1,380.3 |
| | $ | 1,315.3 |
| | $ | 1,125.6 |
|
Electric Operations | 468.9 |
| | 499.3 |
| | 592.4 |
|
Corporate and Other | 18.6 |
| | — |
| | 35.8 |
|
Consolidated Capital Expenditures | $ | 1,867.8 |
|
| $ | 1,814.6 |
| | $ | 1,753.8 |
|
(1)In 2020, Gas Distribution Operations reflects the loss of $412.4 millionon the sale of the Massachusetts Business.(1)(2)Amounts differ from those presented on the Statements of Consolidated Cash Flows primarily due to the inclusion of capital expenditures included in current liabilities, the capitalized portion of the Corporate Incentive Plan payout, and AFUDC Equity.
(2) In 2019, Corporate and Other reflects an impairment charge of $204.8 million for goodwill related to Columbia of Massachusetts. For additional information, see Note 6, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets."
NISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
22. Other, Net
24. Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)
Quarterly financial data does not always revealThe following table displays the trend of our business operations due to nonrecurring items and seasonal weather patterns, which affect earnings and related components of revenue and operating income.
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
(in millions, except per share data) | First Quarter(1) | | Second Quarter(2) | | Third Quarter(3) | | Fourth Quarter(4) |
2019 | | | | | | | |
Operating Revenues | $ | 1,869.8 |
| | $ | 1,010.4 |
| | $ | 931.5 |
| | $ | 1,397.2 |
|
Operating Income (Loss) | 374.2 |
| | 463.5 |
| | 91.0 |
| | (38.0 | ) |
Net Income (Loss) | 218.9 |
| | 296.9 |
| | 6.6 |
| | (139.3 | ) |
Preferred Dividends | (13.8 | ) | | (13.8 | ) | | (13.8 | ) | | (13.7 | ) |
Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Shareholders | 205.1 |
| | 283.1 |
| | (7.2 | ) | | (153.0 | ) |
Earnings (Loss) Per Share | | | | | | | |
Basic Earnings (Loss) Per Share | $ | 0.55 |
| | $ | 0.76 |
| | $ | (0.02 | ) | | $ | (0.41 | ) |
Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Share | $ | 0.55 |
| | $ | 0.75 |
| | $ | (0.02 | ) | | $ | (0.41 | ) |
2018 | | | | | | | |
Operating Revenues | $ | 1,750.8 |
| | $ | 1,007.0 |
| | $ | 895.0 |
| | $ | 1,461.7 |
|
Operating Income (Loss) | 400.6 |
| | 118.4 |
| | (315.9 | ) | | (78.4 | ) |
Net Income (Loss) | 276.1 |
| | 24.5 |
| | (339.5 | ) | | (11.7 | ) |
Preferred Dividends | — |
| | (1.3 | ) | | (5.6 | ) | | (8.1 | ) |
Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Shareholders | 276.1 |
| | 23.2 |
| | (345.1 | ) | | (19.8 | ) |
Earnings (Loss) Per Share | | | | | | | |
Basic Earnings (Loss) Per Share | $ | 0.82 |
| | $ | 0.07 |
| | $ | (0.95 | ) | | $ | (0.05 | ) |
Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Share | $ | 0.81 |
| | $ | 0.07 |
| | $ | (0.95 | ) | | $ | (0.05 | ) |
Other, Net included on the
Statements of Consolidated Income (Loss): | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Year Ended December 31, (in millions) | 2022 | | 2021 | | 2020 |
Interest income | $ | 4.3 | | | $ | 4.0 | | | $ | 5.5 | |
AFUDC equity | 15.1 | | | 13.1 | | | 9.9 | |
Charitable contributions | (4.4) | | | (11.5) | | | (1.5) | |
Pension and other postretirement non-service cost(1) | 27.6 | | | 35.5 | | | 9.3 | |
Sale of emission reduction credits | — | | | — | | | 4.6 | |
Interest rate swap settlement gain(2) | 10.0 | | | — | | | — | |
Miscellaneous | (0.4) | | | (0.3) | | | 4.3 | |
Total Other, net | $ | 52.2 | | | $ | 40.8 | | | $ | 32.1 | |
(1) Net income for the first quarter of 2019 was impacted by $108.0 million in insurance recoveries (pretax) related to the Greater Lawrence Incident. See Note 19-E, "Other Matters"12, "Pension and Other Postemployment Benefits," for additional information.
(2)Net income for the second quarter of 2019 was impacted by $297.0 million in insurance recoveries (pretax) related to the Greater Lawrence Incident. See Note 19-E, "Other Matters"10, "Risk Management Activities," for additional information.
23. Interest Expense, Net
(3) The following table displays the components of Interest Expense, Net included on theNet loss for the third quarterStatements of 2018 was impacted by approximately $462 million in expenses (pretax) related to the Greater Lawrence Incident restoration and a $33.0 million loss (pretax) on an early extinguishmentConsolidated Income (Loss):
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Year Ended December 31, (in millions) | 2022 | | 2021 | | 2020 |
Interest on long-term debt | $ | 344.5 | | | $ | 336.4 | | | $ | 354.2 | |
Interest on short-term borrowings | 22.7 | | | 0.6 | | | 14.7 | |
Debt discount/cost amortization | 11.7 | | | 11.0 | | | 9.1 | |
Accounts receivable securitization fees | 2.5 | | | 1.4 | | | 2.6 | |
Allowance for borrowed funds used and interest capitalized during construction | (6.7) | | | (4.6) | | | (7.0) | |
Debt-based post-in-service carrying charges | (21.1) | | | (14.7) | | | (14.6) | |
Other | 8.0 | | | 11.0 | | | 11.7 | |
Total Interest Expense, net | $ | 361.6 | | | $ | 341.1 | | | $ | 370.7 | |
(4) NNet loss for the fourth quarter of 2019 was impacted by an impairment charge of $204.8 million for goodwill and an impairment charge of $209.7 million for franchise rights, in each case related to Columbia of Massachusetts. For additional information, see Note 6, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets."ISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 25.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
24. Supplemental Cash Flow Information
The following table provides additional information regarding our Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2019, 20182022, 2021 and 2017:2020:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Year Ended December 31, (in millions) | 2019 | | 2018 | | 2017 |
Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Information | | | | | |
Non-cash transactions: | | | | | |
Capital expenditures included in current liabilities | $ | 223.6 |
| | $ | 152.0 |
| | $ | 173.0 |
|
Assets acquired under a finance lease | 26.4 |
| | 54.6 |
| | 11.5 |
|
Assets acquired under an operating lease | 13.4 |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Reclassification of other property to regulatory assets(1) | — |
| | 245.3 |
| | — |
|
Assets recorded for asset retirement obligations(2) | 54.6 |
| | 78.1 |
| | 11.4 |
|
Schedule of interest and income taxes paid: | | | | | |
Cash paid for interest, net of interest capitalized amounts | $ | 349.7 |
| | $ | 354.2 |
| | $ | 339.9 |
|
Cash paid for income taxes, net of refunds | 10.8 |
| | 3.3 |
| | 5.5 |
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Year Ended December 31, (in millions) | 2022 | | 2021 | | 2020 |
Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Information | | | | | |
Non-cash transactions: | | | | | |
Capital expenditures included in current liabilities | $ | 275.1 | | | $ | 245.7 | | | $ | 170.4 | |
Assets acquired under a finance lease | 19.3 | | | 22.4 | | | 59.3 | |
Assets acquired under an operating lease | 8.8 | | | 6.0 | | | 10.9 | |
Reclassification of other property to regulatory assets(1) | — | | | 607.6 | | | — | |
Assets recorded for asset retirement obligations(2) | 6.3 | | | 12.0 | | | 91.5 | |
Obligation to developer at formation of JV(3) | — | | | 277.5 | | | 69.7 | |
Purchase contract liability, net of fees and payments(4) | 65.0 | | | 129.4 | | | — | |
Schedule of interest and income taxes paid: | | | | | |
Cash paid for interest on long-term debt, net of interest capitalized amounts | $ | 343.8 | | | $ | 322.4 | | | $ | 349.0 | |
Cash paid for interest on finance leases | 8.5 | | | 9.4 | | | 11.1 | |
Cash paid for income taxes, net of refunds(5) | 7.2 | | | 5.4 | | | (1.0) | |
(1)See Note 89, "Regulatory Matters"Matters," for additional information.
(2)See Note 78, "Asset Retirement Obligations"Obligations," for additional information.
(3)Represents investing non-cash activity. See Note 4, "Variable Interest Entities," for additional information.
(4)Refer to Note 13, "Equity," for additional information.
(5)Amount of refunds in 2020 was greater than the amount of tax payments due to overpayments in 2019.
N
ISOURCE INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
26. Subsequent Event
On February 26, 2020, NiSource and Columbia of Massachusetts entered into the Asset Purchase Agreement with Eversource. Upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Asset Purchase Agreement, NiSource and Columbia of Massachusetts agreed to sell to Eversource, with certain additions and exceptions: (1) substantially all of the assets of Columbia of Massachusetts and (2) all of the assets held by any of Columbia of Massachusetts’ affiliates that primarily relate to the Massachusetts Business, and Eversource agreed to assume certain liabilities of Columbia of Massachusetts and its affiliates. The liabilities assumed by Eversource under the Asset Purchase Agreement do not include, among others, any liabilities arising out of the Greater Lawrence Incident or liabilities of Columbia of Massachusetts or its affiliates pursuant to civil claims for injury of persons or damage to property to the extent such injury or damage occurs prior to the closing in connection with the Massachusetts Business. The Asset Purchase Agreement provides for a purchase price of $1,100 million in cash, subject to adjustment based on Columbia of Massachusetts’ net working capital as of the closing. The closing of the transactions contemplated by the Asset Purchase Agreement is subject to Hart-Scott Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976 and regulatory approvals, resolution of certain proceedings before governmental bodies and other conditions. The Massachusetts Business did not meet the requirements under GAAP to be classified as held-for-sale as of December 31, 2019. When the Massachusetts Business meets the requirements to be classified as held-for-sale, in each period leading up to the closing date of the transaction, the assets and liabilities of the Massachusetts Business will be measured at fair value, less costs to sell. The final pre-tax gain or loss on the transaction will be determined as of the closing date. Assuming the Massachusetts Business is classified as held-for-sale at March 31, 2020, we estimate that the total pre-tax loss to be measured in the quarter ended March 31, 2020 will be approximately $360 million, based on December 31, 2019 asset and liability balances and estimated transaction costs. This estimated pre-tax loss is subject to change based on estimated transaction costs, working capital adjustments and asset and liability balances at each measurement date leading up to the closing date. The sale is expected to close by September 30, 2020, subject to closing conditions.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)
NISOURCE INC.
SCHEDULE II – VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
| Twelve months ended December 31, 2022 | | Twelve months ended December 31, 2022 |
| | | | | Additions | | |
($ in millions) | | ($ in millions) | Balance Jan. 1, 2022 | | Charged to Costs and Expenses | | Charged to Other Account (1) | | Deductions for Purposes for which Reserves were Created | | Balance Dec. 31, 2022 |
Reserves Deducted in Consolidated Balance Sheet from Assets to Which They Apply: | | Reserves Deducted in Consolidated Balance Sheet from Assets to Which They Apply: | |
Reserve for accounts receivable | | Reserve for accounts receivable | $ | 23.5 | | | $ | 20.6 | | | $ | 36.4 | | | $ | 56.6 | | | $ | 23.9 | |
| Reserve for deferred charges and other | | Reserve for deferred charges and other | 2.3 | | | — | | | (1.3) | | | — | | | 1.0 | |
| | Twelve months ended December 31, 2019 | |
| Twelve months ended December 31, 2021 | | Twelve months ended December 31, 2021 |
| | | | | Additions | | |
($ in millions) | | ($ in millions) | Balance Jan. 1, 2021 | | Charged to Costs and Expenses | | Charged to Other Account (1) | | Deductions for Purposes for which Reserves were Created | | Balance Dec. 31, 2021 |
Reserves Deducted in Consolidated Balance Sheet from Assets to Which They Apply: | | Reserves Deducted in Consolidated Balance Sheet from Assets to Which They Apply: | |
Reserve for accounts receivable | | Reserve for accounts receivable | $ | 52.3 | | | $ | 18.3 | | | $ | 6.4 | | | $ | 53.5 | | | $ | 23.5 | |
Reserve for deferred charges and other | | Reserve for deferred charges and other | — | | | — | | | 2.3 | | | — | | | 2.3 | |
| | Twelve months ended December 31, 2020 | | Twelve months ended December 31, 2020 |
| | | Additions | | | | | | | | Additions | | |
($ in millions) | Balance Jan. 1, 2019 | | Charged to Costs and Expenses | | Charged to Other Account (1) | | Deductions for Purposes for which Reserves were Created | | Balance Dec. 31, 2019 | ($ in millions) | Balance Jan. 1, 2020 | | Charged to Costs and Expenses | | Charged to Other Account (1) | | Deductions for Purposes for which Reserves were Created | | Balance Dec. 31, 2020 |
Reserves Deducted in Consolidated Balance Sheet from Assets to Which They Apply: | | | | | | | | | | Reserves Deducted in Consolidated Balance Sheet from Assets to Which They Apply: | |
Reserve for accounts receivable | $ | 21.1 |
| | $ | 21.6 |
| | $ | 41.3 |
| | $ | 64.8 |
| | $ | 19.2 |
| Reserve for accounts receivable | $ | 19.2 | | | $ | 31.6 | | | $ | 33.0 | | | $ | 31.5 | | | $ | 52.3 | |
Reserve for other investments | 3.0 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 3.0 |
| Reserve for other investments | 3.0 | | | — | | | — | | | 3.0 | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Twelve months ended December 31, 2018 | |
| | | Additions | | | | | |
($ in millions) | Balance Jan. 1, 2018 | | Charged to Costs and Expenses | | Charged to Other Account (1) | | Deductions for Purposes for which Reserves were Created | | Balance Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Reserves Deducted in Consolidated Balance Sheet from Assets to Which They Apply: | | | | | | | | | | |
Reserve for accounts receivable | $ | 18.3 |
| | $ | 20.2 |
| | $ | 43.7 |
| | $ | 61.1 |
| | $ | 21.1 |
| |
Reserve for other investments | 3.0 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 3.0 |
| |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Twelve months ended December 31, 2017 | |
| | | Additions | | | | | |
($ in millions) | Balance Jan. 1, 2017 | | Charged to Costs and Expenses | | Charged to Other Account (1) | | Deductions for Purposes for which Reserves were Created | | Balance Dec. 31, 2017 | |
Reserves Deducted in Consolidated Balance Sheet from Assets to Which They Apply: | | | | | | | | | | |
Reserve for accounts receivable | $ | 23.3 |
| | $ | 14.8 |
| | $ | 39.1 |
| | $ | 58.9 |
| | $ | 18.3 |
| |
Reserve for other investments | 3.0 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 3.0 |
| |
(1) Charged to Other Accounts reflects the deferral of bad debt expense to a regulatory asset.asset or the movement of the reserve between short term and long term.
NISOURCE INC.
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
None.
ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
Our chief executive officer and chief financial officer are responsible for evaluating the effectiveness of disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)). Our disclosure controls and procedures are designed to provide reasonable assurance that the information required to be disclosed by the Company in reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act are accumulated and communicated to management, including our chief executive officer and chief financial officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure and is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the rules and forms of the SEC. Based upon that evaluation, our chief executive officer and chief financial officer concluded that, as of the end of the period covered by this report, disclosure controls and procedures were effective to provide reasonable assurance that financial information was processed, recorded and reported accurately.
Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
Our management, including our chief executive officer and chief financial officer, are responsible for establishing and maintaining internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined under Rule 13a-15(f) or Rule 15d-15(f) promulgated under the Exchange Act. However, management would note that a control system can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the control system are met. Our management has adopted the 2013 framework set forth in the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission report, Internal Control - Integrated Framework, the most commonly used and understood framework for evaluating internal control over financial reporting, as its framework for evaluating the reliability and effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting. During 2019,2022, we conducted an evaluation of our internal control over financial reporting. Based on this evaluation, management concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of the end of the period covered by this annual report.
Deloitte & Touche LLP, our independent registered public accounting firm, issued an attestation report on our internal controls over financial reporting which is included herein.
Changes in Internal Controls
There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the most recently completed quarter covered by this report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
NISOURCE INC.
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the stockholdersshareholders and the Board of Directors of NiSource Inc.
Opinion on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of NiSource Inc. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2019,2022, based on criteria established in Internal Control -— Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019,2022, based on criteria established in Internal Control -— Integrated Framework (2013) issued by COSO.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2019,2022, of the Company and our report dated February 27, 2020,22, 2023, expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements.
Basis for Opinion
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's 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 are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. 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.
Definition and Limitations of Internal Control over Financial Reporting
A 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 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 its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
Columbus, Ohio
February 27, 202022, 2023
ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION
NISOURCE INC.
Not applicable.
ITEM 9C. DISCLOSURE REGARDING FOREIGN JURISDICTIONS THAT PREVENT INSPECTIONS
Not applicable.
PART III
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
Except for the information required by this item with respect to our executive officers included at the end of Part I of this report on Form 10-K, the information required by this Item 10 is incorporated herein by reference to the discussion in "Proposal 1 Election of Directors," "Corporate Governance - Board Committee Composition," "Corporate Governance - Code of Business Conduct," and "Corporate Governance""Delinquent Section 16(a) Reports" of the Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on May 19, 2020.23, 2023.
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The information required by this Item 11 is incorporated herein by reference to the discussion in "Corporate Governance - Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation," "Director"2022 Director Compensation," "Executive"2022 Executive Compensation," "Compensation Discussion and "Executive Compensation - CompensationAnalysis (CD&A)," and "Compensation and Human Capital Committee Report,"Report" of the Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on May 19, 2020.23, 2023.
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
The information required by this Item 12 is incorporated herein by reference to the discussion in "Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management"Management," and "Equity Compensation Plan Information" of the Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on May 19, 2020.23, 2023.
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE
The information required by this Item 13 is incorporated herein by reference to the discussion in "Corporate Governance - Policies and Procedures with Respect to Transactions with Related Persons" and "Corporate Governance - Director Independence" of the Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on May 19, 2020.23, 2023.
ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES
The information required by this Item 14 is incorporated herein by reference to the discussion in "Independent AuditorRegistered Public Accounting Firm Fees" of the Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on May 19, 2020.
23, 2023.
PART IV
NISOURCE INC.
ITEM 15. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
Financial Statements and Financial Statement Schedules
The following financial statements and financial statement schedules filed as a part of the Annual Report on Form 10-K are included in Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data."
Exhibits
The exhibits filed herewith as a part of this report on Form 10-K are listed on the Exhibit Index below. Each management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement of ours, listed on the Exhibit Index, is separately identified by an asterisk.
Pursuant to Item 601(b), paragraph (4)(iii)(A) of Regulation S-K, certain instruments representing long-term debt of our subsidiaries have not been included as Exhibits because such debt does not exceed 10% of the total assets of ours and our subsidiaries on a consolidated basis. We agree to furnish a copy of any such instrument to the SEC upon request.
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EXHIBIT NUMBER | DESCRIPTION OF ITEM |
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EXHIBIT
NUMBER
| DESCRIPTION OF ITEM |
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(1.1) |
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(1.2) |
|
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(2.1) | Separation and Distribution Agreement, dated as of June 30, 2015, by and between NiSource Inc. and Columbia Pipeline Group, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to the NiSource Inc. Form 8-K filed on July 2, 2015). |
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(2.2) | Asset Purchase Agreement, dated as of February 26, 2020, by and among NiSource Inc., Bay State Gas Company d/b/a Columbia Gas of Massachusetts and Eversource Energy (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 of the NiSource Inc. Form 8-K filed on February 27, 2020).*** (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.2 to the NiSource Inc. Form 10-K filed on February 17, 2021).
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(3.1) |
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(3.2) |
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(3.3) |
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(3.4) | Certificate of Designations of 5.65% Series A Fixed-Rate Reset Cumulative Redeemable Perpetual Preferred Stock (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of the NiSource Inc. Form 8-K filed on June 12, 2018).
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(3.5) | Form of Certificate of Designations of 6.50% Series B Fixed-Rate Reset Cumulative Redeemable Perpetual Preferred Stock (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of the NiSource Inc. Form 8-K filed on November 29, 2018).
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(3.6)(3.5) | Certificate of Designations of 6.50% Series B Fixed-Rate Reset Cumulative Redeemable Perpetual Preferred Stock (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of the NiSource Inc. Form 8-K filed on December 6, 2018).
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(3.7)(3.6) |
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(4.1)(3.7) | Certificate of Designations with respect to the Series C Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock, dated April 19, 2021 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of the NiSource Inc. Form 8-K filed on April 19, 2021). |
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(4.1) | Indenture, dated as of March 1, 1988, by and between Northern Indiana Public Service Company ("NIPSCO") and Manufacturers Hanover Trust Company, as Trustee (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4 to the NIPSCO Registration Statement (Registration No. 33-44193)). |
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(4.2) | First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of December 1, 1991, by and between Northern Indiana Public Service Company and Manufacturers Hanover Trust Company, as Trustee (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the NIPSCO Registration Statement (Registration No. 33-63870)). |
| |
(4.3) | Indenture Agreement, dated as of February 14, 1997, by and between NIPSCO Industries, Inc., NIPSCO Capital Markets, Inc. and Chase Manhattan Bank as trustee (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the NIPSCO Industries, Inc. Registration Statement (Registration No. 333-22347)). |
| |
(4.4) | Second Supplemental Indenture, dated as of November 1, 2000, by and among NiSource Capital Markets, Inc., NiSource Inc., New NiSource Inc., and The Chase Manhattan Bank, as trustee (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.45 to the NiSource Inc. Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 2000). |
| |
(4.5) | Indenture, dated November 14, 2000, among NiSource Finance Corp., NiSource Inc., as guarantor, and The Chase Manhattan Bank, as Trustee (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the NiSource Inc. Form S-3, dated November 17, 2000 (Registration No. 333-49330)). |
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(4.6) | |
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(4.7) | |
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(4.8) | |
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(4.9) | |
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(4.10) | |
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(4.11) | Third Supplemental Indenture, dated as of November 30, 2017, between NiSource Inc. and The Bank of New York Mellon, as trustee (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the NiSource Inc. Form 8-K filed on December 1, 2017). |
| |
(4.12) | Second Supplemental Indenture, dated as of February 12, 2018, between Northern Indiana Public Service Company and The Bank of New York Mellon, solely as successor trustee under the Indenture dated as of March 1, 1988 between the Company and Manufacturers Hanover Trust Company, as original trustee. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the NiSource Inc. Form 10-Q filed on May 2, 2018).
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(4.13) | Third Supplemental Indenture, dated as of June 11, 2018, by and between NiSource Inc. and The Bank of New York Mellon, as trustee (including form of 3.650% Notes due 2023) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 of the NiSource Inc. Form 8-K filed on June 12, 2018).
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(4.14) | Deposit Agreement, dated as of December 5, 2018, among NiSource, Inc., Computershare Inc. and Computershare Trust Company, N.A., acting jointly as depositary, and the holders from time to time of the depositary receipts described therein (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 of the NiSource Inc. Form 8-K filed on December 6, 2018).
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(4.15) |
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(4.16) | Amended and Restated Deposit Agreement, dated as of December 27, 2018, among NiSource, Inc., Computershare Inc. and Computershare Trust Company, N.A., acting jointly as depositary, and the holders from time to time of the depositary receipts described therein (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the NiSource Inc. Form 8-K filed on December 27, 2018).
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(4.17) |
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(4.18) |
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(4.19) |
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(4.20) |
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(4.21) | |
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(4.22) | |
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(4.23) | |
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(4.24) | Purchase Contract and Pledge Agreement, dated April 19, 2021, between NiSource Inc. and U.S. Bank National Association, in its capacity as the purchase contract agent, collateral agent, custodial agent and securities intermediary (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 of the NiSource Inc. Form 8-K filed on April 19, 2021). |
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(4.25) | |
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(4.26) | |
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(4.27) | |
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(4.28) | |
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(4.29) | |
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(10.1) | |
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(10.2) | |
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(10.3) | |
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(10.4) | |
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(10.5) | Form of Amended and Restated 2013 Performance Share Agreement effective on implementation of the spin-off on July 1, 2015, (under the 2010 Omnibus Incentive Plan)(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the NiSource Inc. Form 10-Q filed on November 3, 2015).* |
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(10.6) | Form of Amended and Restated 2014 Performance Share Agreement effective on the implementation of the spin-off on July 1, 2015, (under the 2010 Omnibus Incentive Plan)(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the NiSource Inc. Form 10-Q filed on November 3, 2015).* |
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(10.7) | Form of Amendment to Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement related to Vested but Unpaid NiSource Restricted Stock Unit Awards for Nonemployee Directors of NiSource entered into as of July 13, 2015 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the NiSource Inc. Form 10-Q filed on November 3, 2015).* |
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(10.8) | |
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(10.9) | Supplemental Life Insurance Plan effective January 1, 1991, as amended, (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2 to the NIPSCO Industries, Inc. Form 8-K filed on March 25, 1992).* |
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(10.10) | |
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(10.11) | |
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(10.12) | Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement for Non-employee directors under the Non-employee Director Stock Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.19 to the NiSource Inc. Form 10-K filed on February 28, 2011).* |
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(10.13) | Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement for Nonemployee Directors under the 2010 Omnibus Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to NiSource Inc. Form 10-Q filed on August 2, 2011).* |
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(10.14) | |
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(10.15) | Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement for Nonemployee Directors under the 2010 Omnibus Incentive Plan.Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.18 to the NiSource Inc. Form 10-K filed on February 22, 2017). * |
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(10.16) | |
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(10.17) | |
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(10.18) | |
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(10.19) | Amendment No. 1, dated as of November 10, 2008, to the Note Purchase Agreement by and among NiSource Finance Corp., as issuer, NiSource Inc., as guarantor, and the purchasers whose names appear on the signature page thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.30 to the NiSource Inc. Form 10-K filed on February 27, 2009). |
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(10.20) | |
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(10.21) | |
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(10.22) | Employee Matters Agreement, dated as of June 30, 2015, by and between NiSource Inc. and Columbia Pipeline Group, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the NiSource Inc. Form 8-K filed on July 2, 2015). |
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(10.23) | |
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(10.24) | |
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(10.25) | |
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(10.26) | Common Stock Subscription Agreement, dated as of May 2, 2018, by and among NiSource Inc. and the purchasers named therein (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the NiSource Inc. Form 8-K filed on May 2, 2018).
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(10.27) | Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of May 2, 2018, by and among NiSource Inc. and the purchasers named therein (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the NiSource Inc. Form 8-K filed on May 2, 2018).
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(10.28) | Purchase Agreement, dated as of June 6, 2018, by and among NiSource Inc. and Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC, J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC and MUFG Securities Americas Inc., as representatives, relating to the 5.650% Series A Preferred Stock (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the NiSource Inc. Form 8-K filed on June 12, 2018).
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(10.29) | Purchase Agreement, dated as of June 6, 2018, by and among NiSource Inc. and Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC, J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC and MUFG Securities Americas Inc., as representatives, relating to the 3.650% Notes due 2023 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the NiSource Inc. Form 8-K filed on June 12, 2018). |
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(10.30) | Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of June 11, 2018, by and among NiSource Inc. and Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC, J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC and MUFG Securities Americas Inc., as representatives, relating to the 5.650% Series A Preferred Stock (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 of the NiSource Inc. Form 8-K filed on June 12, 2018).
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(10.31) | Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of June 11, 2018, by and among NiSource Inc. and Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC, J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC and MUFG Securities Americas Inc., as representatives, relating to the 3.650% Notes due 2023 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 of the NiSource Inc. Form 8-K filed on June 12, 2018).
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(10.32) |
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(10.33) |
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(10.34) |
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(10.35) | |
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(10.36) | Fifth Amended and Restated Revolving Credit Agreement, dated as of February 20, 2019, among NiSource Inc., as Borrower, the Lenders party thereto, Barclays Bank PLC, as Administrative Agent, Citibank, N.A. and MUFG Bank, Ltd., as Co-Syndication Agents, Credit Suisse AG, Cayman Islands Branch, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Co-Documentation Agents, and Barclays Bank PLC, Citibank, N.A., MUFG Bank, Ltd., Credit Suisse Loan Funding LLC, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. and Wells Fargo Securities, LLC, as Joint Lead Arrangers and Joint Bookrunners (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the NiSource Inc. Form 8-K filed on February 20, 2019).
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(10.37)(10.33) |
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(10.38)(10.34) | Amended and Restated Term Loan Agreement, dated as of April 17, 2019, among NiSource Inc., as Borrower, the Lenders party thereto, and MUFG Bank Ltd., as Administrative Agent and Sole Lead Arranger and Sole Bookrunner (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the NiSource Inc. Form 8-Kfiled on April 17, 2019).
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(10.39) | |
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(10.40)(10.35) | |
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(10.41)(10.36) | |
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(10.42)(10.37) |
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(10.43)(10.38) |
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(21) | |
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(10.39) | |
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(10.40) | Settlement Agreement, dated July 2, 2020, by and among Bay State Gas Company d/b/a Columbia Gas of Massachusetts, NiSource Inc., Eversource Gas Company of Massachusetts, Eversource Energy, the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office, the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources the Low-Income Weatherization and Fuel Assistance Program Network (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the NiSource Inc. Form 8-K filed on July 6, 2020). |
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(10.41) | |
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(10.42) | Addendum to Plea Agreement filed on or about June 21, 2020 in the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 of the NiSource Inc. Form 10-Q filed on August 5, 2020). |
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(10.43) | Letter Agreement by and among NiSource Inc., Bay State Gas Company d/b/a Columbia Gas of Massachusetts and Eversource Energy Relating to Asset Purchase Agreement, dated October 9, 2020 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the NiSource Inc. Form 10-Q filed on November 2, 2020).*** |
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(10.44) | |
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(10.45) | |
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(10.46) | |
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(10.47) | |
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(10.48) | |
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(10.49) | |
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(10.50) | Amendment to Settlement Agreement by and among Bay State Gas Company d/b/a Columbia Gas of Massachusetts, NiSource Inc., Eversource Gas Company of Massachusetts, Eversource Energy, the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office, the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources and the Low-Income Weatherization and Fuel Assistance Program Network, dated September 29, 2020 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the NiSource Inc. Form 10-Q filed on November 2, 2020). |
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(10.51) | |
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(10.52) | |
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(10.53) | |
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(10.54) | Sixth Amended and Restated Revolving Credit Agreement, dated as of February 18, 2022, among NiSource Inc., as Borrower, the Lenders party thereto, Barclays Bank PLC, as Administrative Agent, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. and MUFG Bank, Ltd., as Co-Syndication Agents, Credit Suisse AG, New York Branch, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, and Bank of America, National Association, as Co-Documentation Agents, Barclays Bank PLC and MUFG Bank, Ltd., as Co-Sustainability Structuring Agents, and Barclays Bank PLC, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. MUFG Bank, Ltd., Credit Suisse Loan Funding LLC, Wells Fargo Securities, LLC, and BofA Securities, Inc., as Joint Lead Arrangers and Joint Bookrunners (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the NiSource Inc. Form 8-K filed on February 18, 2022). |
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(10.55) | |
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(10.56) | Credit Agreement, dated as of December 20, 2022, among NiSource Inc., as Borrower, the lenders party thereto, and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Administrative Agent, PNC Capital Markets LLC, as Syndication Agent, Bank of America, N.A. and Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as Co-Documentation Agents and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., PNC Capital Markets LLC, Bank of America, N.A. and Wells Fargo Securities, LLC, as Joint Lead Arrangers and Joint Bookrunners (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the NiSource Inc. Form 8-K filed on December 20, 2022)
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(10.57) | |
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(10.58) | |
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(10.59) | |
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(10.60) | |
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(21) | |
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(23) | |
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(31.1) | |
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(31.2) | |
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(32.1) | |
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(32.2) | |
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(101.INS) | Inline XBRL Instance Document - the instance document does not appear in the Interactive Data File because its XBRL tags are embedded within the Inline XBRL document. ** |
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(101.SCH) | Inline XBRL Schema Document.** |
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(101.CAL) | Inline XBRL Calculation Linkbase Document.** |
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(101.LAB) | Inline XBRL Labels Linkbase Document.** |
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(101.PRE) | Inline XBRL Presentation Linkbase Document.** |
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(101.DEF) | Inline XBRL Definition Linkbase Document.** |
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(104) | Cover page Interactive Data File (formatted as inline XBRL, and contained in Exhibit 101.) |
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* | Management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement of NiSource Inc. |
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** | Exhibit filed herewith. |
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*** | Schedules and exhibits have been omitted pursuant to Item 601(b)(2) of Regulation S-K. NiSource agrees to furnish supplementally a copy of any omitted schedules or exhibits to the SEC upon request. |
References made to NIPSCO filings can be found at Commission File Number 001-04125. References made to NiSource Inc. filings made prior to November 1, 2000 can be found at Commission File Number 001-09779.
ITEM 16. FORM 10-K SUMMARY
None.
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, hereunto duly authorized.
| | | | | | | | |
| | NiSource Inc. |
| | (Registrant) |
| | |
| | NiSource Inc. |
| | (Registrant) |
| | |
Date: February 27, 202022, 2023 | By: | /s/ JOSEPH HAMROCKLLOYD M. YATES |
| | Joseph HamrockLloyd M. Yates |
| | President, Chief Executive Officer and Director |
| | (Principal Executive Officer) |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | /s/ | LLOYD M. YATES | | President, Chief | Date: February 22, 2023 |
| | | Lloyd M. Yates | | Executive Officer and Director (Principal Executive Officer) | |
| | | | | | |
| | /s/ | JOSEPH HAMROCK | | President, Chief | Date: February 27, 2020 |
| | | Joseph Hamrock | | Executive Officer and Director (Principal Executive Officer) | |
| | | | | | |
| | /s/ | DONALD E. BROWN | | Executive Vice President and | Date: February 27, 202022, 2023 |
| | | Donald E. Brown | | Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)
| |
| | | | | | |
| | /s/ | JOSEPH W. MULPASGUNNAR J. GODE | | Vice President and | Date: February 27, 202022, 2023 |
| | | Joseph W. MulpasGunnar J. Gode | | Chief Accounting Officer (Principal Accounting Officer) | |
| | | | | | |
| | /s/ | KEVIN T. KABAT | | Chairman and Directorof the Board | Date: February 27, 202022, 2023 |
| | | Kevin T. Kabat
| | | |
| | | | | | |
| | /s/ | PETER A. ALTABEF | | Director | Date: February 27, 202022, 2023 |
| | | Peter A. Altabef | | | |
| | | | | | |
| | /s/ | SONDRA L. BARBOUR | | Director | Date: February 22, 2023 |
| | | Sondra L. Barbour | | | |
| | | | | | |
| | /s/ | THEODORE H. BUNTING, JR. | | Director | Date: February 27, 202022, 2023 |
| | | Theodore H. Bunting, Jr. | | | |
| | | | | | |
| | /s/ | ERIC L. BUTLER | | Director | Date: February 27, 202022, 2023 |
| | | Eric L. Butler | | | |
| | | | | | |
| | /s/ | ARISTIDES S. CANDRIS | | Director | Date: February 27, 202022, 2023 |
| | | Aristides S. Candris | | | |
| | | | | | |
| | /s/ | WAYNE S. DEVEYDTDEBORAH A. HENRETTA | | Director | Date: February 27, 202022, 2023 |
| | | Wayne S. DeVeydtDeborah A. Henretta | | | |
| | | | | | |
| | /s/ | DEBORAH A. HENRETTAA.P. HERSMAN | | Director | Date: February 27, 202022, 2023 |
| | | Deborah A. Henretta | | | |
| | | | | | |
| | /s/ | DEBORAH A.P. HERSMAN | | Director | Date: February 27, 2020 |
| | | Deborah A. P. Hersman | | | |
| | | | | | |
| | /s/ | MICHAEL E. JESANIS | | Director | Date: February 27, 202022, 2023 |
| | | Michael E. Jesanis | | | |
| | | | | | |
| | /s/ | CAROLYN Y. WOOWILLIAM D. JOHNSON | | Director | Date: February 27, 202022, 2023 |
| | | Carolyn Y. WooWilliam D. Johnson | | | |
| | | | | | |
| | /s/ | CASSANDRA S. LEE | | Director | Date: February 22, 2023 |
| | | Cassandra S. Lee | | | |