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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
[x] Quarterly report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934
For the quarterly period ended June 30, 2003
or
[ ] Transition report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934
For the transition period from to
Commission file number 1-14768
NSTAR
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Massachusetts 04-3466300
(State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization) Identification No.)
800 Boylston Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02199
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (617) 424-2000
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all
reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months
(or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to
file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing
requirements for the past 90 days. Yes x No
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an accelerated
filer (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
Yes x No
Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's
classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.
Class Outstanding at August 8, 2003
Common Shares, $1 par value 53,032,546 shares
NSTAR
Form 10-Q - Quarterly Period Ended June 30, 2003
Index
Part I. Financial Information Page No.
Item 1. Financial Statements -
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income 3
Condensed Consolidated Statements of
Comprehensive Income 4
Condensed Consolidated Statements of
Retained Earnings 4
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets 5 - 6
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows 7
Notes to Condensed Consolidated
Financial Statements 8 - 19
Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of
Financial Condition and Results of Operations 19 - 35
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure about
Market Risk 36
Item 4. Controls and Procedures 36
Part II. Other Information
Item 1. Legal Proceedings 36
Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K 37
Signature 38
Important Shareholder Information
NSTAR files its Forms 10-K, 10-Q and 8-K reports, proxy
statements and other information with the Securities and Exchange
Commission (SEC). You may access materials NSTAR has filed with
the SEC on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov. In addition,
certain of NSTAR's SEC filings can be accessed free of charge on
NSTAR's website at www.nstaronline.com. Copies of NSTAR's
filings may also be obtained by writing or calling NSTAR's
Investor Relations Department at the address or phone number on
the cover of this Form 10-Q.
Part I - Financial Information
Item 1. Financial Statements
NSTAR
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income
(Unaudited)
(in thousands, except earnings per share)
Three Months Ended Six Months Ended
June 30, June 30,
2003 2002 2003 2002
Operating revenues $647,910 $593,270 $1,411,465 $1,298,498
Operating expenses:
Purchased power and cost of gas sold 349,369 299,964 783,608 695,658
Operations and maintenance 104,870 108,636 214,794 214,889
Depreciation and amortization 57,459 56,883 119,603 117,508
Demand side management and
renewable energy programs 15,404 15,447 32,274 31,872
Property and other taxes 22,755 24,152 49,134 51,201
Income taxes 23,917 19,127 52,439 41,594
Total operating expenses 573,774 524,209 1,251,852 1,152,722
Operating income 74,136 69,061 159,613 145,773
Other income (deductions):
Write-down of RCN investment, net - (27,601) - (27,601)
Other income, net 6,614 6,353 7,670 7,886
Other deductions, net (571) (455) (1,188) (464)
Total other income (deductions), net 6,043 (21,703) 6,482 (20,179)
Interest charges:
Long term debt 29,557 28,016 61,336 56,038
Transition property securitization 8,221 9,325 16,905 19,130
Short-term debt and other interest 3,616 4,488 7,529 10,385
Allowance for borrowed funds used
during construction (AFUDC) (859) (161) (2,147) (440)
Total interest charges 40,535 41,668 83,623 85,113
Net income 39,644 5,690 82,472 40,484
Preferred stock dividends of subsidiary 490 490 980 980
Earnings available for common
shareholders $ 39,154 $ 5,200 $ 81,492 $ 39,504
======== ======== ========== ==========
Weighted average common shares
outstanding:
Basic 53,033 53,033 53,033 53,033
====== ====== ====== ======
Diluted 53,404 53,331 53,358 53,294
====== ====== ====== ======
Earnings per common share:
Basic $0.74 $0.10 $1.54 $0.75
===== ===== ===== =====
Diluted $0.73 $0.10 $1.53 $0.74
===== ===== ===== =====
Dividends declared per common share $0.54 $0.53 $1.08 $1.06
===== ===== ===== =====
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the condensed
consolidated financial statements.
NSTAR
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
(Unaudited)
(in thousands)
Three Months Ended Six Months Ended
June 30, June 30,
2003 2002 2003 2002
Net income $ 39,644 $ 5,690 $ 82,472 $ 40,484
Other comprehensive income, net:
Unrealized gain (loss) on
investments 14,612 (977) 16,816 (7,862)
Reclassification adjustment for
loss included in net income - 7,992 - 6,489
Deferred income taxes - (2,509) - 480
Comprehensive income $ 54,256 $ 10,196 $ 99,288 $ 39,591
======== ======== ======== ========
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the condensed
consolidated financial statements.
NSTAR
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Retained Earnings
(Unaudited)
(in thousands)
Three Months Ended Six Months Ended
June 30, June 30,
2003 2002 2003 2002
Balance at the beginning of
the period $396,586 $340,335 $382,886 $334,138
Add:
Net income 39,644 5,690 82,472 40,484
Subtotal 436,230 346,025 465,358 374,622
Deduct:
Dividends declared:
Common shares 28,637 28,109 57,275 56,216
Preferred stock 490 490 980 980
Subtotal 29,127 28,599 58,255 57,196
Balance at the end of the period $407,103 $317,426 $407,103 $317,426
======== ======== ======== ========
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the condensed consolidated financial
statements.
NSTAR
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
(in thousands)
(Unaudited)
June 30, December 31,
2003 2002
Assets
Utility plant in service, at original cost $ 4,152,840 $ 4,090,843
Less: accumulated depreciation 1,348,346 1,309,270
2,804,494 2,781,573
Construction work in progress 93,228 66,047
Net utility plant 2,897,722 2,847,620
Non-utility property, net 148,808 129,918
Goodwill 445,248 451,374
Equity and other investments 86,097 52,236
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents 15,794 53,438
Restricted cash 34,323 33,899
Accounts receivable, net and accrued
unbilled revenues 340,784 345,848
Inventory, at average cost 63,798 58,555
Other 26,282 14,886
Total current assets 480,981 506,626
Deferred debits:
Regulatory assets - other 791,973 802,200
Regulatory asset - power contracts 672,262 773,922
Regulatory asset - pension costs 435,415 425,755
Other 93,659 133,624
1,993,309 2,135,501
Total assets $ 6,052,165 $ 6,123,275
=========== ===========
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the condensed
consolidated financial statements.
NSTAR
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
(in thousands)
(Unaudited)
June 30, December 31,
2003 2002
Capitalization and Liabilities
Common equity:
Common shares, par value $1 per share
(100,000,000 shares authorized;
53,032,546 shares issued and outstanding) $ 53,033 $ 53,033
Premium on common shares 867,007 870,877
Retained earnings 407,103 382,886
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) 9,325 (7,491)
Total common equity 1,336,468 1,299,305
Cumulative non-mandatory redeemable preferred stock
of subsidiary 43,000 43,000
Long-term debt 1,791,546 1,645,465
Transition property securitization 411,081 445,890
Total long-term debt 2,202,627 2,091,355
Total capitalization 3,582,095 3,433,660
Current liabilities:
Long-term debt 9,666 172,191
Transition property securitization 38,959 40,555
Notes payable 224,500 198,600
Accounts payable 247,602 230,939
Accrued expenses 249,955 239,160
Deferred income taxes 33,150 4,692
Total current liabilities 803,832 886,137
Deferred credits:
Accumulated deferred income taxes and unamortized
investment tax credits 692,124 675,881
Power contracts 672,262 773,922
Pension liability 138,892 177,675
Other 162,960 176,000
1,666,238 1,803,478
Commitments and contingencies
Total capitalization and liabilities $ 6,052,165 $ 6,123,275
========== ===========
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the condensed
consolidated financial statements.
NSTAR
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(Unaudited)
(in thousands)
Six Months Ended June 30,
2003 2002
Operating activities:
Net income $ 82,472 $ 40,484
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net
cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization 120,014 117,508
Deferred income taxes and investment tax
credits 51,691 17,254
Loss on write-down of RCN investment - 27,601
Allowance for borrowed funds used during
construction (2,148) (440)
Net changes in:
Accounts receivable 5,064 195,960
Accounts payable 16,663 (35,707)
Other current assets (17,063) 12,134
Other current liabilities 35,320 15,810
Net change from other operating activities (122,432) (38,055)
Net cash provided by operating activities 169,581 352,549
Investing activities:
Plant expenditures (excluding AFUDC) (139,527) (168,072)
Proceeds on sale of property 17,572 -
Other investments 1,008 8,973
Net cash used in investing activities (120,947) (159,099)
Financing activities:
Long-term debt redemptions (166,854) (33,550)
Transition property securitization (36,406) (32,811)
Long-term debt issuance 150,000 -
Debt issue costs (663) -
Net change in notes payable 25,900 (80,947)
Dividends paid (58,255) (57,196)
Net cash used in financing activities (86,278) (204,504)
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents (37,644) (11,054)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 53,438 11,655
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period $ 15,794 $ 601
========= =========
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:
Cash paid during the period for:
Interest, net of amounts capitalized $ 81,342 $ 76,449
========= =========
Income taxes $ 11,235 $ 19,453
========= =========
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the condensed
consolidated financial statements.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(Unaudited)
The accompanying Notes should be read in conjunction with Notes
to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in NSTAR's 2002
Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Note A. Business Organization and Summary of Significant
Accounting Policies
1. About NSTAR
NSTAR is an energy delivery company serving approximately 1.4
million customers in Massachusetts, including approximately 1.1
million electric customers in 81 communities and 300,000 gas
customers in 51 communities. NSTAR's retail utility subsidiaries
are Boston Edison Company (Boston Edison), Commonwealth Electric
Company (ComElectric), Cambridge Electric Light Company
(Cambridge Electric) (collectively operating as "NSTAR Electric")
and NSTAR Gas Company (NSTAR Gas). Reference in this report to
"NSTAR" shall mean the registrant NSTAR or one or more of its
subsidiaries as the context requires. Reference in this report
to "NSTAR Electric" shall mean each of Boston Edison, ComElectric
and Cambridge Electric. NSTAR also has ownership interests in
and conducts non-utility, unregulated operations.
2. Basis of Consolidation and Accounting
The financial information presented as of June 30, 2003 and for
the periods ended June 30, 2003 and 2002 have been prepared from
NSTAR's books and records without audit by independent
accountants. However, NSTAR's independent accountants have
performed a review of these interim financial statements in
accordance with standards established by the American Institute
of Certified Public Accountants. Pursuant to Rule 436(c) under
the Securities Act of 1933, their report of that review should
not be considered as part of any registration statements prepared
or certified by them within the meaning of Section 7 and 11 of
that Act and the independent accountants' liability under Section
11 does not extend to it. Financial information as of December
31, 2002 was derived from the audited consolidated financial
statements of NSTAR, but does not include all disclosures
required by accounting principles generally accepted in the
United States of America (GAAP). In the opinion of NSTAR's
management, all adjustments (which are of a normal recurring
nature) necessary for a fair presentation of the financial
information for the periods indicated have been included.
Certain immaterial reclassifications have been made to the prior
year data to conform with the current presentation.
The utility subsidiaries are subject to the Financial Accounting
Standards Board (FASB) Statement of Financial Accounting
Standards (SFAS) No. 71, "Accounting for the Effects of Certain
Types of Regulation" (SFAS 71). The application of SFAS 71
results in differences in the timing of recognition of certain
expenses from that of other businesses and industries. The
distribution business remains subject to rate-regulation and
continues to meet the criteria for application of SFAS 71.
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP
requires management of NSTAR and its subsidiaries to make
estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of
assets and liabilities and disclosures 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 these estimates.
The results of operations for the three and six month periods
ended June 30, 2003 and 2002 are not indicative of the results
that may be expected for an entire year. Kilowatt-hour sales and
revenues are typically higher in the winter and summer than in
the spring and fall, as sales tend to vary with weather
conditions. Gas sales and revenues are typically higher in the
winter months than during other periods of the year.
3. Stock Option Plan
NSTAR applies the recognition and measurement principles of APB
Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees" and
related Interpretations in accounting for its stock option plan.
No stock-based employee compensation expense for option grants is
reflected in net income, as all options granted under this plan
had an exercise price equal to the market value of the underlying
common stock on the date of grant. The following table
illustrates the effect on net income and earnings per share if
NSTAR had applied the fair value recognition provisions of SFAS
No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation" to stock-based
employee compensation.
Three Months Ended Six Months Ended
June 30, June 30,
(in thousands, except per share amounts) 2003 2002 2003 2002
Net income, as reported $39,644 $ 5,690 $82,472 $40,484
Add: Share grant incentive compensation
expense included in reported net
income, net of related tax effects 542 429 997 730
Deduct: Total share grant and stock
option compensation expense determined
under fair value method for all
awards, net of related tax effects (779) (584) (1,377) (1,040)
Pro forma net income $39,407 $ 5,535 $82,092 $40,174
======= ======= ======= =======
Earnings per share:
Basic - as reported $0.74 $0.10 $1.54 $0.75
Basic - pro forma $0.73 $0.10 $1.53 $0.74
Diluted - as reported $0.73 $0.10 $1.53 $0.74
Diluted - pro forma $0.73 $0.09 $1.52 $0.74
4. New Accounting Standards
In May 2003, the FASB issued SFAS No. 150, "Accounting for
Certain Financial Instruments with Characteristics of both
Liabilities and Equity" (SFAS 150). This Statement establishes
standards for how an issuer classifies and measures certain
financial instruments with characteristics of both liabilities
and equity. The Statement is intended to improve the accounting
for these financial instruments that, under previous guidance,
issuers could account for as equity. This Statement requires
that these instruments be classified as liabilities on the
balance sheet. NSTAR adopted SFAS 150 effective July 1, 2003 and
assessed the requirements of the standard and has not identified
any financial instruments to which SFAS 150 applies. In
addition, NSTAR has not entered into, nor modified any financial
instrument since May 31, 2003. As a result, the implementation
of this Statement has not had an impact on its financial position
or results of operations.
In June 2003, the Derivatives Implementation Group (DIG), a
working group of the FASB, issued DIG No. C20, "Scope Exceptions:
Interpretation of the Meaning of 'Not Clearly and Closely
Related' in Paragraph 10(b) regarding Contracts with a Price
Adjustment Feature," which clarified the interpretation of
clearly and closely related contracts that include price
adjustments. This interpretation also established transition
guidance for those contracts that had previously met the normal
purchases and sales exception under previous guidance but may not
meet the scope exception under this interpretation. For NSTAR,
the effective date of DIG Issue No. C20 is October 1, 2003.
NSTAR is currently assessing the impact of this interpretation on
its current derivative contracts. The adoption of DIG Issue No.
C20 would not result in an earnings impact.
Note B. Asset Retirement Obligations
On January 1, 2003, NSTAR adopted SFAS No. 143, "Accounting for
Asset Retirement Obligations" (SFAS 143). This Statement
establishes accounting and reporting standards for obligations
associated with the retirement of tangible long-lived assets and
the associated asset retirement costs. It applies to legal
obligations associated with the retirement of long-lived assets
that result from the acquisition, construction, development
and/or the normal operation of a long-lived asset, except for
certain obligations under lease arrangements. SFAS 143 requires
entities to record the fair value of a liability for an asset
retirement obligation in the period in which it is incurred.
When the liability is initially recorded, the entity capitalizes
the cost by increasing the carrying amount of the related long-
lived asset. Over time, the liability is accreted to its present
value each period, and the capitalized cost is depreciated over
the useful life of the related asset. Upon settlement of the
liability, an entity either settles the obligation for its
recorded amount or incurs a gain or loss upon settlement.
NSTAR has identified certain insignificant long-lived assets,
including obligations under lease and easement arrangements, and
has determined that it is legally responsible to remove such
property.
For its regulated utility businesses, NSTAR has identified legal
retirement obligations that are currently not material to its
financial statements. The recognition of a potential asset
retirement obligation will have no impact on its earnings. In
accordance with SFAS 71, for NSTAR's regulated utilities, NSTAR
would establish regulatory assets or liabilities to defer any
differences between the liabilities established for ratemaking
purposes and those recorded as required under SFAS 143.
For NSTAR's regulated utility businesses, cost of removal
(negative net salvage) is recognized as a component of
depreciation expense in accordance with approved regulatory
treatment. Since NSTAR applies SFAS 71 to its regulated utility
businesses, it will continue to include removal costs in
depreciation expense and will quantify the removal costs included
in accumulated depreciation as regulatory liabilities in footnote
disclosure. NSTAR estimates that as of June 30, 2003, there is
approximately $232 million of removal costs, not yet incurred,
included in accumulated depreciation.
NSTAR has identified several long-lived assets, in which it has
legal obligations to remove such property, for its non-regulated
businesses. Based on current information and assumptions, NSTAR,
in the first quarter of 2003, recorded an increase in non-utility
plant of approximately $0.6 million, an asset retirement
liability of approximately $1 million and a cumulative effect of
adoption after tax, reducing net income by $0.4 million in 2003.
The cumulative effect adjustment is recorded as part of
Depreciation and amortization expense on the accompanying
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income.
Note C. Investments - Available for Sale Securities
NSTAR classifies its investment in marketable securities as
available for sale. These investments include 11.6 million
common shares of RCN Corporation (RCN). The total carrying value
of the 11.6 million RCN common shares is included in Equity and
other investments on the accompanying Condensed Consolidated
Balance Sheets at its estimated fair value of approximately $23
million at June 30, 2003. The fair value of the 11.6 million
shares held may increase or decrease as a result of changes in
the market value of RCN common shares. As of June 30, 2003,
December 31, 2002 and June 30, 2002, the market value per share
of RCN was $1.98, $0.53 and $1.37, respectively. The unrealized
gain or loss associated with these shares will fluctuate due to
the changes in fair value of these securities during each period
and is reflected, net of associated income taxes, as a component
of Other comprehensive income, net on the accompanying Condensed
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income. The cumulative
increase or decrease in fair value of these shares are included
in Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) on the
accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Note D. Derivative Instruments - Power Contracts
NSTAR accounts for its power contracts in accordance with SFAS
No. 133, "Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging
Activities" (SFAS 133). The accounting for derivative financial
instruments is subject to change based on the guidance received
from the DIG of FASB. In October 2001, the DIG issued No. C15,
"Scope Exceptions: Normal Purchases and Normal Sales Exception
for Option-Type Contracts and Forward Contracts in Electricity,"
which specifically addressed the interpretation of clearly and
closely related contracts that qualify for the normal purchases
and sales exception under SFAS 133. The conclusion reached by
the DIG was that contracts with a pricing mechanism that is
subject to future adjustment based on a generic index that is not
specifically related to the contracted service commodity
generally would not qualify for the normal purchases and sales
exception.
NSTAR has six purchased power contracts that contain components
with pricing mechanisms that are based on a pricing index, such
as the GNP or CPI. Although these factors are only applied to
certain ancillary pricing components of these agreements, as
required by the interpretation of DIG Issue C15, NSTAR began
recording these contracts at fair value on its Consolidated
Balance Sheets during 2002. This action resulted in the
recognition of a liability for the fair value of the above-market
portion of these contracts at June 30, 2003 and December 31, 2002
of approximately $579 million and $701 million, respectively, and
is a component of Deferred credits - Power contracts on the
accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. This decline
in above-market costs during the current period was primarily due
to an increase in wholesale energy prices during the first half
of 2003. NSTAR collects all of its purchased power costs from
its customers; therefore, it has recorded a corresponding
regulatory asset to reflect the future recovery. Therefore, as a
result of this regulatory treatment, the recording of the fair
value of these contracts on NSTAR's accompanying Condensed
Consolidated Balance Sheets does not result in an earnings
impact.
In June 2003, the DIG issued No. C20, as previously defined,
which clarified the interpretation of clearly and closely related
contracts that include price adjustments. DIG Issue No. C20 is
not effective until October 1, 2003. See Note A.4., "New
Accounting Standards," for further discussion on this topic.
Note E. Other Utility Matters
1. Blackstone Station
On April 8, 2003, Cambridge Electric completed the sale of the
land and buildings constituting Blackstone Station to Harvard
University (Harvard) for $14.6 million; the net proceeds from the
sale were used to reduce Cambridge Electric's transition charge.
The sale by Cambridge Electric was approved by the Massachusetts
Department of Telecommunications and Energy (MDTE) during the
first quarter of 2003. Also on April 8, 2003, NSTAR Steam
Corporation completed the sale of its Blackstone steam assets to
Harvard for $3 million. The net impact of these transactions
resulted in a pretax gain of $1.5 million in the second quarter
of 2003.
2. Service Quality Index
On February 28, 2003, NSTAR Electric and NSTAR Gas filed their
2002 Service Quality Reports with the MDTE that reflected
significant improvements in reliability and performance; the
reports indicate that no penalty will be assessed for that
period. NSTAR monitors its service quality continuously to
determine its contingent liability, and if it were determined
that a liability has been incurred and is estimable, an
appropriate liability would be accrued. Any MDTE determination
that would result in a different liability (or credit) level from
what has been accrued would be adjusted in the period when such
rate order is issued.
Through June 30, 2003, NSTAR Electric's performance has met or
exceeded the applicable established benchmarks such that no
liability has been accrued; however, these results may not be
indicative of the results that may be expected for the remainder
of the year, including the peak-demand period anticipated during
the summer period.
3. Regulatory Proceedings
On August 4, 2003, NSTAR Electric filed proposed Standard Offer
Service Fuel Adjustment (SOSFA) rates with the MDTE to be
effective September 1, 2003. In the past, the MDTE has allowed
companies to adjust to rapidly changing market costs of oil and
natural gas used to generate electricity. The Boston Edison
SOSFA will be reduced to zero following an increase in this rate
adjustment to 0.902 cents per kilowatt-hour that was effective
May 1, 2003. The decrease in this rate is due to lower fuel
costs from its contracted power suppliers. The ComElectric and
Cambridge Electric SOSFA is proposed to increase on September 1,
2003 by 0.522 cents per kilowatt-hour to a level of 1.424 cents
per kilowatt-hour due to higher fuel costs from their contracted
wholesale power suppliers. The SOSFA remained at zero from April
1, 2002 through April 30, 2003 for the NSTAR Electric companies.
The MDTE has ruled that these fuel index adjustments are excluded
from the 15% rate reduction requirement under the Restructuring
Act.
During the second quarter of 2003, the MDTE issued an order
approving ComElectric's and Cambridge Electric's standard offer,
default service, transmission, and transition costs and revenues
for 2001. This order finalized all outstanding matters relating
to the true-up filings for 2001. Among other things, this order
included adjustments for emission allowances relating to the
Cannon Street facility, a former generating station.
Also in the second quarter of 2003, NSTAR Electric submitted to
the Independent System Operator - New England (ISO-NE) its
updated transmission rates including scheduling and dispatch
costs associated with Regional Network Service (RNS). Pursuant
to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC)-regulated
formula rates in the Open Access Transmission Tariff, the RNS
costs (and subsequent charges) are trued-up as of June 1 of each
year, based upon the cost information for the prior calendar
year. These new rates went into effect on June 1, 2003.
In addition to the RNS rates, NSTAR Electric completed the annual
true-up for 2002 costs associated with the FERC-regulated Local
Network Service and set these new rates to become effective on
June 1, 2003 for Boston Edison and July 1, 2003 for Cambridge
Electric and ComElectric.
In connection with these various true-up filings, NSTAR Electric
recognized $8.6 million, included in revenues, as an adjustment
to previously established liabilities.
Note F. Income Taxes
Income taxes are accounted for in accordance with SFAS No. 109,
"Accounting for Income Taxes" (SFAS 109). SFAS 109 requires the
recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the future
tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts
and the tax basis of assets and liabilities. In accordance with
SFAS 109, net regulatory assets include $50.5 million and $50.7
million of deferred tax assets and corresponding amounts in
accumulated deferred income taxes that were recorded as of June
30, 2003 and December 31, 2002, respectively. The regulatory
assets represent the additional future revenues to be collected
from customers for deferred income taxes.
The following table reconciles the statutory federal income tax
rate to the annual estimated effective income tax rate for 2003
and the actual effective income tax rate for the year ended
December 31, 2002:
2003 2002
Statutory tax rate 35.0% 35.0%
State income tax, net of federal income tax benefit 5.2 4.8
Investment tax credit amortization (0.6) (3.2)
Other 1.1 0.7
Effective tax rate before write-down and tax
valuation allowance adjustment 40.7 37.3
Adjustment to tax valuation allowance and write-
down of RCN investment (3.0) (4.0)
Effective tax rate 37.7% 33.3%
==== ====
1. Tax Valuation Allowance
During the second quarter of 2003, NSTAR sold property that
resulted in capital gains for income tax purposes. As a result
of these transactions, NSTAR recognized $4.1 million of deferred
tax benefits related to its tax valuation allowance. As of June
30, 2003, the remaining balance in the tax valuation allowance is
$49 million.
2. Tax Gain on Generating Assets
The IRS has completed its audit of Commonwealth Energy System's
income tax returns for the years 1997, 1998, and 1999 with the
exception of making a decision on the issue of the gain on the
sale of the generating assets. The IRS examining agents have
filed a Request for Technical Advice with the IRS National Office
with regard to this issue. The request was received by the
National Office on June 5, 2003. Although this request was filed
under the new IRS procedures intended to result in an expedited
response, a final decision may not occur until early October
2003. Should NSTAR's position be challenged as a result of the
IRS Request for Technical Advice, it is probable that NSTAR will
make a payment to the IRS of approximately $60 million in order
to stop the accrual of interest on the potential tax deficiency.
NSTAR intends to vigorously defend its position, which is
supported by an opinion from an independent tax advisor, relative
to this transaction and anticipates pursuing a refund of the
amount paid plus interest. In addition, NSTAR would pursue
regulatory rate recovery for the interest on tax deficiencies
should any amounts ultimately be incurred as a result of this
transaction. It is probable that any amounts incurred as a
result of this transaction will be fully recovered from NSTAR's
customers.
Note G. Earnings Per Common Share
Basic earnings per common share (EPS) is calculated by dividing
net income, after deductions for preferred dividends, by the
weighted average common shares outstanding during the year. SFAS
No. 128, "Earnings per Share," requires the disclosure of diluted
EPS. Diluted EPS is similar to the computation of basic EPS
except that the weighted average common shares is increased to
include the number of dilutive potential common shares. Diluted
EPS reflects the impact on shares outstanding of the deferred
(nonvested) shares and stock options granted, adjusted for
forfeitures, under the NSTAR 1997 Share Incentive Plan.
The following table summarizes the reconciling amounts between
basic and diluted EPS:
Three Months Ended Six Months Ended
June 30, June 30,
(in thousands, except per share amounts) 2003 2002 2003 2002
Earnings available for
common shareholders $39,154 $ 5,200 $81,492 $39,504
Basic EPS $0.74 $0.10 $1.54 $0.75
Diluted EPS $0.73 $0.10 $1.53 $0.74
Weighted average common shares
outstanding for basic EPS 53,033 53,033 53,033 53,033
Effect of diluted shares:
Weighted average dilutive
potential common shares 371 298 325 261
Weighted average common shares
outstanding for diluted EPS 53,404 53,331 53,358 53,294
====== ====== ====== ======
Note H. Segment and Related Information
For the purpose of providing segment information, NSTAR's
principal operating segments, or its traditional core businesses,
are the electric and natural gas utilities that provide energy
delivery services in 107 cities and towns in Massachusetts.
NSTAR subsidiaries also supply electricity at wholesale to
municipalities. The unregulated operating segment engages in
business activities that include district energy operations,
telecommunications and a liquefied natural gas service. Amounts
shown on the following table include the allocation of NSTAR's
(parent company) results of operations and assets, net of inter-
company transactions, and primarily consist of interest charges
and investment assets, respectively, to these business segments.
The allocation of parent company charges is based on an indirect
allocation of the parent company's investment relating to these
various business segments.
Financial data for the operating segments were as follows:
Utility Operations Unregulated Consolidated
(in thousands) Electric Gas Operations Total
Three months ended June 30,
2003
Operating revenues $ 538,858 $ 83,889 $ 25,163 $ 647,910
Segment net income $ 33,352 $ 143 $ 6,149 $ 39,644
2002
Operating revenues $ 494,925 $ 63,882 $ 34,463 $ 593,270
Segment net income (loss)(a) $ 29,210 $ 845 $ (24,365) $ 5,690
Six months ended June 30,
2003
Operating revenues $1,063,350 $ 284,754 $ 63,361 $1,411,465
Segment net income $ 56,503 $ 19,261 $ 6,708 $ 82,472
2002
Operating revenues $1,050,919 $ 177,688 $ 69,891 $1,298,498
Segment net income (loss)(a) $ 48,168 $ 13,502 $ (21,186) $ 40,484
Total assets
June 30, 2003 $5,195,906 $ 610,885 $ 245,374 $6,052,165
December 31, 2002 $5,285,143 $ 620,956 $ 217,176 $6,123,275
(a) Unregulated operations net income in 2002 includes an impairment charge
of $27.6 million for the three and six-month periods ended June 30, 2002.
Note I. Commitments and Contingencies
1. Environmental Matters
As of June 30, 2003, NSTAR's subsidiaries are involved in 7 state-
regulated properties ("Massachusetts Contingency Plan, or "MCP"
sites") where oil or other hazardous materials were previously
spilled or released. The NSTAR subsidiaries are required to
clean up or otherwise remediate these properties in accordance
with specific state regulations. There are uncertainties
associated with the remediation costs due to the final selection
of the specific cleanup technology and the particular
characteristics of the different sites. Estimates of
approximately $0.7 million and $0.8 million are included as
liabilities in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance
Sheets at June 30, 2003 and December 31, 2002, respectively.
In addition to the MCP sites, NSTAR subsidiaries also face
possible liability as a result of involvement in 13 multi-party
disposal sites or third party claims associated with
contamination remediation. NSTAR generally expects to have only
a small percentage of the total potential liability for these
sites. Estimates of approximately $3.5 million and $3.4 million
are included as liabilities in the accompanying Condensed
Consolidated Balance Sheets at June 30, 2003 and December 31,
2002, respectively.
Accordingly, the MCP and multi-party disposal site amounts have
not been reduced by any potential rate recovery treatment of
these costs or any potential recovery from NSTAR's insurance
carriers. Prospectively, should NSTAR be allowed to collect
these specific costs from customers, it would record an
offsetting regulatory asset and record a credit to operating
expenses equal to previously expensed costs. Based on its
assessments of the specific site circumstances, management does
not believe that it is probable that any such additional costs
will have a material impact on NSTAR's consolidated financial
position.
NSTAR Gas is participating in the assessment of four former
manufactured gas plant (MGP) sites and alleged MGP waste disposal
locations to determine if and to what extent such sites have been
contaminated and whether NSTAR Gas may be responsible for
remedial action. The MDTE has approved recovery of costs
associated with MGP sites over a 7-year period, without carrying
costs. As of June 30, 2003 and December 31, 2002, NSTAR has
recorded a liability of approximately $4.8 million as an estimate
for site cleanup costs for several MGP sites for which NSTAR Gas
was previously cited as a potentially responsible party. A
corresponding regulatory asset has been recorded that reflects
the future rate recovery for these costs.
Estimates related to environmental remediation costs are reviewed
and adjusted periodically as further investigation and assignment
of responsibility occurs and as either additional sites are
identified or NSTAR's responsibilities for such sites evolve or
are resolved. NSTAR's ultimate liability for future
environmental remediation costs may vary from these estimates.
Based on NSTAR's current assessment of its environmental
responsibilities, existing legal requirements and regulatory
policies, NSTAR does not believe that these environmental
remediation costs will have a material adverse effect on NSTAR's
consolidated financial position or results of operations for a
reporting period.
2. Legal Proceedings
In the normal course of its business, NSTAR and its subsidiaries
are involved in certain legal matters, including civil
litigation. Management is unable to fully determine a range of
reasonably possible court-ordered damages, settlement amounts,
and related litigation costs ("legal liabilities") that would be
in excess of amounts accrued. Based on the information currently
available, NSTAR does not believe that it is probable that any
such additional legal liability will have a material impact on
its consolidated financial position. However, it is reasonably
possible that additional legal liabilities that may result from
changes in estimates could have a material impact on its results
of operations for a reporting period.
Note J. Long-Term Debt Issuance
On May 14, 2003, ComElectric entered into a $150 million, three-
year variable rate unsecured Term Loan with a group of banks.
The rate was set at 1.875% for the initial six months. The net
proceeds were used to repay outstanding short-term debt balances.
Note K. Pension and Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions
(PBOP) Adjustment Mechanism Tariff Filing
On April 16, 2003, Boston Edison, Cambridge Electric, ComElectric
and NSTAR Gas (together, "the Company") submitted a request to
the MDTE for approval to establish a reconciliation adjustment
mechanism to provide for the recovery of costs associated with
the Company's obligations to provide its employees pension and
PBOP benefits.
The Company's proposal is intended to give effect to the
accounting treatment previously approved by the MDTE, through a
reconciling ratemaking mechanism that will provide rate stability
and ensure that customers pay no more or no less than the amounts
needed to extend pension and PBOP benefits to the Company's
employees.
The proposed reconciliation adjustment mechanism removes the
volatility in costs that may be the result of requirements of
existing financial accounting standards, provides for more timely
recovery of costs from or refunds of gains to customers, provides
for an annual filing, true-up and review by the MDTE and excludes
pension and PBOP costs from regular distribution rates so that
the MDTE may review them annually.
The MDTE has historically permitted the recovery of prudently
incurred expenditures relating to pension and PBOP benefits for
the Company's employees. The Company consistently contributes
amounts over and above the IRS minimum requirements to trust
funds that hold and invest the contributions until benefits are
paid.
The Company had requested that the MDTE approve the
reconciliation adjustment mechanism by August 1, 2003. In June,
the MDTE notified the Company that it would issue an order on
October 1, 2003. The Company cannot determine the ultimate
outcome of this proceeding.
In November 2002, NSTAR filed a request with the MDTE for an
accounting ruling to mitigate the impact of the non-cash charge
to Other Comprehensive Income (OCI) in 2002 and the increases in
expected pension and PBOP costs in 2003. On December 20, 2002,
the MDTE approved the Accounting Order. Based on this Accounting
Order and an opinion from legal counsel regarding the probability
of recovery of these costs in the future, NSTAR recorded a
regulatory asset in lieu of taking a charge to OCI at December
31, 2002. In addition, the order permits NSTAR to defer, as a
regulatory asset or liability, the difference between the level
of pension and PBOP expense that is included in rates and the
amounts that are required to be recorded under the pension and
PBOP accounting rules beginning in 2003.
As of June 30, 2003, the regulatory asset - pension costs of
$435.4 million, recorded as a result of this accounting ruling,
consists of the prepaid pension asset ($257 million) and includes
the additional minimum liability ($168.7 million) incurred at
December 31, 2002, and the 2003 deferral of pension expenses
allowed under the Accounting Order, of $9.7 million. Regulatory
assets - other includes the 2003 deferral of PBOP expense, per
the Accounting Order, of $3.8 million. These regulatory assets
are shown as part of Deferred debits in the accompanying
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. The ultimate outcome of
this proceeding regarding the reconciliation mechanism mentioned
above could impact the carrying value of these regulatory assets.
Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations (MD&A)
The accompanying MD&A should be read in conjunction with the MD&A
in NSTAR's 2002 Annual Report on Form 10-K and its March 31, 2003
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.
Overview
NSTAR is an energy delivery company serving approximately 1.4
million customers in Massachusetts, including approximately 1.1
million electric customers in 81 communities and 300,000 gas
customers in 51 communities. NSTAR's retail utility subsidiaries
are Boston Edison Company (Boston Edison), Commonwealth Electric
Company (ComElectric), Cambridge Electric Light Company
(Cambridge Electric) (collectively operating as "NSTAR Electric")
and NSTAR Gas Company (NSTAR Gas). Reference in this report to
"NSTAR" shall mean the registrant NSTAR or one or more of its
subsidiaries as the context requires. Reference in this report
to "NSTAR Electric" shall mean each of Boston Edison, ComElectric
and Cambridge Electric. NSTAR also has ownership interests in
and conducts non-utility, unregulated operations.
Cautionary Statement
This MD&A contains certain forward-looking statements such as
forecasts and projections of expected future performance or
statements of NSTAR management's plans and objectives. These
statements are based on the current expectations, estimates or
projections of management and are not guarantees of future
performance. Some or all of these forward-looking statements may
not turn out to be what NSTAR expected. Actual results could
potentially differ materially from these statements. Therefore,
no assurance can be given that the outcomes stated in such
forward-looking statements and estimates will be achieved. The
effects of cost control procedures, changes in weather, economic
conditions, tax rates, interest rates, technology, and prices and
availability of operating supplies could materially affect actual
results quarter to quarter and projected operating results.
NSTAR's forward-looking information is based in large measure on
prevailing governmental policies and regulatory actions,
including those of the Massachusetts Department of
Telecommunications and Energy (MDTE) and the Federal Energy
Regulatory Commission (FERC), with respect to allowed rates of
return, rate structure, continued recovery of regulatory assets,
financings, purchased power and cost of gas recovery, acquisition
and disposition of assets, operation and construction of
facilities, changes in tax laws and policies and changes in and
compliance with environmental and safety laws and policies. The
impacts of various environmental, legal, and regulatory matters
could differ from current expectations.
You are advised to consider all further disclosures NSTAR makes
in its filings to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
This report also describes changes to NSTAR's material
contingencies and critical accounting policies and estimates in
this MD&A and in the accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated
Financial Statements, and NSTAR encourages you to review these
disclosures. You are also advised to consider the "Cautionary
Statements" NSTAR made in its 2002 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
For a complete discussion of critical accounting policies, refer
to "Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates" in Item 7 of
NSTAR's 2002 Form 10-K. There have been no substantive changes
to those policies and estimates.
Asset Retirement Obligations
On January 1, 2003, NSTAR adopted Financial Accounting Standards
Board (FASB) Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS)
No. 143, "Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations" (SFAS
143). This Statement establishes accounting and reporting
standards for obligations associated with the retirement of
tangible long-lived assets and the associated asset retirement
costs. It applies to legal obligations associated with the
retirement of long-lived assets that result from the acquisition,
construction, development and/or the normal operation of a long-
lived asset, except for certain obligations under lease
arrangements. SFAS 143 requires entities to record the fair
value of a liability for an asset retirement obligation in the
period in which it is incurred. When the liability is initially
recorded, the entity capitalizes the cost by increasing the
carrying amount of the related long-lived asset. Over time, the
liability is accreted to its present value each period, and the
capitalized cost is depreciated over the useful life of the
related asset. Upon settlement of the liability, an entity
either settles the obligation for its recorded amount or incurs a
gain or loss upon settlement.
NSTAR has identified certain insignificant long-lived assets,
including obligations under lease and easement arrangements, and
has determined that it is legally responsible to remove such
property.
For its regulated utility businesses, NSTAR has identified legal
retirement obligations that are currently not material to its
financial statements. The recognition of a potential asset
retirement obligation will have no impact on its earnings. In
accordance with SFAS 71, for NSTAR's regulated utilities, NSTAR
would establish regulatory assets or liabilities to defer any
differences between the liabilities established for ratemaking
purposes and those recorded as required under SFAS 143.
For NSTAR's regulated utility businesses, cost of removal
(negative net salvage) is recognized as a component of
depreciation expense in accordance with approved regulatory
treatment. Since NSTAR applies SFAS 71 to its regulated utility
businesses, it will continue to include removal costs in
depreciation expense and will quantify the removal costs included
in accumulated depreciation as regulatory liabilities in footnote
disclosure. NSTAR estimates that as of June 30, 2003, there is
approximately $232 million of removal costs, not yet incurred,
included in accumulated depreciation.
NSTAR has identified several long-lived assets, in which it has
legal obligations to remove such property, for its non-regulated
businesses. Based on current information and assumptions, NSTAR,
in the first quarter of 2003, recorded an increase in non-utility
plant of approximately $0.6 million, an asset retirement
liability of approximately $1 million and a cumulative effect of
adoption after tax, reducing net income by $0.4 million in 2003.
The cumulative effect adjustment is recorded as part of
Depreciation and amortization expense on the accompanying
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income.
Generating Assets Divestiture
Blackstone Station
On April 8, 2003, Cambridge Electric completed the sale of the
land and buildings constituting Blackstone Station to Harvard
University (Harvard) for $14.6 million; the net proceeds from the
sale were used to reduce Cambridge Electric's transition charge.
The sale by Cambridge Electric was approved by the MDTE during
the first quarter of 2003. Also on April 8, 2003, NSTAR Steam
Corporation (NSTAR Steam) completed the sale of its Blackstone
steam assets to Harvard for $3 million. The net impact of these
transactions resulted in a pretax gain of $1.5 million in the
second quarter of 2003.
Rate and Regulatory Proceedings
a. Pension and Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions
(PBOP)
On April 16, 2003, Boston Edison, Cambridge Electric, ComElectric
and NSTAR Gas (together, "the Company") submitted a request to
the MDTE for approval to establish a reconciliation adjustment
mechanism to provide for the recovery of costs associated with
the Company's obligations to provide its employees pension and
PBOP benefits.
The Company's proposal is intended to give effect to the
accounting treatment previously approved by the MDTE, through a
reconciling ratemaking mechanism that will provide rate stability
and ensure that customers pay no more or no less than the amounts
needed to extend pension and PBOP benefits to the Company's
employees.
The proposed reconciliation adjustment mechanism removes the
volatility in costs that may be the result of requirements of
existing financial accounting standards, provides for more timely
recovery of costs from or refunds of gains to customers, provides
for an annual filing, true-up and review by the MDTE and excludes
pension and PBOP costs from regular distribution rates so that
the MDTE may review them annually.
The MDTE has historically permitted the recovery of prudently
incurred expenditures relating to pension and PBOP benefits for
the Company's employees. The Company consistently contributes
amounts over and above the IRS minimum requirements to trust
funds that hold and invest the contributions until benefits are
paid.
The Company had requested that the MDTE approve the
reconciliation adjustment mechanism by August 1, 2003. In June,
the MDTE notified the Company that it would issue an order on
October 1, 2003. The Company cannot determine the ultimate
outcome of this proceeding.
In November 2002, NSTAR filed a request with the MDTE for an
accounting ruling to mitigate the impact of the non-cash charge
to Other Comprehensive Income (OCI) in 2002 and the increases in
expected pension and PBOP costs in 2003. On December 20, 2002,
the MDTE approved the Accounting Order. Based on this Accounting
Order and an opinion from legal counsel regarding the probability
of recovery of these costs in the future, NSTAR recorded a
regulatory asset in lieu of taking a charge to OCI at December
31, 2002. In addition, the order permits NSTAR to defer, as a
regulatory asset or liability, the difference between the level
of pension and PBOP expense that is included in rates and the
amounts that are required to be recorded under the pension and
PBOP accounting rules beginning in 2003.
As of June 30, 2003, the regulatory asset - pension of $435.4
million, recorded as a result of this accounting ruling, consists
of the prepaid pension asset ($257 million) and includes the
additional minimum liability ($168.7 million) incurred at
December 31, 2002, and the 2003 deferral of pension expenses
allowed under the Accounting Order, of $9.7 million. Regulatory
assets - other includes the 2003 deferral of PBOP expense, per
the Accounting Order, of $3.8 million. These regulatory assets
are shown as part of Deferred debits in the accompanying
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. The ultimate outcome of
this proceeding regarding the reconciliation mechanism mentioned
above could impact the carrying value of these regulatory assets.
This action does not preclude NSTAR's utility companies from
pursuing a general base rate increase in the future. The
companies' four-year rate freeze expires in the third quarter of
this year.
b. Service Quality Index
On February 28, 2003, NSTAR Electric and NSTAR Gas filed their
2002 Service Quality Reports with the MDTE that reflected
significant improvements in reliability and performance; the
reports indicate that no penalty will be assessed for that
period. NSTAR monitors its service quality continuously to
determine its contingent liability, and if it were determined
that a liability has been incurred and is estimable, an
appropriate liability would be accrued. Any MDTE determination
that would result in a different liability (or credit) level from
what has been accrued would be adjusted in the period when such
rate order is issued.
Through June 30, 2003, NSTAR Electric's performance has met or
exceeded the applicable established benchmarks such that no
liability has been accrued; however, these results may not be
indicative of the results that may be expected for the remainder
of the year, including the peak-demand period anticipated during
the summer period.
c. Retail Electric Rates
NSTAR Electric obtains and resells power to retail customers
through either standard offer service or default service for
those who choose not to buy energy from a competitive energy
supplier. Standard offer service will be available to eligible
customers through February 2005 at prices approved by the MDTE,
set at levels so as to guarantee mandatory overall rate
reductions provided by the Restructuring Act. New retail
customers in the NSTAR Electric service territories and other
customers who are no longer eligible for standard offer service
and have not chosen to receive service from a competitive
supplier are provided default service. The price of default
service is intended to reflect the average competitive market
price for power. As of June 30, 2003 and December 31, 2002,
customers of NSTAR Electric had approximately 15% and 27%,
respectively, of their load requirements provided by competitive
suppliers. The decline in customers served by competitive
suppliers was due to changes in market pricing. Approximately
3,500 customers (totaling approximately 500 mw) have moved from
competitive supply to Default Service in the first half of 2003.
d. Natural Gas Rates
NSTAR Gas generates revenues primarily through the sale and/or
transportation of natural gas. Gas sales and transportation
services are divided into two categories: firm, whereby NSTAR Gas
must supply gas and/or transportation services to customers on
demand; and interruptible, whereby NSTAR Gas may, generally
during colder months, temporarily discontinue service to high
volume commercial and industrial customers. Sales and
transportation of gas to interruptible customers do not
materially affect NSTAR Gas' operating income because
substantially all of the margin for such service is returned to
its firm customers as rate reductions.
In addition to delivery service rates, NSTAR Gas' tariffs include
a seasonal Cost of Gas Adjustment Clause (CGAC) and a Local
Distribution Adjustment Clause (LDAC). The CGAC provides for the
recovery of all gas supply costs from firm sales customers or
default service customers. The LDAC provides for the recovery of
certain costs applicable to both sales and transportation
customers. The CGAC is filed semi-annually for approval by the
MDTE. The LDAC is filed annually for approval. In addition,
NSTAR Gas is required to file interim changes to its CGAC factor
when the actual costs of gas supply vary from projections by more
than 5%.
Other Legal Matters
In the normal course of its business, NSTAR and its subsidiaries
are involved in certain legal matters, including civil
litigation. Management is unable to fully determine a range of
reasonably possible court-ordered damages, settlement amounts,
and related litigation costs ("legal liabilities") that would be
in excess of amounts accrued. Based on the information currently
available, NSTAR does not believe that it is probable that any
such additional legal liability will have a material impact on
its consolidated financial position. However, it is reasonably
possible that additional legal liabilities that may result from
changes in estimates could have a material impact on its results
of operations for a reporting period.
Results of Operations - Three Months Ended June 30, 2003 Compared
to Three Months Ended June 30, 2002
The following section of MD&A compares the results of operations
for each of the three month periods ended June 30, 2003 and 2002,
respectively, and should be read in conjunction with the
condensed consolidated financial statements and the accompanying
notes included elsewhere in this report.
Earnings per common share were as follows:
Three Months Ended June 30,
2003 2002
Basic $ 0.74 $ 0.10
Diluted $ 0.73 $ 0.10
Earnings available for common shareholders were $39.2 million, or
$0.74 and $0.73 per basic and diluted common share, respectively,
for the quarter ended June 30, 2003. For the same period in
2002, NSTAR reported earnings available for common shareholders
of $5.2 million, or $0.10 per basic and diluted common share.
Earnings for 2002 include a non-cash, after-tax charge of $27.6
million, or $0.52 per basic share, related to the impairment of
NSTAR's investment in RCN Corporation (RCN) that is further
discussed below. For the current period, the cool spring weather
conditions resulted in increased retail electric and firm gas
sales of 2.5% and 18.7%, respectively, as compared to milder
than normal conditions experienced during the same period in 2002.
This positive effect was partially tempered by the continued
impact on the region of the current economic slowdown. Other
factors contributing to the increase in earnings were a
decrease in operations and maintenance expense of $3.7 million
and an incremental recognition of a deferred income tax
benefit of $2.5 million resulting from a previously established
tax valuation allowance.
In 2002, consistent with the performance of the
telecommunications sector as a whole, the market value of RCN's
common shares was significantly below its carrying value. On
June 19, 2002, NSTAR received an additional 7.5 million shares
from the third and final exchange of its investment in the RCN
joint venture pursuant to an amended Joint Venture Agreement.
The market value of RCN common shares continued to decline during
2002 and had not closed above NSTAR's carrying value of $3.75 per
share since November 27, 2001. As a result, NSTAR recognized a
$27.6 million write-down of its total 11.6 million RCN shares to
a market value of $1.37 per share as of June 30, 2002.
The results of operations for the three-month period ended June
30, 2003 and 2002 are not indicative of the results that may be
expected for the entire year due to the seasonality of electric
and gas sales and revenues and the variability of weather
patterns. Refer to Note A.2, "Basis of Consolidation and
Accounting," in the accompanying Unaudited Condensed Consolidated
Financial Statements.
The following is a summary of electric and gas energy sales for
the periods indicated:
Three Months Ended June 30,
2003 2002 %Change
Retail Electric Sales -
MWH
Residential 1,396,317 1,312,923 6.4
Commercial 2,922,562 2,851,551 2.5
Industrial 411,584 450,770 (8.7)
Other 36,096 34,736 3.9
Total retail sales 4,766,559 4,649,980 2.5
========= =========
Firm Gas Sales - BBTU
Residential 3,422 2,726 25.5
Commercial 2,985 3,110 (4.0)
Industrial and other 1,845 1,117 65.2
Total firm sales 8,252 6,953 18.7
========= =========
Weather conditions impact electric and, to a larger extent, gas
sales in NSTAR's service area. The second quarter of 2003 was
significantly cooler than the same period in 2002 with below
normal temperatures throughout the three-month period. The
average daily temperature during the second quarter of 2003 was
3.3 degrees, or 5.7%, below normal.
Operating revenues
Operating revenues for the second quarter of 2003 increased $54.6
million, or 9%, from the same period in 2002, primarily resulting
from increases in gas and retail electric revenues. The major
revenue component changes were as follows:
(in thousands)
Retail electric revenues $ 47,219
Wholesale electric revenues (13,109)
Gas revenues 17,741
Other revenues 2,789
Increase in operating revenues $ 54,640
=========
Retail electric revenues were $515.1 million in the second
quarter of 2003 compared to $467.9 million in the same period of
2002, an increase of $47.2 million, or 10%. The increase in
retail revenues reflects the 2.5% increase in retail kilowatt-
hour (kWh) sales, which resulted in standard offer and default
service revenues increasing by $19.4 million. Transition
revenues were $11.9 million higher due to an increase in rates.
Transmission revenues increased by $6.1 million partially due to
an increase in the transmission revenue requirement.
Distribution and other retail revenues increased by $10.1 million
due to higher sales. The change in NSTAR Electric's retail
revenues related to standard offer and default services are fully
reconciled to the costs incurred and have no impact on net
income. In addition, in the second quarter of 2003, NSTAR
Electric recorded $8.6 million as an adjustment to previously
established liabilities resulting from the various favorable
regulatory decisions in connection with true-up filings.
As shown in the table above, the 2.5% increase in the current
quarter's retail kWh sales primarily reflects higher sales in the
residential and commercial sectors. NSTAR Electric's sales to
residential and commercial customers were approximately 29% and
62%, respectively, of its total retail sales mix for the current
quarter. The 8.7% decline in industrial sector sales reflects
the continued slowdown in economic conditions that has resulted
in reduced production or facility closings. The industrial
sector comprises approximately 9% of NSTAR's energy sales.
Wholesale electric revenues were $3.8 million in the second
quarter of 2003 compared to $16.9 million in the same period of
2002, a decrease of $13.1 million, or 78%. This decrease in
wholesale revenues reflects the expiration of four wholesale
power supply contracts. After October 31, 2005, NSTAR Electric
will no longer have contracts for the supply of wholesale power.
Amounts collected from wholesale customers are credited to retail
customers through the transition charge. Therefore, the
expiration of these contracts will have no impact on results of
operations.
Gas sales revenues were $80.4 million in the second quarter of
2003 compared to $62.7 million in the same period of 2002, an
increase of $17.7 million, or 28%. The increase in revenues is
attributable to the 18.7% increase in firm sales due to the
significantly cooler weather, the higher cost of gas supply and
additional customers. NSTAR Gas' firm sales to residential,
commercial and industrial and other customers were
approximately 41%, 36% and 23%, respectively, of total firm
sales for the current three-month period.
Other revenues were $48.6 million in the second quarter of 2003
compared to $45.8 million in the same period of 2002, an increase
of $2.8 million, or 6%. This increase primarily reflects higher
unregulated steam revenue as a result of the cooler weather and
increased fuel costs.
Operating expenses
The cost of gas sold, representing NSTAR Gas' supply expense, was
$50.6 million in the second quarter of 2003 compared to $34
million in the same period of 2002, an increase of $16.6 million,
or 49%. The increase was due to the recognition of the higher
cost of gas supply and the significant increase in sales. These
expenses are also fully reconciled to the current level of
revenues collected.
Purchased power costs were $298.8 million in the second quarter
of 2003 compared to $265.9 million in the same period of 2002, an
increase of $32.9 million, or 12%, due to higher retail electric
sales of 2.5% and higher standard offer and default service
supply costs. NSTAR Electric adjusts its electric rates to
collect the costs related to energy supply from customers on a
fully reconciling basis. Due to the rate adjustment mechanisms,
changes in the amount of energy supply expense have no impact on
earnings.
Operations and maintenance expense was $104.9 million in the
second quarter of 2003 compared to $108.6 million in the same
period of 2002, a decrease of $3.7 million, or 3%. This decrease
primarily reflects a reduction in operations and maintenance
expense in connection with improvements made in electric
distribution services in 2002. Partially offsetting this
decrease was approximately $8.6 million in incremental pension-
related and postretirement benefits costs. However, pursuant to
the Accounting Order received from the MDTE in the fourth quarter
of 2002, NSTAR deferred approximately $5.1 million of these
expenses in the second quarter, reducing the net increase in
pension and postretirement expenses by $3.5 million. Refer to
"Rate and Regulatory Proceedings" in this MD&A for further
discussion. The increased level of pension costs and other
postretirement benefit costs will continue through 2003. Also,
bad debt expense increased by $3.8 million due to higher retail
revenue and the negative implications of the downturn in the
economy.
Depreciation and amortization expense was $57.5 million in the
second quarter of 2003 compared to $56.9 million in the same
period of 2002, an increase of $0.6 million, or 1%. The increase
primarily reflects higher depreciable plant in service.
Demand side management (DSM) and renewable energy programs
expense was $15.4 million in the second quarter of both 2003 and
2002. The levels of these expenses are primarily due to timing of
DSM expense, which is consistent with the collection of
conservation and renewable energy revenues. These costs are
collected from customers on a fully reconciling basis and
therefore, fluctuations in program costs have no impact on
earnings. In addition, NSTAR earns incentive amounts in return
for increased customer participation.
Property and other taxes were $22.8 million in the second quarter
of 2003 compared to $24.2 million in the same period of 2002, a
decrease of $1.4 million, or 6%. This decrease was due to a
reduction in overall municipal property taxes due to lowered
fiscal year 2003 municipal property tax rates and assessments and
lower payroll tax expense due to lower payroll costs.
Income taxes attributable to operations were $23.9 million in the
second quarter of 2003 compared to $19.1 million in the same
period of 2002, an increase of $4.8 million, or 25%, reflecting
higher pre-tax operating income.
Other income, net
Other income, net was approximately $6 million in the second
quarter of 2003 compared to expense of $21.7 million in the same
period of 2002, an increase in other income of approximately
$27.7 million. Excluding the 2002 RCN impairment charge of $27.6
million, the second quarter of 2002 reflected other income, net
of $5.9 million. Other income in 2003 includes Cambridge
Electric's and NSTAR Steam's sale of Blackstone Station and its
assets to Harvard University that resulted in a pretax gain of
$1.5 million. Other income also includes the recognition of $4.1
million in deferred income tax benefits related to deferred tax
valuation allowance adjustments recognized in 2003. In 2002,
other income, net included $2.4 million in gains realized on the
sale of demutualized insurance company common shares and $1.6
million related to deferred tax valuation allowance adjustments.
Interest charges
Interest on long-term debt and transition property securitization
certificates was $37.8 million in the second quarter of 2003
compared to $37.3 million in the same period of 2002, an increase
of $0.5 million, or 1%. The increase in interest expense
primarily reflects the impact of the October 15, 2002 Boston
Edison issuance of $400 million of 4.875% 10-year debentures and
$100 million of 3-year floating rate debentures priced at three
month LIBOR plus 50 basis points (at a weighted average interest
rate of 1.80% for the current three-month period). These new
debentures increased interest expense by $5.3 million in the
second quarter of 2003. Partially offsetting this increase was
the absence in 2003 of $1.2 million in interest on Boston
Edison's early redemption of its $60 million 8.25% Debentures in
September 2002 and the repayment of its transition property
securitization certificates of $19.4 million that resulted in
reduced interest expense of $1.1 million. Securitization
interest represents interest on debt collateralized by the future
income stream associated primarily with the stranded costs of the
Pilgrim Unit divestiture. These certificates are non-recourse to
Boston Edison.
Short-term and other interest expense was $3.6 million in the
second quarter of 2003 compared to $4.5 million in the same
period of 2002, a decrease of $0.9 million, or 20%. This
decrease is primarily attributable to both lower borrowing rates
and a lower average level of short-term debt outstanding that
averaged $299.7 million and $557 million in the second quarter of
2003 and 2002, respectively. Interest rates on these borrowings
averaged 1.3% and 1.9%, respectively.
Results of Operations - Six Months Ended June 30, 2003 Compared
to Six Months Ended June 30, 2002
The following section of MD&A compares the results of operations
for each of the six-month periods ended June 30, 2003 and 2002,
respectively, and should be read in conjunction with the
condensed consolidated financial statements and the accompanying
notes included elsewhere in this report.
Earnings per common share were as follows:
Six Months Ended June 30,
2003 2002 % Change
Basic $ 1.54 $ 0.75 105.3
Diluted $ 1.53 $ 0.74 106.8
Earnings available for common shareholders were $81 million, or
$1.54 and $1.53 per basic and diluted common share, respectively,
for the first six months of 2003. For the same period in 2002,
NSTAR reported earnings available for common shareholders of
$39.5 million, or $0.75 and $0.74 per basic and diluted share,
respectively. Factors that contributed to the $42 million, or
103.7%, increase in the current six-months' earnings include the
absence of an impairment charge related to NSTAR's investment in
RCN that occurred in 2002 and the unseasonably cold winter
weather and cool spring conditions in 2003 that resulted in
increased retail electric and firm gas sales of 5.8% and 25.3%,
respectively, as compared to milder than normal conditions
experienced during the same period in 2002. This positive effect
was partially tempered by the continued impact on the region of
the current economic slowdown. Operations and maintenance
expense was nearly level with the prior year. Earnings also
included the incremental recognition of a deferred income tax
benefit of $2.5 million resulting from a previously established
tax valuation allowance.
In 2002, consistent with the performance of the
telecommunications sector as a whole, the market value of RCN's
common shares continued to decrease significantly below its
carrying value. The market value of RCN common shares had not
closed above NSTAR's carrying value of $3.75 per share since
November 27, 2001. As a result, NSTAR recognized a $27.6 million
write-down of its total 11.6 million RCN shares to a market value
of $1.37 per share as of June 30, 2002.
The results of operations for the six-month periods ended June
30, 2003 and 2002, are not indicative of the results that may be
expected for the entire year due to the seasonality of electric
and gas sales and revenues. Refer to Note A.2, "Basis of
Consolidation and Accounting," in the accompanying Condensed
Consolidated Financial Statements.
The following is a summary of electric and gas energy sales for
the periods indicated:
Six Months Ended June 30,
2003 2002 % Change
Retail Electric Sales - MWH
Residential 3,161,250 2,842,757 11.2
Commercial 5,971,018 5,668,781 5.3
Industrial 808,144 876,594 (7.8)
Other 83,499 82,964 0.6
Total retail sales 10,023,911 9,471,096 5.8
========== =========
Firm Gas Sales - BBTU
Residential 15,062 11,939 26.2
Commercial 10,152 9,145 11.0
Industrial and other 5,257 3,241 62.2
Total firm sales 30,471 24,325 25.3
========= =========
Weather conditions impact electric and, to a larger extent during
colder weather, gas sales in NSTAR's service area. The first
half of 2003 was significantly colder than the same period in
2002 with below normal temperatures throughout the current six-
month period. Below is comparative information on heating degree
days for the six-month periods ending June 30, 2003 and 2002 and
the number of degree days in a "normal" half-year period as
represented by a 30-year average. A "degree-day" is a unit
measuring how much the outdoor mean temperature falls below
(heating degree-day) or rises above (cooling degree-day) a base
of 65 degrees. Each degree below or above the base temperature
is measured in one degree day.
Normal
30-Year
2003 2002 Average
Heating degree days 4,245 3,375 3,782
Percentage change from prior year 25.8% (10.8)%
Percentage change from 30-year average 12.2% (10.8)%
Cooling degree days 97 159 176
Percentage change from prior year (39.0)% (42.4)%
Percentage change from 30-year average (44.9)% (9.1)%
Operating revenues
Operating revenues for the first six months of 2003 increased 9%
from the same period in 2002, primarily resulting from increases
in gas and retail electric revenues. The major revenue component
changes were as follows:
(in thousands)
Retail electric revenues $ 16,987
Wholesale electric revenues (22,701)
Gas revenues 106,587
Other revenues 12,094
Increase in operating revenues $ 112,967
==========
Retail electric revenues were $1,007.9 million in the first six-
months of 2003 compared to $990.9 million in the same period of
2002, an increase of $17 million, or 2%. The increase in retail
revenues reflects the 5.8% increase in retail kilowatt-hour (kWh)
sales. Transition revenues were $27.7 million higher due to an
increase in rates. Transmission revenues increased by $12
million partially due to an increase in the transmission revenue
requirement. Distribution revenues increased by $11 million due
to higher sales. Standard offer and default service revenues
declined by $46 million due to lower overall rates. The change
in NSTAR's retail revenues related to standard offer and default
services are fully reconciled to the costs incurred and have no
impact on net income. In addition, in the second quarter of
2003, NSTAR Electric recorded $8.6 million as an adjustment to
previously established liabilities resulting from the various
favorable regulatory decisions in connection with true-up
filings.
As shown in the table above, the 5.8% increase in the current six-
month period's retail kWh sales primarily reflects higher sales
in the residential and commercial sectors. NSTAR Electric's
sales to residential and commercial customers were approximately
32% and 60%, respectively, of its total retail sales mix for the
current period and provided nearly all of its distribution
revenue. The 7.8% decline in industrial sector sales reflects
the continued slowdown in economic conditions that resulted in
reduced production or facility closings. The industrial sector
comprises approximately 8% of NSTAR's energy sales.
Wholesale electric revenues were $13.5 million in the first half
of 2003 compared to $36.2 million in the same period of 2002, a
decrease of $22.7 million, or 63%. This decrease in wholesale
revenues reflects the expiration of four wholesale power supply
contracts. After October 31, 2005, NSTAR Electric will no longer
have contracts for the supply of wholesale power. Amounts
collected from wholesale customers are credited to retail
customers through the transition charge. Therefore, the
expiration of these contracts will have no impact on results of
operations.
Gas sales revenues were $281.1 million in the first half of 2003
compared to $174.5 million in the same period of 2002, an
increase of $106.6 million, or 61%. The increase in revenues is
attributable to the 25.3% increase in firm sales and
transportation due to the significantly colder weather, the
higher cost of gas supply and additional customers. NSTAR Gas'
firm sales to residential, commercial and industrial and other
customers were approximately 50%, 33% and 17%, respectively,
of total firm sales for the current six-month period.
Other revenues were $109.1 million in the first half of 2003
compared to $97 million in the same period of 2002, an increase
of $12.1 million, or 12%. This increase primarily reflects
higher unregulated steam revenue as a result of the significantly
colder weather and higher fuel costs.
Operating expenses
The cost of gas sold, representing NSTAR Gas' supply expense, was
$180.8 million for the first half of 2003 compared to $89.3
million in the same period of 2002, an increase of $91.5 million,
or 102%, due to the recognition of the higher cost of gas supply
and the significant increase in sales. These expenses are fully
reconciled to the current level of revenues collected.
Despite higher retail and wholesale electric sales of 1.2%,
purchased power costs were $602.8 million in the first half of
2003 compared to $606.4 million in the same period of 2002, a
decrease of $3.6 million, or 1%. The decrease is primarily the
result of the recognition of $45.5 million relating to the
deferred standard offer and default service supply costs for
current period under-collection of these costs. NSTAR Electric
adjusts its rates to collect the costs related to energy supply
from customers on a fully reconciling basis. Due to the rate
adjustment mechanisms, changes in the amount of energy supply
expense have no impact on earnings.
Operations and maintenance expense was $214.8 million in the
first half of 2003 compared to $214.9 million in the same period
of 2002, a decrease of $0.1 million, or less than 1%. This
decrease reflects a reduction in operations and maintenance
expenses in connection with improvements made in electric
distribution services in 2002. Offsetting this decline in
expense was an increase of $7.5 million in pension-related and
other postretirement benefits (PBOP) costs. As a result of the
Accounting Order received from the MDTE in the fourth quarter of
2002, NSTAR deferred approximately $13.5 million of additional
pension and PBOP expenses in the first half of 2003. Refer to
"Rate and Regulatory Proceedings" in this MD&A for further
discussion. The increased level of pension costs and other
postretirement benefit costs will continue through 2003. Also,
bad debt expense increased by $6.3 million due to higher energy
sales and the negative implications of the downturn in the
economy.
Depreciation and amortization expense was $119.6 million in the
first half of 2003 compared to $117.5 million in the same period
of 2002, an increase of $2.1 million, or 2%. The increase
primarily reflects higher depreciable plant in service.
DSM and renewable energy programs expense was $32.3 million in
the first half of 2003 compared to $31.9 million in the same
period of 2002, an increase of $0.4 million, or 1%, primarily due
to timing of DSM expense which is consistent with the collection
of conservation and renewable energy revenues. These costs are
collected from customers on a fully reconciling basis and
therefore, fluctuations in program costs have no impact on
earnings. In addition, NSTAR earns incentive amounts in return
for increased customer participation.
Property and other taxes were $49.1 million in the first half of
2003 compared to $51.2 million in the same period of 2002, a
decrease of $2.1 million, or 4%. This decrease was due to lower
payroll tax expense due to lower payroll costs and lower overall
municipal property taxes due to a reduction in fiscal year 2003
municipal property rates and assessments.
Income taxes attributable to operations were $52.4 million in the
first half of 2003 compared to $41.6 million in the same period
of 2002, an increase of $10.8 million, or 26%, reflecting higher
pre-tax operating income.
Other income, net
Other income, net was approximately $6.5 million in the first
half of 2003 compared to expense of approximately $20.2 million
in the same period of 2002, an increase in other income of
approximately $26.7 million. Excluding the $27.5 million write-
down of the RCN investment in 2002, other income for 2002
amounted to $7.4 million. The $0.9 million decrease in 2003
income was due primarily to the absence in the current period of
$3.9 million in gains realized on the sale of demutualized
insurance company common shares offset by the incremental benefit
recognized related to deferred tax valuation allowance
adjustments recognized in 2003. Also in 2003, other income, net
includes Cambridge Electric's and NSTAR Steam's sale of
Blackstone Station and its assets to Harvard University that
resulted in a pretax gain of $1.5 million.
Interest charges
Interest on long-term debt and transition property securitization
certificates was $78.2 million in the first half of 2003 compared
to $75.2 million in the same period of 2002, an increase of $3
million, or 4%. The increase in interest expense primarily
reflects the impact of the October 15, 2002 Boston Edison
issuance of $400 million of 4.875% 10-year debentures and $100
million of 3-year floating rate debentures priced at three month
LIBOR plus 50 basis points (at a weighted average interest rate
of 1.87% for the current six-month period). These new debentures
increased interest expense by $10.7 million in the first half of
2003. Partially offsetting this increase was the absence in 2003
of $2.5 million in interest on Boston Edison's early redemption
of its $60 million 8.25% Debentures in September 2002 and the
repayment of its transition property securitization certificates
of $72 million that resulted in reduced interest expense of $2.2
million. Securitization interest represents interest on debt
collateralized by the future income stream associated primarily
with the stranded costs of the Pilgrim Unit divestiture. These
certificates are non-recourse to Boston Edison.
Short-term and other interest expense was $7.5 million in the
first half of 2003 compared to $10.4 million in the same period
of 2002, a decrease of $2.9 million, or 28%. This decrease is
primarily attributable to both lower borrowing rates and a lower
average level of short-term debt outstanding that averaged $261.1
million and $591.8 million in the first half of 2003 and 2002,
respectively. Interest rates on these borrowings averaged 1.4%
and 1.91%, respectively.
Liquidity
Period to period fluctuations in the levels of net cash provided
by operating activities are not indicative of the results that
may be expected for an entire year. The fluctuations for the six-
month periods ended June 30, 2003 and 2002 are primarily due to
changes in incurred energy costs and the timing of the recovery
levels of energy costs during the period. Changes in other
working capital requirements also impact the comparison of
operating cash flows.
The net cash provided by operating activities for the six-month
period ended June 30, 2003 was $169.6 million as compared to
$352.5 million in 2002. Despite the increase in earnings over
the prior year, the comparison of operating cash flows in 2003
compared to 2002 is impacted by $65 million received in 2002 as
part of the completion of a development project and approximately
$20 million in increased contributions to NSTAR's qualified
pension plan. In addition to these factors, the timing of the
recovery of energy costs reduced operating cash flows by $45.5
million in the six-month period in comparison to 2002. These
energy costs will be recovered with a return from customers in
future periods. There is no impact on earnings from timing of
the recovery of energy costs.
The net cash used in investing activities of $120.9 million
consists primarily of capital expenditures related to
transmission and distribution systems and the expansion of
NSTAR's Advanced Energy System's, Inc. MATEP generating facility.
The net cash used in financing activities of $86.3 million
reflects long-term debt redemptions and sinking fund payments of
$203.3 million, dividends paid of $58.3 million, net short-term
borrowings of $25.9 million and the proceeds from the issuance of
a $150 million term loan.
The IRS has completed its audit of Commonwealth Energy System's
income tax returns for the years 1997, 1998, and 1999 with the
exception of making a decision on the issue of the gain on the
sale of the generating assets. The IRS examining agents have
filed a Request for Technical Advice with the IRS National Office
with regard to this issue. The request was received by the
National Office on June 5, 2003. Although this request was filed
under the new IRS procedures intended to result in an expedited
response, a final decision may not occur until early October
2003. Should NSTAR's position be challenged as a result of the
IRS Request for Technical Advice, it is probable that NSTAR will
make a payment to the IRS of approximately $60 million in order
to stop the accrual of interest on the potential tax deficiency.
NSTAR intends to vigorously defend its position, which is
supported by an opinion from an independent tax advisor, relative
to this transaction and anticipates pursuing a refund of the
amount paid plus interest. In addition, NSTAR would pursue
regulatory rate recovery for the interest on tax deficiencies
should any amounts ultimately be incurred as a result of this
transaction. It is probable that any amounts incurred as a
result of this transaction will be fully recovered from NSTAR's
customers.
For the first half of 2003, actual capital spending was
approximately $139.5 million primarily including system
reliability infrastructure improvement projects incurred by NSTAR
Electric and Gas operations and expenditures in connection with
Advanced Energy Systems' generation expansion project. Capital
investments in 2003 are expected to be $286 million.
NSTAR's projected primary uses of cash for 2003 include capital
expenditures, dividend payments and debt reductions. In the
first half of 2003, debt financing activities included the
retirement of $150 million of Boston Edison's 6.8% Debentures,
$36.4 million in securitization certificates and ComElectric's
7.43% $15 million Term Loan.
Future capital spending programs and the related estimates are
subject to revision due to changes in regulatory requirements,
changes in transmission and distribution system requirements,
environmental standards, availability and cost of capital,
interest rates and other assumptions. Management continuously
reviews its capital expenditure and financing programs.
Sources of Additional Capital and Financial Covenant
Requirements
NSTAR and Boston Edison have no financial covenant requirements
under their respective long-term debt arrangements. ComElectric,
Cambridge Electric and NSTAR Gas have financial covenant
requirements under their long-term debt arrangements and were in
compliance at June 30, 2003 and December 31, 2002. NSTAR's long-
term debt other than the Mortgage Bonds of NSTAR Gas is
unsecured.
The Transition Property Securitization Certificates held by
Boston Edison's subsidiary, BEC Funding, LLC, are collaterized
with a securitized regulatory asset with a balance of $459.5
million as of June 30, 2003. Boston Edison, as servicing agent
for BEC Funding, collected $53.5 million in the first half of
2003. These collected funds are remitted daily to the trustee of
BEC Funding. These Certificates are non-recourse to Boston
Edison.
NSTAR has a credit facility of $350 million that consists of a
three year, $175 million revolving credit agreement that expires
on November 14, 2005 and a 364-day, $175 million agreement that
expires on November 14, 2003. At June 30, 2003 and December 31,
2002, there were no amounts outstanding under these revolving
credit agreements. These arrangements serve as backup to NSTAR's
$350 million commercial paper program that, at June 30, 2003 and
December 31, 2002, had $16.5 million and $63.5 million
outstanding, respectively. In October 2002, following receipt of
the proceeds of Boston Edison's $500 million debt issue, the
proceeds were used to pay down short-term debt balances. Under
the terms of this credit agreement, NSTAR is required to maintain
a maximum total consolidated debt to total capitalization ratio
of not greater than 65% at all times, excluding Transition
Property Securitization Certificates, and excluding Accumulated
other comprehensive income (loss) from Common equity, and to
maintain a ratio of consolidated earnings before interest and
taxes to consolidated total interest expense of not less than 2
to 1 for each period of four consecutive fiscal quarters.
Commitment fees must be paid on the total agreement amount. At
June 30, 2003 and December 31, 2002, NSTAR was in full compliance
with all of the aforementioned covenants.
Boston Edison has approval from the FERC to issue short-term debt
securities from time to time on or before December 31, 2004, with
maturity dates no later than December 31, 2005, in amounts such
that the aggregate principal does not exceed $350 million at any
one time. Boston Edison has a credit facility with a 364-day,
$350 million revolving credit agreement that expires on November
14, 2003. At June 30, 2003, there was no amount outstanding
under this revolving credit agreement. These arrangements serve
as backup to Boston Edison's $350 million commercial paper
program that had a $208 million balance at June 30, 2003 and no
outstanding balance at December 31, 2002. In October 2002,
following receipt of the proceeds of its $500 million debt issue,
its short-term debt balance was reduced to zero. Under the terms
of this agreement, Boston Edison is required to maintain certain
debt to capitalization ratios. At June 30, 2003 and December 31,
2002, Boston Edison was in full compliance with all of its
covenants in connection with its short-term credit facilities.
In addition, ComElectric, Cambridge Electric and NSTAR Gas,
collectively, have $165 million available under several lines of
credit and had zero and $135.1 million outstanding under these
lines of credit at June 30, 2003 and December 31, 2002,
respectively. ComElectric and Cambridge Electric have FERC
authorization to issue short-term debt securities from time to
time on or before November 30, 2004 and June 27, 2004, with
maturity dates no later than November 29, 2005 and June 26, 2005,
respectively, in amounts such that the aggregate principal does
not exceed $125 million and $60 million, respectively, at any one
time. NSTAR Gas is not required to seek approval from FERC to
issue short-term debt.
In May 2003, ComElectric entered into a $150 million, three-year
variable rate unsecured Term Loan with a group of banks. The net
proceeds were used to repay outstanding short-term debt balances.
NSTAR's goal is to maintain a capital structure that preserves an
appropriate balance between debt and equity. Management believes
its liquidity and capital resources are sufficient to meet its
current and projected requirements.
Other Events
On July 14, 2003, Mirant Corporation and certain of its
subsidiaries (Mirant) filed voluntary petitions for relief under
Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code. Mirant
currently supplies, among other services, standard offer service
for approximately 13% of NSTAR Electric's standard offer load.
Due to the nature of the relationship with Mirant, NSTAR does not
expect an impact to its earnings.
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market
Risk
NSTAR's exposure to financial market risk results primarily from
fluctuations in interest rates. On May 14, 2003, Commonwealth
Electric entered into a $150 million, three-year variable rate
unsecured term loan with a group of banks priced at LIBOR plus
62.5 basis points. An immediate change of one percent on this
term loan would cause a change in interest expense of
approximately $1.5 million per year.
Item 4. Controls and Procedures
NSTAR's disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure
that information required to be disclosed in reports that it
files or submits under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 is
recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time
periods specified in the rules and forms of the Securities and
Exchange Commission.
NSTAR carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with
the participation of NSTAR's management, including NSTAR's Chief
Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the
effectiveness of the design and operation of NSTAR's disclosure
controls and procedures pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 13a-15 as
of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on that
evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial
Officer concluded that NSTAR's disclosure controls and procedures
were effective (1) to timely alert them to material information
relating to NSTAR's information required to be disclosed by NSTAR
in the reports that it files or submits under the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934 and (2) to ensure that appropriate
information is recorded, processed, summarized and reported
within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange
Commission's rules and forms.
During the most recent fiscal quarter, there have been no
significant changes in NSTAR's internal control over financial
reporting that materially affected, or are reasonably likely to
materially affect, internal control over financial reporting.
Part II - Other Information
Item 1. Legal Proceedings
In the normal course of its business, NSTAR and its subsidiaries
are involved in certain legal matters, including civil
litigation. Management is unable to fully determine a range of
reasonably possible court-ordered damages, settlement amounts,
and related litigation costs ("legal liabilities") that would be
in excess of amounts accrued. Based on the information currently
available, NSTAR does not believe that it is probable that any
such additional legal liability will have a material impact on
its consolidated financial position. However, it is reasonably
possible that additional legal liabilities that may result from
changes in estimates could have a material impact on its results
of operations for a reporting period.
Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K
a) Exhibits:
Exhibit 4 - Instruments Defining the Rights of Security
Holders, Including Indentures
- Management agrees to furnish to the Securities
and Exchange Commission, upon request, a copy
of any agreement or instrument defining the
rights of holders of any long-term debt whose
authorization does not exceed 10% of total
assets.
Exhibits filed herewith:
Exhibit 15 - Letter Re Unaudited Interim Financial
Information
15.1 PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP Consent
Exhibit 31 - Rule 13a - 15/15d-15(e) Certifications
31.1 Certification Statement of Chief Executive
Officer of NSTAR pursuant to Section 302 of
the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
31.2 Certification Statement of Chief Financial
Officer of NSTAR pursuant to Section 302 of
the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
Exhibit 32 - Section 1350 Certifications
32.1 Certification Statement of Chief Executive
Officer of NSTAR pursuant to Section 906 of
the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
32.2 Certification Statement of Chief Financial
Officer of NSTAR pursuant to Section 906 of
the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
Exhibit 99 - Additional Exhibits
99.1 Report of Independent Accountants
b) Reports on Form 8-K:
A report on Form 8-K was filed on April 18, 2003 by NSTAR on
behalf of its utility subsidiaries for their regulatory filing
for approval by the MDTE to establish a reconciliation adjustment
mechanism to provide for the recovery of costs associated with
NSTAR's obligations to provide its employees pension and
postretirement benefits other than pensions.
A report on Form 8-K was filed/furnished on May 1, 2003 that
announced NSTAR's financial and operating results for the first
quarter of 2003.
Signature
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed
on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
NSTAR
(Registrant)
Date: August 11, 2003 /s/ R. J. WEAFER, JR.
Robert J. Weafer, Jr.
Vice President, Controller
and Chief Accounting Officer