23
MidAmerican Energy Company ("MidAmerican Energy") is a public utility with electric and natural gas operations and is the principal subsidiary within MidAmerican Funding, LLC ("MidAmerican Funding").
Managements Discussion and Analysis ("MD&A") addresses the financial statements of MidAmerican Funding and MidAmerican Energy as presented in this joint filing. Information in MD&A related to MidAmerican Energy, whether or not segregated, also relates to MidAmerican Funding. Information related to other subsidiaries of MidAmerican Funding pertains only to the discussion of the financial condition and results of operations of MidAmerican Funding. Where necessary, discussions have been segregated and labeled to allow the reader to identify information applicable only to MidAmerican Funding.
MD&A should be read in conjunction with the financial statements included in this Form 10-Q and the notes to those statements, together with MD&A in MidAmerican Energys and MidAmerican Fundings most recently filed Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Forward-Looking Statements
From time to time, MidAmerican Funding, or one of its subsidiaries individually, including MidAmerican Energy, may make forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws that involve judgments, assumptions and other uncertainties beyond the control of MidAmerican Funding or any of its subsidiaries individually. These forward-looking statements may include, among others, statements concerning revenue and cost trends, cost recovery, cost reduction strategies and anticipated outcomes, pricing strategies, changes in the utility industry, planned capital expenditures, financing needs and availability, statements of MidAmerican Fundings expectations, beliefs, future plans and strategies, anticipated events or trends and similar comments concerning matters that are not historical facts. These
type of forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and involve a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause the actual results and performance of MidAmerican Funding to differ materially from any expected future results or performance, expressed or implied, by the forward-looking statements. In connection with the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, MidAmerican Funding has identified important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expectations, including weather effects on sales volumes and revenues, fuel prices, fuel transportation and other operating uncertainties, acquisition uncertainty, uncertainties relating to economic and political conditions and uncertainties regarding the impact of regulations, changes in government policy, utility industry deregulation and competition. Neither MidAmerican Funding, nor any one of its subsidiaries individually, assumes any responsibility to updat
e forward-looking information contained herein.
Executive Summary
The following significant events and changes, as discussed in more detail herein, highlight some factors that had, or will have, an effect on MidAmerican Energys and MidAmerican Fundings operating results, liquidity and capital resources:
-
In September 2004, the Iowa legislature passed legislation adopting a federal tax provision into Iowa law that provides accelerated tax depreciation for certain assets acquired after May 5, 2003 and before January 1, 2005. Accordingly, as a result of Iowa regulatory rules for utility income taxes, MidAmerican Energys income tax expense for 2004 will be reduced, but this lower cost will be largely offset by increased revenue sharing included in depreciation expense;
MidAmerican Energy is currently constructing three electric generation projects in Iowa and expects to invest approximately $1.4 billion in the projects through 2007. Through September 30, 2004, approximately $541 million of the $1.4 billion has been invested. On October 4, 2004, the President signed into law legislation that extends the federal production tax credit to electricity produced by wind energy facilities placed in service prior to January 1, 2006. Accordingly, MidAmerican Energy has begun construction on its $323 million wind power project, one of the three projects in progress;
On October 1, 2004, MidAmerican Energy issued $350 million of 4.65% medium-term notes due October 1, 2014. The proceeds will be used to for general corporate purposes.
24
Results of Operations for the Quarter Ended September 30, 2004 and 2003
Earnings Overview
MidAmerican Energys earnings on common stock increased $1.8 million to $65.8 million for the third quarter of 2004 compared to $64.0 million for the third quarter of 2003. MidAmerican Fundings net income increased $2.2 million to $59.6 million for the third quarter of 2004 compared to $57.4 million for the third quarter of 2003.
Following is a discussion of various factors that affected earnings. Explanations include management's best estimate of the impact of weather, customer growth and other factors.
Regulated Electric Gross Margin
|
|
Quarter Ended |
|
|
|
September 30, |
|
|
|
2004 |
|
2003 |
|
|
|
(In millions) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating revenues |
|
$ |
391.8 |
|
$ |
422.6 |
|
Less cost of fuel, energy and capacity |
|
|
91.8 |
|
|
123.3 |
|
Electric gross margin |
|
$ |
300.0 |
|
$ |
299.3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Electric gross margin for the third quarter of 2004 increased $0.7 million compared to the third quarter of 2003. The improvement in electric gross margin was attributable to a $6.1 million increase in net margin on MidAmerican Energys sales and purchases of electric capacity, a $1.1 million increase in gross margin on wholesale sales and a $1.0 million increase in transmission revenues. These increases were largely offset by a $7.8 million decrease in gross margin on electric retail sales.
The decrease in gross margin on electric retail sales was due principally to a 2.1% decrease in retail sales volumes principally as a result of cooler temperature conditions. The effect of temperature conditions during the third quarter of 2004 compared to the third quarter of 2003 resulted in approximately a $21.3 million decrease in electric retail gross margin. Electricity usage factors not dependent on weather, such as changes in individual customer usage patterns, increased electric margin by $7.2 million compared to the third quarter of 2003 while an increase in the average number of retail customers improved electric retail gross margin by $4.6 million. Additionally, a reduction in fuel costs related to Iowa retail electric sales increased electric retail gross margin by $1.7 million compared to the third quarte
r of 2003.
Sales of energy to other utilities, municipalities and marketers inside and outside of MidAmerican Energy's delivery system are classified as wholesale. Gross margin on electric wholesale energy sales increased $1.1 million for the third quarter of 2004 compared to the third quarter of 2003. This increase is comprised of improved margins per unit sold, which increased electric wholesale gross margin by $8.9 million, partially offset by a 26.3% decrease in wholesale sales volumes, which decreased wholesale gross margin by $7.8 million.
Regulated Gas Gross Margin
|
|
Quarter Ended |
|
|
|
September 30, |
|
|
|
2004 |
|
2003 |
|
|
|
(In millions) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating revenues |
|
$ |
117.2 |
|
$ |
110.9 |
|
Less cost of gas sold |
|
|
82.5 |
|
|
76.1 |
|
Gas gross margin |
|
$ |
34.7 |
|
$ |
34.8 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Regulated gas revenues include purchased gas adjustment clauses through which MidAmerican Energy is allowed to recover the cost of gas sold from its retail gas utility customers. Consequently, fluctuations in the cost of gas sold do not affect gross margin or net income because revenues reflect comparable fluctuations through the purchased gas adjustment clauses. Compared to the third quarter of 2003, MidAmerican Energys average per-unit cost of gas increased 22.5%, resulting in a $15.2 million increase in cost of gas sold for the quarter. That increase was partially offset by a decrease in retail and wholesale sales volumes.
25
Although wholesale sales can substantially affect revenues and cost of gas sold, they do not affect gas gross margin because most of the margin on such sales is passed on to retail customers through the purchased gas adjustment clauses. The portion of such margins retained by MidAmerican Energy through sharing arrangements under applicable state regulations and tariffs is reflected as nonregulated revenues.
The following table summarizes the variance in gas operating revenues, including the impact of the fluctuation in the cost of gas sold. The variances in gas operating revenues other than the fluctuation in cost of gas have the same impact on gross margin.
|
|
Quarter Ended |
|
Increase (Decrease) in Gas |
|
September 30, |
|
Operating Revenues |
|
2004 vs. 2003 |
|
|
|
|
(In millions) |
|
Change in cost of gas sold: |
|
|
|
|
Price |
|
$ |
15.2 |
|
Sales volumes |
|
|
(8.8) |
|
Total |
|
|
6.4 |
|
Weather |
|
|
(0.9) |
|
Customer growth |
|
|
0.6 |
|
Other usage factors |
|
|
(0.6) |
|
Energy efficiency cost recovery |
|
|
0.9 |
|
Other |
|
|
(0.1) |
|
Total revenue variance |
|
$ |
6.3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
The decrease in gas gross margin due to weather was the result of mild temperature conditions in the third quarter of 2004 compared to the same quarter in 2003. Other gas usage factors, such as changes in individual customer usage patterns and reaction to prices, also decreased gas margin. MidAmerican Energy's average number of gas retail customers increased 1.3% compared to the third quarter of 2003.
Regulated Operating Expenses
Regulated other operating expenses for the third quarter of 2004 increased $2.8 million compared to the third quarter of 2003 due to a $2.3 million increase in energy efficiency program expenses. Changes in energy efficiency program expenses are substantially matched by changes in related revenues recovered through a rider mechanism.
Depreciation and amortization expense for the third quarter of 2004 increased $15.4 million compared to the third quarter of 2003 due principally to a $17.0 million increase in regulatory expense related to a revenue sharing arrangement in Iowa. Refer to the "Legislative and Utility Regulatory Matters" section for an explanation of the revenue sharing arrangement.
26
Nonregulated Gross Margin
|
|
Quarter Ended |
|
|
|
September 30, |
|
|
|
2004 |
|
2003 |
|
|
|
(In millions) |
MidAmerican Energy - |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nonregulated operating revenues |
|
$ |
56.3 |
|
$ |
42.6 |
|
Less nonregulated cost of sales |
|
|
48.4 |
|
|
36.1 |
|
Nonregulated gross margin |
|
$ |
7.9 |
|
$ |
6.5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
MidAmerican Funding Consolidated - |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nonregulated operating revenues |
|
$ |
57.5 |
|
$ |
43.8 |
|
Less nonregulated cost of sales |
|
|
48.7 |
|
|
36.4 |
|
Nonregulated gross margin |
|
$ |
8.8 |
|
$ |
7.4 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nonregulated gross margin increased due to a $1.9 million increase in gross margin for nonregulated electric and gas wholesale operations, offset partially by a $0.6 million decrease in nonregulated electric retail margin.
Electric retail customers in Illinois, except for those served by electric cooperatives and municipalities, are allowed to select their electric power supplier. MidAmerican Energy's nonregulated electric retail revenues include revenues related to these supply services provided to customers outside of MidAmerican Energy's delivery system who choose their energy supplier. Nonregulated electric retail revenues increased $11.0 million to $28.4 million for the third quarter of 2004, while the related cost of sales increased $11.6 million to $25.1 million. The reduction in the related gross margin was due to a decrease in margin per unit sold partially offset by an increase in sales volumes in the third quarter of 2004 compared to the third quarter of 2003.
Other Income
MidAmerican Energy -
As a regulated public utility, MidAmerican Energy is allowed to capitalize, and record as income, a cost of construction for equity funds used, based on guidelines set forth by the FERC. Other income for the capitalized allowance on equity funds used during construction totaled $5.2 million and $2.2 million in the third quarter of 2004 and 2003, respectively. MidAmerican Energy anticipates recording a significant amount of income for the allowance on equity funds used during construction through 2007 while the announced generating plants are constructed.
Other income also includes net earnings related to the cash surrender value of corporate-owned life insurance policies. Related net earnings increased $0.6 million to $1.4 million for the third quarter of 2004 compared to the third quarter of 2003.
Fixed Charges
The decrease in interest on long-term debt was due to maturities of higher rate debt in 2003. Other interest expense increased due to interest on the Iowa revenue sharing liability. Allowance for borrowed funds increased due to increased utility construction expenditures.
Income Taxes
In September 2004, the Iowa legislature passed legislation adopting a federal tax provision into Iowa law that provides accelerated tax depreciation for certain assets acquired after May 5, 2003 and before January 1, 2005. Accordingly, as a result of Iowa regulatory rules for utility income taxes, MidAmerican Energys income taxes for the third quarter of 2004 were reduced by approximately $9.5 million.
27
Results of Operations for the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2004 and 2003
Earnings Overview
MidAmerican Energys earnings on common stock improved $3.7 million to $158.7 million for the first nine months of 2004 compared to $155.0 million for the first nine months of 2003. MidAmerican Fundings net income increased $1.6 million to $135.7 million for the first nine months of 2004 compared to $134.1 million for the first nine months of 2003.
Regulated Electric Gross Margin
|
|
Nine Months |
|
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
|
2004 |
|
2003 |
|
|
|
(In millions) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating revenues |
|
$ |
1,099.3 |
|
$ |
1,066.8 |
|
Less cost of fuel, energy and capacity |
|
|
305.5 |
|
|
294.1 |
|
Electric gross margin |
|
$ |
793.8 |
|
$ |
772.7 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Electric gross margin for the first nine months of 2004 increased $21.1 million compared to the first nine months of 2003 due primarily to a $14.4 million increase in electric wholesale gross margin. Additionally, net margin on MidAmerican Energys sales and purchases of electric capacity increased $9.7 million and revenues from transmission services increased $2.6 million compared to the first nine months of 2003. These increases were partially offset by a $5.2 million decrease in gross margin on electric retail sales mainly as a result of higher fuel costs.
Sales of energy to other utilities, municipalities and marketers inside and outside of MidAmerican Energy's delivery system are classified as wholesale. Gross margin on electric wholesale energy sales increased $14.4 million for the first nine months of 2004 compared to the first nine months of 2003 due to improved margins per unit sold, which increased electric wholesale gross margin by $14.8 million.
Higher fuel costs related to Iowa retail electric sales decreased electric retail gross margin by $12.6 million compared to the first nine months of 2003. A majority of the increase in fuel costs was for purchases of higher priced power to replace energy from plants taken out of service in 2004 for preventive maintenance. Additionally, the Iowa portion of two events in 2003 accounted for a significant amount of the increase from 2003 to 2004. First, $10.9 million of cost recovery was recognized in the second quarter of 2003 for MidAmerican Energys coal purchase contract with Enron Corp. ("Enron") following resolution of related Enron bankruptcy proceedings. Second, $5.1 million of expense was recognized in the second quarter of 2003 related to the write-off of the remaining value of failed nuclear fuel assemblies
at Quad Cities Station.
In total, electric retail sales volumes increased 2.3% for the first nine months of 2004 compared to the first nine months of 2003. Electricity usage factors not dependent on weather, such as changes in individual customer usage patterns, increased electric margin by $19.8 million compared to the first nine months of 2003. A 1.1% increase in the average number of retail customers improved electric gross margin by $13.7 million. The effect of temperature conditions, principally during the third quarter of 2004, resulted in a $22.2 million decrease in electric retail gross margin. The decrease in sales volumes due to temperature conditions primarily affected residential customers. Accordingly, a greater portion of total electric retail sales volumes in the first nine months of 2004 were to lower-priced commercial and ind
ustrial customers than in the first nine months of 2003. Due in part to this shift in sales mix, the average retail rate per unit sold decreased compared to the first nine months of 2003, which reduced electric retail gross margin by $5.2 million.
28
Regulated Gas Gross Margin
|
|
Nine Months |
|
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
|
2004 |
|
2003 |
|
|
|
(In millions) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating revenues |
|
$ |
684.4 |
|
$ |
679.7 |
|
Less cost of gas sold |
|
|
526.7 |
|
|
517.4 |
|
Gas gross margin |
|
$ |
157.7 |
|
$ |
162.3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Regulated gas revenues include purchased gas adjustment clauses through which MidAmerican Energy is allowed to recover the cost of gas sold from its retail gas utility customers. Consequently, fluctuations in the cost of gas sold do not affect gross margin or net income because revenues reflect comparable fluctuations through the purchased gas adjustment clauses. MidAmerican Energys average per-unit cost of gas increased 2.8% compared to the first nine months of 2003, resulting in a $14.2 million increase in cost of gas sold. The increase in cost of gas sold was reduced by a decrease in gas retail sales volumes partially offset by an increase in wholesale sales volumes compared to the first nine months of 2003.
Although wholesale sales can substantially affect revenues and cost of gas sold, they do not affect gas gross margin because most of the margin on such sales is passed on to retail customers through the purchased gas adjustment clauses. The portion of such margins retained by MidAmerican Energy through sharing arrangements under applicable state regulations and tariffs is reflected as nonregulated revenues.
The following table summarizes the variance in gas operating revenues, including the impact of the fluctuation in the cost of gas sold. The variances in gas operating revenues other than the fluctuation in cost of gas have the same impact on gross margin.
|
|
Nine Months |
|
Increase (Decrease) in Gas |
|
Ended September 30, |
|
Operating Revenues |
|
2004 vs. 2003 |
|
|
|
(In millions) |
|
Change in cost of gas sold: |
|
|
|
|
Price |
|
$ |
14.2 |
|
Sales volumes |
|
|
(4.9) |
|
Total |
|
|
9.3 |
|
Weather |
|
|
(4.8) |
|
Weather derivative |
|
|
2.1 |
|
Customer growth |
|
|
3.2 |
|
Other usage factors |
|
|
(3.8) |
|
Other |
|
|
(1.3) |
|
Total revenue variance |
|
$ |
4.7 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
The decrease in gas gross margin due to weather was the result of milder temperature conditions in the first nine months of 2004 compared to the same period in 2003. MidAmerican Energy may enter into degree day swaps to offset a portion of the financial impact of variations in weather conditions on its delivery margins for the winter heating season. The net gain on such weather derivative financial instruments partially offset the decreased delivery margins. MidAmerican Energy's average number of gas retail customers increased 1.3% compared to the first nine months of 2003. Other gas usage factors, such as changes in individual customer usage patterns and reaction to prices, also decreased gas margin. Total natural gas retail sales volumes decreased 7.4%.
29
Regulated Operating Expenses
Regulated other operating expenses for the first nine months of 2004 increased $11.5 million compared to the first nine months of 2003. Electric transmission and distribution operating expenses increased $8.2 million due in part to payments to other utilities for the transmission of energy and higher storm damage repair costs. Additionally, fossil fuel generation and Quad Cities Station operating expenses increased $6.2 million compared to the first nine months of 2003. A $3.0 million decrease in deferred compensation expenses partially offset these increases.
Maintenance expenses increased $16.6 million compared to the first nine months of 2003 due principally to a $12.5 million increase in fossil fuel generation preventive maintenance. Additionally, distribution maintenance costs increased $3.0 million.
Depreciation and amortization expense for the first nine months of 2004 increased $19.1 million compared to the first nine months of 2003 due to an increase in regulatory expense related to a revenue sharing arrangement in Iowa offset partially by a decrease in regulatory expense for a revenue sharing arrangement in Illinois. Refer to the "Legislative and Utility Regulatory Matters" section for an explanation of the revenue sharing arrangements.
Nonregulated Gross Margin
|
Nine Months |
|
|
Ended September 30, |
|
|
2004 |
|
2003 |
|
|
(In millions) |
MidAmerican Energy - |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nonregulated operating revenues |
$ |
195.4 |
|
$ |
180.5 |
|
Less nonregulated cost of sales |
|
170.9 |
|
|
156.8 |
|
Nonregulated gross margin |
$ |
24.5 |
|
$ |
23.7 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
MidAmerican Funding Consolidated - |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nonregulated operating revenues |
$ |
199.2 |
|
$ |
183.1 |
|
Less nonregulated cost of sales |
|
171.9 |
|
|
157.3 |
|
Nonregulated gross margin |
$ |
27.3 |
|
$ |
25.8 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Electric retail customers in Illinois, except for those served by electric cooperatives and municipalities, are allowed to select their electric power supplier. MidAmerican Energy's nonregulated electric retail revenues include revenues related to these supply services provided to customers outside of MidAmerican Energy's delivery system who choose their energy supplier. The improvement in the related gross margin was due primarily to a 53.7% increase in sales volumes. The increase from sales volumes was mostly offset by a reduction in the margin per unit sold in the first nine months of 2004 compared to the first nine months of 2003. Nonregulated electric retail revenues increased $21.9 million to $70.3 million for the first nine months of 2004, while the related cost of sales increased $20.4 million to $60.1 million.
Gross margin on nonregulated electric and gas wholesale operations increased $2.3 million compared to the first nine months of 2003.
Nonregulated operations include earnings from sharing arrangements under applicable state regulations and tariffs filed with the Iowa Utilities Board ("IUB") and the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission for MidAmerican Energy's regulated natural gas operations. Under these arrangements, MidAmerican Energy is allowed to retain a portion of the benefits of gas wholesale sales and capacity release transactions. Earnings from these arrangements decreased $2.5 million for the first nine months of 2004 compared to the first nine months of 2003.
Interest and Dividend Income
Interest income decreased compared to the first nine months of 2003 due to a reduction in MidAmerican Energy's short-term investments.
30
Other Income
MidAmerican Energy -
As a regulated public utility, MidAmerican Energy is allowed to capitalize, and record as income, a cost of construction for equity funds used, based on guidelines set forth by the FERC. Other income for the capitalized allowance on equity funds used during construction totaled $13.0 million and $8.7 million in the first nine months of 2004 and 2003, respectively. MidAmerican Energy anticipates recording a significant amount of income for the allowance on equity funds used during construction through 2007 while the announced generating plants are constructed.
MidAmerican Funding -
Other income for the first nine months of 2004 includes $2.1 million of income from the receipt of cash and common stock distributed by several of MidAmerican Funding's venture capital fund investments. Income from equity method investments decreased $1.8 million compared to the first nine months of 2003. Other expense for the first nine months of 2003 reflects a $2.1 million impairment of a separate venture capital investment.
Fixed Charges
The decrease in interest on long-term debt was due to maturities of higher rate debt in 2003 offset partially by interest on $275 million of MidAmerican Energy 5.125% notes issued in January 2003. Other interest expense increased due to interest on the Iowa revenue sharing liability. Allowance for borrowed funds increased due to an increase in utility construction expenditures.
Income Taxes
During the first quarter of 2004, MidAmerican Energy settled an income tax audit with the Internal Revenue Service. Accordingly, MidAmerican Energy recorded as income a tax reserve previously established for the settled issue. As a result, income tax expense for the first nine months of 2004 was reduced by $8.5 million at MidAmerican Energy.
A significant portion of the tax reserve was originally established in 1999 when MidAmerican Energy's parent company, MHC Inc., was acquired by MidAmerican Funding. This change in estimate of an income tax uncertainty that resulted from a purchase business combination was accounted for as an adjustment to the remaining balance of goodwill attributable to the acquisition. Accordingly, in the first quarter of 2004, MidAmerican Funding decreased goodwill and increased income tax expense by $4.7 million to reflect the settlement of that portion of the income tax liability recognized at the time of the acquisition of MHC.
In September 2004, the Iowa legislature passed legislation adopting a federal tax provision into Iowa law that provides accelerated tax depreciation for certain assets acquired after May 5, 2003 and before January 1, 2005. Accordingly, as a result of Iowa regulatory rules for utility income taxes, MidAmerican Energys income taxes for the first nine months of 2004 were reduced by approximately $9.5 million.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
MidAmerican Energy and MidAmerican Funding have available a variety of sources of liquidity and capital resources, both internal and external. These resources provide funds required for current operations, construction expenditures, dividends, debt retirement and other capital requirements.
As reflected on the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, MidAmerican Energys net cash provided by operating activities was $495.1 million and $437.8 million for the first nine months of 2004 and 2003, respectively. MidAmerican Fundings net cash provided by operating activities was $457.4 million and $407.7 million for the first nine months of 2004 and 2003, respectively.
31
Utility Construction Expenditures
MidAmerican Energys primary need for capital is utility construction expenditures. For the first nine months of 2004, utility construction expenditures totaled $424.2 million, including allowance for funds used during construction and Quad Cities Station nuclear fuel purchases. Utility construction expenditures include non-cash and accrued amounts, the most significant of which for the first nine months of 2004 is $57.6 million for MidAmerican Energys share of deferred payments related to the second generation project discussed below. Under a contract with the general contractor on that project, MidAmerican Energy is allowed to defer payments, including the other owners shares, for up to $200 million of billed construction costs through the end of the project. Another non-cash expenditure included in
utility construction expenditures relates to a computed cost of equity funds. As a regulated public utility, MidAmerican Energy is allowed to capitalize, and record as income, a cost of construction for equity funds used, based on guidelines set forth by the FERC.
Forecasted utility construction expenditures, including allowance for funds used during construction and completion of the wind power project discussed below, are $765 million for 2004. Capital expenditure needs are reviewed regularly by management and may change significantly as a result of such reviews. MidAmerican Energy expects to meet these capital expenditures with cash flows from operations and the issuance of long-term debt.
MidAmerican Energy anticipates a continuing increase in demand for electricity from its regulated customers. To meet anticipated demand and ensure adequate electric generation in its service territory, MidAmerican Energy is currently constructing three electric generating projects in Iowa. Upon completion, the projects will provide service to regulated retail electricity customers. MidAmerican Energy has obtained regulatory approval to include the actual costs of the generation projects in its Iowa rate base as long as actual costs do not exceed the agreed caps that MidAmerican Energy has deemed to be reasonable. If the caps are exceeded, MidAmerican Energy has the right to demonstrate the prudence of the expenditures above the caps, subject to regulatory review. Wholesale sales may also be made from the projects to th
e extent the power is not needed for regulated retail service. MidAmerican Energy expects to invest approximately $1.4 billion in the three projects, of which approximately $541 million has been invested through September 30, 2004.
The first project is a natural gas-fired combined cycle unit with an estimated cost of $357 million, excluding allowance for funds used during construction. MidAmerican Energy will own and operate the plant. Commercial operation of the simple cycle mode began on May 5, 2003. The plant, which has operated in simple cycle mode during 2004, resulted in 327 megawatts ("MW") of accredited capacity in the summer of 2004. The combined cycle operation is expected to commence by December 2004 and achieve an expected additional accredited capacity of 190 MW.
The second project is currently under construction and will be a 790-MW (based on expected accreditation) super-critical-temperature, low-sulfur coal-fired plant. MidAmerican Energy will operate the plant and hold an undivided ownership interest as a tenant in common with the other owners of the plant. MidAmerican Energy's ownership interest is 60.67%, equating to 479 MW of output. MidAmerican Energy expects its share of the estimated cost of the project to be approximately $713 million, excluding allowance for funds used during construction. Municipal, cooperative and public power utilities will own the remainder, which is a typical ownership arrangement for large base-load plants in Iowa. On May 29, 2003, the IUB issued an order approving the ratemaking principles for the plant, and on June 27, 2003, MidAme
rican Energy received a certificate from the IUB allowing MidAmerican Energy to construct the plant. On September 9, 2003, MidAmerican Energy began construction of the plant, which it expects to be completed in the summer of 2007. MidAmerican Energy is also seeking an order from the IUB approving construction of the associated transmission facilities.
The third project consists of wind power facilities totaling 310 MW based on the nameplate rating. Generally speaking, accredited capacity ratings for wind power facilities are considerably less than the nameplate ratings due to the varying nature of wind. The current projected accredited capacity for these wind power facilities is approximately 53 MW. MidAmerican Energy will own and operate these facilities, which are expected to cost approximately $323 million. MidAmerican Energys plan to construct the wind project is in conjunction with a settlement agreement that extends, through December 31, 2010, an Iowa retail electric rate freeze that was previously scheduled to expire at the end of 2005. The settlement agreement, which was filed with the IUB as part of MidAmerican Energys application for ratem
aking principles for the wind project, was approved by the IUB on October 17, 2003. MidAmerican Energy has also received authorization from the IUB to construct the wind power project. The settlement agreement provides that the obligation of MidAmerican Energy to construct the wind project may be terminated by MidAmerican Energy if the federal production tax credit applicable to the wind energy facilities is not available at a rate of 1.8 cents per kWh for a period of at least ten years after the facilities begin generating electricity. On October 4, 2004, the President signed into law legislation that extends the federal production tax credit to electricity produced by wind energy facilities placed in service prior to January 1, 2006. The credit is allowable for production during the 10-year period after a facility is originally placed in service. Accordingly, MidAmerican Energy has begun construction of the wind power facilities and anticipates approximately one half of the facilities will be gen
erating electricity by the end of 2004. The remaining facilities are expected to be completed by the middle of 2005. MidAmerican Energy does not construct the wind power facilities by December 31, 2006, the rate extension from January 1, 2006 through December 31, 2010, may terminate. Refer to the "Rate Matters" discussion below for more information regarding the rate aspects of the settlement.
32
Nuclear Decommissioning
Each licensee of a nuclear facility is required to provide financial assurance for the cost of decommissioning its licensed nuclear facility. In general, decommissioning of a nuclear facility means to safely remove the facility from service and restore the property to a condition allowing unrestricted use by the operator.
MidAmerican Energy currently contributes $8.3 million annually to trusts established for the investment of funds for decommissioning Quad Cities Station. Approximately 70% of the fair value of the trusts funds is now invested in domestic corporate debt and common equity securities. The remainder is invested in investment grade municipal and U.S. Treasury bonds. Funding for Quad Cities Station nuclear decommissioning is reflected as depreciation expense in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Quad Cities Station decommissioning costs charged to Iowa customers are included in base rates, and recovery of increases in those amounts must be sought through the normal ratemaking process.
Contractual Obligations and Commercial Commitments
MidAmerican Energy and MidAmerican Funding have various contractual obligations and commercial commitments. There have been no material changes in the amount of such obligations and commitments from what was disclosed in the "Liquidity and Capital Resources" section of MD&A in MidAmerican Energys and MidAmerican Fundings most recently filed Form 10-K other than electric capacity commitments as disclosed in Note 3(d) of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in this Form 10-Q.
Debt Redemption and Issuance
MidAmerican Energys 7.7% series of mortgage bonds, totaling $55.6 million, matured on May 17, 2004. On October 1, 2004, MidAmerican Energy issued $350 million of 4.65% medium-term notes due October 1, 2014. The proceeds will be used for general corporate purposes.
Debt Authorizations and Credit Facilities
MidAmerican Energy has authority from the FERC to issue through April 14, 2005, short-term debt in the form of commercial paper and bank notes aggregating $500 million. MidAmerican Energy currently has in place a $370.4 million revolving credit facility that supports its $250 million commercial paper program and its variable rate pollution control revenue obligations. The facility expires January 13, 2005.
After reflecting the issuance of the $350 million of medium-term notes described above, MidAmerican Energy has the following authorizations to issue additional long-term securities. MidAmerican Energy currently has on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission registration statements providing for the issuance of $530 million in various forms of senior and subordinated long-term debt and preferred securities. MidAmerican Energy currently has authorization from the FERC to issue various forms of long-term debt in the amount of $530 million through November 30, 2004, and $455 million for December 1, 2004 through November 30, 2005. Under the FERC authorization, such funds would be used to refinance ma
turing debt and to finance a portion of the cost of the generation projects noted above. MidAmerican Energy currently has authority from the Illinois Commerce Commission ("ICC") to issue up to $545 million of long-term debt for refinancing purposes and capital expenditures.
In conjunction with the March 1999 merger, MidAmerican Energy committed to the IUB to use commercially reasonable efforts to maintain an investment grade rating on its long-term debt and to maintain its common equity level above 42% of total capitalization unless circumstances beyond its control result in the common equity level decreasing to below 39% of total capitalization. MidAmerican Energy must seek the approval of the IUB of a reasonable utility capital structure if MidAmerican Energy's common equity level decreases below 42% of total capitalization, unless the decrease is beyond the control of MidAmerican Energy. MidAmerican Energy is also required to seek the approval of the IUB if MidAmerican Energy's equity level decreases to below 39%, even if the decrease is due to circumstances beyond the control of MidAm
erican Energy. If MidAmerican Energy's common equity level were to drop below the required thresholds, MidAmerican Energy's ability to issue debt could be restricted.
Other Financing Information
MidAmerican Funding or one of its subsidiaries, including MidAmerican Energy, may from time to time seek to retire its outstanding debt through cash purchases and/or exchanges for other securities, in open market purchases, privately negotiated transactions or otherwise. The repurchases or exchanges, if any, will depend on prevailing market conditions, the issuing companys liquidity requirements, contractual restrictions and other factors. The amounts involved may be material.
Credit Ratings Risks
Debt and preferred securities of MidAmerican Funding and MidAmerican Energy are rated by nationally recognized credit rating agencies. Assigned credit ratings are based on each rating agencys assessment of MidAmerican Fundings or MidAmerican Energys ability to, in general, meet the obligations of the debt or preferred securities issued by the rated company. The credit ratings are not a recommendation to buy, sell or hold securities, and there is no assurance that a particular credit rating will continue for any given period of time. Other than the energy trading agreements discussed below, neither MidAmerican Funding nor MidAmerican Energy has any credit agreements that require termination or a material change in collateral requirements or payment schedule in the event of a downgrade in the credit rat
ings of the respective companys securities.
In conjunction with its wholesale marketing and trading activities, MidAmerican Energy must meet credit quality standards as required by counterparties. MidAmerican Energy has energy trading agreements that, in accordance with industry practice, either specifically require it to maintain investment grade credit ratings or provide the right for counterparties to demand "adequate assurances" in the event of a material adverse change in MidAmerican Energys creditworthiness. If one or more of MidAmerican Energys credit ratings decline below investment grade, MidAmerican Energy may be required to post cash collateral, letters of credit or other similar credit support to facilitate ongoing wholesale marketing and trading activities. As of September 30, 2004, MidAmerican Energys estimated potential coll
ateral requirements totaled approximately $87 million. MidAmerican Energys collateral requirements could fluctuate considerably due to seasonality, market price volatility, a loss of key MidAmerican Energy generating facilities or other related factors.
Legislative and Utility Regulatory Matters
Electric Deregulation
Under Illinois law, as of December 31, 2000, all non-residential customers in Illinois are allowed to select their provider of electric supply services. Residential customers all received the opportunity to select their electric supplier beginning May 1, 2002. Currently in Iowa, deregulation is not being actively pursued.
Rate Matters
Under two settlement agreements approved by the IUB, MidAmerican Energys overall Iowa retail electric rates are effectively frozen through December 31, 2010. The settlement agreements specifically allow the filing of electric rate design or cost of service rate changes that could result in changes to rates for specific classes of customers but are intended to keep MidAmerican Energys overall Iowa retail electric revenue unchanged. The settlement agreements also each provide that portions of revenues associated with Iowa retail electric returns on equity within specified ranges will be recorded as a regulatory liability to be used to offset a portion of the cost to Iowa customers of future generating plant investment.
Under the first settlement agreement, which was approved by the IUB on December 21, 2001, and is effective through December 31, 2005, an amount equal to 50% of revenues associated with returns on equity between 12% and 14%, and 83.33% of revenues associated with returns on equity above 14%, in each year is recorded as a regulatory liability. The second settlement agreement, which was filed in conjunction with MidAmerican Energys application for ratemaking principles on a wind power project and was approved by the IUB on October 17, 2003, provides that during the period January 1, 2006 through December 31, 2010, an amount equal to 40% of revenues associated with returns on equity between 11.75% and 13%, 50% of revenues associated with returns on equity between 13% and 14%, and 83.3% of revenues asso
ciated with returns on equity above 14%, in each year will be recorded as a regulatory liability. An amount equal to the regulatory liability is recorded as a regulatory charge in depreciation and amortization expense when the liability is accrued. Additionally, interest expense is accrued on the portion of the regulatory liability balance recorded in prior years. The liability is being reduced as it is credited against plant in service in amounts equal to the allowance for funds used during construction associated with generating plant additions. As a result of the credit applied to generating plant balances from the reduction of the regulatory liability, future depreciation will be reduced. As of September 30, 2004 and December 31, 2003, the related regulatory liability reflected on the Consolidated Balance Sheets was $206.1 million and $144.4 million, respectively.
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The second settlement agreement also provides that if Iowa retail electric returns on equity fall below 10% in any consecutive 12-month period after January 1, 2006 through December 31, 2010, MidAmerican Energy may seek to file for a general increase in rates. However, prior to filing for a general increase in rates, MidAmerican Energy is required by the settlement agreement to conduct 30 days of good faith negotiations with all of the signatories to the settlement agreement to attempt to avoid a general increase in rates.
In an order issued September 27, 2004, the IUB requires MidAmerican Energy to file various plans to fully equalize and consolidate its class zonal electric rates by the end of each of the years 2007 through 2010. On October 18, 2004, MidAmerican Energy filed a request for rehearing opposing full rate equalization and proposing a series of rate reductions. The resulting decreases in revenues from some of the reductions would be offset by costs decreasing pursuant to the expiration of certain contracts. However, MidAmerican Energy is seeking to reduce rates for some residential customers by approximately $4.0 million in 2008 and $3.0 million in 2009 for a total annualized reduction of $7.0 million in addition to the reductions to be offset by cost decreases related to existing contracts.
Illinois bundled electric rates are frozen until 2007, subject to certain exceptions allowing for increases, at which time bundled rates are subject to cost-based ratemaking. Illinois law provides for Illinois earnings above a computed level of return on common equity to be shared equally between regulated retail electric customers and MidAmerican Energy. MidAmerican Energys computed level of return on common equity is based on a rolling two-year average of the Monthly Treasury Long-Term Average Rate, as published by the Federal Reserve System, plus a premium of 8.5% for 2000 through 2004 and a premium of 12.5% for 2005 and 2006. The two-year average above which sharing must occur for 2004 is 13.57%. The law allows MidAmerican Energy to mitigate the sharing of earnings above the threshold return on common equity
through accelerated recovery of electric assets.
On April 2, 2004, MidAmerican Energy made a filing with the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission ("SDPUC") requesting an increase in rates for its retail natural gas customers. On August 26, 2004, the SDPUC approved a settlement stipulation between MidAmerican Energy and the SDPUC staff for an increase of $1.0 million annually, effective September 30, 2004.
The ICC staff has questioned the legality of MidAmerican Energys nonregulated sales of gas to retail customers within the State of Illinois in conjunction with purchased gas adjustment ("PGA") reconciliation proceedings. In its direct testimony in the PGA proceeding covering 2001, the ICC staff expressed its position that MidAmerican Energy must reduce gas costs recovered from Illinois regulated gas customers through the PGA by the gross margins earned from MidAmerican Energys Illinois nonregulated retail customers from 2001, or approximately $1.0 million. Gross margin is the difference between the revenue and the related cost of gas for MidAmerican Energys nonregulated sales of gas to retail customers in the entire State of Illinois. If a similar adjustment is made in subsequent PGA reconciliation pr
oceedings, the total cumulative adjustment, including the adjustment for 2001, would be approximately $6.7 million. In a related proceeding, the ICC issued a declaratory ruling on May 11, 2004, finding that MidAmerican Energy cannot lawfully sell competitive, or nonregulated, gas anywhere in Illinois. In that same decision, the ICC decided to open a separate proceeding to determine an appropriate remedy for such sales. That matter is now before the ICC on rehearing.
The Illinois legislature passed a bill, SB 2525 that, if enacted into law, would allow the continuation of competitive gas sales in Illinois by MidAmerican Energy subject to ICC regulation. The Senate approved the bill on a 55 to 0 vote. The House of Representatives approved the bill on a 104 to 7 vote. On July 30, 2004, the Illinois Governor vetoed the bill. The Illinois legislature could reconsider the bill in a legislative session currently scheduled for November 2004. For any vetoed bill to become law in Illinois, it must pass both chambers by 60% majorities. Regardless of whether or not any such legislation passes, the ICC will resolve the historical issues in the on-going PGA proceedings.
Transmission Developments
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission ("FERC") has undertaken several measures to increase competition in the markets for wholesale electric energy, including efforts to foster the development of regional transmission organizations ("RTO") in its Order No. 2000 issued December 1999 and its July 2002 proposed rulemaking that would implement a standard market design ("SMD") for wholesale electric markets.
If implemented, the FERCs July 2002 proposed rule for SMD would require sweeping changes to the use and expansion of the interstate transmission and wholesale bulk power systems in the United States. However, it is unclear when or even whether the FERC will issue a final rule and what form the final rule would ultimately take. In response to significant criticism of its proposed rule, the FERC subsequently indicated that it had changed its proposal and would adopt a flexible approach to SMD that would accommodate regional differences. Any final rule on SMD or similar FERC action may impact the costs of MidAmerican Energys electricity and transmission products. Such FERC action could directly or indirectly influence how transmission services are priced, the availability of transmission services, and how tran
smission services are obtained. In addition, the FERC could affect how wholesale electricity is bought and sold, as well as the geographic scope of the wholesale marketplace in which MidAmerican Energy buys and sells electricity. MidAmerican Energy recognizes there is considerable uncertainty as to the timing and outcome of these transmission policy issues and will continue to evaluate evolving FERC policies. Transferring the operations and control of MidAmerican Energys transmission assets to other entities could increase costs for MidAmerican Energy; however, the actual effect of any such transaction on MidAmerican Energys future transmission costs, or alternate RTO strategies, is not yet known.
On June 3, 2004, the FERCs Division of Operational Investigations of the Office of Market Oversight and Investigations informed MidAmerican Energy that it was commencing an audit to determine whether and how MidAmerican Energy and its subsidiaries and affiliates are complying with (1) requirements of the standards of conduct and open access same-time information system of the FERCs regulations; (2) Codes of Conduct; and (3) Transmission Practices. The FERC has commenced several such audits of utilities in 2003 and 2004. The audit is on-going, and MidAmerican Energy does not expect it to be completed for several months.
Environmental Matters
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency ("EPA") and state environmental agencies have determined that contaminated wastes remaining at decommissioned manufactured gas plant facilities may pose a threat to the public health or the environment if these contaminants are in sufficient quantities and at sufficient concentrations as to warrant remedial action.
MidAmerican Energy has evaluated or is evaluating 27 properties that were, at one time, sites of gas manufacturing plants in which it may be a potentially responsible party. The purpose of these evaluations is to determine whether waste materials are present, whether the materials constitute an environmental or health risk, and whether MidAmerican Energy has any responsibility for remedial action. As of September 30, 2004, MidAmerican Energy has recorded a $10.7 million liability for these sites and a corresponding regulatory asset for future recovery through the regulatory process. Refer to Note 3(a) of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in this Form 10-Q for further discussion of MidAmerican Energys environmental activities related to manufactured gas plant sites and cost recovery.
Although the timing of potential incurred costs and recovery of costs in rates may affect the results of operations in individual periods, management believes that the outcome of these issues will not have a material adverse effect on MidAmerican Energys financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
MidAmerican Energys generating facilities are subject to applicable provisions of the Clean Air Act and related air quality standards promulgated by the EPA. The Clean Air Act provides the framework for regulation of certain air emissions and permitting and monitoring associated with those emissions. MidAmerican Energy believes it is in material compliance with current air quality requirements. Refer to Note 3(b) of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in this Form 10-Q for further discussion of air quality standards affecting MidAmerican Energy.
In August 2003, retail customer usage of electricity caused a new record hourly peak demand of 3,935 MW on MidAmerican Energys electric system. For the 2004 cooling season, MidAmerican Energys hourly peak demand was 3,894 MW on July 20, 2004. MidAmerican Energy is interconnected with Iowa and neighboring utilities and is involved in an electric power pooling agreement known as Mid-Continent Area Power Pool ("MAPP"). Each MAPP participant is required to maintain for emergency purposes a net generating capability reserve of at least 15% above its system peak demand. For the 2004 cooling season, MidAmerican Energys reserve was approximately 26% above its system peak demand.
MidAmerican Energy believes it has adequate electric capacity reserve through 2004 and continues to manage its generating resources to ensure an adequate reserve in the future. However, significantly higher-than-normal temperatures during the cooling season could cause MidAmerican Energys reserve to fall below the 15% minimum. If MidAmerican Energy fails to maintain the appropriate reserve, significant penalties could be contractually imposed by MAPP.
MidAmerican Energy is financially exposed to movements in energy prices since it does not recover its energy costs through an energy adjustment clause in Iowa. Although MidAmerican Energy believes it has sufficient generation under typical operating conditions for its retail electric needs, a loss of adequate generation by MidAmerican Energy requiring the purchase of replacement power at a time of high market prices could subject MidAmerican Energy to losses on its energy sales.
On July 13, 2004, the FERC issued an order requiring MidAmerican Energy to conduct a study to determine whether MidAmerican Energy or its affiliates possess generation market power. MidAmerican Energy is being required to show the absence of generation market power in order to be allowed to continue to sell wholesale electric power at market-based rates. The FERC order is intended to have MidAmerican Energy conform to what has become the FERCs general practice for utilities given authorization to make wholesale market-based sales. Under this general practice, utilities authorized to make market-based electric sales must submit a new market power study to the FERC every three years. In its order, the FERC has stated that MidAmerican Energys market-based sales will become subject to refund beginning November 1, 2004. The refund obligation will then extend until the conclusion of the proceeding. MidAmerican Energy does not expect any outcome of this issue to have a material effect on its results of operations, financial position or cash flows.
The transmission developments addressed under "Legislative and Utility Regulatory Matters" above also can impact MidAmerican Energy's wholesale electric purchases and sales. In addition, efforts underway to form organized markets for the sale of energy may also impact the price MidAmerican Energy pays for wholesale electricity as well as the prices it receives for wholesale sales. The FERC has other proceedings underway which may influence the wholesale electric marketplace. Because of the uncertainties as to future regulatory policy governing transmission service and pricing, and regulation of wholesale electric sales, MidAmerican Energy is uncertain whether past wholesale costs and revenues will be representative of future wholesale costs and revenues.
New Accounting Pronouncements
In January 2003, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued FASB Interpretation No. 46, "Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities, an Interpretation of Accounting Research Bulletin No. 51" ("FIN No. 46"). FIN No. 46 requires certain variable interest entities to be consolidated by the primary beneficiary of the entity if the equity investors in the entity do not have the characteristics of a controlling financial interest, or do not have sufficient equity at risk for the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support from other parties. In December 2003, the FASB issued FASB Interpretation No. 46R, which served to clarify guidance in FIN No. 46. The provisions of FIN No. 46, as revised, were effective for public entities that had interests in variable interest entiti
es or potential variable interest entities commonly referred to as special-purpose entities for periods ending after December 15, 2003. Application by public entities for all other types of entities is required in financial statements for periods ending after March 15, 2004. MidAmerican Energy has considered the provisions of FIN No. 46R for all of its power purchase, power sale or tolling agreements. Factors considered in the analysis include the duration of the agreements, how capacity and energy payments are determined, source and payment for fuel, as well as responsibility and payment for operating and maintenance expenses. Based upon this analysis, it was determined that no change in accounting for such agreements was necessary under FIN No. 46R.
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In May 2004, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position No. 106-2 ("FSP 106-2"), "Accounting and Disclosure Requirements Related to the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003" ("Act"). The Act introduces a prescription drug benefit under Medicare (Medicare Part D) as well as a federal subsidy to sponsors of postretirement health care benefit plans that provide a benefit that is at least actuarially equivalent to Medicare Part D. When adopted, FSP 106-2 will supersede FSP 106-1, "Accounting and Disclosure Requirements Related to the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003," which was issued in January 2004 and permitted a sponsor of a postretirement health care plan that provides a prescription drug benefit to make a one-time election to defe
r accounting for the effects of the Act until more authoritative guidance on the accounting for the federal subsidy was issued, which MidAmerican Energy so elected. FSP 106-2 provides authoritative guidance on the accounting for the federal subsidy and specifies the disclosure requirements for employers who have adopted FSP 106-2, including those who are unable to determine whether benefits provided under its plan are actuarially equivalent to Medicare Part D. MidAmerican Energy has determined that the effects of the Act are not significant to its postretirement plan and therefore do not constitute a significant event, as that term is defined in Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 106, "Employers Accounting for Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions." As such, MidAmerican Energy will adopt FSP 106-2 at its next measurement date, January 1, 2005.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
MidAmerican Energys and MidAmerican Fundings significant accounting policies are described in their respective Note (1) of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8 of their most recently filed Annual Report on Form 10-K. For a discussion of their critical accounting policies and estimates, see "Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" in their most recently filed Annual Report on Form 10-K. MidAmerican Energys and MidAmerican Fundings critical accounting policies have not changed materially since December 31, 2003.
MidAmerican Energys exposure to market risk has not changed materially from its risk as of December 31, 2003. The scope of its use of financial instruments for both hedging and proprietary trading purposes has also not changed materially from December 31, 2003. MidAmerican Energy trades financial instruments that are almost entirely exchange-traded or have prices that are actively quoted. Reference is made to MidAmerican Energys and MidAmerican Fundings most recently filed Form 10-K, and in particular, Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk, and Notes (1) (i) and (9) in Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8 of that report.
With the supervision and participation of MidAmerican Fundings and MidAmerican Energys management, including the respective persons acting as chief executive officer and chief financial officer, each company performed an evaluation regarding the effectiveness of the design and operation of its disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) promulgated under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) as of September 30, 2004. Based on that evaluation, MidAmerican Fundings and MidAmerican Energys management, including the respective persons acting as chief executive officer and chief financial officer, concluded that their respective disclosure controls and procedures were effective. There have been no significant changes during the quarter covered by this report i
n MidAmerican Fundings or MidAmerican Energys internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect internal controls.
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MidAmerican Energy is one of dozens of companies named as defendants in a January 20, 2004 consolidated class action lawsuit filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. The suit alleges that the defendants have engaged in unlawful manipulation of the prices of natural gas futures and options contracts traded on the New York Mercantile Exchange ("NYMEX") during the period of January 1, 2000 to December 31, 2002. MidAmerican Energy is mentioned as a company that has engaged in wash trades on Enron Online (an electronic trading platform) that had the effect of distorting prices for gas trades on the NYMEX. The plaintiffs to the class action do not specify the amount of alleged damages. At this time MidAmerican Energy does not believe that it has any material exposure in this laws
uit.
The original complaint in this matter, Cornerstone Propane Partners, L.P. v. Reliant, et al. ("Cornerstone"), was filed on August 18, 2003 in the United States District Court, Southern District of New York naming MidAmerican Energy. On October 1, 2003, a second complaint , Roberto, E. Calle Gracey, et al. ("Calle Gracey"), was filed in the same court but did not name MidAmerican Energy. On November 14, 2003, a third complaint, Dominick Viola ("Viola"), et al., was filed in the same court and named MidAmerican Energy as a defendant. On December 5, 2003, the court entered Pretrial Order No. 1, which among other procedural matters, ordered the consolidation of the Cornerstone, Calle Gracey and Viola complaints and permitted plaintiffs to file an amended complaint in this matter. On January 20, 2004, plaintiffs filed In Re: Natural Gas Commodity Litiga
tion as the amended complaint reasserting their previous allegations. On February 19, 2004, MidAmerican Energy filed a Motion to Dismiss and joined with several other defendants to file a joint Motion to Dismiss. The plaintiffs filed a response on May 19, 2004, contesting both Motions to Dismiss. On September 24, 2004, the pending motions to dismiss were denied. MidAmerican Energy will continue to coordinate with the other defendants and vigorously defend the allegations against it.
Other than the litigation described above, MidAmerican Funding and its subsidiaries currently have no material legal proceedings. Information on MidAmerican Energys environmental matters is included in the "Environmental Matters" section of MD&A in Item 2 of this Form 10-Q. Information regarding MidAmerican Energy's regulatory matters is included in the "Legislation and Utility Regulatory Matters" section of MD&A in Item 2 of this Form 10-Q.
Item 2. |
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds. |
Not applicable.
Item 3. |
Defaults Upon Senior Securities. |
Not applicable.
Item 4. |
Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders. |
Not applicable.
None.
Reference is made to the accompanying Exhibit Index for a list of exhibits filed as a part of this Quarterly Report.
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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.
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MIDAMERICAN FUNDING, LLC |
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MIDAMERICAN ENERGY COMPANY |
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(Registrants) |
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Date: November 4, 2004 |
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/s/ Patrick J. Goodman |
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Patrick J. Goodman |
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Vice President and Treasurer |
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of MidAmerican Funding, LLC |
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(principal financial and accounting officer) |
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/s/ Thomas B. Specketer |
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Thomas B. Specketer |
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Vice President and Controller |
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of MidAmerican Energy Company |
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(principal financial and accounting officer) |
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Exhibit No.
MidAmerican Energy
15 |
Awareness Letter of Registered Public Accounting Firm |
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31.1 |
Chief executive officer certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 |
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31.2 |
Chief financial officer certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 |
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32.1 |
Chief executive officer certification pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 |
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32.2 |
Chief financial officer certification pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 |
MidAmerican Funding
31.3 |
Chief executive officer certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 |
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31.4 |
Chief financial officer certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 |
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32.3 |
Chief executive officer certification pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 |
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32.4 |
Chief financial officer certification pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 |
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