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EX-32.2 - EXHIBIT 32.2 - FAR EAST ENERGY CORPex32_2.htm
EX-31.1 - EXHIBIT 31.1 - FAR EAST ENERGY CORPex31_1.htm
EX-31.2 - EXHIBIT 31.2 - FAR EAST ENERGY CORPex31_2.htm
EX-32.1 - EXHIBIT 32.1 - FAR EAST ENERGY CORPex32_1.htm


UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C.  20549

FORM 10-Q
(Mark One)
x
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
 
For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2011
 
OR
 
o  
   TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES  EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
Commission File Number 0-32455

Far East Energy Corporation
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)

Nevada
 
88-0459590
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
 
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

363 N. Sam Houston Parkway East, Suite 380, Houston, Texas 77060
(Address of principal executive offices)(Zip Code)
832-598-0470
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)

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 has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).   Yes ¨  No  ¨
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company.  See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer" and "smaller reporting company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
 
Large accelerated filer ¨
Accelerated filer  ¨
Non-accelerated filer  ¨
Smaller reporting company  x
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes  ¨ No  x

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes of common stock as of May 3, 2011.
 
UTitle of each classU
UNumber of sharesU
Common Stock, par value $0.001 per share
342,209,884
 


 
 

 

FAR EAST ENERGY CORPORATION
(A Development Stage Company)

PART I.
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
UPage No.U
       
 
ITEM 1.
Financial Statements (Unaudited)
   
         
     
3
         
     
4
         
     
5
         
     
6
         
     
7
         
 
ITEM 2.
 
21
         
 
ITEM 3.
 
34
         
 
ITEM 4.
 
34
         
PART II.
OTHER INFORMATION
   
       
 
ITEM 1A.
 
35
         
 
ITEM 2.
 
38
         
 
ITEM 6.
 
38
         
   
39
       
   
40


PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FAR EAST ENERGY CORPORATION
(A Development Stage Company)
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In Thousands, Except Share Data)
 
   
March 31,
2011
   
December 31,
2010
 
             
ASSETS            
Current assets:
           
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 33,906     $ 27,760  
Accounts receivable
    56       25  
Inventory
    643       304  
Prepaid expenses
    253       304  
Deposits
    102       101  
Total current assets
    34,960       28,494  
                 
Unevaluated oil and gas properties
    54,222       50,094  
Other fixed assets,net
    833       637  
Total property and equipment
    55,055       50,731  
                 
Deferred financing costs
    -       31  
Total assets
  $ 90,015     $ 79,256  
                 
                 
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY                
                 
Current liabilities:
               
Accounts payable
  $ 6,623     $ 10,613  
Accrued liabilities
    11,715       9,072  
Exchangeable note payable
    3,200       9,958  
Total current liabilities
    21,538       29,643  
                 
Asset retirement and environmental obligations
    521       491  
                 
Commitments and contingencies (Note 7)
               
                 
Stockholders' equity:
               
Preferred stock, $0.001 par value,500,000,000 shares authorized, none outstanding
    -       -  
Common stock, $0.001 par value, 500,000,000 shares authorized,342,224,857 and 291,202,928 issued and outstanding at March 31,2011 and December 31, 2010 respectively
    342       291  
Additional paid-in capital
    174,041       149,378  
Unearned compensation
    (1,128 )     (167 )
Deficit accumulated during the development stage
    (105,299 )     (100,380 )
Total stockholders' equity
    67,956       49,122  
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
  $ 90,015     $ 79,256  
 
See the accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.


FAR EAST ENERGY CORPORATION
(A Development Stage Company)
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(In Thousands, Except Per Share Data)
(Unaudited)

   
Three Months Ended
March 31,
   
February 4, 2000
(Inception) through
 
   
2011
   
2010
   
March 31, 2011
 
                   
Operating revenues:
                 
Sales of gas
  $ 23     $ -     $ 23  
Other, net
    8       -       8  
      31       -       31  
Operating expenses:
                       
Exploration costs
    1,677       1,033       38,319  
Lease operating expense
    766       485       10,865  
General and administrative
    2,128       1,714       50,905  
Impairment loss
    -       -       3,778  
Loss on investment in joint venture
    -       -       22  
Amortization of contract rights
    -       -       81  
Total operating expenses
    4,571       3,232       103,970  
Operating loss
    (4,540 )     (3,232 )     (103,939 )
Other income (expense):
                       
Interest expense
    (198 )     (280 )     (2,373 )
Interest income
    1       -       1,881  
Gain (loss) on sale of assets
    -       -       2  
Foreign currency transaction loss
    (182 )     (12 )     (870 )
Total other income
    (379 )     (292 )     (1,360 )
Loss before income taxes
    (4,919 )     (3,524 )     (105,299 )
Income taxes
    -       -       -  
Net loss
  $ (4,919 )   $ (3,524 )   $ (105,299 )
                         
Comprehensive loss
  $ (4,919 )   $ (3,524 )   $ (105,299 )
                         
Net loss per share:
                       
Basic and diluted
  $ (0.02 )   $ (0.02 )        
                         
Weighted average shares outstanding:
                       
Basic and diluted
    305,818       176,407          

See the accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.


FAR EAST ENERGY CORPORATION
(A Development Stage Company)
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
(In Thousands Except Share Data)
 (Unaudited)
 
                           
Deficit
       
                           
Accumulated
       
   
Common Stock
   
Additional
         
During the
   
Total
 
   
Number of
   
Par
   
Paid-In
   
Unearned
   
Development
   
Stockholders'
 
   
Shares
   
Value
   
Capital
   
Compensation
   
Stage
   
Equity
 
                                     
For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2011                                    
                                     
Balance at December 31, 2010
    291,202,928     $ 291     $ 149,378     $ (167 )   $ (100,380 )   $ 49,122  
Net loss
                                    (4,919 )     (4,919 )
Common shares issued
    34,880,599       35       16,701       -       -       16,736  
Stock issued for note conversion
    14,315,789       14       6,786       -       -       6,800  
Nonvested shares issued
    1,859,800       2       1,086       (961 )     -       127  
Nonvested shares withheld for taxes
    (34,259 )     -       (20 )     -       -       (20 )
Stock options issued
    -       -       110       -       -       110  
Balance at March 31, 2011
    342,224,857     $ 342     $ 174,041     $ (1,128 )   $ (105,299 )   $ 67,956  
                                                 
For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2010                                                
                                                 
Balance at December 31, 2009
    173,836,960     $ 174     $ 111,982     $ (279 )   $ (84,207 )   $ 27,670  
Net loss
    -       -       -       -       (3,524 )     (3,524 )
Nonvested shares issued
    11,655,116       11       4,585       -       -       4,596  
Nonvested shares withheld for taxes
    -       -       -       83       -       83  
Stock options issued
    (71,217 )     -       (31 )     -       -       (31 )
Warrants issued
    -       -       146       -       -       146  
Balance at March 31, 2010
    185,420,859     $ 185     $ 116,682     $ (196 )   $ (87,731 )   $ 28,940  
                                                 
Inception (February 4, 2000) through March 31, 2011                                                
                                                 
Balance at February 4, 2000
    -     $ -     $ -     $ -     $ -     $ -  
Net loss
    -       -       -       -       (105,299 )     (105,299 )
Common shares issued
                                            -  
- Placements
    312,435,847       311       144,941       -       -       145,252  
- Acquisition
    1,600,000       2       3,598       -       -       3,600  
Shares issued to consulting firm
    231,259       -       297       -       -       297  
Nonvested shares issued
    4,672,259       6       2,736       (1,128 )     -       1,614  
Nonvested shares withheld for taxes
    (465,853 )     -       (231 )     -       -       (231 )
Stock options issued
    -       -       5,813       -       -       5,813  
Stock options exercised
    1,510,000       1       946       -       -       947  
Warrants issued
    -       -       804       -       -       804  
Warrants exercised
    7,925,556       8       8,185       -       -       8,193  
Warrants redeemed unexercised
    -       -       (2 )     -       -       (2 )
Stock issued for note conversion
    14,315,789       14       6,786       -       -       6,800  
Debt issued with beneficial conversion feature
    -       -       168       -       -       168  
Balance at March 31, 2011
    342,224,857     $ 342     $ 174,041     $ (1,128 )   $ (105,299 )   $ 67,956  
 
See the accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.


FAR EAST ENERGY CORPORATION
(A Development Stage Company)
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(In Thousands)
 (Unaudited)
 
   
Three Months Ended March 31,
   
February 4, 2000 (Inception) through
 
   
2011
   
2010
   
March 31, 2011
 
                   
Cash flows from operating activities:
                 
Net loss
  $ (4,919 )   $ (3,524 )   $ (105,299 )
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to cash used in operating activities:
                       
Depreciation and amortization
    41       45       912  
Amortization of deferred financing costs
    73       280       1,089  
Stock issued to pay expense
    -       -       297  
Share-based compensation
    237       229       7,426  
Changes in components of working capital and asset retirement and environmental obligations:
                       
Restricted cash
    -       218       -  
Accounts receivable
    (31 )     270       (56 )
Inventory
    (339 )     (21 )     (643 )
Prepaid expenses
    51       42       (253 )
Deposits
    (1 )     1       (102 )
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
    1,798       32       11,015  
Asset retirement and environmental obligations
    30       10       338  
Impairment expense
    -       -       3,778  
Loss (gain) on sale of assets
    -       -       (2 )
Other, net
    (20 )     (31 )     146  
Net cash used in operating activities
    (3,080 )     (2,449 )     (81,354 )
                         
Cash flows from investing activities:
                       
Additions to unproved oil and gas properties in China
    (7,273 )     (768 )     (46,789 )
Other oil and gas investment
    -       -       (1,278 )
Additions to other properties
    (237 )     (8 )     (1,678 )
Sale of oil and gas properties
    -       -       1,108  
Sales of other fixed assets
    -       -       2  
Net cash used in investing activities
    (7,510 )     (776 )     (48,635 )
                         
Cash flows from financing activities:
                       
Net proceeds from exchangeable note
    -       -       10,000  
Net proceeds from sale of common stock
    16,736       4,596       145,252  
Net proceeds from exercise of options
    -       -       947  
Net proceeds from exercise of warrants
    -       -       8,191  
Deferred financing costs
    -       -       (495 )
Net cash provided by financing activities
    16,736       4,596       163,895  
                         
Net increase (decrease)  in cash and cash equivalents
    6,146       1,371       33,906  
Cash and cash equivalents--beginning of period
    27,760       5,567       -  
Cash and cash equivalents--end of period
  $ 33,906     $ 6,938     $ 33,906  
                         
Supplemental cash flow information:
                       
Common stock issued to convert notes payable
  $ 6,800     $ -     $ 6,800  
 
See the accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 
FAR EAST ENERGY CORPORATION
(A Development Stage Company)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)

1.  Business, Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies

Business.  We were incorporated in the state of Nevada on February 4, 2000, and on January 10, 2002, we changed our name to Far East Energy Corporation. The terms "we," "us," "our," "FEEC" and "our company" refer to Far East Energy Corporation and its subsidiaries.  References to common stock refer to the common stock of FEEC.  References to FEEB refer to Far East Energy (Bermuda), Ltd., our principal operating subsidiary.  We are an independent energy company.  FEEC, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the acquisition, exploration and development of coalbed methane ("CBM") gas properties solely in the People's Republic of China ("PRC"). We are a development stage company, and our activities have been limited to organizational activities, including developing a strategic operating plan, capital funding, hiring personnel, entering into contracts acquiring rights to explore for, develop, produce and sell oil and gas or coalbed methane, and drilling, testing and completion of exploratory wells.  Gas sales commenced in the first quarter of 2011.

The information, as furnished herein, reflects all normal recurring adjustments that are, in the opinion of management, necessary for a fair statement of the financial position, results of operations and cash flows for the periods presented.

Basis of Presentation.  The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC").  Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in annual financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States ("U.S. GAAP") have been condensed or omitted pursuant to those rules and regulations.  The preparation of financial statements and related disclosures in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires the Company's management to make estimates, judgments and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes.  Management believes that the information and disclosures provided herein are adequate to present fairly the consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows of the Company. These consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010 ("2010 Annual Report").

Revenue Recognition.  We derive revenue primarily from the sale of produced natural gas. Revenues, net of royalties, are recognized when production is sold to a purchaser at a fixed or determinable price, when delivery has occurred and title has transferred, and if the collectability of the revenue is probable.  The amount of gas sold may differ from the amount to which the Company is entitled based on its working interest or net revenue interest in the properties. A ready market for natural gas allows us to sell our natural gas shortly after production at the pipeline receipt point at which time title and risk of loss transfers to the buyer. Revenue is recorded when title is transferred based on our deliveries and net revenue interests. Cash received relating to future revenues is deferred and recognized when all revenue recognition criteria are met.

Significant Customers All of the Company’s production is sold to one customer, Shanxi Province Guoxin Energy Development Group Limited ("SPG").  In the event that this significant customer ceases doing business with us, we believe that there are potential alternative customers with whom we could establish new relationships and that those relationships would result in the replacement of the lost customer.


Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization.  The Company’s sales of CBM gas began in the quarter ended March 31, 2011; the Company does not have sufficient production information by which reserves can be estimated.  Because of this, and because the costs associated with the Company’s oil  and gas properties relate to projects which have not yet identified proved reserves, the Company has not recorded depletion expense during the quarter ended March 31, 2011.

Convertible Debts and Warrants.  We applied Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") Topic 815, Derivatives and Hedging ("ASC 815"),  and FASB ASC Topic 470, Debt ("ASC 470"), in recording the Exchangeable Note and warrants issued to Dart Energy in conjunction with a transaction between the parties. Derivative financial instruments, as defined in ASC 815, consist of financial instruments or other contracts that contain a notional amount and one or more underlying amounts, require no initial net investment and permit net settlement. Derivative financial instruments may be free-standing or embedded in other financial instruments. Further, derivative financial instruments are initially, and subsequently, measured at fair value and recorded as liabilities or, in rare instances, assets.  Convertible debt, as defined in ASC 470, generally includes an interest rate which is lower than the issuer could establish for nonconvertible debt, an initial conversion price which is greater than the market value of the common stock at the time of issuance, and a conversion price which does not decrease except pursuant to anti-dilution provisions.  Also, under ASC 470, the portion of the proceeds from the issuance of the debt which is allocable to the warrant should be accounted for as additional paid-in capital.  The allocation should be based on the relative fair values of the two securities at time of issuance.  See Note 3 – "Transactions with Dart Energy" for additional information.

Recently Issued Accounting Standards and Developments.  There were no recent accounting pronouncements at March 31, 2011 that materially affected our company.

2.  Liquidity and Realization of Assets

Gas sales under the gas sales agreement with SPG commenced in the first quarter of 2011.   We have funded our exploration and development activities primarily through the sale and issuance of common stock. In September 2009, the Company filed with the SEC a shelf registration statement on Form S-3 for the offer and sale from time to time of up to $75 million of the Company's debt and equity securities.  On March 11, 2010, we completed a transaction for the sale of 11.7 million shares of our common stock and warrants to purchase up to 4.7 million shares of our common stock for total net proceeds of $4.6 million under our shelf registration statement.  On August 25, 2010, we completed the sale of approximately 105.5 million shares of common stock at a price of $0.33 per share for total net proceeds of $32.4 million in a registered direct public offering. On March 16, 2011, we completed a transaction for the sale of 34.9 million shares of our common stock at $0.5025 per share for net proceeds of $16.7 million under our shelf registration statement. The amount remaining available under the registration statement at May 3, 2011 was approximately $9.0 million.
 
On June 12, 2010, China United Coalbed Methane Corporation, Ltd. ("CUCBM") and SPG  executed a gas sales agreement (the "Gas Sales Agreement"), to which we are an express beneficiary, to sell CBM produced in the CBM field (the "Shouyang Field") governed by the Shouyang PSC. Pursuant to the Gas Sales Agreement, SPG is initially required to purchase up to 300,000 cubic meters (10,584,000 cubic feet) per day of CBM (the "Daily Volume Limit") produced at the Shouyang Field on a take-or-pay basis, with the purchase of any quantities above such amount to be negotiated pursuant to a separate agreement.  At the request of FEEB and CUCBM to provide competitive pricing options for offtake of CBM production in excess of the Daily Volume Limit with assured offtake capacity, the Gas Sales Agreement obligates SPG to commit to having demand capacity to accept at least 1 million cubic meters (approximately 35 million cubic feet) per day from the Shouyang Field by 2015 but does not obligate FEEB or CUCBM to sell gas in excess of the Daily Volume Limit. The term of the Gas Sales Agreement is 20 years. The in-field gathering system and compression equipment were connected to the pipeline in early January 2011.  After completion of that
 
 
process, low level gas flow commenced in January with initial testing of the gathering system in January.  Gas sales were interrupted while SPG completed testing and commissioning of equipment related to our first stage compressor sites as well as installation of gas sales meters.  That work was completed and formal gas flow and sales re-commenced in mid-March 2011.   Second stage compressor equipment is on site and available for use as needed when volumes increase.  The gross gas production for the first quarter 2011 was approximately 63 million cubic feet and sales volumes were 5.6 million cubic feet.  Gross production generally increased across the first quarter of 2011 and into the second quarter and to a high of 890 mcfpd on May 12, 2011. Current gas sales are ranging from 400 mcfpd to 685 mcfpd. We believe that rate will increase as gas from additional wells is sold through the gathering system.

Our current work programs would satisfy the minimum exploration expenditures for our Shouyang and Yunnan PSCs for 2011. With respect to the Qinnan PSC, we have halted activities on the Qinnan Block pending regulatory approval or denial.  Management may seek to secure capital by, first, obtaining debt or project financing or, if acceptable project or debt financing or refinancing is unavailable, by exploring potential strategic relationships or transactions involving one or more of our PSCs, such as a joint venture, farmout, merger, acquisition or sale of some or all of our assets, and by seeking to obtain approval from our Chinese partner company and the PRC’s Ministry of Commerce ("MOC") with respect to, and satisfying the other conditions under, the Farmout Agreement with Dart Energy, which would provide additional funding.  If none of these alternatives are available, management may seek to obtain equity related financing.  See Note 3 – "Transactions with Dart Energy" for additional information on our Farmout Agreement with Dart Energy.  However, there can be no assurance that we will be successful in capital acquisition or raising funds through debt, project financing, or entering into any strategic relationship or transaction or in satisfying the conditions under the Farmout Agreement with Dart Energy. In addition, the terms and conditions of any potential strategic relationship or transaction or of any project financing are uncertain, and we cannot predict the timing, structure or other terms and conditions or the consideration that may be paid with respect to any transaction or offering of securities and whether the consideration will meet or exceed our offering price.  Under certain circumstances, the structure of a strategic transaction may require the approval of the Chinese authorities, which could delay closing or make the consummation of a transaction more difficult.  There can be no assurance that the Chinese authorities will provide the approvals necessary for a transaction or transfer.  There can be no guarantee of future capital acquisition, fundraising or exploration success or that we will realize the value of our unevaluated exploratory well costs.  Based on our planned work programs, which include an accelerated pace of drilling in 2011, if we do not secure additional capital, whether from Dart Energy under the Farmout Agreement or through additional debt or project financing, or enter into an agreement with a strategic partner, we believe that the funds currently available to us should provide sufficient cash to fund our planned expenditures under the Shouyang PSC and other minimum operating costs until near the end of the fourth quarter of 2011.

The global financial crisis, despite having abated to a certain extent, has created liquidity problems for many companies and financial institutions and international capital markets have stagnated, especially in the United States and Europe.  A continuing downturn in these markets could impair our ability to obtain, or may increase our costs associated with obtaining, additional funds through financing or the sale of our securities.

There can be no guarantee of future capital acquisition, fundraising or exploration success or that we will realize the value of our unevaluated exploratory well costs. However, in addition to revenue generated, management believes that we will continue to be successful in securing any funds necessary to continue as a going concern.


As of March 31, 2011, we had unevaluated exploratory well costs totaling $53.9 million, of which $35.1 million have been capitalized for a period greater than one year.  Such costs, which relate to the Shouyang Block in Shanxi Province, were initially capitalized under successful efforts accounting, pending a determination of whether sufficient quantities of economically recoverable proved reserves are found.  We make periodic assessments of whether these costs qualify for continuing capitalization, based on whether we are making sufficient progress in assessing the reserves and determining the economic and operating viability of the project, as more fully discussed in Note 4.

In addition to these periodic assessments, we also assess whether we have a reasonable expectation of recovering these costs through future net cash flows from the project, if we are successful in implementing an overall development program upon completion of a pilot project.  During the first quarter of 2008, we received a report of an independent engineering firm, which was commissioned to study the various technical aspects of the current pilot project  in the initial 1H Pilot Area in the Shouyang Block.  The study indicated that significant gas content is present in the initial 1H Pilot Area and that the coal in the area has relatively high permeability, based on production data available from the first seven wells (three horizontal and four vertical) drilled in the pilot area.  The report also indicated that we have made progress in lowering the wellbore pressure in the initial 1H Pilot Area to a level which appeared to be the critical desorption pressure necessary for CBM gas production.  In November 2010 we received an original gas in place report from an oil and gas consulting firm, and in April 2011 we received a contingent resources report from the same firm. Although there are uncertainties associated with our exploration and dewatering efforts, we believe the results of these studies, when taken together with management’s analysis and recent well results, provide the Company with a reasonable basis for its expectations as to the long-term viability of this project, and support the continued capitalization of our unevaluated capitalized exploratory well costs in the project while we are continuing to evaluate the field.

Subsequent to the drilling of the seven wells included in the 2008 report, we have drilled an additional 3 horizontal, 14 vertical, 22 deviated, and 13 pilot development test wells as of March 31, 2011 in the northern portion of the Shouyang Block. Additionally, we began drilling 1 vertical well, 1 deviated well and 5 pilot development test wells, which were not yet completed as of March 31, 2011.  The unevaluated exploratory well costs at March 31, 2011 consisted of exploratory drilling and related costs for 46 wells in the initial 1H Pilot Area and 13 pilot development test wells.  We also plan to drill additional wells in the near future to further explore and assess the potential of the property.  Although we believe the results of our exploration activities in Shanxi and Yunnan Provinces to date have been favorable and believe that we have established the commercial viability of the initial 1H Pilot Area in the Shouyang Block, we will need to complete more wells to confirm commercial viability in the remaining acreage in these provinces. In the event we are not successful, we may be required to write off some or all of these unevaluated exploratory well costs.  We are in the process of obtaining Chinese reserve certification to support the submission of the overall development plan ("ODP") which will be filed as soon as possible.

3.  Transactions with Dart Energy
 
On March 13, 2009, we entered into a series of transactions related to our Qinnan Block with Dart Energy, formerly known as Arrow Energy International Pte Ltd.  In connection with these transactions, one of our wholly owned subsidiaries, FEEB, and Dart Energy entered into a Farmout Agreement (the "Farmout Agreement") under which, subject to certain conditions, FEEB would assign to Dart Energy 75.25% of its rights in the Qinnan PSC in Shanxi Province (the "Assignment"). The Farmout Agreement conditions the Assignment on, among other things, the receipt of required approvals from the government of the PRC.  Since December 19, 2009, each of the Company and Dart Energy has had the right to terminate the Farmout Agreement at any time, though neither party has elected to exercise that right.

 
If the conditions to the Farmout Agreement are satisfied prior to the termination of the agreement, Dart Energy would make an initial payment of approximately $8 million to us, and, subject to certain other conditions, would fund all exploration costs associated with the Qinnan PSC, up to a maximum of $30 million. In addition, after satisfaction of the conditions to the Farmout Agreement, if we obtain Chinese governmental approval of an overall development program for the Qinnan area, Dart Energy would pay FEEB an additional $8 million in cash as a bonus.  In conjunction with entering into the Farmout Agreement, on March 13, 2009, (i) FEEB issued the Exchangeable Note, $10 million principal amount, to Dart Energy for $10 million in cash; (ii) we issued a warrant to Dart Energy for 7,420,000 shares of our common stock, at an exercise price of $1.00 per share ("Warrant"), which expired in December 2009; and (iii) we entered into a registration rights agreement.
 
Of the $10 million in cash received from Dart Energy for the Exchangeable Note, $2 million was to be set aside to be used exclusively to satisfy FEEB's existing exploration and development commitments in connection with the Qinnan PSC.  This restricted portion of the proceeds was recorded as restricted cash on the consolidated balance sheet. During the period from the date we entered into the transactions with Dart Energy to the year ended December 31, 2010, the restricted cash of $2 million has been fully utilized for exploration expenditures related to the Qinnan PSC.
 
The Exchangeable Note has an initial principal amount of $10 million and bears interest at a rate of 8% per annum, which began to accrue on October 16, 2009 and matured on March 13, 2011("Maturity Date").  Dart Energy has the right at any time to exchange the Exchangeable Note in whole or in part for shares of the Company’s common stock at an exchange rate of 21,052.63 shares per $10,000, or $0.475 per share (the "Exchange Rate"), of principal and interest.  Moreover, upon satisfaction of the conditions set forth in the Farmout Agreement, the note would automatically be exchanged for shares of our common stock at the same exchange rate.  As of March 31, 2011, Dart Energy has exercised its right to exchange a total of $6.8 million in principal amount under the $10.0 million Exchangeable Note for 14,315,789 shares of Common Stock in the aggregate through the following series of transactions:
 
Date Shares Issued
 
Principal Amount
Exchanged
   
Shares of Common
Stock Issued
 
             
February 1, 2011
  $ 4,000,000       8,421,053  
February 24, 2011
    2,800,000       5,894,736  
    $ 6,800,000       14,315,789  
 
As of March 31, 2011, the remaining principal balance was $3,200,000, and the outstanding unpaid interest amount was $1,106,667.  Dart Energy has informed the Company that it has sold all of the acquired shares through block trades with institutional investors.
 
Prior to the Maturity Date, the parties agreed to extend the remaining balance of the exchangeable note of $3.2 million plus approximately $1.1 million in accrued interest to a new maturity date of September 15, 2011.  Interest will continue to accrue on the remaining principal balance at the original 8% annual rate.
 
The Exchangeable Note contains certain restrictive covenants applicable to the Company and FEEB, including, among others, restrictions on the incurrence of indebtedness that ranks senior to or pari passu with the Exchangeable Note and restrictions on FEEB's ability to sell all of its rights under the Shouyang PSC.  The Company has guaranteed FEEB's payment obligations under the Exchangeable Note.

 
For additional information on the transactions with Dart Energy, see Item 1 – "Business" of our 2010 Annual Report.
 
We applied ASC 815 and ASC 470 in the recording of the transaction with Dart Energy.  According to ASC 815, the Exchangeable Note and the Warrant were afforded the exemption from derivative accounting treatment as they were not derivative instruments because (i) their conversion features were indexed to the Company's stock, and (ii) the Warrant is and, in the case of the Exchangeable Note, the conversion feature on its own would be classified in stockholders’ equity in the balance sheet.  Pursuant to ASC 470, no portion of the proceeds from the issuance of the Exchangeable Note should be accounted for as attributable to the conversion feature due to the inseparability of the debt and the conversion option.  Also, under ASC 470, the portion of the proceeds from the issuance of the Exchangeable Note which is allocable to the Warrant should be accounted for as paid-in capital.  The allocation should be based on the relative fair values of the two securities at time of issuance.  We determined the fair value of the Warrant using a combination of the Black-Scholes-Merton valuation technique and a Monte Carlo simulation.  
 
The significant assumptions used in the valuation were as follows:
 
   
Black-Scholes
   
Monte Carlo
 
   
-Merton
   
Simulation
 
Volatility
    124.60 %     110.16 %
Risk free interest rate
    0.67 %     0.83 %
Expected dividend yield
    -       -  
Expected term
 
0.99 year
   
1.51 years
 
 
Based on the combination of the Black-Scholes-Merton valuation technique and the Monte Carlo simulation, the Warrant was valued at $624,612 at time of issuance.   The amount was recorded as a discount to the Exchangeable Note in the liabilities section and as additional paid-in capital in the Stockholders’ Equity section of the Consolidated Balance Sheets.  The debt discount is accreted as interest expense periodically over the term of the Exchangeable Note.  Accretion expense for the three-month periods ended March 31, 2011 and 2010 was $42,172 and $46,042, respectively.
 
The Company incurred approximately $0.5 million in direct costs in connection with entering into the transactions with Dart Energy.  These direct costs were allocated between the Exchangeable Note and the Warrant in proportion to their respective fair values at time of issuance.  The costs related to the Warrant were recorded as an offset to the value of the Warrant in paid-in capital.  The costs related to the Exchangeable Note were capitalized as deferred financing costs and amortized based on the effective interest method over the term of the Exchangeable Note.  The objective of that method is to arrive at a periodic interest cost which represents a level effective rate over the term of the Exchangeable Note on its face amount reduced by the unamortized discount and expense at the beginning of the period.  The effective interest rate for the Exchangeable Note as calculated is 11.64% per annum.  Amortization expense for the three-month periods ended March 31, 2011 and 2010 was $31,335 and $34,211, respectively.


4.  Unevaluated Oil and Gas Properties

Unevaluated oil and gas properties include the following (in thousands):
 
   
At March 31,
   
At December 31,
 
   
2011
   
2010
 
Unproved leasehold costs
  $ 275     $ 275  
Unevaluated exploratory well costs
    53,947       49,819  
    $ 54,222     $ 50,094  
 
Unproved Property Costs. Unproved leasehold costs are composed of amounts we paid to the MOC and the China United Coalbed Methane Corporation ("CUCBM") pursuant to a PSC we entered into in 2002 with CUCBM to acquire the mineral rights in the Enhong and Laochang areas in Yunnan Province.

Unevaluated Well Costs.  Unevaluated well costs include only suspended well costs which are direct exploratory well costs pending determination of whether proved reserves have been discovered. Accounting guidance regarding capitalization of suspended well costs is provided by FASB ASC Topic 932, Extractive Activities – Oil & Gas ("ASC 932").  FASB ASC 932 addresses whether there are circumstances under the successful efforts method of accounting for oil and gas producing activities that would permit the continued capitalization of exploratory well costs beyond one year, other than when additional exploration wells are necessary to justify major capital expenditures and those wells are under way or firmly planned for the near future.  Capitalization of costs should be continued beyond one year in cases where reserves for the project are not yet proven, but the Company demonstrates sufficient continuing progress toward assessing those reserves.  For the capitalized costs at March 31, 2011, our assessment indicated that our current work programs demonstrated our efforts in making sufficient continuing progress toward assessing the reserves in the areas for which the costs were incurred. Therefore, we have continued to capitalize these costs.

The following table provides an aging of capitalized exploratory well costs based on the date the costs were incurred and the number of related wells for which these exploratory well costs have been capitalized for a period greater than one year (in thousands, except number of projects):

   
At March 31,
 
   
2011
 
       
Unevaluated exploratory well costs that have been capitalized for a period of one year or less
  $ 18,819  
Unevaluated exploratory well costs that have been capitalized for a period greater than one year (1)
    35,128  
Total unevaluated exploratory well costs
  $ 53,947  
Number of projects that have exploratory well costs that have been capitalized for a period greater than one year
    1  
 
(1)
Costs related to our exploratory project in the Shouyang Block in the Shanxi Province.
 
Our net changes in unevaluated exploratory well costs in the Shouyang Block for the three months ended March 31, 2011 are presented below (in thousands):
 
   
At March 31,
 
   
2011
 
       
Beginning balance at January 1
  $ 49,819  
Additions to unevaluated exploratory well costs pending the determination of proved reserves
    4,128  
Reclassifications of wells, facilities, and equipment based on the determination of proved reserves
    -  
Unevaluated exploratory well costs charged to expense      -  
Ending balance at March 31
  $ 53,947  
 
5.  Asset Retirement and Environmental Obligations
 
Estimates of future dismantlement, restoration, and abandonment costs. The accounting for future development and abandonment costs is determined by FASB ASC Topic 410, Asset Retirement and Environmental Obligations, which requires the fair value of a liability for an asset retirement obligation to be recognized in the period in which it is incurred if a reasonable estimate of fair value can be made. The associated asset retirement costs are capitalized as part of the carrying amount of the long-lived asset. The accrual is based on estimates of these costs for each of our properties based upon the type of production structure, reservoir characteristics, depth of the reservoir, market demand for equipment, currently available procedures and consultations with construction and engineering consultants. Because these costs typically extend many years into the future, estimating these future costs is difficult and requires management to make estimates and judgments that are subject to future revisions based on numerous factors, including changing technology, the political and regulatory environment, estimates as to the proper discount rate to use and timing of abandonment.
 
The following table presents the reconciliation of the beginning and ending aggregate carrying amounts of short-term and long-term legal obligations associated with the retirement of property, plant and equipment at March 31, 2011 (in thousands):
 
   
At March 31,
 
   
2011
 
Carrying amount at beginning of period
  $ 491  
Liabilities incurred
    15  
Liabilities settled
    -  
Accretion
    15  
Revisions
    -  
Foreign currency translations
    -  
Carrying amount at end of period
  $ 521  
Current portion
  $ -  
Noncurrent portion
  $ 521  
 

6.  Other Fixed Assets

Other fixed assets, net include the following (in thousands):

   
At March 31,
   
At December 31,
 
   
2011
   
2010
 
Other fixed assets
  $ 1,511     $ 1,314  
Accumulated depreciation
    (678 )     (677 )
Other fixed assets, net
  $ 833     $ 637  
 
Other fixed assets include leasehold improvements, equipment and furniture.  Depreciation expense for the three-month periods ended March 31, 2011 and 2010 were approximately $41,000 and $45,000, respectively.

7.  Commitments and Contingencies

Legal Proceedings.  We are periodically named in legal actions arising from normal business activities. We evaluate the merits of these actions and, if we determine that an unfavorable outcome is probable and can be estimated, we will establish the necessary accruals. We do not anticipate any material losses as a result of commitments and contingent liabilities. We are involved in no material legal proceedings.

Shouyang Production Sharing Contract.  We are the operator under a PSC entered into with CUCBM to develop the Shouyang Block in the Shanxi Province.  The term of the Shouyang PSC consists of an exploration period, a development period and a production period. During the exploration period, we hold a 100% participating interest in the properties, and we must bear all exploration costs for discovering and evaluating CBM-bearing areas. If any CBM field is discovered, the development costs for that CBM field will be borne by us and CUCBM in proportion to the respective participating interests. At that time, we will recover that share of the up-front exploration costs allocable to our Chinese partner through a gradual cost recovery mechanism.  The exploration period is divided into three phases called Phase I, Phase II and Phase III.  We have completed our Phase I,  Phase II and Phase III work program obligations under the PSC, and intend to continue pilot development and exploration activities in Phase III until we transfer into the development period.  During the third quarter of 2009, the MOC approved a modification agreement to extend Phase III of the exploration period for the Shouyang PSC to June 30, 2011 from June 30, 2009.

Under the Shouyang PSC, we have committed to satisfy certain annual minimum exploration expenditure requirements.  Our minimum exploration expenditure requirement is based on the minimum exploration expenditure requirements of CUCBM established by the Ministry of Land and Resources ("MLR").  The MLR sets its requirements by applying a minimum expenditure per square kilometer to the total acreage encompassed by each PSC.  The annual minimum exploration expenditure requirement is approximately $3.0 million in the aggregate for the Shouyang PSC based on the currency exchange rate between the U.S. Dollar and the Chinese RMB as of March 31, 2011.  These expenditure requirements are denominated in the RMB and, therefore, are subject to fluctuations in the currency exchange rate between the U.S. Dollar and the Chinese RMB.  The MLR minimum expenditure requirements are a significant factor that influences the Company's exploration work program. Under the Shouyang PSC, we are required to pay certain fees totaling $0.5 million in 2011, which count toward the satisfaction of the 2011 minimum exploration expenditure requirements.  These fees include assistance fees, training fees, fees for CBM exploration rights and salaries and benefits.


Qinnan Production Sharing Contract.  We are the operator under a PSC with China National Petroleum Company ("CNPC"), the successor to CUCBM, to develop the Qinnan Block in the Shanxi Province.  The term of the Qinnan PSC consists of an exploration period, a development period and a production period. During the exploration period, we hold a 100% participating interest in the properties, and we must bear all exploration costs for discovering and evaluating CBM-bearing areas. If any CBM field is discovered, the development costs for that CBM field will be borne by us and CUCBM in proportion to the respective participating interests. At that time, we will recover that share of the up-front exploration costs allocable to our Chinese partner through a gradual cost recovery mechanism.  The exploration period is divided into three phases called Phase I, Phase II and Phase III.  We have completed our Phase I, Phase II and Phase III work program obligations under the PSC, and intend to continue pilot development and exploration activities in Phase III until we transfer into the development period.

Although the Qinnan PSC does not expire until July 31, 2032, the stated date for expiration of the exploration period for the Qinnan PSC occurred on June 30, 2009. We are continuing to pursue an extension of the exploration period of the Qinnan PSC, but we cannot be optimistic at this time. The Company believes the underlying exploration period should be extended due to events beyond its reasonable control, namely the lengthy transfer of rights taking place from CUCBM to CNPC.  At CNPC’s request, we have provided certain operational and financial information about our Company to assist them in the decision making process for recognizing an extension of the exploration period in Qinnan.  CNPC has completed an accounting audit pursuant to the Qinnan PSC of our expenditures for 2007 and 2008.  We have also provided to CNPC at their request our work plan for 2010 for Qinnan.  In January 2011, we received a formal notice from CNPC that it has purportedly received all Chinese approvals with respect to the transfer and has requested we execute a modification agreement to confirm CNPC as our Chinese partner company for the Qinnan PSC.  Currently, the modification agreement is under review and discussion.  There can be no assurance that we will be successful in extending the exploration period of the Qinnan PSC or that a new PSC will be granted. Additionally, in connection with obtaining this extension or a new PSC, we may be required to commit to certain expenditures or to modify the terms or respective ownership interests and/or acreage in the applicable PSC. However, if we are unable to secure sufficient funds to commit to these expenditures, it may adversely affect our ability to extend the Qinnan PSC.
 
Under the Qinnan PSC, we have committed to satisfy certain annual minimum exploration expenditure requirements.  As with the Shouyang PSC, our minimum exploration expenditure requirement is based on the minimum exploration expenditure requirements of CNPC established by the MLR.  The MLR sets its requirements by applying a minimum expenditure per square kilometer to the total acreage encompassed by each PSC.  The annual minimum exploration expenditure requirement under the Qinnan PSC is approximately $3.5 million in the aggregate based on the currency exchange rate between the U.S. Dollar and the Chinese RMB as of March 31, 2011.  These expenditure requirements are denominated in the RMB and, therefore, are subject to fluctuations in the currency exchange rate between the U.S. Dollar and the Chinese RMB.  Because the stated expiration date for the exploration period for the Qinnan PSC occurred on June 30, 2009, and we have not yet received an extension, we have halted activities associated with the Qinnan Block pending receipt of an extension, should one ultimately be granted.

Yunnan Production Sharing Contract. We are the operator under one PSC with CUCBM to develop two areas in the Yunnan Province: Enhong and Laochang. The term of the PSC consists of an exploration period, a development period and a production period. The exploration period is divided into two phases, Phase I and Phase II.  We have completed Phase I and are operating in Phase II.  During the third quarter of 2009, the MOC approved a modification agreement to extend Phase II of the exploration period for the Yunnan PSC to June 30, 2011 from June 30, 2009.


During the exploration period, we must bear all exploration costs for discovering and evaluating CBM-bearing areas.  Our work commitment to complete Phase II consists of drilling 7 exploratory wells and fracturing and test producing a 5-well pilot in the Laochang sub-block (including one vertical well and four deviated wells).    In December 2010 we mobilized a drilling company to fracture stimulate 5 wells that we had drilled to test the number 7+8 and number 19 coal seams in Laochang area.  These two seams have good gas content based on lab analysis and significant thickness to merit testing for commercial production.  Stimulation operations were completed on January 19, 2011 and the frac company demobilized from the field.  However, bad weather prevented the equipment from reaching the field in time to put the wells on production before the Chinese New Year holiday.  Therefore, the planned operations were suspended until February 15, 2011 to allow for the roads to improve and the crews to return from the holiday.  The dewatering operation started on March 18, 2011 in all five wells of the clustered pilot. With casing pressure of 0.41 Mpa and fluid level several hundred meters above the top of the targeted coal seams, a small amount of gas began to be produced and flared.  More gas is anticipated to come with dewatering process going forward.

Under the Yunnan PSC, we have committed to satisfy certain annual minimum exploration expenditure requirements.  Our minimum exploration expenditure requirements for the blocks subject to the PSC are based on the minimum exploration expenditure requirements of CUCBM established by the MLR.  The MLR sets its requirements by applying a minimum expenditure per square kilometer to the total acreage encompassed by the PSC.  The annual minimum exploration expenditure requirement is approximately $1.6 million in the aggregate, based on the currency exchange rate between the U.S. Dollar and the Chinese RMB as of March 31, 2011.  These requirements are denominated in the RMB, and, therefore, are subject to fluctuations in the currency exchange rate between the U.S. Dollar and the Chinese RMB.  The MLR minimum expenditure requirements are a significant factor that influences the Company's exploration work program.  Under the Yunnan PSC, we are required to pay certain fees totaling $0.4 million in 2011, which are counted toward the satisfaction of the 2011 minimum exploration expenditure requirements. These fees include assistance fees, training fees, fees for CBM exploration rights and salaries and benefits.  Based on the modification agreement, the unfulfilled exploration work commitment will be added to the minimum exploration work commitment for the following year.  If the Company terminates the Yunnan PSC and there exists an unfulfilled balance on the minimum exploration work commitment, the Company will be required to pay the balance to CUCBM.
 
8.  Common Stock

Issuance of Shares.  On March 16, 2011, we completed a transaction for the sale of 34.9 million shares of our common stock at $0.5025 per share for net proceeds of $16.7 million under our shelf registration statement.

Conversion of Exchangeable Note.  During the first quarter of 2011, Dart Energy exercised its right to exchange a total of $6.8 million in principal amount under the $10.0 million Exchangeable Note for 14,315,789 shares of Common Stock in the aggregate through the series of transactions.  See Note 3 – "Transactions with Dart Energy" for additional information.

Shares Withheld for Taxes.  During the first quarter of 2011, we withheld 34,259 shares of our common stock from the vesting of nonvested shares (also commonly referred to as "restricted stock") granted to employees to satisfy tax withholding obligations of $20,372.  Once withheld, the shares were canceled and removed from the number of outstanding shares.  Accordingly, we reduced our common stock and our additional paid in capital on our consolidated balance sheet by an amount which equaled the fair market value of the withheld shares on the date of withholding and cancellation.  We subsequently remitted the amount withheld to the tax authority.


Outstanding Warrants.  A summary of warrants outstanding as of March 31, 2010 is as follows (in thousands, except exercise price):

     
Warrants
   
Expiration Date In
 
Exercise Price
   
Outstanding
   
2012
   
2013
   
2014
   
2015
 
$ 0.54       290       -       -       290  (1)     -  
$ 0.80       4,662       -       -       -       4662  (1)
$ 1.00       8,400       -       8,400       -       -  
$ 1.25       4,623       -       -       4,623       -  
$ 2.61       4,020       4,020       -       -       -  
Total
      21,995       4,020       8,400       4,913       4,662  
 
(1)
During the first quarter of 2010 granted to investors and placement agent in conjunction with the investors’ purchase of our common stock.

9.  Share-Based Compensation

We grant nonvested shares of common stock and options to purchase common stock to employees, members of the board of directors and consultants under our shareholder-approved 2005 Stock Incentive Plan (the "2005 Plan").  Grants prior to the adoption of the 2005 Plan and inducement grants associated with hiring of new employees and appointment of new directors are generally issued outside of the 2005 Plan.  At the annual general meeting of stockholders of the Company held on July 15, 2009, the Company's stockholders approved an amendment to the 2005 Plan which increased the number of shares of common stock issuable from 7,500,000 shares to 12,500,000 shares and increased the number of shares of common stock that may be granted as restricted stock (nonvested shares), restricted stock units or any other stock-based awards from 2,400,000 to 3,900,000 shares.  During 2010, the Company awarded 315,000 nonvested shares under the 2005 Plan to employees as retention bonuses.  During the first quarter of 2011, we awarded options to purchase up to 1,785,000 shares of our common stock and 1,669,800 nonvested shares under the 2005 Plan to employees and members of the board of directors; and options to purchase up to 250,000 shares of our common stock and 190,000 nonvested shares outside the 2005 Plan to a new employee and a consultant.  As of March 31, 2011, we had 2,619,199 shares available for awards under the 2005 Plan, of which 33 shares could be issued as nonvested shares or other full-valued stock-based awards.

We account for share-based compensation expense under FASB ASC Topic 718, Compensation – Stock Compensation ("ASC 718"). We measure the cost of employee and non-employee services received in exchange for stock options and other equity awards based on the grant date fair value of those awards.  We use the Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model to determine the grant date fair value of options and the closing share price on date of grant to determine the grant date fair value of nonvested shares.  We recognize the compensation expense over the period during which the grantee is required to provide service in exchange for the award.


The compensation expense is included in the Consolidated Statements of Operations as follows (in thousands):

   
Three Months Ended
 
   
March 31,
 
   
2011
   
2010
 
Exploration Costs
  $ 46     $ 35  
General and Administrative
    191       194  
    $ 237     $ 229  
 
The following table summarizes stock option transactions during the three months ended March 31, 2011 (in thousands, except grant price):
 
   
Options
   
Weighted Average Grant Price
 
Outstanding at January 1, 2011
    9,075     $ 1.18  
Granted
    2,035       0.58  
Forfeited
    (3 )     0.28  
Cancelled
    -       -  
Expired
    -       -  
Outstanding at March 31, 2011
    11,107     $ 1.07  
                 
Exercisable at March 31, 2011
    7,939     $ 1.29  
 
At March 31, 2011, the weighted average remaining contractual life for the stock options outstanding and exercisable was 5.85 years and 4.59 years, respectively.

The following table summarizes shares of nonvested stock transactions during the three months ended March 31, 2011 (in thousands, except per share data):
 
   
Nonvested Shares
   
Weighted
 Average
Fair Value
Per Share
   
Vest Date
Fair Value
 
Outstanding at January 1, 2011
    779     $ 0.37        
Granted
    1,860       0.58        
Vested
    (84 )     0.68     $ 70  
Withheld for Taxes
    (34 )     0.68          
Outstanding at March 31, 2011
    2,521     $ 0.52          
 
As of March 31, 2011, we had approximately $2.0 million in total unrecognized compensation cost related to share-based compensation, of which $1.1 million was related to shares of nonvested stock grants and was recorded in unearned compensation on our consolidated balance sheets.  This cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 2.7 years at March 31, 2011.  This expected cost does not include the impact of any future share-based compensation awards.


10.  Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Information

Cash paid for interest expense and income taxes for the three month period of 2011 and 2010 was zero.

11. Subsequent Events

Subsequent events have been evaluated through May 16, 2011, the date the consolidated financial statements were issued. There were no items that would have a material impact to the consolidated financial statements presented in this Form 10-Q.


PART 1.  FINANCIAL INFORMATION

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

The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and related notes included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December, 31, 2010 ("2010 Annual Report"), the financial statements and related notes in this Quarterly Report, the risk factors contained herein and in our 2010 Annual Report, and all of the other information contained elsewhere in this report.  The terms "we," "us," "our," “the Company”  and "our company" refer to Far East Energy Corporation and its subsidiaries, unless the context suggests otherwise. The term "FEEB" refers to Far East Energy (Bermuda), Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary, which conducts substantially all of our operations in China.

Overview.  We are a development stage company, and our activities have been principally limited to the drilling, testing, and completion of exploratory and pilot development CBM wells and organizational activities. We believe that good environmental, social, health and safety performance is an integral part of our business success. We conduct our business with respect and care for our employees, contractors, communities, and the environments in which we operate.  Our vision is zero harm to people and the environment while creating value for our shareholders as well as for China, including the regions and communities within which we operate.  Our commitment to these principles is demonstrated by the fact that we have had no lost-time accidents in over five years and no major environmental incidents.  We have a commitment to being good corporate citizens of China, striving to emphasize and utilize very high levels of Chinese content in personnel, services, and equipment; and we have achieved very high percentages of Chinese content in each category.

During the first quarter 2011, we continued our efforts to explore and develop CBM in Shanxi Province in northern People's Republic of China ("PRC" or "China") and in Yunnan Province in southern PRC.  We continued to employ numerous safety precautions to ensure the safety of our employees and independent contractors.  We also conducted our operations in accordance with various laws and regulations concerning the environment, occupational safety and health.

In early January 2011, the in-field gathering system and compression equipment were connected to the pipeline.  After completion of that process, low level gas flow commenced  in January with initial testing of the gathering system in January.  Gas sales were interrupted while Shanxi Province Guoxin Energy Development Group Limited ("SPG") completed testing and commissioning of certain equipment related to our first stage compressor sites as well as installation of gas sales meters.  That work was completed and formal gas flow and sales re-commenced in mid-March 2011.  Second stage compressor equipment is on site and available for use as needed when volumes increase.  The gross gas production for the first quarter 2011 was approximately 63 million cubic feet and sales volumes were 5.6 million cubic feet.  Gross production generally increased across the first quarter of 2011 and into the second quarter and to a high of 890 mcfpd on May 12, 2011. Current gas sales are ranging from 400 mcfpd to 685 mcfpd. We believe that rate will increase as gas from additional wells is sold through the gathering system. See "Shouyang PSC" below.

In February 2011, Dart Energy (CBM) International Pte Ltd (formerly Arrow Energy International Pte Ltd) ("Dart Energy") exercised its right to exchange a total of $6.8 million in principal amount under the Exchangeable Note for 14,315,789 shares of Common Stock in the aggregate through the series of transactions.


On March 16, 2011, we completed a transaction for the sale of 34.9 million shares of our common stock at $0.5025 per share for net proceeds of $16.7 million under our shelf registration statement.  The amount remaining available under the registration statement at May 3, 2011 was approximately $9.0 million.

Management may seek to secure capital by, first, obtaining debt or project financing or, if acceptable project or debt financing or refinancing is unavailable, by exploring potential strategic relationships or transactions involving one or more of our PSCs, such as a joint venture, farmout, merger, acquisition or sale of some or all of our assets, and by seeking to obtain approval from our Chinese partner company and the PRC’s Ministry of Commerce ("MOC") with respect to, and satisfying the other conditions under, the Farmout Agreement with Dart Energy, which would provide additional funding.  If none of these alternatives are available, the management may seek to obtain equity related financing.  See Note 3 – "Transactions with Dart Energy" for additional information on our Farmout Agreement with Dart Energy.  However, there can be no assurance that we will be successful in capital acquisition or raising funds through debt, project financing, or entering into any strategic relationship or transaction or in satisfying the conditions under the Farmout Agreement with Dart Energy. In addition, the terms and conditions of any potential strategic relationship or transaction or of any project or debt financing are uncertain, and we cannot predict the timing, structure or other terms and conditions or the consideration that may be paid with respect to any transaction or offering of securities and whether the consideration will meet or exceed our offering price.  Under certain circumstances, the structure of a strategic transaction may require the approval of the Chinese authorities, which could delay closing or make the consummation of a transaction more difficult.  In particular, any transfer of our rights under the PSCs will require the approval of our Chinese partner company and the MOC. There can be no assurance that the Chinese authorities will provide the approvals necessary for a transaction or transfer.  There can be no guarantee of future capital acquisition, fundraising or exploration success or that we will realize the value of our unevaluated exploratory well costs.  Based on our planned work programs, which include an accelerated pace of drilling in 2011, if we do not secure additional capital, whether from Dart Energy under the Farmout Agreement or through additional debt, project financing, or enter into an agreement with a strategic partner, we believe that the funds currently available to us should provide sufficient cash to fund our planned expenditures under the Shouyang PSC and other minimum operating costs until near the end of the fourth quarter of 2011.

The global financial crisis, despite having abated to a certain extent, has created liquidity problems for many companies and financial institutions and international capital markets have stagnated, especially in the United States and Europe.  A continuing downturn in these markets could impair our ability to obtain, or may increase our costs associated with obtaining, additional funds through financing or the sale of our securities. The ongoing crisis has created a difficult environment in which to negotiate and consummate a transaction or otherwise.  While we will continue to seek to secure capital, there can be no assurance that we will be able to enter any strategic relationship or transaction or that we will be successful in raising funds through debt, project, or equity related financing.

There can be no guarantee of future capital acquisition, fundraising or exploration success or that we will realize the value of our unevaluated exploratory well costs. However, in addition to revenue generated, management believes that we will continue to be successful in securing any funds necessary to continue as a going concern.

Although we believe the results of our exploration activities in Shanxi and Yunnan Provinces to date have been favorable, we will need to complete more wells to achieve commercial viability in these provinces, which will require additional capital expenditures.  Our current and future work programs for our PSCs will depend on our ability to raise additional capital to fund our exploration activities.  Our current work program is described below.


Shouyang Block, Shanxi Province.  During the third quarter of 2009, the MOC approved a modification agreement (the "2009 Shouyang PSC Modification Agreement"), which among other provisions, extended Phase III of the exploration period to June 30, 2011 from June 30, 2009.  We have begun the extension application process for the Shouyang PSC.

On June 12, 2010, China United Coalbed Methane Corporation, Ltd. ("CUCBM") and SPG executed the Shouyang Project Coalbed Methane Purchase and Sales Contract (the "Gas Sales Agreement") through which CBM produced at the CBM field (the "Shouyang Field") is sold.  Pursuant to the Gas Sales Agreement, SPG is initially required to purchase up to 300,000 cubic meters (10,584,000 cubic feet) per day of CBM (the "Daily Volume Limit") produced at the Shouyang Field on a take-or-pay basis, with the purchase of any quantities above such amount to be negotiated pursuant to a separate agreement.  At the request of FEEB and CUCBM to provide competitive pricing options for offtake of CBM production in excess of the Daily Volume Limit with assured offtake capacity, the Gas Sales Agreement obligates SPG to commit to having demand capacity to accept at least 1 million cubic meters (approximately 35 million cubic feet) per day from the Shouyang Field by 2015 but does not obligate FEEB or CUCBM to sell gas in excess of the Daily Volume Limit. The term of the Gas Sales Agreement is 20 years.   FEEB and CUCBM sought to have the 300,000 cubic meter (10,584,000 cubic feet) per day Daily Volume Limit included in the Gas Sales Agreement, rather than committing to supply up to the entire capacity of the pipeline (approximately 40 million cubic feet per day), because they desired to preserve the opportunity to negotiate a new contract for gas volumes above 10,584,000 cubic feet in the belief that a competing pipeline company, Shanxi International Energy Company ("Shanxi International"), was considering building to the initial 1H Pilot Area.  A second pipeline would potentially provide an additional 50 million cubic feet per day of offtake infrastructure as well as provide price competition.  On June 22, 2010, it was announced that Shanxi International had held its commencement ceremony for a pipeline that would run through Shouyang, and purportedly has a capacity of 50 million cubic feet per day.

In early January 2011, the in-field gathering system and compression equipment in our initial 1H Pilot Area were connected to SPG's gas pipeline.  After completion of that process, low level gas flow commenced  in January with initial testing of the gathering system in January.  Gas sales were interrupted while SPG completed testing and commissioning of equipment related to our first stage compressor sites as well as installation of gas sales meters.  That work was completed and formal gas flow and sales re-commenced in mid-March 2011.  Second stage compressor equipment is on site and available for use as needed when volumes increase.  The gross gas production for the first quarter 2011 was approximately 63 million cubic feet and sales volumes were 5.6 million cubic feet.  Gross production generally increased across the first quarter of 2011 and into the second quarter and to a high of 890 mcfpd on May 12, 2011. Current gas sales are ranging from 400 mcfpd to 685 mcfpd. We believe that rate will increase as gas from additional wells is sold through the gathering system.
 
Under Chinese law and practice, foreign-owned and controlled entities can only sell gas through a licensed, local entity, such as CUCBM.  Therefore, concurrently with the execution of the Gas Sales Agreement, FEEB, which is the operator of the Shouyang Field, and CUCBM entered into a letter agreement (the "Acceptance Letter") under which FEEB acknowledged that sales by CUCBM under the Gas Sales Agreement would constitute the joint marketing and sales of CBM from the Shouyang Field for purposes of the Shouyang PSC.  The Acceptance Letter further confirmed that FEEB accepted the terms of the Gas Sales Agreement, which named the parties to the Shouyang PSC, including FEEB, as express beneficiaries. On June 12, 2010, FEEB and CUCBM also entered into a letter agreement (the "Letter Agreement") in which they agreed that they would share any value added tax refunds and government subsidies related to gas sales from the Shouyang Field in accordance with their pro rata entitlement to CBM under the PSC. In the Letter Agreement, the parties also acknowledged that the funds received under the Gas Sales Agreement would be allocated in accordance with the Shouyang PSC, which includes an express allocation of funds in accordance with the parties’ working interest therein, subject to certain provisions providing for accelerated recovery of operational, exploration and development expenses prior to the distribution of all surplus CBM.
 

The price to be paid by SPG, excluding the effect of any applicable rebates or subsidies, for CBM under the Gas Sales Agreement will be 1.20 RMB per cubic meter (including tax) until June 12, 2011.  Additionally, enacted Chinese government and Shanxi provincial subsidies equal 0.20 RMB and 0.05 RMB per cubic meter, respectively, for a total of 0.25 RMB per cubic meter.  Thus, the price to be received by CUCBM and FEEB, including subsidies for gas sales that will be allocated between CUCBM and FEEB as agreed under the Letter Agreement, should be approximately 1.45 RMB per cubic meter prior to June 12, 2011. This equates to approximately $6.25 per Mcf at exchange rates as of March 31, 2011. The Chinese news service Xinhua News Agency, has recently advised that the PRC’s CBM subsidy will be increased this summer in conjunction with the release of the 12th Five Year Plan and could be increased as much as 0.2 RMB per cubic meter (or $0.86 per Mcf based on the March 31, 2011 exchange rate).  If implemented, this level of subsidy increase would take our current sales price of $6.25 up to $7.11 per Mcf (inclusive of taxes).  The Gas Sales Agreement also provides for price adjustments in accordance with changes to the published Chinese national natural gas price and annual price adjustments based on the parties’ mutual agreement. If the parties do not agree on a new price, the then-current price shall continue in effect and either party may seek to resolve any pricing dispute pursuant to arbitration.  SPG is obligated to pay for all CBM monthly in advance, based on anticipated deliveries for the coming month.

The Gas Sales Agreement does not have any minimum delivery obligations, but it does require that all CBM produced at the Shouyang Field up to 300,000 cubic meters (10,584,000 cubic feet) per day be sold to SPG and production in excess of such shall be subject to further agreement.  The parties agreed to use reasonable efforts to provide a steady, stable supply of gas and to provide the same amount of CBM during the summer and the winter.  This is relevant for FEEB because typically gas demand is significantly higher in the winter than the summer, so the Gas Sales Agreement is structured to provide for even demand levels and delivery requirements, without setting any minimum requirements or ‘deliver or pay’ obligations on the seller.  Each party is to notify the other at least 30 days before it is able to deliver or receive gas.  In order to deliver our gas, we needed to install an in-field gathering system as well as a field compression facility to increase the gas pressure to the pressure required for delivery.  This was completed in late December 2010.  Once the initial gas delivery and acceptance date is set, if one party fails to deliver or receive gas on such date, then it shall pay the other party 5% of the value of CBM comprising such shortfall.  After initial CBM deliveries commence, if either party fails to deliver gas or receive gas as nominated for the month, and it fails to notify the other party that it will not deliver or receive such quantity of gas, then the non-performing party will pay the other party a penalty based upon 10% of the value of 80% of the portion of gas not delivered or received, as applicable.

During the initial 180 days following the first delivery of CBM under the Gas Sales Agreement (the "Commissioning Period"), the parties are required to make reasonable efforts to deliver and accept CBM in an amount not to exceed the Daily Volume Limit.  Thereafter, SPG will be required to accept and pay for all deliveries of CBM produced under the Shouyang PSC up to the Daily Volume Limit.  If at any time after the Commissioning Period SPG fails to accept any CBM delivered to the delivery point up to the Daily Volume Limit, other than due to force majeure, required maintenance or breakdowns, SPG will pay an amount equal to the sales price of 80% of the amount it refuses to accept.  If SPG refuses to accept gas, neither CUCBM nor FEEB will be required to provide make-up gas in the future.

The northern portion of the Shouyang Block is being closely monitored and work programs are being carried out there to achieve three primary goals: (i) to expand the area in our initial 1H Pilot Area where critical desorption and gas production are occurring, thereby increasing gas production, (ii) to determine the optimal approach to minimize costs and maximize gas recovery and (iii) to add pilot development test wells spaced at intervals of several kilometers across the entire Shouyang Block to help delineate the geographic extent of the high permeability and high gas content area.  In pursuit of these goals in our initial 1H Pilot Area, we had drilled and completed the following wells by the end of March 31, 2011:
 
 
   
Wells Drilled and
Completed as of
March 31, 2011
 
Horizontal
    6  
Vertical
    18  
Deviated
    22  
Pilot Development Test
    13  
      59  
 
Drilling activity in our Shouyang Block during the first quarter of 2011 is summarized as follows:
 
   
Wells Spuded, Drilling Not Completed
 
Wells Completed
           
Pilot
             
Pilot
   
Quarter Ended
 
Vertical
 
Deviated
 
Development Test
 
Total
 
Vertical
 
Deviated
 
Development Test
 
Total
March 31, 2011
 
            1
 
             1
 
                            5
 
          7
 
          1
 
            4
 
                            1
 
      6

At the end of March 31, 2011, the Company had 47 wells producing gas (both flared or sold) in the Shouyang Block. Additionally, as of that date, one well has been abandoned in the Shouyang Block, and no dry holes have been drilled.

The deviated wells represent another phase in the process of reducing costs.  These are essentially vertical wells drilled at a very high angle from an existing well pad and location. Utilizing an existing well location allows more than one well to be drilled from the same pad, consequently reducing land and pad construction costs, as well as reducing environmental impact.  Once drilled to the coal seam, the wells were fracture stimulated.  We have gained insights over time as to situations where cavitation or hydraulic fracture stimulation may improve our dewatering efficiency in the pilot area.  Hydraulic fracturing is a stimulation method successfully used in gas shale and other coalbed reservoirs to improve wellbore productivity by providing channels that extend beyond any formation damage done to the wellbore during the drilling process.  This allows for water and gas to more easily flow into the wellbore and then be produced.  The fracturing activity during the first quarter of 2011 is summarized as follows:

   
Fracturing
 
                   
Quarter Ended
 
Workovers
   
New Wells
   
Total
 
March 31, 2011
    8       7       15  
 
Current plans call for 5 to 8 rigs to continue a drilling program of 60 pilot production and pilot development test wells which commenced in September 2010 and is scheduled to run through the third quarter of 2011. Approximately 50 of the wells have been or will be drilled in the initial 1H Pilot Area to increase gas production and gas sales.  Proceeds of $17.5 million raised from the March 2011 registered direct placement will be used to drill additional wells to add to production, to accelerate drilling of additional pilot development test wells that will cover the far reaches of the Shouyang Block, and also to possibly drill two 5-well clusters.  The five well clusters or "5 spots" may aid in the establishment of additional Chinese reserves for ODP purposes and perhaps establish additional pilot production areas with our ongoing pilot development work program.  We have been drilling pilot development test wells at approximately 4 to 5 kilometer intervals to the west and south of the pilot area, with the goal of providing data to support the full extent of the large area of the northern Shouyang Block (pilot area) that contains high gas content as well as good permeability characteristics. We have recently begun to drill pilot development test wells to the east and southeast of the initial 1H Pilot Area. Through the pilot development test wells we seek to determine what portion of the northern area of the Shouyang Block shares the same rare combination of high permeability and high gas content discovered in the initial 1H Pilot Area.  In addition to the permeability of 80 to 100
 
 
millidarcies determined in the various wells drilled in the initial 1H Pilot Area, the following table reflects the permeability determined in the pilot development test wells drilled subsequently in the Shouyang Block:

Drilled &
     
Permeability
Completed In
 
 Well Name
 
 (Millidarcies - mD)
2008
 
 P2
 
 20-40
2009
 
 P3
 
 10-20
2009
 
 P4
 
50
2010
 
 P5
 
 50-70
2010
 
 P6
 
30
2010
 
 P7
 
140
2010
 
 P11
 
50
2010
 
 P13
 
120
2010
 
 P14
 
180
2010
 
 P15
 
300
 
With permeabilities ranging from 10 millidarcies to 300 millidarcies, the number 15 coal seam in the expanded areas tested appears to have areas of high permeability coupled with high gas content.

A distant pilot development test well has been drilled approximately 22 kilometers to the south of the initial 1H Pilot Area and further test wells are planned to be drilled substantially to the south of that to test the limits of the high permeability and high gas content of the Shouyang block coal seams.

We are in the process of obtaining Chinese reserve certification to support the submission of the ODP which will be filed as soon as possible.

Qinnan Block, Shanxi Province. The exploration period of the Qinnan PSC in Shanxi Province expired on June 30, 2009, and we cannot continue our exploration activities in the Qinnan Block without an extension or a new PSC.  We are continuing to pursue an extension of the exploration period of the Qinnan PSC, but we cannot be optimistic at this time. The Company believes the underlying exploration period should be extended due to events beyond its reasonable control, namely the lengthy transfer of rights taking place from CUCBM to China National Petroleum Company ("CNPC").  At CNPC’s request, we have provided certain operational and financial information about our Company to assist them in the decision making process for recognizing an extension of the exploration period in Qinnan.  CNPC has completed an accounting audit pursuant to the Qinnan PSC of our expenditures for 2007 and 2008.  We have also provided to CNPC at their request our work plan for 2010 for Qinnan.  In January 2011, we received a formal notice from CNPC that it has purportedly received all Chinese approvals with respect to the transfer and has requested that we execute a modification agreement to confirm CNPC as our Chinese partner company for the Qinnan PSC.  Currently, the modification agreement is under review and discussion.  There can be no assurance that we will be successful in extending the exploration period of the Qinnan PSC or that a new PSC will be granted. Additionally, in connection with obtaining this extension or a new PSC, we may be required to commit to certain expenditures or to modify the terms or respective ownership interests and/or acreage in the applicable PSC.

In March of 2009, we entered into a series of transactions related to our Qinnan Block with Dart Energy.  For additional information, see Item 1 – "Business" of our 2010 Annual Report.
 
Enhong-Laochang Area, Yunnan Province.  Currently, we are conducting a strategic review of our Yunnan holdings to determine whether they fit within our risk profile given the tight capital markets and ongoing economic downturn.  We take into consideration, among other factors, our overall corporate strategy, the prospective costs and benefits of the acreage, our relationship with our Chinese partner companies and our current cash position in order to formulate an optimal strategy for the Company.  The strategy may include,
 
 
but not be limited to: (i) minimal capital spending to continue holding the acreage, (ii) sale, farmout or partial farmout of the acreage, (iii) full or partial relinquishment of the acreage, or (iv) continued staged exploration of the acreage.  We have not yet concluded this review and cannot make any projection as to the likely outcome of this review.  Moreover, CUCBM will have its own view and certain outcomes will be subject to CUCBM and MOC approval. In December 2010 we mobilized a drilling company to fracture stimulate 5 wells that we had drilled to test the number 7+8 and number 19 coal seams in Laochang area.  These two seams have good gas content based on lab analysis and significant thickness to merit testing for commercial production.  Stimulation operations were completed on January 19, 2011 and the frac company demobilized from the field.  However, bad weather prevented the equipment from reaching the field in time to put the wells on production before the Chinese New Year holiday.  Therefore, the planned operations were suspended until February 15, 2011 to allow for the roads to improve and the crews to return from the holiday.  The dewatering operation started on March 18, 2011 in all five wells of the clustered pilot. With casing pressure of 0.41 Mpa and fluid level several hundred meters above the top of the targeted coal seams, a small amount of gas began to be produced and flared.  More gas is anticipated to come with dewatering process going forward.

We have learned that CNPC has undertaken a pipeline construction project with support from the Yunnan provincial government to extend the Myanmar-China natural gas pipeline to pass through the city of Kunming, then go northward through the city of Zhaotong, and finally connect with major interprovincial pipelines in Sichuan Province. Further, the pipeline plans are expected to include a branch that is intended to connect Kunming to Qujing.  We believe that the construction, which would lay pipelines closer to our projects in the Yunnan Province, would help reduce the cost for CBM off-take from our projects and increase our ability to eventually deliver gas to consumers.

Production Sharing Contracts. Our operations in the Shouyang and Qinnan Blocks in Shanxi Province and the Enhong-Laochang area of Yunnan Province are conducted under three separate PSCs.  The two Shanxi PSCs and the Yunnan PSC will expire on July 1, 2032 and January 1, 2033, respectively, subject to achieving required work and expenditure requirements, the existence of commercially productive reserves and unless extended or otherwise amended.

The three PSCs are divided into three periods: exploration, development and production.  The Enhong-Laochang Area, Yunnan Province and Shouyang PSCs are in the exploration period. The stated date for expiration of the exploration period of the Qinnan PSC occurred on June 30, 2009 and is the subject of our discussions with CNPC.  For additional information regarding our extension request for the Qinnan PSC, see "Qinnan Block, Shanxi Province" above.  Currently, we bear all exploration costs for discovering and evaluating CBM-bearing areas during the exploration period.  If any CBM field is discovered, the development costs for that CBM field will be borne by us and CUCBM (or CNPC after CUCBM’s interest is officially transferred) in proportion to the respective participating interests in the PSC. Once commercial production commences, after the deduction of any royalties or value added taxes, a portion of production will be allocated in accordance with the parties’ participating interests, and the majority (70% for Yunnan, 75% for Qinnan and Shouyang) of production will be reserved for cost recovery before being distributed to the parties.  Cost recovery CBM is first allocated to reimbursement for operating costs, then exploration costs and pre-contract costs of CUCBM, and lastly development costs plus accrued interest.

During the third quarter of 2009, the MOC approved modification agreements to extend the exploration periods for the Shouyang PSC and the Yunnan PSC to June 30, 2011. CUCBM is our Chinese partner company in these PSCs and has the right to participate in up to 30% of the interest in the Shouyang PSC and up to 40% of the interest in the Yunnan PSC.  For additional information regarding the status of discussion related to an extension of the exploration period in the Qinnan Block, see "Qinnan Block, Shanxi Province" above.

During the exploration period, all expenditures are funded by us.  Expenditures in the development and
 
 
production periods are funded in proportion to the respective participating share of the participants in the PSC.  If we satisfy the conditions to the Farmout Agreement, including obtaining approval from our Chinese partners and the MOC, and successfully assign 75.25% of our participating interest in the Qinnan PSC to Dart Energy, Dart Energy would make an initial payment of approximately $8 million to us, become the operator under the Qinnan PSC, and, subject to certain conditions, would fund all exploration costs associated with the Qinnan PSC up to a maximum of $30 million.  Since December 19, 2009, each of the Company and Dart Energy has had the right to terminate the Farmout Agreement at any time, though neither party has elected to exercise that right, and we are continuing to use efforts to satisfy the conditions contemplated by the Farmout Agreement.  In conjunction with entering into the Farmout Agreement, FEEB issued and we guaranteed the Exchangeable Note to Dart Energy with an aggregate principal amount of $10 million.  The Exchangeable Note bears interest at a rate of 8% per annum, which began to accrue on October 16, 2009, and originally matured on March 13, 2011, unless repaid earlier.  On March 10, 2011, the parties agreed to extend the remaining balance of the Exchangeable Note of $3.2 million plus approximately $1.1 million in accrued interest to a new maturity date of September 15, 2011 (the "Maturity Date").  Interest will continue to accrue on the remaining principal balance at the original 8% annual rate.  Principal and interest are due and payable on the Maturity Date or earlier if payment is accelerated upon the occurrence and continuance of an event of default.  Dart Energy has the right at any time to exchange the Exchangeable Note in whole or in part for shares of the Company’s common stock, par value $0.001 per share (the "Common Stock") at an exchange rate of 21,052.63 shares per $10,000 (or $0.475 per share) of principal and interest (the "Exchange Rate"), subject to certain equitable adjustment mechanisms in the event of a sale of the Company, stock split or similar occurrence.  During the first quarter of 2011, Dart Energy exercised its right to exchange a total of $6.8 million in principal amount under the Exchangeable Note for 14,315,789 shares of Common Stock in the aggregate through the series of transactions.  Dart Energy has informed the Company that it has sold all of the acquired shares through block trades with institutional investors.

If the Farmout Agreement conditions are met prior to the termination of the Farmout Agreement and Dart Energy reaches such $30 million cap, FEEB and Dart Energy would share further Qinnan development costs and any future revenues in proportion to the participating interests in the Qinnan PSC, provided that FEEB may, in its discretion, instead elect to assign all of its interest in the Qinnan PSC to Dart Energy subject to retaining a 2% overriding royalty interest.  In addition, under the Farmout Agreement, if we obtain Chinese governmental approval of an overall development plan for the Qinnan area after satisfaction of the conditions to the Farmout Agreement, Dart Energy will pay FEEB an additional $8 million in cash as a bonus, and FEEB will have the option to assign all of its interest in the Qinnan PSC to Dart Energy, while retaining a 5% overriding royalty interest.  Qualified project costs incurred under the PSCs by us during the exploration period can be recovered from the value of the first 75% of gross production of CBM for the two Shanxi Province PSCs and 70% of gross production of CBM for the Yunnan PSC.  In accordance with relevant government regulations, allocations for value added taxes and state royalties will be deducted before the allocation of proceeds or CBM to the parties to the PSCs.  In addition, with respect to the Shouyang and Qinnan PSCs, our company must pay ConocoPhillips, Inc. a 3.5% overriding royalty on production.

 
Results of Operations
 
Three Months Ended March 31, 2011 vs. Three Months Ended March 31, 2010:
 
The table below sets out major components of our expenditures (in thousands):
 
   
Three months ended March 31,
 
   
2011
   
2010
 
Additions to Unevaluated
           
Oil and Gas Properties (capitalized)
           
- Shouyang Block, Shanxi Province (1)
  $ 4,128     $ 984  
Exploration Expenditures (expensed)
               
- Shouyang Block, Shanxi Province
    472       412  
- Qinnan Block, Shanxi Province
    1,084       138  
- Yunnan Province
    121       483  
- Total
    1,677       1,033  
Lease Operating Expenditures (expensed)
               
- Shouyang Block, Shanxi Province
    750       433  
- Qinnan Block, Shanxi Province
    1       42  
- Accretion Cost on ARO
    15       10  
- Total
    766       485  
                 
Total Exploration and Operating Expenditures
  $ 6,571     $ 2,502  
                 
General and Administrative Expenses
  $ 2,128     $ 1,714  
 
 
(1)
Capitalized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

The costs of drilling exploratory wells are capitalized on the Consolidated Balance Sheets as Additions to Unevaluated Oil and Gas Properties pending determination of whether they have discovered proved commercial reserves.  If it is determined that no proved commercial reserves are discovered, the related capitalized costs will be expensed on the Consolidated Statements of Operations.   Other exploration and lease operating expenditures are charged to expense as incurred.

The table below sets out the operating expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Operations (in thousands):

   
Three months ended March 31,
 
   
2011
   
2010
 
Exploration costs
  $ 1,677     $ 1,033  
Lease operating expense
    766       485  
General and Administrative
    2,128       1,714  
Total
  $ 4,571     $ 3,232  
 
The table below sets out components of exploration costs for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and March 31, 2010 (in thousands):
 
   
Three months ended March 31,
 
   
2011
   
2010
 
Technical personnel compensation
  $ 197     $ 145  
PSC related payments
    239       231  
Contract drilling & related expenses
    1,241       657  
Total
  $ 1,677     $ 1,033  
 
Exploration costs for the three months ended March 31, 2011 increased $0.7 million due primarily to an increase in contract and drilling related expenses including well stimulation, reserves analysis, crop compensation and road access fees.

The table below sets out components of lease operating expense ("LOE") for the three-month periods ended March 31, 2011 and 2010 (in thousands):

 
Three months ended March 31,
 
   
2011
   
2010
 
Workovers
  $ 68     $ 79  
Pumping Related Costs
    641       362  
Accretion Cost on ARO
    15       10  
Supervision
    42       34  
Total
  $ 766     $ 485  
 
LOE for the three months ended March 31, 2011 was comprised of costs pertaining to the production and dewatering efforts in the Shouyang and Qinnan Blocks in Shanxi Province.  LOE for the three months ended March 31, 2011 increased, due primarily to an increase in pumping related costs, including an increase in the number of wells operating.

General and administrative ("G&A") expenses for the three months ended March 31, 2011 increased $0.4 million due primarily to increases in investor relations of $0.2 million, travel of $0.1 million and payroll related expenses of $0.1 million.

Capital Resources and Liquidity. Although gas sales under the Gas Sales Agreement commenced in the first quarter of 2011, our primary source of cash flow has been cash proceeds from public offerings and private placements of our common stock and warrants to purchase our common stock, and the exercise of warrants and options to purchase our common stock.

On March 16, 2011, we completed a transaction for the sale of 34.9 million shares of our common stock at $0.5025 per share for net proceeds of $16.7 million under our shelf registration statement.

Work Program Funding. Our current work programs would satisfy the minimum exploration expenditures for our Shouyang and Yunnan PSCs for 2011.  With respect to the Qinnan PSC, we have halted activities on the Qinnan Block pending regulatory approval or denial.  Management intends to seek to secure capital by, first, obtaining project, debt or equity related financing,  refinancing or extending our existing debt or, if acceptable project or debt financing or refinancing is unavailable, by obtaining equity related financing or exploring potential strategic relationships or transactions involving one or more of our PSCs, such as a joint venture, farmout, merger, acquisition or sale of some or all of our assets, and by seeking to obtain approval from our Chinese partner company and the MOC with respect to, and satisfying the other conditions under, the Farmout Agreement with Dart Energy.  However, there can be no assurance that we will be successful in securing capital or raising funds through project, debt or equity related financing or refinancing or extending our existing debt, entering into any strategic relationship or transaction or in satisfying the conditions under
 
 
the Farmout Agreement with Dart Energy. In addition, the terms and conditions of any potential strategic relationship or transaction or of any project, debt or equity related financing are uncertain and we cannot predict the timing, structure or other terms and conditions or the consideration that may be paid with respect to any transaction or offering of securities and whether the consideration will meet or exceed our offering price. Under certain circumstances, the structure of a strategic transaction may require the approval of the Chinese authorities, which could delay closing or make the consummation of a transaction more difficult.  In particular, any transfer of our rights under the PSCs will require the approval of our Chinese partner company and the MOC.  There can be no assurance that the Chinese authorities will provide the approvals necessary for a transaction or transfer.  There can be no guarantee of future success in capital acquisition, fundraising or exploration success or that we will realize the value of our unevaluated exploratory well costs.  Based on our planned work programs, which includes an accelerated pace of drilling in late 2010 and into 2011, if we do not secure additional capital, or enter into an agreement with a strategic partner, we believe that the funds currently available to us should provide sufficient cash to fund our planned expenditures under the Shouyang PSC and other minimum operating costs until near the end of the fourth quarter of 2011.  Our ability to continue as a going concern depends upon our ability to obtain substantial funds for use in our development activities and upon the success of our planned exploration and development activities. There can be no guarantee of future capital acquisition, fundraising or exploration success or that we will realize the value of our unevaluated exploratory well costs. However, in addition to revenue generated, management believes that we will continue to be successful in securing any funds necessary to continue as a going concern.

On March 13, 2009, the Company and FEEB entered into a series of transactions related to our Qinnan Block with Dart Energy.  Specifically, on that date, among other things, (i) FEEB and Dart Energy entered into the Farmout Agreement  under which, subject to certain conditions, FEEB would assign to Dart Energy 75.25% of its rights (the "Assignment") in the Qinnan PSC and (ii) FEEB issued an Exchangeable Note, $10 million initial principal amount (the "Exchangeable Note"), to Dart Energy for $10 million in cash.

Farmout Agreement. The Farmout Agreement, as amended, conditions the Assignment on, among other things, the receipt of required approvals from the government of the PRC (collectively, the "Farm-In Conditions") on or prior to December 19, 2009 or such later date as the parties may agree upon (the "Farm-In Deadline").  Interest on the Exchangeable Note began to accrue on October 16, 2009.  Since December 19, 2009, each of the Company and Dart Energy has had the right to terminate the Farmout Agreement at any time, though neither party has elected to exercise that right, and the parties are continuing to use efforts to satisfy the conditions contemplated by the Farmout Agreement.  There can be no assurance that our Chinese partners or the MOC will approve the Farmout Agreement, and we cannot be optimistic at this time.  The parties are required to exercise their respective commercially reasonable efforts in good faith to satisfy the Farm-In Conditions.  Under the Farmout Agreement, upon satisfaction of the Farm-In Conditions, Dart Energy would make an initial payment to the Company of $8 million, and, subject to certain other conditions, including government approval for the extension of the current exploration period, Dart Energy would fund all exploration costs associated with the Qinnan PSC up to a maximum of $30 million.  After Dart Energy reaches such $30 million cap, FEEB and Dart Energy would share further Qinnan area exploration costs in proportion to their participating interests in the Qinnan PSC, provided that FEEB would, in its discretion, instead be able to elect to assign all of its interest in the Qinnan PSC to Dart Energy, subject to retaining a 2% overriding royalty interest.  In addition, under the Farmout Agreement, if the parties obtain Chinese governmental approval of an ODP for the Qinnan area, Dart Energy would pay FEEB an additional $8 million in cash as a bonus, and FEEB would have the option to assign all of its interest in the Qinnan PSC to Dart Energy, while retaining a 5% overriding royalty interest.  If an overall development program is approved, then FEEB and Dart Energy would share related development costs and any future revenues for such area on a pro-rata basis in accordance with their participating interests in the Qinnan PSC.  If our Chinese partner or the MOC does not approve the agreement in an expedient manner, the parties may seek to modify certain terms of the Farmout Agreement.
 

Exchangeable Note.  The Exchangeable Note had an initial principal amount of $10 million and bears interest at a rate of 8% per annum, which began to accrue on October 16, 2009, and originally matured on March 13, 2011, unless repaid earlier.  On March 10, 2011, the parties agreed to extend the remaining balance of the Exchangeable Note of $3.2 million plus approximately $1.1 million in accrued interest to a new maturity date of September 15, 2011 (the "Maturity Date").  Interest will continue to accrue on the remaining principal balance at the original 8% annual rate.   Principal and interest are due and payable on the Maturity Date or earlier if payment is accelerated upon the occurrence and continuance of an event of default (addressed below).

Dart Energy has the right at any time to exchange the Exchangeable Note in whole or in part for shares of the Company’s Common Stock, par value $0.001 per share,  at an exchange rate of 21,052.63 shares per $10,000 (or $0.475 per share) of principal and interest (the "Exchange Rate"), subject to certain equitable adjustment mechanisms in the event of a sale of the Company, stock split or similar occurrence.  Dart Energy exercised its right to exchange a total of $6.8 million in principal amount under the Exchangeable Note for 14,315,789 shares of Common Stock in the aggregate through the series of transactions.  Dart Energy has informed the Company that it has sold all of the acquired shares through block trades with institutional investors.

The Exchangeable Note contains certain restrictive covenants applicable to the Company and FEEB, including, among others, restrictions on the incurrence of indebtedness that ranks senior to or pari passu with the Exchangeable Note and restrictions on FEEB's ability to sell all of its rights under Shouyang PSC.  The Company has guaranteed FEEB's payment obligations under the Exchangeable Note.

Our capital resources and planning can be impacted by fluctuations in the U.S. Dollar and Chinese RMB exchange rate as well as inflation in these countries.  For further discussion of these risks, see Item 3. "Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk."

Cash Flows.  As of March 31, 2011, our balance in cash and cash equivalents was $33.9 million, an increase of $6.1 million from the balance of $27.8 million as of December 31, 2010.  The increase was due primarily to the sale under our shelf registration statement of 34.9 million shares of our common stock for total net proceeds of $16.7 million, partially offset by $3.1 million and $7.5 million cash used by operating activities and investing activities, respectively.

Cash used in operating activities for the three months ended March 31, 2011 was $3.1 million as compared to cash used in operating activities for the same period in 2010 of $2.4 million.  The increase in cash used in operating activities was due primarily to an increase in exploratory contract drilling expenses of $0.6 million, an increase in cash G&A of $0.4 million and an increase in LOE pumping related costs of $0.3 million offset by a $1.0 million favorable change in working capital.

Cash used in investing activities for the three months ended March 31, 2011 was $7.5 million as compared to $0.8 million for the same period in 2010.  The increase was primarily due to an increase in additions to oil and gas properties of $6.5 million.

Cash provided by financing activities for the three months ended March 31, 2011 was $16.7 million as a result of the sale of 34.9 million shares of our common stock.  Cash provided by financing activities for the three months ended March 31, 2010 was $4.6 million as a result of the sale of 11.7 million shares of our common stock and warrants to the purchase of up to 4.7 million shares of our common stock.  


Forward-Looking Statements.  This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21B of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"). All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this report, including statements regarding our future financial position, business strategy and plans and objectives of management for future operations, are forward-looking statements.  The words "believe," "may," "will," "plan," "estimate," "continue," "anticipate," "intend," "expect," "project," and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements.

We have based these forward-looking statements largely on our current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs.  Although we believe that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, there can be no assurance that the actual results or developments we anticipate will be realized or, even if substantially realized, that they will have the expected effects on our business or operations. Actual results could differ materially from those projected in such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in such forward-looking statements include: the gas produced at our wells may not increase to commercially viable quantities or may decrease; certain of the proposed transactions with Dart Energy may not close on a timely basis or at all, including due to a failure to satisfy closing conditions or otherwise; the anticipated benefits to us of the transactions with Dart Energy may not be realized; the final amounts received by us from Dart Energy may be different than anticipated; the MOC may not approve the extension of the Qinnan PSC on a timely basis or at all; our Chinese partner companies or the MOC may require certain changes to the terms and conditions of our PSC in conjunction with their approval of any extension of the Qinnan PSC; our lack of operating history; limited and potentially inadequate management of our cash resources; the pipelines currently under consideration may not be constructed, or if constructed may not be timely, or their routes may differ from those currently anticipated; the pipeline and local distribution/compressed natural gas companies may decline to purchase or take our gas, or the timing of any definitive agreement may take longer than anticipated and the terms may not as advantageous as expected; risk and uncertainties associated with exploration, development and production of CBM; expropriation and other risks associated with foreign operations; disruptions in capital markets affecting fundraising; matters affecting the energy industry generally; lack of availability of oil and gas field goods and services; environmental risks; drilling and production risks; changes in laws or regulations affecting our operations, as well as other risks described in our 2010 Annual Report and subsequent filings with the SEC.

When you consider these forward-looking statements, you should keep in mind these factors, the risk factors set forth in our 2010 Annual Report and this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q under "Item 1A. Risk Factors" and in other filings with the SEC and the other cautionary statements in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. Our forward-looking statements speak only as of the date made. All subsequent oral and written forward-looking statements attributable to us or persons acting on our behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by these factors. We assume no obligation to update any of these statements.


ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

In addition to the U.S. Dollar, we conduct our business in Chinese RMB and, therefore, are subject to foreign currency exchange risk on cash flows related to expenses and investing transactions. Prior to July 2005, the exchange rate between U.S. Dollars and Chinese RMB was fixed, and, consequently, we experienced no fluctuations in the value of goods and services we purchased in China because of currency exchange.  In July 2005, the Chinese government began to permit the Chinese RMB to float against the U.S. Dollar.  All of our costs to operate our Chinese offices are paid in Chinese RMB.  Our exploration costs in China may be incurred under contracts denominated in Chinese RMB or U.S. Dollars.  During the first quarter of 2011, the U.S. Dollar ($) to Chinese RMB (¥) remained steady at an exchange rate of about $1 to ¥6.57.  If the Chinese RMB appreciates with respect to the U.S. Dollar, our costs in China may increase.  To date we have not engaged in hedging activities to hedge our foreign currency exposure.  In the future, we may enter into hedging instruments to manage our foreign currency exchange risk or continue to be subject to exchange rate risk.  To date we have not engaged in hedging activities to hedge our foreign currency exposure.  In the future, we may enter into hedging instruments to manage our foreign currency exchange risk or continue to be subject to exchange rate risk.  If the exchange rate increased by 10%, it is estimated that our costs would be approximately $0.7 million lower for the first quarter of 2011.  If the exchange rate were 10% lower during the first quarter of 2011, our costs would increase by approximately $0.9 million.

Although inflation has not materially impacted our operations in the recent past, increased inflation in China or the U.S. could have a negative impact on our operating and general and administrative expenses, as these costs could increase.  In the last couple of years, we have increased our use of Chinese suppliers, including drilling contractors, that are paid in RMB.  In 2009, 2010 and the first three months of 2011, China did not experience any significant inflation.  In the future, inflation in China may result in higher minimum expenditure requirements under our PSCs if our Chinese partner companies adjust these requirements for inflation.  The actual inflationary impact on the Company may also be exacerbated by the increasing demand for goods and services in the oil and gas industry.  A material increase in these costs as a result could adversely affect our operations and, if there are material changes in our costs, we may seek to obtain additional funds earlier than anticipated.

ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Disclosure Controls and Procedures.  We carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our chief executive officer and chief financial officer, of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) of the Exchange Act as of the end of the period covered by this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.  Based upon that evaluation, our chief executive officer and chief financial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of the period covered by this report.

Internal Control Over Financial Reporting.  There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period covered by this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.


0BPART II  OTHER INFORMATION

FAR EAST ENERGY CORPORATION
 
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
 
In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part I, "Item 1A. Risk Factors" in our 2010 Annual Report, which could materially affect our business, financial condition, or future results.  The risks described in our 2010 Annual Report are not the only risks facing our company.  Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem to be immaterial also may materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and/or operating results.

Risks Relating to Our Business

We must obtain additional capital in order to continue our operations.

Although we commenced gas sales under the Gas Sales Agreement in the first quarter of 2011, we are not able to predict exactly when we will recognize significant revenues.  We expect to experience operating losses and negative cash flow until gas offtake commences under the Gas Sales Agreement and production levels in the Shouyang Block increase sufficiently.  On March 13, 2009, we entered into a series of related transactions with Dart Energy associated with our Qinnan Block.  The transactions with Dart Energy included a Farmout Agreement (the “Farmout Agreement”), which is subject to approval by our Chinese partner company and the Chinese Ministry of Commerce (the “MOC”).  If our Chinese partner company and the MOC approve the Farmout Agreement, Dart Energy would be obligated to pay us $8 million and fund certain exploration costs.  However, there can be no assurance that the approvals for the Farmout Agreement will be received, and we cannot be optimistic at this time.  Moreover, since December 19, 2009, each of Dart Energy and the Company has had the right to terminate the Farmout Agreement at any time, though neither party has elected to exercise that right.  The Exchangeable Note bears interest at a rate of 8% per annum, which began to accrue on October 16, 2009, and originally matured on March 13, 2011, unless repaid earlier.  On March 10, 2011, the parties agreed to extend the remaining balance of the Exchangeable Note of $3.2 million plus approximately $1.1 million in accrued interest to a new maturity date of September 15, 2011 (the “Maturity Date”).  Interest will continue to accrue on the remaining principal balance at the original 8% annual rate.  Principal and interest are due and payable on the Maturity Date or earlier if payment is accelerated upon the occurrence and continuance of an event of default.  Dart Energy has the right at any time to exchange the Exchangeable Note in whole or in part for shares of the Company’s common stock, par value $0.001 per share (the “Common Stock”) at an exchange rate of 21,052.63 shares per $10,000 (or $0.475 per share) of principal and interest (the “Exchange Rate”), subject to certain equitable adjustment mechanisms in the event of a sale of the Company, stock split or similar occurrence.  During the first quarter of 2011, Dart Energy exercised its right to exchange a total of $6.8 million in principal amount under the Exchangeable Note for 14,315,789 shares of Common Stock in the aggregate through the series of transactions.  Dart Energy has informed the Company that it has sold all of the acquired shares through block trades with institutional investors.

Management will continue to seek to secure additional capital to continue operations, to meet future expenditure requirements necessary to retain our rights under the production sharing contracts (“PSCs”) and to pay amounts due under the Exchangeable Note to the extent it is not exchanged for shares prior to its maturity date. Management may seek to secure capital by, first, obtaining debt or project financing or refinancing existing debt, or, if acceptable debt or project financing or refinancing is unavailable, by obtaining equity related financing or exploring potential strategic relationships or transactions involving one or more of our PSCs, such as a joint venture, farmout, merger, acquisition or sale of some or all of our assets and by seeking to obtain approval from Chinese partner company and the MOC with respect to, and
 
 
satisfying the other conditions under, the Farmout Agreement with Dart Energy.  The ongoing global financial crisis has created liquidity problems for many companies and financial institutions and international capital markets have stagnated, especially in the United States and Europe. A continuing downturn in these markets could impair our ability to obtain, or may increase our costs associated with obtaining, additional funds through the sale of our securities. The ongoing crisis has created a difficult environment in which to negotiate and consummate a transaction. While we will continue to seek to secure capital, there can be no assurance that we will be able to enter any strategic relationship or transaction or that we will be successful in obtaining funds through debt, project finance or equity related financing or refinancing existing debt. Under certain circumstances, the structure of a strategic transaction may require the approval of the Chinese authorities, which could delay closing or make the consummation of a transaction more difficult or impossible. In particular, any transfer of our rights under any PSC will require the approval of our Chinese partner company. There can be no assurance that the Chinese authorities will provide the approvals necessary for a transaction or transfer. In addition, the terms and conditions of any potential strategic relationship or transaction or of any debt or equity related financing are uncertain and we cannot predict the timing, structure or other terms and conditions of any such arrangements or the consideration that may be paid with respect to any transaction or offering of securities and whether the consideration will meet or exceed our offering price.

Our ability to continue as a going concern depends upon our ability to obtain substantial funds for use in our development activities and upon the success of our planned exploration and development activities.  There can be no guarantee of future capital acquisition, fundraising or exploration success or that we will realize the value of our unevaluated exploratory well costs.  The accompanying consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of this uncertainty.  Management believes that we will continue to be successful in securing any funds necessary to continue as a going concern.

If our operating requirements or drilling obligations materially change from those currently planned, we may require more capital than currently anticipated or may be required to secure capital earlier than anticipated.  For example, it is possible that the Ministry of Land and Resources or our Chinese partner company could seek to, among other things, increase our capital expenditures or accelerate our drilling program. If we are unable to commit to the expenditures or accelerate our drilling and dewatering efforts it may adversely affect our ability to extend the terms of our PSCs.  Raising additional funds by issuing shares or other types of equity securities would further dilute our existing stockholders.  If we fail to obtain the necessary funds to complete our exploration activities under our PSCs, and we cannot obtain extensions to the requirements under our PSCs, we would not be able to successfully complete our exploration and development activities and we may lose rights under our PSCs or we may have to limit the acreage used in the Shouyang Block.

We must obtain extensions for our PSCs to continue our operations in China.

The MOC has approved modification agreements to extend the exploration periods for the Shouyang area of Shanxi Province and the Enhong and Laochang areas of Yunnan Province to June 30, 2011. The exploration period of the Qinnan PSC in Shanxi Province had a stated expiration date of June 30, 2009, and we cannot continue our exploration activities in the Qinnan Block without an extension. China National Petroleum Corporation (“CNPC”) has replaced China United Coalbed Methane Co. ltd. (“CUCBM”) as our Chinese partner company for the Qinnan PSC. We are continuing to pursue an extension of the exploration period of the Qinnan PSC, but we cannot be optimistic at this time. There is a likelihood that our Chinese partner company could issue a new PSC with less favorable terms than those in the current PSC, including a reduction in acreage. At CNPC's request, we have provided certain operational and financial information about our Company to assist them in the decision making process.  CNPC has completed an accounting audit pursuant to the Qinnan PSC of our expenditures for 2007 and 2008.  We have also provided to CNPC at their request our work plan for 2010 for Qinnan.  For many months CNPC has been awaiting authorization from the Chinese government allowing it to deal with foreign partners on CBM projects. We now understand that such authority has been granted to CNPC in the past few months, but we have not yet obtained official confirmation of this.  There can be no assurance that we will be successful in extending the exploration
 
 
period of the Qinnan PSC or that a new PSC will be granted. Additionally, in connection with obtaining this extension or a new PSC, we may be required to commit to certain expenditures or to modify the terms or respective ownership interests and/or acreage in the applicable PSC. However, if we are unable to secure sufficient funds to commit to these expenditures, it may adversely affect our ability to extend the Qinnan PSC.

Additionally, we are the operator under one PSC with CUCBM to develop two areas in the Yunnan Province: Enhong and Laochang. The term of the PSC consists of an exploration period, a development period and a production period. The exploration period is divided into two phases, Phase I and Phase II.  We have completed Phase I and are operating in Phase II.  During the third quarter of 2009, the MOC approved a modification agreement to extend Phase II of the exploration period for the Yunnan PSC to June 30, 2011 from June 30, 2009.  There can be no assurance that we will be successful in extending the exploration period for the Yunnan PSC or that a new PSC will be granted.  It is also possible that CUCBM could elect to issue a new PSC with less favorable terms than the current PSC, including a reduction in acreage.  Under the Yunnan PSC, we have committed to satisfy certain annual minimum exploration expenditure requirements.  Our minimum exploration expenditure requirements for the blocks subject to the PSC are based on the minimum exploration expenditure requirements of CUCBM established by the MLR.  The MLR minimum expenditure requirements are a significant factor that influences the Company's exploration work program.  Under the Yunnan PSC, we are required to pay certain fees totaling $0.4 million in 2011, which are counted toward the satisfaction of the 2011 minimum exploration expenditure requirements. These fees include assistance fees, training fees, fees for CBM exploration rights and salaries and benefits.  Based on the modification agreement, the unfulfilled exploration work commitment will be added to the minimum exploration work commitment for the following year.  If the Company terminates the Yunnan PSC and there exists an unfulfilled balance on the minimum exploration work commitment, in such case, the Company will be required to pay the balance to CUCBM.

We have a limited source of revenue.

We will not generate material revenues from our existing properties until we have successfully completed exploration and development, and started meaningful production of CBM. Although we commenced sales under the Gas Sales Agreement in the early first quarter of 2011, we are not able to predict exactly when we will recognize significant revenues. SPG has completed its pipeline, which runs within 2 kilometers of our 1H Pilot Area and is being used to transport CBM sold pursuant to the Gas Sales Agreement.  The in-field gathering system and compression equipment were connected to the pipeline in early January 2011.  After completion of that process, low level gas flow commenced in January with initial testing of the gathering system in January.  Gas sales were interrupted while SPG completed testing and commissioning of equipment related to our first stage compressor sites as well as installation of gas sales meters.  That work was completed and formal gas flow and sales re-commenced in mid-March 2011.  Second stage compressor equipment is on site and available for use as needed when volumes increase.  Additionally, no facilities exist to transport or process CBM near our Yunnan Province projects.  Our ability to realize revenues from any producing wells may be impaired until these pipelines or facilities are built out or arrangements are made to deliver our production to market.


ITEM 2.  UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

Issuer Withholdings and Subsequent Cancellations of Equity Securities

Column (a) in the tabulation below indicates shares which were withheld by us to satisfy tax withholding obligations that arose upon the vesting of shares of nonvested stock (also commonly referred to as restricted stock) during the first quarter of 2011.  Once withheld, these shares were cancelled and removed from the number of outstanding shares.  Currently, the Company does not have a share repurchase plan.

Period
 
(a)
Total
Number of
Shares
Purchased
   
(b)
Average
Price Paid
Per Share
   
(c)
Total Number of
Shares Purchased as
Part of Publicly
Announced Plan or
Programs
   
(d)
Maximum Number of
Shares that May Yet
Be Purchased Under
The Plans or Programs
 
January 2011
    7,662     $ 0.67       -       -  
February 2011
    26,597       0.69       -       -  
March 2011
    -       -       -       -  
Total
    34,259     $ 0.68       -       -  
 
ITEM 6.  EXHIBITS

Exhibits required to be attached by Item 601 of Regulation S-K are listed in the Index to Exhibits beginning on page 40 of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, which is incorporated herein by reference.



In accordance with 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.

 
Far East Energy Corporation
 
     
     
 
U/s/ Michael R. McElwrath U
 
 
Michael R. McElwrath
 
 
Chief Executive Officer and President
 
 
(Principal Executive Officer)
 
     
     
 
U/s/ Bruce N. HuffU
 
 
Bruce N. Huff
 
 
Chief Financial Officer
 
 
(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)
 

Date:  May 16, 2011



Exhibit Number
Description
3.1
Articles of Incorporation of the Company, as amended (filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004, which was filed on March 15, 2005, and incorporated herein by reference).
3.2
Amended and Restated Bylaws of the Company (filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 17, 2005, and incorporated herein by reference).
4.1
Articles of Incorporation of the Company, as amended (included as Exhibit 3.1).
4.2
Amended and Restated Bylaws of the Company (included as Exhibit 3.2).
4.3
Specimen stock certificate (filed as Exhibit 4.5 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004, which was filed on March 15, 2005, and incorporated herein by reference).
4.4
Form of Warrant (filed as Exhibit 4.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 27, 2007, and incorporated herein by reference).
4.5
Warrant Agreement, dated August 27, 2007, between the Company and Continental Stock Transfer & Trust Company (filed as Exhibit 4.2 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 27, 2007, and incorporated herein by reference).
4.6
Form of Warrant (filed as Exhibit 4.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 30, 2008, and incorporated herein by reference).
4.7
Warrant Agreement, dated May 30, 2008, between the Company and Continental Stock Transfer & Trust Company (filed as Exhibit 4.2 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 30, 2008, and incorporated herein by reference).
4.8
 
Warrant, dated March 13, 2009, issued to Arrow Energy International Pte Ltd. (filed as Exhibit 4.2 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 16, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference).
4.9
Exchangeable Note, dated March 13, 2009, by Far East Energy (Bermuda), Ltd. for the benefit of Arrow Energy International Pte Ltd. (filed as Exhibit 4.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 16, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference).
4.10
Registration Rights Agreement, dated March 13, 2009, between the Company and Arrow Energy International Pte Ltd. (filed as Exhibit 4.3 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 16, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference).
4.11
Form of Warrant (filed as Exhibit 4.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 9, 2010, and incorporated herein by reference).
4.12
Letter agreement amending Exchangeable Note, dated November 20, 2009, between Far East Energy (Bermuda), Ltd. and Arrow Energy International Pte Ltd (filed as Exhibit 10.01 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 7, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference).
4.13
Form of Common Stock Purchase Warrant (filed as Exhibit 4.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 9, 2010 and incorporated herein by reference).
4.14
Form of Securities Purchase Agreement (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 9, 2010 and incorporated herein by reference).
4.15
Letter agreement amending Exchangeable Note, dated October 6, 2009, between Far East Energy (Bermuda), Ltd. and Arrow Energy International Pte Ltd (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 7, 2009 and incorporated herein by reference).
4.16
Letter agreement amending Exchangeable Note, dated November 20, 2009, between Far East Energy (Bermuda), Ltd. and Arrow Energy International Pte Ltd (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 23, 2009 and incorporated herein by reference).
4.17
Letter agreement amending Exchangeable Note, dated March 10, 2011, between Far East Energy (Bermuda), Ltd. and Dart Energy (CBM) International Pte Ltd (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 14, 2011 and incorporated herein by reference).
10.1*
Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, dated December 23, 2004, by and between the Company and Michael R. McElwrath (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 28, 2004, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.2*
Amended and Restated Nonqualified Stock Option Agreement, dated December 23, 2004, by and between the Company and Michael R. McElwrath (filed as Exhibit 10.3 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 28, 2004, and incorporated herein by reference).
 
 
10.3*
Amended and Restated Nonqualified Stock Option Agreement, dated December 23, 2004, by and between the Company and Michael R. McElwrath (filed as Exhibit 10.4 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 28, 2004, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.4*
Nonqualified Stock Option Agreement, dated December 23, 2004, by and between the Company and Michael R. McElwrath (filed as Exhibit 10.6 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 28, 2004, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.5*
Stock Option Agreement, dated May 18, 2004, by and between the Company and Donald Juckett (filed as Exhibit 10.13 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004, which was filed on March 15, 2005, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.6*
Stock Option Agreement, dated June 18, 2004, by and between the Company and Randall D. Keys (filed as Exhibit 10.14 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004, which was filed on March 15, 2005, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.7*
Stock Option Agreement, dated May 24, 2004, by and between the Company and John C. Mihm (filed as Exhibit 10.15 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004, which was filed on March 15, 2005, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.8*
Stock Option Agreement, dated February 24, 2004, by and between the Company and Thomas Williams (filed as Exhibit 10.16 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004, which was filed on March 15, 2005, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.9
Production Sharing Contract for Exploitation of Coalbed Methane Resources in Enhong and Laochang, Yunnan Province, the People's Republic of China, dated January 25, 2002, by and between China United Coalbed Methane Corp. Ltd. and the Company (filed as Exhibit 2(i) to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on February 11, 2002, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.10
Modification Agreement for Product Sharing Contract for Exploitation of Coalbed Methane Resources in Enhong and Laochang, Yunnan Province, the People's Republic of China, dated October 20, 2005, between China United Coalbed Methane Corporation Ltd. and the Company (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 26, 2005, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.11
Production Sharing Contract for Exploitation of Coalbed Methane Resources for the Qinnan Area in Shanxi Province, Qinshui Basin, the People's Republic of China, dated April 16, 2002, by and between China United Coalbed Methane Corporation Ltd. and the Phillips China Inc. (filed as Exhibit 10.21 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 15, 2005, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.12
Application for the Extension of Phase Two of the Exploration Period under the Qinnan PSC, dated December 2, 2005, by and between the Company and China United Coalbed Methane Corporation Ltd. (filed as Exhibit 10.20 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, which was filed on March 14, 2006, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.13
Application for the Extension of Phase Two of the Exploration Period under the Qinnan PSC, dated March 16, 2006, by and between the Company and China United Coalbed Methane Corporation Ltd. (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 17, 2006, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.14
Approval Certificate from the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Cooperation dated December 30, 2002 (filed as Exhibit 2(i) to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 13, 2003, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.15
Memorandum of Understanding, dated March 18, 2003, by and between Phillips China Inc. and the Company (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Amendment No. 1 to its Quarterly Report on Form 10-QSB/A for the quarter ended June 30, 2003, which was filed on December 24, 2003, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.16
Farmout Agreement Qinnan PSC, dated June 17, 2003, by and between Phillips China Inc. and the Company (filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Amendment No. 1 to its Quarterly Report on Form 10-QSB/A for the quarter ended June 30, 2003, which was filed on December 24, 2003, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.17
First Amendment to Farmout Agreement Qinnan PSC, dated December 15, 2003, by and between Phillips China Inc. and the Company (filed as Exhibit 10.26 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004, which was filed on March 15, 2005, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.18
Second Amendment to Farmout Agreement Qinnan PSC, dated December 17, 2004, by and between Phillips China Inc. and the Company (filed as Exhibit 10.01 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 23, 2004, and incorporated herein by reference).
 
 
10.19
Third Amendment to Farmout Agreement Qinnan PSC, dated December 19, 2005, by and between ConocoPhillips China Inc. and the Company (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 21, 2005, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.20
Assignment Agreement Qinnan PSC, dated June 17, 2003, by and between Phillips China Inc. and the Company (filed as Exhibit 10.4 to the Company's Amendment No. 1 to its Quarterly Report on Form 10-QSB/A for the quarter ended June 30, 2003, which was filed on December 24, 2003, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.21
Farmout Agreement Shouyang PSC, dated June 17, 2003, by and between Phillips China Inc. and the Company (filed as Exhibit 10.3 to the Company's Amendment No. 1 to its Quarterly Report on Form 10-QSB/A for the quarter ended June 30, 2003, which was filed on December 24, 2003, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.22
First Amendment to Farmout Agreement Shouyang PSC, dated December 15, 2003, by and between Phillips China Inc. and the Company (filed as Exhibit 10.30 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004, which was filed on March 15, 2005, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.23
Second Amendment to Farmout Agreement Shouyang PSC, dated December 17, 2004, by and between Phillips China Inc. and the Company (filed as Exhibit 10.02 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 23, 2004, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.24
Third Amendment to Farmout Agreement Shouyang PSC, dated December 19, 2005, by and between ConocoPhillips China Inc. and the Company (filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 21, 2005, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.25
Assignment Agreement Shouyang PSC, dated June 17, 2003, by and between Phillips China Inc. and the Company (filed as Exhibit 10.5 to the Company's Amendment No. 1 to its Quarterly Report on Form 10-QSB/A for the quarter ended June 30, 2003, which was filed on December 24, 2003, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.26
Application for the Extension of Phase Two of the Exploration Period under the Shouyang PSC, dated December 2, 2005, by and between the Company and China United Coalbed Methane Corporation Ltd. (filed as Exhibit 10.46 to Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, which was filed on March 14, 2006, and incorporated herein by a reference).
10.27
Application for the Extension of Phase Two of the Exploration Period under the Shouyang PSC, dated March 16, 2006, by and between the Company and China United Coalbed Methane Corporation Ltd. (filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 17, 2006, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.28*
Far East Energy Corporation 2005 Stock Incentive Plan (filed as Exhibit 10.28 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2009, which was filed on August 10, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.29*
Form of Restricted Stock Agreement for Far East Energy Corporation 2005 Stock Incentive Plan (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 23, 2007, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.30*
Form of Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement for Far East Energy Corporation 2005 Stock Incentive Plan (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 19, 2007, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.31*
Form of Incentive Stock Option Agreement for Far East Energy Corporation 2005 Stock Incentive Plan (filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 19, 2007, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.32*
Form of Letter Agreement with the Company's non-employee directors (filed as Exhibit 10.4 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 19, 2007, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.33*
First Amendment to Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, dated April 16, 2007, between the Company and Michael R. McElwrath (filed as Exhibit 10.5 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 19, 2007, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.34
Modification Agreement, dated April 24, 2007, for Production Sharing Contract for Exploitation of Coalbed Methane Resources for the Shouyang Area in Shanxi Province, Qinshui Basin, the People's Republic of China, dated April 16, 2002, by and among China United Coalbed Methane Corporation Ltd., ConocoPhillips China Inc. and Far East Energy (Bermuda), Ltd. (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 27, 2007, and incorporated herein by reference).
 
 
10.35
Modification Agreement, dated April 24, 2007, for Production Sharing Contract for Exploitation of Coalbed Methane Resources for the Qinnan Area in Shanxi Province, Qinshui Basin, the People's Republic of China, dated April 16, 2002, by and among China United Coalbed Methane Corporation Ltd., ConocoPhillips China Inc. and Far East Energy (Bermuda), Ltd. (filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 27, 2007, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.36
Modification Agreement dated April 24, 2007 for Production Sharing Contract for Exploitation of Coalbed Methane Resources for the Enhong and Laochang Area in Yunnan Province, the People's Republic of China, dated December 3, 2002, between China United Coalbed Methane Corporation Ltd. and Far East Energy (Bermuda), Ltd. (filed as Exhibit 10.3 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 27, 2007, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.37
Stock Subscription Agreement, dated August 24, 2007, between the Company and International Finance Corporation (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 27, 2007, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.38*
Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement, dated October 1, 2007, by and between the Company and William A. Anderson (filed as Exhibit 10.52 to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2007, which was filed on November 7, 2007, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.39*
Second Amendment to Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, dated November 26, 2007, between the Company and Michael R. McElwrath (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 27, 2007, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.40*
Form of Restricted Stock Agreement (filed as Exhibit 4.4 to the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-8 (File No. 333-148363) filed on December 27, 2007, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.41*
Form of Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement (filed as Exhibit 10.54 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007, which was filed on March 13, 2008, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.42*
Restricted Stock Agreement, dated December 27, 2007, between the Company and Michael R. McElwrath (filed as Exhibit 10.55 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007, which was filed on March 13, 2008, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.43*
Restricted Stock Agreement, dated December 27, 2007, between the Company and Thomas E. Williams (filed as Exhibit 10.56 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007, which was filed on March 13, 2008, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.44*
Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement, dated January 9, 2008, between the Company and Lucian L. Morrison (filed as Exhibit 10.58 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007, which was filed on March 13, 2008, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.45*
Employment Agreement, dated March 12, 2008, between Far East Energy (Bermuda), Ltd. and Phil Christian (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 13, 2008, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.46*
Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement, dated March 12, 2008, between the Company and Phil Christian (filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 13, 2008, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.47*
Amended and Restated Nonqualified Stock Option Agreement, dated December 27, 2007, by and between the Company and Thomas Williams (filed as Exhibit 10.61 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007, which was filed on March 13, 2008, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.48*
Second Amended and Restated Nonqualified Stock Option Agreement, dated December 27, 2007, by and between the Company and Michael McElwrath (filed as Exhibit 10.64 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007, which was filed on March 13, 2008, and incorporated herein by reference). The original option agreement was entered into on January 29, 2002.
10.49*
Second Amended and Restated Nonqualified Stock Option Agreement, dated December 27, 2007, by and between the Company and Michael McElwrath (filed as Exhibit 10.65 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007, which was filed on March 13, 2008, and incorporated herein by reference). The original option agreement was entered into on October 13, 2003.
10.50*
Third Amendment to Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, dated March 7, 2008, between the Company and Michael R. McElwrath (filed as Exhibit 10.3 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 13, 2008, and incorporated herein by reference).
 
 
10.51
Stock Subscription Agreement, dated June 2, 2008, between the Company and International Finance Corporation (filed as Exhibit 10.64 to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2008, which was filed on August 6, 2008, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.52*
Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, dated October 1, 2008, by and between the Company and Andrew Lai (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K/A filed on October 6, 2008, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.53*
First Amendment to Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement, dated December 19, 2008, between the Company and Michael McElwrath (filed as Exhibit 10.63 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December, 31, 2009, which was filed on March 30, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference). The original option agreement was entered into on February 2, 2006.
10.54*
Second Amended and Restated Nonqualified Stock Option Agreement, dated January 14, 2009, between the Company and Michael McElwrath (filed as Exhibit 10.64 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December, 31, 2009, which was filed on March 30, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference). The original option agreement was entered into on January 29, 2002.
10.55*
Second Amended and Restated Nonqualified Stock Option Agreement, dated January 14, 2009, between the Company and Thomas Williams (filed as Exhibit 10.65 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December, 31, 2009, which was filed on March 30, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference). This Agreement amended 100,000 options, which vested on or prior to December 31, 2004, of the original option agreement dated February 24, 2004.
10.56*
Third Amended and Restated Nonqualified Stock Option Agreement, dated January 14, 2009, between the Company and Thomas Williams (filed as Exhibit 10.66 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December, 31, 2009, which was filed on March 30, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference). This Agreement amended 300,000 options, which vested on or after January 1, 2005, of the original option agreement dated February 24, 2004.
10.57*
Amended and Restated Nonqualified Stock Option Agreement, dated January 14, 2009, between the Company and John Mihm (filed as Exhibit 10.67 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December, 31, 2009, which was filed on March 30, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference). The original option agreement was entered into on May 24, 2004.
10.58*
Amended and Restated Nonqualified Stock Option Agreement, dated January 14, 2009, between the Company and Don Juckett (filed as Exhibit 10.68 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December, 31, 2009, which was filed on March 30, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference). The original option agreement was entered into on May 18, 2004.
10.59*
First Amendment to Employment Agreement, dated December 19, 2008, between the Company and Phil Christian (filed as Exhibit 10.69 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December, 31, 2009, which was filed on March 30, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.60*
Second Amendment to Employment Agreement, dated December, 31, 2009, between the Company and Phil Christian (filed as Exhibit 10.70 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December, 31, 2009, which was filed on March 30, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.61*
First Amendment to Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, dated December 19, 2008, between the Company and Andrew Lai (filed as Exhibit 10.71 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December, 31, 2009, which was filed on March 30, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.62*
Fourth Amendment to Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, dated December 19, 2008, between the Company and Michael McElwrath (filed as Exhibit 10.72 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December, 31, 2009, which was filed on March 30, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.63*
 
Form of Nonqualified Stock Option Agreement for Far East Energy Corporation 2005 Stock Incentive Plan (filed as Exhibit 10.73 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December, 31, 2009, which was filed on March 30, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.64
 
Securities Purchase Agreement, dated March 13, 2009, among the Company, Far East Energy (Bermuda), Ltd., and Arrow Energy International Pte Ltd. (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 16, 2008, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.65
Farmout Agreement, dated March 13, 2009, between the Company, Far East Energy (Bermuda), Ltd., and Arrow Energy International Pte Ltd. (filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 16, 2008, and incorporated herein by reference).
 
 
10.66*
Fifth Amendment to Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, dated May 18, 2009, between the Company and Michael R. McElwrath (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 18, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.67
Modification Agreement for Production Sharing Contract for Exploitation of Coalbed Methane Resources for the Shouyang Area in Shanxi Province, Qinshui Basin, The People’s Republic of China (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on From 8-K filed on August 27, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.68
Modification Agreement for Production Sharing Contract for Exploitation of Coalbed Methane Resources in Enhong and Laochang Area, Yunnan Province, The People’s Republic of China (filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Current Report on From 8-K filed on August 27, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.69
Agreement, dated October 6, 2009, between Far East Energy (Bermuda), Ltd. And Arrow Energy International Ltd (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 7, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference.)
10.70*
Release of Claims, dated October 6, 2009, by and among Phil Christian, the Company, and Far East Energy (Bermuda), Ltd. (filed as Exhibit 10.70 to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.71
Agreement, dated November 20, 2009, between Far East Energy (Bermuda), Ltd. and Arrow Energy International Ltd (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 23, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.72
Placement Agent Agreement between the Company and Pritchard Capital Partners, LLP (filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 22, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.73
Placement Agent Agreement between Far East Energy Corporation and Rodman & Renshaw, LLC dated February 23, 2010 (filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 9, 2010, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.74
Form of Securities Purchase Agreement (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 9, 2010, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.75*
Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, dated June 9, 2010, between the Company and Bruce N. Huff (filed as Exhibit 10.75 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2010, which was filed on August 16, 2010, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.76
Placement Agent Agreement between Far East Energy Corporation and Religare Capital Markets, Inc. dated March 10, 2011 (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 11, 2011, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.77
Stock Purchase Agreement between Far East Energy Corporation and investors, dated March 11, 2011 (filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 11, 2011, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.78
Summary of Compensatory Arrangements of Certain Officers.  Incorporated by reference from Item 5.02 in the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on February 9, 2011.
10.79
Summary of Compensatory Arrangements of Certain Directors.  Incorporated by reference from Item 11 in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K/A filed on April 29, 2011.
Certification of Chief Executive Officer of the Company under Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
31.2
Certification of Chief Financial Officer of the Company under Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32.1
Certification of Chief Executive Officer of the Company Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Sec. 1350.
32.2
Certification of Chief Financial Officer of the Company Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Sec. 1350.

____________
 
* Management contract or compensatory plan arrangement.
 
† Filed herewith
 
 
45