10-QPeriod: Q3 FY2002

ENTERPRISE PRODUCTS PARTNERS L.P. Quarterly Report for Q3 Ended Sep 30, 2002

Filed November 13, 2002For Securities:EPDEPDU

Summary

Enterprise Products Partners L.P. (EPD) reported its third-quarter and nine-month results for 2002, highlighting significant growth driven by strategic acquisitions. The company expanded its asset base considerably with the July 2002 acquisitions of Mid-America and Seminole pipeline systems, alongside other smaller acquisitions earlier in the year, such as Diamond-Koch's storage and fractionation assets. These expansions significantly broadened EPD's NGL and natural gas network across North America, improving its access to supply basins and end markets. Financially, the third quarter of 2002 saw increased revenues compared to the prior year, largely due to these acquisitions. However, net income for the nine-month period decreased significantly compared to 2001, primarily impacted by substantial losses from commodity hedging activities in early 2002, which contrasted sharply with gains in the prior year. Despite these fluctuations, the company secured a $1.2 billion credit facility to fund its major acquisitions and subsequently raised capital through an equity offering to partially repay debt, indicating a strategic focus on managing its expanded debt obligations and maintaining financial flexibility.

Key Highlights

  • 1Significant expansion of the asset base through major acquisitions in July 2002, including Mid-America and Seminole pipeline systems, adding substantial mileage and market reach.
  • 2Diversification of operations with the acquisition of Diamond-Koch's storage and fractionation assets in early 2002, bolstering Mont Belvieu operations.
  • 3Increased total revenues in the third quarter of 2002 compared to the same period in 2001, primarily attributed to the newly acquired businesses.
  • 4A substantial decrease in net income for the first nine months of 2002 compared to 2001, heavily influenced by significant losses from commodity hedging activities in Q1 2002.
  • 5The company raised approximately $180 million through a common unit offering in October 2002, with proceeds designated for partial repayment of debt incurred for recent acquisitions.
  • 6Expansion of credit facilities and amendments to covenants were undertaken to support strategic growth and manage financial leverage.
  • 7Visible growth in Property, Plant, and Equipment, reflecting the integration of new, large-scale infrastructure assets.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary drivers were significant business acquisitions, particularly the Mid-America and Seminole pipeline systems in July 2002, which expanded the company's asset base and market reach. These acquisitions led to an increase in reported revenues for the quarter compared to the previous year. However, net income for the nine-month period was negatively impacted by substantial losses incurred from commodity hedging activities, a reversal from gains seen in the prior year's comparable period.

The company financed the substantial Mid-America and Seminole acquisitions through a $1.2 billion 364-day credit facility. To manage the increased debt load, EPD completed an equity offering in October 2002, raising approximately $180 million to partially repay this acquisition debt. The company's long-term debt increased significantly from December 2001 to September 2002, reflecting these financing activities. The company also amended its revolving credit facilities to accommodate increased indebtedness and extended maturities.

A significant uncertainty mentioned relates to the company's investment in BEF, which produces MTBE. There is increasing scrutiny and potential regulatory action (state bans and proposed federal bans) against MTBE due to environmental concerns, which could impact BEF's operations and the company's investment. EPD is exploring conversion to alkylate production as a contingency.

The acquisitions, especially Mid-America and Seminole, have dramatically expanded EPD's NGL and natural gas network. This includes accessing new production regions, enhancing its integrated network, and providing access to new end markets. The balance sheet shows a significant increase in Property, Plant, and Equipment, reflecting the integration of these extensive pipeline and storage assets.