10-QPeriod: Q1 FY2008

ENTERPRISE PRODUCTS PARTNERS L.P. Quarterly Report for Q1 Ended Mar 31, 2008

Filed May 12, 2008For Securities:EPDEPDU

Summary

Enterprise Products Partners L.P. (EPD) reported a strong first quarter for 2008, with significant increases in both revenues and net income compared to the same period in 2007. Total revenues more than doubled, driven by higher sales volumes and energy commodity prices across its NGL, natural gas, and petrochemical segments. The company also saw substantial growth in gross operating margin, particularly in its NGL Pipelines & Services and Offshore Pipelines & Services segments, fueled by new asset completions and increased throughput. Capital expenditures remained robust, with a focus on growth projects. The company maintained a strong liquidity position with substantial cash on hand and available credit. Management expressed confidence in its ability to fund future growth through a combination of operating cash flows, debt, and equity markets, supported by its investment-grade credit ratings. The report highlights the successful integration of new assets and continued strategic investments in expanding infrastructure, positioning EPD for continued growth in the midstream energy sector.

Key Highlights

  • 1Total revenues significantly increased to $5.68 billion in Q1 2008 from $3.32 billion in Q1 2007, driven by higher volumes and commodity prices.
  • 2Net income more than doubled to $259.6 million in Q1 2008 from $112.0 million in Q1 2007.
  • 3Gross operating margin showed substantial growth, increasing to $522.2 million from $324.5 million year-over-year, with notable strength in NGL and Offshore segments.
  • 4Capital expenditures for property, plant, and equipment were robust at $617.3 million in Q1 2008, signaling continued investment in growth projects.
  • 5Long-term debt increased to $7.52 billion from $6.91 billion, reflecting strategic financing for expansion and operations.
  • 6Earnings per unit (diluted) increased to $0.51 from $0.20, demonstrating improved profitability on a per-unit basis.
  • 7The company successfully issued $1.1 billion in senior notes in April 2008 to fund its operations and reduce revolving credit facility borrowings.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary driver of the significant increase in revenue was a combination of higher sales volumes and elevated energy commodity prices across the company's NGL, natural gas, and petrochemical marketing activities. Newly constructed assets also contributed to revenue growth.

The company's total long-term debt increased from $6.91 billion at the end of 2007 to $7.52 billion at the end of Q1 2008. This increase is largely due to strategic financing for capital expenditures and operations, including a significant issuance of senior notes in April 2008. Despite the increase in debt, the company maintains an investment-grade credit rating and a strong liquidity position, with ample cash reserves and revolving credit facilities, suggesting continued financial stability.

The company continues to invest heavily in growth capital projects and asset expansion. Key initiatives highlighted in the report include the expansion of the Petal natural gas storage facility, the Meeker II natural gas processing plant, the Sherman Extension Pipeline, and the development of new Rockies natural gas pipeline hubs. These investments are aimed at capitalizing on expected increases in natural gas and crude oil production.

The company expressed confidence in its liquidity and ability to fund future growth. It has a strong cash position, significant available credit under its revolving credit facilities, and access to capital markets for debt and equity issuances. Management believes that maintaining an investment-grade credit rating and access to capital markets provides a solid foundation for meeting its long-term liquidity and capital requirements.