10-QPeriod: Q3 FY2006

Energy Transfer LP Quarterly Report for Q3 Ended Nov 30, 2006

Filed January 16, 2007For Securities:ETET-PI

Summary

Energy Transfer Equity, L.P. (ETE) reported its results for the quarterly period ended November 30, 2006. The company experienced a notable increase in long-term debt, primarily driven by financing activities for significant acquisitions, including a substantial investment in ETP Class G Units and the acquisition of 50% of CCEH. Total revenues decreased compared to the prior year's period, largely influenced by lower commodity prices and trading gains realized in the prior year, particularly in the midstream segment. However, the company saw improvements in its retail propane segment due to the acquisition of Titan and colder weather conditions. ETE's strategic acquisitions and debt financings position it for future growth, while also highlighting the increased financial leverage and operational complexities. Key financial movements include a significant rise in total assets and liabilities, reflecting the aggressive acquisition strategy. While net income saw a decrease compared to the prior year, driven by various factors including increased interest expense and lower revenues, the company's consolidated operating income also declined. Management emphasizes the ongoing integration of acquisitions and expansion plans as key drivers for future performance, alongside strategic partnerships and continued investment in infrastructure.

Key Highlights

  • 1Total assets increased significantly to $7.37 billion as of November 30, 2006, from $5.92 billion as of August 31, 2006, driven by acquisitions.
  • 2Long-term debt more than doubled to $4.47 billion from $3.21 billion during the same period, reflecting increased borrowings for acquisitions.
  • 3Total revenues for the three months ended November 30, 2006, were $1.39 billion, a decrease from $2.42 billion in the prior year's comparable period, primarily due to lower midstream and transportation revenues.
  • 4Net income decreased to $31.04 million for the three months ended November 30, 2006, from $39.60 million in the prior year's period.
  • 5The company completed significant acquisitions, including a 50% interest in CCEH (which owns Transwestern Pipeline) and the acquisition of Titan Energy Partners, impacting asset and liability balances.
  • 6Cash flow from operating activities turned positive, providing $85.94 million compared to a use of $35.13 million in the prior year, indicating improved operational cash generation.
  • 7The company announced a 50/50 joint development of the Midcontinent Express Pipeline (MEP) with Kinder Morgan Energy Partners, L.P., a major infrastructure project.

Frequently Asked Questions

The decrease in total revenues from $2.42 billion in the prior year period to $1.39 billion in the current period was primarily driven by a significant decline in midstream and transportation and storage revenues. This was influenced by lower commodity prices and trading gains that were realized in the prior year, particularly due to market volatility following hurricanes.

The company financed its recent acquisitions through a combination of debt and equity. Notably, long-term debt increased significantly, with proceeds from a $1.3 billion Senior Secured Term Loan Series B Facility used to finance the acquisition of ETP Class G Units and refinance assumed debt. Equity was also utilized, including the issuance of 83,148,900 Class C Units and proceeds from a private placement of Common Units.

The acquisition of Transwestern Pipeline, completed on December 1, 2006, marks a significant expansion into interstate transportation. Its results will be consolidated starting in December 2006 as a new operating segment. The acquisition involved assuming approximately $520 million of Transwestern's long-term indebtedness and was financed partly by ETP issuing Class G Units to ETE. This integration is expected to be immediately accretive to ETE's Common Unitholders.

Net income decreased to $31.04 million for the three months ended November 30, 2006, from $39.60 million in the same period last year. This reduction was influenced by factors such as lower revenues, increased interest expense due to higher debt levels, and a decrease in consolidated operating income. However, operating income in the retail propane segment showed an increase.