10-QPeriod: Q1 FY2007

Energy Transfer LP Quarterly Report for Q1 Ended Feb 28, 2007

Filed April 11, 2007For Securities:ETET-PI

Summary

Energy Transfer Equity, L.P. (ETE) reported a significant increase in total assets to $7.79 billion by February 28, 2007, up from $5.92 billion at August 31, 2006. This growth is largely attributable to strategic acquisitions, most notably the acquisition of Transwestern Pipeline Company, LLC for approximately $1.54 billion and substantial investments in ETP units. The company's revenue for the six months ended February 28, 2007, was $3.45 billion, a decrease from $4.87 billion in the prior year period, primarily driven by lower natural gas prices and market conditions affecting its midstream and transportation segments. However, the company's net income saw a substantial increase, reaching $178.4 million for the six-month period, compared to $64.0 million in the prior year, driven by improved performance in propane operations and the impact of recent acquisitions. ETE's balance sheet reflects a substantial increase in long-term debt, rising to $4.91 billion from $3.21 billion, largely to finance these strategic growth initiatives. Despite the increased leverage, the company has maintained compliance with its debt covenants.

Key Highlights

  • 1Total assets grew to $7.79 billion by February 28, 2007, an increase of nearly $1.87 billion from August 31, 2006, primarily due to acquisitions.
  • 2Net income significantly improved, reaching $178.4 million for the six months ended February 28, 2007, a substantial increase from $64.0 million in the same period of the prior year.
  • 3Long-term debt increased to $4.91 billion from $3.21 billion, reflecting financing for significant acquisitions, particularly Transwestern.
  • 4The company completed the acquisition of Transwestern Pipeline Company for approximately $1.54 billion, expanding its interstate transportation segment.
  • 5Propane operations showed strong performance, with retail propane revenues increasing by 59% for the six months ended February 28, 2007, compared to the prior year.
  • 6Operating income for the midstream and transportation segments saw a decline in gross margin, primarily due to lower natural gas prices and market conditions.
  • 7The company actively managed its capital structure, issuing both debt and equity to fund acquisitions and operations.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary driver of asset growth was the company's aggressive acquisition strategy, most notably the acquisition of Transwestern Pipeline Company for approximately $1.54 billion and increased investments in Energy Transfer Partners, L.P. (ETP). These strategic moves significantly expanded the company's infrastructure and market reach.

Energy Transfer Equity showed a significant improvement in net income, nearly tripling to $178.4 million for the six months ended February 28, 2007, from $64.0 million in the prior year. This was driven by strong performance in the propane segment and the inclusion of new acquisitions. However, consolidated revenues decreased due to lower natural gas prices affecting the midstream and transportation segments.

The company's long-term debt increased substantially to $4.91 billion, mainly due to the financing of its acquisitions. Energy Transfer Equity has stated it was in compliance with all debt covenants and believes its cash flow from operations is sufficient to meet its short-term needs. The company also has various revolving credit facilities and term loans to manage its liquidity.

The acquisition of Transwestern added a new 'Interstate Transportation' segment to the company's reporting structure. This significantly expanded its footprint in natural gas transportation, with Transwestern operating approximately 2,400 miles of interstate pipelines.