uv1za
File No. 70-10294
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM U-1/A
AMENDMENT NO. 1
TO THE
APPLICATION-DECLARATION
UNDER
THE PUBLIC UTILITY HOLDING COMPANY ACT OF 1935
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Exelon Corporation
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Public Service |
(and the Subsidiaries listed on the
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Enterprise Group Incorporated |
Signature Page hereto)
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(on behalf of the Subsidiaries listed |
10 South Dearborn Street
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on the Signature Page hereto) |
37th Floor
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80 Park Plaza |
Chicago, IL 60603
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Newark, New Jersey 07102 |
(Name of companies filing this statement and address of principal executive office)
Exelon Corporation
(Name of top registered holding company)
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Randall E. Mehrberg
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R. Edwin Selover |
Executive Vice President and
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Senior Vice President and General |
General Counsel
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General Counsel |
Exelon Corporation
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Public Service Enterprise |
10 South Dearborn Street
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Group Incorporated |
37th Floor
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80 Park Plaza |
Chicago, IL 60603
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Newark, New Jersey 07102 |
(Name and address of agent for service)
The Commission is requested to send copies of all notices, orders and communications in
connection with this Application-Declaration to:
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Scott N. Peters
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Tamara L. Linde |
Constance W. Reinhard
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Jason A. Lewis |
Exelon Corporation
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PSEG Services Corporation |
10 South Dearborn Street, 35 th Floor
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80 Park Plaza |
Chicago, Illinois 60603
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Newark, New Jersey 07101 |
312-394-3604
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973-430-8058 |
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Joanne C. Rutkowski
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Timothy M. Toy |
Baker Botts L.L.P.
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Bracewell & Giuliani LLP |
1299 Pennsylvania Ave., NW
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1540 Broadway |
Washington, DC 20004
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New York, NY 10036 |
202-639-7785
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212-507-6118 |
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William J. Harmon |
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Jones Day |
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77 West Wacker, Suite 3500 |
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Chicago, Illinois 60601 |
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312-782-3939 |
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
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ii
Applicants hereby amend and restate their application/declaration (Application) as follows:
On July 1, 2005, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) issued its Order
Authorizing Merger under Section 203 of the Federal Power Act, 112 FERC ¶ 61, 011 (the FERC
Merger Order), in Docket ECO5-43-000. 1 Among other things, the
authorizations granted in the FERC Merger Order included FERC acceptance of a mitigation plan (the
Mitigation Plan) involving very substantial divestiture of generation encompassing 6,600 MW of
capacity.
On Monday, August 8, 2005, the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (H.R. 6, 109th Cong.) was signed by the
President and became law, Pub.L. 109-58. Title XII of the Energy Policy Act is the Electricity
Modernization Act of 2005 (the Modernization Act). Subtitle F of the Modernization Act, the
Public Utility Holding Company Act of 2005 (PUHCA 2005) repeals the Public Utility Holding
Company Act of 1935 (the Act), effective six months after the date of enactment (the Effective
Date). As explained more fully herein, Applicants are asking the Commission to issue an order
granting the requested authority on or before December 15, 2005. Applicants remain hopeful that
they will be able reach settlements in their various regulatory proceedings so as to permit a
closing by year-end and enable investors and consumers to realize the benefits associated with the
proposed transaction.
Even if Applicants are unable to close the transaction before the Effective Date, an order
approving Applicants plan pursuant to Section 11(e) of the Act is nonetheless critical to
establish a basis for relief under Section 1081 of the Internal Revenue Code (the Code) in
connection with the Generation Divestiture described herein. See section 1271(c) of the Energy
Policy Act of 2005, which expressly provides that: Tax treatment under section 1081 of the [Code]
as a result of transactions ordered in compliance with the [Act] shall not be affected in any
manner due to the repeal of that Act and the enactment of the Public Utility Holding Company Act of
2005. 2
Item 1. Description of Proposed Transaction
A. Introduction.
Applicants are seeking approval pursuant to Sections 6(a), 7, 8, 9, 10, 11(b)(1), 11(e), 12,
13, 32 and 33 of the Act and the rules thereunder to engage in various transactions related to the
merger of Exelon
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On August 29, 2005, the FERC issued its
Order Granting Rehearing For Further Consideration in respect of the FERC
Merger Order. The rehearing remains pending. |
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Consistent with the precedent, the Commission
could issue its order subject to and expressly conditioned upon receipt of all
necessary state approvals. Section 10(f) of the Act states that the Commission
shall not approve a section 10 application unless it appears to the
satisfaction of the Commission that such State laws as may apply in respect of
such application have been complied with, except where the Commission finds
that compliance with such State laws would be detrimental to the carrying out
of the provisions of section 11. Pursuant to Rule 24(c)(2), when an issue
under state law is raised, the Commission may approve the subject transaction
under sections 10 and 11 of the Act, subject to compliance with state law.
See, e.g., Central and Southwest Corp., Holding Company Act Rel. No. 22635
(September 16, 1982) (If an issue under State law is raised, we may approve
the transaction under section 10, subject to compliance with state law. This
is the effect of rule 24(c)(2) promulgated under the Act). Accord Entergy
Corporation, Holding Co. Act Release No. 25952 (Dec. 17, 1993) (Commission
approval conditioned upon issuance of final state order). The Commission can,
therefore, issue the requested order on the Application subject to the terms
and conditions prescribed in Rule 24 under the Act, specifically those under
Rule 24(c)(2) (Every order ... shall, unless otherwise expressly ordered, be
subject to the following conditions: . . . (2) . . . That if the transaction
is proposed to be carried out in whole or in part pursuant to the express
authorization of any State commission, such transaction shall be carried out in
accordance with such authorization, and if the same be modified, revoked or
otherwise terminated, the effectiveness of the declaration or order granting
the application shall be, without further order or the taking of any action by
the Commission, revoked and terminated.) |
1
Corporation (Exelon) and Public Service Enterprise Group Incorporated (PSEG), as described
more fully herein.3
On December 20, 2004, Exelon and PSEG, an electric and gas utility holding company that claims
exemption from registration pursuant to Rule 2 under Section 3(a)(1) of the Act, entered into an
Agreement and Plan of Merger (the Merger Agreement).4 Pursuant to the terms of the
Merger Agreement, PSEG will merge into Exelon (the Merger), thereby ending the separate corporate
existence of PSEG. Each PSEG shareholder will be entitled to receive 1.225 shares of Exelon common
stock for each PSEG share held and cash in lieu of any fraction of an Exelon share that a PSEG
shareholder would have otherwise been entitled to receive. Exelon common stock will be unaffected
by the Merger, with each issued and outstanding share remaining outstanding following the Merger as
a share in the surviving company. Upon completion of the Merger, Exelon will change its name to
Exelon Electric & Gas Corporation.5
As the surviving company in the Merger, Exelon will remain the ultimate corporate parent of
PECO Energy Company (PECO) and Commonwealth Edison Company (ComEd) and the other Exelon
subsidiaries and become the ultimate corporate parent of Public Service Electric and Gas Company
(PSE&G), a public utility company under the Act, and the other PSEG subsidiaries.
Exelon will continue to be a registered public utility holding company under the Act until the
Effective Date, and ComEd, PECO and PSE&G will continue to be operating franchised utility
companies. Exelon will remain headquartered in Chicago but will also have energy trading and
nuclear headquarters in southeastern Pennsylvania and generation headquarters in Newark, New
Jersey. PSE&G will remain headquartered in Newark. PECO will remain headquartered in Philadelphia
and ComEd will remain headquartered in Chicago.
The Merger is subject to a number of usual and customary conditions precedent, including
receipt by the parties of required state and federal regulatory approvals and filing of pre-merger
notification statements under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as amended
(HSR Act), and the expiration or termination of the statutory waiting period thereunder. (See
Item 4 Regulatory Approvals.) The boards of directors of Exelon and PSEG have approved the
proposed Merger, and the shareholders of Exelon have approved the issuance of shares of common
stock by Exelon required by the Merger Agreement and the shareholders of PSEG have approved the
Merger.
In addition to the changes resulting from the Merger Agreement, the Applicants intend to
revise their corporate structure (the Exelon Generation Restructuring). Although their plans are
not yet completely finalized, the Applicants currently propose to implement the following changes,
subject to approval, as required, by the Securities and Exchange Commission (the Commission).
After obtaining necessary approvals and third party consents, PSEG Power LLC (PSEG Power) and its
direct subsidiaries PSEG Nuclear LLC (PSEG Nuclear), PSEG Fossil LLC (PSEG Fossil) and PSEG
Energy Resources & Trade LLC (PSEG ER&T) will all cease to exist as separate entities and will
become part of Exelon Generation Company, LLC (Exelon Generation). The business functions of
each of these former PSEG entities will become a part of the respective Exelon Generation business
unit. It is anticipated that the subsidiaries owned by these PSEG entities will be retained as
direct subsidiaries of Exelon Generation.
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The Applicants are Exelon and its
Subsidiaries listed on the Signature Page hereto, and PSEG and its Subsidiaries
listed on the Signature Page hereto, and such other direct and indirect
subsidiary companies that Exelon may hereinafter form or acquire in accordance
with a Commission order or otherwise in accordance with the Act or a rule
promulgated thereunder. |
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A copy of the Merger Agreement was filed with
the Commission by Exelon with a Current Report on Form 8-K on December 21,
2004. The Merger Agreement is incorporated herein by reference. The
description of the Merger Agreement herein is qualified in its entirety by
reference to the full text of the Merger Agreement. |
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As appropriate in the context, the term
Exelon refers variously to Exelon Corporation pre-Merger and to Exelon
Electric & Gas Corporation post-Merger. |
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Also in connection with the Merger, PSE&G will become a direct subsidiary of Exelon Energy
Delivery Company, LLC (Delivery). 6 The current subsidiaries of PSE&G will
remain intact. PSEG Energy Holdings L.L.C. (PSEG Holdings) will become a subsidiary of Exelon, as
the successor to PSEG. The current subsidiaries of PSEG Holdings will remain intact. PSEG
Services Corporation (PSEG Services) will sell all of its assets to Exelon Business Services
Company (Exelon BSC), change its name, and remain as a non-energy subsidiary. Exelon BSC will be
the sole service company of Exelon.
A summary diagram depicting Exelons proposed post-Merger corporate structure is filed
herewith as Exhibit G-1. Diagrams depicting the existing corporate structure of the Exelon system
as well as the PSEG system are filed herewith as Exhibits G-2 and G-3, respectively.
Applicants Mitigation Plan was approved in the FERC Merger Order based on, among other
things, a proposed Mitigation Plan to mitigate any generation market concentration concerns
resulting from the Merger. One of the most significant aspect of the Mitigation Plan is the divestiture by
sale of 4000 MW of generation capacity. 7 The sale will occur within twelve
(12) months following close of the Merger. Approval of the Commission is requested for the
disposition of this generating capacity because, as a result of the Exelon Generation
Restructuring, the subject generation capacity would be owned by Exelon Generation, a public
utility company under the Act. The disposition of generation capacity owned by Exelon Generation,
as finally approved by FERC pursuant to post-Merger compliance filings required to be made by
Exelon under the FERC Merger Order (the Post-Merger FERC Compliance Filings), is referred to as
the Generation Divestiture.
In connection with consummation of the Generation Divestiture, subsequent to the Exelon
Generation Restructuring, the Applicants will make further revisions to their corporate structure
(the Divestiture Generation Restructurings) in respect of the particular electric generating
units, or interests therein, being sold. The Post-Merger FERC Compliance Filings will address the
particular facts of the Divestiture Generating Restructurings. The Divestiture Generation
Restructurings are described below at Item 1.H.4 below. The Exelon Generation Restructuring, the
Divestiture Generation Restructuring and the Generation Divestiture are collectively called the
Generation Transactions.
In addition to authorization of the Merger, the Exelon Generation Restructuring, the
Divestiture Generation Restructuring, and the Generation Divestiture, Applicants are requesting
certain related approvals, including:
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Authorizations related to service company and other affiliate transactions. |
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Issuance by Exelon of common stock in connection with the Merger and employee
and director compensation plans as described below. |
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Authorization to the extent required of the consolidation (or replacement in
lieu of consolidation) of existing indebtedness and obligations of PSEG and its
subsidiaries as obligations of Exelon or its subsidiaries as a result of the Merger. |
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Necessary modifications to Exelons existing omnibus financing authority
granted by order of April 1, 2004 in Holding Company Act Release No. 27830 (the 2004
Financing Order). |
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This will be accomplished through a
contribution of the common stock of PSE&G held by Exelon contemporaneously with
the Merger to Delivery or other appropriate corporate transaction. |
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As explained more fully herein, on July 1,
2005, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) accepted a Mitigation
Plan including the Generation Divestiture. |
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Approval of a Section 11(e) plan in respect of the Generation Transactions
and related approvals as necessary or appropriate in respect of the tax treatment
afforded by Section 1081 of the Code. |
Applicants request that the Commission issue a final order granting the requested authority
without an evidentiary hearing, as expeditiously as feasible, but no later than December 15, 2005.
B. Description of Exelon and Its Subsidiaries
1. Exelon, Generally
Exelon was incorporated in Pennsylvania in February 1999. On October 20, 2000, Exelon became
the ultimate parent corporation for PECO and ComEd, and registered pursuant to Section 5 of the
Act.
Exelon, through its subsidiaries, operates in two business segments Delivery and Generation
as described below. In addition to Exelons two business segments, Exelon BSC, a subsidiary of
Exelon, provides Exelon and its subsidiaries with financial, human resources, legal, information
technology, supply management and corporate governance services, as well as direction and
management of shared functions for Delivery. Exelon sold or wound down substantially all components
of Exelon Enterprises Company, LLC (Enterprises) in 2004 and 2003. As a result, as of January 1,
2005, Enterprises is no longer reported as a segment.
Delivery. Exelons energy delivery business consists of the purchase and sale of
electricity and distribution and transmission services by ComEd in northern Illinois and by PECO in
southeastern Pennsylvania and the purchase and sale of natural gas and distribution services by
PECO in the Pennsylvania counties surrounding the City of Philadelphia.
Generation. Exelons generation business consists of the owned and contracted for
electric generating facilities and energy marketing operations of Exelon Generation, a 49.5%
interest in two power stations in Mexico, and the competitive retail sales business of Exelon
Energy Company.
2. The Exelon Utility Subsidiaries
Exelon indirectly owns all of the issued and outstanding membership interests of Exelon
Generation, all the issued and outstanding common stock of PECO and substantially all of the issued
and outstanding common stock of ComEd, 8 and ComEd owns all the issued and
outstanding common stock of Commonwealth Edison Company of Indiana, Inc. (the Indiana Company)
(together, the Exelon Utility Subsidiaries).
PECO is engaged principally in the purchase, transmission, distribution and sale of
electricity to residential, commercial and industrial customers in southeastern Pennsylvania and in
the purchase, distribution and sale of natural gas to residential, commercial and industrial
customers in the Pennsylvania counties surrounding the City of Philadelphia. PECO is subject to
extensive regulation by the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PAPUC) as to electric and gas
rates, the issuances of certain securities and certain other aspects of PECOs operations. PECO is
also subject to regulation by FERC as to transmission rates, gas pipelines and certain other
aspects of its business.
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In connection with the conversion of warrants
and convertible preferred stock that were outstanding prior to the 2000 merger
of Unicom Corporation with PECO Energy Corp., a small number of shares of
common stock of ComEd (about 0.1% of the total outstanding) are not owned by
Exelon but are held by third parties. See Exelon Corporation, Holding Co. Act
Release No. 27256, note 4 (Oct. 19, 2000) (the 2000 Merger Order). |
4
PECOs retail service territory covers approximately 2,100 square miles in southeastern
Pennsylvania. PECO provides electric delivery service in an area of approximately 2,000 square
miles, with a population of approximately 3.8 million, including 1.5 million in the City of
Philadelphia. Natural gas service is supplied in an approximately 1,900 square mile area in
southeastern Pennsylvania adjacent to Philadelphia, with a population of approximately 2.3 million.
PECO delivers electricity to approximately 1.5 million customers and natural gas to approximately
460,000 customers.
ComEd is engaged principally in the purchase, transmission, distribution and sale of
electricity to a diverse base of residential, commercial, industrial and wholesale customers in
northern Illinois. ComEd is subject to extensive regulation by the Illinois Commerce Commission
(ICC) as to rates, the issuance of certain securities, and certain other aspects of ComEds
operations. ComEd is also subject to regulation by the FERC as to transmission rates and certain
other aspects of its business.
ComEds retail service territory has an area of approximately 11,300 square miles and an
estimated population of eight million. The service territory includes the City of Chicago, an area
of about 225 square miles with an estimated population of three million. ComEd has approximately
3.7 million customers.
Electric utility restructuring legislation was adopted in Pennsylvania in December 1996 and in
Illinois in December 1997. Both Illinois and Pennsylvania permit competition by alternative
generation suppliers for retail generation supply while transmission and distribution service
remains fully regulated. Both states, through their regulatory agencies, established a phased
approach for allowing customers to choose an alternative electric generation supplier, required
rate reductions and imposed caps on rates during a transition period, and allowed the collection of
competitive transition charges from customers to recover costs that might not otherwise be
recovered in a competitive market.
Effective as of January 1, 2001, Exelon effected a restructuring that involved the transfer of
the electric generating assets of ComEd and PECO to Exelon Generation, a Pennsylvania limited
liability company and a public utility company engaged in the generation, sale and purchase of
electricity in Pennsylvania, Illinois and elsewhere and also engaged in the trading of other energy
and energy-related commodities and development and ownership of exempt wholesale generators
(EWGs).
PJM Interconnection, L.L.C. (PJM) is the independent system operator and the FERC-approved
Regional Transmission Organization (RTO) for the Mid-Atlantic and a portion of the Midwest. PJM
is the transmission provider under, and the administrator of, the PJM Open Access Transmission
Tariff, operates the PJM Interchange Energy Market and Capacity Credit Markets, and conducts the
day-to-day operations of the bulk power system of the PJM region. ComEds and PECOs transmission
systems are currently under the control of PJM and, by order dated October 28, 2004 (Holding Co.
Act Release No. 27904) (the PJM Order), the Commission found that the electric utility properties
of the Exelon system satisfy the interconnection requirement of Section 2(a)(29)(A) of the Act by
reason of PJMs operational control of the transmission assets of ComEd and PECO.9
Each of ComEd and PECO is a public utility company within the meaning of the Act. ComEd is
also a holding company exempt from registration pursuant to Section 3(a)(1) of the Act, by reason
of its ownership of the Indiana Company, which is a fourth public utility company subsidiary, with
no retail operations. Delivery is an intermediate registered holding company and a first-tier
subsidiary of Exelon. Delivery owns all of the issued and outstanding common stock of PECO and
substantially all of the issued and outstanding common stock of ComEd. See Note 7.
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9 |
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In the 2000 Merger Order approving the
formation of Exelon, the Commission had found that the electric utility
operations of Exelon constituted a single, integrated electric utility system,
and that the gas utility operations of Exelon constituted a single, integrated
gas utility system that was a permissible additional system under the
standards of Section 2(a)(11) of the Act. The findings of the 2000 Merger
Order were based in part on a certain 100 MW firm west-to-east transmission
contract path (the Contract Path). The PJM Order found that PJMs
operational control of the transmission assets of ComEd and PECO obviated the
need for the Contract Path. |
5
Exelon Generation is also an electric utility company within the meaning of the Act. Exelon
Generation is a wholly owned subsidiary of Exelon Ventures Company, LLC (Ventures), which is an
intermediate registered holding company and a first tier subsidiary of Exelon. Ventures and
Delivery are referred to herein as the Other Registered Holding Companies. None of the Other
Registered Holding Companies has securities outstanding in the hands of the public.
3. Direct Non-Utility Subsidiaries of Exelon
Exelon has direct wholly owned non-utility subsidiaries (in addition to its direct, wholly
owned registered holding company subsidiaries, Ventures and Delivery), as follows:
Exelon BSC, a service company, provides administrative, management and technical services to
Exelon and its associate companies;
Exelon Investment Holdings, LLC, an Illinois limited liability company, is a holding company
for tax-advantaged housing transactions;
UII, LLC, an Illinois limited liability company, is engaged in a like-kind exchange
transaction pursuant to which a portion of the proceeds from the sale of ComEds fossil generating
stations was invested in passive generating station leases with entities unrelated to Exelon. The
generating stations were leased back to such entities as part of the transaction.10
Exelon has the following additional direct subsidiaries: Unicom Assurance Company, Ltd., an
inactive captive insurance company, Exelon Capital Trust I, an inactive finance company, Exelon
Capital Trust II, an inactive finance company and Exelon Capital Trust III, an inactive finance
company.
4. Capitalization of Exelon
The total authorized shares of capital stock of Exelon consist of (i) 1,200,000,000 shares of
common stock, no par value and (ii) 100,000,000 shares of preferred stock, no par
value. 11 At the close of business on December 31, 2004, 664,187,996 shares of
Exelon common stock were outstanding, and no shares of Exelon preferred stock were issued and
outstanding. In addition, at that date (i) 2,499,865 shares of common stock were held by Exelon in
its treasury, (ii) 25,205,285 shares of common stock were reserved for issuance pursuant to
outstanding options to purchase common stock granted under Exelons Long-Term Incentive Plan,
Exelons Amended and Restated Long-Term Incentive Plan, as amended, and Exelons 1998 Stock Option
Plan (together with Exelons Directors Stock Unit Plan, the Exelon Stock Incentive Plans), (iii)
14,777,078 shares of common stock were reserved for the grant of additional awards under the Exelon
Stock Incentive Plans, (iv) 7,000,000 shares of common stock were reserved for issuance pursuant to
the Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan, (v) 624,495 shares of common stock were reserved
for issuance pursuant to outstanding performance shares, (vi) 216,000 shares of common stock were
reserved for issuance pursuant to outstanding units under Exelons Directors Stock Unit Plan,
(vii) 5,357,745 shares of common stock were reserved for issuance under Exelons Employee Stock
Purchase Plan, (viii) 1,060,053 shares of common stock were reserved for issuance pursuant to
outstanding restricted shares (shares of common stock subject to forfeiture) and (ix) 1,336,516
shares of common stock were reserved for issuance pursuant to outstanding deferred shares (shares
of common stock the issuance of which has been deferred pursuant to Exelons Deferred Compensation
Plan).
|
|
|
10 |
|
Unicom Investment, Inc., an Illinois
corporation, was reorganized as an Illinois limited liability company, UII, LLC
on November 10, 2004. |
|
11 |
|
By order dated July 12, 2005 (HCAR No.
28000) the Commission authorized Exelon to amend its Amended and Restated
Articles of Incorporation to increase its authorized common stock to
2,000,000,000 shares. |
6
As of December 31, 2004, Exelons capitalization on a consolidated basis was as follows:
EXELON CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED CAPITAL STRUCTURE
(Dollars in Millions)
As of December 31, 2004
Consolidated Capitalization
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Capital Structure |
|
|
|
Amount |
|
|
Percentage |
|
Common Equity (includes Retained
Earnings of $3,353) |
|
$ |
9,423 |
|
|
|
40.79 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Minority Interest |
|
|
42 |
|
|
|
0.18 |
% |
Preferred and Preference Stock |
|
|
632 |
|
|
|
2.74 |
% |
Securitization Obligations |
|
|
4,797 |
|
|
|
20.76 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Long-Term Debt |
|
|
7,292 |
|
|
|
31.56 |
% |
Current Maturities of Long-Term
Debt |
|
|
427 |
|
|
|
1.85 |
% |
|
|
|
Total Long-Term Debt |
|
|
7,719 |
|
|
|
33.41 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Short-Term Debt |
|
|
490 |
|
|
|
2.12 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Capital Structure |
|
$ |
23,103 |
|
|
|
100.00 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Additional information regarding Exelon and its subsidiary companies is set forth in the
following documents, each of which has been previously filed with the Commission and is
incorporated herein by reference:
(i) Annual Report on Form 10-K of Exelon (Commission File No. 1-16169), ComEd (Commission File No.
1-1839), PECO (Commission File No. 1-1401) and Exelon Generation (Commission File Number No.
333-85496) for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2004, filed with the Commission on February 23,
2005;
(ii) Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of Exelon (Commission File No. 1-16169), ComEd (Commission File
No. 1-1839), PECO (Commission File No. 1-1401) and Exelon Generation (Commission File Number No.
333-85496) for the quarters ending March 31, 2005 and June 30, 2005;
(iii)The following Current Reports on Form 8-K of Exelon (Commission File No. 1-16169):
|
|
|
|
|
Description |
|
Filing Date |
|
Current report, item 8.01 |
|
|
9/14/05 |
|
Current report, item 7.01 |
|
|
9/07/05 |
|
Current report, item 8.01 |
|
|
9/06/05 |
|
Current report, item 8.01 |
|
|
8/31/05 |
|
Current report, item 8.01 |
|
|
8/31/05 |
|
Current report, item 8.01 |
|
|
8/15/05 |
|
Current report, item 7.01 and 9.01 |
|
|
8/05/05 |
|
Current report, item 2.02, 7.01, and 9.01 |
|
|
7/21/05 |
|
Current report, item 8.01 and 9.01 |
|
|
7/12/05 |
|
7
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Current report, item 8.01 and 9.01 |
|
|
6/30/05 |
|
[Amend] Current report, item 5.02 |
|
|
6/30/05 |
|
Current report, item 7.01 |
|
|
6/28/05 |
|
Current report, item 2.03 and 9.01 |
|
|
6/10/05 |
|
Current report, item 1.01 and 9.01 |
|
|
6/07/05 |
|
Current report, item 7.01 |
|
|
5/18/05 |
|
Current report, item 8.01 and 9.01 |
|
|
5/13/05 |
|
Current report, item 8.01 and 9.01 |
|
|
5/10/05 |
|
Current report, item 7.01 |
|
|
5/09/05 |
|
Current report, item 5.02 |
|
|
4/27/05 |
|
Current report, item 2.02, 7.01, and 9.01 |
|
|
4/25/05 |
|
Current report, item 7.01 |
|
|
4/14/05 |
|
Current report, item 8.01 |
|
|
4/06/05 |
|
Current report, item 1.01 and 2.03 |
|
|
4/05/05 |
|
Current report, item 7.01 |
|
|
3/31/05 |
|
Current report, item 2.03 |
|
|
3/30/05 |
|
Current report, item 7.01 |
|
|
3/29/05 |
|
Current report, items 1.01 and 2.03 |
|
|
3/08/05 |
|
Current report, item 8.01 |
|
|
3/07/05 |
|
Current report, item 5.02 |
|
|
2/25/05 |
|
(iv) Annual Report on Form U5S for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2004, filed with the
Commission on April 29, 2005; and
(v) Definitive joint proxy statement/prospectus, filed with the Commission pursuant to Rule
424(b)(3) on June 3, 2005 (File No. 333-122074).
C. Description of PSEG and Its Subsidiaries.
1. PSEG, Generally.
PSEG was incorporated under the laws of the State of New Jersey in 1985 and is an exempt
public utility holding company. PSEG, through its subsidiaries, operates in three business
segments Delivery, Generation and Enterprises, as described below. In addition to PSEGs three
business segments, PSEG Services, a subsidiary of PSEG, provides PSEG and its subsidiaries with
financial, human resources, legal, information technology, supply management and corporate
governance services.
Delivery PSEGs domestic energy delivery business consists of the transmission and
distribution of electric energy and gas in New Jersey through PSE&G.
Generation PSEGs generation businesses consist of the owned and contracted for
electric generation facilities and energy marketing operations of the PSEG Power subsidiaries and
the PSEG Global L.L.C. (PSEG Global) subsidiaries. PSEG Power has three principal direct wholly
owned subsidiaries: PSEG Nuclear, PSEG Fossil and PSEG ER&T. The PSEG Power generation portfolio
consists of approximately 14,607 MW of generation in the Northeast and Midwest. PSEG Global has
equity ownership interests in approximately 2,404 MW of generation in North America. All the
generation assets in the PSEG system are held by PSEG subsidiaries
with EWG or foreign utility company (FUCO) status under
the Act or qualifying facility (QF) status under the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of
1978, as amended (PURPA).
Enterprises PSEGs enterprise businesses consist primarily of (1) investments in
energy-related financial transactions, leveraged leases, operating leases, leveraged buyout funds,
marketable securities and a demand-side management business and (2) investments in international
generation and delivery businesses qualified as EWGs and foreign utility companies through PSEG
Resources L.L.C. (PSEG Resources) and through PSEG Global.
8
2. The PSEG Utility Subsidiary.
PSE&G is a public utility company within the meaning of the Act and is the only utility
subsidiary of PSEG. PSEG directly owns all of the issued and outstanding common stock of PSE&G.
PSE&G is an electric and gas utility company engaged principally in the transmission and
distribution of electric energy and gas in New Jersey. PSE&G is subject to extensive regulation by
the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU) as to electric and gas rates, the issuance of
securities and certain other aspects of PSE&Gs operations. PSE&G is also subject to regulation by
the FERC as to electric transmission rates and certain other aspects of its business.
PSE&Gs retail service territory covers a corridor of approximately 2,600 square miles running
diagonally across New Jersey from Bergen County in the northeast to an area below the city of
Camden in the southwest with a population of approximately 5.5 million. PSE&G provides service to
approximately 2.0 million electric customers and approximately 1.6 million gas customers.
PSE&G does not own or operate any electric generation facilities. PSE&G, pursuant to an order
of the NJBPU issued under the provisions of the New Jersey Electric Discount and Energy Competition
Act (EDECA), transferred all of its electric generation facilities, plant, equipment and
wholesale power trading contracts to its affiliate PSEG ER&T in August 2000. Also, pursuant to an
NJBPU order, PSE&G transferred its gas supply business, including its inventories and supply
contracts, to PSEG ER&T in May 2002. PSE&G continues to own and operate its electric transmission
and electric and gas distribution business. PSE&G has transferred functional control over its
electric transmission facilities to PJM.
All electric and gas customers in New Jersey have the ability to choose an electric energy
and/or gas supplier. For those retail electric customers located in New Jersey who do not choose a
competitive electric supplier, New Jerseys Electric Distribution Companies (EDCs), including
PSE&G, provide basic generation service (BGS) or provider of last resort service (POLR). The
EDCs satisfy their BGS obligations through a competitive state-wide annual auction. PSE&Gs
affiliate PSEG ER&T, has historically been a successful participant in these auctions and serves
several EDCs including PSE&G.
For those retail gas customers located in New Jersey who do not choose a competitive natural
gas supplier, New Jerseys gas distribution companies, including PSE&G, provide basic gas supply
service (BGSS) or POLR. PSE&G has entered into a full requirements contract through 2007 with
PSEG ER&T to meet the supply requirements of PSE&Gs gas customers. 12 PSEG
ER&T charges PSE&G for the gas commodity costs, which PSE&G recovers from its customers. Any
difference between rates charged by PSEG ER&T under the BGSS contract and rates charged to PSE&Gs
customers are deferred and collected or refunded through future adjustments in retail rates.
PSE&Gs natural gas facilities consist entirely of local gas distribution facilities in the
State of New Jersey and neither PSE&G nor any other PSEG company owns any interstate natural gas
facilities subject to the Natural Gas Act.
3. Direct Non-Utility Subsidiaries of PSEG.
PSEG has three direct wholly owned non-utility subsidiaries, PSEG Power, PSEG Holdings and
PSEG Services:
PSEG Power PSEG Power has three principal direct wholly owned subsidiaries: PSEG Nuclear,
which owns and operates nuclear generating stations; PSEG Fossil, which develops, owns and operates
domestic fossil generating stations and other non-nuclear generating stations; and PSEG ER&T, which
|
|
|
12 |
|
The BGSS contract continues year to year
thereafter unless terminated by either party consistent with its terms. |
9
markets the capacity and production of PSEG Fossils and PSEG Nuclears stations, manages the
commodity price risks and market risks related to generation and markets electricity, capacity,
ancillary services and natural gas products on a wholesale basis. PSEG Power also provides
specialized maintenance, repair and plant engineering services on energy-related electro-mechanical
equipment to its affiliates.
PSEG Nuclear is an EWG and has an ownership interest in five nuclear generating units and
operates three of them: the Salem Nuclear Generating Station, Units 1 and 2, located in New Jersey,
each owned 57.41% by PSEG Nuclear and 42.59% by Exelon Generation; and the Hope Creek Nuclear
Generating Station, located in New Jersey, which is 100% owned by PSEG Nuclear. Exelon Generation
operates the Peach Bottom Atomic Power Station Units 2 and 3, located in Pennsylvania, each of
which is 50% owned by PSEG Nuclear and 50% by Exelon Generation. PSEG Nuclear is subject to
regulation by the FERC as to its wholesale electric sales and certain other aspects of its
business. All of PSEG Nuclears generation assets are located in PJM. As explained below, it is
contemplated that PSEG Nuclear will be merged into Exelon Generation.
PSEG Fossil is an EWG and has direct interests in twelve generating stations in New Jersey and two
in Pennsylvania. PSEG Fossil, together with Jersey Central Power and Light Company, is a
co-licensee of the Yards Creek Pumped Storage Project, which has a FERC hydroelectric license
(Project 2309). All of PSEG Fossils directly owned generating assets are located in PJM. PSEG
Fossil has certain subsidiaries, that are also EWGs, that own generating stations in Connecticut,
New York, Indiana and Ohio. PSEG Fossil is subject to regulation by the FERC as to its wholesale
electric sales and certain other aspects of its business. As explained below, it is contemplated
that PSEG Fossil will be merged into Exelon Generation and the subsidiaries owned by PSEG Fossil
will be retained as direct subsidiaries of Exelon Generation.
PSEG ER&T conducts energy trading operations and does not own any utility assets. PSEG ER&T
is subject to regulation by the FERC as to its wholesale electric sales and certain other aspects
of its business. As explained below, it is contemplated that PSEG ER&T will be merged into Exelon
Generation.
PSEG Holdings PSEG Holdings has two principal subsidiaries: PSEG Resources, which invests
primarily in energy-related, financial transactions, and PSEG Global, which invests in
international generation and delivery businesses qualified as EWGs and FUCOs and domestic
generation qualified as EWGs and QFs. 13
PSEG Resources has investments in energy-related financial transactions and assets
including leveraged leases, operating leases, leveraged buyout funds, limited partnerships and
marketable securities. PSEG Resources also engages in demand side management services in New
Jersey through its subsidiaries.
PSEG Global, through various subsidiaries qualified as FUCOs and EWGs, has investments in
electric generation, transmission and distribution facilities in selected international markets and
through various subsidiaries qualified as EWGS and QFs, has investments in electric generation in
selected domestic markets. PSEG Globals domestic generation assets are located in California,
Pennsylvania, Texas, New Hampshire and Hawaii.
PSEG Services is a non-utility service company. As explained below, it is contemplated that
PSEG Services will sell all of its assets to Exelon BSC, change its name, and remain as a
subsidiary.
|
|
|
13 |
|
Neither PSEG Holdings nor any of its
subsidiaries is a public utility company for purposes of the 1935 Act. PSEG
Holdings and its subsidiaries are more fully described in Exhibit G-7. |
10
4. Capitalization of PSEG.
PUBLIC SERVICE ENTERPRISE GROUP INCORPORATED
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED CAPITAL STRUCTURE
(Dollars in Millions)
As of December 31, 2004
Consolidated Capitalization
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Capital Structure |
|
|
|
Amount |
|
|
Percentage |
|
Common Equity (includes Retained
Earnings of $2,425) |
|
$ |
5,739 |
|
|
|
29.03 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Preferred and Preference Stock |
|
|
1,281 |
|
|
|
6.48 |
% |
Securitization Obligations |
|
|
2,085 |
|
|
|
10.55 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Long-Term Debt |
|
|
9,785 |
|
|
|
49.50 |
% |
Current Maturities of Long-Term
Debt |
|
|
240 |
|
|
|
1.21 |
% |
|
|
|
Total Long-Term Debt |
|
|
10,025 |
|
|
|
50.71 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Short-Term Debt |
|
|
638 |
|
|
|
3.23 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Capital Structure |
|
$ |
19,768 |
|
|
|
100.00 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
* * * * *
Additional information regarding PSEG and its subsidiary companies is set forth in the
following documents, each of which has been previously filed with the Commission and is
incorporated herein by reference:
(i) Annual Report on Form 10-K of PSEG (Commission File No. 001-09120), PSE&G (Commission File No.
001-00973), PSEG Power (Commission File No. 001-49614), PSEG Holdings (Commission File No.
000-32503) for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2004, filed with the Commission on March 1, 2005;
(ii) Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q of PSEG (Commission File No. 001-09120), PSE&G (Commission File
No. 001-00973), PSEG Power (Commission File No. 001-49614), PSEG Holdings (Commission File No.
000-32503) for the quarters ended March 31, 2005 and June 30, 2005;
(iii)The following Current Reports on Form 8-K of PSEG (Commission File No. 001-09120):
|
|
|
|
|
Description |
|
Filing Date |
|
Current report, item 8.01 |
|
|
9/14/05 |
|
Current report, item 7.01 |
|
|
9/07/05 |
|
Current report, item 8.01 |
|
|
9/06/05 |
|
Current report, item 8.01 |
|
|
8/31/05 |
|
Current report, item 8.01 |
|
|
8/31/05 |
|
Current report, item 8.01 |
|
|
8/15/05 |
|
Current report, item 7.01 and 9.01 |
|
|
8/05/05 |
|
Current report, item 2.02, 7.01, and 9.01 |
|
|
7/21/05 |
|
Current report, item 8.01 and 9.01 |
|
|
7/12/05 |
|
Current report, item 8.01 and 9.01 |
|
|
6/30/05 |
|
[Amend] Current report, item 5.02 |
|
|
6/30/05 |
|
Current report, item 7.01 |
|
|
6/28/05 |
|
11
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Current report, item 2.03 and 9.01 |
|
|
6/10/05 |
|
Current report, item 1.01 and 9.01 |
|
|
6/07/05 |
|
Current report, item 7.01 |
|
|
5/18/05 |
|
Current report, item 8.01 and 9.01 |
|
|
5/13/05 |
|
Current report, item 8.01 and 9.01 |
|
|
5/10/05 |
|
Current report, item 7.01 |
|
|
5/09/05 |
|
Current report, item 5.02 |
|
|
4/27/05 |
|
Current report, item 2.02, 7.01, and 9.01 |
|
|
4/25/05 |
|
Current report, item 7.01 |
|
|
4/14/05 |
|
Current report, item 8.01 |
|
|
4/06/05 |
|
Current report, item 1.01 and 2.03 |
|
|
4/05/05 |
|
Current report, item 7.01 |
|
|
3/31/05 |
|
Current report, item 2.03 |
|
|
3/30/05 |
|
Current report, item 7.01 |
|
|
3/29/05 |
|
Current report, items 1.01 and 2.03 |
|
|
3/08/05 |
|
Current report, item 7.01 |
|
|
9/07/05 |
|
Current report, item 8.01 |
|
|
9/06/05 |
|
Current report, item 8.01 |
|
|
8/31/05 |
|
Current report, item 8.01 |
|
|
8/31/05 |
|
Current report, item 8.01 |
|
|
8/15/05 |
|
Current report, item 7.01 and 9.01 |
|
|
8/05/05 |
|
Current report, item 2.02, 7.01, and 9.01 |
|
|
7/21/05 |
|
Current report, item 8.01 and 9.01 |
|
|
7/12/05 |
|
Current report, item 8.01 and 9.01 |
|
|
6/30/05 |
|
[Amend] Current report, item 5.02 |
|
|
6/30/05 |
|
Current report, item 7.01 |
|
|
6/28/05 |
|
Current report, item 2.03 and 9.01 |
|
|
6/10/05 |
|
Current report, item 1.01 and 9.01 |
|
|
6/07/05 |
|
Current report, item 7.01 |
|
|
5/18/05 |
|
Current report, item 8.01 and 9.01 |
|
|
5/13/05 |
|
Current report, item 8.01 and 9.01 |
|
|
5/10/05 |
|
Current report, item 7.01 |
|
|
5/09/05 |
|
Current report, item 5.02 |
|
|
4/27/05 |
|
Current report, item 2.02, 7.01, and 9.01 |
|
|
4/25/05 |
|
Current report, item 7.01 |
|
|
4/14/05 |
|
Current report, item 8.01 |
|
|
4/06/05 |
|
Current report, item 1.01 and 2.03 |
|
|
4/05/05 |
|
Current report, item 7.01 |
|
|
3/31/05 |
|
Current report, item 2.03 |
|
|
3/30/05 |
|
Current report, item 7.01 |
|
|
3/29/05 |
|
Current report, items 1.01 and 2.03 |
|
|
3/08/05 |
|
Current report, item 8.01 |
|
|
3/07/05 |
|
Current report, item 5.02 |
|
|
2/25/05 |
|
(iv) Annual Report on Form U-3A-2 of PSEG for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2004, filed with
the Commission on March 1, 2005; and
(v) Definitive joint proxy statement/prospectus, filed with the Commission pursuant to Rule
424(b)(3) on June 3, 2005 (File No. 333-122074).
D. Principal Terms of the Merger Agreement
The Merger Agreement provides for a business combination whereby PSEG will be merged with and
into Exelon, with Exelon surviving. At the effective time of and as a result of the Merger, (i)
each outstanding share of PSEG common stock will be converted into the right to receive 1.225
shares of Exelon
12
common stock (the Exchange Ratio) and (ii) each share of Exelon common stock will remain
outstanding. All outstanding PSEG stock options will be converted into options to purchase the
number of shares of Exelon common stock determined by multiplying (a) the number of shares of PSEG
common stock subject to such stock option immediately prior to the effective time by (b) the
Exchange Ratio, at an exercise price per share of Exelon common stock equal to the exercise price
per share of PSEG common stock under such stock option immediately prior to the effective time
divided by the Exchange Ratio.
Following the effective time of the Merger, the surviving corporation, which will be renamed
Exelon Electric & Gas Corporation, will have an eighteen-member board of directors, which will
include twelve Exelon directors and six new members nominated by PSEG. John W. Rowe, the current
Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Exelon, will become the President and Chief
Executive Officer of the surviving corporation. E. James Ferland, the current Chairman, President
and Chief Executive Officer of PSEG, will become the non-executive Chairman of the Board of the
surviving corporation until his retirement on March 31, 2007, at which time Mr. Rowe will become
Chairman of the surviving corporation.
Exelon and PSEG have made customary representations, warranties and covenants in the Merger
Agreement, including, among others, covenants (i) by PSEG not to (a) solicit proposals relating to
alternative business combination transactions or (b) subject to certain exceptions, enter into
discussions concerning alternative business combination transactions, (ii) by Exelon and PSEG to
cause shareholder meetings to be held to consider approval of the Merger and related transactions,
(iii) subject to PSEGs right to terminate the Merger Agreement to accept a superior proposal (as
described in the Merger Agreement), for the board of directors of PSEG to recommend adoption and
approval by PSEGs shareholders of the Merger Agreement and related transactions and (iv) for the
board of directors of Exelon to recommend approval by Exelons shareholders of the issuance of
shares of Exelon contemplated by the Merger Agreement subject to Exelons board of directors right
to change its recommendation as required by its fiduciary duties.
Consummation of the Merger is subject to various customary conditions, including the requisite
approval by the shareholders of Exelon and PSEG, respectively, no legal impediment to the Merger,
the receipt of required regulatory approvals, the absence of a material adverse effect on Exelon,
PSEG or, prospectively, the surviving corporation and the absence of certain specified burdensome
actions as a condition to the regulatory approvals for the Merger. The Merger Agreement contains
certain termination rights for both Exelon and PSEG, and further provides that, upon termination of
the Merger Agreement, a termination fee may be payable under specified circumstances including (i)
if Exelon enters into a definitive agreement to be acquired, it must pay PSEG a termination fee of
$400 million plus PSEGs transaction expenses up to $40 million, (ii) if Exelons board of
directors changes its recommendation, it must pay PSEGs transactions expenses up to $40 million
and (iii) if PSEGs board of directors changes its recommendation or if PSEG enters into a
definitive agreement for a superior proposal to be acquired it must pay Exelon a termination fee of
$400 million plus Exelons transaction expenses up to $40 million.
E. Accounting Treatment for the Merger
The Merger will be accounted for as a purchase by Exelon under accounting principles generally
accepted in the United States. Under the purchase method of accounting, the assets and liabilities
of PSEG will be recorded, as of completion of the Merger, at their respective fair values and added
to those of Exelon. The reported financial condition and results of operations of Exelon issued
after completion of the Merger will reflect PSEGs balances and results after completion of the
Merger, but will not be restated retroactively to reflect the historical financial position or
results of operations of PSEG. Following completion of the Merger, the earnings of the combined
company will reflect purchase accounting adjustments, including changes to amortization and
depreciation expense for acquired assets.
F. Operation of the Combined System Post-Merger
Following the Merger, ComEd, PECO and PSE&G (the Retail Utility Subsidiaries) will all be
subsidiaries of Delivery and will operate their respective electric distribution systems, and PECO
and
13
PSE&G will operate their respective gas distribution systems. The electric transmission
systems of the Retail Utility Subsidiaries together with the Indiana Company will be interconnected
through and subject to the functional control of a single operator, PJM. The Retail Utility
Subsidiaries, the Indiana Company and Exelon Generation are referred to herein as the Utility
Subsidiaries.
A more detailed description of Exelons plans to integrate PSEGs operations with those of its
existing subsidiaries is set forth in Item 3.B.4.b, below.
G. Exelon Generation Restructuring
After obtaining any appropriate third-party consents, including consents of certain PSEG Power
debt holders to certain amendments of PSEG Power debt agreements, the Applicants will undertake the
Exelon Generation Restructuring such that PSEG Power and its direct subsidiaries PSEG Nuclear, PSEG
Fossil and PSEG ER&T will all cease to exist as separate entities and will become part of Exelon
Generation. The business functions of these former PSEG entities will become a part of their
respective Exelon Generation business unit. The subsidiaries owned by these PSEG entities will be
retained as direct subsidiaries of Exelon Generation, which will continue to be an electric utility
company for purposes of the Act. It is contemplated that the Exelon Generation Restructuring will
take place contemporaneously with the closing of the Merger. See Exhibits G-1, G-2 and G-3 hereto
for diagrams of the pre-Merger and post-Merger corporate structures.
It is anticipated that the current subsidiaries of PSEG Fossil that own and/or operate
electric generation facilities will remain subsidiaries of Exelon Generation as EWGs. The Exelon
Generation Restructuring will not result in any new public utility subsidiary of Exelon
Generation.
Applicants seek such approval as may be required for the Exelon Generation
Restructuring. 14
H. Generation Transactions
1. Generation Divestiture Overview
The proposed Merger will increase the total capacity of generation resources owned or
controlled by Exelon. To ensure that the combined company does not have market power in any
relevant market, Exelon and PSEG have proposed the Mitigation Plan designed to address in full
FERCs requirements for competitive markets. As part of the plan, the companies have proposed the
Generation Divestiture to divest a number of coal, mid-merit, and peaking generating plants.
The Mitigation Plan also provides for the transfer of control of the output of a portion of their
baseload nuclear generating capacity.
The final divestiture proposal made by Applicants and approved by FERC in the FERC Merger
Order will result in Applicants divesting 6,600 MW of capacity. Of this, 4,000 MW will be
physically divested fossil generation. Under the FERC Merger Order, Applicants are required to
make a compliance filing to the FERC within 30 days of the completion of their physical
divestiture, providing an analysis of the Mergers effect on competition in energy and capacity
markets, given actual plants and assets divested and the actual acquirers of the divested assets.
If the analysis shows that the Mergers harm to competition has not been sufficiently mitigated,
Applicants must propose additional mitigation at that time. The
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14 |
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As explained more fully herein, the FERC has
granted the necessary approvals related to the Exelon Generation Restructuring.
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) has determined
that the Industrial Site Recovery Act (ISRA) does not apply to the Merger and
its related corporate reorganizations including the Generation Restructuring.
Filings have also been made with the Connecticut Siting Council (the Siting
Counsel) and the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection (CDEP)
with respect to the implications of the Merger and the Generation Restructuring
to the generating stations located in Connecticut and owned by a subsidiary of
PSEG Fossil. The Siting Counsel has approved the Merger and CDEP approval will
be sought closer to the expected time of the Merger (CDEP approvals are valid
only for ninety days). |
14
divestiture of the 4,000 MW contemplated in the FERC Merger Order plus any subsequent physical
divestiture ordered by FERC as necessary additional mitigation is referred to herein as the
Generation Divestiture.
Rather than divest their nuclear baseload units, the Applicants have proposed, and the FERC
has accepted, a virtual divestiture whereby they will divest, through sales of
long-term firm energy rights, 2,600 MW of nuclear generating capacity in PJM East. Such
virtual divestiture will take the form of FERC jurisdictional wholesale power transactions and
will not constitute the disposition of utility assets within the meaning of the Act, therefore,
no approval by the Commission is required for the virtual divestiture. 15
Exhibit G-4 to the Application previously filed herein is a listing of generation
facilities subject to divestiture as initially proposed by Exelon and PSEG (1,000 MW of peaking
capacity and a total of 1,900 MW of mid-merit capacity of which 550 MW would be coal-fired).
Subsequent to filing the Application, the proposed Generation Divestiture was expanded by an
additional 1,100 MW for the total divestiture as approved in the FERC Merger Order of 6,600 MW as
noted above and certain other generation facilities were added to the list subject to divestiture.
See Exhibit G-4.1 for the final list of the facilities that may be subject to the Generation
Divestiture.
The FERC Merger Order requires Applicants to
execute sales agreements and make appropriate filings at the FERC within twelve
(12) months of the Closing of the Merger in order to impliment the Generation Divestiture.
The Applicants intend to commence the divestiture process more
quickly, but 12 months may be necessary to conduct a sales process, negotiate all necessary
agreements and file for all necessary regulatory approvals.
As explained more fully herein, the FERC has approved the Merger based upon, among other
things, the Mitigation Plan and Applicants are asking the Commission to make the necessary findings
to support relief pursuant to Section 1081 of the Code with respect to the Generation
Transactions. None of the proposed mitigation, including the Generation
Divestiture, would adversely affect the integration of the combined electric utility operations for
purposes of the Act.
Applicants propose to effect the Generation Divestiture pursuant to a voluntary plan under
Section 11(e) of the Act. The Commission has consistently held that a plan under Section 11(e) of
the Act may be found necessary if it provides an appropriate means to achieving results required
by Section 11(b) of the Act . See, e.g., Northeast Utilities, Holding Co. Act Release No. 24908
(June 22, 1989) (approving a Section 11(e) plan to dispose of gas distribution system assets via a
spin-off of common stock of a newly constituted holding company system). Under Section 11(e), the
Commission shall approve a plan if it finds that:
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the plan is fair and equitable to persons affected by the plan; and |
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the plan is necessary to carry out the provisions of Section 11(b). |
In this matter, the Generation Divestiture has been found by the FERC to be necessary and in the
public interest as the fundamental underpinning of the FERC Merger Order. Generation Divestiture
has or will be an essential aspect of the effective performance by the FERC, of its regulatory
role. The reduction in the size of the combined companys generation fleet to reduce market power
and so provide for the effectiveness of regulation is at the core of Section 11(b)s integrated
public-utility system mandate. Since the Generation Divestiture will be an essential aspect of
the exercise of non-Commission regulatory oversight of the Merger, the Generation Divestiture has
become an appropriate means of achieving the Section 11(b) mandate.
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15 |
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For further description of the virtual
divestiture see Item 3.B.7.b below. |
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15
2. Generation Transactions Background
Exelon Generation owns or controls all of the Exelon systems generating assets including the
electric generating units that are subject to being divested as part of the Generation Divestiture.
PSEG Fossil is an exempt wholesale generator (EWG) under Section 32 of the Act and a
wholly-owned subsidiary of PSEG Power. PSEG Fossil owns directly the electric generating units
that are subject to being divested as part of the Generation Divestiture.
3. Exelon Generation Restructuring
After obtaining necessary approvals and third party consents, PSEG Power and PSEG Fossil will
cease to exist as separate entities and will become part of Exelon Generation. Accordingly, the
Generation Transactions will be specified in this Application on the assumption that the Exelon
Generation Restructuring will precede the Divestiture Generation Restructuring and the Generation
Divestiture.
4. Divestiture Generation Restructuring
In order to maximize the amount a buyer would be willing to pay for the Subject Assets, defined below, the Applicants are considering alternative options for effecting the
disposition by sale of the electric generating units (or the entities that own such units) listed
in Exhibit A (the Subject Assets), as required by the Generation Divestiture. Subsequent
to the Merger but prior to the implementation of any of the options set forth below, Exelon would
cause the owners of the Subject Assets (other than Exelon Generation) to transfer (pursuant to the
Consolidating Transfers) the Subject Assets to Exelon Generation (the Unit Owner). Certain of
the options would require internal restructurings to occur immediately prior to the disposition of
the Subject Assets to the buyer that would change the ownership structure of the Subject Assets.
The particular tax characteristics of the sale of a generating unit, including the buyers desired
tax structure, would determine which option would be utilized. Because there are likely to be
multiple buyers of the Subject Assets (each such buyer a Third Party), the Applicants may utilize
a different disposition option for each Third Party (the disposition to each such Third Party is
referred to herein as a Divestiture Transaction). The Subject Assets would be acquired pursuant
to each Divestiture Transaction in exchange for cash or other consideration (the Transfer
Consideration).
Option 1: the Unit Owner would sell the Subject Assets to the Third Party pursuant
to the Divestiture Transaction in exchange for the Transfer Consideration.
Option 2: Subsidiary 1, an affiliate of Exelon (but not an affiliate which is
otherwise an electric utility company or a gas utility company under the Act), would
create a new, single purpose entity (a corporation, limited liability company or other
appropriate entity) (an SPC) and fund the SPC with an amount of cash equal to the
Transfer Consideration to be paid by the Third Party in the Divestiture Transaction. The
SPC would then use this cash to purchase from the Unit Owner the Subject Assets desired by
the Third Party. Subsidiary 1 would then sell all of the interests in the SPC to the Third
Party in exchange for the Transfer Consideration.
Option 3: Subsidiary 2, a direct or indirect subsidiary of Exelon post-Merger (Holding
Sub), would create an SPC (NEWCO). Holding Sub would be funded with an amount of cash
equal to the Transfer Consideration to be paid by the Third Party in the Divestiture
Transaction, and Holding Sub would transfer 1% of this cash to NEWCO. Holding Sub and the
NEWCO would use this cash to purchase from the Unit Owner a 99% and 1% ownership interest,
respectively, in the Subject Assets desired by the Third Party. Immediately thereafter,
Holding Sub and NEWCO would contribute their interests in the Subject Assets to a second
SPC organized as a limited liability company or limited partnership (the OpCo) and
receive in exchange 99% and 1%, respectively, of the ownership interests in OpCo. Holding
Sub would then sell to the Third Party, in exchange for the Transfer Consideration, 100% of
the stock of NEWCO and its 99% ownership interest in OpCo (the other 1% of OpCo being held
by NEWCO and thus indirectly transferred to the Third Party).
16
The particulars of the option selected for each Divestiture Transaction would be specified in the
applicable Post-Merger FERC Compliance Filing. All of the steps outlined in Options 2 and 3 above
(including the internal restructurings) could occur simultaneously. 17
5. Summary of Relevant Provisions of the Internal Revenue Code
Code section 1081(b)(1) provides for the nonrecognition of gain or loss from a sale or
exchange of property made in obedience to a Commission order; however, gain will not be recognized
only to the extent that it can be (and is) applied to reduce the basis of the transferors
remaining assets as provided in Code section 1082(a)(2). In the event that the transferor receives
nonexempt property in the exchange, 18 Code section 1081(b)(2) mandates that
gain be recognized unless, within 24 months of the exchange, the transferor uses the nonexempt
property to acquire property other than nonexempt property or invests the nonexempt property in
accordance with that paragraph, and an order of the Commission recites that such expenditure or
investment is necessary or appropriate to the integration or simplification of the transferors
holding company system.
Code section 1081(d) provides for the nonrecognition of gain or loss from certain intercompany
transactions between members of the same system group if such transactions are made in obedience to
a Commission order. System group is defined in Code section 1083(d) to include, as a general
matter, corporations connected by common ownership with at least 90 percent of each class of stock
of the corporations owned by other members of the system group.
6. Section 1081 Recitals
It is requested that the order of the Commission on this Application: (i) recite that the sale
or disposition of generating units as part of the Generation Transactions is necessary or
appropriate to the integration or simplification of the post-Merger Exelon holding company system
and to effectuate the provisions of section 11(b); and (ii) require post-Merger Exelon to take
appropriate actions to cause its direct and indirect subsidiaries, as the case may be, to complete
the Generation Divestiture as and when required in order to comply with the FERC Merger
Order. 19
In particular, Applicants request that the Commission include the following in its order:
Each Consolidating Transfer is found to be necessary or appropriate to the integration or
simplification of the post-Merger Exelon holding company system and to effectuate the provisions of
Section 11(b) of the Act; and Exelon shall cause the entities that own the Subject Assets
immediately after
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17 |
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Options 2 and 3, if used, entail
inter-related transactions, which may also include additional interim steps
necessary to achieve the desired tax results, all of which are transitory in
nature and will have no lasting impact on the business or capital structure of
Exelon. These inter-related transactions should, therefore, be disregarded.
The purpose of the transactions, if they occur, would be to match the
unrecognized gain from the sale of the related Subject Asset to certain
subsidiaries of Exelon that have a sufficiently high tax basis on other classes
of property such that the unrecognized gain can be fully absorbed by the basis
reductions required by Code section 1082(a)(2). |
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The term nonexempt property is defined in
Code section 1083(e) to include, among other things, cash and indebtedness of
the transferor that is cancelled or assumed by the purchaser in the exchange. |
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The Commission has issued a number of orders
making similar Section 1081-related tax recitals in connection with other
divestitures in compliance with orders under Section 11(b)(1) of the Act in
furtherance of voluntary Section 11(e) plans. See, e.g., Ameren Corp., Holding
Company Act Release No. 27645 (January 29, 2003); KeySpan Corp., Holding
Company Act Release No. 27541 (June 19, 2002); NiSource, Inc., Holding Company
Act Release No. 27525 (April 29, 2002) and Progress Energy, Inc., Holding
Company Act Release No. 27444 (Sept. 26, 2001). |
17
the Merger (other than the Unit Owner) to transfer the Subject Assets to the Unit Owner in
exchange for cash or other consideration in accordance with Section 1081(d) of the Code.
Any Divestiture Transaction undertaken in the form described in Option 1 is found to be
necessary or appropriate to the integration or simplification of the post-Merger Exelon holding
company system and to effectuate the provisions of Section 11(b) of the Act; Exelon shall cause the
Unit Owner to sell the Subject Assets that are to be disposed of in the Divestiture Transaction to
the Third Party in exchange for the Transfer Consideration in accordance with Section 1081(b)(1) of
the Code; and Exelon shall reinvest the sales proceeds within 24 months of the divestiture date in
a manner that complies with Section 1081(b)(2) of the Code.
Any Divestiture Transaction and all intercompany transactions preceding such Divestiture
Transaction undertaken in the form described in Option 2 are found to be necessary or appropriate
to the integration or simplification of the post-Merger Exelon holding company system and to
effectuate the provisions of Section 11(b) of the Act; and Exelon shall cause the Unit Owner to
sell the Subject Assets that are to be disposed of in the Divestiture Transaction to the SPC owned
by Subsidiary 1 in exchange for the Transfer Consideration in accordance with Section 1081(d) of
the Code.
Any Divestiture Transaction and all intercompany transactions preceding such Divestiture
Transaction undertaken in the form described in Option 3 are found to be necessary or appropriate
to the integration or simplification of the post-Merger Exelon holding company system and to
effectuate the provisions of Section 11(b) of the Act; Exelon shall cause the Unit Owner to sell
99% and 1% of the Subject Assets that are to be disposed of in the Divestiture Transaction to
Holding Sub and NEWCO, respectively, in exchange for the Transfer Consideration in accordance with
Section 1081(d) of the Code; Exelon shall cause Holding Sub to sell all of its interests in NEWCO
and OpCo to the Third Party in exchange for the Transfer Consideration in accordance with Section
1081(b)(1) of the Code; and Exelon shall cause Holding Sub to reinvest the sales proceeds within 24
months of the divestiture date in a manner that complies with Section 1081(b)(2) of the Code.
The
foregoing request for Section 1081 recitals is subject to possible
modification (to be detailed in an amendment to this Application) so
that the subject Divesture Transaction encompasses all physical assets being disposed of by the Applicants in connection with obtaining Merger-related approvals.
I. Affiliate Transactions
1. Service Company Transactions
Under the 2000 Merger Order, the Commission authorized Exelon to organize and capitalize
Exelon BSC as a service company subsidiary, found that Exelon BSC was so organized and conducted,
or to be conducted, as to meet the requirements of section 13(b) of the Act with respect to
reasonable assurance of efficient and economical performance of services or construction or sale of
goods for the benefit of associate companies, at cost fairly and equitably allocated among them (or
as permitted by Rule 90), and authorized Exelon BSC to provide ComEd, PECO and other companies in
the Exelon system with administrative, management, engineering, construction, environmental, and
other support services pursuant to a General Services Agreement. 20
The 2000 Merger Order directed Exelon to file a post-effective amendment in File No.
70-9645 describing its accounting systems and cost allocation methodologies and requesting a
supplemental order of the Commission. On October 1, 2001, Exelon filed Amendment No. 5 (Second
Post-Effective) in File No. 70-9645.21 Thereafter, on October 31, 2003, Exelon
submitted a 60-day letter that, as supplemented,
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20 |
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The form of General Services Agreement was
filed as Exhibit B-2 to Amendment No. 3 in File No. 70-9645. |
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21 |
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A copy of the Exelon Business Service
Company Associate Transaction Procedures Manual (the Manual) dated October 1,
2001 was filed as Exhibit B-2.1 in File No. 70-9645. A revised copy of the
Manual, which incorporated changes requested by the Commission, was provided to
the Commission Staff in August of 2003. No supplemental order was ever issued,
although Exelon has fully complied with the requirement to file the
post-effective amendment. Therefore, Exelon requests, to the extent the
Commission deems it necessary to make additional findings with respect to
Exelon BSC, that it make those findings in the instant proceeding. |
18
described certain proposed changes in allocation methods for corporate governance costs, and
the reorganization of Energy Delivery Shared Services, a business unit of Exelon BSC that would
begin to provide new services to ComEd and PECO effective January 1, 2004.22
In connection with the Merger, PSEG Services will sell all of its assets to Exelon BSC, change
its name and remain as a subsidiary. Post-Merger, Exelon BSC intends to add the former PSEG
companies as client companies under the General Services Agreement and will provide to the new
client companies the same administrative, management, and technical services that it now provides
to Exelon system companies, utilizing the same work order procedures and the same methods of
allocating costs that are specified in the General Services Agreement.23 In connection
with the Transaction, certain employees of PSEG Services may be transferred to and become employees
of Exelon BSC, which will be the sole subsidiary service company for the Exelon system.
Exelon requests that the Commission find, to the extent required, that following the
transactions described herein, Exelon BSC will continue to be organized and conducted in a manner
to meet the requirements of Section 13(b) of the Act. Recognizing that it will take some time for
conversion to Exelon BSC platforms of the work order procedures, cost capture and allocation
processes of the portion of Exelon BSC that was formerly PSEG Services, Applicants request
authority to delay the full implementation of all services and systems relative to the new PSEG
clients until after February 8, 2006.
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Other Inter-Company Goods and Services At Cost |
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(a) |
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Incidental Services |
The 2000 Merger Order recognized that ComEd, PECO and Exelon Generation may provide services
incidental to their utility businesses, such as infrastructure services and storm outage emergency
repairs, to one another and other associate companies in accordance with rules 87, 90 and 91. In
accordance with these rules also, a utility may provide certain goods, through a leasing
arrangement or otherwise, to one or more associate companies, and may use certain assets for the
benefit of one or more associate companies. Following the Merger, PSE&G also may provide these
incidental services to, or receive these incidental services from, the other Exelon companies.
PSE&G also may provide goods, through a leasing arrangement or otherwise, to one or more associate
companies, and may use certain assets for the benefit of one or more associate companies.
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(b) |
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Services Required for the Efficient Operation of Exelon
Generations Businesses |
Under the 2000 Merger Order, the Commission authorized Exelon Generation and any future
subsidiary of Exelon Generation and AmerGen Energy Company, LLC (AmerGen) to provide services at
cost to each other as required for the efficient operation of the Exelon system generating
facilities. Although Exelon Generation is an electric utility company under the Act, it is not
subject to state rate regulation and has no captive customers. Following the Merger, as is the
case now, Exelon Generation will own and operate generating facilities, engage in energy marketing
and trading, and invest in and own exempt wholesale generators, intermediate companies and other
permitted investments such as Rule 58 energy-related companies, all of which are operated as an
integral part of its system generating facilities. Accordingly, Exelon Generation proposes that
post-Merger it, and all of its current and future subsidiaries,
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22 |
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Under the 2000 Merger Order, Exelon BSC is
required to give written notice to the Commission at least 60 days prior to
implementing any change in the type and character of the companies receiving
services, the methods of allocating costs to associate companies, or the scope
or character of services to be rendered. |
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Exelon and PSE&G are seeking approval of the
General Services Agreement from the NJBPU |
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including the former PSEG subsidiaries, will provide services at cost to each other as
required for the efficient operation of Exelon Generations businesses.
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(c) |
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Services at the Interface between Generation and Transmission and Distribution |
Under the 2000 Merger Order, the Commission authorized Exelon Generation to render and receive
services at cost from ComEd and PECO related to the interface primarily switchyard facilities
between the generation function of Exelon Generation and the transmission and distribution
functions of ComEd and PECO. Applicants request authorization for ComEd, PECO, PSE&G, Exelon
Generation and its subsidiaries to render and receive the same types of services at cost, among
each other following the Merger.
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(d) |
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Exelon Generation Services in Connection with Supply of
Electricity and Natural Gas |
a. Scheduling Coordination Agreements. PSE&G is obligated to purchase electricity from
certain QFs, is obligated to purchase electricity from certain EWGs under restructured former PURPA
contracts, and receives an allocation of hydroelectric power from the St. Lawrence Power Project.
Pursuant to a stipulation filed at the NJBPU, PSE&G is obligated to resell this power at wholesale
into the PJM spot market. As PSE&G owns no generation and engages in no other wholesale energy
transactions, it relies upon its affiliate PSEG ER&T to schedule these transactions on its behalf
and to submit bids for capacity as directed by PSE&G. PSEG ER&T also fulfills certain billing and
accounting functions with respect to such energy and capacity. These services are provided under
two agreements (Scheduling Coordination Agreements) pursuant to which PSE&G receives the full PJM
market value for the electricity. PSE&G either (i) pays PSEG ER&T a cost-based fee, or (ii)
enables PSEG ER&T to receive a credit from PJM for capacity from the purchases described above
against any emergency power it would otherwise have to pay for under the PJM Open Access
Transmission Tariff. The Scheduling Coordination Agreements will be assumed by Exelon Generation
by operation of law.
b. BGSS Gas Contract. PSEG ER&T provides full-requirements gas supply service to PSE&G
pursuant to a contract approved by the NJBPU for the purpose of satisfying all of PSE&Gs retail
gas service obligations (BGSS Gas Contract). As part of the transaction approved by the NJBPU,
PSEG ER&T assumed the PSE&G entitlements under most of its gas transportation and storage contracts
with interstate pipelines. In a few cases, the entitlements remained with PSE&G and PSEG ER&T
administers the contracts as PSE&Gs agent. The BGSS Gas Contract will be assumed by Exelon
Generation by operation of law.
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2. |
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Exelon Generation Services in Connection with Supply of
Electricity and Natural Gas. |
Under the 2000 Merger Order, the Commission authorized Exelon Generation to provide, at cost,
supply planning services and assistance to ComEd and PECO and to assist the utilities in obtaining
energy supply resources from unaffiliated sellers, in each case in connection with the utilitys
unbundled retail sales and/or wholesale sales, to the extent that energy supply is not provided by
Exelon Generation. The Retail Utility Subsidiaries might require assistance from Exelon Generation
with respect to the procurement process for the procurement of energy for the utilities bundled as
well as unbundled retail sales. For this reason, and also to allow Exelon Generation to provide
any jurisdictional services currently provided by PSEG ER&T pursuant to the Scheduling Coordination
Agreements and the BGSS Gas Contract, the Applicants request that the authorization obtained in the
2000 Merger Order be modified not only to include PSE&G, but also to relate to the Retail Utility
Subsidiaries bundled retail sales, as well as unbundled retail sales and/or wholesale sales, of
both electricity and natural gas. Thus, the Applicants request that the Commission authorize
Exelon Generation to provide, at cost, supply planning services and assistance to the Retail
Utility Subsidiaries and to assist the utilities in obtaining, or disposing of, energy supply
resources from unaffiliated sellers, in each case in connection with the Retail Utility
Subsidiaries
20
bundled and unbundled retail sales and/or wholesale sales, to the extent that energy supply is
not provided by Exelon Generation. 24
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(e) |
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Modification of Intercompany Services Authorized by the 2000 Merger Order |
ComEd currently provides to and receives from affiliates certain services in accordance with
an Affiliated Interests Agreement (ComEd AIA) approved by the ICC. PECOs form of Mutual
Services Agreement (PECO MSA) under which PECO provides and receives certain services from
affiliates has been approved by the PAPUC.25 In connection with the Merger, PSE&G plans
to enter into a Mutual Services Agreement (the PSE&G MSA) to govern affiliated interest
transactions between PSE&G and its affiliates other than Exelon BSC as service
provider.26 Such transactions would be executed at cost, consistent with Rules 90 and
91.
The 2000 Merger Order approved, as part of the filing in File No. 70-9645, Exhibit B-3.3 (Part
B), which listed then existing arrangements under the ComEd AIA, the PECO MSA, or individual
contracts pursuant to which ComEd and PECO received or rendered services at other than cost. Those
arrangements or contracts have all either concluded, or are being conducted currently at cost.
Such Exhibit B-3.3 (Part A) listed those services expected to be provided by one Exelon
(non-service) company to another company at cost. These services are reported in a semi-annual
report of affiliate transactions. The report for the first six months of the year is filed under a
Rule 24 certificate at the time of the filing of Exelons Rule 24 certificate for the second
quarter. The report for the second six months of the year is filed as an attachment to Exelon
BSCs Report on Form U-13-60. Exelon proposes to modify the service providers and recipients under
the types of services so described in the 2000 Merger Order so that each of ComEd, PECO, PSE&G and
Exelon Generation may provide, at cost, the listed services to associate companies in the new
Exelon system under the same conditions as currently apply to the Exelon system
companies. 27
In addition to the services authorized to be provided and received as described in such
Exhibit B-3.3 as contemplated by the 2000 Merger Order, as modified herein, Applicants request
authorization for the following additional services to be provided at cost. These services will
also be subject to the aforementioned reporting requirements.
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a) |
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PowerLabs Services to ComEd, PECO and PSE&G. Exelon Generation was
authorized to provide Instrument Calibration services to PECO in Exhibit B-3.3. Since
the time of the 2000 Merger Order, the department of Exelon Generation that performed
those services has been placed in a separate first-tier Rule 58 subsidiary of Exelon
Generation. The new company, which is called Exelon PowerLabs, LLC (PowerLabs),
provides Instrument Calibration services at cost to Exelon Generation under the
authority in the 2000 Merger Order permitting |
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24 |
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The described services will be provided at
cost, with the exception of some services under the Scheduling Coordination
Agreements, which provide, as an alternate mechanism for PSE&G to compensate
PSEG ER&T (Exelon Generation after the Exelon Generation Restructuring) for
scheduling coordination services, for PSEG ER&T to receive a credit from PJM
for capacity, all as described above. |
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The ComEd AIA and PECO MSA were filed as
Exhibits B-3.1 and B-3.2, respectively, in File No. 70-9645. |
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26 |
|
Exelon and PSE&G are seeking approval of the
PSE&G MSA from the NJBPU. The PSEG MSA is filed as Exhibit B-4 hereto. |
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27 |
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Such services as described on Exhibit B-3.3
include: services provided by the Retail Utility Subsidiaries: regulatory and
legislative services, call center, central mail, fleet services, real estate
and facilities, distribution technical services, telephone overflow coverage,
strategic marketing and sourcing, installation and maintenance of substation
equipment, purchase of materials and logistics, metering equipment and rubber
goods, customer services rep emergency training, environmental and lab
services, training for electrical and fire; and services provided by Exelon
Generation: instrument calibration, operation of Richmond Frequency Converters
and synchronous condenser maintenance. |
21
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|
Exelon Generation and any future subsidiary of Exelon Generation to provide services at
cost to each other as required for the efficient operation of the Exelon system
generating facilities. PowerLabs also provides Instrument Calibration and other
technical services at cost, pursuant to Rule 87(b)(1), to Exelon BSC, which passes them
through, at cost, to ComEd and PECO. Applicants request that PowerLabs be authorized
to provide Instrument Calibration and other technical services, (including component
testing and failure analysis) at cost, directly to ComEd, PECO and PSE&G, in addition
to Exelon Generation. |
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b) |
|
Energy Efficiency Audit Services by the Retail Utility Subsidiaries to Other
Exelon Companies. ComEd Technical Services performs site efficiency assessments,
which review current energy use profiles and identify cost-savings opportunities
(Energy Efficiency Audit Services). ComEd has provided a small volume of these
services at cost to Exelon Generation and PECO under Rules 87, 90 and 91, as services
incidental to its utility business. In anticipation that the volume of these services
may grow over time, may be provided by the other Retail Utility Subsidiaries and may
be useful to other Exelon system companies, the Applicants request the Retail Utility
Subsidiaries be authorized to provide Energy Efficiency Audit Services to other
companies in the Exelon system at cost. |
|
c) |
|
Exelon Generation Maintenance, Repair and Plant Engineering Services. PSEG
Power provides a range of specialized maintenance, repair and plant engineering
services on energy-related electro-mechanical equipment. PSEG Power provides these
services to PSEG Fossil and its EWG subsidiaries, as well as to PSEG Nuclear, PSE&G
and PSEG Services. PSEG Power charges its affiliates a blended hourly rate that
recovers the fully allocated cost of providing these services. PSEG Power charges
PSE&G approximately $3.4 million on an annual basis for the services it provides to
PSE&G. PSEG Power charges PSEG Fossils EWG subsidiaries approximately $150,000 on an
annual basis for the services it provides to these entities. After the Exelon
Generation Restructuring, PSEG Power will be part of Exelon Generation. Thus,
Applicants request authorization for Exelon Generation to provide these services, at
cost, to other Exelon companies, including, but not limited to, PSE&G, Exelon BSC,
ComEd and PECO. |
|
d) |
|
Peak Shaving Services. To facilitate PSEG ER&Ts provision of BGSS to PSE&G,
PSE&G provides a peaking natural gas supply to PSEG ER&T from three Liquefied Propane
Air (LPA) Plants and one Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Plant. The LPA and LNG
peaking supplies are economical alternatives to gas supply contracts for very short
periods of time. PSE&G charges PSEG ER&T for all labor, material and other costs that
are required to operate and maintain the facilities along with a carrying cost for the
return on and depreciation of the investment. PECO may enter into similar
arrangements with Exelon Generation regarding similar gas peak facilities owned by it.
Applicants request authorization for PSE&G to provide these peak shaving services to
Exelon Generation, as successor to PSEG ER&T and for PECO to provide similar peak
shaving services to Exelon Generation, in the event PECO enters into similar
arrangements with Exelon Generation. |
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e) |
|
The Indiana Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary of ComEd, is a public utility
company. Its sole business is owning transmission assets in Indiana and providing
transmission service pursuant to the FERC tariff of PJM. The Indiana Company has no
retail customers. Because the Indiana Company has no employees, all services required
to manage and operate the facilities of the Indiana Company are provided by either
Exelon BSC or ComEd. Exelon BSC has broad authority to provide all services it
currently provides to the Indiana Company. These include, but are not necessarily
limited to, legal and cash management services. To date, ComEd has provided, at cost,
incidental services in connection with operation and maintenance of the Indiana
Companys transmission assets, as well as various administrative and managerial
services, including but not limited to accounting and tax. Since these services will
continue to be provided to the Indiana Company, Applicants request that ComEd be
authorized to provide operation and maintenance services and administrative and
managerial services, at cost, to the Indiana Company on an ongoing basis. |
22
J. Issuance of Common Stock in the Merger
Exelon requests approval to issue that number of shares of its common stock necessary to
comply with its obligations under the Merger Agreement. Exelon expects that it will issue
approximately 341 million shares of common stock to the former holders of PSEG common stock in the
Merger. This includes approximately 14 million shares of common stock, or options on its common
stock, that Exelon will be required to issue at the consummation of the Merger to satisfy the
obligations under various PSEG stock option and employee benefit plans.
Upon completion of the Merger, each outstanding option to purchase shares of PSEG common stock
will be assumed by Exelon and substituted with an option to purchase shares of Exelon common stock,
exercisable on generally the same terms and conditions that applied before the Merger. The number
of shares of Exelon common stock subject to the substitute Exelon stock option will equal the
number of shares of PSEG common stock subject to the PSEG stock option immediately prior to
completion of the Merger, multiplied by the exchange ratio, rounded down to the nearest whole
share. The per share exercise price of each substitute Exelon stock option will equal the exercise
price of the PSEG stock option immediately prior to completion of the Merger divided by the
exchange ratio, rounded up to the nearest whole cent. In addition, upon completion of the Merger,
Exelon will assume all PSEG equity-based awards and substitute them with equity-based awards with
respect to shares of Exelon common stock on generally the same terms and conditions that applied
before completion of the Merger. The number of shares of Exelon common stock issuable under those
awards, and the exercise prices for those awards, will be adjusted to take into account the
exchange ratio (1.225) in the Merger.
K. PSEG Indebtedness Assumed
As a consequence of the Merger and the Exelon Generation Restructuring, all the existing
consolidated indebtedness of PSEG will become consolidated indebtedness of Exelon. As the
surviving entity in the Merger, Exelon will become the successor obligor on all outstanding
indebtedness directly issued by PSEG. Further, subject to receipt of the appropriate consents,
upon the Exelon Generation Restructuring, indebtedness and obligations of PSEG Power, PSEG Nuclear,
PSEG Fossil and PSEG ER&T will become obligations of Exelon Generation. Prior to the closing of
the Merger, PSEG Powers debt holders will be solicited for consent to amendments to certain of its
existing debt instruments to reflect the changes in credit profile and other circumstances that
will result from the assumption by Exelon Generation of PSEG Power indebtedness. 28
Exelon will not legally assume or become successor obligor on any outstanding
indebtedness of PSEG system companies, except (as noted above) for PSEG indebtedness for which
Exelon is successor obligor. Exelon may issue guaranties on behalf of former PSEG system companies
subject to the limitations on guaranties contained in the 2004 Financing Order, modified as
described below. Likewise, except for the obligations of PSEG Power, PSEG Nuclear, PSEG Fossil and
PSEG ER&T for which Exelon Generation becomes successor obligor in the Generation Restructuring,
Exelon Generation will not legally assume any outstanding indebtedness of any PSEG system company.
Exelon Generation may issue guaranties on behalf of former PSEG system companies subject to the
limitations on guaranties contained in the 2004 Financing Order, modified as described below.
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28 |
|
For purposes of the Securities Act of 1933,
the assumption by Exelon Generation of the obligations of PSEG Power which have
been the subject of changed terms by reason of the consent solicitation may be
considered the offering of new securities by Exelon Generation that requires
registration on an S-4 Registration Statement. However, as a matter of
corporate law, the intention is that Exelon Generation will become the
successor obligor on the obligations, as amended, by operation of law in the
Exelon Generation Restructuring. |
23
Filed herewith as Exhibit G-5 are descriptions of all outstanding indebtedness and obligations
of PSEG that are expected to become consolidated indebtedness of Exelon following the
Merger. 29 Filed as Exhibit G-6 is a description of all existing inter-company
guaranties in the PSEG system that will remain in place following the Merger. 30
Applicants seek approval to the extent required for the consolidation of indebtedness, or
in the case of Exelon and Exelon Generation, becoming the successor obligor under the indebtedness,
and continuation of inter-company guaranties, as described above. Applicants further request
authority to continue existing financing arrangements, guarantees and hedging arrangements, as well
as any transactions undertaken to extend the terms of or replace, refund or refinance existing
obligations and the issuance of new obligations in exchange for existing obligations, provided in
each case that the issuing entitys total capitalization is not increased as a result of such
financing transaction except as permitted by the 2004 Financing Order modified as discussed below.
L. Modifications to 2004 Financing Order
1. The 2004 Financing Order
On April 1, 2004, Exelon received approval from the Commission in the 2004 Financing Order
(Docket No. 70-10189) to engage in certain financing transactions. The 2004 Financing Order
authorized, through April 15, 2007, certain financing transactions, including the issuance of
common stock, preferred securities, equity-linked securities, long-term debt and short-term debt in
an aggregate amount not to exceed $8.0 billion above the amount outstanding for Exelon and Exelon
Generation at December 31, 2003, with no separate sublimit for short-term debt.31 The
2004 Financing Order also authorized the use of up to $4 billion of the proceeds of financings for
investments in EWGs and FUCOs, and reserved jurisdiction over a request to use an additional $3
billion of the proceeds of financings for investments in EWGs and FUCOs.
Because the 2004 Financing Order did not contemplate a transaction of the magnitude of the
current Merger, Exelon is requesting, as noted in Item 1. J. above, approval for the issuance of
its common stock in the Merger and related to stock options and employee plans. In addition,
certain modifications to the 2004 Financing Order are necessary to accommodate the addition of the
PSEG system into the Exelon system. Except for the issuance of common stock in the Merger and the
specific modifications listed below, however, Exelon is not seeking any changes to the approvals
granted in the 2004 Financing Order.
In particular, Exelon is not proposing to increase the authorized amount of new financing it
will be permitted above the existing authorized $8 billion. As noted in the 2004 Financing Order:
Applicants state that [the $8 billion External Limit] does not include the refunding or
replacement of securities where capitalization is not increased from that in place at [a specified
date]. Applicants state that any refunding or replacement of securities where capitalization is
not increased from that in place at [the specified date] will
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29 |
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Applicants will update this exhibit to
reflect changes that may occur prior to the issuance of an order in this
proceeding. |
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30 |
|
In addition, Exelon will increase its
consolidated indebtedness by approximately $3.2 billion as a result of the
outstanding consolidated obligations of PSEG Holdings, the non-utility
subsidiary of PSEG which will become a first tier subsidiary of Exelon. These
obligations are included in the calculations of the pro forma post-Merger
capitalization of Exelon. All such obligations would have been exempt from the
requirement of Commission approval under Rule 52(b) if issued by a subsidiary
of a registered holding company so no approval for their assumption is sought
in this proceeding. |
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31 |
|
The 2004 Financing Order replaced the
approval granted by the Commission in Docket No. 70-9693 to engage in certain
financing transactions pursuant to orders dated November 2, 2000 (Holding Co.
Act Release No. 35-27266) and December 8, 2000 (Holding Co. Act Release No.
35-27296) (collectively, the 2000 Orders) that expired on March 31, 2004.
The 2000 Orders had authorized up to $4.0 billion of financing. |
24
be through the issuance of securities of the type authorized in [the 2004 Financing Order].
Applicants request that the base level of capitalization, against which the authorized increase of
$8 billion will be measured, will be adjusted to be the pro forma capitalization of Exelon or
Exelon Generation, as the case may be, as of the date of consummation of the Merger and Exelon
Generation Restructuring.
Exelon proposes that the 2004 Financing Order will remain in full force and effect except to
the extent expressly modified by the Commissions order in this matter. Except as specifically
modified herein, all parameters, restrictions and conditions imposed in the 2004 Financing Order
will remain in effect.
2. Requested Modifications of 2004 Financing Order32
Applicants seek approval for the following modifications to the 2004 Financing Order:
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i. |
|
The definition of Utility Subsidiaries under the 2004 Financing Order be amended
to include PSE&G, and the definition of Nonutility Subsidiaries be amended to include
all non-utility subsidiary companies of PSEG.33 |
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ii. |
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The Utility Money Pool authority be amended to permit: (a) PSE&G to become a
participant in the Utility Money Pool, with a participation limit for borrowing of $1
billion, and (b) Exelon Generation to borrow up to $1.5 billion (an increase from $1
billion) at any one time outstanding from the Utility Money Pool34, and (c)
PSEG Holdings to participate in the Utility Money Pool as a lender to, but not as a
borrower from, the Utility Money Pool. |
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iii. |
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To authorize the establishment of a Nonutility Money Pool.35 |
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iv. |
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To add authority, to the extent not exempt under Rule 52, for PSE&G to enter into
Hedge Instruments and Anticipatory Hedges of the same type and under the same conditions
as authorized under the 2004 Financing Order. |
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32 |
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Capitalized terms used in this Item 1.L. and
not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings assigned to such terms in
the 2004 Financing Order. |
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33 |
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The authority under the 2004 Financing
Order, as it relates to non-utilities, applies to all other direct and
indirect subsidiaries that Exelon may hereinafter form or acquire in accordance
with a Commission order or otherwise in accordance with the Act or a rule
promulgated thereunder. By extending the authorizations of the 2004 Financing
Order to the new, former PSEG, non-utility subsidiaries acquired in the Merger,
such subsidiaries will be authorized, in each case subject to the restrictions
and conditions of the 2004 Financing Order, inter alia to: (i) create and
enter into transactions with Financing Subsidiaries, (ii) issue intra-system
advances and guarantees, to the extent not exempt pursuant to Rules 45(b) and
52, to or on behalf of other Non-Utility Subsidiaries and others, (iii) benefit
from the issuance by Exelon of guaranties approved by the 2004 Financing Order,
(iv) participate in the Nonutility Money Pool, subject to the release of
jurisdiction over the formation of the Nonutilty Money Pool as specified in the
2004 Financing Order, (v) pay dividends out of capital or unearned surplus,
(vi) enter into Non-Exempt Non-Utility Guaranties (as defined in the 2004
Financing Order), and (vii) change the par value, or change between par value
and no-par stock, or change the form of such equity from common stock to
limited partnership or limited liability company interests or similar
instruments, or from such instruments to common stock, without additional
Commission approval. |
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34 |
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The 2004 Financing Order authorized Unicom
Investments, Inc. to participate in the Utility Money Pool as a lender only.
Unicom Investments, Inc. has been reorganized and is now UII, LLC. |
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35 |
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The Commission reserved jurisdiction over
the establishment of a Nonutility Money Pool in the 2004 Financing Order. |
25
|
v. |
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To add authority for Exelon to enter into guarantees to or on behalf of the PSEG
companies, and PSE&G to enter into Non-Exempt Utility Guarantees, all under the terms and
conditions authorized under the 2004 Financing Order. |
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vi. |
|
To increase to $8 billion (from the current $6 billion) the aggregate authority for
Exelon and Exelon Generation to issue guaranties. |
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vii. |
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To add authority for PSE&G to pay dividends out of capital to the extent of PSE&Gs
retained earnings immediately prior to the Merger where such retained earnings are
transferred to paid in capital in accordance with purchase accounting. |
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viii. |
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To add authority for Delivery to pay dividends out of capital to the extent of
PSE&Gs retained earnings immediately prior to the Merger where such retained earnings
are transferred to paid in capital in accordance with purchase accounting. |
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ix. |
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To add authority for Exelon Generation to pay dividends out of capital to the
extent of the retained earnings of PSEG Power, PSEG Nuclear, PSEG Fossil and PSEG ER&T
immediately prior to the Merger where such retained earnings are transferred to paid in
capital in accordance with purchase accounting. |
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x. |
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To add authority for Ventures to pay dividends out of capital to the extent of the
retained earnings of (A) PSEG Power, PSEG Nuclear, PSEG Fossil and PSEG ER&T immediately
prior to the Merger where such retained earnings are transferred to paid in capital in
accordance with purchase accounting and (B) PSEG Holdings immediately prior to the Merger
where such retained earnings are transferred to paid in capital in accordance with
purchase accounting in the event PSEG Holdings becomes a subsidiary of Ventures rather
than a direct subsidiary of Exelon.36 |
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xi. |
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To increase Exelons authority to pay dividends out of capital by the amount of
PSEGs retained earnings immediately prior to the Merger where such retained earnings are
transferred to paid in capital in accordance with purchase accounting.37 |
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xii. |
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To add authority for Exelon, Exelon Generation, Ventures, Delivery and PSE&G to
declare and pay dividends out of current earnings before any deduction resulting from
impairment of goodwill or other intangibles recognized as a result of the
Merger.38 |
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xiii. |
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To increase to 75 million shares (from 42 million shares approved by the 2004
Financing Order) the number of shares of Exelon common stock that may be issued,
following the Merger, under Exelons dividend reinvestment plan, employee stock ownership
plan, certain incentive compensation plans and certain other employee benefit plans,
including PSEG plans assumed as part of the Merger, as described below (collectively, the
Plans). |
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36 |
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Such dividend authority is requested in the
event that Exelon were to do an internal restructuring to move PSEG Holdings, a
non-utility subsidiary to be a subsidiary of Ventures rather than as a direct
first tier subsidiary of Exelon as is contemplated to be the structure
immediately following the Merger. No further approval under the Act would be
required for such a restructuring for PSEG Holdings under the authorization
granted in Holding Co. Act Release No. 27545 (June 27, 2002). |
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37 |
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This new approval will not affect the
authority of ComEd and Exelon to pay dividends out of capital up to $500
million as approved in the 2004 Financing Order. |
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38 |
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Applicants ask the Commission to reserve
jurisdiction over this request pending completion of the record. |
26
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xiv. |
|
To increase the amount of financing proceeds that may be used for investments in
EWGs and FUCOs such that aggregate investment within the meaning of Rule 53 does not
exceed $8.0 billion (an increase from $4 billion currently authorized).39 |
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xv. |
|
To provide that the base capitalization against which the limit of additional
financing of $8 billion authorized in the 2004 Financing Order is measured shall be the
pro forma capitalization of Exelon or Exelon Generation as the case may be, as of the
date of consummation of the Merger and the Exelon Generation Restructuring. Financial
information given herein as to the pro forma effect of the Merger is as of the date
indicated and is illustrative only of the actual opening balance sheet of Exelon
post-Merger that will be used for this purpose. As required under the 2004 Financing
Order, all financing where capitalization is not increased from that in place at the
Merger date will be through the issuance of securities of the type authorized in the 2004
Financing Order, modified as described herein, and subject to the Financing Parameters
(as defined in the 2004 Financing Order).40 |
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xvi. |
|
To add authority for Exelon Generation to engage in tax-exempt financing pursuant to
sale or lease transactions of its utility assets as described below |
3. Parameters for Financing Authorization.
The proposed financing transactions will be subject to the Financing Parameters, as set forth
in the 2004 Financing Order, without modification. Accordingly the limits on effective cost of
money on financings, maturity, issuance expense and use of proceeds shall be unchanged. The 30%
common equity condition shall apply to PSE&G as a Utility Subsidiary. 41 The
30% Condition will be unchanged for Exelon, ComEd, PECO and Exelon Generation. Finally, the
Investment Grade Condition (as defined in the 2004 Financing Order) will apply to PSE&G to the
extent it requires Commission approval for any securities issuance.42
4. Filing of Certificates of Notification
Exelon currently files quarterly reports in connection with the 2004 Financing Order.
Applicants propose to continue to file Rule 24 certificates
through February 8, 2006 containing the information required by
the 2004 Financing
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39 |
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In the 2004 Financing Order, the Commission
authorized up to $4 billion in File No. 70-10189. |
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40 |
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The capitalization base for Exelon and
Exelon Generation, respectively, will be measured according to the balance
sheet prepared to reflect consummation of the Merger, by taking the post-Merger
outstanding common stock or membership interests (excluding retained earnings),
preferred and preference securities, long-term debt, short-term debt, current
portion of long-term debt and securitization obligations, as applicable, of
Exelon and Exelon Generation. Increases in capitalization through securities
issuances of Exelon and Exelon Generation, as the case may be, will count
towards the $8 billion limit; but increases in consolidated capitalization
resulting from exempt securities issuances (such as issuances of state
commission approved securities by the Retail Utility Subsidiaries) and
increases to retained earnings will not reduce available financing. Retirement
or redemption of securities or reductions in equity through stock buybacks by
Exelon or Exelon Generation, as the case may be, in each case with available
funds will correspondingly increase available financing. |
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41 |
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Under the 2004 Financing Order, the
consequence of failing to satisfy the 30% Condition when required is that the
Applicant issuer would not be authorized to issue securities in a transaction
subject to Commission approval except for securities which would result in an
increase in such common equity percentages. |
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42 |
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PSE&G receives approval from the NJPBU for
all of its securities issuances, both long-term and short-term and, therefore,
is not seeking Commission approval for any exempt securities issuances
hereunder. |
27
Order for the post-Merger Exelon system, including equivalent information relating to former
PSEG system subsidiaries.
5. Increase in Shares for Plans; New and Adopted Plans
The 2004 Financing Order authorized Exelon to issue and/or acquire in open market
transactions, or by some other method which complies with applicable law and Commission
interpretations then in effect, up to 42 million shares of Exelon common stock (adjusted for a
stock split) under Exelons dividend reinvestment plan, employee stock ownership plan, certain
incentive compensation plans and certain other employee benefit plans. Such issuances are in
addition to common stock that may be issued under the general financing authorization of $8
billion. Exelon proposes to increase the number of shares authorized for this purpose to 75 million
to accommodate two new Exelon plans and the former PSEG plans that will become Exelons
responsibility following the Merger. Exelon stock will be used, following the Merger, to satisfy
requirements under the PSEG plans to provide common stock. These plans are summarized below.
Exelon Corporation 2006 Long-Term Incentive Plan
The purpose of the Exelon Corporation 2006 Long-Term Incentive Plan (the Incentive Plan) is
to encourage designated key employees of Exelon and its subsidiaries to contribute materially to
the growth of the company, thereby benefiting Exelons shareholders. The Incentive Plan authorizes
the following types of grants singly, in combination or in tandem: non-qualified stock options,
incentive stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock and restricted stock units,
including performance share awards and performance units.43
Exelon Corporation Employee Stock Purchase Plan For Unincorporated Subsidiaries
The purposes of the Exelon Corporation Employee Stock Purchase Plan For Unincorporated
Subsidiaries (the Purchase Plan) are to provide employees of participating subsidiaries added
incentive to remain employed and promote Exelons bests interests by permitting these employees to
purchase shares of Exelon common stock at below-market prices through payroll deductions on
substantially the same basis as employees who participate in Exelons qualified employee stock
purchase plan.44
Public Service Enterprise Group Incentive Plans
The purposes of the Public Service Enterprise Group Incorporated 1989 Long-Term Incentive Plan
(the 1989 Plan), the Public Service Enterprise Group Incorporated 2001 Long-Term Incentive Plan
(the 2001 Plan), and the Public Service Enterprise Group Incorporated 2004 Long-Term Incentive
Plan (the 2004 Plan, and together with the 1989 Plan and 2001 Plan, the PSEG Incentive Plans)
are to promote the growth and profitability of the company and its subsidiaries by enabling them to
attract and retain the best available personnel for positions of substantial responsibility; to
motivate participants, by means of appropriate incentives, to achieve long-range goals; to provide
incentive compensation opportunities that are competitive with those of other similar companies;
and to align participants interests with those of the companys shareholders and thereby promote
the long-term financial interest of the company and its subsidiaries, including the growth in value
of the companys equity and enhancement of long-term shareholder return. Outstanding, unexercised
award grants under the 1989 Plan and the 2001 Plan are
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43 |
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The Incentive Plan is incorporated by
reference to Annex H to Exelons Registration Statement on Form S-4 filed
February 10, 2005 in File No. 333-122704, which is included as Exhibit C
hereto. |
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44 |
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The Purchase Plan is incorporated by
reference to Annex I to Exelons Registration Statement on Form S-4 filed
February 10, 2005 in File No. 333-122704, which is included as Exhibit C
hereto. |
28
nonqualified stock options. Award grants under the 2004 Plan may be stock options, stock
appreciation rights, restricted stock, stock units, performance shares, cash awards or any
combination thereof.45
Public Service Enterprise Group Incorporated Stock Plan for Outside Directors (the
Directors Plan) 46
The Directors Plan provides annual grants (currently, 1,000 shares) of restricted stock
to outside directors for service on PSEGs Board of Directors. These shares of restricted stock
vest upon the directors retirement from the Board following his/her 70th birthday.
Public Service Enterprise Group Incorporated Directors Compensation Program (the Directors
Compensation Program) 47
Under the Directors Compensation Program, one-half of each outside directors annual
retainer (the total amount of which is currently $50,000) is paid in shares of PSEG common stock.
Public Service Enterprise Group Incorporated Deferred Compensation Program for Directors (the
Directors Deferred Plan) 48
PSEG outside directors who elect to defer a portion of their fees under the Directors
Deferred Plan may elect to have all or a portion of the amounts deferred treated as if they were
invested in PSEG common stock (Phantom Stock). Any shares distributed under the Directors
Deferred Plan are purchased on the open market for that purpose.
Public Service Enterprise Group Incorporated Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the
ESPP) 49
The ESPP allows all employees of PSEG and its participating subsidiaries to purchase
shares of PSEG common stock through payroll deduction at a 5% discount from market price.
6. Nonutility Money Pool
In the 2004 Financing Order, the Commission noted that Exelon requested authority to establish
the Nonutility Money Pool to be operated on the same terms and conditions as the Utility Money
Pool, except that Exelon funds made available to the Money Pools would be made available to the
Utility Money Pool first to the extent it is operated and needed and thereafter to the Nonutility
Money Pool. None of the Utility Subsidiaries will be a participant in the Nonutility Money Pool,
and no loans through the Nonutility
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45 |
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The 1989 Plan is incorporated by reference
to Exhibit 10 to the PSEG Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended
September 30, 2002, File No. 001-09120. The 2001 Plan is incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10a(7) to the PSEG Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year
ended December 31, 2000, File No. 001-09120. The 2004 Plan is incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10a(21) to the PSEG Annual Report on Form 10-K for the
year ended December 31, 2003, File No. 001-09120. |
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46 |
|
The Directors Plan is incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10a(17) to the PSEG Annual Report on Form 10-K for the
year ended December 31, 2002, File No. 001-09120. |
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47 |
|
The Directors Compensation Program is
incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10a(20) to the PSEG Annual Report on Form
10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002, File No. 001-09120. |
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48 |
|
The Directors Deferred Plan is incorporated
by reference to Exhibit 10a(1) to the PSEG Annual Report on Form 10-K for the
year ended December 31, 1999, File No. 001-09120. |
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49 |
|
The ESPP is incorporated by reference to the
PSEG Registration Statement on Form S-8, No. 333-106330 filed on June 20, 2003. |
29
Money Pool can be made to, and no borrowings through the Nonutility Money Pool can be made by,
Exelon, Ventures or Delivery.50
Furthermore, other Non-Utility Subsidiaries (i.e., Non-Utility Subsidiaries that are not
currently anticipated to participate in the Non-Utility Money Pool and such that are acquired or
formed in the future, collectively, Other Non-Utility Subsidiaries) may lend funds to and borrow
from the Non-Utility Money Pool, when established, without the need for additional authority from
the Commission. 51
7. Exelon Generation Tax-Exempt Financing
Exelon Generation may be able to incur lower financing costs by taking advantage of tax-exempt
financing where a governmental entity, such as a county or a state authority or agency, issues
securities and lends the proceeds to Exelon Generation or where Exelon Generation sells or leases
an undivided interest in one or more of its generating facilities and related assets to the
governmental entity and leases back or purchases the assets and operates such assets as before.
Exelon Generations payments to the governmental entity under such arrangements will provide
payments of principal, interest and any other amounts due under the bonds issued by the
governmental entity. In connection with such transactions, Exelon Generation seeks approval for
the sale, lease or other transfer and lease back, purchase or other operating arrangement of
generating and related assets that constitute utility assets under the Act. Such sale, lease or
other transfer and lease back, purchase or other operation arrangement would be solely for
financing purposes and would not affect the operation of the assets. This request does not seek to
increase the amount of authorized financing and any financing under this authority would have to
come within the limits approved in the 2004 Financing Order, as it may be modified herein, but is
solely to cover the technical disposition and acquisition of utility assets that is involved in
this type of financing.52
8. Pro Forma Financial Information
Exelon is a financially sound company, and following the Merger will remain sound, with
investment grade ratings from major rating agencies. The Exelon systems ratings as of December
31, 2004 from Standard & Poors Corporation (S&P), Moodys Investors Service (Moodys) and
Fitch Investors Service, Inc. (Fitch), as well as the ratings of PSE&G at that date, are set
forth in the following table. Exelon expects that following the Merger, it will maintain
investment grade ratings at Exelon and each of the Utility Subsidiaries with respect to each type
of obligation rated. 53
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Company and type of |
|
|
|
|
|
|
rating |
|
S&P |
|
Moodys |
|
Fitch |
Exelon |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Corporate
|
|
A-
|
|
NR
|
|
NR |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Unsecured
|
|
BBB+
|
|
Baa2
|
|
BBB+ |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Commercial Paper
|
|
A-2
|
|
P-2
|
|
F2 |
|
|
|
50 |
|
To the extent necessary, Applicants request
that the Commission release jurisdiction over the formation of the Nonutility
Money Pool. |
|
51 |
|
See NiSource, Inc., Holding Co. Act Release
No. 27789 (December 30, 2003). |
|
52 |
|
The Commission has approved this type of
financing on numerous occasions. E.g., Appalachian Power Co., Holding Co. Act
Release No. 27283 (November 27, 2000). |
|
53 |
|
The Indiana Company was created for
historical reasons and does not currently have any publicly issued securities
or securities ratings. |
30
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ComEd |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Corporate
|
|
A-
|
|
NR
|
|
NR |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Secured
|
|
A-
|
|
A3
|
|
A- |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Unsecured
|
|
BBB+
|
|
Baa1
|
|
BBB+ |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Preferred Stock/ Trust Securities
|
|
BBB
|
|
Baa3
|
|
BBB |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Commercial Paper
|
|
A-2
|
|
P-2
|
|
F2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Transitional Trust
Notes 54
|
|
AAA
|
|
Aaa
|
|
AAA |
|
|
|
54 |
|
These are obligations of a special purpose
subsidiary of ComEd. |
31
\
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Company and type of |
|
|
|
|
|
|
rating |
|
S&P |
|
Moodys |
|
Fitch |
PECO |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Corporate
|
|
A-
|
|
NR
|
|
NR |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Secured
|
|
A-
|
|
A2
|
|
A |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Unsecured
|
|
BBB+
|
|
A3
|
|
A- |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Preferred Stock
|
|
BBB
|
|
Baa2
|
|
BBB+ |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Trust Securities
|
|
BBB
|
|
Baa1
|
|
BBB+ |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Commercial Paper
|
|
A-2
|
|
P-1
|
|
F1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Transitional Trust
Notes 55
|
|
AAA
|
|
Aaa
|
|
AAA |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Exelon Generation |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Corporate
|
|
A-
|
|
Baa1
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Unsecured
|
|
A-
|
|
Baa1
|
|
BBB+ |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Commercial Paper
|
|
A-2
|
|
P-2
|
|
F2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
PSE&G |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Corporate
|
|
BBB
|
|
NR
|
|
NR |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Secured
|
|
A-
|
|
A3
|
|
A |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Unsecured
|
|
BBB-
|
|
Baa1
|
|
A- |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Preferred Stock
|
|
BB+
|
|
Baa3
|
|
BBB+ |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Commercial Paper
|
|
A-3
|
|
P-2
|
|
F-2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
PSE&G Transition Funding Notes
|
|
AAA
|
|
Aaa
|
|
AAA |
NR=not rated
Exelon also has a sound capital structure. At September 30, 2004, Exelons consolidated
common equity as a percentage of consolidated capitalization was 40.18%. 56
Details regarding Exelons consolidated capitalization are shown in the table in Item 1.B.4. above.
Following the Merger, Exelon will
|
|
|
55 |
|
These are obligations of a special purpose
subsidiary of PECO. |
|
56 |
|
Consolidated capitalization includes
securitization obligations. If securitization obligations were excluded in the
calculation, Exelons equity component of consolidated capitalization would be
50.10% at September 30, 2004. |
32
continue to have sound capitalization. The following shows the pro forma post-Merger Exelon
consolidated capitalization as of September 30, 2004.
EXELON CORPORATION
PRO FORMA CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED CAPITAL STRUCTURE
(Dollars in Millions)
As of September 30, 2004
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Exelon |
|
|
Post-Merger Pro Forma |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Capital |
|
|
|
|
|
Capital |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Structure |
|
|
|
|
|
Structure |
|
|
|
Amount |
|
|
Percentage |
|
Amount |
|
|
Percentage |
|
Common Equity (includes
Retained Earnings of
$3,256) |
|
$ |
9,546 |
|
|
|
40.18 |
% |
|
$ |
22,189 |
|
|
|
42.89 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Minority Interest |
|
|
53 |
|
|
|
0.22 |
% |
|
|
53 |
|
|
|
0.10 |
% |
Preferred and Preference
Stock |
|
|
632 |
|
|
|
2.66 |
% |
|
|
1,913 |
|
|
|
3.70 |
% |
Securitization Obligations |
|
|
4,978 |
|
|
|
20.95 |
% |
|
|
7,449 |
|
|
|
14.40 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Long-Term Debt |
|
|
7,814 |
|
|
|
32.89 |
% |
|
|
18,250 |
|
|
|
35.27 |
% |
Current Maturities of
Long-Term Debt |
|
|
410 |
|
|
|
1.73 |
% |
|
|
901 |
|
|
|
1.74 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Long-Term Debt |
|
|
8,224 |
|
|
|
34.62 |
% |
|
|
19,151 |
|
|
|
37.01 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Short-Term Debt |
|
|
325 |
|
|
|
1.37 |
% |
|
|
985 |
|
|
|
1.90 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Capital Structure |
|
$ |
23,758 |
|
|
|
100.00 |
% |
|
$ |
51,740 |
|
|
|
100.00 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
As part of the Exelon Generation Restructuring, PSEG Power, PSEG Nuclear, PSEG Fossil and PSEG
ER&T will become a part of Exelon Generation, which will continue to have a strong capitalization
following those transactions. As a result of the accounting for the Merger, however, the retained
earnings of the PSEG subsidiaries combining with Exelon Generation will be eliminated.
Accordingly, as noted above, Applicants request that Exelon Generation be authorized to pay
dividends out of capital to the extent of the pre-Merger retained earnings of PSEG Power, PSEG
Nuclear, PSEG Fossil and PSEG ER&T.
33
The following shows the pro forma post-Merger Exelon Generation consolidated capitalization as
of September 30, 2004.
EXELON GENERATION
PRO FORMA CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED CAPITAL STRUCTURE
(Dollars in Millions)
As of September 30, 2004
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Exelon Generation |
|
|
Post-Merger Pro Forma |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Capital |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Capital |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Structure |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Structure |
|
|
|
Amount |
|
|
Percentage |
|
|
Amount |
|
|
Percentage |
|
Common Equity
(includes
Undistributed Earnings
of $1,031) |
|
$ |
3,330 |
|
|
|
56.54 |
% |
|
$ |
10,222 |
|
|
|
62.12 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Minority Interest |
|
|
55 |
|
|
|
0.93 |
% |
|
|
55 |
|
|
|
0.33 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Long-Term Debt |
|
|
2,444 |
|
|
|
41.49 |
% |
|
|
6,083 |
|
|
|
36.97 |
% |
Current Maturities of
Long-Term Debt |
|
|
61 |
|
|
|
1.04 |
% |
|
|
95 |
|
|
|
0.58 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Long-Term Debt |
|
|
2,505 |
|
|
|
42.53 |
|
|
|
6,178 |
|
|
|
37.55 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Short-Term Debt |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Capital Structure |
|
$ |
5,890 |
|
|
|
100.00 |
% |
|
$ |
16,455 |
|
|
|
100.00 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
PSE&G has a sound capital structure, with capitalization at December 31, 2004 as follows:
PUBLIC SERVICE ELECTRIC AND GAS COMPANY
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED CAPITAL STRUCTURE
(Dollars in Millions)
As of December 31, 2004
Consolidated Capitalization
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Capital Structure |
|
|
|
Amount |
|
|
Percentage |
|
Common Equity (includes Retained
Earnings of $656) |
|
$ |
2,700 |
|
|
|
33.61 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Preferred and Preference Stock |
|
|
80 |
|
|
|
1.00 |
% |
Securitization Obligations |
|
|
2,085 |
|
|
|
25.96 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Long-Term Debt |
|
|
2,938 |
|
|
|
36.57 |
% |
Current Maturities of Long-Term
Debt |
|
|
125 |
|
|
|
1.56 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Long-Term Debt |
|
|
3,063 |
|
|
|
38.13 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Short-Term Debt |
|
|
105 |
|
|
|
1.30 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Capital Structure |
|
$ |
8,033 |
|
|
|
100.00 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
34
The following shows the pro forma post-Merger PSE&G consolidated capitalization as of
September 30, 2004.
PUBLIC SERVICE ELECTRIC AND GAS COMPANY
PRO FORMA CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED CAPITAL STRUCTURE
(Dollars in Millions)
As of September 30, 2004
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
PSE&G |
|
|
Post-Merger Pro Forma |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Capital |
|
|
|
|
|
Capital |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Structure |
|
|
|
|
|
Structure |
|
|
|
Amount |
|
|
Percentage |
|
Amount |
|
|
Percentage |
|
Common Equity
(includes Retained
Earnings of $592) |
|
$ |
2,637 |
|
|
|
31.85 |
% |
|
$ |
6,000 |
|
|
|
50.04 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Preferred and
Preference Stock |
|
|
80 |
|
|
|
0.97 |
% |
|
|
80 |
|
|
|
0.67 |
% |
Securitization |
|
|
2,124 |
|
|
|
25.65 |
% |
|
|
2,299 |
|
|
|
19.17 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Long-Term Debt |
|
|
2,936 |
|
|
|
35.46 |
% |
|
|
3,053 |
|
|
|
25.46 |
% |
Current Maturities of
Long-Term Debt |
|
|
218 |
|
|
|
2.63 |
% |
|
|
273 |
|
|
|
2.28 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Long-Term Debt |
|
|
3,154 |
|
|
|
38.09 |
% |
|
|
3,326 |
|
|
|
27.74 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Short-Term Debt |
|
|
285 |
|
|
|
3.44 |
% |
|
|
285 |
|
|
|
2.38 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Capital Structure |
|
$ |
8,280 |
|
|
|
100.00 |
% |
|
$ |
11,990 |
|
|
|
100.00 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Item 2. Fees, Commissions And Expenses.
The fees, commissions and expenses to be paid or incurred, directly or indirectly, in
connection with the Merger, including the solicitation of proxies, registration of securities of
Exelon under the Securities Act of 1933, and other related matters, are estimated to be
approximately $70 million, as discussed in Item 3.B.2.
Item 3. Applicable Statutory Provisions.
A. Applicable Provisions.
Sections 6(a), 7, 8, 9, 10, 11(b)(1), 11(e), 12, 13, 32 and 33 of the Act and the rules
thereunder are considered applicable to the proposed transactions.
To the extent that the proposed transactions are considered by the Commission to require
authorizations, exemption or approval under any section of the Act or the rules and regulations
thereunder other than those set forth above, request for such authorization, exemption or approval
is hereby made.
B. Section 10 of the Act.
Section 10(b) provides that, if the requirements of Section 10(f) are satisfied, the
Commission shall approve an acquisition under Section 9(a) unless the Commission finds that:
35
(i) such acquisition will tend towards interlocking relations or the concentration of control
of public utility companies, of a kind or to an extent detrimental to the public interest or the
interests of investors or consumers;
(ii) in case of the acquisition of securities or utility assets, the consideration, including
all fees, commissions, and other remuneration, to whomsoever paid, to be given, directly or
indirectly, in connection with such acquisition is not reasonable or does not bear a fair relation
to the sums invested in or the earning capacity of the utility assets to be acquired or the utility
assets underlying the securities to be acquired; or
(iii) such acquisition will unduly complicate the capital structure of the holding-company
system of the applicant or will be detrimental to the public interest or the interests of investors
or consumers or the proper functioning of such holding-company system.
Section 10(c) of the Act provides that, notwithstanding the provisions of Section 10(b), the
Commission shall not approve:
(i) an acquisition of securities or utility assets, or of any other interest, which is
unlawful under the provisions of Section 8 or is detrimental to the carrying out of the provisions
of Section 11; or
(ii) the acquisition of securities or utility assets of a public utility or holding company
unless the Commission finds that such acquisition will serve the public interest by tending towards
the economical and the efficient development of an integrated public utility system.
As set forth more fully below, the Merger complies with all of the applicable provisions of
Section 10 of the Act and should be approved by the Commission.
1. Section 10(b)(1).
The standards of Section 10(b)(1) are satisfied because the proposed Merger will not tend
towards interlocking relations or the concentration of control of public utility companies, of a
kind or to an extent detrimental to the public interest or the interests of investors or
consumers. By its nature, any merger results in new links between previously unrelated companies.
The Commission has recognized, however, that such interlocking relationships are permissible in
the interest of efficiencies and economies. See Northeast Utilities, 50 S.E.C. 427, 443 (1990), as
modified, 50 S.E.C. 511 (1991), affd sub nom. City of Holyoke v. SEC, 972 F.2d 358 (D.C. Cir.
1992) (finding that interlocking relationships are necessary to integrate the two merging
entities). The links that will be established as a result of the Merger are not the types of
interlocking relationships targeted by Section 10(b)(1), which was primarily aimed at preventing
uneconomical combinations.57 In contrast, the Merger will achieve various operating
synergies. Among other things, the PSEG subsidiaries will enter into contractual arrangements with
other Exelon system companies under which various administrative and management services will be
provided. Because substantial benefits will accrue to the public, investors and consumers from the
affiliation of Exelon and PSEG, whatever interlocking relationships may arise from the combination
are not detrimental.
Under the Section 10(b)(1) concentration of control test, the Commission considers various
factors, including the size of the resulting system and the competitive effects of the
acquisition. Entergy Corp., Holding Co. Act Release No. 25952 (Dec. 17, 1993), request for
reconsideration denied, Holding Co. Act Release No. 26037 (Apr. 28, 1994), remanded sub nom. Cajun
Elec. Power Coop. Inc. v. SEC, 1994 WL 704047 (D.C. Cir. Nov. 16, 1994) on remand, Entergy Corp.,
Holding Co. Act Release No. 26410 (Nov. 17, 1995) (citations omitted). These factors are discussed
below.
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57 |
|
See Section 1(b)(4) of the Act (finding that
the public interest and interests of consumers and investors are adversely
affected when the growth and extension of holding companies bears no relation
to the economy of management and operation or the integration and coordination
of related operating properties . . .). |
36
(a) Size.
As the Commission has recognized, Section 10(b)(1) does not impose any precise limits on
holding company growth. American Electric Power Company, Inc., 46 S.E.C. 1299, 1307 (1978)
(AEP). The Commission has rejected a mechanical size analysis under Section 10(b)(1) in favor of
assessing the size of the resulting system as it relates to the efficiencies and economies that can
be achieved through the integration and coordination of the new systems utility operations.
Entergy, supra (rejecting conclusory assertions that the combined systems would be too large to
satisfy [Section 10(b)(1)] and finding that merger created a large system, but not one that
exceeds the economies of scale of current electrical generation and transmission technology.).
Section 10(b)(1) allows the Commission to exercise its best judgment as to the maximum size of a
holding company in a particular area, considering the state of the art and the area or region
affected. AEP, supra. The Merger will not create a huge, complex and irrational system but,
rather, will afford the opportunity to achieve economies of scale and efficiencies for the benefit
of investors and consumers.
Post-Merger, Exelon will serve approximately 7 million electric customers and 2 million gas
customers located primarily in three states. As of September 30, 2004, the combined consolidated
assets of Exelon and PSEG totaled approximately $81 billion and, for the nine months ended
September 30, 2004, combined consolidated operating revenues totaled approximately $19 billion. As
of December 31, 2004, the combined owned generating capacity of Exelon and PSEG was approximately
40,363 MW.
The following table shows Exelons relative size as compared to other registered systems in
terms of assets, operating revenues and customers: 58
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U.S. Electric |
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Total Assets |
|
Operating Revenues |
|
Customers |
System |
|
($ Millions) |
|
($ Millions) |
|
(Thousands) |
E.ON AG |
|
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140,897 |
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58,405 |
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1,208 |
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National Grid Transco plc |
|
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57,021 |
|
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12,531 |
|
|
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3,750 |
|
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|
Dominion Resources Inc. |
|
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44,186 |
|
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12,078 |
|
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3,900 |
|
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American Electric Power
Co. Inc. |
|
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36,743 |
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14,545 |
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5,013 |
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Southern Company |
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35,045 |
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11,251 |
|
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4,136 |
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Exelon (pro forma) |
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80,865 |
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25,863 |
59 |
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7,300 |
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In AEP, the Commission noted that, although the framers of the Act were concerned about the
evils of bigness, they were also aware that the combination of isolated local utilities into an
integrated system afforded opportunities for economies of scale, the elimination of duplicate
facilities and activities, the sharing of production capacity and reserves and generally more
efficient operations... [and] [t]hey wished to preserve these opportunities. AEP, 46 S.E.C. at
1309. By virtue of the Merger, Exelon will be in a position to realize precisely these types of
benefits. Among other things, the Merger is expected to yield operating cost savings, corporate
and administrative savings and purchasing savings, among others. These expected economies and
efficiencies from the combined utility operations are described in greater detail in Item 3.B.5
below.
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58 |
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Data derived from U.S. Securities and
Exchange Commission, Financial and Corporate Report, Holding Companies
Registered under the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935 as of June 1,
2004 (data provided is as of December 31, 2003); Exelon data from Unaudited Pro
Forma Combined Condensed Financial Statements included in S-4 Registration
Statement filed as Exhibit C hereto. |
|
59 |
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Nine months ended September 30, 2004,
Post-Merger Pro Forma annualized. |
37
Nevertheless, the Generation Divestiture will reduce the size of the post-Merger Exelon by
6,600 MW further supporting the conclusion that the Generation Divestiture is necessary to
establish that the Merger complies with the standards of the Act for purposes of making the
findings necessary to satisfy Section 1081 of the Code.
(b) Concentration of Control.
The Commissions analysis under Section 10(b)(1) also includes a consideration of federal
antitrust policies.
The proposed Merger will increase the total capacity of generation resources owned or
controlled by Exelon. To ensure that the combined company does not have market power in any
relevant market, Exelon and PSEG have proposed a comprehensive market power mitigation plan
designed to address in full FERCs requirements for competitive markets. As part of the plan, the
companies have proposed the Generation Divestiture as described in Item 1.H above.
The potential competitive concerns are being considered by other regulators, including the
FERC and the Department of Justice. On July 1, 2005, the FERC issued the FERC Merger Order. In
authorizing the Merger, the FERC began by stating that the FERC Merger Order benefits customers
because it ensures that the transaction [i.e., the Merger as proposed], which includes mitigation
of market effects through very substantial divestiture of generation, is consistent with the public
interest as required by section 203 of the Federal Power Act. Among other things, the FERC Merger
Order accepted the Mitigation Plan albeit subject to possible further enhancement:
[A]t the end of the divestiture process Applicants must make a
compliance filing in this docket and we will review the results to
be sure that concentration in the affected markets is close to
pre-merger levels. If the analysis shows that the mergers harm
to competition has not been sufficiently mitigated, we will
require additional mitigation at that time (FERC Merger Order,
paragraph 128.)
Pursuant to the HSR Act, Exelon and PSEG have filed with the Antitrust Division Premerger
Notification and Report Forms. See 16 C.F.R. Parts 801 through 803. The HSR Act prohibits
consummation of the Merger until the statutory waiting period has expired or been terminated. The
United States Department of Justice (DOJ) is continuing its review of potential market power
issues associated with the Merger. The Applicants have responded to all outstanding DOJ requests
for information.
In these circumstances, the Commission has found, and the courts have agreed, that it is
appropriate for the Commission to look to the FERCs expertise in operating issues, in determining
that the standards of Section 10(b)(1) are met. In this regard, the Court of Appeals for the D.C.
Circuit has found:
[W]hen the SEC and another regulatory agency both have
jurisdiction over a particular transaction, the SEC may
watchfully defer[] to the proceedings held before and the
result reached by that other agency.
Madison Gas & Electric Co. v. SEC, 168 F.3d 1337, 1341-42 (D.C. 1999), citing City of Holyoke Gas &
Electric Department v. SEC, 972 F.2d 358 (D.C. Cir. 1992) (dismissing challenge to order approving
merger that asserted Commission could not rely on FERC and state review of competitive effects).
Consistent with the foregoing, the Division in its 1995 Report on the Regulation of Public Utility
Holding Companies (the 1995 Report) recommended that the SEC avoid duplicative review of
acquisitions and, where possible, defer to the work of other regulators in reviewing acquisitions.
1995 Report at 66.
Madison Gas and City of Holyoke provide that the Commission has an obligation under section
10(b(1) to ensure that a merger will not have possible anti-competitive effects. The Commission
may not approve a merger that would result in unmitigated anti-competitive effects. The Commission
has recognized that FERC has greater expertise with operations issues and is better capable of
crafting mitigation conditions that will alleviate the risk of anti-competitive results from a
merger. Northeast
38
Utilities, Holding Co, Act Release No. 25221 (Dec. 21, 1990), as modified, Holding Co. Act Release
No. 25273 (Mar. 15, 1991), affd sub nom. City of Holyoke v. SEC, 972 F.2d 358 (D.C. Cir. 1992).
This recognition of and deferral to FERC expertise has been expressly approved by the courts in
Madison Gas and City Holyoke. Thus, the Commission watchfully defers to the FERC and, in effect,
imposes the same conditions to its approval of a merger as does FERC. The Commission need not
institute duplicate proceedings to reach the same result that FERC has already reached.
Since FERC has ruled that the Merger would not satisfy anti-competitive concerns without the
Generation Divestiture, the Commission may (and should) come to the same conclusion and find that
it cannot approve the Merger without the Generation Divestiture, including any subsequent
divestiture ordered by FERC as described above. Thus, the Commission should
condition its order in the case, as it conditioned its order in Northeast Utilities, Holding Co.
Act Release No 25221 (Dec. 21, 1990), as modified, Holding Co. Act Release No. 25273 (Mar. 15,
1991), affd sub nom. City of Holyoke v. SEC, 972 F.2d 358 (D.C. Cir. 1992), on a requirement that
Applicants must, under the Act, complete the Generation Divesture in accordance with the FERC
Merger Order and any subsequent order of FERC. Because the Generation Divestiture is thus
necessary under the Act, it is appropriate for the Commission to make the Code Section 1081
findings described herein.
2. Section 10(b)(2).
Section 10(b)(2) of the Act precludes approval of an acquisition if the consideration to be
paid in connection with the Merger, including all fees, commissions and other remuneration, is not
reasonable or does not bear a fair relation to the sums invested in or the earning capacity of the
utility assets to be acquired or the utility assets underlying the securities to be acquired. The
Commission has found persuasive evidence that the standards of Section 10(b)(2) are satisfied
where, as here, the agreed upon consideration for an acquisition is the result of arms-length
negotiations between the managements of the companies involved, supported by an opinion of a
financial advisor. See Entergy Corp., 51 S.E.C. 869, 879 (1993); Southern Company, Holding Co. Act
Release No. 24579 (Feb. 12, 1988).
The consideration paid in the Merger is reasonable for several reasons.
First, the former PSEG shareholders will hold about 32% and the Exelon shareholders will hold
approximately 68% of the shares of Exelon following the Merger.
Second, as explained in the joint proxy statement/prospectus (included in Exhibit C hereto)
(the Joint Proxy Statement), the historical price data for Exelon and PSEG common stock provide
support for the consideration of 1.225 shares of Exelon common stock for each share of PSEG common
stock.
Third, the merger consideration is the product of extensive and vigorous arms-length
negotiations between Exelon and PSEG. These negotiations were preceded by extensive due diligence,
analysis and evaluation of the assets, liabilities and business prospects of each of the respective
companies. This process is described in Background of the Merger in the Joint Proxy Statement.
As recognized by the Commission in Ohio Power Co., Holding Co. Act Release No. 16753 (June 8,
1970), prices arrived at through arms-length negotiations are particularly persuasive evidence that
Section 10(b)(2) is satisfied.
Fourth, nationally recognized independent investment bankers have reviewed extensive
information concerning Exelon and PSEG, analyzed the merger consideration employing a variety of
valuation methodologies, and ultimately opined that the merger consideration is fair to the
respective holders of Exelon common stock and PSEG common stock. The investment bankers analyses
are described in detail and their opinions are included in full in the Joint Proxy Statement. The
assistance of independent consultants in setting consideration has been recognized by the
Commission as evidence that the requirements of Section 10(b)(2) have been met.
Finally,
the share issuance has been submitted for approval by the Exelon shareholders and the Merger
for approval by the PSEG shareholders, providing additional assurance that the prices paid are
reasonable.
39
Another consideration under Section 10(b)(2) is the overall fees, commissions and expenses to
be incurred in connection with the Merger. Exelon believes that the Merger costs will be
reasonable and fair in light of the size and complexity of the proposed Merger, and that the
anticipated benefits of the Merger to the public, investors and consumers. See, e.g., Entergy
Corp., 51 S.E.C. at 881, n. 63 (fees and expenses of $38 million, representing approximately 2% of
the value of the consideration paid to the shareholders of Gulf States Utilities); Northeast
Utilities, Holding Co. Act Release No. 25548 (June 3, 1992) (fees and expenses of approximately 2%
of the value of the assets to be acquired); and American Electric Power Company, Inc., Holding
Company Act Release No. 27186 (June 14, 2000) at n. 40 (total fees, commissions and expenses of
approximately $72.7 million, representing 1.1% of the value of the total consideration paid by
American Electric Power to the shareholders of Central and South West Corp.).
The total expenses of the Merger
are approximately $70 million ($41 million for Exelon and
$55 million for PSEG) which constitute about one half of one percent of the value of the consideration
paid by Exelon in the Merger. 60
Pursuant to an engagement letter dated October 26, 2004, Exelon has agreed to pay
JPMorgan a fee of $15 million in consideration for its services as financial advisor, $5 million of
which was paid following the public announcement of the execution of the Merger Agreement, $5
million of which was payable upon approval of the issuance of shares of Exelon common stock as
contemplated by the Merger Agreement by Exelon shareholders and
$5 million of which was payable upon
completion of the Merger. Pursuant to an engagement letter dated November 5, 2004, Exelon has
agreed to pay Lehman Brothers a fee of $15 million in consideration for its services as financial
advisor, $5 million of which was due upon the public announcement of the execution of the Merger
Agreement, $5 million of which was payable upon approval of the issuance of shares of Exelon common
stock as contemplated by the Merger Agreement by Exelon shareholders and $5 million of which is
payable upon completion of the Merger.
Pursuant to an engagement letter dated November 8, 2004, PSEG has agreed to pay Morgan Stanley
a fee of $20 million in consideration for its services as financial advisor, $5 million of which
was paid following the public announcement of the execution of the Merger Agreement, $5 million of
which was payable upon PSEG shareholder approval of the Merger Agreement and $10 million of which is
payable upon completion of the Merger.
3. Section 10(b)(3).
Section 10(b)(3) requires the Commission to determine whether the Merger will unduly
complicate the capital structure or be detrimental to the public interest or the interest of
investors or consumers or the proper functioning of the Exelon system.
The capital structure of the Exelon system will not change materially as a result of the
Merger. In the Merger, Exelon will acquire 100% of the issued and outstanding common stock of
PSE&G. Hence, the Merger will not create any publicly-held minority stock interest in the voting
securities of any public utility company. The outstanding debt securities and preferred stock of
PSE&G will also remain as outstanding obligations of PSE&G and will not be recourse to Exelon or
any other company in the Exelon system.
The capital structures of Exelon and PSEG and the pro forma consolidated capital structure of
Exelon are set forth in Item 1 hereof.
As those tables show, Exelons pro forma consolidated common equity to total capitalization
ratio of 42.89% will comfortably exceed the traditionally acceptable 30% level. See Northeast
Utilities, 50
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60 |
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The value of the consideration, $12,629
million, is taken from the pro forma financial statements in the Joint Proxy
Statement. |
40
S.E.C. at 440, n. 47. Common equity as a percentage of capitalization of each of the Utility
Subsidiaries, other than PECO, is and will remain well over 30%.61
Section 10(b)(3) also requires the Commission to determine whether the proposed combination
will be detrimental to the public interest, the interests of investors or consumers or the proper
functioning of the combined Exelon system. The proposed combination of Exelon and PSEG is entirely
consistent with the proper functioning of a registered holding company system. Exelons and PSEGs
electric utility operations are contiguous and interconnected and will be operated as a single
interconnected and coordinated electric utility system following the Merger. Likewise, Exelons
existing gas utility operations and PSE&Gs gas operations, which serve Pennsylvania and New
Jersey, will be an integrated gas utility system as described infra following the Merger.
The Merger will result in substantial, and otherwise unavailable, savings and benefits to the
public and to consumers and investors of both companies. Moreover, the Merger is subject to review
by the PAPUC and the NJBPU, as well as the FERC, and notice has been given to the ICC, all of which
ensures that the interests of customers will be adequately protected. For these reasons, Exelon
believes that the Merger will be in the public interest and the interest of investors and consumers
and will not be detrimental to the proper functioning of the resulting holding company system.
4. Section 10(c)(1).
(a) The Merger Will be Lawful Under Section
8.
Section 10(c)(1) first requires that the Merger be lawful under Section 8. That section was
intended to prevent holding companies, by the use of separate subsidiaries, from circumventing
state restrictions on common ownership of gas and electric operations. The Merger will not result
in any new situation of common ownership of so-called combination systems within a given state.
PSE&G already provides electric and gas service in overlapping areas of New Jersey. Moreover, the
NJBPU has jurisdiction over the Merger. Accordingly, the Merger does not raise any issue under
Section 8.
(b) The Merger Will Not be Detrimental to
Carrying Out the Provisions of Section 11.
Section 10(c)(1) also requires that the Merger not be detrimental to the carrying out of the
provisions of section 11. Section 11(b)(1), in turn, directs the Commission generally to limit a
registered holding company to a single integrated public utility system, either electric or gas.
An exception to this requirement, as discussed below, is provided in Section 11(b)(1)(A) (C) (the
ABC clauses), which permits a registered holding company to retain one or more additional (i.e.,
secondary) integrated public utility systems if the system satisfies the criteria of the ABC
clauses.
In the 2000 Merger Order, the Commission determined that Exelons primary system, comprised of
the electric utility facilities of ComEd and PECO, constitutes an integrated electric utility
system; and that the gas utility properties of PECO constitute an integrated gas utility system
that is retainable under the standards of the ABC clauses. At issue in this proceeding is whether
Exelons acquisition of PSE&G, which operates as both an electric and gas utility in New Jersey,
will result in a system that is detrimental to the carrying out of the provisions of section 11.
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61 |
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As noted in the 2004 Financing Order, PECO
has common equity of less than 30% when including securitization and the
effects of a receivable contribution (as described in File No. 70-10189) but
Exelon anticipates that PECOs common equity ratio will continue to improve and
that PECO will reach a level of common equity of at least 30% of capitalization
by December 31, 2010 (at which time all securitization bonds are expected to be
retired and therefore will not be a consideration in the calculation). At
December 31, 2004, PECOs common equity was 21% of total capitalization
calculated in accordance with GAAP and was 66% excluding securitization and the
effects of the receivable contribution. |
41
As explained more fully below, the combination of the electric utility operations of the
Utility Subsidiaries will result in a single, integrated electric utility system. In addition, the
combination of PSE&Gs gas utility properties with those of PECO will comprise an integrated gas
utility system that may be retained by Exelon as an additional system under the ABC clauses of
Section 11(b)(1).
These standards are addressed below.
(i) Integration of Electric Operations.
The threshold question is whether the electric utility properties of the Utility Subsidiaries
will form a single integrated public utility system, which, as applied to electric utility
companies, is defined in Section 2(a)(29)(A) to mean:
a system consisting of one or more units of generating plants
and/or transmission lines and/or distributing facilities, whose
utility assets, whether owned by one or more electric utility
companies, are physically interconnected or capable of physical
interconnection and which under normal conditions may be
economically operated as a single interconnected and coordinated
system confined in its operations to a single area or region, in
one or more States, not so large as to impair (considering the
state of the art and the area or region affected) the advantages
of localized management, efficient operation, and the
effectiveness of regulation.
The Commission has interpreted this provision to establish four separate requirements for
integration, as applied to an electric system: physical interconnection; coordination; limitation
to a single area or region; and no impairment of localized management, efficient operation, and the
effectiveness of regulation. See National Rural Electric Cooperative Association v. Securities and
Exchange Commission, 276 F.3d 609 at 611 (D.C. Cir. 2002). The combined electric utility
operations will satisfy each of these tests.
A. Interconnection
The first requirement for an integrated electric utility system is that the electric
generation and/or transmission and/or distribution facilities comprising the system be physically
interconnected or capable of physical interconnection. As found by the Commission in the PJM
Order, electric properties within PJM are physically interconnected through PJM. In addition,
the electric facilities and retail service areas of PSE&G and the Exelon Utility Subsidiaries are
adjacent and their facilities are interconnected at numerous points (see Exhibit E-1). Under
traditional analysis, this fact alone satisfies the interconnection requirement. See e.g., Energy
East, Holding Company Act Release No. 27546 (June 27, 2002).
B. Coordination.
Historically, the Commission has interpreted the requirement that an integrated electric
system be economically operated under normal conditions as a single interconnected and coordinated
system to refer to the physical operation of utility assets as a system in which, among other
things, the generation and/or flow of current within the system may be centrally controlled and
allocated as need or economy directs. See, e.g., Conectiv, Inc., Holding Co. Act Release No.
26832 (Feb. 25, 1998), citing The North American Company, 11 S.E.C. 194, 242 (1942), affd, 133
F.2d 148 (2d Cir. 1943), affd on constitutional issues, 327 U.S. 686 (1946). The Commission has
noted that, through this standard, Congress intended that the utility properties be so connected
and operated that there is coordination among all parts, and that those parts bear an integral
operating relationship to one another. See Cities Service Co., 14 S.E.C. 28 at 55 (1943).
Traditionally, the most obvious indicia of coordinated operations was the ability to jointly
dispatch all system generating units automatically on an economic basis in order to achieve the
lowest overall cost of electricity. As noted in the PJM Order, the facilities of PJM members are
subject to the control of a single operator, PJM: As the single control operator, PJM exercises
functional control, including centralized dispatch of generation, over a contiguous, interconnected
electric transmission system that encompasses the operations of its members, including PECO and
ComEd. Of course, PSE&G is also a member of PJM and accordingly the analysis of the PJM Order
applies equally to the post-Merger Exelon system.
42
Under Section 2(a)(29)(A), the Commission must also find that the resulting interconnected and
coordinated system may be economically operated. This calls for a determination that coordinated
operation of the combined companys facilities is likely to produce economies and efficiencies.
The question of whether a combined system will be economically operated under Section 10(c)(2) and
Section 2(a)(29)(A) was addressed by the U.S. Court of Appeals in Madison Gas and Electric Company
v. SEC, 168 F.3d 1337 (D.C. Cir. 1999). In that case, the court determined that in analyzing
whether a system will be economically coordinated, the focus must be on whether the acquisition as
a whole will tend toward efficiency and economy. Id. at 1341. As discussed below, the Merger
will meet this standard.
In short, all aspects of the combined system will be centrally directed and efficiently
planned and coordinated. As with other utility combinations approved by the Commission, the
combined system will be capable of being economically operated as a single interconnected and
coordinated system as demonstrated by the variety of means through which its operations will be
coordinated and the efficiencies and economies expected to be realized by the proposed Merger.
C. Single Area or Region.
As required by Section 2(a)(29)(A), the electric utility operations of Exelon following the
Merger will be confined to a single area or region in one or more States, all within PJM. See,
e.g., Pepco Holding, Inc., Holding Co. Act Release No. 27553 (July 24, 2002) (the high degree of
operational coordination and energy trading that occurs within the PJM RTO demonstrate that the
mid-Atlantic U.S. is a single area or region in both operational and economic terms). The
Commission should find, based on the PJM Order and the facts presented herein, that the territories
of ComEd, PECO and PSE&G also constitute a single area or region in both operational and economic
terms.
D. Size.
The final clause of Section 2(a)(29)(A) requires the Commission to look to the size of the
combined system (considering the state of the art and the area or region affected) and its effect
upon localized management, efficient operation, and the effectiveness of regulation. In the
instant matter, these standards are easily met.
Size A core concept in the definition of an integrated public-utility system is that a
system not be so large as to impair (considering the state of the art and the area or region
affected) ... the effectiveness of regulation, section 2(a)(29)(A). As explained in greater detail
in the FERC Merger proceedings, the Merger would, absent mitigation measures, raise significant
market power issues. Market power is the ability of a firm to profitably maintain prices above
competitive levels for a significant period of time. An undue concentration of market power could
impair effective regulation by FERC and the states. Market power analysis of a merger proposal
examines whether or not a merger would cause either a material increase in the merging firms
market power or a significant reduction in the competitiveness of relevant markets. The focus of
such analysis is on the effects of the merger, which means that the merger analysis examines the
business areas in which the merging firms are competitors. This is referred to as the horizontal
market power assessment. Under FERC procedures and policies for analyzing and assessing
horizontal market power , the focus is on market share (measured in controlled megawatts) as a
percentage of total in-market megawatts. In its Revised Filing Requirements, the FERC established
an analytic approach (the so-called Appendix A screen analysis) to the assessment of market power
impacts from proposed public utility mergers. Exelon and PSEG have proposed the Generation
Divestiture as a means of mitigating the market power effects of the Merger.
Mitigation of anti-competitive effects on the efficient operation of energy markets is a
central goal of energy regulatory initiatives by both federal and state regulators (including
Illinois, Pennsylvania and New Jersey). In the context of the proposed Merger, the Generation
Divestiture is targeted to enhance (and not just leave unimpaired) the effectiveness of regulation.
The FERC Merger Order created the possibility of additional divestitures in the event that,
notwithstanding the Generation Divestiture, the FERC determines that market power issues continue
to exist. Whether it is the Generation Divestiture alone, or the Generation Divestiture followed
by further FERC-ordered divestitures, the purpose and effect of the divestiture will be to
right-size the generation fleet of the combined companies to enhance the
43
effectiveness of regulation as required by Section 11(b)(1) . The Commission can,
and should, condition its approval of the Merger on Applicants compliance with the FERC Merger
Order and any subsequent divestitures ordered by FERC in order to comply with market power issues
in consequence of the Merger .62
Localized Management Although PSE&G will necessarily come under new holding company
management as a result of the Merger, it will continue to exist as a separate legal entity. PSE&G
will continue to be headquartered in Newark, and the utility will continue to operate through
regional offices with local service centers and line crews available to respond to customers
needs.
This operational structure, which is similar to that currently in place at ComEd and PECO,
will permit the local, district and regional management teams of PSE&G to budget for operation of
the electric distribution system and to schedule work forces in order to provide the same (or
better) quality of service to customers of PSE&G. In short, PSE&G will continue to be managed on a
day-to-day basis at a local level, particularly in areas that must be responsive to local needs.
Accordingly, the advantages of localized management will not be impaired.
Efficient Operation As discussed below in the analysis of Section 10(c)(2), the Merger will
result in greater economies and efficiencies. Operations will be more efficiently performed on a
centralized basis because of economies of scale, standardized operating and maintenance practices
and closer coordination of system-wide matters.
Effective Regulation The Merger will not impair the effectiveness of regulation at either
the state or federal level. PSE&G will continue to be regulated by the NJBPU with respect to
retail rates, service, securities issuances and other matters, and by FERC with respect to
interstate electric sales for resale and transmission services.
(ii) Integration of Gas Operations.
The gas utility properties of PSE&G, when added to those owned by PECO, will form an
integrated gas utility system, which is defined in Section 2(a)(29)(B) to mean:
a system consisting of one or more gas utility companies which are
so located and related that substantial economies may be
effectuated by being operated as a single coordinated system
confined in its operations to a single area or region, in one or
more States, not so large as to impair (considering the state of
the art and the area or region affected) the advantages of
localized management, efficient operation, and the effectiveness
of regulation: provided, that gas utility companies deriving
natural gas from a common source of supply may be deemed to be
included in a single area or region. 63
Thus, the definition of an integrated gas utility system has three distinct parts, each of
which will be satisfied in this case.
A. Coordination.
In order to find coordination among the gas utility companies in the same holding company
system, the Commission has historically focused primarily on the operating economies that may be
effectuated through coordinated management of gas supply portfolios (i.e., gas purchase
arrangements,
|
|
|
62 |
|
Cf. Northeast Utilities,
Holding Co. Act Release No. 25273 (March 15, 1991) (conditioning Commisison
approval upon receipt of final FERC order under Section 203 of the Federal
Power Act). |
|
63 |
|
In the alternative, the Commission could
find that each of the PECO and PSE&G gas systems is an integrated
public-utility system and that the PSE&G gas operations are a retainable
additional system under the standards of Section 11. |
44
transportation agreements, and storage assets), the access of the gas utility companies in the
same holding company system to common market and supply-area hubs, the functional merger of
separate gas supply departments under common management, and sharing of data management software
systems. See NIPSCO Industries, Inc., 53 S.E.C. 1296 at 1306-1309 (1999); New Century Enterprises,
Inc., Holding Co. Act Release No. 27212 (Aug. 16, 2000).
As discussed further in Item 2.B.5, below, Applicants state that the Merger will produce
significant benefits to the public, investors and consumers. Applicants expect that the Merger will
enable them to take advantage of future strategic opportunities in the increasingly competitive and
rapidly evolving markets for energy and energy services in the United States. In particular,
Applicants believe that the combined companies will be better positioned to take advantage of
operating economies and efficiencies. Although PECO and PSE&G will continue to conduct their gas
distribution operations through their respective corporate entities, and do not currently plan to
combine gas supply operations, the systems nonetheless will be operated as a single coordinated
system.
In 2004, Exelon BSC reorganized and expanded its Energy Delivery Shared Services (EDSS)
business unit. EDSS now houses employees who provide executive or centralized management services
to ComEd and PECO (but not to Exelon, Exelon Generation or Enterprises), or whose duties include
performing work on both ComEd and PECO projects. At that time, each of the major operating areas
of the utilities assumed a new consolidated structure, with a single management team overseeing
both ComEd and PECO functions. This structure focuses on the standardization of electric utility
processes across both companies and the achievement of synergies through consolidation of common
functions. Numerous operational and administrative and general functions overseen by EDSS
management are applied at PECO across both electric and gas operations. These include policies and
practices, training and methods, contractor and supply management, call center dispatch, financial
planning and accounting services, construction services and vehicle services, among others.
Applicants expect that post-Merger, this model will be expanded to include PSE&Gs gas as well as
electric utility operations. Thus, EDSS will house employees who will perform work on behalf of
both the PECO and the PSE&G gas systems. In this way, EDSS will coordinate the management of the
two gas systems in areas such as executive services, asset management, customer service and
marketing services, support services and business operations. With respect to business operations,
as the PSE&G and PECO gas systems share many common features, (e.g. percentage of cast iron, steel
and plastic pipes that make up the infrastructure) coordination can also be achieved by the use of
common Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) approaches and monitoring of pressures
and flows at all of the points at which PSE&G and PECO take gas off the interstate pipeline
systems; the use of common system design standards and criteria, the development of common material
specifications to improve procurement processes and reduce costs and sharing of best work practices
and the use of a common work management system. Further, PSE&G and PECOs systems are both subject
to the same federal standards with respect to construction, operation and maintenance which results
in opportunities for further coordination and efficiencies.
With regard to natural gas service itself, a significant amount of the gas distributed by PECO
and PSE&G is purchased from the same supply basins in Texas and Louisiana, and is transported on
the Texas Eastern and Transcontinental pipelines, and is stored in common storage areas owned by
those and other pipelines (e.g. Dominion, Equitrans). These common portfolio resources should
bring long-term benefits to the companies customers. Moreover, as the dynamics and structure of
the natural gas industry continue to change, the marketplace will create even more options for the
companies to create value through coordination of their respective gas supply
portfolios.64
B. Single Area or Region.
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|
|
64 |
|
Although PSEG ER&T currently procures the
natural gas supply and manages pipeline capacity and gas storage services for
the PSE&G gas system, and PECO performs these functions itself, as noted above,
the source of supply, pipelines and location of storage for the two systems
overlap to a large extent. |
45
The combined gas system of PECO and PSE&G will also be confined to a single area or region in
New Jersey and southeastern Pennsylvania.
C. Size.
For the same reasons given above in connection with the discussion of impacts of the Merger on
the combined electric system, localized management, efficient operation, and the effectiveness of
regulation will not be impaired by the resulting size of the integrated gas utility system.
(iii) Retention of Combined Gas System.
As indicated, under the ABC clauses of Section 11(b)(1), a registered holding company can
own one or more additional integrated public utility systems if certain conditions are met.
Specifically, the Commission must find that (A) the additional system cannot be operated as an
independent system without the loss of substantial economies which can be secured by the retention
of control by such holding company of such system, (B) the additional system is located in one
state or adjoining states, and (C) the combination of systems under the control of a single holding
company is not so large . . . as to impair the advantages of localized management, efficient
operation, or the effectiveness of regulation.
A. Loss of Economies.
Clause A requires a showing that each additional integrated system (in this case, the
integrated gas utility system formed by combining the operations of PECO and PSE&G) cannot be
operated as an independent system without the loss of substantial economies which can be secured by
the retention of control by a holding company of such system. Historically, the Commission has
considered four ratios as a guide to determining whether lost economies would be substantial
under Section 11(b)(1)(A). Specifically, the Commission has considered the estimated loss of
economies expressed in terms of the ratio of increased expenses to the systems total operating
revenues, operating revenue deductions, gross income and net income. See Engineers Public Service
Co., 12 SEC 41 (1942), revd on other grounds and remanded, 138 F. 2d 936 (DC Cir. 1943), vacated
as moot, 332 US 788 (1947) (Engineers), and New England Electric System, 41 S.E.C. 888, 893 899
(1964). In Engineers, the Commission suggested that cost increases resulting in a 6.78% loss of
operating revenues, a 9.72% increase in operating revenue deductions, a 25.44% loss of gross
income, and 42.46% loss of net income would afford an impressive basis for finding a loss of
substantial economies associated with a divestiture. 12 SEC at 59. More recently, the Commission
has indicated that it will no longer require a comparison of resulting loss ratios to those in
earlier cases. See CP&L Energy, Inc., Holding Co. Act Release No. 27284 (Nov. 27, 2000), fn. 40.
In its early decisions, the Commission considered the increases in operational expenses that
were anticipated upon divestiture, but also took into account, as offsetting benefits, the
significant competitive advantages that were perceived to flow from a separation of gas and
electric operations. The Commissions assumption was that a combination of gas and electric
operations is typically disadvantageous to the gas operations and, hence, the public interest and
the interests of investors and consumers would be benefited by a separation of gas from the
electric operations. In more recent cases, however, the Commission has recognized that the
historical ratios may not provide an adequate indication of the substantial loss of economies that
may occur by forcing a separation of electric and gas. Specifically, beginning with its decision
in New Century Energies, Inc., 53 S.E.C. 54 (1997), the Commission took notice of the changing
circumstances in todays electric and gas industries, notably the increasing convergence of the
electric and gas industries. The Commission concluded that, in these circumstances, separation of
gas and electric businesses may cause the separated entities to be weaker competitors than they
would be together. This factor adds to the quantifiable loss of economies caused by increased
costs. 53 S.E.C. at 76. This view was repeated in subsequent cases, including the 2000 Merger
Order and WPL Holdings, Inc., 53 S.E.C. 501 (1997). The Commission has also recognized that revenue
enhancement opportunities and other benefits likely to be realized from a convergence merger
would be diminished or lost if the Commission forced a divestiture of the additional system. See
SCANA Corp., Holding Co. Act Release No. 27133 (Feb. 9, 2000); and Northeast Utilities, Holding Co.
Act Release No. 27127 (Jan. 31, 2000).
46
The Commission in the 2000 Merger Order found that the PECO gas utility operations constituted
a permissible additional integrated public utility system.
The Applicants have commissioned a study that analyzes the lost economies that the combined
gas utility operations would suffer if Exelon could not retain them (the Gas
Study). 65 Among other things, divestiture of the gas operations would cause
consumers to forfeit the cost-saving benefits that they may obtain from Exelons ability to offer a
complete package of energy products and services.
The 2000 Merger Order noted the Commissions policy determination that significant economies
and competitive advantages inure in the ownership of both gas and electric
operations.66 Besides the loss of these inherent economies, other substantial
economies would be lost by the separation of the gas operations from the Exelon electric system.
These lost economies would include decreased efficiencies from separate meter reading, meter
testing and billing operations; expenses for duplicative customer service operations; plus a loss
of savings due to the inability to exploit synergies in areas such as facilities maintenance,
emergency work coordination and other administrative operations. A final consideration is that the
electric and gas operations of PSE&G have long been under its control. The Merger will not alter
the status quo with respect to these operations.67 Further, the Merger will be subject
to review by the PAPUC, which has jurisdiction over PECO, and the NJBPU, which has jurisdiction
over PSE&G.
B. Same State or Adjoining States.
The proposed Merger does not raise any issue under Section 11(b)(1)(B) of the Act, as the gas
utility properties are located and operate exclusively in adjoining states, Pennsylvania and New
Jersey. Thus, the requirement that each additional system be located in one State or adjoining
States is satisfied. 68
C. Size.
Further, retention of the combined gas utility business does not raise any issues under
Section 11(b)(1)(C) of the Act. 69 The combination of both electric and gas
utility systems under the control of a single holding company will be not so large . . . as to
impair the advantages of localized management, efficient operation, or the effectiveness of
regulation. As the Commission has recognized, the determinative consideration is not size alone
or size in an absolute sense, either big or small, but size in relation to its effect, if any,
non-localized management, efficient operation and effective regulation. From these perspectives,
it is clear that the continued ownership of the combined gas system by Exelon is not too large.
As of December 31, 2004, and giving effect to the Merger, the combined gas utility operations
would represent only about 11% of Exelons post-Merger gross utility plant, and only about 14% of
Exelons post-Merger net operating revenues.
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|
|
65 |
|
See Exhibit G-9 hereto. The study also
analyzes the effects of divestiture if the PSE&G gas operations were treated as
a separate integrated public-utility system. |
|
66 |
|
2000 Merger Order, citing WPL Holdings,
Inc., Holding Co. Act Release No. 26856 (Apr. 14, 1998), affd, Madison Gas and
Electric Co. v. SEC, 972 F.2d 358 (D.C. Cir. 1992); TUC Holding Co., Holding
Co. Act Release No. 26749 (Aug. 1, 1997); and New Century Energies, Inc., 53
S.E.C. 54 (1997). |
|
67 |
|
See New Century Energies, Inc., 53 S.E.C. 54
(1997). |
|
68 |
|
This standard would similarly be satisfied
if the PSE&G gas operations were treated as a separate integrated
public-utility system. |
|
69 |
|
This standard would similarly be satisfied
if the PSE&G gas operations were treated as a separate integrated
public-utility system. |
47
The local operations of PSE&G will continue to be handled from PSE&Gs local operations
centers, with supplemental support provided by other Exelon system companies with personnel and
other resources in close proximity. Thus, the advantages of localized management will be
preserved.
(iv) Retention of PSEGs Non-Utility Interests.
Section 11(b)(1) permits a registered holding company to retain such other businesses as are
reasonably incidental, or economically necessary or appropriate, to the operations of [an]
integrated public utility system. The Commission has historically interpreted this provision to
require an operating or functional relationship between the non-utility activity and the systems
core utility business. See, e.g. Michigan Consolidated Gas Co., 44 S.E.C. 361 (1970), affd, 444
F.2d 913 (D.C. Cir. 1971); United Light and Railways Co., 35 S.E.C. 516 (1954); CSW Credit, Inc.,
51 S.E.C. 984 (Mar. 2, 1994); and Jersey Central Power and Light Co., Holding Co. Act Release No.
24348 (Mar. 18, 1987).
In addition, the Commission has permitted new registered holding companies to retain passive
investments which, although not meeting the functional relationship test, could nevertheless be
acquired under the standards of Section 9(c)(3) of the Act.
Exhibit G-7 lists and describes those non-utility businesses conducted by PSEG and its
subsidiary companies. As a result of the Merger, those non-utility businesses and interests will
become businesses and interests of Exelon. Except as discussed therein, these non-utility
interests are fully retainable by Exelon under the Act.
In previous matters, including the 2000 Merger Order, the Commission determined it was
appropriate to exclude from the computation of aggregate investment for purposes of Rule 58
investments made at a time the company was not part of a registered holding company
system.70 See also New Century Energies, supra. In this matter as well, Applicants
ask the Commission to confirm that pre-existing investments by PSEG and its subsidiaries in
energy-related companies prior to the effective date of Rule 58 will not count in the calculation
of the 15% limitation for purposes of the safe harbor under Rule 58.
(v) Post-Merger Corporate Structure: The Intermediate Holding Company
Section 11(b)(2) of the Act requires the Commission to ensure that the corporate structure or
continued existence of any company in the holding company system does not unduly or unnecessarily
complicate the structure, or unfairly or inequitably distribute voting power among security
holders, of the holding company system. Section 11(b)(2) also directs the Commission to require
each registered system company to take such action as the Commission shall find necessary in order
that such holding company shall cease to be a holding company with respect to each of its
subsidiary companies which itself has a subsidiary company which is a holding company, in other
words, to eliminate great-grandfather holding companies.
Post-Merger, there will be one instance of a great-grandfather holding company, the
continued existence of which the Commission approved in the 2000 Merger Order. Exelon, through
Delivery, owns substantially all of the outstanding common stock of ComEd (see note 7) which, in
turn, is a holding company for the Indiana Company. The Indiana Company has no retail customers
and owns only transmission facilities with a depreciated book value at December 31, 2004 of only
$7.4 million. The operation of the Indiana Companys transmission facilities is subject to the
control of PJM. Accordingly, the Indiana Company has virtually no business operations with outside
third parties. As noted in the 2000 Merger Order:
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|
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70 |
|
The safe harbor under Rule 58 is available
so long as, among other things, a registered holding companys aggregate
investment in energy-related companies does not exceed 15% of the
consolidated capitalization of the registered holding company. |
48
We do not believe in any event that the proposed corporate
structure of the Exelon system implicates the abuses that section
11(b)(2) of the Act was intended to prevent. These abuses,
facilitated by the pyramiding of holding company groups, involved
the diffusion of control and the creation of different classes of
debt or stock with unequal voting rights. Those abuses are not at
issue in this matter.
With respect to the Delivery chain, only the presence of the
Indiana Company raises an issue under section 11(b)(2). The
Indiana Company has no retail customers and holds only a very
small amount of transmission assets directly related to the
distribution business of ComEd. . . . [T]he Indiana Company has
been in existence for decades and federal and state regulators
have perceived no abuses in the arrangement.
We think that it is appropriate to look through the intermediate
holding companies (or to treat them as a single company) for
purposes of the analysis under section 11(b)(2) of the Act.
Accordingly, we do not find it necessary to require the
elimination of the intermediate holding companies to ensure that
the corporate structure of the Exelon system or continued
existence of any system company does not unduly or unnecessarily
complicate the structure of the Exelon system.
5. Section 10(c)(2).
The Merger will serve the public interest by tending toward the economical and efficient
development of an integrated public utility system, and therefore will satisfy the requirements of
Section 10(c)(2) of the Act.
The proposed Merger will create the nations premier utility company, with over seven million
electric customers and two million gas customers in three states. By sharing resources and best
practices, the proposed Merger will enhance operations across the Exelon system and strengthen
Exelons ability post-Merger to provide cost-effective, safe and reliable service. The Merger will
result in numerous economies and efficiencies within the meaning of the Act:
|
|
Increased Scale and Scope; Diversification. The combined company
will have increased scale and scope in both energy delivery and
generation. In addition, the combined company is expected to have
greater diversification and balance in its energy delivery
business and generation portfolio. This increased scale, scope and
diversification is expected to result in improved service and
reliability. With respect to the energy delivery business, the
combined company will have three urban utility franchises with
service areas encompassing more than 18 million people. The
combined company also will have a large gas distribution portfolio
to complement its electric distribution business. The combined
generation portfolio will be more balanced in terms of geography,
fuel mix, dispatch and load-servicing capacity. |
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|
Commitment to Competition. Exelon and PSEG have been staunch
advocates for competitive retail and wholesale markets in
electricity and gas. This shared vision will allow the new company
to be even more active in the promotion of competitive markets and
the development of energy-related services. In addition, New
Jersey, Pennsylvania and Illinois all have passed legislation
bringing competition to the electric industry, and are in varying
phases of the transition to full competition. The regulatory
knowledge and experience of each company will enhance the merged
companys ability to manage the transition to competition for the
benefit of both customers and shareholders. |
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|
Improved Nuclear Operations. Given Exelons strong, successful
performance in running the nations largest nuclear fleet, the
Applicants expect to realize improved stability, higher capacity
utilization rates and lower costs from combining nuclear
operations under one management. Higher capacity utilization rates
means that the Applicants would be producing more energy from
their nuclear fleet |
49
that can be sold in the wholesale markets, which should have a procompetitive
effect in the wholesale energy markets located in the PJM region where the
Applicants are located. This in turn should be beneficial to the Applicants
retail customers as well as to retail customers throughout the PJM region.
Increasing nuclear output will have a small but significant tendency to lower
wholesale prices. This is because increasing the amount of energy at the
bottom of the stack will in at least some hours lower the PJM marginal cost.
All else being equal, therefore, this should lower Locational Marginal Prices
(LMP), particularly in PJM East.
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|
Anticipated Financial Strength and Flexibility. The
diversification of the energy delivery and generation
portfolios of the combined company should result in a
more stable cash flow, with approximately half of the
combined companys earnings and cash flow coming from
the three regulated utilities and approximately half
coming from the unregulated generation business. |
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|
|
Sharing of Best Practices. The Merger will combine
companies with complementary areas of expertise;
Exelons expertise in generation operations and
PSEGs expertise in transmission and distribution
operations. |
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|
|
Substantial Synergies. Exelon and PSEG have
estimated synergies from the Merger to be
approximately $400 million pre-tax in the first full
year after closing, growing to approximately $500
million pre-tax annually in the second full year,
excluding out-of-pocket costs to achieve and
transaction costs. Approximately 85% of these
synergies are cost related and 15% are based on
increased production at PSEGs nuclear plants. These
cost savings and productivity improvements will
result from a consolidation of the proven
capabilities of both companies, including
implementing certain practices and processes that
have been successful in achieving cost reductions
since the 2000 merger of Unicom Corporation and PECO. Savings
are expected to come from the elimination of
duplicative activities in corporate and
administrative operations, marketing and trading
operations, as well as fossil, nuclear and utility
management functions; improved operating efficiencies
in nuclear operations; efficiencies and savings
generated from consolidation of corporate programs
and information technology platforms; and supply
chain benefits realized from improved sourcing
efficiencies. |
Although some of the anticipated economies and efficiencies will be fully realized only in the
longer term, they are properly considered in determining whether the standards of Section 10(c)(2)
have been met. See AEP, 46 S.E.C. at 1320 1321. Some potential benefits cannot be precisely
estimated; nevertheless, they too are entitled to be considered. As the Commission has observed,
"[s]pecific dollar forecasts of future savings are not necessarily required; a demonstrated
potential for economies will suffice even when these are not precisely quantifiable. Centerior
Energy Corp., 49 S.E.C. at 480.
6. Section 10(f).
Section 10(f) provides that:
The Commission shall not approve any acquisition as to which an
application is made under this section unless it appears to the
satisfaction of the Commission that such State laws as may apply
in respect of such acquisition have been complied with, except
where the Commission finds that compliance with such State laws
would be detrimental to the carrying out of the provisions of
section 11.
As previously indicated, the Merger is subject to review by or notice to each of the affected
state regulators. The Commission may condition it approval on compliance by Applicants with the
terms of subsequently issued state commission orders. See Entergy Corporation, Holding Co. Act
Release No. 25952 (Dec. 17, 1993) (Commission approval conditioned upon issuance of final state
order). Accord City of Holyoke v. SEC., 972 F.2d 358 (D.C. Cir. 1992). See Madison Gas & Electric
Co. v. SEC, 168 F.3d 1337, 1341-42 (D.C. 1999).
50
C. Rules 53 and 54.
The 2004 Financing Order authorizes Exelon to engage in financings for the purposes of
investing in EWGs and FUCOs so long as the aggregate investment in EWGs and FUCOs does not exceed
$4 billion. The 2004 Financing Order reserves jurisdiction over a request to engage in an
additional $3 billion in EWG and FUCO-related financing transactions. Exelon requests the
Commission authorize it to engage in financings in connection with the Merger and post-Merger for
the purposes of investing in EWGs and FUCOs so long as the aggregate investment in EWGs and FUCOs
does not exceed $8.0 billion.
In support of this request, Exelon presents the following.
1. Rule 53 Generally
Under Rule 53(a), the Commission shall not make certain specified findings under Sections 7
and 12 in connection with a proposal by a holding company to issue securities for the purpose of
acquiring the securities of or other interest in an EWG, or to guarantee the securities of an EWG,
if each of the conditions in paragraphs (a)(1) through (a)(4) thereof are met, provided that none
of the conditions specified in paragraphs (b)(1) through (b)(3) of Rule 53 exists.
As of December 31, 2004, the consolidated amount of Exelons aggregate investment in EWGs and
FUCOs (as that term is defined in Rule 53) was $2.2 billion, which is in excess of 50% of Exelons
average consolidated retained earnings (calculated as required by Rule 53) of $3.0 billion as of
that date. As a result of the sale of Sithe Energies, Inc. (Sithe) on January 31, 2005, Exelons
aggregate investment in EWGs decreased to approximately $1.4 billion. In the 2004 Financing Order,
the Commission authorized Exelon to enter into financing transactions in respect of an aggregate
investment in EWGs and FUCOs of up to $4 billion and reserved jurisdiction over the remainder of
Exelons $7.0 billion request. It is anticipated that, as a result of the Merger, Exelons
aggregate investment in EWGs and FUCOs will be approximately $6.5 billion.71
Accordingly, Exelon requests that the Commission approve an aggregate investment limit of $8.0
billion.
Exelon satisfies all of the requirements of Rule 53(a) except for clause (1) thereof. None of
the conditions specified in Rule 53(b) is, or is expected to be, applicable.72 For the
reasons that follow, the proposed increased aggregate investment:
(1) Will not have a substantial adverse impact upon the financial
integrity of the registered holding company system; and
(2) Will not have an adverse impact on any utility subsidiary of
the registered holding company, or its customers, or on the
ability of State commissions to protect such subsidiary or
customers.
Rule 53(c).
As described in Item 1.L.5, because of the accounting for the Merger under GAAP, the retained
earnings of Exelon post-Merger will be less than the combined retained earnings balances of Exelon
and PSEG prior to the Merger. The Commission has considered similar situations in which previously
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71 |
|
This amount is premised upon the successful
execution of the Exelon Generation Restructuring, but not the Generation
Divestiture described in Item 1.H. |
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72 |
|
Exelon represents that it will remain in
compliance with the requirements of Rule 53(a), other than Rule 53(a)(1), at
all times through the Authorization Period. Exelon will file a post-effective
amendment in to this Application/Declaration in the event that one of the
circumstances described in Rule 53(b) should occur during the period through
the end of the Authorization Period. |
51
significant amounts of retained earnings were eliminated.73 Write-offs reducing
retained earnings have been caused by unrecovered stranded costs, disposition of generating assets,
the purchase accounting required in certain mergers and other factors.74 The Commission
has recognized that these are extraordinary events and, while retained earnings have been reduced,
the changes causing such reduction have not adversely affected the fundamental financial strength
of the holding company system. In this matter there can be no question that Exelon currently is,
and post-Merger will be, a financially sound holding company with significant equity.
2. EWG and FUCO Earnings and Losses
With regard to capitalization, since December 31, 2000, there has been no material adverse
impact on Exelons consolidated capitalization resulting from Exelons investments in EWGs and
FUCOs. Exelons common equity ratio has remained above 30% since 2000.
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|
Common Equity Ratio |
December 31, |
|
(%) |
2000 |
|
|
31.3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
2001 |
|
|
35.0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
2002 |
|
|
32.1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
2003 |
|
|
34.9 |
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|
|
|
|
|
2004 |
|
|
40.8 |
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|
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|
|
These ratios are within acceptable industry ranges. The proposed transactions will not have
any material adverse impact on capitalization.
In
the aggregate, Exelons EWG and FUCO investments were profitable for all annual
periods ending December 31, 2000 through December 31, 2002.
While in 2003 Exelon recorded losses of $1.2 billion ($729 million net of income tax) in
connection with two of its EWG investments, Exelon New England Holdings Company (EBG) and Sithe
Energies, Inc. (Sithe), Exelon has since transferred the ownership of EBG to EBGs lenders (on
May 25, 2004, recognizing a net gain of $85 million) and disposed of Sithe on January 31, 2005 (see
discussion below). Excluding the losses at these two companies, for which substantially all
required write-offs have been taken, Exelons remaining EWGs were profitable in 2003. For the
twelve months ending December 31, 2004, Exelons EWGs were in the aggregate, profitable. For
information on EWG earnings, please see item 5a of Exelons quarterly filed Rule 24 certificates.
On November 25, 2003, Exelon Generation, Reservoir Capital Group (Reservoir) and Sithe
completed a series of transactions resulting in Exelon Generation and Reservoir each indirectly
owning a 50% interest in Sithe (Exelon Generation owned 49.9% prior to November 25, 2003).
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73 |
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See, e.g., FirstEnergy Corp., Holding Co.
Act Release No. 27459 (Oct. 29, 2001), Conectiv, Inc., Holding Co. Act Release
No. 27111 (Dec. 14, 1999). |
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74 |
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In FirstEnergy, supra, the subject merger
eliminated the acquired companys retained earnings, and in Conectiv, supra,
retained earnings were affected by write-offs resulting from de-regulation
legislation and previous merger eliminating acquired companys retained
earnings). See also Northeast Utilities, Holding Co. Act Release No. 27147
(March 7, 2000) (restructuring legislation, asset divestitures and
securitization resulted in EWG investments in excess of 50% of retained
earnings). |
52
Both Exelon Generations and Reservoirs 50% interests in Sithe were subject to put and call
options. On September 29, 2004, Exelon Generation exercised its call option and entered into an
agreement to acquire Reservoirs 50% interest in Sithe for $97 million. On November 1, 2004,
Exelon Generation entered into an agreement to sell Sithe to Dynegy Inc. (Dynegy) for $135
million in cash.
On January 31, 2005, subsidiaries of Exelon Generation completed a series of transactions that
resulted in Exelon Generations exit from its investment in Sithe. Specifically, subsidiaries of
Exelon Generation closed on the acquisition of Reservoirs 50% interest in Sithe and the sale of
100% of Sithe to Dynegy. Prior to closing on the sale to Dynegy, subsidiaries of Exelon Generation
received from Sithe approximately $65 million in cash distributions. As a result of the sale,
Exelon deconsolidated from its balance sheet approximately $820 million of debt and was released
from approximately $125 million of credit support. Additionally, Exelon issued certain guarantees
to Dynegy that will be taken into account in the final determination of the gain or loss on sale.
On October 13, 2004, Sithe transferred all of the shares of Sithe International, Inc. and its
subsidiaries to a subsidiary of Exelon Generation in exchange for the cancellation of a $92 million
note and accrued interest. Sithe International, through its subsidiaries, had a 49.5% interest in
two Mexican business trusts that own the Termoeléctrica del Golfo (TEG) and Termoeléctrica
Peñoles (TEP) power stations, two 230 MW petcoke-fired generating facilities in Tamuín, Mexico
that commenced commercial operations in the second quarter of 2004. Both the TEG and TEP power
stations are EWGs.
3. Risk Analysis and Mitigation.
Exelon has a comprehensive risk analysis and mitigation process in place.75
All of Exelons investments in EWGs and FUCOs are segregated from ComEd and PECO, and in the
future will remain segregated from ComEd, PECO and PSE&G. Any losses that may be incurred by such
EWGs and FUCOs would have no effect on the rates of the Retail Utility Subsidiaries. Exelon
represents that it will not seek recovery through higher rates from the Retail Utility
Subsidiaries utility customers in order to compensate Exelon for any possible losses that it or
any Subsidiary may sustain on the investment in EWGs or FUCOs or for any inadequate returns on such
investments.
4. Financial Ratios.
Growth in Retained Earnings. Both Exelon and PSEG have had significant increases in
retained earnings over the past four years. Since the 2000 Merger, Exelons retained earnings have
grown from $334 million to $3,353 million, an increase of 935%. Also during this period, PSEGs
retained earnings have increased by 66%, from $1,459 million to $2,425 million.
Financial Ratios. Exelons requested $8.0 billion aggregate investment in EWGs and
FUCOs would represent a conservative and reasonable commitment of Exelon capital for a company the
size of Exelon post-Merger. For example, investments of this amount would be equal to only
approximately:
15.5% of Exelons pro-forma total consolidated capitalization ($51.7 billion),76
24.5% of pro forma consolidated utility plant and equipment ($32.7 billion),
9.9% of pro forma total consolidated assets ($80.9 billion), and
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75 |
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This process was described in detail in
Amendment No. 4 in File No. 70-9693, filed December 5, 2000. Exelon is aware
of proposed Rule 55, which would codify the Commissions practice of requiring
holding companies to institute a risk management process. See Holding Co. Act
Release No. 27342 (Feb. 7, 2001). Exelon will comply with the requirements of
Rule 55 if it is adopted. |
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This calculation of capitalization includes
securitization obligations. |
53
18.1% of the pro forma market value of Exelons outstanding common stock ($44.3
billion). 77
These percentages are substantially better than the comparable figures relied on by the
Commission in approving Exelons aggregate investment in the 2004 Financing Order. Based on
Exelons financial condition at December 31, 2003, a $7.0 billion aggregate investment in EWGs and
FUCOs would have represented 28.7% of consolidated capitalization, 38.6% of consolidated utility
plant, 16.7% of consolidated assets and 32.1% of market value of Exelon common stock. Accordingly,
the calculations show that Exelon should be authorized to invest the proceeds of financings in EWGs
and FUCOs as requested.
5. State Commissions.
The PAPUC has previously advised the Commission that Exelons proposed aggregate investment of
up to $7.0 billion in EWGs and FUCOs would not adversely affect the state commissions ability to
continue to assure adequate protection of utility customers and ratepayers, and the ICC has
previously advised the Commission that Exelons proposed aggregate investment of up to $5.5 billion
in EWGs and FUCOs would not adversely affect the state commissions ability to continue to assure
adequate protection of utility customers and ratepayers. Exelon and PSE&G have asked the NJBPU to
advise the Commission that Exelons proposed aggregate investment of up to $7.0 billion in EWGs and
FUCOs would not adversely affect the state commissions ability to continue to assure adequate
protection of utility customers and ratepayers. To the extent required, Exelon plans to seek any
necessary confirmation from each state commission regarding its request contained herein for an
increase in aggregate investment authority.
6. Rule 54.
Rule 54 provides that, in determining whether to approve the issue or sale of any securities
for purposes other than the acquisition of any EWG or FUCO or other transactions unrelated to EWGs
or FUCOs, the Commission shall not consider the effect of the capitalization or earnings of
subsidiaries of a registered holding company that are EWGs or FUCOs if the requirements of Rule
53(a), (b) and (c) are satisfied. As described above in detail, Exelon may not be in compliance
with all of the provisions of the Rule 53 safe harbor post-Merger. Exelon believes that, for the
reasons set out above, the Commission should approve the increased limit on aggregate investment.
For those same reasons, Exelon requests the Commission to make no adverse findings under Rule 54 in
connection with the approvals sought herein for other purposes.
Item 4. Regulatory Approvals.
New Jersey Board of Public Utilities
As a utility in the State of New Jersey, PSE&G is subject to the jurisdiction of the NJBPU.
Under Section 48:2-51.1 of New Jerseys public utility law, the NJBPUs approval is required in
connection with the indirect transfer of the capital stock of PSE&G resulting from the Merger. In
considering the Merger, the NJBPU is required to evaluate the impact of the Merger in four areas:
competition, the rates of ratepayers affected by the Merger, the employees of the affected public
utility, and the provision of safe and adequate utility service at just and reasonable rates.
On February 4, 2005, Exelon and PSE&G made the initial filing of their joint application with
the NJBPU for approval of the indirect transfer of the capital stock of PSE&G resulting from the
Merger.
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The market value of Exelon common stock is
calculated based on the pro forma number of shares of Exelon common stock to
be outstanding immediately following the Merger assuming conversion of PSEG
common stock, times the closing stock price of Exelon common stock at December
31, 2004 of $44.07 per share. |
54
While New Jersey law does not specify a timetable for completion of the NJBPUs review, Exelon
and PSE&G have asked that the NJBPU handle the matter on an expedited basis.
In addition, while not required by law to complete the Merger, Exelon and PSEG have made it a
condition to the Merger that PSE&G receive an order from the NJBPU allowing PSE&G to defer certain
pension and other post-retirement benefit expenses that will be recognized in connection with the
purchase accounting treatment of the Merger, and providing that PSE&Gs rate recovery of pension
and other post-retirement benefits will be calculated consistently with recovery of such amounts in
the absence of the Merger.78 On February 4, 2005, Exelon and PSE&G made the initial
filing of their joint application with the NJBPU to obtain the order. 79
New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection
Subsidiaries of PSEG own facilities in New Jersey that are industrial establishments as
defined in ISRA. The parties have already filed their application with NJDEP and have received letter of
non-applicability under ISRA with respect to the Merger, the Generation Restructuring and Merger
related corporate restructurings during the first quarter of 2005. 80
New York Public Service Commission
As an owner of generation facilities in the State of New York, a subsidiary of PSEG Power is
subject to the jurisdiction of the New York Public Service Commission (NYPSC). Under Section 70
of the New York Public Service Law, the NYPSCs written consent is required in connection with the
indirect transfer of ownership interests in such subsidiary of PSEG Power in connection with the
Merger. Under Section 70 of the New York Public Service Law, the NYPSC must determine whether the
Merger is in the public interest. The parties have already filed their application and have received approval with
the NYPSC. 81
Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission
PECO and PSE&G are subject to the jurisdiction of the PAPUC. The issuance to each of PECO and
PSE&G of a certificate of public convenience and necessity by the PAPUC may be required as a result
of the indirect transfer of the capital stock of PSE&G in connection with the Merger under Chapters
11, 22 and 28 of the Public Utility Code of Pennsylvania. The standard for approval is whether the
transaction is necessary and proper for the service, accommodation, convenience or safety of the
public. This standard has been applied by the PAPUC to require that applicants demonstrate that
the transaction will affirmatively promote the service, accommodation, convenience or safety of the
public in some substantial way. In addition, under provisions enacted as part of Pennsylvanias
electric and natural gas restructuring legislation, the PAPUC must consider:
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whether a proposed transaction is likely to result in anticompetitive or
discriminatory conduct, including the unlawful exercise of market power, which would
prevent retail electric or natural gas customers in Pennsylvania from obtaining the
benefits of a properly functioning and workable competitive retail electric or natural
gas market; and |
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78 |
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For a description of this matter, see Risk
FactorsRisks Relating to the MergerThe combined company may be
unable to obtain permission from the NJBPU to recover PSE&Gs pension and other
post-retirement benefit expenses, which could have an adverse effect on its
cash flow and results of operations in the Registration Statement on Form S-4
filed as Exhibit C hereto. |
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See Exhibit D-2 hereto. |
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See Exhibit D-5 hereto. |
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See Exhibit D-6 hereto. |
55
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the effect of the proposed transaction on the natural gas distribution company
employees and authorized collective bargaining agreement. |
On February 4, 2005, PECO and PSE&G made the initial filing of their joint application for
approval by the PAPUC under the Public Utility Code of Pennsylvania or a determination that
Chapters 11, 22 and 28 are not applicable to the Merger. 82 While the Public
Utility Code of Pennsylvania does not specify a timetable for completion of the PAPUCs review,
PECO and PSE&G have asked that the PAPUC handle the matter on an expedited basis.
On September 13, 2005, PECO announced that it had filed with the PAPUC a settlement of most
issues raised in Pennsylvanias review of the Merger. 83 If the settlement is
approved, PECO would provide $120 million over four years in rate discounts for customers and cap
its rates through the end of 2010. The settlement also provides substantial funding for
alternative energy and environmental projects, economic development, expanded outreach and
assistance for low-income customers, and various corporate safeguards. Later in September, a PAPUC
administrative law judge will review testimony about the settlement, as well as other issues not
resolved in the case. The judge subsequently will make a recommendation to the PAPUC, which will
vote on the case possibly before the end of 2005.
Illinois Commerce Commission ComEd has filed a notice with respect to the Merger with
the ICC. Formal approval of the Merger by the ICC is not required. 84
Connecticut As the owner of generation stations in the State of Connecticut,
PSEG Power Connecticut LLC, an indirect subsidiary of PSEG Power, is subject to the jurisdiction of
the Connecticut Siting Council (CSC) under Connecticut public utility laws and the Connecticut
Department of Environmental Protection (CDEP) under Connecticut environmental law. The indirect
transfer of the ownership interests in these entities may require the approval of the CDEP and will
require the approval of the CSC. The parties filed their application with the CSC on March 3, 2005
and received their approval. The parties intend to file their application for approval with the CDEP during the first quarter of
2005. 85
Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC)
PSEG Power holds a NRC operating license for its Salem and Hope Creek nuclear generating
facilities. This license authorizes PSEG Power to own and/or operate its nuclear generating
facilities. The Atomic Energy Act provides that a license may not be transferred or, in any manner
disposed of, directly or indirectly, through transfer of control of any license unless the NRC
finds that the transfer complies with the Atomic Energy Act and consents to the transfer.
Therefore, the consent of the NRC is required for the transfer of control pursuant to the Merger of
the license held by PSEG Power. The NRC will consent to the transfer if it determines that:
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the proposed transferee is qualified to be the holder of the license; and |
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the transfer of the license is otherwise consistent with applicable provisions of
laws, regulations and orders of the NRC. |
The parties have filed applications with the NRC. 86
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82 |
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See Exhibit D-4 hereto. |
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See Exhibit D-12 hereto. |
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See Exhibit D-3 hereto. |
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See Exhibit D-7 hereto. |
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See Exhibits D-8, D-9 and D-10 hereto. |
56
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
On July 1, 2005, the FERC issued the FERC Merger Order. 87 The changed
merger review provision implemented by the Energy Policy Act of 2005 are not applicable to the
Merger.
In addition, Exelon and PSEG
are required by the FERC order to make appropriate filings under Section 205 of the Federal Power Act
to implement the transaction.
Antitrust
Under the provisions of the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as amended,
(the H-S-R Act), the Merger cannot be completed until both Exelon and PSEG file a notification of
the proposed transaction with the Antitrust Division of the United States Department of Justice and
the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the specified waiting periods have expired or been
terminated. The parties have been informed that the Antitrust Division will review the case and
the FTC will not.
The parties received a second request for information from the Antitrust Division and have
certified substantial compliance with such request. The waiting period mandated by the H-S-R Act
expired September 1, 2005. The Antitrust Division review continues notwithstanding such expiration
but the parties do not expect a delay in closing will result.
At any time before the Merger is completed, the Antitrust Division could challenge or seek to
block the Merger under the antitrust laws, as it deems necessary or desirable in the public
interest. Other competition promoting agencies with jurisdiction over the Merger could also
initiate action to challenge or block the Merger. In addition, in some jurisdictions, a
competitor, customer or other third party could initiate a private action under the antitrust laws
challenging or seeking to enjoin the Merger, before or after it is completed. Based upon an
examination of information available relating to the businesses in which the companies are engaged,
Exelon and PSEG believe, with the market concentration mitigation plan they have proposed, that
completion of the Merger will not violate United States or applicable foreign antitrust laws.
The Merger may also be subject to review by the governmental authorities of various other
jurisdictions under the antitrust laws of those jurisdictions.
Federal Communications Commission
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) must approve the transfer of control of
telecommunications permits or licenses. The Communications Act of 1934 prohibits the transfer,
assignment or disposal in any manner of any license, or any rights thereunder, to any person
without authorization from the FCC. PSEGs subsidiaries hold telecommunications licenses and,
together with the appropriate subsidiaries of Exelon, will seek the necessary approvals from the
FCC for the assignment of or transfer of control over such licenses in connection with the Merger.
Under the Communications Act, the FCC will approve a transfer of control if it serves the public
interest, convenience, and necessity.
Private Letter Ruling of the Internal Revenue Service
Exelon and PSEG have received a ruling from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) confirming
that no gain or loss will be recognized for United States federal income tax purposes with respect
to the transfer of PSEGs nuclear decommissioning trust funds as a result of the Merger.
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87 |
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See Exhibits D-11 hereto. |
57
Exelon will request that the IRS issue a private letter ruling confirming section 1081 tax
treatment in respect of the Generation Transactions as and to the extent that Exelon will seek to
utilize such tax treatment in respect of the divestiture of a particular generating unit. It is
possible that the IRS may require Exelon to modify aspects of the structure of the Generation
Transactions to obtain the private letter ruling. The Generation Transactions are deemed to
include any such modifications to the extent such modifications allow Exelon to comply with the
order of the Commission on the Applications and is otherwise acceptable to Exelon.
Except as stated above, no state or federal regulatory agency other than the Commission under
the Act has jurisdiction over the proposed Merger.
NJBPU Approval Regarding PSE&G Securities Issuances
The NJBPU has authority under N.J.S.A. 48:3-7, N.J.S.A. 48:3-9 and N.J.S.A. 14:1-5,9 to
approve the issuance of securities by PSE&G. PSE&G, a New Jersey corporation, obtains approval
from the NJBPU for all of its securities issuances, including both long-term and short-term debt
securities. Its existing approvals include authority to issue up to $750 million of short-term
debt through January 2, 2007 (Order of Approval, Docket No. EF04101117 (December 2, 2004)).
Further, PSE&G has authority to issue various long-term debt securities in an amount not to exceed
$525 million through December 31, 2005. (Order of Approval, Docket No. EF03121003 (April 28,
2004)). Accordingly, PSE&G is not seeking any approval from the Commission for the issuance of
exempt securities, but will rely on Rule 52(a).
PSE&G has pending an application with the NJBPU seeking approval in connection with the
issuance of up to $150 million of securitization obligations under N.J.S.A. 48:3-57. If the
application is approved, the NJBPU would authorize a transition bond charge which amounts would be
sold by PSE&G to a special purpose Financing Subsidiary in connection with the securitization
financing. Because PSE&G will be covered by the general authorizations applicable to the Exelon
system approving formation and activities of Financing Subsidiaries and entering into servicing
agreements at market rates in compliance with rating agency requirements, PSE&G will need no
further approval from the Commission for the proposed $150 million securitization financing.
Item 5. Procedure.
The Commission is respectfully requested to publish the requisite notice under Rule 23 with
respect to this Application as soon as possible, such notice to specify a date by which comments
must be entered and such date being the date when an order of the Commission granting and
permitting this Application to become effective may be entered by the Commission. The Applicants
request that the Commissions order be issued as soon as the rules allow, and that there should not
be a 30-day waiting period between issuance of the Commissions order and the date on which the
order is to become effective. The Applicants hereby waive a recommended decision by a hearing
officer or any other responsible officer of the Commission and consent that the Division of
Investment Management may assist in the preparation of the Commissions decision and/or order,
unless the Division opposes the matters proposed herein.
Item 6. Exhibits And Financial Statements.
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A.
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Exhibits. |
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A-1
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Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of Exelon
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Exelons Registration
Statement on Form S-4, filed May 15, 2000 (File No. 333-37082)) |
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A-2
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Amendment to Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of Exelon
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Exelons Quarterly Report
on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2004, filed July 28, 2004
(File No. 001-16169)) |
58
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A-3
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Form of Amendment to Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of
Exelon, (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Exelons
Registration Statement on Form S-4, filed February 10, 2005 (File No.
333-122074)) |
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B-1
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Agreement and Plan of Merger between Exelon and PSEG, dated as of
December 20, 2004 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to Current
Report on Form 8-K, filed December 21, 2004 (File No. 001-16169)) |
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B-2
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Exelon Indenture (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to
Exelons Registration Statement on Form S-3, filed March 27, 2001 (File
No. 333-57540)) |
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B-3
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Exelon Generation Indenture (incorporated by reference to Exhibit
4.1 to Exelons Registration Statement on Form S-4, filed April 4, 2002
(File No. 333-85496)) |
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B-4
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Form of PSEG Mutual Services
Agreement (to be filed by amendment) |
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B-5
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Description of Exelon Service Providers and existing agreements under
State approved affiliated interest requirements (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit B-3.3 to Exelons Application on Form U-1, filed
October 18, 2000 (File No. 70-09645)) |
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C
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Definitive joint proxy statement/prospectus, filed pursuant to rule
424(b)(3) on June 3, 2005 (File No. 333-122074) (incorporated by
reference) |
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D-1
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Joint Application of Exelon and PSEG to the FERC regarding Merger,
filed February 4, 2005 (excluding exhibits and testimony, which
Applicant will supply upon request of the Commission) (to be filed by amendment) |
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D-2
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Joint Petition of Exelon and PSE&G to the NJBPU for Approval of a
Change in Control of PSE&G, and Related Authorizations, filed February
4, 2005 (excluding exhibits and testimony, which Applicants will supply
upon request of the Commission) (to be filed by amendment) |
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D-3
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ComEds Notice of Holding Company Merger to the ICC, filed February 4,
2005 (excluding exhibits and attachments, which Applicants will supply
upon request of the Commission) (to be filed by amendment) |
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D-4
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Joint Application of PECO and PSE&G to PAPUC for Approval of the Merger
of PSEG with and into Exelon, filed February 4, 2005 (excluding
exhibits and testimony, which Applicants will supply upon request of
the Commission) (to be filed by amendment) |
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D-5
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Joint Application of Exelon and PSEG with NJDEP for Letter of
Non-Applicability under ISRA (to be filed by amendment) |
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D-6
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Joint Application of Exelon and PSEG to NYPSC for Approval of Indirect
Transfer of Ownership Interests (to be filed by amendment) |
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D-7
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Joint Request of PSEG Power Connecticut, LLC and Exelon Corporation to
CSC for Approval of Transfer of Certificate of Environmental
Compatibility and Public Need, filed March 3, 2005 (excluding exhibits
and testimony, which Applicants will supply upon request of the
Commission) (to be filed by amendment) |
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D-8
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Application of PSEG Nuclear LLC to NRC for Proposed License Transfer
and Conforming License Amendments Relating to the Merger of PSEG and
Exelon (excluding exhibits and testimony, which Applicants will supply
upon request of the Commission) (to be filed by amendment) |
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D-9
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Application of Exelon Generation to NRC for Approval of License
Transfers (excluding exhibits and testimony, which Applicants will
supply upon request of the Commission) (to be filed by amendment) |
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D-10
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Application of AmerGen to NRC for Approval of Indirect License
Transfers (excluding exhibits and testimony, which Applicants will
supply upon request of the Commission) (to be filed by amendment) |
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D-11
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Order of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission of July 1, 2005,
Order Authorizing Merger Under Section 203 of the Federal
Power Act. (to be filed by amendment) |
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D-12
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Joint Petition for Settlement
(PAPUC) (to be filed by amendment) |
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E-1
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Map of combined transmission systems of Exelon and PSEG (to be filed by
amendment) |
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E-2
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Map of combined gas service territory of Exelon and PSEG (to be filed
by amendment) |
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F
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Opinions of counsel (to be filed by amendment) |
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G-1
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Diagram of Exelons
Post-Merger Corporate Structure (to be filed by amendment) |
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G-2
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Diagram of Existing Corporate
Structure of Exelon System (to be filed by amendment) |
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G-3
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Diagram of Existing Corporate
Structure of PSEG System (to be filed by amendment) |
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G-4
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List of Generation Facilities
Subject to Divestiture (to be filed by amendment) |
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G-4-1
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Subject Assets: Divestiture via Sale |
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G-5
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Description of all outstanding
indebtedness and obligations of PSEG (to be filed by amendment) |
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G-6
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Description of all inter-company
guaranties in PSEG system (to be filed by amendment) |
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G-7
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Analysis of Non-Utility Interests
of PSEG (filed in connection herewith with a request for confidential treatment) |
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G-8
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Analysis of the Economic Impact of a Divestiture of the Gas Operations
of PECO Energy Company (incorporated by reference to Exhibit J-1 to
Exelons Application on Form U-1, filed March 16, 2000 (File No.
70-09645)) |
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G-9
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Analysis of the Economic Impact of a Divestiture of the Gas Operations
of PECO and PSE&G |
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H
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Proposed Form of Notice (to be filed by amendment) |
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FS-1
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Consolidated Balance Sheet of Exelon as of December
31, 2004 (incorporated by reference to Exelons Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31,
2004, filed February 23, 2005 (File No. 1-16169)) |
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FS-2
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Consolidated Statement of Income of Exelon for the
year ended December 31, 2004 (incorporated by reference
to Exelons Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year
ended December 31, 2004, filed February 23, 2005 (File
No. 1-16169)) |
60
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
FS-3
|
|
Consolidated Balance Sheet of PSEG as of December 31,
2004 (incorporated by reference to PSEGs Annual Report
on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004, filed
February 28, 2005 (File No. 1-09120)) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
FS-4
|
|
Consolidated Statement of Operations of PSEG for the
year ended December 31, 2004 (incorporated by reference
to PSEGs Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended
December 31, 2004, filed February 28, 2005 (File No.
1-09120)) |
Item 7. Information as to Environmental Effects
The proposed transaction involves neither a major federal action nor significantly affects
the quality of the human environment as those terms are used in Section 102(2)(C) of the National
Environmental Policy Act, 42 U.S.C. Sec. 4321 et seq. No federal agency is preparing an
environmental impact statement with respect to this matter.
Item 8. Implementation of Section 1271(c) of the Energy Policy Act of 2005
Repeal of the Act will become effective on the Effective Date. Notwithstanding such
effectiveness, Section 1271(c) of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 provides that tax treatment under
Section 1081 of the Internal Revenue Code as a result of transactions ordered in compliance with
the Act shall not be affected in any manner due to repeal of the Act or enactment of PUHCA 2005.
In order more fully to secure for the Applicants and their subsidiaries the benefits of tax
treatment under Section 1081, the Applicants undertake the following:
(i) notwithstanding the effectiveness of repeal of the Act, from and after the Effective
Date, to comply with the Commissions order to divest control, securities or other assets
and for other action by a company and/or subsidiary company thereof for the purpose of
enabling the company or any subsidiary company thereof to comply with the provisions of
subsections (b) and (e) of Section 11 of the Act (an Implementation Order) as to
each and every condition ordered in the Implementation Order to the extent, but only to the
extent, that such conditions also remain required pursuant to an order of the FERC or an
order of any State or other Federal commission or an order of any State or Federal court;
and
(ii) to submit to the authority of the FERC, from and after the Effective Date, in respect
of such aspects of the Implementation Order that remain in force and effect (including, but
without limitation, full power and authority to amend or change the surviving provisions of
the Implementation Order as FERC may deem necessary or appropriate in the circumstances).
The Applicants consent and agree that consummation by them of the Merger shall constitute
their acceptance of the survival of the Implementation Order as contemplated in this Item 8
notwithstanding the effectiveness of the repeal of the Act.
61
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935, each of the
undersigned companies has duly caused this amended Application/Declaration to be signed on its
behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
|
|
|
Date: September 23, 2005 |
|
|
|
|
|
Public Service Enterprise Group Incorporated
|
|
Exelon Corporation |
|
|
|
Public Service Electric and Gas Company*
|
|
Commonwealth Edison Company* |
PSEG Power LLC*
|
|
Exelon Energy Delivery Company, LLC* |
PSEG
Energy Holdings L.L.C.
|
|
Exelon Business Services Company* |
PSEG Service Corporation
|
|
Exelon Ventures, LLC* |
80 Park Plaza
|
|
10 South Dearborn Street |
Newark, New Jersey 07102
|
|
37 th Floor |
|
|
Chicago, Illinois 60603 |
* Including one or more subsidiaries
|
|
PECO Energy Company* |
|
|
2301 Market Street |
|
|
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19101 |
|
|
Exelon Generation Company, LLC* |
|
|
300 Exelon Way |
|
|
Kennett Square, Pennsylvania 19348 |
|
|
|
|
|
* Including one or more subsidiaries |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
By Public Service Enterprise Group |
|
By Exelon Corporation |
Incorporated |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
By:
|
|
/s/ Elizabeth A. Moler |
By:
|
|
/s/ R. Edwin Selover
|
|
Name:
|
|
Elizabeth A. Moler |
Name:
|
|
R. Edwin Selover
|
|
Title:
|
|
Executive Vice President |
Title:
|
|
Senior Vice President and General
|
|
|
|
Government and Environmental Affairs |
|
|
Counsel
|
|
|
|
and Public Policy |
|
|
Public Service Enterprise Group
|
|
|
|
Exelon Corporation |
|
|
Incorporated
|
|
|
|
101 Constitution Avenue, NW |
|
|
80 Park Plaza
|
|
|
|
Suite 400 East |
|
|
Newark, New Jersey 07102
|
|
|
|
Washington, DC 20001 |
62
exv99wg4w1
Exhibit G-4-1
Eligible Units for Generation Divestiture
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Units |
|
Type |
|
MW |
|
Current Owner |
|
Pre-Merger |
|
Post Merger |
|
|
|
|
(winter |
|
|
|
Status |
|
Status* |
|
|
|
|
rating)1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Conowingo
|
|
HY
|
|
|
512 |
|
|
Susquehanna Power
Co. and PECO
Energy Power Co.
|
|
EWG
|
|
EWG |
Yards Creek
|
|
HY
|
|
|
200 |
|
|
PSEG Fossil
|
|
EWG
|
|
Utility |
Eddystone 1-2
|
|
ST
|
|
|
579 |
|
|
Exelon Generation
|
|
Utility
|
|
Utility |
Cromby 1
|
|
ST
|
|
|
144 |
|
|
Exelon Generation
|
|
Utility
|
|
Utility |
Hudson 2
|
|
ST
|
|
|
608 |
|
|
PSEG Fossil
|
|
EWG
|
|
Utility |
Mercer 1-2
|
|
ST
|
|
|
648 |
|
|
PSEG Fossil
|
|
EWG
|
|
Utility |
Bergen, 1ST, 1SC, 1CC
|
|
CC
|
|
|
1,225 |
|
|
PSEG Fossil
|
|
EWG
|
|
Utility |
Linden CC
|
|
CC
|
|
|
1,218 |
|
|
PSEG Fossil
|
|
EWG
|
|
Utility |
Bergen 3
|
|
GT
|
|
|
21 |
|
|
PSEG Fossil
|
|
EWG
|
|
Utility |
Sewaren 1-4
|
|
ST
|
|
|
453 |
|
|
PSEG Fossil
|
|
EWG
|
|
Utility |
Hudson 1
|
|
ST
|
|
|
383 |
|
|
PSEG Fossil
|
|
EWG
|
|
Utility |
Kearney 7-8
|
|
ST
|
|
|
300 |
|
|
PSEG Fossil
|
|
EWG
|
|
Utility |
Pennsbury 1-2
|
|
GT
|
|
|
6 |
|
|
Exelon Generation
|
|
Utility
|
|
Utility |
Cromby 2
|
|
ST
|
|
|
201 |
|
|
Exelon Generation
|
|
Utility
|
|
Utility |
Kearny (PSEG)
|
|
CT
|
|
|
134 |
|
|
PSEG Fossil
|
|
EWG
|
|
Utility |
Burlington (PSEG)
|
|
CT
|
|
|
168 |
|
|
PSEG Fossil
|
|
EWG
|
|
Utility |
Eddystone 3-4
|
|
ST
|
|
|
760 |
|
|
Exelon Generation
|
|
Utility
|
|
Utility |
Essex
|
|
GT
|
|
|
81 |
|
|
PSEG Fossil
|
|
EWG
|
|
Utility |
Linden 7-8
|
|
GT
|
|
|
156 |
|
|
PSEG Fossil
|
|
EWG
|
|
Utility |
Edison
|
|
GT
|
|
|
168 |
|
|
PSEG Fossil
|
|
EWG
|
|
Utility |
Fairless Hills
|
|
ST
|
|
|
60 |
|
|
Exelon Generation
|
|
Utility
|
|
Utility |
Cromby 1C1
|
|
|
1C1 |
|
|
|
3 |
|
|
Exelon Generation
|
|
Utility
|
|
Utility |
Delaware 1
|
|
|
1 |
|
|
|
3 |
|
|
Exelon Generation
|
|
Utility
|
|
Utility |
Schuyhill 1, 10-11, 1C1
|
|
|
ST, GT 1C1
|
|
|
199 |
|
|
Exelon Generation
|
|
Utility
|
|
Utility |
Croydon
|
|
GT
|
|
|
384 |
|
|
Exelon Generation
|
|
Utility
|
|
Utility |
Essex 10, 11, 12
|
|
GT
|
|
|
536 |
|
|
PSEG Fossil
|
|
EWG
|
|
Utility |
Edison
|
|
GT
|
|
|
336 |
|
|
PSEG Fossil
|
|
EWG
|
|
Utility |
Richmond
|
|
GT
|
|
|
96 |
|
|
Exelon Generation
|
|
Utility
|
|
Utility |
Kearny 9, 10, 12
|
|
GT
|
|
|
330 |
|
|
PSEG Fossil
|
|
EWG
|
|
Utility |
National Park
|
|
GT
|
|
|
21 |
|
|
PSEG Fossil
|
|
EWG
|
|
Utility |
Falls
|
|
GT
|
|
|
51 |
|
|
Exelon Generation
|
|
Utility
|
|
Utility |
Moser
|
|
GT
|
|
|
51 |
|
|
Exelon Generation
|
|
Utility
|
|
Utility |
Delaware 9-12
|
|
GT
|
|
|
56 |
|
|
Exelon Generation
|
|
Utility
|
|
Utility |
Eddystone 10-40
|
|
GT
|
|
|
60 |
|
|
Exelon Generation
|
|
Utility
|
|
Utility |
Southwark 3-6
|
|
GT
|
|
|
52 |
|
|
Exelon Generation
|
|
Utility
|
|
Utility |
Chester 7-9
|
|
GT
|
|
|
39 |
|
|
Exelon Generation
|
|
Utility
|
|
Utility |
Burlington 8-11
|
|
GT
|
|
|
389 |
|
|
PSEG Fossil
|
|
EWG
|
|
Utility |
Bayonne 1-2
|
|
GT
|
|
|
42 |
|
|
PSEG Fossil
|
|
EWG
|
|
Utility |
|
|
|
1 |
|
The MW ratings were obtained from publically
available sources and may differ from ratings contained in other filings
submitted to the Commission by either Exelon or PSEG or their subsidiaries. |
|
Exhibit G-4-1
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Units |
|
Type |
|
MW |
|
Current Owner |
|
Pre-Merger |
|
Post Merger |
|
|
|
|
(winter |
|
|
|
Status |
|
Status* |
|
|
|
|
rating)1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Sewaren 6
|
|
GT
|
|
|
129 |
|
|
PSEG Fossil
|
|
EWG
|
|
Utility |
Mercer 3
|
|
GT
|
|
|
129 |
|
|
PSEG Fossil
|
|
EWG
|
|
Utility |
Linden 5, 6
|
|
GT
|
|
|
160 |
|
|
PSEG Fossil
|
|
EWG
|
|
Utility |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Sub Total
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
11,091 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
PJM Pre-2004 2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Muddy Run
|
|
HY
|
|
|
1,070 |
|
|
Exelon Generation
|
|
Utility |
|
Utility |
Keystone 1-2
|
|
ST
|
|
|
738 |
|
|
Exelon Generation (20.99%
interest)
PSEG Fossil (22.5% interest) |
|
Utility EWG |
|
Utility Utility
|
Keystone
|
|
GT
|
|
|
5 |
|
|
Exelon Generation (20.99% interest)
PSEG Fossil (22.5% interest) |
|
Utility EWG |
|
Utility Utility
|
Conemaugh 1-2
|
|
ST
|
|
|
732 |
|
|
Exelon Generation (20.72% interest)
PSEG Fossil (22.5% interest) |
|
Utility EWG |
|
Utility Utility
|
Conemaugh
|
|
GT
|
|
|
5 |
|
|
Exelon Generation (20.72%
interest) PSEG Fossil (22.5% interest) |
|
Utility EWG |
|
Utility Utility
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Sub Total
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2,549 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2 |
|
Reflects combined interest of Exelon and PSEG
in Keystone and Conemaugh. |
Exhibit G-4-1
|
|
|
|
|
Key:
|
|
HY
|
|
Hydroelectric |
|
|
NU
|
|
Nuclear |
|
|
ST
|
|
Steam turbine (coal or gas) |
|
|
CC
|
|
Combined cycle (gas) |
|
|
GT
|
|
Gas turbine |
|
|
IC
|
|
Internal Combustion |
|
|
|
* |
|
A Post-Merger Status of utility means that the particular generating unit will be owned
directly by Exelon Generation following the Exelon Generation Restructuring as described in the
Form U-1 Application-Declaration to which this document is an exhibit (the U-1) (not as a
separate EWG subsidiary) and accordingly its disposition after closing the Merger will constitute
the disposition of utility assets under the Act. All the generating units owned by PSEG Fossil and
PSEG Nuclear are currently held as exempt wholesale generators (EWGs). Conversely, if an
eligible unit remains an EWG following the Merger no Commission approval will be required for its
divestiture. |
exv99wg9
Exhibit G-9
EXELON CORPORATION
PUBLIC SERVICE ENTERPRISE GROUP INCORPORATED
Privileged and Confidential Prepared at the Request of Counsel
ANALYSIS OF THE ECONOMIC IMPACT OF A DIVESTITURE OF THE GAS OPERATIONS OF PECO ENERGY AND PUBLIC
SERVICE ELECTRIC AND GAS COMPANY
With PSE&G Gas Divestment Supplement
August, 2005
TABLE OF CONTENTS
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Page |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
I.
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
|
|
|
1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
II.
|
|
EXELON AND PSEG GAS OVERVIEW
|
|
|
10 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
III.
|
|
GENERAL APPROACH AND ASSUMPTIONS
|
|
|
13 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
IV.
|
|
STANDALONEGASCO IMPACTS
|
|
|
18 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
A. INCREMENTAL LABOR COSTS
|
|
|
20 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
B. INCREMENTAL NON-LABOR COSTS
|
|
|
31 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
C. TRANSITION COSTS
|
|
|
48 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
V.
|
|
ELECTRIC CUSTOMER IMPACTS
|
|
|
51 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
VI.
|
|
OTHER IMPACTS
|
|
|
56 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
VII.
|
|
CONCLUSION
|
|
|
57 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
VIII.
|
|
EXHIBITS
|
|
|
59 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
IX.
|
|
SUPPLEMENT- PSEG GAS ONLY DIVESTMENT
|
|
|
74 |
|
i
TABLE OF CONTENTS
(continued)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Page |
|
Figures, Tables and Appendices |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Figure 1 Historic Natural Gas Prices (1991 2005) |
|
|
5 |
|
Figure 2 StandAloneGasCo Organization Model |
|
|
15 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Table 1 Annual Shareholder Impact of Lost Economies |
|
|
3 |
|
Table 2 Annual Gas Customer Revenue Requirement Impact of Lost Economies |
|
|
7 |
|
Table 3 PECO Gas Business Overview ($M) |
|
|
11 |
|
Table 4 PSEG Gas Business Overview ($M) |
|
|
12 |
|
Table 5 Summary of StandAloneGasCo Impacts($M) |
|
|
19 |
|
Table 6 Total Company and Gas Only Staffing Baseline |
|
|
23 |
|
Table 7 Customers Accounts Predecessor Companies vs. StandAloneGasCo |
|
|
26 |
|
Table 8 StandAloneGasCo Staffing |
|
|
30 |
|
Table 9 Incremental Labor Cost |
|
|
31 |
|
Table 10 Corporate Incremental Costs |
|
|
32 |
|
Table 11 IT Implementation Costs |
|
|
40 |
|
Table 12 Customer Operations Incremental Non-labor Costs |
|
|
41 |
|
Table 13 Gas Operations Incremental Non-labor Costs |
|
|
45 |
|
Table 14 Incremental Transition Costs |
|
|
48 |
|
Table 15 Electric Customer Impact Labor |
|
|
53 |
|
Table 16 Non-labor Incremental Electric Impact |
|
|
55 |
|
Table 17 Lost Gas Synergy Opportunity Resulting from Exelon-PSEG Merger |
|
|
56 |
|
Table 18 Annual Shareholder Impact of Lost Economies PSEG Only |
|
|
76 |
|
Table 19 Annual Customer Revenue Requirement Impact of Lost Economies |
|
|
77 |
|
Table 20 Summary of PSEG Gas Only Impacts |
|
|
78 |
|
Table 21 Total Company and Gas Only Staffing Baseline |
|
|
80 |
|
Table 22 New Jersey GasCo Staffing |
|
|
81 |
|
Table 23 Incremental Labor Costs |
|
|
82 |
|
Table 24 Corporate Incremental Non-labor Costs |
|
|
83 |
|
Table 25 IT Implementation Costs |
|
|
84 |
|
Table 26 Customer Operations Incremental Non-Labor Costs |
|
|
85 |
|
Table 27 Incremental Transition Costs |
|
|
86 |
|
Table 28 Non-Labor Incremental Electric Impact Detail PSEG Only |
|
|
88 |
|
Table 29 Lost PSEG Gas Synergy Opportunity Resulting from Merger |
|
|
89 |
|
Table 30 PSEG Gas Balance Sheet (December 31, 2004) |
|
|
91 |
|
Table 31 PSEG Gas Income Statement (2005 Estimated) |
|
|
92 |
|
Table 32 New Jersey GasCo Balance Sheet (December 31, 2004) |
|
|
93 |
|
Table 33 New Jersey GasCo Income Adjustments & Revenue Requirements (2005) |
|
|
94 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Appendix 1 PSEG Gas & PECO Gas Beginning Balance Sheets (December 31, 2004) |
|
|
59 |
|
Appendix 2 PSEG Gas & PECO Gas Income Statements (2005 est.) |
|
|
60 |
|
Appendix 3 PSEG & PECO Gas Utility Non- Fuel Baseline Spend O&M and Capital |
|
|
61 |
|
Appendix 4 StandAloneGasCo Balance Sheet (December 31, 2004) |
|
|
62 |
|
ii
TABLE OF CONTENTS
(continued)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Page |
|
Appendix 5 StandAloneGasCo Income Adjustments & Revenue Requirements (2005) |
|
|
63 |
|
Appendix 6 Corporate / Shared Services Staffing Categories and Descriptions |
|
|
64 |
|
Appendix 7 Customer Operations Staffing Categories and Descriptions |
|
|
69 |
|
Appendix 8 Gas Operations Staffing Categories and Descriptions |
|
|
71 |
|
Appendix 9 PECO Non-labor Incremental Electric Impact |
|
|
72 |
|
Appendix 10 PSEG Non-labor Incremental Electric Impact |
|
|
73 |
|
iii
- 1 -
I. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This study was undertaken on behalf of Exelon Corporation (Exelon) and Public
Service Enterprise Group Incorporated (PSEG) as required
by the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935, as amended
(PUHCA), to demonstrate the inefficiency of divesting
the gas distribution businesses from the operating utilities at PECO Energy (PECO), a
subsidiary of Exelon, and Public Service Electric and Gas Company (PSE&G), a subsidiary
of PSEG. This study supports the application by Exelon and PSEG to the Securities and
Exchange Commission under PUHCA, to merge and retain their gas distribution businesses.
The proposed merger of Exelon and PSEG would create a new integrated gas and electric
utility, which includes the utilities of Commonwealth Edison Company (ComEd), PECO and
PSE&G. However, PUHCA provides that registered holding companies must limit utility
operations to a single integrated electric or gas utility unless Clauses A, B and C of
PUHCA Section 11(b) are met. The objective of this analysis is to test PUHCAs
requirements against the combined utility operations of Exelon and PSEG to determine
whether the continued operation of an integrated gas and electric business would meet these
standards.
Specifically, this analysis focuses on Clause A, which states that the formation and
existence of an integrated gas and electric utility cannot be permitted unless the
Commission determines that 1) there is a substantial loss of economies as a result of
- 2 -
the forced divestment of the gas portion of the integrated utility and 2) the prevention of
the lost economies can only take place if the gas business is maintained as part of an
integrated utility operation within the holding company.
Relevant stakeholders, for the purpose of this study, include Exelon and PSEG shareholders
and existing customers of PECOs and PSE&Gs electric and gas businesses.
Summary of Shareholder Impacts
As a result of this analysis, several key ratios indicate that the divestiture of the gas
businesses of Exelon and PSEG would significantly disadvantage existing shareholders. The
lost economies from this divestiture would exceed $217 million and would result from the
foregone integration benefits currently enjoyed by Exelon and PSEG shareholders.
Currently, consolidated corporate and shared services functions are organized to support
the electric and gas businesses as well as the non-regulated businesses of Exelon and PSEG.
This organizational model allows for these services to be provided and shared across a
larger base of businesses. These benefits would be foregone by separating the gas
businesses, resulting in significantly higher costs. Incremental costs would be incurred
in customer and field operations as a result of the establishment of standalone
infrastructure required to operate and maintain a gas-only utility. Many of these costs
(e.g., call center and customer inquiry) are currently shared with the electric businesses.
Finally, significant transition costs would be incurred to establish this entity that
would otherwise not be
- 3 -
required. Such costs would include investment banking, legal, and other financial
advisory-related fees.
Table 1 below summarizes the annual shareholder impact across several key
ratios.1 As this table demonstrates, the lost economies represent over 18% of
total operating revenues less purchased gas.
Table 1 Annual Shareholder Impact of Lost Economies
|
|
|
|
|
Total Lost Economies ($M) |
|
$ |
217.5 |
|
Incremental Operating Costs ($M) |
|
$ |
184.3 |
|
Incremental Depreciation Expense ($M) |
|
$ |
33.2 |
|
Total Lost Economies as a Percent of: |
|
|
|
|
Total Operating Revenues Less Purchased Gas |
|
|
18.5 |
% |
Total Gas Operating Revenues |
|
|
5.7 |
% |
Total Gas Operating Revenues Deductions |
|
|
6.3 |
% |
Gross Gas Income |
|
|
66.1 |
% |
Net Gas Income |
|
|
96.0 |
% |
The lost economies as a percentage of total operating revenues less purchased gas is deemed
a more appropriate and compelling comparison to one comparing lost economies to total
revenues since the later improperly mutes the economic impact of
|
|
|
1 |
|
Total Gas Operating Revenue is the sum of all
estimated revenues for the 12 months ending December 31, 2005 for both
PECOs and PSE&Gs gas businesses. Total Operating Revenues Less
Purchased Gas revenue is operating revenues excluding gas purchases. Total Gas
Operating Revenue Deductions include all purchased gas, operations and
maintenance expenses, administrative and general expenses, depreciation, and
taxes other than income taxes. Gross Gas Income is the difference between
Total Gas Operating Revenue and Total Gas Operating Revenue Deductions. Net
Gas Income is Gross Gas Income minus income taxes (income taxes are calculated
after interest). |
- 4 -
the divestment. Purchased gas ($2.63 billion), which is essentially passed through to
customers at incurred cost, is approximately two-thirds of total operating revenue ($3.8
billion). Since the deregulation of natural gas markets in the early 1990s, gas prices
have increased from $1.50 per thousand cubic feet (Mcf) to $5.90 per Mcf in
2004.2 In last several years alone (1999 2004), gas prices have grown at a
compound annual growth rate of 21% due to fundamental shifts in the gas commodity market.
Figure 1 below, shows historic natural gas prices since 1991.
|
|
|
2 |
|
Henry Hub Gas Price-Annual Average of Daily
Prices 1991-2004 (Bloomberg). |
- 5 -
Figure 1 Historic Natural Gas Prices (1991 2005)
As a result of the increase in gas prices, purchased gas now accounts for the majority of an
average customers bill. In 1991, gas commodity related charges accounted for only 50% of a
PECO gas bill. In 2004 the cost of purchased gas was 72% of a PECO gas bill.3
PSE&Gs gas customers have also experienced similar increases as a percentage of their total
monthly bill. By analyzing the lost economies as a percentage of revenues less purchased gas
one gets a clearer sense of the magnitude of the economies lost that
would result if required to divest the Companies gas operations.
|
|
|
3 |
|
This figure assumes 20 Mcf of monthly
customer usage. |
- 6 -
Summary of Customer Impacts
Customer impacts were evaluated by assuming that regulatory agencies would allow for the
divested gas company to recover the lost economies associated with the separation of PECOs
and PSE&Gs gas utilities through a rate increase. The increased operating costs
associated with the lost economies and the need for new capital investments by a
hypothetical, integrated, stand-alone gas company following the divestiture of these
businesses by the combined Exelon -PSEG would result in an approximate $248 million or
6.8% increase in customer rates. This impact is even more dramatic, approximately 23%,
when it is measured against the non-purchased gas portion of the rates.
- 7 -
Table 2 Annual Gas Customer Revenue Requirement Impact of Lost Economies
|
|
|
|
|
Pre-Divestiture Regulated Revenue ($M) |
|
$ |
3,695 |
|
Post-Divestiture Regulated Revenue Requirement |
|
$ |
3,943 |
|
Pre-Divestiture Regulated Revenue Less Purchased Gas |
|
$ |
1,065 |
|
Post-Divestiture Regulated Revenue Less Purchased Gas |
|
$ |
1,313 |
|
Increase In Revenue Requirement |
|
$ |
248 |
|
- Incremental Regulated Operating Costs4 |
|
$ |
177 |
|
- Incremental Depreciation |
|
$ |
33 |
|
- Incremental Income Tax |
|
$ |
15 |
|
- Incremental Return on Capital |
|
$ |
23 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Percent Increase in Non-Fuel Rates |
|
|
23.3 |
% |
Percent Increase in Total Rates |
|
|
6.7 |
% |
Summary of Remaining Electric Customer Impacts
The required divestiture of PECO and PSEGs gas utilities would not only have a negative
impact on existing shareholders and gas customers, but it would also create economic losses
for the remaining electric customers. These losses are estimated to be approximately $160
million in operating expenses and an increase in rate base of approximately $24 million.
Because of the integrated nature of the current operations of PECO and PSE&G, many of the
costs currently allocated to the gas businesses would be borne by the remaining electric
customers if gas operations were divested.
|
|
|
4 |
|
Incremental Regulated Operating Costs exclude
$7.3 million of increased costs associated with Customer Service for
PSEGs Appliance Service Business. |
- 8 -
A large portion of the utilitys cost structure is fixed (e.g., staffing levels) and
therefore the remaining electric businesses would need to absorb these additional costs.
The $160 million of additional costs absorbed by the remaining electric businesses comprise
approximately 2.0% of total electric revenue and 3.9% of total electric revenue less fuel.
Other Customer Impacts
Finally,
if divestiture of the gas businesses is required, it would result in additional costs or
foregone benefits not specifically related to rates. For example, the merger between
Exelon and PSEG creates significant synergies through the elimination of overlap and
duplication between the two companies. Gas customers would benefit from the allocated
portion of these synergy savings if there was no divestiture. Management has estimated the
combined net synergy savings for PECO and PSE&G gas to be $19 million in the fourth year
(2009). This allocated share of savings would be foregone by requiring the divestment of
the gas businesses.
Additionally, customers would suffer other economic and non-economic damages. For example,
after the divestiture both gas and electric customers would be required to make separate
billing payments and incur additional postage costs. These costs could be as a high as
$8.5 million per year. The divestiture would require customers to transact with a new
organization to establish new accounts, report trouble, or terminate and transfer existing
service. The creation of the new organization would add additional burdens that otherwise
would not exist.
- 9 -
Conclusion
If the
Commission was to require the divestiture of PECOs and PSE&Gs gas operations and the creation of
StandAloneGasCo, such action would result in significant lost economies due to the elimination of labor
and non-labor efficiencies currently realized under the current integrated models. The
organizational structures of Exelon and PSEG and the highly integrated nature of core
functional areas such as corporate support and customer service have benefited customers in
Pennsylvania and New Jersey for several years. Based on the analysis contained in this
filing, the creation of StandAloneGasCo would obviate these efficiencies and cause
substantial economic hardship to electric and gas customers as well as the shareholders of
all companies involved, while providing no indicated benefit to the public.
- 10 -
II. EXELON AND PSEG GAS OVERVIEW
The gas
distribution businesses within Exelon and PSEG are very distinct in
terms of their size, integration with the electric business, and
operating business model. PECOs gas distribution system currently
serves approximately 460,000 customers over 1,900 square miles of
service territory in the four-county region surrounding the
metropolitan Philadelphia area. PECOs gas and electric field
operations are tightly integrated with shared service buildings and
warehouses and use of common contractors. For example, PECO electric
and gas customers are served by the same contractor under an
outsourced meter reading agreement. Customer service is also
integrated with one call center and billing platform serving both PECO
electric and gas customers. Joint electric and gas customers receive
one bill from PECOs billing system. Corporate and administrative
services are performed under a shared services model at both the
utility and corporate level with a mixture of centralized and embedded
resources. Because the Exelon family of businesses span multiple
states (e.g. Illinois, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Texas, Massachusetts)
common corporate functions are both centralized (primarily in Chicago
and Philadelphia) or are resident within the businesses to meet the
specific needs of the applicable business. For example, some
corporate functions are embedded within PECO (e.g., human resources)
and support both the electric and gas business while others are
centralized (e.g., communications) and provide general corporate
support to the gas business.
- 11 -
The utility businesses within Exelon (PECO and Commonwealth Edison Company) have also
adopted a shared services model to perform such services as financial accounting and
budgeting across the two utilities. Costs are allocated to PECOs gas business in
accordance with the level of corporate resources absorbed by the business. This business
model allows PECO gas customers to enjoy the benefits of scale efficiencies by performing
those activities across a large base of businesses and in proportion to the level of
services consumed. As described later in this analysis, many of these benefits would be
foregone if the gas business was divested while the remaining electric customers would
suffer from increased costs. Detailed baseline data is provided in Appendices 1, 2, and 3.
Table 3 PECO Gas Business Overview ($M)
|
|
|
|
|
12/31/04 Assets |
|
$ |
1,382 |
|
12/31/04 Liabilities |
|
$ |
694 |
|
12/31/04 Capitalization |
|
$ |
689 |
|
2005 Est. Revenue |
|
$ |
788 |
|
2005 Est. Employees5 |
|
|
563 |
|
PSE&Gs gas distribution system currently serves approximately 1.7 million customers across
2,600 square miles in a multi-county region. Many of the gas field operating functions are
separate and distinct from the electric business and have
|
|
|
5 |
|
PECO gas total employees include dedicated
gas employees and allocated corporate resources. |
- 12 -
different bargaining unit contracts. Functions such as maintenance, logistics,
transportation and supply are performed separately for the electric and gas business. The
PSE&G gas business also has a significant appliance services segment that serves customers
throughout its service territory with a staff of over 800 employees. As with PECOs gas
business, PSE&G gas customers share a call center and neighborhood service centers with
electric customers and receive one integrated electric and gas bill. Corporate and
administrative functions are more centralized compared to Exelon, with most corporate and
administrative costs allocated to the gas business based on the level of services consumed.
Detailed baseline data is provided in Appendices 1, 2, and 3.
Table 4 PSEG Gas Business Overview ($M)
|
|
|
|
|
12/31/04 Assets |
|
$ |
3,445 |
|
12/31/04 Liabilities |
|
$ |
1,504 |
|
12/31/04 Capitalization |
|
$ |
1,941 |
|
2005 Est. Revenue |
|
$ |
3,017 |
|
2005 Est. Employees6 |
|
|
3,106 |
|
|
|
|
6 |
|
PSE&G gas total employees include dedicated
gas employees and allocated corporate resources. |
- 13 -
III. GENERAL APPROACH AND ASSUMPTIONS
The objective of this analysis is to understand the economic impacts of divesting the gas businesses of PECO and
PSE&G into a new, integrated stand-alone gas company (StandAloneGasCo). Economic impacts are defined as the lost
economies from the hypothetical divestiture of the gas businesses into StandAloneGasCo and are translated into a resulting
rate impact to gas customers and lost value for shareholders.
Legal Formation
The following analysis assumes that StandAloneGasCo would be created by separating the existing gas businesses resident
within the two utilities and creating a new gas company, StandAloneGasCo, that would serve the 2.2 million gas customers
of PECO and PSE&G within New Jersey and Pennsylvania. There are many ways to effect this transaction but it was assumed
that this divestiture would be structured so that there would not be any tax impacts to the predecessor companies. A
capital structure for StandAloneGasCo was assumed that reflects a capital structure consistent with other gas only
companies and is consistent with authorized capital structures in the local jurisdictions. StandAloneGasCo would raise
new debt and equity to capitalize this company and related governance and regulatory costs would be incurred. These costs
are described later in this analysis.
- 14 -
Business Model
Because of PSE&Gs size (1.7 million gas customers) versus PECO (0.5 million gas customers), it was assumed that
StandAloneGasCos headquarters would reside in Newark, New Jersey. The company would have separate New Jersey and
Pennsylvania operating divisions. Local field operations would be maintained for each jurisdiction with system
maintenance and construction, meter reading, and logistics designed to meet the needs of local customers. All existing
bargaining unit contracts are assumed to be honored. Facilities and transportation services would also be designed to
effectively serve the needs of local customers. A common call center would be developed to serve the combined customer
base.
For corporate and administrative services, a shared services organization would be created to provide support across the
two utilities. PSEGs shared services model, which relies more heavily on centralized resources, was used as the
reference model to design the shared services organization for StandAloneGasCo. Corporate functions (e.g. finance, human
resources, legal, etc.) would be resident within the shared services organization to take advantage of the economies of
scale by providing these resources over a larger base. A high level organizational model for StandAloneGasCo is depicted
below in Figure 2.
- 15 -
Figure 2 StandAloneGasCo Organization Model
This model served as the basis to develop the costs associated with this new entity.
Overall Methodology
Two analyses were performed to understand the impacts of separating the gas businesses into a single, integrated business.
|
|
StandAloneGasCo Impacts |
|
|
|
The lost economies from the divestiture of the gas businesses would include both incremental costs incurred as well
as new costs that this organization would incur. These lost economies were evaluated from a shareholder |
- 16 -
|
|
perspective by reviewing the impact against several key financial ratios while the
impacts to customers were determined by calculating the rate increase necessary to
absorb the lost economies. |
|
|
|
Electric Customer Impacts |
|
|
|
In the event that the divestiture of the gas business is
required by the Commission, many corporate costs would no longer
be allocated to the gas business. Due to the integrated nature of the PECOs and
PSE&Gs operations, many of the costs currently allocated to the gas businesses
would now be borne by the remaining electric customers. A large portion of the
utilitys cost structure is fixed (e.g., certain staffing levels), requiring the
remaining electric businesses to absorb these additional costs. |
Analysis Process
2005 budget data from both companies was used to develop the beginning baseline cost
structure (labor and non-labor) for each gas business. Current positions were identified
for the functional and operating components of the business using the current staffing
databases maintained by each company. The StandAloneGasCo balance sheet was estimated as
of the end of 2004 (see Appendix 4 for details). StandAloneGasCos revenue requirements
were estimated for 2005 by adjusting the combined 2005 income statements of PECO and
PSE&Gs gas businesses for the incremental costs associated with operating on a stand-alone
basis (see Appendix 5 for details).
- 17 -
Cost estimates for the StandAloneGasCo were developed using existing budget data from each
company. For example, average functional salaries in StandAloneGasCo were assumed to be
the same as the blend of existing functional salaries from each company. Non-labor costs
were similarly estimated using a blend of the two predecessor companies cost data.
Management was interviewed in both corporate and operating functions from both companies to
estimate the impacts across the businesses from this separation and to build the cost
structure for the new gas company. As described later in this analysis, both incremental
operating costs and new capital investments were estimated. A third-party consultant was
used to analyze the data provided from both companies and provide industry benchmark
information to validate and test the assumptions developed throughout the analysis.
- 18 -
IV. STANDALONEGASCO IMPACTS
StandAloneGasCo was created by first developing the labor
resources, costs and infrastructure that would be necessary to separately operate
PSE&Gs gas business. Because of PSE&Gs size and scale, the
incremental labor resources, costs and infrastructure required to
operate the PECO gas business were then factored into the PSE&G cost
structure.
This incremental cost approach was followed for both labor and
non-labor corporate costs where appropriate. For example, a new
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system would be required to
integrate financial, human resource and supply chain data. PSEGs
current platform was assumed to be recreated in StandAloneGasCo using
cost estimates based on PSE&Gs historical implementation costs.
Supporting the PECO business on this new system would require only
incremental data conversion costs. In some cases an incremental
approach was not appropriate and it was assumed that new systems or
facilities would be created to support StandAloneGasCo. For example,
a new call center including facilities and systems would be required
to handle the call volumes for the combined gas customers.
In the development of StandAloneGasCo a distinction was made between
incremental ongoing operating expenses and incremental capital costs
incurred. This distinction was made to develop a complete view of the
revenue requirement impacts of the lost
- 19 -
economies. The impacts of the incremental costs
associated with the divestiture are summarized in Table 5.
Table 5 Summary of StandAloneGasCo Impacts ($M)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
($M) |
|
O&M Impact |
|
|
Capital Impact |
|
Incremental Labor Costs |
Corporate |
|
$ |
43.1 |
|
|
$ |
- |
|
Customer Operations |
|
$ |
69.3 |
|
|
$ |
- |
|
Field Operations |
|
$ |
22.2 |
|
|
$ |
- |
|
Total Labor Costs |
|
$ |
134.6 |
|
|
$ |
- |
|
Incremental Non-labor Costs
|
Corporate |
|
$ |
33.6 |
|
|
$ |
121.5 |
|
Customer Operations |
|
$ |
8.0 |
|
|
$ |
17.9 |
|
Field Operations |
|
$ |
(0.2 |
) |
|
$ |
7.9 |
|
Total Non-labor Costs |
|
$ |
41.4 |
|
|
$ |
147.2 |
|
Transition Costs
|
Total Transition Costs |
|
$ |
8.4 |
|
|
$ |
- |
|
Sub-total Operating Cost |
|
$ |
184.4 |
|
|
$ |
147.2 |
|
Incremental Depreciation Costs
|
Incremental Depreciation |
|
$ |
33.2 |
|
|
$ |
- |
|
Total Costs
|
Total Incremental Costs |
|
$ |
217.6 |
|
|
$ |
147.2 |
|
-20-
A. Incremental Labor Costs
The incremental labor costs associated with the divestiture of PECOs and
PSE&Gs gas businesses were calculated by comparing the current gas staffing
baseline to the StandAloneGasCos staffing requirements. The incremental
resources identified were then multiplied by the blended salaries for each
function to determine the incremental labor costs that would be associated with
a divestiture.
StandAloneGasCo would require a discrete management model and organizational
structure to operate as a standalone business. The new organization was
developed in three primary functional areas: corporate and shared services,
customer operations, and gas operations (see Figure 2 for an illustrative
organizational model).
Current Gas Staffing
The PECO and PSE&G gas staffing baselines were summarized in the three groups
outlined above.
The Corporate / Shared Services baseline includes the following functional
categories (see Appendix 6 for details and definitions):
|
|
Executive / Governance / Legal |
|
|
|
Finance & Accounting |
|
|
|
Government / Regulatory / Environmental Affairs |
|
|
|
Human Resources |
-21-
|
|
Information Technology |
|
|
|
Communications |
|
|
|
Supply |
|
|
|
Support Services |
In the predecessor companies, corporate functions were either centralized
(supporting all businesses as well as other corporate functions), dedicated
(located within the corporate umbrella organization, but dedicated solely to
one business) or embedded (located at the business and managed by the
business). The operating assumption for StandAloneGasCo is that all corporate
functions would be centrally managed and shared across the two gas operations
to the extent practicable.
The Customer Operations baseline includes the following functional categories
(see Appendix 7 for details and definitions):
|
|
Retail Marketing & Sales: Key subfunctional staffing categories include managed
account representatives and market, product and sales planning. |
|
|
|
Customer Services: Key subfunctional staffing categories include customer inquiry,
meter reading, and cash/bill processing. |
Many of the subfunctions included in this category are highly integrated with the existing
electric businesses. Due to this high level of gas and electric integration, significant
diseconomies would be created if required to separate the shared customer operations functions as will
be described later in this analysis.
-22-
The Gas Operations baseline includes the following functional staffing categories (see
Appendix 8 for details and definitions):
|
|
Gas Distribution: Key subfunctional staffing categories include construction and
maintenance crews, engineering and support and gas service personnel and management. |
|
|
Appliance Services: Only offered by PSEG, this group provides appliance services
and repairs for customers throughout the PSE&G service area. |
Using this functional and subfunctional labor structure, the labor baseline was established
for Exelon (in which PECO gas resides) and PSEG (in which PSE&Gs gas operations resides)
using 2005 budget data. The purpose of the total company staffing baseline is to establish
a foundation for identifying gas-only staffing.
StandAloneGasCos staffing baseline was determined in two ways. First, gas dedicated or
embedded personnel in specific functional categories (i.e. corporate, customer operations,
and gas operations) were identified using Exelon and PSEG corporate-wide staffing models
and human resources databases. These dedicated and embedded employees would include
personnel either located in the corporate /shared services organizations performing duties
dedicated to the gas operations, or employees embedded in the customer operations or field
operations groups working exclusively for the associated function.
In addition, labor costs allocated to the gas business in company budgets served as an
additional point from which to understand the resources dedicated to the gas business. The
allocated labor dollars were divided by the average loaded salary per functional category
resulting in a full time equivalent (FTE) estimate for each relevant
-23-
functional area. The combination of these two methods, direct assignment and FTE
allocations, resulted in a comprehensive view of the resources supporting the gas business.
Table 6 illustrates both the total company and gas only personnel.
Table 6 Total Company and Gas Only Staffing Baseline
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Company |
|
Gas Only |
Labor Function |
|
PSEG |
|
Exelon |
|
Combined |
|
PSEG |
|
PECO |
|
Combined |
Exec / Govern / Legal |
|
|
135 |
|
|
|
208 |
|
|
|
343 |
|
|
|
26 |
|
|
|
7 |
|
|
|
33 |
|
Finance & Accounting |
|
|
502 |
|
|
|
582 |
|
|
|
1,084 |
|
|
|
38 |
|
|
|
21 |
|
|
|
59 |
|
Gov / Reg/ Env Affairs |
|
|
185 |
|
|
|
213 |
|
|
|
398 |
|
|
|
45 |
|
|
|
10 |
|
|
|
55 |
|
Human Resources |
|
|
164 |
|
|
|
221 |
|
|
|
385 |
|
|
|
46 |
|
|
|
5 |
|
|
|
51 |
|
Information Technology |
|
|
296 |
|
|
|
724 |
|
|
|
1,020 |
|
|
|
99 |
|
|
|
33 |
|
|
|
132 |
|
Communications |
|
|
40 |
|
|
|
56 |
|
|
|
96 |
|
|
|
23 |
|
|
|
3 |
|
|
|
26 |
|
Supply |
|
|
531 |
|
|
|
772 |
|
|
|
1,303 |
|
|
|
96 |
|
|
|
26 |
|
|
|
122 |
|
Support Services |
|
|
272 |
|
|
|
265 |
|
|
|
537 |
|
|
|
16 |
|
|
|
15 |
|
|
|
31 |
|
Corporate |
|
|
2,125 |
|
|
|
3,041 |
|
|
|
5,166 |
|
|
|
389 |
|
|
|
120 |
|
|
|
509 |
|
Customer Services |
|
|
1,552 |
|
|
|
1,858 |
|
|
|
3,410 |
|
|
|
692 |
|
|
|
65 |
|
|
|
757 |
|
Retail Mrktng & Sales |
|
|
118 |
|
|
|
183 |
|
|
|
301 |
|
|
|
17 |
|
|
|
16 |
|
|
|
33 |
|
Customer Operations |
|
|
1,670 |
|
|
|
2,041 |
|
|
|
3,711 |
|
|
|
709 |
|
|
|
81 |
|
|
|
790 |
|
Gas Distribution |
|
|
1,216 |
|
|
|
362 |
|
|
|
1,578 |
|
|
|
1,216 |
|
|
|
362 |
|
|
|
1,578 |
|
Appliance Services |
|
|
861 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
861 |
|
|
|
861 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
861 |
|
Gas Operations |
|
|
2,077 |
|
|
|
362 |
|
|
|
2,439 |
|
|
|
2,077 |
|
|
|
362 |
|
|
|
2,439 |
|
Other |
|
|
5,006 |
|
|
|
12,198 |
|
|
|
17,204 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
|
10,878 |
|
|
|
17,642 |
|
|
|
28,520 |
|
|
|
3,175 |
|
|
|
563 |
|
|
|
3,738 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Note: Other includes- Electric Transmission, Electric Distribution, Generation, and Other Non-Regualted Positions |
Standalone Analysis
Several analyses were performed to estimate the StandAloneGasCo labor model. A bottom-up
functional analysis was conducted based on the operating parameters of the new company.
Analysis and interviews were conducted primarily with PSE&G
-24-
gas operations and functional management, as PSE&Gs gas businesses represents the more
significant gas business in terms of number of customers served, asset levels, and
revenues. A resource estimate was developed for each functional staffing area using the
experience and judgment of the relevant functional manager. The nature of activities
performed within each function was assessed to determine the level of resources required to
support the business.
Industry functional benchmarks were also reviewed to supplement management judgment.
Benchmarks were reviewed for the various functions and adjustments were made to the initial
estimate in cases where the bottoms-up analysis suggested an overly conservative or overly
aggressive staffing level compared to industry peers. This step was performed to ensure
that the staffing levels developed did not suggest an organizational structure incongruent
to others in the industry. This approach, combining the judgment of management with
independent benchmark data, resulted in StandAloneGasCo staffing of 5,111 positions
compared to a baseline of 3,738 positions. Each of the three major functional groups is
discussed in more detail below.
Corporate / Shared Services Based on the bottom up analysis, StandAloneGasCo corporate
positions significantly increased over the gas baseline from 509 to 803. Functional
categories with the greatest increase over the baseline included finance and accounting,
information technology and support services. These increases are largely driven from the
additional staffing required in StandAloneGasCo because of
-25-
the lost consolidation benefit currently enjoyed by the gas businesses at PECO and PSE&G.
For example, finance and accounting resources that once supported the electric utilities,
gas utilities and non-regulated generation businesses of Exelon and
PSEG, collectively, would no
longer have this broad base of businesses to support in StandAloneGasCo. An overriding
assumption for StandAloneGasCo was the development of a common ERP system from which the
new organization would operate its finance and accounting function that allows for the
centralization of resources within the shared services organization.
Certain
corporate functions would need to be created to support the new organization. For example,
within finance and accounting, a stand alone treasury and internal
audit department would need to be created. Staffing levels would be driven by the size and complexity of the new organization.
Similarly, a new senior executive team would need to be created from resources currently
unavailable within the predecessor companies. In addition, individuals to lead the major
functional areas (e.g. Finance, Information Technology,
Communications, etc.) would need to be hired
to manage the new organization.
Customer Operations - Customer operations positions were analyzed in a similar fashion in
determining the StandAloneGasCo base case, resulting in an increase from 790 in the current
baseline to 1,681 for StandAloneGasCo. This increase is due to the diseconomies associated
with separating the integrated gas and electric customer operations function. Currently,
the gas businesses in PSE&G and PECO receive scale
-26-
benefits in customer operations due to joint electric and gas accounts, integrated call
centers, and common meter readers. Currently PSE&G and PECO together have 5.9 million
total customers, but only 3.9 customer accounts, or two accounts for every three customers
(see Table 7 for details).7
Table 7 Customers Accounts Predecessor Companies vs. StandAloneGasCo
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Electric / Gas |
|
|
|
|
|
Customers w/ Common |
|
Customers w/ Either |
|
Predecessor Company |
|
StandAlone GasCo |
|
|
Customers |
|
Total Customers |
|
Electric & Gas Bill |
|
Electric or Gas |
|
Customer Accounts |
|
Customer Accounts |
Customers in Millions |
PECO |
|
|
1.5 / .5 |
|
|
|
2.0 |
|
|
|
.5 |
|
|
|
1.0 |
|
|
|
1.5 |
|
|
|
.5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
PSEG |
|
|
2.1 / 1.7 |
|
|
|
3.8 |
|
|
|
1.4 |
|
|
|
1.0 |
|
|
|
2.4 |
|
|
|
1.7 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
|
3.7 / 2.2 |
|
|
|
5.9 |
|
|
|
1.9 |
|
|
|
2.0 |
|
|
|
3.9 |
|
|
|
2.2 |
|
StandAloneGasCo would serve 2.2 million individual customer accounts since there would
be no overlap with electric customers. Resources attributed to billing, customer inquiry,
collections, meter reading and other customer services currently enjoy scale benefits that
will no longer exist in a stand alone entity. For example, meter readers in a stand-alone
entity would be deployed for each gas customer, whereas under the current organization they
can be deployed to read both gas and electric
|
|
|
7 |
|
For the purpose of this analysis a customer
is considered an electric or gas interconnect, and account is considered a
party receiving a bill. For example a house that receives both electric and
gas service would count for two customers (1 electric interconnect and 1 gas
interconnect). The same house would count as one account. |
-27-
meters. The number of customer service representatives (CSRs) required by
StandAloneGasCo is anticipated to comparable to the number of CSRs required to support
PSE&Gs current gas and electric operations. In 2003, PSE&G handled over 5.2 million
customer calls with two of the largest types of inquiries relating to general billing
questions (50%) and appliance-service-related calls (25%). Because
StandAloneGasCo would have a customer account base comparable to that of PSE&G and since all of the appliance
service calls would be the responsibility of StandAloneGasCo, it is expected that the new
company would experience similar call volumes as those currently experienced by PSE&G. In
addition, StandAloneGasCo would staff the sixteen Walk-in Customer Service Centers located
across its service territory in New Jersey. These facilities are currently shared with
PSE&Gs electric business.
Gas
Operations Gas operations staffing, with few
exceptions, would remain as it
exists currently. Gas operations estimated staffing would increase from 2,439 positions to
2,627 positions in StandAloneGasCo. This small increase would be driven primarily by incremental
resources in certain field support functions. PSE&G and PECO gas operations maintain
separate service territories, mitigating most opportunities to seek consolidation benefits
under StandAloneGasCo. Employees engaged in construction and maintenance, gas services,
meter repair and other field functions would be assumed to perform the same services in
StandAloneGasCo at the same staffing levels and labor cost. Existing bargaining unit
contracts are assumed to remain in place.
-28-
Additionally, PSE&Gs appliance services group remains unchanged and would be unaffected by
the divestiture.
Where integrated gas and electric resources existed under the predecessor companies,
incremental resources were estimated. For example, resources supporting the service
centers, warehouses, dispatch and training functions would require additional resources to
support StandAloneGasCo. Currently, employees are shared between gas and electric
operations when appropriate. For example, during the winter months when the gas utility
is busiest, PSE&G electric utility employees will assist the gas utility with
turn-on/turn-off orders. Additionally, on certain projects that require the mark-out of
utility owned infrastructure the gas utility will receive assistance from electric
employees. The estimated incremental resources required to perform these shared activities
(i.e., turn on/off, mark out) and other support functions (i.e., training, warehousing, and
testing) have been included in the StandAloneGasCo baseline.
The gas supply function is handled differently by each of the utilities. PECO has
dedicated staff to purchase inventory, manage transportation contracts, and optimize the
utilitys fuel portfolio while PSE&G has entered into a requirements contract with its
energy trading affiliate under which the affiliate is responsible for providing supply and
managing the utilitys fuel portfolio. It is assumed that StandAloneGasCo would perform
the gas supply function within the regulated structure requiring incremental resources to
bring the current PSE&G gas supply function within the utility.
-29-
Once the PSE&G standalone base case was established, the incremental staffing levels to
support PECOs gas operations were included to build to a StandAloneGasCo staffing total
per functional category. The incremental staffing was based on PECOs relative size of
StandAloneGasCo. 8
For the gas operations portion of StandAloneGasCo, PECOs gas operations baseline was added
to PSEGs StandAloneGasCo base case to reflect the assumption that the separate service
territories mitigate any consolidation opportunities.
Table 8 summarizes the StandAloneGasCo staffing model for each functional category as a
result of the approach described earlier.
|
|
|
8 |
|
PECO incremental staffing was calculated at
20% of PSEGs staffing by revenue, assets and customers. |
-30-
Table 8 StandAloneGasCo Staffing
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Labor Function |
|
StandAIone GasCo |
|
% of Total |
Exec / Govern / Legal |
|
|
65 |
|
|
|
1.3 |
% |
Finance & Accounting |
|
|
116 |
|
|
|
2.3 |
% |
Gov / Reg/ Env Affairs |
|
|
43 |
|
|
|
0.8 |
% |
Human Resources |
|
|
76 |
|
|
|
1.5 |
% |
Information Technology |
|
|
192 |
|
|
|
3.8 |
% |
Communications |
|
|
28 |
|
|
|
0.5 |
% |
Supply |
|
|
149 |
|
|
|
2.9 |
% |
Support Services |
|
|
134 |
|
|
|
2.6 |
% |
Corporate |
|
|
803 |
|
|
|
15.7 |
% |
Customer Services |
|
|
1,616 |
|
|
|
31.6 |
% |
Retail Mrktng & Sales |
|
|
65 |
|
|
|
1.3 |
% |
Customer Operations |
|
|
1,681 |
|
|
|
32.9 |
% |
Gas Distribution |
|
|
1,766 |
|
|
|
34.6 |
% |
Appliance Services |
|
|
861 |
|
|
|
16.8 |
% |
Gas Operations |
|
|
2,627 |
|
|
|
51.4 |
% |
Total |
|
|
5,111 |
|
|
|
100.0 |
% |
Incremental Labor Cost Development
Once the StandAloneGasCo staffing model was finalized, the incremental staffing
requirements were calculated as the difference between the combined gas baseline and
StandAloneGasCo. To determine incremental labor cost, salary figures were estimated for
StandAloneGasCo based on the weighted average salaries and incentives for PECO and PSE&G.
Salaries were estimated for each functional category and then loaded for benefits and taxes
to determine a fully loaded salary cost. This average loaded salary for each functional
staffing category was calculated
-31-
based on the weighted 2005 salaries of PSEG and PECO. Multiplying these average loaded
salaries by the incremental positions yields the incremental labor costs as illustrated in
Table 9. Total incremental labor costs are estimated to be approximately $134 million.
Table 9 Incremental Labor Cost
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Combined |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Baseline |
|
StandAloneGas |
|
Incremental |
|
Avg. Salaries |
|
Incremental Labor Cost |
Labor Function |
|
Positions |
|
Co Positions |
|
Staffing Positions |
|
($000s) |
|
($000s) |
Exec / Govern / Legal |
|
|
33 |
|
|
|
65 |
|
|
|
32 |
|
|
$ |
300 |
|
|
$ |
9,600 |
|
Finance & Accounting |
|
|
59 |
|
|
|
116 |
|
|
|
57 |
|
|
$ |
130 |
|
|
$ |
7,428 |
|
Gov / Reg/ Env Affairs |
|
|
55 |
|
|
|
43 |
|
|
|
(12 |
) |
|
$ |
155 |
|
|
$ |
(1,855 |
) |
Human Resources |
|
|
51 |
|
|
|
76 |
|
|
|
25 |
|
|
$ |
146 |
|
|
$ |
3,645 |
|
Information Technology |
|
|
132 |
|
|
|
192 |
|
|
|
60 |
|
|
$ |
126 |
|
|
$ |
7,570 |
|
Communications |
|
|
26 |
|
|
|
28 |
|
|
|
2 |
|
|
$ |
141 |
|
|
$ |
283 |
|
Supply |
|
|
122 |
|
|
|
149 |
|
|
|
27 |
|
|
$ |
140 |
|
|
$ |
3,776 |
|
Support Services |
|
|
31 |
|
|
|
134 |
|
|
|
103 |
|
|
$ |
123 |
|
|
$ |
12,660 |
|
Corporate |
|
|
509 |
|
|
|
803 |
|
|
|
294 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
43,109 |
|
Customer Services |
|
|
757 |
|
|
|
1,616 |
|
|
|
859 |
|
|
$ |
77 |
|
|
$ |
66,059 |
|
Retail Marketing & Sales |
|
|
33 |
|
|
|
65 |
|
|
|
32 |
|
|
$ |
100 |
|
|
$ |
3,209 |
|
Customer Operations |
|
|
790 |
|
|
|
1,681 |
|
|
|
891 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
69,268 |
|
Gas Distribution |
|
|
1,578 |
|
|
|
1,766 |
|
|
|
188 |
|
|
$ |
118 |
|
|
$ |
22,184 |
|
Appliance Services |
|
|
861 |
|
|
|
861 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
Gas Operations |
|
|
2,439 |
|
|
|
2,627 |
|
|
|
188 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
22,184 |
|
Total |
|
|
3,738 |
|
|
|
5,111 |
|
|
|
1,373 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
134,561 |
|
B. Incremental Non-labor Costs
Similar to the labor analysis, non-labor impacts were assessed across the corporate,
customer operations and gas operations functions.
-32-
Corporate
The
creation of StandAloneGasCo would result in incremental non-labor costs related to
corporate functions, programs, and initiatives that would be required to establish and operate
the company. Table 10 summarizes these corporate incremental costs.
Table 10 Corporate Incremental Costs
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recurring O&M Costs |
|
Implementation |
Cost Category |
|
($M) |
|
Capital Costs ($M) |
Board of Directors |
|
$ |
0.9 |
|
|
|
|
|
Professional Services |
|
$ |
5.7 |
|
|
|
|
|
Insurance |
|
$ |
2.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
Shareholder Services |
|
$ |
3.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
Advertising |
|
$ |
2.5 |
|
|
|
|
|
Corporate Facilities |
|
$ |
2.7 |
|
|
|
|
|
Interest Expense |
|
$ |
7.4 |
|
|
|
|
|
General &
Administrative |
|
$ |
5.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
Benefits
Administration |
|
$ |
.6 |
|
|
|
|
|
Information Technology |
|
$ |
3.1 |
|
|
$ |
121.5 |
|
Total |
|
$ |
33.6 |
|
|
$ |
121.5 |
|
-33-
Board of Directors
StandAloneGasCo would be required to establish an independent Board of Directors to serve
the shareholders. Exelon and PSEG currently have 13 and 9 directors, respectively.
StandAloneGasCos board is assumed at 10 total directors with a CEO and 9 outside
directors. Using the blended average cost per outside director results in annual costs of
$1.1 million. The two gas businesses currently are allocated $0.2 million resulting in
annual incremental costs of $0.9 million.
Professional Services
StandAloneGasCo would require an independent external audit to meet SEC registrant
requirements and comply with Sarbanes-Oxley. These fees were estimated based on a review
of Exelon and PSEG audit and audit-related fees (Sarbanes, financings, and other audit
related costs) and industry benchmark data for audit fees for similarly sized
companies.9 The estimated audit and audit related fees for StandAloneGasCo are
$8.0 million. The two gas companies currently are allocated $2.3 million of audit fees
resulting in annual incremental costs of $5.7 million.
Insurance
StandAloneGasCo would independently source insurance to support the new business in the
areas of property, directors and officers, and excess liability. Based on an
|
|
|
9 |
|
Financial Executive International study of
217 public companies with average annual revenues of $5 Billion |
-34-
analysis of asset levels, size, and corporate and business risk assumed, an estimate of
$5.0 million was assumed for the three policy types described above. The two gas companies
currently are allocated $2.8 million of insurance costs resulting in annual incremental
costs of $2.2 million.
Shareholder Services
The new shareholder base would require proxy, registration filing fees, and stock transfer
services. Additionally, an annual report and annual meeting would be held. Communication
costs will be increased to communicate with Wall Street analysts covering the company.
Using Exelon and PSEG baseline spend and scaling these costs to a company the size of
StandAloneGasCo results in an estimate of $4.1 million. The two gas companies currently
are allocated $0.9 million, resulting in annual incremental costs of $3.2 million.
Advertising
Currently both of the Companies have advertising campaigns to increase corporate brand
awareness and establish goodwill in their respective jurisdictions. In addition, the
individual utilities also have advertising campaigns that further the goal of customer
awareness programs related to safety and reliability. For example, PECO has an estimated
$2.2 million advertising budget that is in addition to its parent companys advertising
program. It is assumed that StandAloneGasCo would also have a similar advertising program.
The cost of StandAloneGasCos advertising program is estimated to be equal to the portion
of PSEGs overall advertising budget
-35-
that is allocated to the regulated business (approximately $1.5 million) plus an allocation
of the current PECO Energy advertising budget. StandAloneGasCos total advertising budget
is estimated to be $3.4 million. The result is an incremental $2.5 million of advertising
costs for StandAloneGasCo.
Corporate Facilities
A single,
common facility would be required to house corporate and administrative positions.
As discussed earlier, Newark is the assumed headquarters location. Facilities costs were
assumed using current market lease rates in Newark and an estimated number of centralized
corporate personnel at an average square footage per person. It is estimated that
StandAloneGasCo would have 317 more FTEs in corporate roles than the combined baseline of
PECO gas and PSE&G gas.10 The cost of customer operations and field operations
facilities are included in their respective sections of the document. Based on these
assumptions, corporate facilities costs were estimated at $6.5 million. This is an
incremental increase of approximately $2.7 million per year.
Interest Expense
As mentioned earlier in this analysis StandAloneGasCo would raise new debt and equity to
capitalize the company. Based on the assumed capital structure, StandAloneGasCo would have
approximately $1.4 billion of debt. We have assumed
|
|
|
10 |
|
For the purposes of this calculation certain
Supply FTEs were assumed not to require corporate facilities because they would
most likely be located in the field. |
-36-
interest rates associated with an investment grade local distribution company. As a
result, StandAloneGasCo would incur approximately $7.4 million in incremental interest
expense.
General & Administrative
The creation of StandAloneGasCo would require a significant increase in the number of
corporate and administrative positions required to support the new company. Specifically,
it is estimated that there would be 317 new corporate and administrative
personnel.11 In addition to the increased labor costs there would be an
increase in general and administrative costs to support the increase staffing levels.
These general and administrative costs which are estimated to be approximately $16,400 per
FTE, consisting of business travel, entertainment, seminars, office supplies, and other
miscellaneous costs. The incremental impact associated with the increased general and
administrative costs is approximately $5.2 million.
Benefits Administration
Although the existing benefits plans are assumed to remain in place in StandAloneGasCo,
incremental costs would be incurred to administer the benefits plans. The cost was assumed
to vary proportionally to the increase in the number of positions in the new company. The
amount of incremental resources (1,373 FTEs)
|
|
|
11 |
|
For the purposes of this calculation a
portion of Supply FTEs were assumed not to require corporate facilities because
they would most likely be located in the field. |
-37-
was multiplied by PSEGs average benefits administration cost per FTE of $457, resulting in
incremental benefits administration costs of $.6 million.
Information Technology
PSE&Gs and PECOs gas businesses currently utilize the Information Technology (IT)
support services, hardware, software, and network of their respective parent companies.
StandAloneGasCo would be required to develop and maintain its own IT
infrastructure. Some applications that are currently used solely to support the Companies
natural gas operations are assumed to be transferred to StandAloneGasCo and therefore
result in little, if any, incremental cost. However, StandAloneGasCo would require
significant new investment in key information systems that are essential to support its
business including (i) the ERP system used to capture and report out on key financial and
human resource information, (ii) the Customer Information System (CIS) used to track and
monitor customer inquires and develop bills for natural gas service and, (iii) the
infrastructure required to support these applications as well as other business functions.
Enterprise Resource Planning
For the purpose of this analysis it was assumed that SAP would be StandAloneGasCos ERP
platform since SAP is currently in use at PSEG and therefore would be the most cost
effective technology to implement. Implementation costs were developed for the acquisition
of the required software, migration of data, and implementation of these systems based on
PSEGs prior experience implementing
-38-
SAP. The historical implementation costs were adjusted downward to reflect several
considerations: 1) PSEGs experience and knowledge gained in prior implementations, 2) the
requirement to migrate only the gas businesses financial and human resources information,
and 3) the limited modifications that would be required to data elements. Cost estimates
were also developed for the addition of PECOs gas business to the ERP platform. As a
result, the costs associated with the development and configuration of the ERP system for
StandAloneGasCo are estimated at $44.9 million.
Customer Information System
It was assumed that PSEGs current platform would be used as StandAloneGasCos CIS
platform. An initial cost was developed to procure the required hardware and software and
to migrate the customer information associated with PSEGs gas business to
StandAloneGasCos new CIS system. Again, the historical implementation costs were adjusted
downward to reflect the companys prior experience implementing a similar system. Finally,
the cost to migrate the customer information associated with PECOs gas business was
developed based on the need for additional seat licenses, number of customer records,
complexity of data, and need to train new users. As a result, the costs associated with
the development and configuration of the CIS system for StandAloneGasCo are estimated at
$62.9 million.
A similar methodology was used to develop cost estimates for other applications that would
be required by the StandAloneGasCo. These other applications include gas
-39-
applications (Gas Services System, Mark Out System, eApplications, etc.). Costs associated
with the development and configurations of these applications are estimated to be $4.7
million.
Infrastructure
In addition to the IT platforms listed above, StandAloneGasCo would be required to make a
significant investment in infrastructure to support its operations. Investment would be
required for a data center, hardware (routers, switches, PC, servers, etc.), PBX
infrastructure, and networking, as well as a range of other areas. The cost of this
infrastructure is estimated at $7.6 million based on the companys prior experience
implementing these platforms.
Finally, there would be incremental costs associated with non-application products such as
communications, business support, and desk top support. These incremental costs are
estimated to be approximately $5.6 million.
StandAloneGasCos total cost to procure and implement the IT systems and infrastructure is
estimated at $125.8 million as summarized in Table 11. Currently approximately $4 million
of existing IT applications book value is allocated to the PSE&G and PECO gas operations
resulting in a net incremental capital cost for StandAloneGasCo of approximately $121.5
million.
-40-
Table 11 IT Implementation Costs
|
|
|
|
|
IT
Cost Category |
|
Implementation
Capital Costs ($M) |
Applications |
|
$ |
112.6 |
|
Infrastructure |
|
$ |
7.6 |
|
Other Non-Application Products |
|
$ |
5.6 |
|
Total |
|
$ |
125.8 |
|
In addition to the one-time capital costs associated with creation of a new IT environment,
StandAloneGasCo would have recurring O&M and capital costs associated with ongoing
operations. It is assumed that the current annual aggregate IT spend of the existing gas
operations will continue after StandAloneGasCo is formed with a few exceptions. It is
estimated that there would be increases to the O&M costs associated with the CIS
environment. These costs are estimated to be approximately $3.1 million per year.
Customer Operations
The creation of StandAloneGasCo will result in incremental non-labor costs related to
customer operations functions, programs, and initiatives that are required to establish and
operate the company. Currently both, PECOs and PSE&Gs customer service organizations
support both the gas and electric operations of the companies. As a result StandAloneGasCo
would have to recreate certain portions of the existing
-41-
customer service infrastructure, and duplicate tasks that are currently performed only once
for gas and electric customers.
The primary parts of customer operations that were analyzed for incremental non-labor costs
were (i) Cash / Bill Processing, (ii) Customer Inquiry, and (iii) Meter Reading. Table 12
summarizes the estimated incremental non-labor costs associated with customer operations.
Table 12 Customer Operations Incremental Non-labor Costs
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Incremental Cost |
|
Recurring O&M Costs |
|
Implementation |
Category |
|
($M) |
|
Capital Costs ($M) |
Cash / Bill Processing |
|
$ |
6.3 |
|
|
|
|
|
Customer Inquiry |
|
$ |
.9 |
|
|
$ |
14.9 |
|
Meter Reading |
|
$ |
.8 |
|
|
$ |
3.0 |
|
Total |
|
$ |
8.0 |
|
|
$ |
17.9 |
|
Cash / Bill Processing
Virtually all of the 460,000 PECO gas customers and 80% of PSE&Gs 1.7 million gas
customers also receive electric service from their sister electric utility. Each month
these customers receive one bill that contains both gas and electric information. Because
of the joint billing structure, the current gas utilities are only responsible for half of
the postage associated with the billing function. StandAloneGasCo would no longer benefit
from sharing the burden of the cost of
-42-
postage with the electric operations and would have an incremental postage expense of
approximately $4.3 million dollars per year.
It is assumed that the higher operating expenses of StandAloneGasCo would be recoverable
through higher rates charged to its customers. As a result of the higher revenues
associated with these higher rates, it is expected that StandAloneGasCo would have
incremental bad debt exposure. If StandAloneGasCo experienced the same number of customers
defaults as PECO and PSE&Gs gas operations, its bad debt expense would be higher because
each customers bill is assumed to be higher based on higher rates. For the combined gas
operations the uncollectible account expense is approximately .81% of revenues. Based on
the incremental revenue requirement it is estimated that StandAloneGasCo would have $2.0
million of incremental costs from uncollectible accounts.
Customer Inquiry
Currently each company operates call center(s) that supports both their gas and electric
customer service operations. StandAloneGasCo would need to develop
its own call center that would support both its Pennsylvania and New Jersey customers. The cost of a new call center was
estimated by using industry benchmarks for the number of CSRs required to support a
similarly sized utility and interviews with vendors who specialize in building customer
service facilities. Total capital costs for the new call center are estimated to be $20.4
million versus the allocated current book value of the
-43-
existing facility of $5.6 million resulting in total incremental capital costs of $14.9
million.
In addition, PSE&G offers its customers the option of walking into one of its 16 customer
service centers to pay their bill or to get other types of customer support. It is assumed
that StandAloneGasCo would recreate these service centers in the New Jersey service
territory to continue to offer customers the convenience of local payment and service
centers. It is estimated that the incremental annual cost associated with leasing
comparable space is approximately $.9 million.
Meter Reading
PECO currently employs Automated Meter Reading (AMR) technology through an outsourcing
arrangement. This arrangement provides for a fee per meter read with separate fees for gas
and electric meters. It was assumed that the gas portion of this contract would be
assigned to StandAloneGasCos Pennsylvania customers and therefore no incremental costs are
estimated.
PSEGs meter reading process is performed on an integrated basis with individuals reading
both gas and electric meters for those customers receiving both services. The primary
incremental costs associated with meter reading after the creation of StandAloneGasCo is
the labor component, which is captured earlier in the analysis. There are non-labor
incremental costs associated with meter reading, most notably the fleet supporting the
meter reading function. The customer operations organization currently uses 425 vehicles to
carry out meter reading as well as other customer
-44-
service functions.12 As mentioned earlier approximately 80% of PSEGs gas
customers also receive electric service. Therefore StandAloneGasCo
would need to acquire /
lease a fleet of its own vehicles to support its customer operations activities. This
would result in an investment of $3.8 million and add $3.0 million to the rate base after
deducting the amount of fleet costs currently allocated to the gas business. In addition,
there would be incremental O&M costs associated with operating this fleet since the costs
of items such as fuel, insurance, etc. will no longer be shared with the electric utility.
It is expected that this increase would result in incremental O&M costs of $.8 million per
year.
Gas Operations
The creation of StandAloneGasCo would result in incremental non-labor costs related to the
gas operations functions, programs, and initiatives that are required to establish and
operate the company. For the most part, PSE&Gs natural gas field operations are managed
separately from PSE&Gs electric field operations with separate staffing, facilities, and
fleet. PECOs natural gas and electric operations are more tightly integrated and
therefore are expected to result in higher incremental non-labor costs.
|
|
|
12 |
|
Not all of customer operations
vehicles are used for meter reading, but the all incremental fleet costs are
included in the meter reading section. |
-45-
The primary non-labor gas operations reviewed were: (1) Materials and Supplies, (2) Fleet
and (3) Facilities. Table 13 summarizes the estimated incremental non-labor costs
associated with gas operations.
Table 13 Gas Operations Incremental Non-labor Costs
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Implementation Capital |
Cost Category |
|
Recurring O&M Costs ($M) |
|
Costs ($M) |
Supply Chain |
|
|
($0.4 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Fleet |
|
|
$ .2 |
|
|
|
|
|
Facilities |
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
7.9 |
|
Total |
|
|
($.2 |
) |
|
$ |
7.9 |
|
Supply Chain
Currently PECOs and PSE&Gs supply chain receive the benefits of being part of a larger
organization with materials and supply prices based on this integrated consumption level.
Under most circumstances divesting a business unit can lead to increased costs for both
entities due to the reduced pricing leverage related to a smaller overall spend. However,
most of the goods and services procured by PECOs and PSE&Gs gas utilities are distinct
from those materials used by the electric utilities (e.g., electric transformers vs. gas
pipes/valves). There is some overlap in the purchase of commodity products (e.g., tools,
safety equipment, etc.) between the gas and electric utilities. The lost economies
associated with StandAloneGasCos
-46-
purchasing power compared to that of the individual companies was deemed negligible;
however, approximately $.4 million of purchasing synergies were identified related to
combining PECOs and PSEGs gas distribution equipment purchases and therefore are
considered a benefit from the divestiture.
Fleet
PSE&Gs gas business maintains it own fleet of vehicles and has virtually no overlap with
the electric utilitys fleet operations, with the exception being a limited number of
personnel at the corporate garages. It is assumed that PSE&Gs gas fleet and related costs
will be transferred to StandAloneGasCo.
PECOs gas business also has its own fleet of vehicles that support its field operations.
This fleet consists of over 220 vehicles, some of which are leased and some of which are
owned by the company. It is assumed that these vehicles would be transferred to
StandAloneGasCo and result in no incremental costs.
PECO outsources fleet maintenance to a third-party contractor, while PSE&G maintains its
fleet with internal resources. The annual amount of PECOs fleet maintenance contract is
$5.1 million of which only 17% is allocated to gas. It is assumed that StandAloneGasCo
would have to re-negotiate the terms of this agreement since vehicles would no longer be
garaged with electric vehicles and the smaller fleet size would result in diminished
economies of scale for the vendor. This is estimated to result in $.2 million in
incremental non-labor costs.
-47-
Field Facilities
PSE&Gs gas field operations generally have dedicated facilities that are used to support
the gas business only while PECOs gas business shares virtually all of its field
operations facilities with its sister electric utility because of the substantial overlap
in gas and electric service territories.
It is assumed that all of the PSE&G gas operations field facilities would be transferred to
StandAloneGasCo and the field facilities that support PECOs gas operations would need to
be recreated.
PECOs gross book value of total common plant (plant shared by both gas and electric
utilities) is approximately $501 million, with approximately 20.5% or $103 million
allocated to the gas utility. Of this amount, $18.6 million are field
facilities.13 StandAloneGasCo will need to build or procure equivalent
facilities to support its Pennsylvania field operations. The cost of new facilities is
estimated to be $21.7 million which is approximately $7.9 million higher than the
depreciated book value of the gas portion of the existing PECO facilities.14
Depreciation
As a result of the incremental capital investments required to create StandAloneGasCo, the
new company would have increased depreciation expense.
|
|
|
13 |
|
Total structures and improvements for gas
and electric are $215 million; however for the purpose of this analysis
PECOs Main Office Building value of $124 million was not included as
corporate headquarter facility; these costs are allocated elsewhere in the
analysis. |
|
14 |
|
Replacement value was estimated using
insurance value estimates for representative service buildings. |
-48-
Investments are assumed to be depreciated at rates consistent with their asset class,
resulting in $33.2 million in incremental deprecation expense.
C. Transition Costs
The
creation of StandAloneGasCo would require the incurrence of specific advisory costs to
support this transaction. For the purpose of this analysis, all of these transition costs
were assumed to be amortized over a ten-year period and the associated annual impact was
included in the lost economies calculation. Table 14 summarizes the estimated transition
costs.
Table 14 Incremental Transition Costs
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Annual Amortized |
($M) |
|
Total Costs Incurred |
|
Impact |
Equity Issuance Costs |
|
$ |
50.0 |
|
|
$ |
5.0 |
|
Debt Issuance Costs |
|
$ |
10.7 |
|
|
$ |
1.0 |
|
Other External Advisory Costs |
|
$ |
8.0 |
|
|
$ |
.8 |
|
Integration Costs &
Incremental Travel |
|
$ |
6.9 |
|
|
$ |
.7 |
|
Communication |
|
$ |
9.0 |
|
|
$ |
.9 |
|
Total |
|
$ |
84.6 |
|
|
$ |
8.4 |
|
Equity Issuance Costs
-49-
As described in Appendix 4, the capital structure of StandAloneGasCo is estimated at
approximately 49% equity which is consistent with other standalone gas local distribution
companies and with local jurisdiction authorized capital structures. The formation of this
equity would require significant assistance from investment bankers to structure this
transaction. Valuation assistance and fairness opinions would be required for both
predecessor companies and the Board of StandAloneGasCo. These issuance costs were
estimated at $50 million ($5.0 million annual impact) assuming a fee structure of 3.5 % of
the estimated market value of equity based on input from industry advisors and internal
company experience.
Debt Issuance Costs
As described in Appendix 4, the capital structure of StandAloneGasCo is estimated at
approximately 50% debt, which is consistent with other local gas distribution companies and
with local jurisdiction authorized capital structures. Sufficient electric assets exist to
support the current debt at both utilities, therefore debt currently existing at PECO and
PSE&G was assumed to remain in place. The issuances costs associated with this debt are
assumed to be $10.7 million ($1 million annual impact) assuming a fee structure of .75 % of
the total issuance based on input from industry advisors and internal company experience.
Other Transaction Advisory Costs
-50-
Legal and consulting fees were also estimated to assist StandAloneGasCo with due diligence,
valuation, and legal formation issues related to this transaction. Total fees of $8
million ($0.8 million annual impact) were estimated based on input from industry advisors
and internal company experience.
Integration Costs and Incremental Travel
The
formation of StandAloneGasCo would require the development of a new business model,
organization design, benefit plans, and business policies and procedures, among others.
Although this new organization benefits from the existing structures of each predecessor
company, external support would likely be required to stand up this organization.
Additionally, incremental travel costs would be incurred for transition teams from each of
the predecessor companies as they create the new organization. Costs were estimated at
$6.9 million ($0.7 million annual impact) based on company experience with other
integration programs.
Communication Costs
StandAloneGasCo would incur expenditures related to the education and awareness of
customers, suppliers, and employees as it becomes a distinct entity separate from its
predecessor companies. Costs of $9.0 million ($.9 million annual impact) were estimated
for external mailings, bill inserts, print ads, new signage, and external assistance.
-51-
V. ELECTRIC CUSTOMER IMPACTS
A
significant portion of the costs that are shared between the gas and electric
operations would upon divestiture of PSE&Gs and PECOs gas businesses be fully borne by
the electric business, since a significant proportion of the cost structure is fixed. For
example, a finance position that previously supported both the electric and gas business
would support only the remaining electric business. This position could either be
eliminated or, more likely, would support the remaining electric business resulting in an
increase in costs to the electric business.
The overall impact on electric customers related to the divestiture of gas operations by
the Companies is an increase of $160 million in operating costs and an addition of $24
million in capital costs.
The labor and non-labor impacts to electric customers are summarized in the following
analysis.
Incremental Labor Impact to Electric Customers
The shared services labor model provides PSE&G and PECO labor efficiencies that would be
lost with the creation of StandAloneGasCo. For example, in the case of PECO, there are 21
FTEs providing Finance & Accounting corporate services to the gas operations, as detailed
earlier. Of these 21 FTEs only seven are dedicated to supporting PECO gas operations, with
the remainder providing services to PECO
- 52 -
electric operations, as well as other business units. The number of FTEs dedicated to
natural gas operations was calculated by determining the number of FTEs dedicated to
supporting PECOs electric and gas operations, then allocating FTEs to the gas and electric
utilities based on historical allocation methodologies used at PECO Energy (83% electric,
17% gas). To calculate the labor cost impact on electric customers, only FTEs dedicated to
gas operations were transferred to StandAloneGasCo. The remaining FTEs would remain as
resources dedicated to the electric utility. PECOs remaining electric operations would
incur an incremental burden of 72 PECO corporate FTEs with an estimated annual cost of
$9.95 million.
Virtually all of PECO gas customers also receive electric service, so it is assumed that
the electric utility would require the same number of customer service personnel currently
used to support the combined gas and electric operations. As a result, the incremental
labor costs associated with PECO customer service operations is approximately $5.9 million.
A different approach was used to determine incremental costs associated with PSE&Gs labor
resources. Given the relatively equal size of PSE&Gs gas and electric operations and the
method for allocating corporate costs, it was assumed that FTEs supporting all non-gas
operations would be sufficient to support PSE&Gs remaining operations. As a result it is
assumed that there are no incremental labor costs for electric customers associated with
PSEGs corporate functions.
- 53 -
However, there are significant incremental labor costs for PSE&Gs electric customers
associated with the customer service operations. Approximately 80% of PSE&G gas customers
receive electric service. Under existing operations the costs of the FTEs serving these
customers are shared by both gas and electric operations. If the
Commission requires the creation of StandAloneGasCo,
PSE&Gs electric operations would require CSRs that are dedicated to
electric operations and will no longer be shared with gas operations. Due the similar size
of PSEGs gas and electric customer base, the significant overlap in customers, and the
fact that the majority of customer calls are general billing inquiries (not specific to gas
or electric) it is assumed that the electric utility will require a comparable number of
customer service personnel as are currently used to support the combined gas and electric
operations. With the creation of StandAloneGasCo, PSE&Gs electric operations would incur
the cost of 475 customer service personnel that were previously allocated to gas. The
incremental labor costs associated with the customer service operations that would be borne
by PSE&G electric customers is approximately $34.7 million.
Table 15 summarizes the impact on electric customers associated with incremental labor costs
resulting from the divestiture of the gas operations.
Table 15 Electric Customer Impact Labor
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
($M) |
|
PECO Impact |
|
|
PSEG Impact |
|
|
Total Impact |
|
Total |
|
$ |
15.9 |
|
|
$ |
34.7 |
|
|
$ |
50.6 |
|
- 54 -
Incremental Non-labor Impact to Electric Customers
In addition to the lost economies associated with labor, non-labor lost economies would be
incurred by PECOs and PSEGs electric customers as result of the creation of
StandAloneGasCo. An example of an incremental O&M non-labor cost that would be borne by
the electric operation after the creation of StandAloneGasCo is the cost for the Exelon and
PSEGs Board of Directors. It is assumed that the size of the board would not change from
the divestiture of the gas businesses; however, Board of Directors costs would no longer be
allocated to the gas business. The majority of fixed corporate costs
that are currently paid
by gas customers would become the responsibility of electric customers after the creation
of StandAloneGasCo.
As noted earlier, StandAloneGasCo would be required to replace certain portions of its
infrastructure (e.g. information technology platform, call center, and field operation
facilities) that are currently shared under the existing operating model. Table 2
summarizes the non-labor incremental costs that would be absorbed by PECOs and PSE&Gs
electric operations as a result of the divestiture of the gas operations (see
Appendix 9 for additional detail). These costs include board of
directors, professional services, insurance, advertising, shareholder services, corporate
facilities, interest expense, customer operations expense, and field operations expense.
- 55 -
Table 16 Non-labor Incremental Electric Impact
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Incremental Cost |
|
Recurring O&M |
|
|
|
Category |
|
Costs ($M) |
|
Capital Costs ($M) |
|
|
|
|
PECO |
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
$ |
17.4 |
|
|
$ |
13.8 |
|
|
|
|
PSEG |
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
$ |
92.0 |
|
|
$ |
10.6 |
|
Combined
Total |
|
$ |
109.4 |
|
|
$ |
24.4 |
|
- 56 -
VI. OTHER IMPACTS
There
would be additional financial and non-financial costs associated with
the required
divestment of the gas businesses other than the customer rate and shareholder impacts that
have been detailed earlier in this analysis.
Lost Synergy Opportunity
The companies have estimated approximately $19 million in annual net savings allocated to
the gas businesses in 2009 (fourth year of merger) that flow from the merger between Exelon
and PSEG. Table 3 summarizes these savings.
Table 17 Lost Gas Synergy Opportunity Resulting from Exelon-PSEG Merger
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$M |
|
2006 |
|
|
2007 |
|
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
Labor Synergies |
|
$ |
7.5 |
|
|
$ |
13.3 |
|
|
$ |
15.0 |
|
|
$ |
16.3 |
|
Non-labor Synergies |
|
$ |
7.7 |
|
|
$ |
10.6 |
|
|
$ |
12.5 |
|
|
$ |
13.4 |
|
Cost To Achieve |
|
$ |
(29.0 |
) |
|
$ |
(18.2 |
) |
|
$ |
(13.3 |
) |
|
$ |
(10.6 |
) |
Total |
|
$ |
(13.8 |
) |
|
$ |
5.8 |
|
|
$ |
14.2 |
|
|
$ |
19.1 |
|
Divesting the gas businesses would mitigate the opportunity for the gas utilities to
realize these merger savings.
- 57 -
Other Customer Impacts
Customers will also incur additional postage expenses. Currently PECO
and PSE&G gas and electric customers receive one bill for both gas and
electric service only and submit one payment to their service
provider. Approximately 460,000 PECO customers and 1,360,000 PSE&G
customers receive a combined bill. After the creation of
StandAloneGasCo customers would no longer have the option of paying a
combined gas and electric bill and would have to submit two payments.
This results in customers potentially incurring incremental postage
costs of approximately $8.5 million.
The divestiture would require customers to transact with a new
organization to establish new accounts, report trouble, or terminate
or transfer existing service. Both PECO and PSE&G have been able to
develop their own brand awareness and relationship with customers over
many years. The creation of the new organization would add additional
burdens on customers that otherwise would not exist.
VII CONCLUSION
The
divestiture of PECOs and PSE&Gs gas operations if
required by the Commission and
the creation of StandAloneGasCo would result in significant lost
economies due to the elimination of labor and non-labor efficiencies
currently realized under the current integrated models. The
organizational structures of Exelon and PSEG and the highly integrated
nature of core functional areas such as corporate support and customer
service have benefited customers in Pennsylvania and New Jersey for
many years. Based on the
analysis contained in this filing, the creation of StandAloneGasCo would eliminate these
efficiencies and cause substantial economic hardship to electric and gas customers as well
as the shareholders of all companies involved, while providing no indicated benefit to the
public.