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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D. C. 20549
 
FORM 10-Q

[ X ]
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 or 15 (d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the Quarter Ended December 31, 2011
OR
[     ]
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 or 15 (d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the Transition Period from ­__________ to __________

Commission File Number 1-1822

Laclede Gas Logo
LACLEDE GAS COMPANY
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 
Missouri
(State of Incorporation)
43-0368139
(I.R.S. Employer Identification number)
 
 720 Olive Street
St. Louis, MO  63101
(Address and zip code of principal executive offices)
 
314-342-0500
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
 
Indicate by check mark if the registrant:

(1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such report) and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes [ X ] No [     ]

has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes [ X ] No [     ]

is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
 
 
Large accelerated filer
[     ]
 
Accelerated filer
[     ]
 
Non-accelerated filer
[ X ]
 
Smaller reporting company
[     ]

is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes [     ] No [ X ]

As of January 26, 2012, there were 11,728 shares of the registrant’s Common Stock, par value $1.00 per share, outstanding, 100% of which were owned by The Laclede Group, Inc.


 








PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

The interim financial statements included herein have been prepared by Laclede Gas Company (Laclede Gas or the Utility), without audit, pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission. These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and the notes thereto included in the Utility’s Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2011.





LACLEDE GAS COMPANY
 (UNAUDITED)

   
Three Months Ended
 
   
December 31,
 
(Thousands)
 
2011
 
2010
 
               
Operating Revenues:
             
  Utility
 
$
250,902
 
$
277,443
 
  Other
   
1,081
   
 
        Total Operating Revenues
   
251,983
   
277,443
 
Operating Expenses:
             
  Utility
             
    Natural and propane gas
   
146,751
   
173,365
 
    Other operation expenses
   
37,565
   
34,862
 
    Maintenance
   
5,308
   
6,140
 
    Depreciation and amortization
   
10,089
   
9,638
 
    Taxes, other than income taxes
   
14,667
   
15,748
 
        Total Utility Operating Expenses
   
214,380
   
239,753
 
  Other
   
81
   
5
 
        Total Operating Expenses
   
214,461
   
239,758
 
Operating Income
   
37,522
   
37,685
 
Other Income and (Income Deductions) – Net
   
1,939
   
1,815
 
Interest Charges:
             
  Interest on long-term debt
   
5,739
   
5,942
 
  Other interest charges
   
619
   
777
 
        Total Interest Charges
   
6,358
   
6,719
 
Income Before Income Taxes
   
33,103
   
32,781
 
Income Tax Expense
   
11,406
   
11,326
 
Net Income
 
$
21,697
 
$
21,455
 
               
             



STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(UNAUDITED)

   
Three Months Ended
 
   
December 31,
 
(Thousands)
 
2011
 
2010
 
               
Net Income
 
$
21,697
 
$
21,455
 
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Before Tax:
             
  Net gains (losses) on cash flow hedging derivative instruments:
             
    Net hedging gain arising during the period
   
50
   
173
 
    Reclassification adjustment for gains included in net income
   
(14
)
 
(49
)
        Net unrealized gains on cash flow hedging derivative instruments
   
36
   
124
 
   Amortization of actuarial loss included in net periodic pension and
             
     postretirement benefit cost
   
91
   
107
 
Other Comprehensive Income, Before Tax
   
127
   
231
 
Income Tax Expense Related to Items of Other Comprehensive Income
   
49
   
89
 
Other Comprehensive Income, Net of Tax
   
78
   
142
 
Comprehensive Income
 
$
21,775
 
$
21,597
 
               
             














BALANCE SHEETS
(UNAUDITED)

   
Dec. 31,
     
Sept. 30,
     
Dec. 31,
 
(Thousands)
 
2011
     
2011
     
2010
 
                             
ASSETS
                           
Utility Plant
 
$
1,400,001
     
$
1,386,590
     
$
1,338,568
 
  Less:  Accumulated depreciation and amortization
   
463,148
       
457,907
       
447,582
 
        Net Utility Plant
   
936,853
       
928,683
       
890,986
 
Other Property and Investments
   
48,859
       
46,950
       
46,332
 
                             
Current Assets:
                           
  Cash and cash equivalents
   
1,341
       
923
       
1,208
 
  Accounts receivable:
                           
    Utility
   
135,758
       
71,090
       
165,171
 
    Non-utility
   
1,865
       
1,347
       
732
 
    Associated companies
   
6,889
       
426
       
5,947
 
    Other
   
11,167
       
6,935
       
6,665
 
    Allowance for doubtful accounts
   
(5,885
)
     
(9,969
)
     
(6,628
)
  Inventories:
                           
    Natural gas stored underground at LIFO cost
   
113,668
       
115,170
       
109,171
 
    Propane gas at FIFO cost
   
8,964
       
8,961
       
16,881
 
    Materials, supplies, and merchandise at average cost
   
4,730
       
4,104
       
4,130
 
  Derivative instrument assets
   
       
4,746
       
10,415
 
  Unamortized purchased gas adjustments
   
19,413
       
25,719
       
18,136
 
  Prepayments and other
   
7,989
       
8,527
       
5,920
 
        Total Current Assets
   
305,899
       
237,979
       
337,748
 
                             
Deferred Charges:
                           
  Regulatory assets
   
458,648
       
423,492
       
453,030
 
  Other
   
5,776
       
5,942
       
7,100
 
        Total Deferred Charges
   
464,424
       
429,434
       
460,130
 
Total Assets
 
$
1,756,035
     
$
1,643,046
     
$
1,735,196
 
                             

 
 

 
 
 
 




BALANCE SHEETS (Continued)
(UNAUDITED)

   
Dec. 31,
     
Sept. 30,
     
Dec. 31,
 
(Thousands, except share amounts)
 
2011
     
2011
     
2010
 
                             
CAPITALIZATION AND LIABILITIES
                           
Capitalization:
                           
  Common stock and Paid-in capital (11,728, 11,717, and
    11,684 shares issued, respectively)
 
$
213,415
     
$
212,970
     
$
209,238
 
  Retained earnings
   
235,832
       
223,460
       
218,373
 
  Accumulated other comprehensive loss
   
(2,395
)
     
(2,473
)
     
(2,733
)
      Total Common Stock Equity
   
446,852
       
433,957
       
424,878
 
  Long-term debt  (less current portion)
   
339,372
       
364,357
       
364,313
 
      Total Capitalization
   
786,224
       
798,314
       
789,191
 
                             
Current Liabilities:
                           
  Notes payable
   
113,000
       
46,000
       
97,450
 
  Notes payable – associated companies
   
62,822
       
52,879
       
68,910
 
  Accounts payable
   
54,367
       
45,635
       
68,625
 
  Accounts payable – associated companies
   
5
       
1,730
       
5
 
  Advance customer billings
   
11,600
       
15,230
       
9,639
 
  Current portion of long-term debt
   
25,000
       
       
 
  Wages and compensation accrued
   
12,529
       
13,650
       
12,406
 
  Dividends payable
   
9,325
       
9,084
       
9,062
 
  Customer deposits
   
10,080
       
10,048
       
11,315
 
  Interest accrued
   
5,519
       
8,812
       
5,756
 
  Taxes accrued
   
14,545
       
10,038
       
18,670
 
  Deferred income taxes
   
8,204
       
9,165
       
4,159
 
  Other
   
20,900
       
9,191
       
23,781
 
      Total Current Liabilities
   
347,896
       
231,462
       
329,778
 
                             
Deferred Credits and Other Liabilities:
                           
  Deferred income taxes
   
335,176
       
315,325
       
298,176
 
  Unamortized investment tax credits
   
3,272
       
3,326
       
3,485
 
  Pension and postretirement benefit costs
   
172,791
       
185,701
       
210,642
 
  Asset retirement obligations
   
27,895
       
27,486
       
26,215
 
  Regulatory liabilities
   
51,904
       
50,846
       
47,898
 
  Other
   
30,877
       
30,586
       
29,811
 
      Total Deferred Credits and Other Liabilities
   
621,915
       
613,270
       
616,227
 
Commitments and Contingencies (Note 8)
                           
Total Capitalization and Liabilities
 
$
1,756,035
     
$
1,643,046
     
$
1,735,196
 
                             
                           
                             
                             




STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(UNAUDITED)
 
   
Three Months Ended
 
   
December 31,
 
(Thousands)
 
2011
     
2010
 
                   
Operating Activities:
                 
  Net Income
 
$
21,697
     
$
21,455
 
  Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in)
      operating activities:
                 
    Depreciation and amortization
   
10,100
       
9,638
 
    Deferred income taxes and investment tax credits
   
7,939
       
1,157
 
    Other – net
   
(672
)
     
(761
)
    Changes in assets and liabilities:
                 
      Accounts receivable – net
   
(79,965
)
     
(103,575
)
      Unamortized purchased gas adjustments
   
6,306
       
5,582
 
      Deferred purchased gas costs
   
(26,415
)
     
30,860
 
      Accounts payable
   
9,031
       
32,711
 
      Advance customer billings
   
(3,630
)
     
(7,170
)
      Taxes accrued
   
3,992
       
9,987
 
      Natural gas stored underground
   
1,502
       
4,405
 
      Other assets and liabilities
   
(11,067
)
     
(6,351
)
          Net cash used in operating activities
   
(61,182
)
     
(2,062
)
                   
Investing Activities:
                 
  Capital expenditures
   
(18,331
)
     
(15,512
)
  Other investments
   
(280
)
     
1,002
 
          Net cash used in investing activities
   
(18,611
)
     
(14,510
)
                   
Financing Activities:
                 
  Maturity of first mortgage bonds
   
       
(25,000
)
  Issuance (repayment) of short-term debt - net
   
67,000
       
(32,200
)
  Borrowings from Laclede Group
   
99,123
       
88,762
 
  Repayment of borrowings from Laclede Group
   
(89,180
)
     
(19,852
)
  Changes in book overdrafts
   
11,842
       
13,310
 
  Dividends paid
   
(9,084
)
     
(8,806
)
  Issuance of common stock to Laclede Group
   
407
       
352
 
  Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation
   
117
       
205
 
  Other
   
(14
)
     
 
          Net cash provided by financing activities
   
80,211
       
16,771
 
                   
Net Increase in Cash and Cash Equivalents
   
418
       
199
 
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Period
   
923
       
1,009
 
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period
 
$
1,341
 
 
 
$
1,208
 
                   
 
                 
Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Paid During the Period for:
                 
    Interest
 
$
9,634
     
$
10,321
 
    Income taxes
   
2,014
       
595
 
                   
                 
 
LACLEDE GAS COMPANY
(UNAUDITED)

1.
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

These notes are an integral part of the accompanying unaudited financial statements of Laclede Gas Company (Laclede Gas or the Utility). In the opinion of Laclede Gas, this interim report includes all adjustments (consisting of only normal recurring accruals) necessary for the fair presentation of the results of operations for the periods presented. Laclede Gas is a wholly owned subsidiary of The Laclede Group Inc. (Laclede Group). This Form 10-Q should be read in conjunction with the Notes to Financial Statements contained in the Utility’s Fiscal Year 2011 Form 10-K.
Laclede Gas is a regulated natural gas distribution utility having a material seasonal cycle. As a result, these interim statements of income for Laclede Gas are not necessarily indicative of annual results or representative of succeeding quarters of the fiscal year. Due to the seasonal nature of the business of Laclede Gas, earnings are typically concentrated in the November through April period, which generally corresponds with the heating season.
BASIS OF PRESENTATION - In compliance with generally accepted accounting principles, transactions between Laclede Gas and its affiliates as well as intercompany balances on Laclede Gas’ Balance Sheets have not been eliminated from the Laclede Gas financial statements. Transactions with associated companies include sales of natural gas from Laclede Gas to Laclede Energy Resources, Inc. (LER), sales of natural gas from LER to Laclede Gas, and transportation services provided by Laclede Pipeline Company to Laclede Gas. Sales of natural gas from Laclede Gas to LER were negligible for the three months ended December 31, 2011 and were $0.9 million for the same period last year. Sales of natural gas from LER to Laclede Gas during the three months ended December 31, 2011 and 2010 totaled $6.6 million and $8.7 million, respectively. Transportation services provided by Laclede Pipeline Company to Laclede Gas totaled $0.3 million for the three months ended December 31, 2011 and 2010.
Laclede Gas provides administrative and general support to affiliates. All such costs, which are not material, are billed to the appropriate affiliates. Also, Laclede Group may charge or reimburse Laclede Gas for certain tax-related amounts. Unpaid balances relating to these activities are reflected in the Laclede Gas Balance Sheets as Accounts receivable-Associated companies or as Accounts payable-associated companies. Additionally, Laclede Gas may, on occasion, borrow funds from Laclede Group. Unpaid balances relating to this arrangement, if any, are reflected in Notes payable-associated companies. Laclede Gas had outstanding borrowings from Laclede Group under a revolving credit note of $62.8 million, $52.9 million, and $68.9 million at December 31, 2011, September 30, 2011, and December 31, 2010, respectively. The interest rate on these borrowings was 0.3% at December 31, 2011 and September 30, 2011, and 0.4% at December 31, 2010. Advances under this note are due and payable on demand.
REVENUE RECOGNITION - Laclede Gas reads meters and bills its customers on monthly cycles. The Utility records its utility operating revenues from gas sales and transportation services on an accrual basis that includes estimated amounts for gas delivered, but not yet billed. The accruals for unbilled revenues are reversed in the subsequent accounting period when meters are actually read and customers are billed. The amounts of accrued unbilled revenues at December 31, 2011 and 2010, for the Utility, were $38.3 million and $54.6 million, respectively. The amount of accrued unbilled revenue at September 30, 2011 was $11.8 million.
GROSS RECEIPTS TAXES - Gross receipts taxes associated with Laclede Gas’ natural gas utility service are imposed on the Utility and billed to its customers. These amounts are recorded gross in the Statements of Income. Amounts recorded in Utility Operating Revenues for the quarters ended December 31, 2011 and 2010 were $10.2 million, and $11.3 million, respectively. Gross receipts taxes are expensed by the Utility and included in the Taxes, other than income taxes line.
STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION – Officers and employees of Laclede Gas, as determined by the Compensation Committee of Laclede Group’s Board of Directors, are eligible to be selected for awards under the Laclede Group 2006 Equity Incentive Plan. For Laclede Group’s non-employee directors, shares are awarded under the Restricted Stock Plan for Non-Employee Directors. Refer to Note 1 of the Notes to Financial Statements included in Laclede Gas’ Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2011 for descriptions of these plans. For awards made to its employees, the Utility records its allocation of compensation cost from Laclede Group with a corresponding increase to additional paid-in capital.

The amounts of compensation cost allocated to the Utility for share-based compensation arrangements for the quarters ended December 31, 2011 and 2010 are presented below:

     
Three Months Ended
   
     
December 31,
   
 
(Thousands)
   
2011
   
2010
   
                   
 
Total equity compensation cost
 
$
567
 
$
613
   
 
Compensation cost capitalized
   
(138
)
 
(154
)
 
 
Compensation cost recognized in net income
   
429
   
459
   
 
Income tax benefit recognized in net income
   
(165
)
 
(177
)
 
 
Compensation cost recognized in net income, net of income tax
 
$
264
 
$
282
   

As of December 31, 2011, there was $5.6 million in unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested share-based compensation arrangements that is expected to be allocated to the Utility over a weighted average period of 2.4 years.
NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS – In May 2011, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2011-04, “Amendments to Achieve Common Fair Value Measurement Disclosure Requirements in U.S. GAAP and IFRSs.” This ASU amends Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) Topic 820, “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures,” to improve the comparability of fair value measurements presented and disclosed in financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). The ASU does not change what items are measured at fair value, but instead makes various changes to the guidance pertaining to how fair value is measured. Additionally, the ASU sets forth additional disclosure requirements, including additional information about Level 3 fair value measurements. Many of the amendments in this ASU are changes to align the wording in U.S. GAAP with IFRS and, as such, are not intended to result in a change in the application of the guidance. The Utility is required to adopt the guidance in this ASU on a prospective basis in the second quarter of fiscal year 2012. The Utility does not expect the adoption of this ASU to have a material impact on its financial condition or results of operations.
In June 2011, the FASB issued ASU No. 2011-05, “Presentation of Comprehensive Income,” to amend ASC Topic 220, “Comprehensive Income,” by changing certain financial statement presentation requirements. Under the amended guidance, entities may either present a single continuous statement of comprehensive income or, consistent with the Utility’s current presentation, provide separate but consecutive statements (a statement of income and a statement of comprehensive income). ASU No. 2011-05 would have required that, regardless of the method chosen, reclassification adjustments from other comprehensive income to net income be presented on the face of the financial statements, displaying the effect on both net income and other comprehensive income. However, in December 2011, the FASB issued ASU No. 2011-12 to defer the effective date of this particular requirement while it reconsiders this provision of the guidance. The amendments in these ASUs do not change the items that are required to be reported in other comprehensive income and, accordingly, will not impact total net income, comprehensive income, or earnings per share.
In December 2011, the FASB issued ASU No. 2011-11, “Disclosures about Offsetting Assets and Liabilities,” to amend ASC Topic 210, “Balance Sheet,” to require additional disclosures about financial instruments and derivative instruments that have been presented on a net basis (offset) in the balance sheet. Additionally, information about financial instruments and derivative instruments that are subject to enforceable master netting arrangements or similar agreements, irrespective of whether they are presented net in the balance sheet, is required to be disclosed. The ASU impacts disclosures only and will not require any changes to financial statement presentation. The Utility will present the new disclosures retrospectively beginning in the first quarter of fiscal year 2014.
2.
PENSION PLANS AND OTHER POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS

Pension Plans

Laclede Gas has non-contributory, defined benefit, trusteed forms of pension plans covering substantially all employees. Plan assets consist primarily of corporate and U.S. government obligations and equity market exposure achieved through derivative instruments. 
Pension costs for the quarters ended December 31, 2011 and 2010 were $4.2 million and $1.6 million, respectively, including amounts charged to construction.
The net periodic pension costs include the following components:

     
Three Months Ended
 
     
December 31,
 
 
(Thousands)
 
2011
 
2010
 
                 
 
Service cost – benefits earned during the period
 
$
2,312
 
$
2,388
 
 
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation
   
4,871
   
4,705
 
 
Expected return on plan assets
   
(4,899
)
 
(4,712
)
 
Amortization of prior service cost
   
148
   
160
 
 
Amortization of actuarial loss
   
2,277
   
2,557
 
 
Sub-total
   
4,709
   
5,098
 
 
Regulatory adjustment
   
(483
)
 
(3,533
)
 
Net pension cost
 
$
4,226
 
$
1,565
 

Pursuant to the provisions of the Laclede Gas pension plans, pension obligations may be satisfied by lump-sum cash payments. Pursuant to a Missouri Public Service Commission (MoPSC or Commission) Order, lump-sum payments are recognized as settlements (which can result in gains or losses) only if the total of such payments exceeds 100% of the sum of service and interest costs. No lump-sum payments were recognized as settlements during the three months ended December 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010.
Pursuant to a MoPSC Order, the return on plan assets is based on the market-related value of plan assets implemented prospectively over a four-year period. Gains or losses not yet includible in pension cost are amortized only to the extent that such gain or loss exceeds 10% of the greater of the projected benefit obligation or the market-related value of plan assets. Such excess is amortized over the average remaining service life of active participants. The recovery in rates for the Utility’s qualified pension plans is based on an annual allowance of $4.8 million effective August 1, 2007 and $15.5 million effective January 1, 2011. The difference between these amounts and pension expense as calculated pursuant to the above and that otherwise would be included in the Statements of Income and Statements of Comprehensive Income is deferred as a regulatory asset or regulatory liability.
The funding policy of Laclede Gas is to contribute an amount not less than the minimum required by government funding standards, nor more than the maximum deductible amount for federal income tax purposes. Fiscal year 2012 contributions to the pension plans through December 31, 2011 were $17.6 million to the qualified trusts and approximately $0.1 million to the non-qualified plans. Contributions to the pension plans for the remaining nine months of fiscal year 2012 are anticipated to be at least $15.7 million to the qualified trusts and $6.6 million to the non-qualified plans.

Postretirement Benefits

Laclede Gas provides certain life insurance benefits at retirement. Medical insurance is available after early retirement until age 65. The transition obligation not yet includible in postretirement benefit cost is being amortized over 20 years. Postretirement benefit costs for the quarters ended December 31, 2011 and 2010 were $2.4 million and $1.9 million, respectively, including amounts charged to construction.

Net periodic postretirement benefit costs consisted of the following components:

     
Three Months Ended
 
     
December 31,
 
 
(Thousands)
 
2011
 
2010
 
                 
 
Service cost – benefits earned during the period
 
$
2,015
 
$
1,919
 
 
Interest cost on accumulated
             
 
    postretirement benefit obligation
   
1,380
   
1,211
 
 
Expected return on plan assets
   
(991
)
 
(911
)
 
Amortization of transition obligation
   
34
   
34
 
 
Amortization of prior service credit
   
(518
)
 
(582
)
 
Amortization of actuarial loss
   
1,065
   
1,110
 
 
Sub-total
   
2,985
   
2,781
 
 
Regulatory adjustment
   
(604
)
 
(871
)
 
Net postretirement benefit cost
 
$
2,381
 
$
1,910
 

Missouri state law provides for the recovery in rates of costs accrued pursuant to GAAP provided that such costs are funded through an independent, external funding mechanism. Laclede Gas established Voluntary Employees’ Beneficiary Association (VEBA) and Rabbi trusts as its external funding mechanisms. VEBA and Rabbi trusts’ assets consist primarily of money market securities and mutual funds invested in stocks and bonds.
Pursuant to a MoPSC Order, the return on plan assets is based on the market-related value of plan assets implemented prospectively over a four-year period. Gains and losses not yet includible in postretirement benefit cost are amortized only to the extent that such gain or loss exceeds 10% of the greater of the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation or the market-related value of plan assets. Such excess is amortized over the average remaining service life of active participants. The recovery in rates for the Utility’s postretirement benefit plans is based on an annual allowance of $7.6 million effective August 1, 2007 and $9.5 million effective January 1, 2011. The difference between these amounts and postretirement benefit cost based on the above and that otherwise would be included in the Statements of Income and Statements of Comprehensive Income is deferred as a regulatory asset or regulatory liability.
Laclede Gas’ funding policy is to contribute amounts to the trusts equal to the periodic benefit cost calculated pursuant to GAAP as recovered in rates. Fiscal year 2012 contributions to the postretirement plans through December 31, 2011 were approximately $0.1 million paid directly to participants from Laclede Gas’ funds. No contributions were made to the qualified trusts during the three months ended December 31, 2011. Contributions to the postretirement plans for the remaining nine months of fiscal year 2012 are anticipated to be $11.9 million to the qualified trusts and $0.3 million paid directly to participants from Laclede Gas’ funds.





3.
FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

The carrying amounts and estimated fair values of financial instruments are as follows:

 
(Thousands)
 
Carrying
Amount
 
Fair
Value
 
 
As of December 31, 2011
             
 
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
1,341
 
$
1,341
 
 
Marketable securities
   
15,916
   
15,916
 
 
Short-term debt
   
175,822
   
175,822
 
 
Long-term debt, including current portion
   
364,372
   
449,968
 
                 
 
As of September 30, 2011
             
 
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
923
 
$
923
 
 
Marketable securities
   
14,833
   
14,833
 
 
Derivative instrument assets
   
5,702
   
5,702
 
 
Short-term debt
   
98,879
   
98,879
 
 
Long-term debt
   
364,357
   
443,739
 
                 
 
As of December 31, 2010
             
 
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
1,208
 
$
1,208
 
 
Marketable securities
   
13,652
   
13,652
 
 
Derivative instrument assets
   
12,516
   
12,516
 
 
Short-term debt
   
166,360
   
166,360
 
 
Long-term debt
   
364,313
   
393,705
 

The carrying amounts for cash and cash equivalents and short-term debt approximate fair value due to the short maturity of these instruments. The fair values of long-term debt are estimated based on market prices for similar issues. The fair values of marketable securities, derivative instrument assets, and derivative instrument liabilities are valued as described in Note 4, Fair Value Measurements.


4.
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

The following table categorizes the assets and liabilities in the Balance Sheets that are accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis in periods subsequent to initial recognition.

 
(Thousands)
   
Quoted
Prices in
Active
Markets
(Level 1)
   
Significant
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
   
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
   
Effects of Netting and Cash Margin Receivables
/Payables
   
Total
 
 
As of December 31, 2011
                               
 
Assets
                               
 
  U. S. Stock/Bond Mutual Funds
 
$
15,916
 
$
 
$
 
$
 
$
15,916
 
 
  NYMEX natural gas contracts
   
8
   
   
   
(8
)
 
 
 
  NYMEX gasoline and heating
                               
 
    oil contracts
   
31
   
   
   
(31
)
 
 
 
        Total
 
$
15,955
 
$
 
$
 
$
(39
)
$
15,916
 
                                   
 
Liabilities
                               
 
  NYMEX natural gas contracts
 
$
26,349
 
$
 
$
 
$
(26,349
)
$
 
                                   
 
As of September 30, 2011
                               
 
Assets
                               
 
  U. S. Stock/Bond Mutual Funds
 
$
14,833
 
$
 
$
 
$
 
$
14,833
 
 
  NYMEX natural gas contracts
   
457
   
   
   
5,064
   
5,521
 
 
  NYMEX gasoline and heating
                               
 
    oil contracts
   
19
   
   
   
162
   
181
 
 
        Total
 
$
15,309
 
$
 
$
 
$
5,226
 
$
20,535
 
                                   
 
Liabilities
                               
 
  NYMEX natural gas contracts
 
$
16,738
 
$
 
$
 
$
(16,738
)
$
 
 
  NYMEX gasoline and heating
                               
 
    oil contracts
   
124
   
   
   
(124
)
 
 
 
        Total
 
$
16,862
 
$
 
$
 
$
(16,862
)
$
 
                                   
 
As of December 31, 2010
                               
 
Assets
                               
 
  U. S. Stock/Bond Mutual Funds
 
$
13,652
 
$
 
$
 
$
 
$
13,652
 
 
  NYMEX natural gas contracts
   
2,383
   
   
   
9,636
   
12,019
 
 
  NYMEX gasoline and heating
                               
 
    oil contracts
   
182
   
   
   
315
   
497
 
 
        Total
 
$
16,217
 
$
 
$
 
$
9,951
 
$
26,168
 
                                   
 
Liabilities
                               
 
  NYMEX natural gas contracts
 
$
23,425
 
$
 
$
 
$
(23,425
)
$
 



The mutual funds included in Level 1 are valued based on exchange-quoted market prices of identical securities. Derivative instruments included in Level 1 are valued using quoted market prices on the New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX). The Utility’s policy is to recognize transfers between the levels of the fair value hierarchy, if any, as of the beginning of the interim reporting period in which circumstances change or events occur to cause the transfer. The mutual funds are included in the Other investments line of the Balance Sheets. Derivative assets and liabilities, including receivables and payables associated with cash margin requirements, are presented net in the Balance Sheets when a legally enforceable netting agreement exists between Laclede Gas and the counterparty to a derivative contract. For additional information on derivative instruments, see Note 5, Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities.


5.
DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES

Laclede Gas has a risk management policy that allows for the purchase of natural gas derivative instruments with the goal of managing price risk associated with purchasing natural gas on behalf of its customers. This policy prohibits speculation and permits the Utility to hedge up to 70% of its normal volumes purchased for up to a 36-month period. Costs and cost reductions, including carrying costs, associated with the Utility’s use of natural gas derivative instruments are allowed to be passed on to the Utility’s customers through the operation of its Purchased Gas Adjustment (PGA) Clause, through which the MoPSC allows the Utility to recover gas supply costs, subject to prudence review by the MoPSC. Accordingly, Laclede Gas does not expect any adverse earnings impact as a result of the use of these derivative instruments. The Utility does not designate these instruments as hedging instruments for financial reporting purposes because gains or losses associated with the use of these derivative instruments are deferred and recorded as regulatory assets or regulatory liabilities pursuant to ASC Topic 980, “Regulated Operations,” and, as a result, have no direct impact on the Statements of Income. The timing of the operation of the PGA Clause may cause interim variations in short-term cash flows, because the Utility is subject to cash margin requirements associated with changes in the values of these instruments. Nevertheless, carrying costs associated with such requirements are recovered through the PGA Clause.
From time to time, Laclede Gas purchases NYMEX futures and options contracts to help stabilize operating costs associated with forecasted purchases of gasoline and diesel fuels used to power vehicles and equipment used in the course of its business. At December 31, 2011, Laclede Gas held 0.2 million gallons of gasoline futures contracts at an average price of $2.92 per gallon and 0.4 million gallons of gasoline options contracts. Most of these contracts, the longest of which extends to September 2012, are designated as cash flow hedges of forecasted transactions pursuant to ASC Topic 815, “Derivatives and Hedging.” The gains or losses on these derivative instruments are not subject to the Utility’s PGA Clause.
Derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges of forecasted transactions are recognized on the Balance Sheets at fair value and the change in the fair value of the effective portion of these hedge instruments is recorded, net of tax, in other comprehensive income (OCI). Accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI) is a component of Total Common Stock Equity. Amounts are reclassified from AOCI into earnings when the hedged items affect net income, using the same revenue or expense category that the hedged item impacts. Based on market prices at December 31, 2011, it is expected that essentially no net amount will be reclassified into the Statements of Income during the next twelve months. Cash flows from hedging transactions are classified in the same category as the cash flows from the items that are being hedged in the Statements of Cash Flows.
The Utility’s derivative instruments consist primarily of NYMEX positions. The NYMEX is the primary national commodities exchange on which natural gas derivatives are traded. Open NYMEX natural gas futures positions at December 31, 2011 were as follows:

     
MMBtu
(millions)
 
Avg. Price
Per
MMBtu
 
 
Open long futures positions
             
 
    Fiscal 2012
 
15.41
 
$
4.42
   
 
    Fiscal 2013
 
14.34
   
4.56
   




At December 31, 2011, Laclede Gas also had 5.2 million MMBtu of other price mitigation in place through the use of NYMEX natural gas option-based strategies.

The Effect of Derivative Instruments on the Statements of Income and Statements of Comprehensive Income
   
                   
                   
     
Three Months Ended
   
 
Location of Gain (Loss)
 
December 31,
   
(Thousands)
Recorded in Income
   
2011
   
2010
   
                   
Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships
                 
                   
NYMEX gasoline and heating oil contracts:
                 
  Effective portion of gain recognized in
                 
    OCI on derivatives
   
$
50
 
$
173
   
                   
  Effective portion of gain reclassified from
                 
    AOCI to income
Utility – Other Operation Expenses
   
14
   
49
   
                   
  Ineffective portion of gain on derivatives
                 
    recognized in income:
Utility – Other Operation Expenses
   
6
   
29
   
                   
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments *
               
                   
NYMEX gasoline and heating oil contracts:
                 
                   
  Gain recognized in income on derivatives
Other Income and (Income Deductions) – Net
 
$
1
 
$
16
   

*
Gains and losses on Laclede Gas’ natural gas derivative instruments, which are not designated as hedging instruments for financial reporting purposes, are deferred pursuant to the Utility’s PGA Clause and initially recorded as regulatory assets or regulatory liabilities. These gains and losses are excluded from the table above because they have no direct impact on the Statements of Income. Such amounts are recognized in the Statements of Income as a component of Utility Natural and Propane Gas operating expenses when they are recovered through the PGA Clause and reflected in customer billings.


Fair Value of Derivative Instruments in the Balance Sheet at December 31, 2011
 
           
   
Asset Derivatives
 
Liability Derivatives
 
(Thousands)
 
Balance Sheet Location
 
Fair
Value
*
Balance Sheet Location
 
Fair
Value
*
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments
             
                   
  NYMEX gasoline and heating oil contracts
 
Accounts Receivable – Other
$
24
 
Accounts Receivable - Other
$
 
               
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
             
                   
  NYMEX natural gas contracts
 
Accounts Receivable – Other
 
8
 
Accounts Receivable – Other
 
26,349
 
  NYMEX gasoline and heating oil contracts
 
Accounts Receivable – Other
 
7
 
Accounts Receivable – Other
 
 
        Sub-total
     
15
     
26,349
 
  Total derivatives
   
$
39
   
$
26,349
 
                   
Fair Value of Derivative Instruments in the Balance Sheet at September 30, 2011
 
                   
   
Asset Derivatives
 
Liability Derivatives
 
(Thousands)
 
Balance Sheet Location
 
Fair
Value
*
Balance Sheet Location
 
Fair
Value
*
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments
             
                   
  NYMEX gasoline and heating oil contracts
 
Derivative Instrument Assets
$
15
 
Derivative Instrument Assets
$
117
 
               
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
             
                   
  NYMEX natural gas contracts
 
Derivative Instrument Assets
 
457
 
Derivative Instrument Assets
 
16,330
 
   
Other Deferred Charges
 
 
Other Deferred Charges
 
408
 
  NYMEX gasoline and heating oil contracts
 
Derivative Instrument Assets
 
4
 
Derivative Instrument Assets
 
7
 
        Sub-total
     
461
     
16,745
 
  Total derivatives
   
$
476
   
$
16,862
 
                   
Fair Value of Derivative Instruments in the Balance Sheet at December 31, 2010
 
           
   
Asset Derivatives
 
Liability Derivatives
 
(Thousands)
 
Balance Sheet Location
 
Fair
Value
*
Balance Sheet Location
 
Fair
Value
*
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments
             
                   
  NYMEX gasoline and heating oil contracts
 
Derivative Instrument Assets
$
169
 
Derivative Instrument Assets
$
 
               
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
             
                   
  NYMEX natural gas contracts
 
Derivative Instrument Assets
 
2,289
 
Derivative Instrument Assets
 
23,180
 
   
Other Deferred Charges
 
94
 
Other Deferred Charges
 
245
 
  NYMEX gasoline and heating oil contracts
 
Derivative Instrument Assets
 
13
 
Derivative Instrument Assets
 
 
        Sub-total
     
2,396
     
23,425
 
  Total derivatives
   
$
2,565
   
$
23,425
 
                   

*
The fair values of Asset Derivatives and Liability Derivatives exclude the fair value of cash margin receivables or payables with counterparties subject to netting arrangements. Fair value amounts of derivative contracts (including the fair value amounts of cash margin receivables and payables) for which there is a legal right to set off are presented net on the Balance Sheets. As such, the gross balances presented in the table above are not indicative of the Utility’s net economic exposure. Refer to Note 4, Fair Value Measurements, for information on the valuation of derivative instruments.
    Following is a reconciliation of the amounts in the tables above to the amounts presented in the Balance Sheets:

     
Dec. 31,
 
Sept. 30,
 
Dec. 31,
 
 
(Thousands)
 
2011
 
2011
 
2010
 
                       
 
Fair value of asset derivatives presented above
 
$
39
 
$
476
 
$
2,565
 
 
Fair value of cash margin receivables offset with derivatives
   
26,310
   
22,088
   
33,376
 
 
Netting of assets and liabilities with the same counterparty
   
(26,349
)
 
(16,862
)
 
(23,425
)
 
    Total
 
$
 
$
5,702
 
$
12,516
 
                       
 
Derivative Instrument Assets, per Balance Sheets:
                   
 
  Derivative instrument assets
 
$
 
$
4,746
 
$
10,415
 
 
  Other deferred charges
   
   
956
   
2,101
 
 
    Total
 
$
 
$
5,702
 
$
12,516
 
                       
 
Fair value of liability derivatives presented above
 
$
26,349
 
$
16,862
 
$
23,425
 
 
Netting of assets and liabilities with the same counterparty
   
(26,349
)
 
(16,862
)
 
(23,425
)
 
    Derivative instrument liabilities, per Balance Sheets*
 
$
 
$
 
$
 
                       
*
Included in the Other line of the Current Liabilities section
                   


6.
OTHER INCOME AND (INCOME DEDUCTIONS) – NET


     
Three Months Ended
 
     
December 31,
 
 
(Thousands)
 
2011
 
2010
 
                 
 
Interest income
 
$
337
 
$
411
 
 
Net investment gain
   
1,041
   
744
 
 
Other income
   
   
13
 
 
Other income deductions
   
561
   
647
 
 
Other Income and (Income Deductions) – Net
 
$
1,939
 
$
1,815
 






7.
INFORMATION BY OPERATING SEGMENT

The Regulated Gas Distribution segment consists of the regulated operations of Laclede Gas. The Non-Regulated Other segment includes Laclede Gas’ non-regulated business activities, which are comprised of its non-regulated propane sales transactions and its propane storage and related services. Accounting policies are described in Note 1. There are no material intersegment revenues.
Management evaluates the performance of the operating segments based on the computation of net economic earnings. Net economic earnings exclude from reported net income the after-tax impacts of net unrealized gains and losses and other timing differences associated with energy-related transactions. Net economic earnings will also exclude, if applicable, the after-tax impact of costs related to acquisition, divestiture, and restructuring activities.


   
Regulated
 
Non-
 
Adjustments
     
   
Gas
 
Regulated
 
 &
     
(Thousands)
 
Distribution
 
Other
 
Eliminations
 
Total
 
                           
Three Months Ended
                         
December 31, 2011
                         
Operating revenues
 
$
250,902
 
$
1,081
 
$
 
$
251,983
 
Net economic earnings
   
21,079
   
615
   
   
21,694
 
Total assets
   
1,753,859
   
2,176
   
   
1,756,035
 
                           
Three Months Ended
                         
December 31, 2010
                         
Operating revenues
 
$
277,443
 
$
 
$
 
$
277,443
 
Net economic earnings
   
21,434
   
   
   
21,434
 
Total assets
   
1,734,389
   
807
   
   
1,735,196
 

Reconciliation of Net Economic Earnings to Net Income
 
     
Three Months Ended
 
     
December 31,
 
 
(Thousands)
 
2011
 
2010
 
                 
 
Total Net Economic Earnings above
 
$
21,694
 
$
21,434
 
 
  Add: Unrealized gain on energy-related
             
 
    derivative contracts, net of tax
   
3
   
21
 
 
Net Income
 
$
21,697
 
$
21,455
 


8.
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

Commitments

Laclede Gas has entered into various contracts, expiring on dates through 2017, for the storage, transportation, and supply of natural gas. Minimum payments required under the contracts in place at December 31, 2011 are estimated at approximately $244 million. Additional contracts are generally entered into prior to or during the heating season. Laclede Gas recovers its costs from customers in accordance with the PGA Clause.
During fiscal 2011, the Utility initiated a multi-year project to replace its existing work management, financial, and supply chain software applications to enhance its technology, customer service, and business processes. At December 31, 2011, the Utility was contractually committed to costs of approximately $8 million related to this project, with additional expenditures to be incurred throughout the project’s life.
Leases and Guarantees

Laclede Gas has several operating leases for the rental of vehicles that contain provisions requiring Laclede Gas to guarantee certain amounts related to the residual value of the leased property. These leases have various terms, the longest of which extends into 2015. At December 31, 2011, the maximum guarantees under these leases are $0.9 million. However, the Utility believes it is unlikely that it will be subject to the maximum payment amount because it estimates that the residual value of the leased vehicles will be adequate to satisfy most of the guaranteed amounts. At December 31, 2011, the carrying value of the liability recognized for these guarantees was $0.2 million.

Contingencies

Laclede Gas owns and operates natural gas distribution, transmission, and storage facilities, the operations of which are subject to various environmental laws, regulations, and interpretations. While environmental issues resulting from such operations arise in the ordinary course of business, such issues have not materially affected Laclede Gas’ financial position and results of operations. As environmental laws, regulations, and their interpretations change, however, Laclede Gas may be required to incur additional costs.
Similar to other natural gas utility companies, Laclede Gas faces the risk of incurring environmental liabilities. In the natural gas industry, these are typically associated with sites formerly owned or operated by gas distribution companies like Laclede Gas and/or its predecessor companies at which manufactured gas operations took place. At this time, Laclede Gas has identified three former manufactured gas plant (MGP) sites where costs have been incurred and claims have been asserted: one in Shrewsbury, Missouri and two in the City of St. Louis, Missouri.
With regard to the former MGP site located in Shrewsbury, Missouri, Laclede Gas and state and federal environmental regulators agreed upon certain remedial actions to a portion of the site in a 1999 Administrative Order on Consent (AOC), which actions have been completed. On September 22, 2008, EPA Region VII issued a letter of Termination and Satisfaction terminating the AOC. However, if after this termination of the AOC, regulators require additional remedial actions, or additional claims are asserted, Laclede Gas may incur additional costs.
One of the sites located in the City of St. Louis is currently owned by a development agency of the City, which, together with other City development agencies, has selected a developer to redevelop the site. In conjunction with this redevelopment effort, Laclede Gas and another former owner of the site entered into an agreement (Remediation Agreement) with the City development agencies, the developer, and an environmental consultant that obligates one of the City agencies and the environmental consultant to remediate the site and obtain a No Further Action letter from the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. The Remediation Agreement also provides for a release of Laclede Gas and the other former site owner from certain liabilities related to the past and current environmental condition of the site and requires the developer and the environmental consultant to maintain certain insurance coverages, including remediation cost containment, premises pollution liability, and professional liability. The operative provisions of the Remediation Agreement were triggered on December 20, 2010, on which date Laclede Gas and the other former site owner, as full consideration under the Remediation Agreement, paid a small percentage of the cost of remediation of the site. The amount paid by Laclede Gas, which is its only monetary obligation under the Remediation Agreement, did not materially impact the financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows of Laclede Gas.
Laclede Gas has not owned the other site located in the City of St. Louis for many years. In a letter dated June 29, 2011, the Attorney General for the State of Missouri informed Laclede Gas that the Missouri Department of Natural Resources had completed an investigation of the site. The Attorney General requested that Laclede Gas participate in the follow up investigations of the site. In a letter dated January 10, 2012, the Utility stated that it would participate in future environmental response activities at the site assuming that other potentially responsible parties are willing to contribute to such efforts in a meaningful and equitable fashion.
To date, amounts required for remediation at these sites have not been material. However, the amount of costs relative to future remedial actions at these and other sites is unknown and may be material. Laclede Gas has notified its insurers that it seeks reimbursement for costs incurred in the past and future potential liabilities associated with the MGP sites. While some of the insurers have denied coverage and reserved their rights, Laclede Gas continues to discuss potential reimbursements with them. In 2005, the Utility’s outside consultant completed an analysis of the MGP sites to determine cost estimates for a one-time contractual transfer of risk from each of the Utility’s insurers of environmental coverage for the MGP sites. That analysis demonstrated a range of possible future expenditures to
investigate, monitor, and remediate these MGP sites from $5.8 million to $36.3 million based upon then currently available facts, technology, and laws and regulations. The actual costs that Laclede Gas may incur could be materially higher or lower depending upon several factors, including whether remedial actions will be required, final selection and regulatory approval of any remedial actions, changing technologies and governmental regulations, the ultimate ability of other potentially responsible parties to pay, the successful completion of remediation efforts required by the Remediation Agreement described above, and any insurance recoveries. Costs associated with environmental remediation activities are accrued when such costs are probable and reasonably estimable.
Laclede Gas anticipates that any costs it may incur in the future to remediate these sites, less any amounts received as insurance proceeds or as contributions from other potentially responsible parties, would be deferred and recovered in rates through periodic adjustments approved by the MoPSC. Accordingly, any potential liabilities that may arise associated with remediating these sites are not expected to have a material impact on the future financial position and results of operations of Laclede Gas.
On December 28, 2006, the MoPSC Staff proposed a disallowance of $7.2 million related to Laclede Gas’ recovery of its purchased gas costs applicable to fiscal year 2005, which the Staff later reduced to a $1.7 million disallowance pertaining to Laclede Gas’ purchase of gas from a marketing affiliate, LER. The MoPSC Staff has also proposed disallowances of $2.8 million and $1.5 million of gas costs relating to Laclede Gas purchases of gas supply from LER for fiscal years 2006 and 2007, respectively. The MoPSC Staff proposed a number of non-monetary recommendations, based on its review of gas costs for fiscal years 2008 and 2009. Laclede Gas believes that the proposed disallowances lack merit and is vigorously opposing these adjustments in proceedings before the MoPSC. As such, no amount has been recorded in the financial statements for these proposed disallowances.
In connection with the affiliate transactions mentioned above, on July 7, 2010, the MoPSC Staff filed a complaint against Laclede Gas alleging that, by stating that it was not in possession of proprietary LER documents, Laclede Gas violated the MoPSC Order authorizing the holding company structure (2001 Order). Laclede Gas counterclaimed that the Staff failed to adhere to the pricing provisions of the MoPSC’s affiliate transaction rules and Laclede Gas’ Cost Allocation Manual. By orders dated November 3, 2010 and February 4, 2011, respectively, the MoPSC dismissed Laclede’s counterclaim and granted summary judgment to Staff, finding that Laclede Gas violated the terms of the 2001 Order and authorizing its General Counsel to seek penalties in court against Laclede Gas. On March 30, 2011, Laclede Gas sought review of the February 4 Order with the Missouri Cole County Circuit Court. On May 19, 2011, the Commission’s General Counsel filed a petition with the Cole County Circuit Court seeking penalties in connection with the Commission’s February 4 Order. On July 7, 2011, the Circuit Court Judge signed an agreed Order holding the penalty case in abeyance while the February 4 Order is appealed. On December 21, 2011, the Circuit Court reversed both the MoPSC’s November 3, 2010 Order and its February 4, 2011 Order.
Subsequent to the July 7, 2010 complaint, the MoPSC Staff filed a related complaint on October 6, 2010 against Laclede Gas, LER, and Laclede Group, alleging that the Utility has failed to comply with the MoPSC’s affiliate transaction rules. LER and Laclede Group both filed motions to be dismissed from the proceeding, which were granted by the Commission on December 22, 2010. On January 26, 2011, the Commission also dismissed certain counts of the complaint against Laclede Gas. The remaining counts and a counterclaim against the Staff, filed by Laclede Gas, are still pending before the Commission. Laclede Gas believes that the complaint lacks merit and is vigorously opposing it.
On June 29, 2010, the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs issued a Notice of Violations to Laclede Gas alleging lapses in certain employment selection procedures during a two-year period ending in February 2006. The Utility believes that the allegations lack merit and is vigorously defending its position. Management, after discussion with counsel, believes that the final outcome of these matters will not have a material effect on the financial position and results of operations of the Utility.
 
As discussed in Note 5, Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, Laclede Gas enters into NYMEX exchange-traded derivative instruments. Previously, these instruments were held in accounts at MF Global, Inc. On October 31, 2011, affiliated entities of MF Global filed a Chapter 11 petition at the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in the Southern District of New York. Subsequently, the court-appointed bankruptcy trustee transferred all of the open positions and a significant portion of the margin deposits of Laclede Gas to a new brokerage firm. As of January 26, 2012, the Utility had $1.5 million on deposit with MF Global in customer-segregated accounts that remain unavailable to the Utility pending final resolution by the bankruptcy trustee. While the Utility’s exposure at this time is not considered material, management is unable to predict when, or to what extent, these remaining funds will be returned.
Laclede Gas is involved in other litigation, claims, and investigations arising in the normal course of business. Management, after discussion with counsel, believes that the final outcome will not have a material effect on the financial position, results of operations, or cash flows of the Utility.
 
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

This management’s discussion analyzes the financial condition and results of operations of Laclede Gas Company (Laclede Gas or the Utility). It includes management’s view of factors that affect its business, explanations of past financial results including changes in earnings and costs from the prior year periods, and their effects on overall financial condition and liquidity.

Certain matters discussed in this report, excluding historical information, include forward-looking statements. Certain words, such as “may,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “seek,” and similar words and expressions identify forward-looking statements that involve uncertainties and risks. Future developments may not be in accordance with our expectations or beliefs and the effect of future developments may not be those anticipated. Among the factors that may cause results to differ materially from those contemplated in any forward-looking statement are:

weather conditions and catastrophic events, particularly severe weather in the natural gas producing areas of the country;
volatility in gas prices, particularly sudden and sustained changes in natural gas prices, including the related impact on margin deposits associated with the use of natural gas derivative instruments;
the impact of changes and volatility in natural gas prices on our competitive position in relation to suppliers of alternative heating sources, such as electricity;
changes in gas supply and pipeline availability, including decisions by natural gas producers to reduce production or shut in producing natural gas wells as well as other changes that impact supply for and access to our service area;
legislative, regulatory and judicial mandates and decisions, some of which may be retroactive, including those affecting
 
allowed rates of return
 
incentive regulation
 
industry structure
 
purchased gas adjustment provisions
 
rate design structure and implementation
 
regulatory assets
 
non-regulated and affiliate transactions
 
franchise renewals
 
environmental or safety matters, including the potential impact of legislative and regulatory actions related to climate change and pipeline safety
 
taxes
 
pension and other postretirement benefit liabilities and funding obligations
 
accounting standards, including the effect of potential changes relative to adoption of or convergence with international accounting standards;
the results of litigation;
retention of, ability to attract, ability to collect from, and conservation efforts of, customers;
capital and energy commodity market conditions, including the ability to obtain funds with reasonable terms for necessary capital expenditures and general operations and the terms and conditions imposed for obtaining sufficient gas supply;
discovery of material weakness in internal controls; and
employee workforce issues.

Readers are urged to consider the risks, uncertainties, and other factors that could affect our business as described in this report. All forward-looking statements made in this report rely upon the safe harbor protections provided under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. We do not, by including this statement, assume any obligation to review or revise any particular forward-looking statement in light of future events.

The Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations should be read in conjunction with the Utility’s Financial Statements and the Notes thereto.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Overview

Laclede Gas is a wholly owned subsidiary of The Laclede Group, Inc. (Laclede Group). Laclede Gas is regulated by the Missouri Public Service Commission (MoPSC or Commission) and serves the City of St. Louis and parts of ten counties in eastern Missouri. Laclede Gas delivers natural gas to retail customers at rates and in accordance with tariffs authorized by the MoPSC. The Utility’s earnings are primarily generated by the sale of heating energy. The Utility’s weather mitigation rate design lessens the impact of weather volatility on Laclede Gas’ customers during cold winters and stabilizes the Utility’s earnings by recovering fixed costs more evenly during the heating season. Due to the seasonal nature of the business of Laclede Gas, earnings are typically concentrated in the November through April period, which generally corresponds with the heating season.
 
Ms. Suzanne Sitherwood will become Laclede Gas Company’s Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) effective February 1, 2012, succeeding Mr. Douglas H. Yaeger, who will retire on that same date. Ms. Sitherwood, who currently serves as President of The Laclede Group, Inc., will also become its CEO effective February 1, 2012.
 
Based on the nature of the business of the Utility, as well as current economic conditions, management focuses on the following key variables in evaluating the financial condition and results of operations and managing the business:

the Utility’s ability to recover the costs of purchasing and distributing natural gas from its customers;
the impact of weather and other factors, such as customer conservation, on revenues and expenses;
changes in the regulatory environment at the federal, state, and local levels, as well as decisions by regulators, that impact the Utility’s ability to earn its authorized rate of return;
the Utility’s ability to access credit markets and maintain working capital sufficient to meet operating requirements; and,
the effect of natural gas price volatility on the business.

Further information regarding how management seeks to manage these key variables is discussed below.

Laclede Gas continues to provide reliable natural gas service at a reasonable cost, while maintaining and building a secure and dependable infrastructure. The Utility’s strategy focuses on improving performance and mitigating the impact of weather fluctuations on Laclede Gas’ customers while improving the ability to recover its authorized distribution costs and return. The Utility’s distribution costs are the essential, primarily fixed, expenditures it must incur to operate and maintain more than 16,000 miles of mains and services comprising its natural gas distribution system and related storage facilities. The Utility’s distribution costs include wages and employee benefit costs, depreciation and maintenance expenses, and other regulated utility operating expenses, excluding natural and propane gas expense. Distribution costs are considered in the ratemaking process, and recovery of these types of costs is included in revenues generated through the Utility’s tariff rates, as approved by the MoPSC. The settlement of the Utility’s rate case in 2010 retained the Utility’s weather mitigation rate design that better ensures the recovery of its fixed costs and margins despite variations in sales volumes due to the impacts of weather and other factors that affect customer usage.

The Utility’s income from off-system sales and capacity release remains subject to fluctuations in market conditions. The Utility is allowed to retain 15% to 25% of the first $6 million in annual income earned (depending on the level of income earned) and 30% of income exceeding $6 million annually. Some of the factors impacting the level of off-system sales include the availability and cost of the Utility’s natural gas supply, the weather in its service area, and the weather in other markets. When Laclede Gas’ service area experiences warmer-than-normal weather while other markets experience colder weather or supply constraints, some of the Utility’s natural gas supply is available for off-system sales and there may be a demand for such supply in other markets. See the Regulatory and Other Matters section on page 26 of this report for additional information on regulatory issues.



Laclede Gas works actively to reduce the impact of wholesale natural gas price volatility on its costs by strategically structuring its natural gas supply portfolio to increase its gas supply availability and pricing alternatives and through the use of derivative instruments to protect its customers from significant changes in the commodity price of natural gas. Nevertheless, the overall cost of purchased gas remains subject to fluctuations in market conditions. The Utility’s Purchased Gas Adjustment (PGA) Clause allows Laclede Gas to flow through to customers, subject to prudence review by the MoPSC, the cost of purchased gas supplies, including costs, cost reductions, and related carrying costs associated with the use of derivative instruments to hedge the purchase price of natural gas, as well as gas inventory carrying costs. The Utility believes it will continue to be able to obtain sufficient gas supply. The price of natural gas supplies and other economic conditions may affect sales volumes, due to the conservation efforts of customers, and cash flows associated with the timing of collection of gas costs and related accounts receivable from customers.

The Utility relies on both short-term credit and long-term capital markets, as well as cash flows from operations, to satisfy its seasonal cash requirements and fund its cost of capital expenditures. Laclede Gas’ ability to issue commercial paper supported by lines of credit, to issue long-term bonds, or to obtain new lines of credit is dependent on current conditions in the credit and capital markets. Management focuses on maintaining a strong balance sheet and believes it currently has adequate access to credit and capital markets and will have sufficient capital resources to meet its foreseeable obligations. See the Liquidity and Capital Resources section on page 28 for additional information.

EARNINGS

Laclede Gas’ net income totaled $21.7 million for the quarter ended December 31, 2011, an increase of $0.2 million compared with the quarter ended December 31, 2010. The increase was primarily due to the following factors, quantified on a pre-tax basis:

higher Infrastructure System Replacement Surcharge (ISRS) revenues totaling $1.2 million; and
decreases in maintenance expense totaling $0.8 million.

These factors were partially offset by increases in pension expenses totaling $1.8 million.

Utility Operating Revenues

Laclede Gas passes on to Utility customers (subject to prudence review by the MoPSC) increases and decreases in the wholesale cost of natural gas in accordance with its PGA Clause. The volatility of the wholesale natural gas market results in fluctuations from period to period in the recorded levels of, among other items, revenues and natural gas cost expense. Nevertheless, increases and decreases in the cost of gas associated with system gas sales volumes have no direct effect on net revenues and net income.

Utility Operating Revenues for the quarter ended December 31, 2011 were $250.9 million, or $26.5 million less than the same period last year. Temperatures experienced in the Utility’s service area during the quarter were 20.8% warmer than the same quarter last year and 22.1% warmer than normal. Total system therms sold and transported were 238.6 million for the quarter ended December 31, 2011 compared with 285.9 million for the same period last year. Total off-system therms sold and transported were 98.2 million for the quarter ended December 31, 2011 compared with 53.7 million for the same period last year. The decrease in Utility Operating Revenues was primarily attributable to the following factors:

(Millions)
 
Lower system sales volumes and other variations
 
$
(29.7
)
Higher off-system sales volumes (reflecting more favorable market conditions as described in greater
   detail in the Results of Operations)
   
17.7
 
Lower wholesale gas costs passed on to Utility customers (subject to prudence review by the MoPSC)
   
(10.0
)
Lower prices charged for off-system sales
   
(5.7
)
Higher ISRS revenues
   
1.2
 
Total Variation
 
$
(26.5
)
Utility Operating Expenses

Utility Operating Expenses for the quarter ended December 31, 2011 decreased $25.4 million from the same quarter last year. Natural and propane gas expense decreased $26.6 million, or 15.4%, from last year’s level, primarily attributable to decreased system volumes purchased for sendout and lower rates charged by our suppliers, partially offset by higher off-system gas expense. Other operation and maintenance expenses decreased $1.9 million, or 4.6%, primarily due to increased pension and compensation expenses, partially offset by decreased maintenance charges. Taxes, other than income taxes, decreased $1.1 million, or 6.9%, primarily due to decreased gross receipts taxes (attributable to the decreased revenues).

Other Income and (Income Deductions) - Net

Other Income and (Income Deductions) – Net increased $0.1 million primarily due to higher net investment gains, largely offset by a decrease in income associated with carrying costs applied to under-recoveries of gas costs, and other minor variations. Carrying costs on under-recoveries of gas costs are recovered through the Utility’s PGA Clause.

Interest Charges

The $0.4 million decrease in interest charges was primarily due to lower interest on long-term debt, attributable to the November 2010 maturity of $25 million principal amount of 6 1/2 % first mortgage bonds, and lower interest on short-term debt. Average short-term interest rates were 0.3% for the quarter ended December 31, 2011 compared with 0.4% for the quarter ended December 31, 2010. Average short-term borrowings were $143.3 million for the quarter ended December 31, 2011 compared with $164.4 million for the quarter ended December 31, 2010.


REGULATORY AND OTHER MATTERS

On December 28, 2006, the MoPSC Staff proposed a disallowance of $7.2 million related to Laclede Gas’ recovery of its purchased gas costs applicable to fiscal year 2005, which the Staff later reduced to a $1.7 million disallowance pertaining to Laclede Gas’ purchase of gas from a marketing affiliate, LER. The MoPSC Staff has also proposed disallowances of $2.8 million and $1.5 million of gas costs relating to Laclede Gas purchases of gas supply from LER for fiscal years 2006 and 2007, respectively. The MoPSC Staff proposed a number of non-monetary recommendations, based on its review of gas costs for fiscal years 2008 and 2009. Laclede Gas believes that the proposed disallowances lack merit and is vigorously opposing these adjustments in proceedings before the MoPSC. As such, no amount has been recorded in the financial statements for these proposed disallowances.

In connection with the affiliate transactions mentioned above, on July 7, 2010, the MoPSC Staff filed a complaint against Laclede Gas alleging that, by stating that it was not in possession of proprietary LER documents, Laclede Gas violated the MoPSC Order authorizing the holding company structure (2001 Order). Laclede Gas counterclaimed that the Staff failed to adhere to the pricing provisions of the MoPSC’s affiliate transaction rules and Laclede Gas’ Cost Allocation Manual. By orders dated November 3, 2010 and February 4, 2011, respectively, the MoPSC dismissed Laclede’s counterclaim and granted summary judgment to Staff, finding that Laclede Gas violated the terms of the 2001 Order and authorizing its General Counsel to seek penalties in court against Laclede Gas. On March 30, 2011, Laclede Gas sought review of the February 4 Order with the Missouri Cole County Circuit Court. On May 19, 2011, the Commission’s General Counsel filed a petition with the Cole County Circuit Court seeking penalties in connection with the Commission’s February 4 Order. On July 7, 2011, the Circuit Court Judge signed an agreed Order holding the penalty case in abeyance while the February 4 Order is appealed. On December 21, 2011, the Circuit Court reversed both the MoPSC’s November 3, 2010 Order and its February 4, 2011 Order.

Subsequent to the July 7, 2010 complaint, the MoPSC Staff filed a related complaint on October 6, 2010 against Laclede Gas, LER, and Laclede Group, alleging that the Utility has failed to comply with the MoPSC’s affiliate transaction rules. LER and Laclede Group both filed motions to be dismissed from the proceeding, which were granted by the Commission on December 22, 2010. On January 26, 2011, the Commission also dismissed certain counts of the complaint against Laclede Gas. The remaining counts and a counterclaim against the Staff, filed by Laclede Gas, are still pending before the Commission. Laclede Gas believes that the complaint lacks merit and is vigorously opposing it.
 
On July 9, 2008, Laclede Gas made a tariff filing with the MoPSC that would make the payment provisions for the restoration of gas service under the Utility’s Cold Weather Rule available to customers in the summer of 2008 and enable the Utility to increase or decrease its PGA rates to correct for any shortfall or surplus created by the difference between the gas cost portion of the Utility’s actual net bad debt write-offs and the amount of such cost that is embedded in its existing rates. As a result of the ensuing procedural schedule, the Cold Weather Rule portion of the filing became moot. On April 15, 2009, the Commission rejected the Utility’s tariffs on the grounds that it did not have the legal authority to approve them. On appeal, the Cole County Circuit Court reversed the Commission’s Order, but that Court’s decision was likewise reversed by the Western District of the Missouri Court of Appeals. Laclede’s application to the Missouri Supreme Court was denied on January 25, 2011.

On November 9, 2011, the Utility made an ISRS filing with the Commission designed to increase revenues by $2.0 million annually, essentially all of which was approved by the MoPSC effective January 13, 2012.

On June 29, 2010, the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs issued a Notice of Violations to Laclede Gas alleging lapses in certain employment selection procedures during a two-year period ending in February 2006. The Utility believes that the allegations lack merit and is vigorously defending its position. Management, after discussion with counsel, believes that the final outcome of these matters will not have a material effect on the financial position and results of operations of the Utility.


CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Our discussion and analysis of our financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, and capital resources is based upon our financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). GAAP requires that we make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. We evaluate our estimates on an ongoing basis. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that we believe are reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates. Our critical accounting policies used in the preparation of our Financial Statements are described in Item 7 of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2011 and include the following:

 
Accounts receivable and allowance for doubtful accounts
 
Employee benefits and postretirement obligations
 
Regulated operations

There were no significant changes to these critical accounting policies during the three months ended December 31, 2011. For discussion of other significant accounting policies, see Note 1 of the Notes to Financial Statements included in the Utility’s Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2011.

ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

The Utility has evaluated or is in the process of evaluating the impact that recently issued accounting standards will have on the Utility’s financial position or results of operations upon adoption. For disclosures related to the adoption of new accounting standards, see the New Accounting Standards section of Note 1 of the Notes to Financial Statements.
 
The Utility continues to monitor the developments of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) relative to possible changes in accounting standards. Currently, the FASB is considering various changes to U. S. GAAP, some of which may be significant, as part of a joint effort with the International Accounting Standards Board to converge accounting standards. Future developments, depending on the outcome, have the potential to impact the Utility’s financial condition and results of operations.
 
FINANCIAL CONDITION
 
CASH FLOWS

Laclede Gas’ short-term borrowing requirements typically peak during colder months when Laclede Gas borrows money to cover the lag between when it purchases its natural gas and when its customers pay for that gas. Changes in the wholesale cost of natural gas (including cash payments for margin deposits associated with the Utility’s use of natural gas derivative instruments), variations in the timing of collections of gas cost under the Utility’s PGA Clause, and the utilization of storage gas inventories cause short-term cash requirements to vary during the year and from year to year, and can cause significant variations in the Utility’s cash provided by or used in operating activities.

Net cash used in operating activities was $61.2 million for the three months ended December 31, 2011 compared with $2.1 million for the three months ended December 31, 2010. The difference is primarily attributable to increased cash payments for margin deposits associated with the Utility’s use of natural gas derivative instruments and other variations associated with the timing of collections of gas cost under the Utility’s PGA Clause, as well as increased cash payments for the funding of pension plans.

Net cash used in investing activities for the three months ended December 31, 2011 was $18.6 million compared with $14.5 million for the three months ended December 31, 2010. Cash used in investing activities primarily reflected capital expenditures in both periods.

Net cash provided by financing activities was $80.2 million for the three months ended December 31, 2011 compared with $16.8 million for the three months ended December 31, 2010. The variation primarily reflects the increased issuance of short-term debt this year and the effect of the maturity of long-term debt last year.


Short-term Debt

As indicated in the discussion of cash flows above, the Utility’s short-term borrowing requirements typically peak during the colder months. These short-term cash requirements can be met through the sale of commercial paper supported by lines of credit with banks or through direct use of the lines of credit. At December 31, 2011, Laclede Gas had a syndicated line of credit in place of $300 million from seven banks, with the largest portion provided by a single bank being 17.9%. This line is scheduled to expire in July 2016. Laclede Gas’ lines of credit include a covenant limiting total debt, including short-term debt, to no more than 70% of total capitalization On December 31, 2011, total debt was 55% of total capitalization.

Due to lower yields available to Laclede Group on its short-term investments, Laclede Group elected to provide a portion of Laclede Gas’ short-term funding through intercompany lending during the three months ended December 31, 2011. Information about the Utility’s short-term borrowings during the three months ended December 31, 2011 and as of December 31, 2011, is presented below:
 
Commercial Paper Borrowings
Borrowings from Laclede Group
Total
Short-Term Borrowings
       
Three Months Ended December 31, 2011
     
   Weighted average borrowings outstanding
$81.2 million
$62.1 million
$143.3 million
   Weighted average interest rate
0.3%
0.3%
0.3%
   Range of borrowings outstanding
$40.0 – $133.5
million
$13.0 - $76.8
million
$98.9 - $180.4
million
       
As of December 31, 2011
     
   Borrowings outstanding at end of period
$113.0 million
$62.8 million
$175.8 million
   Weighted average interest rate
0.3%
0.3%
0.3%
 
 
Based on average short-term borrowings for the three months ended December 31, 2011, an increase in the average interest rate of 100 basis points would decrease the Utility’s pre-tax earnings and cash flows by approximately $1.4 million on an annual basis, portions of which may be offset through the application of PGA carrying costs.

Long-term Debt and Equity

The Utility has MoPSC authority to issue debt securities and preferred stock, including on a private placement basis, as well as to issue common stock, receive paid-in capital, and enter into capital lease agreements, all for a total of up to $518 million, effective through June 30, 2013. During the three months ended December 31, 2011, pursuant to this authority, the Utility sold 11 shares of its common stock to Laclede Group for $0.4 million. For more information on these sales of stock, see Part II., Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds. As of January 27, 2012, $515.3 million remains available under this authorization. The amount, timing, and type of additional financing to be issued will depend on cash requirements and market conditions, as well as future MoPSC authorizations.

At December 31, 2011, Laclede Gas had fixed-rate long-term debt totaling $365 million (including current maturities). While these long-term debt issues are fixed-rate, they are subject to changes in their fair value as market interest rates change. However, increases or decreases in fair value would impact earnings and cash flows only if Laclede Gas were to reacquire any of these issues in the open market prior to maturity. Under GAAP applicable to Laclede Gas’ regulated operations, losses or gains on early redemptions of long-term debt would typically be deferred as regulatory assets or regulatory liabilities and amortized over a future period. Of the Utility’s $365 million in long-term debt, $50 million have no call option, $235 million have make-whole call options, and $80 million are callable at par in 2013. None of the debt has any put options.

Guarantees

Laclede Gas has several operating leases for the rental of vehicles that contain provisions requiring Laclede Gas to guarantee certain amounts related to the residual value of the leased property. These leases have various terms, the longest of which extends into 2015. At December 31, 2011, the maximum guarantees under these leases were $0.9 million. However, the Utility believes it is unlikely that it will be subject to the maximum payment amount because it estimates that the residual value of the leased vehicles will be adequate to satisfy most of the guaranteed amounts. At December 31, 2011, the carrying value of the liability recognized for these guarantees was $0.2 million.

Other

The Utility’s access to capital markets, including the commercial paper market, and its financing costs, may depend on its credit rating. The credit ratings of the Utility remain at investment grade, but are subject to review and change by the rating agencies.

Utility capital expenditures were $18.3 million for the three months ended December 31, 2011, compared with $15.5 million for the same period last year. The increase in capital expenditures, compared with the prior period, is primarily attributable to additional expenditures for distribution plant and information technology investments. During fiscal 2011, Laclede Gas began a multi-year project to enhance its technology, customer service, and business processes by replacing its existing work management, financial, and supply chain software applications.

Capitalization at December 31, 2011 consisted of 56.8% common stock equity and 43.2% long-term debt.

It is management’s view that the Laclede Gas has adequate access to capital markets and will have sufficient capital resources, both internal and external, to meet anticipated capital requirements, which primarily include capital expenditures, scheduled maturities of long-term debt, short-term seasonal needs, and dividends.
 
The seasonal nature of Laclede Gas’ sales affects the comparison of certain balance sheet items at December 31, 2011 and at September 30, 2011, such as Accounts receivable - net, Gas stored underground, Notes payable, Accounts payable, Regulatory assets and Regulatory liabilities, and Advance customer billings. The Balance Sheet at December 31, 2010 is presented to facilitate comparison of these items with the corresponding interim period of the preceding fiscal year.
 

As of December 31, 2011, Laclede Gas had contractual obligations with payments due as summarized below (in millions):

   
Payments due by period
 
       
Remaining
         
Fiscal Years
 
 
Contractual Obligations
 
Total
 
Fiscal Year
2012
 
Fiscal Years
2013-2014
 
Fiscal Years
2015-2016
 
2017 and
thereafter
 
Principal Payments on Long-Term Debt
 
$
365.0
 
$
 
$
25.0
 
$
 
$
340.0
 
Interest Payments on Long-Term Debt
   
452.1
   
13.9
   
43.5
   
42.7
   
352.0
 
Capital Leases (a)
   
0.3
   
0.1
   
0.1
   
0.1
   
 
Operating Leases (a)
   
10.2
   
3.4
   
6.1
   
0.7
   
 
Purchase Obligations – Natural Gas (b)
   
244.3
   
152.2
   
70.6
   
14.1
   
7.4
 
Purchase Obligations – Other (c)
   
91.5
   
28.1
   
23.1
   
18.4
   
21.9
 
Total (d)
 
$
1,163.4
 
$
197.7
 
$
168.4
 
$
76.0
 
$
721.3
 


(a)
Lease obligations are primarily for office space, office equipment, vehicles, and power operated equipment. Additional payments will be incurred if renewal options are exercised under the provisions of certain agreements.
(b)
These purchase obligations represent the minimum payments required under existing natural gas transportation and storage contracts and natural gas supply agreements. These amounts reflect fixed obligations as well as obligations to purchase natural gas at future market prices, calculated using December 31, 2011 NYMEX futures prices. Laclede Gas recovers the costs related to its purchases, transportation, and storage of natural gas through the operation of its PGA Clause, subject to prudence review by the MoPSC; however, variations in the timing of collections of gas costs from customers affect short-term cash requirements. Additional contractual commitments are generally entered into prior to or during the heating season.
(c)
These purchase obligations primarily reflect miscellaneous agreements for the purchase of materials and the procurement of services necessary for normal operations.
(d)
The category of Other Long-Term Liabilities has been excluded from the table above because there are no material amounts of contractual obligations under this category. Long-term liabilities associated with unrecognized tax benefits, totaling $5.7 million, have been excluded from the table above because the timing of future cash outflows, if any, cannot be reasonably estimated. Also, commitments related to pension and postretirement benefit plans have been excluded from the table above. At this writing, Laclede Gas expects to make contributions to its qualified, trusteed pension plans of at least $15.7 million during the remaining nine months of fiscal year 2012. Laclede Gas anticipates a $6.6 million contribution relative to its non-qualified pension plans during the remaining nine months of fiscal year 2012. With regard to the postretirement benefits, the Utility anticipates it will contribute $11.9 million to the qualified trusts and $0.3 million directly to participants from Laclede Gas’ funds during the remaining nine months of fiscal year 2012. For further discussion of the Utility’s pension and postretirement benefit plans, refer to Note 2, Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits, of the Notes to Financial Statements.


Commodity Price Risk

Laclede Gas’ commodity price risk, which arises from market fluctuations in the price of natural gas, is primarily managed through the operation of its PGA Clause. The PGA Clause allows Laclede Gas to flow through to customers, subject to prudence review by the MoPSC, the cost of purchased gas supplies. The Utility is allowed the flexibility to make up to three discretionary PGA changes during each year, in addition to its mandatory November PGA change, so long as such changes are separated by at least two months. The Utility is able to mitigate, to some extent, changes in commodity prices through the use of physical storage supplies and regional supply diversity. Laclede Gas also has a risk management policy that allows for the purchase of natural gas derivative instruments with the goal of managing its price risk associated with purchasing natural gas on behalf of its customers. This policy prohibits speculation. Costs and cost reductions, including carrying costs, associated with the Utility’s use of natural gas derivative instruments are allowed to be passed on to the Utility’s customers through the operation of its PGA Clause. Accordingly, Laclede Gas does not expect any adverse earnings impact as a result of the use of these derivative instruments. However, the timing of recovery for cash payments related to margin requirements may cause short-term cash requirements to vary. Nevertheless, carrying costs associated with such requirements, as well as other variations in the timing of collections of gas costs, are recovered through the PGA Clause. For more information about the Utility’s natural gas derivative instruments, see Note 5, Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, of the Notes to Financial Statements.

Interest Rate Risk

The Utility is subject to interest rate risk associated with its long-term and short-term debt issuances. Based on average short-term borrowings during the three months ended December 31, 2011, an increase of 100 basis points in the underlying average interest rate for short-term debt would have caused an increase in interest expense of approximately $1.4 million on an annual basis. Portions of such increases may be offset through the application of PGA carrying costs. At December 31, 2011, Laclede Gas had fixed-rate long-term debt totaling $365 million (including current maturities). While these long-term debt issues are fixed-rate, they are subject to changes in fair value as market interest rates change. However, increases or decreases in fair value would impact earnings and cash flows only if Laclede Gas were to reacquire any of these issues in the open market prior to maturity. Under GAAP applicable to Laclede Gas’ regulated operations, losses or gains on early redemptions of long-term debt would typically be deferred as regulatory assets or regulatory liabilities and amortized over a future period.

ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS

Laclede Gas owns and operates natural gas distribution, transmission and storage facilities, the operations of which are subject to various environmental laws, regulations and interpretations. While environmental issues resulting from such operations arise in the ordinary course of business, such issues have not materially affected Laclede Gas’ financial position and results of operations. As environmental laws, regulations, and their interpretations change, however, Laclede Gas may be required to incur additional costs. For information relative to environmental matters, see Note 8, Commitments and Contingencies, of the Notes to Financial Statements.


OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS

Laclede Gas has no off-balance sheet arrangements.




Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

For this discussion, see Part I., Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Market Risk, on page 31 of this report.
 
 
Item 4. Controls and Procedures

As of the end of the period covered by this report, we carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Rule 13a-15e and Rule 15d-15e under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Based upon that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective.

There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during our first fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
 

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

For a description of environmental matters and legal proceedings, see Note 8, Commitments and Contingencies, of the Notes to Financial Statements. For a description of pending regulatory matters of Laclede Gas, see Part I., Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Regulatory and Other Matters, on page 26 of this report.

Laclede Gas is involved in litigation, claims and investigations arising in the normal course of business. Management, after discussion with counsel, believes that the final outcome of these matters will not have a material effect on the financial position or results of operations of the Utility.

Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

On December 13, 2011, the Board of Directors of Laclede Gas approved the sale of 11 shares of Laclede Gas common stock to Laclede Group. The proceeds from the sale, totaling $0.4 million, were used to reduce short-term borrowings. Exemption from registration was claimed under Section 4(2) of the Securities Act of 1933.

Item 6. Exhibits

(a)
 


 
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
 
     
Laclede Gas Company
       
Dated:
 
January 27, 2012
 
By: 
/s/ Mark D. Waltermire
         
Mark D. Waltermire
         
Senior Vice President and
         
Chief Financial Officer
         
(Authorized Signatory and Chief Financial Officer)