ML15363A321
Text
Enclosure 6 to ULNRC-06272
10-Q FILED PERIOD 3/31/2015 UNITED STATESSECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSIONWashington, D.C. 20549 FORM 10-Q Quarterly report pursuant to Section13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 for the Quarterly Period Ended March 31, 2015 ORTransition report pursuant to Section13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
for the transition period from to Commission
File Number Exactnameofregistrantasspecifiedinitscharter;
State of Incorporation; Address and Telephone Number IRS Employer
Identification No.
1-14756Ameren Corporation43-1723446(Missouri Corporation) 1901 Chouteau Avenue St. Louis, Missouri 63103 (314) 621-3222 1-2967Union Electric Company43-0559760(Missouri Corporation) 1901 Chouteau Avenue St. Louis, Missouri 63103 (314) 621-3222 1-3672Ameren Illinois Company37-0211380(Illinois Corporation) 6 Executive Drive Collinsville, Illinois 62234 (618) 343-8150 Indicate by check mark whether the registrants: (1)have filed all reports required to be filed by Section13 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 reports), and (2)have been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.
Ameren CorporationYesNoUnion Electric CompanyYesNoAmeren Illinois CompanyYesNoIndicate by check mark whether each registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate website, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).
Ameren CorporationYesNoUnion Electric CompanyYesNoAmeren Illinois CompanyYesNoIndicate by check mark whether each registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company. See definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer" and "smaller reporting company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
LargeAccelerated FilerAccelerated FilerNon-Accelerated FilerSmallerReporting CompanyAmeren Corporation Union Electric Company Ameren Illinois Company Indicate by check mark whether each registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
Ameren CorporationYesNoUnion Electric CompanyYesNoAmeren Illinois CompanyYesNoThe number of shares outstanding of each registrant's classes of common stock as of April 30, 2015, was as follows:
Ameren Corporation Common stock, $0.01 par value per share - 242,634,798 Union Electric Company Common stock, $5 par value per share, held by Ameren Corporation - 102,123,834 Ameren Illinois Company Common stock, no par value, held by Ameren
Corporation - 25,452,373
______________________________________________________________________________________________________This combined Form 10-Q is separately filed by Ameren Corporation, Union Electric Company, and Ameren Illinois Company. Each registrant hereto is filing on its own behalf all of the information contained in this quarterly report that relates to such registrant. Each
registrant hereto is not filing any information that does not relate to such registrant, and therefore makes no representation as to any such
information.
TABLE OF CONTENTS PageGlossary of Terms and Abbreviations Forward-looking StatementsPART I Financial Information Item1.Financial Statements (Unaudited)
Ameren Corporation Consolidated Statement of Income Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income Consolidated Balance Sheet Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows Union Electric Company (d/b/a Ameren Missouri)
Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income Balance Sheet Statement of Cash Flows Ameren Illinois Company (d/b/a Ameren Illinois)
Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income Balance Sheet Statement of Cash Flows Combined Notes to Financial Statements Item2.Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations Item3.Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk Item4.Controls and ProceduresPART II Other Information
Item1.Legal Proceedings Item1A.Risk Factors Item2.Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds Item6.ExhibitsSignaturesThis report contains "forward-looking" statements within the meaning of Section21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements should be read with the cautionary statements and important factors under the heading "Forward-looking Statements." Forward-looking statements are all statements other than statements of historical fact, including those statements that
are identified by the use of the words "anticipates," "estimates," "expects," "intends," "plans," "predicts," "projects," and similar expressions.
11333456778910101112134258596060606062 1GLOSSARY OF TERMS AND ABBREVIATIONSWe use the words "our," "we" or "us" with respect to certain information that relates to Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois, collectively. When appropriate, subsidiaries of Ameren
Corporation are named specifically as their various business
activities are discussed. Refer to the Form 10-K for a complete
listing of glossary terms and abbreviations. Only new or
significantly changed terms and abbreviations are included below.Form 10-K - The combined Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014, filed by the Ameren Companies
with the SEC.
Net shared benefits - The value of the energy savings that are shared by Ameren Missouri and its customers under the MEEIA,
net of the program costs to achieve those energy savings. FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS Statements in this report not based on historical facts are considered "forward-looking" and, accordingly, involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those discussed. Although such forward-looking statements
have been made in good faith and are based on reasonable
assumptions, there is no assurance that the expected results will be achieved. These statements include (without limitation)
statements as to future expectations, beliefs, plans, strategies,
objectives, events, conditions, and financial performance. In
connection with the "safe harbor" provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, we are providing this
cautionary statement to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated.
The following factors, in addition to those discussed under Risk
Factors in the Form 10-K, and elsewhere in this report and in our other filings with the SEC, could cause actual results to differ
materially from management expectations suggested in such
forward-looking statements:* regulatory, judicial, or legislative actions, including changes in regulatory policies and ratemaking determinations, such as the MoPSC's April 2015 electric rate order; Ameren Missouri's December 2014 MEEIA filing; Ameren Illinois'
April 2015 annual electric delivery service formula update filing; Ameren Illinois' January 2015 natural gas delivery
service rate case filing; a settlement agreement requiring FERC approval for an Ameren Illinois electric transmission
rate refund and a prospective reduction to common equity
for ratemaking purposes; the complaint cases filed with the
FERC seeking a reduction in the allowed base return on common equity under the MISO tariff; and future regulatory,
judicial, or legislative actions that seek to change regulatory
recovery mechanisms;* the effect of Ameren Illinois participating in a performance-based formula ratemaking process under the IEIMA, including the direct relationship between Ameren Illinois'
return on common equity and 30-year United States Treasury bond yields, the related financial commitments required by the IEIMA, and the resulting uncertain impact on
the financial condition, results of operations, and liquidity of
Ameren Illinois;* our ability to align our overall spending, both operating and capital, with regulatory frameworks established by our
regulators in an attempt to earn our allowed return on equity;
- the effects of increased competition in the future due to, among other factors, deregulation of certain aspects of our
business at either the state or federal level;* changes in laws and other governmental actions, including monetary, fiscal, tax, and energy policies;* the effects on demand for our services resulting from technological advances, including advances in customer energy efficiency and distributed generation sources, which
generate electricity at the site of consumption;* the effectiveness of Ameren Missouri's customer energy efficiency programs, and the related amount of any net
shared benefits and performance incentive earned under the current and proposed MEEIA plans;* the timing of increasing capital expenditure and operating expense requirements and our ability to recover these costs
in a timely manner;* the cost and availability of fuel such as coal, natural gas, and enriched uranium used to produce electricity; the cost
and availability of purchased power and natural gas for
distribution; and the level and volatility of future market
prices for such commodities, including our ability to recover
the costs for such commodities and our customers'
tolerance for the related rate increases;* the effectiveness of our risk management strategies and our use of financial and derivative instruments;
- business and economic conditions, including their impact on key customers, interest rates, collection of our receivable
balances, and demand for our products;
- disruptions of the capital markets, deterioration in credit metrics of the Ameren Companies, or other events that may have an adverse effect on the cost or availability of capital,
including short-term credit and liquidity;* the impact of the adoption of new accounting guidance and the application of appropriate technical accounting rules and
guidance;
- actions of credit rating agencies and the effects of such actions;
- the impact of weather conditions and other natural phenomena on us and our customers, including the impact
of system outages;* the construction, installation, performance, and cost recovery of generation, transmission, and distribution
assets;* the effects of our increasing investment in electric transmission projects and uncertainty as to whether we will
achieve our expected returns in a timely fashion, if at all;* the extent to which Ameren Missouri prevails in its claim against an insurer in connection with the December 2005 breach of the upper reservoir at the Taum Sauk pumped-
storage hydroelectric energy center;* the extent to which Ameren Missouri is permitted by its regulators to recover in rates the investments it made in 2connection with additional nuclear generation at its Callaway energy center;* operation of Ameren Missouri's Callaway energy center, including planned and unplanned outages, and
decommissioning costs;
- the effects of strategic initiatives, including mergers, acquisitions and divestitures, and any related tax
implications;
- the resolution of tax positions for years under examination by the IRS;* the impact of current environmental regulations and new, more stringent, or changing requirements, including those
related to greenhouse gases, other emissions and
discharges, cooling water intake structures, CCR, and energy efficiency, that are enacted over time and that could
limit or terminate the operation of certain of our energy
centers, increase our costs or investment requirements,
result in an impairment of our assets, cause us to sell our
assets, reduce our customers' demand for electricity or natural gas, or otherwise have a negative financial effect;
- the impact of complying with renewable energy portfolio requirements in Missouri;* labor disputes, work force reductions, future wage and employee benefits costs, including changes in discount
rates, mortality tables, and returns on benefit plan assets;
- the inability of our counterparties to meet their obligations with respect to contracts, credit agreements, and financial
instruments;
- the cost and availability of transmission capacity for the energy generated by Ameren Missouri's energy centers or required to satisfy Ameren Missouri's energy sales;
- the inability of Dynegy and IPH to satisfy their indemnity and other obligations to Ameren in connection with the divestiture of New AER to IPH;* legal and administrative proceedings; and
- acts of sabotage, war, terrorism, cyber attacks, or other intentionally disruptive acts.
Given these uncertainties, undue reliance should not be placed on these forward-looking statements. Except to the extent
required by the federal securities laws, we undertake no
obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking
statements to reflect new information or future events.
3PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATIONITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
AMEREN CORPORATIONCONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME (Unaudited) (In millions, except per share amounts)
Three Months Ended March 31, 20152014Operating Revenues:
Electric$1,143$1,106Gas413488Total operating revenues 1,5561,594Operating Expenses:
Fuel206204Purchased power 139114Gas purchased for resale 236304Other operations and maintenance 401418Depreciation and amortization 193181Taxes other than income taxes 125127Total operating expenses 1,3001,348Operating Income 256246Other Income and Expense:
Miscellaneous income 1918Miscellaneous expense 119Total other income 89Interest Charges 8892Income Before Income Taxes 176163Income Taxes 6664Income from Continuing Operations 11099Loss from Discontinued Operations, Net of Taxes (Note 12)
-(1)Net Income 11098Less: Net Income from Continuing Operations Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests 22Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Ameren Corporation:
Continuing Operations 10897Discontinued Operations
-(1)Net Income Attributable to Ameren Corporation$108$96Earnings per Common Share - Basic:
Continuing Operations$0.45$0.40Discontinued Operations
--Earnings per Common Share - Basic$0.45$0.40Dividends per Common Share$0.41$0.40Average Common Shares Outstanding - Basic 242.6242.6The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
4AMEREN CORPORATIONCONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Unaudited) (In millions)
Three Months Ended March 31, 20152014Income from Continuing Operations$110$99Other Comprehensive Income from Continuing Operations, Net of Taxes
--Comprehensive Income from Continuing Operations 11099Less: Comprehensive Income from Continuing Operations Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests 22Comprehensive Income from Continuing Operations Attributable to Ameren Corporation 10897Loss from Discontinued Operations, Net of Taxes
-(1)Other Comprehensive Loss from Discontinued Operations, Net of Taxes
--Comprehensive Loss from Discontinued Operations Attributable to Ameren Corporation
-(1)Comprehensive Income Attributable to Ameren Corporation$108$96The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
5AMEREN CORPORATIONCONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET (Unaudited) (In millions, except per share amounts)
March 31, 2015December 31, 2014ASSETSCurrent Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents$6$5Accounts receivable - trade (less allowance for doubtful accounts of $23 and $21, respectively) 524423Unbilled revenue 212265Miscellaneous accounts and notes receivable 10081Materials and supplies 449524Current regulatory assets 265295Current accumulated deferred income taxes, net 331352Other current assets 9186Assets of discontinued operations (Note 12) 1515Total current assets 1,9932,046Property and Plant, Net 17,70017,424Investments and Other Assets:
Nuclear decommissioning trust fund 558549Goodwill411411Regulatory assets 1,5771,582Other assets 645664Total investments and other assets 3,1913,206TOTAL ASSETS$22,884$22,676LIABILITIES AND EQUITY Current Liabilities:
Current maturities of long-term debt$380$120Short-term debt 955714Accounts and wages payable 434711Taxes accrued 7946Interest accrued 9485Current regulatory liabilities 107106Other current liabilities 437434Liabilities of discontinued operations (Note 12) 3433Total current liabilities 2,5202,249Long-term Debt, Net 5,8606,120Deferred Credits and Other Liabilities:
Accumulated deferred income taxes, net 3,9643,923Accumulated deferred investment tax credits 6564Regulatory liabilities 1,8971,850Asset retirement obligations 500396Pension and other postretirement benefits 708705Other deferred credits and liabilities 524514Total deferred credits and other liabilities 7,6587,452Commitments and Contingencies (Notes 2, 9, 10 and 12)
Ameren Corporation Stockholders' Equity:
Common stock, $.01 par value, 400.0 shares authorized - shares outstanding of 242.6 22Other paid-in capital, principally premium on common stock 5,6005,617Retained earnings 1,1111,103Accumulated other comprehensive loss(9)(9)Total Ameren Corporation stockholders' equity 6,7046,713Noncontrolling Interests 142142Total equity 6,8466,855TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY$22,884$22,676The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
6AMEREN CORPORATION CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS (Unaudited) (In millions)
Three Months Ended March 31, 20152014Cash Flows From Operating Activities:
Net income
$110$98Loss from discontinued operations, net of taxes
-1Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization 195176Amortization of nuclear fuel 2324Amortization of debt issuance costs and premium/discounts 55Deferred income taxes and investment tax credits, net 5984Allowance for equity funds used during construction(5)(7)Stock-based compensation costs 89Other(11)(1)Changes in assets and liabilities:
Receivables(48)(86)Materials and supplies 75102Accounts and wages payable(215)(183)Taxes accrued 3318Regulatory assets and liabilities 62(40)Assets, other 1410Liabilities, other(33)(11)Pension and other postretirement benefits 2730Counterparty collateral, net(2)10Net cash provided by operating activities - continuing operations 297239Net cash provided by operating activities - discontinued operations 1-Net cash provided by operating activities 298239Cash Flows From Investing Activities:
Capital expenditures(417)(442)Nuclear fuel expenditures(17)(10)Purchases of securities - nuclear decommissioning trust fund(84)(186)Sales and maturities of securities - nuclear decommissioning trust fund 79182Proceeds from note receivable - Marketing Company 556Contributions to note receivable - Marketing Company(5)(65)Net cash used in investing activities - continuing operations(439)(465)Net cash provided by investing activities - discontinued operations
-152Net cash used in investing activities(439)(313)Cash Flows From Financing Activities:
Dividends on common stock(99)(97)Dividends paid to noncontrolling interest holders(2)(2)Short-term debt, net 241332Redemptions of long-term debt
-(163)Other2-Net cash provided by financing activities - continuing operations 14270Net cash used in financing activities - discontinued operations
--Net cash provided by financing activities 14270Net change in cash and cash equivalents 1(4)Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 530Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$6$26The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
7 UNION ELECTRIC COMPANY (d/b/a AMEREN MISSOURI)STATEMENT OF INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Unaudited) (In millions)
Three Months Ended March 31, 20152014Operating Revenues:
Electric$742$749Gas5868Total operating revenues 800817Operating Expenses:
Fuel206204Purchased power 3935Gas purchased for resale 3140Other operations and maintenance 211225Depreciation and amortization 118116Taxes other than income taxes 8078Total operating expenses 685698Operating Income 115119Other Income and Expense:
Miscellaneous income 1114Miscellaneous expense 34Total other income 810Interest Charges 5552Income Before Income Taxes 6877Income Taxes 2629Net Income 4248Other Comprehensive Income
--Comprehensive Income$42$48Net Income$42$48Preferred Stock Dividends 11Net Income Available to Common Stockholder$41$47The accompanying notes as they relate to Ameren Missouri are an integral part of these financial statements.
8UNION ELECTRIC COMPANY (d/b/a AMEREN MISSOURI)
BALANCE SHEET (Unaudited) (In millions, except per share amounts)
March 31, 2015December 31, 2014ASSETSCurrent Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents$1$1Accounts receivable - trade (less allowance for doubtful accounts of $8 and $8, respectively) 202190Accounts receivable - affiliates 365Unbilled revenue 120146Miscellaneous accounts and notes receivable 4235Materials and supplies 361347Current regulatory assets 158163Other current assets 7792Total current assets 9641,039Property and Plant, Net 10,95910,867Investments and Other Assets:
Nuclear decommissioning trust fund 558549Regulatory assets 687695Other assets 387391Total investments and other assets 1,6321,635TOTAL ASSETS$13,555$13,541LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY Current Liabilities:
Current maturities of long-term debt$380$120Borrowings from money pool 61-Short-term debt 14097Accounts and wages payable 182405Accounts payable - affiliates 5956Taxes accrued 6932Interest accrued 5158Current regulatory liabilities 3218Other current liabilities 114117Total current liabilities 1,088903Long-term Debt, Net 3,6193,879Deferred Credits and Other Liabilities:
Accumulated deferred income taxes, net 2,8212,806Accumulated deferred investment tax credits 6261Regulatory liabilities 1,1691,147Asset retirement obligations 493389Pension and other postretirement benefits 277274Other deferred credits and liabilities 3230Total deferred credits and other liabilities 4,8544,707Commitments and Contingencies (Notes 2, 8, 9 and 10)
Stockholders' Equity:
Common stock, $5 par value, 150.0 shares authorized - 102.1 shares outstanding 511511Other paid-in capital, principally premium on common stock 1,7841,569Preferred stock 8080Retained earnings 1,6191,892Total stockholders' equity 3,9944,052TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY$13,555$13,541The accompanying notes as they relate to Ameren Missouri are an integral part of these financial statements.
9UNION ELECTRIC COMPANY (d/b/a AMEREN MISSOURI)STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS (Unaudited) (In millions)
Three Months Ended March 31, 20152014Cash Flows From Operating Activities:
Net income
$42$48Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization 121112Amortization of nuclear fuel 2324Amortization of debt issuance costs and premium/discounts 22Deferred income taxes and investment tax credits, net 2130Allowance for equity funds used during construction(4)(7)Changes in assets and liabilities:
Receivables 602Materials and supplies(14)14Accounts and wages payable(171)(153)Taxes accrued 4030Regulatory assets and liabilities 27(28)Assets, other 35Liabilities, other(5)2Pension and other postretirement benefits 1215Net cash provided by operating activities 15796Cash Flows From Investing Activities:
Capital expenditures(145)(188)Nuclear fuel expenditures(17)(10)Purchases of securities - nuclear decommissioning trust fund(84)(186)Sales and maturities of securities - nuclear decommissioning trust fund 79182Other(2)(2)Net cash used in investing activities(169)(204)Cash Flows From Financing Activities:
Dividends on common stock(315)(77)Dividends on preferred stock(1)(1)Short-term debt, net 43290Money pool borrowings, net 61(105)Capital contribution from parent 224-Net cash provided by financing activities 12107Net change in cash and cash equivalents
-(1)Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 11Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$1$-The accompanying notes as they relate to Ameren Missouri are an integral part of these financial statements.
10 AMEREN ILLINOIS COMPANY (d/b/a AMEREN ILLINOIS)STATEMENT OF INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Unaudited) (In millions)
Three Months Ended March 31, 20152014Operating Revenues:
Electric$390$353Gas355421Total operating revenues 745774Operating Expenses:
Purchased power 10281Gas purchased for resale 205264Other operations and maintenance 202200Depreciation and amortization 7363Taxes other than income taxes 4346Total operating expenses 625654Operating Income 120120Other Income and Expense:
Miscellaneous income 73Miscellaneous expense 54Total other income (expense) 2(1)Interest Charges 3330Income Before Income Taxes 8989Income Taxes 3535Net Income 5454Other Comprehensive Loss, Net of Taxes:
Pension and other postretirement benefit plan activity, net of income taxes (benefit) of $(1) and $(1),
respectively(1)(1)Comprehensive Income$53$53Net Income$54$54Preferred Stock Dividends 11Net Income Available to Common Stockholder$53$53The accompanying notes as they relate to Ameren Illinois are an integral part of these financial statements.
11AMEREN ILLINOIS COMPANY (d/b/a AMEREN ILLINOIS)
BALANCE SHEET (Unaudited) (In millions)
March 31, 2015December 31, 2014ASSETSCurrent Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents$-$1Advances to money pool 33-Accounts receivable - trade (less allowance for doubtful accounts of $15 and $13, respectively) 304212Accounts receivable - affiliates 522Unbilled revenue 92119Miscellaneous accounts receivable 129Materials and supplies 88177Current regulatory assets 105129Current accumulated deferred income taxes, net 159160Other current assets 1315Total current assets 811844Property and Plant, Net 6,2726,165Investments and Other Assets:
Goodwill411411Regulatory assets 883883Other assets 7978Total investments and other assets 1,3731,372TOTAL ASSETS$8,456$8,381LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY Current Liabilities:
Short-term debt$-$32Borrowings from money pool
-15Accounts and wages payable 193207Accounts payable - affiliates 4950Taxes accrued 4117Interest accrued 4324Customer deposits 7677Mark-to-market derivative liabilities 4342Current environmental remediation 4652Current regulatory liabilities 6984Other current liabilities 100100Total current liabilities 660700Long-term Debt, Net 2,2412,241Deferred Credits and Other Liabilities:
Accumulated deferred income taxes, net 1,4211,408Regulatory liabilities 727703Pension and other postretirement benefits 278277Environmental remediation 200199Other deferred credits and liabilities 216192Total deferred credits and other liabilities 2,8422,779Commitments and Contingencies (Notes 2, 8 and 9)
Stockholders' Equity:
Common stock, no par value, 45.0 shares authorized - 25.5 shares outstanding
--Other paid-in capital 1,9801,980Preferred stock 6262Retained earnings 664611Accumulated other comprehensive income 78Total stockholders' equity 2,7132,661TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY$8,456$8,381The accompanying notes as they relate to Ameren Illinois are an integral part of these financial statements.
12AMEREN ILLINOIS COMPANY (d/b/a AMEREN ILLINOIS)STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS (Unaudited) (In millions)
Three Months Ended March 31, 20152014Cash Flows From Operating Activities:
Net income
$54$54Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization 7262Amortization of debt issuance costs and premium/discounts 43Deferred income taxes and investment tax credits, net 1336Other(3)(2)Changes in assets and liabilities:
Receivables(41)(94)Materials and supplies 8988Accounts and wages payable(11)14Taxes accrued 24(1)Regulatory assets and liabilities 33(11)Assets, other 65Liabilities, other 416Pension and other postretirement benefits 1110Counterparty collateral, net(1)12Net cash provided by operating activities 254192Cash Flows From Investing Activities:
Capital expenditures(174)(215)Money pool advances, net(33)-Other-1Net cash used in investing activities(207)(214)Cash Flows From Financing Activities:
Dividends on preferred stock(1)(1)Short-term debt, net(32)-Money pool borrowings, net(15)186Redemptions of long-term debt
-(163)Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities(48)22Net change in cash and cash equivalents(1)-Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 11Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$-$1The accompanying notes as they relate to Ameren Illinois are an integral part of these financial statements.
13AMEREN CORPORATION (Consolidated)UNION ELECTRIC COMPANY (d/b/a Ameren Missouri)
AMEREN ILLINOIS COMPANY (d/b/a Ameren Illinois)COMBINED NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
March31, 2015 NOTE 1 - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING
POLICIESGeneralAmeren, headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, is a public utility holding company under PUHCA 2005, administered by the FERC. Ameren's primary assets are its equity interests in its subsidiaries, including Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois.
Ameren's subsidiaries are separate, independent legal entities
with separate businesses, assets, and liabilities. Dividends on Ameren's common stock and the payment of expenses by
Ameren depend on distributions made to it by its subsidiaries.
Ameren's principal subsidiaries are listed below. Also see the Glossary of Terms and Abbreviations at the front of this report
and in the Form 10-K.* Union Electric Company, doing business as Ameren Missouri, operates a rate-regulated electric generation,
transmission, and distribution business and a rate-regulated
natural gas transmission and distribution business in
- Ameren Illinois Company, doing business as Ameren Illinois, operates rate-regulated electric and natural gas transmission
and distribution businesses in Illinois.
Ameren has various other subsidiaries that conduct activities such as the provision of shared services. Ameren also has a subsidiary, ATXI, that operates a FERC rate-regulated electric transmission business. ATXI is developing MISO-approved
electric transmission projects, including the Illinois Rivers, Spoon River, and Mark Twain projects. Ameren is also pursuing reliability projects within Ameren Missouri's and Ameren Illinois' service
territories as well as competitive electric transmission investment
opportunities outside of these territories, including investments
outside of MISO.
The operating results, assets, and liabilities of the Elgin, Gibson City, Grand Tower, Meredosia, and Hutsonville energy
centers have been presented separately as discontinued
operations for all periods presented in this report. Unless otherwise stated, these notes to Ameren's financial statements
exclude discontinued operations for all periods presented. See Note 12 - Divestiture Transactions and Discontinued Operations
in this report for additional information regarding the discontinued operations presentation and Note 16 - Divestiture Transactions
and Discontinued Operations under Part II, Item 8, of the Form 10-K for additional information regarding Ameren's divestiture of New AER in December 2013.The financial statements of Ameren are prepared on a consolidated basis, and therefore include the accounts of its majority-owned subsidiaries. All intercompany transactions have been eliminated. Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois have no
subsidiaries, and therefore their financial statements are not prepared on a consolidated basis. All tabular dollar amounts are
in millions, unless otherwise indicated.Our accounting policies conform to GAAP. Our financial statements reflect all adjustments (which include normal, recurring adjustments) that are necessary, in our opinion, for a fair presentation of our results. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to
make certain estimates and assumptions. Such estimates and assumptions affect reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the
disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the dates of
financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reported periods. Actual results could differ from those estimates. The results of operations of an interim
period may not give a true indication of results that may be expected for a full year. These financial statements should be
read in conjunction with the financial statements and the notes
thereto included in the Form 10-K.
Asset Retirement Obligations The following table provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending carrying amount of AROs for the three months ended March 31, 2015:
AmerenMissouriAmerenIllinois(a)AmerenBalance at December31, 2014$389$7$396 Accretion in 2015 (b)5(c)5Change in estimates (d)99(c)99Balance at March31, 2015$493$7$500(a) Included in "Other deferred credits and liabilities" on the balance sheet.(b) Accretion expense was recorded as an increase to regulatory assets at Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois.(c) Less than $1 million.
(d) The ARO increase also resulted in a corresponding increase recorded to "Property and Plant, Net." Ameren Missouri's estimates related to its
Callaway energy center decommissioning costs changed to reflect
increased costs from the 2015 cost study and funding analysis, extension of
the estimated operating life until 2044, and a reduction in the discount rate
assumption. See Note 10 - Callaway Energy Center for additional
information. In addition, during the second quarter of 2015, Ameren and Ameren Missouri each expect to record an increase to their ARO related to retirement costs for CCR storage facilities of between
$90 million and $120 million, with a corresponding increase to "Property and Plant, Net." This increase is a result of the EPA's
new regulations for the management and disposal of CCR, which were published in April 2015. See Note 9 - Commitments and
Contingencies in this report for additional information.
14Stock-based CompensationA summary of nonvested performance share units at March31, 2015, and changes during the three months ended March 31, 2015, under the 2006 Incentive Plan and the 2014 Incentive Plan are presented below:
Number of Performance Share Units Weighted-average Fair Value Per Performance Share Unit Nonvested at January 1, 20151,162,377$
35.35Granted(a)566,33252.88Forfeitures(1,944)34.75Vested(b)(68,411)47.88Nonvested at March 31, 20151,658,354$
40.82(a) Performance share units granted to certain executive and nonexecutive officers and other eligible employees in 2015 under the 2014 Incentive Plan.(b) Performance share units vested due to the attainment of retirement eligibility by certain employees. Actual shares issued for retirement-eligible employees will vary depending on actual performance over the three-year measurement period.
The fair value of each performance share unit awarded in 2015 under the 2014 Incentive Plan was determined to be $52.88, which was based on Ameren's closing common share price of $46.13 at December31, 2014, and lattice simulations.
Lattice simulations are used to estimate expected share payout based on Ameren's total stockholder return for a three-year
performance period relative to the designated peer group beginning January1, 2015. The simulations can produce a
greater fair value for the performance share unit than the
applicable closing common share price because they include the
weighted payout scenarios in which an increase in the share price has occurred. The significant assumptions used to calculate fair value also included a three-year risk-free rate of 1.10%,
volatility of 12% to 18% for the peer group, and Ameren's
attainment of a three-year average earnings per share threshold
during the performance period.Excise TaxesAmeren Missouri and Ameren Illinois collect certain excise taxes from customers that are levied on the sale or distribution of natural gas and electricity. Excise taxes are levied on Ameren Missouri's electric and natural gas businesses and on Ameren Illinois' natural gas business and are recorded gross in
"Operating Revenues - Electric," "Operating Revenues - Gas" and "Operating Expenses - Taxes other than income taxes" on
the statement of income or the statement of income and
comprehensive income. Excise taxes for electric service in Illinois
are levied on the customer and are therefore not included in Ameren Illinois' revenues and expenses. The following table
presents excise taxes recorded in "Operating Revenues -
Electric," "Operating Revenues - Gas" and "Operating Expenses -
Taxes other than income taxes" for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014:
Three Months20152014Ameren Missouri$34$34Ameren Illinois 2326Ameren$57$60Uncertain Tax Positions The following table presents the total amount of reserves for unrecognized tax benefits (detriments) related to uncertain tax positions as of March31, 2015, and December31, 2014: March 31, 2015December 31, 2014 Ameren$53$54Ameren Missouri(1)-Ameren Illinois(1)(1)The following table presents the amount of reserves for unrecognized tax benefits, included in the table above, related to
uncertain tax positions that, if recognized, would impact results of operations as of March31, 2015, and December 31, 2014:March 31, 2015December 31, 2014 Ameren$52$52Ameren Missouri(1)-Ameren Illinois(1)(1)In March 2015, a settlement was reached with the IRS for tax year 2012.Since there were no uncertain tax positions
related to the 2012 tax year as of December 31, 2014, this
settlement did not impact the amount of recorded unrecognized
tax benefits.Ameren's federal income tax return for the tax year 2013 is currently under examination by the IRS. It is reasonably possible
that a settlement will be reached with the IRS in the next 12 months, which will result in a reduction of Ameren's unrecognized tax benefits of $53 million related to discontinued operations.
In addition, it is reasonably possible that other events will occur during the next 12 months that would cause the total amount of our unrecognized tax benefits to fluctuate. However,
other than as described above, we do not believe any such
fluctuations would be material to our results of operations, financial position, or liquidity.
State income tax returns are generally subject to examination for a period of three years after filing. We do not 15currently have material state income tax issues under examination, administrative appeal, or litigation. The state impact
of any federal changes remains subject to examination by various
states for a period of up to one year after formal notification to the
states.Earnings Per ShareThere were no material differences between Ameren's basic and diluted earnings per share amounts for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014. The assumed settlement of
dilutive performance share units had an immaterial impact on
earnings per share.
Accounting and Reporting Developments Below is a summary of recently adopted or issued authoritative accounting guidance relevant to the Ameren Companies.
Presentation of Debt Issuance CostsIn April 2015, FASB issued authoritative accounting guidance to simplify the presentation of debt issuance costs. The guidance requires debt issuance costs to be presented in the balance sheet as a reduction to the associated debt liability.
Currently, debt issuance costs are presented as a component of "Other assets" on the Ameren Companies' balance sheets. The guidance will be effective for the Ameren Companies in the first quarter of 2016 and applied retrospectively. The guidance will not affect the Ameren Companies' results of operations, financial position, or liquidity, as this guidance is presentation-related only.NOTE 2 - RATE AND REGULATORY MATTERS Below is a summary of updates to significant regulatory proceedings and related lawsuits. See also Note 2 - Rate and Regulatory Matters under Part II, Item8, of the Form 10-K. We
are unable to predict theultimate outcome of these matters, the
timing of the final decisions of the various agencies and courts, or
the impact on our results of operations, financial position, or liquidity.
Missouri 2015 Electric Rate OrderIn April 2015, the MoPSC issued an order approving an increase in Ameren Missouri's annual revenues for electric service of$122 million, including $109 million related to the
increase in net energy costs above the net energy costs included in base rates previously authorized by the MoPSC. The remaining increase of $13 million approved by the order was for non-energy costs. The revenue increase was based on a 9.53%return on common equity, a capital structure composed of51.8%common equity, and a rate base of$7.0 billion to reflect
investments through December 31, 2014. Rate changes consistent with the order will become effective on May 30, 2015. The order approved Ameren Missouri's request for continued use of the FAC; however, it changed the FAC to exclude substantially all transmission charges and revenues. In
addition, the order did not approve the continued use of the
regulatory tracking mechanisms for storm costs and vegetation management and infrastructure inspection costs. The order did
approve the continued use of the regulatory tracking mechanisms
for pension and postretirement benefits, renewable energy
standard cost, solar rebates, and uncertain tax positions that the
MoPSC authorized in earlier electric rate orders.In addition, the order approved a reduction to Noranda's electric rates with an offsetting increase in electric rates for Ameren Missouri's other customers. The rate shift will be revenue neutral to Ameren Missouri. Ameren Missouri supplies electricity to Noranda's aluminum smelter in southeast Missouri under a 15-
year agreement, which is subject to termination as early as May 31, 2020, and on each May 31 thereafter, upon at least five years notice by either party. Termination of the agreement by Ameren
Missouri would require MoPSC approval.
Ameren Missouri will request a rehearing on several aspects of the MoPSC's order, including the allowed return on common
equity and the elimination of recovery of changes in transmission charges and revenues through the FAC. The MoOPC and the
intervenor parties in this case may similarly seek rehearing or subsequently appeal any aspect of the order. Ameren Missouri
cannot predict whether any such application for rehearing or
appeal will be filed, or the outcome if so filed.Accounting Authority Order In November 2013, the MoPSC issued an accounting authority order that allowed Ameren Missouri to seek recovery of fixed costs totaling $36 million that were not previously recovered
from Noranda as a result of the loss of load caused by a severe 2009 ice storm in a future electric rate case. In its April 2015 electric rate order, the MoPSC did not approve recovery of these fixed costs. Ameren Missouri had not recorded any revenue
associated with this accounting authority order and will not record a charge to earnings based on the outcome of the MoPSC's April 2015 electric rate order. MEEIA FilingIn December 2014, Ameren Missouri filed an energy efficiency plan with the MoPSC under the MEEIA. This filing proposed a three-year plan that includes a portfolio of customer energy efficiency programs along with a cost recovery
mechanism. If the plan is approved, beginning in January 2016, Ameren Missouri intends to invest $135 million over three years in the proposed customer energy efficiency programs. Ameren Missouri requested continued use of a MEEIA rider, which allows it to collect from or refund to customers any difference in the
actual amounts incurred and the amounts collected from customers for the MEEIA program costs and net shared benefits.
In addition, Ameren Missouri requested incentives to earn
additional revenues by achieving certain customer energy efficiency goals, including $25 million if 100% of its customer energy efficiency goals are achieved during the three-year period. Ameren Missouri must achieve at least 70% of its 16customer energy efficiency goals before it earns any incentive award.Illinois IEIMAUnder the provisions of the IEIMA, Ameren Illinois' electric delivery service rates are subject to an annual revenue requirement reconciliation to its actual costs.Throughout each year, Ameren Illinois records a regulatory asset or a regulatory
liability and a corresponding increase or decrease to operating revenues for any differences between the revenue requirement
reflected in customer rates for that year and its estimate of the
probable increase or decrease in the revenue requirement
expected to ultimately be approved by the ICC based on that year's actual costs incurred. As of March31, 2015, Ameren Illinois had recorded regulatory assets of $8 million, $101 million, and $52 million, to reflect its expected 2015, 2014 and 2013
revenue requirement reconciliation adjustments, with interest, respectively. Ameren Illinois is collecting the 2013 revenue
requirement reconciliation adjustment from customers during
2015.In April 2015, Ameren Illinois filed with the ICC its annual electric delivery service formula rate update to establish the
revenue requirement used for 2016 rates. Pending ICC approval, Ameren Illinois' update filing will result in a $110 million increase in Ameren Illinois' electric delivery service revenue requirement, beginning in January 2016. This update reflects an increase to
the annual formula rate based on 2014 actual costs and
expected net plant additions for 2015, an increase to include the
2014 revenue requirement reconciliation adjustment, and a
decrease for the conclusion of the 2013 revenue requirement
reconciliation adjustment, which will be fully collected from
customers in 2015. In April 2015, the IEIMA's formula rate framework was extended until the end of 2019, with further extensions possible
through 2022.
2015 Natural Gas Delivery Service Rate CaseIn January 2015, Ameren Illinois filed a request with the ICC seeking approval to increase its annual revenues for natural gas delivery service by $53 million. The request was based on a 10.25% return on common equity, a capital structure composed of 50% common equity, and a rate base of $1.2 billion. In an attempt to reduce regulatory lag, Ameren Illinois used a 2016
future test year in this proceeding. Included in the request was a
proposal to implement a decoupling rider mechanism for residential and small nonresidential customers. The decoupling
rider would ensure that changes in natural gas sales volumes do not affect Ameren Illinois' annual natural gas revenues for these
rate classes.A decision by the ICC in this proceeding is required by December 2015, with new rates expected to be effective in January 2016. Ameren Illinois cannot predict the level of any
delivery service rate changes the ICC may approve, whether the ICC will approve the decoupling rider, or whether any rate changes that may eventually be approved will be sufficient to enable Ameren Illinois to recover its costs and to earn a
reasonable return on investments when the rate changes go into effect.2013 Natural Gas Delivery Service Rate Order In December 2013, the ICC issued a rate order that approved an increase in Ameren Illinois' revenues for natural gas delivery service based on a 9.1% return on common equity. The rate changes became effective January 1, 2014. In March 2014, Ameren Illinois filed with the Appellate Court of the Fourth District
of Illinois an appeal of the allowed return on common equity included in the ICC's order. Ameren Illinois sought a 10.4% return on common equity in this rate case. A decision is expected in
2015.2015 ICC Purchased Power Reconciliation In January 2015, the ICC issued an order that approved Ameren Illinois' reconciliation of revenues collected under its purchased power rider mechanism and Ameren Illinois' related
cumulative power usage cost. In the first quarter of 2015, based on the January 2015 order, both Ameren and Ameren Illinois recorded a $15 million increase to electric revenues for the
recovery of this cumulative power usage cost from electric
customers.ATXI Transmission ProjectIn August 2014, ATXI made a filing with the ICC requesting a certificate of public convenience and necessity and project approval for the Spoon River project, a MISO-approved transmission line project located in northwest Illinois. A decision is expected from the ICC in 2015. A certificate of public convenience and necessity is required before ATXI can proceed
with right-of-way acquisition.
Federal Ameren Illinois Electric Transmission Rate Refund In July 2012, the FERC issued an order concluding that Ameren Illinois improperly included acquisition premiums, including goodwill, in determining the common equity used in its
electric transmission formula rate and thereby inappropriately
recovered a higher amount from its electric transmission customers. The order required Ameren Illinois to make refunds to
customers for such improperly included amounts.
Ameren Illinois submitted a refund report in November 2012, which concluded that no refund was warranted. Several
wholesale customers filed a protest with the FERC regarding that
conclusion. In June 2013, the FERC issued an order that rejected
Ameren Illinois' November 2012 refund report and provided
guidance as to the filing of a new refund report. In July 2013,
Ameren Illinois filed a revised refund report based on the guidance provided in the June 2013 order, which also concluded
that no refund was warranted. In June 2014, the FERC issued an 17order establishing settlement procedures and, if necessary, hearing procedures regarding Ameren Illinois' July 2013 refund
report. In March 2015, Ameren Illinois reached a settlement agreement with the wholesale customers that resolves the issues in this proceeding. The settlement agreement requires FERC
approval. Upon approval by the FERC, the settlement agreement will require Ameren Illinois to make refunds and payments of $8 million to transmission customers. It will also require Ameren
Illinois to take other actions, such as reducing common equity for
electric transmission ratemaking purposes on a prospective basis. There is no date by which the FERC must act with respect to the settlement agreement. Ameren Illinois estimates the maximum refund obligation through March 31, 2015, to be $23 million. Ameren Illinois' March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 balance sheets included an $8 million and a $7 million current liability, respectively, for its estimate of the probable refund to transmission customers. If Ameren Illinois were to determine that
a refund to its electric transmission customers in excess of the
amount already recorded is probable, an additional charge to
earnings would be recorded in the period in which that
determination was made.
FERC Complaint CasesCurrently, the FERC-allowed base return on common equity for MISO transmission owners is 12.38%. In November 2013, a customer group filed a complaint case with the FERC seeking a
reduction in the allowed base return on common equity for the
FERC-regulated MISO transmission rate base under the MISO tariff to 9.15%. The FERC scheduled the case for hearing
proceedings, requiring an initial decision to be issued no later than November 30, 2015. As the maximum FERC-allowed refund
period for the November 2013 complaint case ended in February
2015, another customer complaint case was filed in February 2015. The February 2015 complaint case seeks a reduction in
the allowed base return on common equity for the FERC-regulated MISO transmission rate base under the MISO tariff to
8.67%. In 2014, the FERC issued orders in a proceeding, in which the Ameren Companies were not involved, reducing the allowed
base return on common equity for New England transmission owners from 11.14% to 10.57%, with rate incentives allowed up to 11.74%. The FERC order in the New England transmission owners' case applied observable market data from October 2012
to March 2013 to determine the allowed base return on common equity. The evidence and the calculation used in the New England transmission owners' case may guide the FERC's decision in the MISO complaint cases discussed above. The
FERC calculation will establish the allowed base return on common equity, which specifies a unique time period for each
complaint case, and will require multiple inputs based on
observable market data specific to the utility industry and broader
macroeconomic data. In January 2015, the settlement judge for
the initial MISO complaint case ordered that July 13, 2015, be the cut-off date for the observable market data to be used in the calculation of the allowed base return on common equity.
Based on the information in these orders, Ameren and Ameren Illinois
recorded current liabilities on their respective balance sheets as
of March 31, 2015, and December 31, 2014, representing their estimate of the refunds from the refund effective date of
November 12, 2013, through the respective balance sheet date.
A 50 basis point reduction in the FERC-allowed return on common equity would reduce Ameren's and Ameren Illinois' 2015 earnings by an estimated $4 million and $2 million, respectively, based on 2015 projected rate base. Ameren Missouri did not
record a liability as of March 31, 2015, and does not expect that a
reduction in the FERC-allowed base return on common equity for
MISO transmission owners would be material to its results of operations, financial position, or liquidity.
Based on a November 2014 request, the FERC approved an incentive adder of up to 50 basis points on the allowed base return on common equity for our participation in an RTO. The incentive adder became effective on January 6, 2015. The FERC
also approved our request to defer collection of the incentive
adder until the issuance of the final order addressing the initial
MISO complaint case.Ameren Missouri Power Purchase Agreement with Entergy Beginning in 2005, the FERC issued a series of orders addressing a complaint filed in 2001 by the Louisiana Public Service Commission against Entergy and certain of its affiliates.
The complaint alleged unjust and unreasonable cost allocations.
As a result of the FERC orders, Entergy began billing Ameren
Missouri in 2007 for additional charges under a 165-megawatt power purchase agreement, which expired August31, 2009. In
May 2012, the FERC issued an order stating that Entergy should not have included additional charges to Ameren Missouri under the power purchase agreement. Pursuant to the order, in June 2012, Entergy paid Ameren Missouri $31 million. In November
2013, Entergy filed an appeal of the FERC's May 2012 order with the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. In March 2015, the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit upheld the FERC's May 2012 order.
Ameren Missouri believes the outstanding issues relating to its
power purchase agreement with Entergy have been resolved and
will not result in a charge to earnings.
Combined Construction and Operating LicenseIn 2008, Ameren Missouri filed an application with the NRC for a COL for a new nuclear unit at Ameren Missouri's existing Callaway County, Missouri, energy center site. In 2009, Ameren Missouri suspended its efforts to build a new nuclear unit at the Callaway site, and the NRC suspended review of the COL application. The suspended status of the COL application
currently extends through the end of 2015.Ameren Missouri estimates the total cost to obtain a COL for the Callaway site to be approximately $100 million. As of March31, 2015, Ameren Missouri had capitalized investments of
$69 million for the development of a new nuclear energy center.
Ameren is currently evaluating all potential nuclear technologies
in order to maintain an option for nuclear power in the future.
18All of Ameren Missouri's capitalized investments for the development of a new nuclear energy center will remain capitalized while management pursues options to maximize the value of its investment. If efforts to license additional nuclear generation are abandoned, if the NRC does not extend the COL application suspended status, or if management concludes it is
probable that the costs incurred will be disallowed in rates, a
charge to earnings would be recognized in the period in which
that determination is made.NOTE 3 - SHORT-TERM DEBT AND LIQUIDITYThe liquidity needs of the Ameren Companies are typically supported through the use of available cash, drawings under committed credit agreements, commercial paper issuances, or, in the case of Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois, short-term intercompany borrowings.The 2012 Missouri Credit Agreement and the 2012 Illinois Credit Agreement, both of which expire on December 11, 2019, were not utilized for direct borrowings during the three months ended March 31, 2015, but were used to support commercial paper issuances and to issue letters of credit. Based on letters of credit issued under the 2012 Credit Agreements, as well as commercial paper outstanding, the aggregate amount of credit capacity available under the 2012 Credit Agreements to Ameren (parent), Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois, collectively, at March31, 2015, was $1.1 billion.
Commercial PaperThe following table presents commercial paper outstanding at Ameren (parent), Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois as of March31, 2015, and December31, 2014.
March 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Ameren (parent)
$815$585Ameren Missouri 14097Ameren Illinois
-32Ameren Consolidated
$955$714The following table summarizes the commercial paper activity and relevant interest rates under Ameren's (parent), Ameren Missouri's, and Ameren Illinois' commercial paper programs for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014. Ameren Illinois established a commercial paper program in May 2014.
Ameren (parent)Ameren MissouriAmerenIllinoisAmerenConsolidated 2015Average daily commercial paper outstanding$691$151$
10$852Weighted-average interest rate0.55%0.49%0.44%0.53%Peak commercial paper during period (a)$815$243$
39$955Peak interest rate0.70%0.60%0.60%0.70%2014 Average daily commercial paper outstanding$339$200$
-$539Weighted-average interest rate0.45%0.45%-%0.45%Peak commercial paper during period (a)$452$290$
-$700Peak interest rate0.75%0.70%-%0.75%(a) The timing of peak commercial paper issuances varies by company, and therefore the peak amounts presented by company might not equal the Ameren Consolidated peak commercial paper issuances for the period.
Indebtedness Provisions and Other CovenantsThe information below is a summary of the Ameren Companies' compliance with indebtedness provisions and other covenants within the 2012 Credit Agreements. See Note 4 -
Short-term Debt and Liquidity under Part II, Item 8, in the Form
10-K for a detailed description of these provisions.The 2012 Credit Agreements contain nonfinancial covenants, including restrictions on the ability to incur liens, to transact with affiliates, to dispose of assets, to make investments in or transfer assets to its affiliates, and to merge with other entities. The 2012 Credit Agreements require each of Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois to maintain consolidated indebtedness of not more than 65% of its consolidated total
capitalization pursuant to a defined calculation set forth in the agreements. As of March31, 2015, the ratios of consolidated
indebtedness to total consolidated capitalization, calculated in accordance with the provisions of the 2012 Credit Agreements, were 51%, 50%, and 46%, for Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois, respectively. In addition, under the 2012 Illinois Credit Agreement and, by virtue of the cross-default provisions of the 2012 Missouri Credit Agreement, under the 2012 Missouri Credit Agreement, Ameren is required to maintain a ratio of
consolidated funds from operations plus interest expense to consolidated interest expense of at least 2.0 to 1.0. However, the
interest coverage requirement only applies at such times as 19Ameren does not have a senior long-term unsecured credit rating of at least Baa3 from Moody's or BBB- from S&P. As of March31, 2015, Ameren exceeded the rating requirements; therefore, the
interest coverage requirement was not applicable. Failure of a
borrower to satisfy a financial covenant constitutes an immediate default under the applicable 2012 Credit Agreement.The 2012 Credit Agreements contain default provisions that apply separately to each borrower; provided, however, that a default of Ameren Missouri or Ameren Illinois under the applicable 2012 Credit Agreement will also be deemed to constitute a default of Ameren under such agreement. Defaults include a
cross-default of such borrower under any other agreement
covering outstanding indebtedness of such borrower and certain
subsidiaries (other than project finance subsidiaries and nonmaterial subsidiaries) in excess of $75 million in the aggregate (including under the other 2012 Credit Agreement).
However, under the default provisions of the 2012 Credit Agreements, any default of Ameren under any 2012 Credit Agreement that results solely from a default of Ameren Missouri or Ameren Illinois thereunder does not result in a cross-default of Ameren under the other 2012 Credit Agreement. Further, the 2012 Credit Agreement default provisions provide that an Ameren default under any of the 2012 Credit Agreements does not constitute a default by Ameren Missouri or Ameren Illinois. None of the Ameren Companies' credit agreements or financing arrangements contain credit rating triggers that would
cause a default or acceleration of repayment of outstanding balances. The Ameren Companies were in compliance with the provisions and covenants of their credit agreements at March31,
2015.Money Pools Ameren has money pool agreements with and among its subsidiaries to coordinate and provide for certain short-term cash
and working capital requirements.Ameren Missouri, Ameren Illinois, and Ameren Services may participate in the utility money pool as both lenders and borrowers. Ameren may participate in the utility money pool only as a lender. Surplus internal funds are contributed to the utility money pool from participants. The primary sources of external funds for the utility money pool are the 2012 Credit Agreements and the commercial paper programs. The total amount available
to the pool participants from the utility money pool at any given
time is reduced by the amount of borrowings made by
participants, but is increased to the extent that the pool
participants advance surplus funds to the utility money pool or remit funds from other external sources. The availability of funds
is also determined by funding requirement limits established by
regulatory authorizations. Participants receiving a loan under the
utility money pool agreement must repay the principal amount of such loan, together with accrued interest. The rate of interest
depends on the composition of internal and external funds in the utility money pool. The average interest rate for borrowing under the utility money pool for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, was 0.08% and 0.39%, respectively. See Note 8 - Related Party Transactions for the amount of interest income and expense from the money pool arrangements recorded by the Ameren Companies for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014.NOTE 4 - LONG-TERM DEBT AND EQUITY Ameren MissouriIn March 2015, Ameren Missouri received cash capital contributions of $224 million from Ameren (parent).
In April 2015, Ameren Missouri issued $250 million of 3.65% senior secured notes due April 15, 2045, with interest payable semiannually on April 15 and October 15 of each year, beginning October 15, 2015. Ameren Missouri received proceeds of $247 million, which were used to repay outstanding short-term debt, including short-term debt that Ameren Missouri incurred in connection with the repayment of $114 million of its 4.75% senior secured notes that matured on April 1, 2015.
Indenture Provisions and Other CovenantsAmeren Missouri's and Ameren Illinois' indentures, credit facilities, and articles of incorporation include covenants and provisions related to issuances of first mortgage bonds and preferred stock. Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois are required to meet certain ratios to issue additional first mortgage bonds and preferred stock. A failure to achieve these ratios would not result in a default under these covenants and provisions, but would restrict the companies' ability to issue bonds or preferred stock. The following table summarizes the required and actual interest coverage ratios for interest charges and dividend coverage ratios and bonds and preferred stock issuable as of March31, 2015, at an assumed annual interest rate of 5% and dividend rate of 6%.
RequiredInterest Coverage Ratio (a)Actual InterestCoverageRatioBondsIssuable (b)RequiredDividend Coverage Ratio (c)ActualDividend Coverage Ratio PreferredStock IssuableAmeren Missouri4.6$3,386113.4$2,530 Ameren Illinois 6.63,423(d)2.8203(e)(a) Coverage required on the annual interest charges on first mortgage bonds outstanding and to be issued. Coverage is not required in certain cases when additional first mortgage bonds are issued on the basis of retired bonds.
20(b) Amount of bonds issuable based either on required coverage ratios or unfunded property additions, whichever is more restrictive. The amounts shown also include bonds issuable based on retired bond capacity of $832 million and $204 million at Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois, respectively.(c) Coverage required on the annual dividend on preferred stock outstanding and to be issued, as required in the respective company's articles of incorporation.(d) Amount of bonds issuable by Ameren Illinois based on unfunded property additions and retired bonds solely under the former IP mortgage indenture. The amount of bonds issuable by Ameren Illinois is also subject to the lien restrictions contained in the 2012 Illinois Credit Agreement. (e) Preferred stock issuable is restricted by the amount of preferred stock that is currently authorized by Ameren Illinois' articles of incorporation. Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois and certain other Ameren subsidiaries are subject to Section305(a) of the Federal Power Act, which makes it unlawful for any officer or director of a public utility, as defined in the Federal Power Act, to participate in
the making or paying of any dividend from any funds "properly included in capital account." The FERC has consistently
interpreted the provision to allow dividends to be paid as long as
(1) the source of the dividends is clearly disclosed, (2) the
dividends are not excessive, and (3) there is no self-dealing on the part of corporate officials. At a minimum, Ameren believes
that dividends can be paid by its subsidiaries that are public utilities from retained earnings. In addition, under Illinois law,
Ameren Illinois may not pay any dividend on its stock, unless, among other things, its earnings and earned surplus are sufficient
to declare and pay a dividend after provision is made for reasonable and proper reserves, or unless Ameren Illinois has
specific authorization from the ICC.Ameren Illinois' articles of incorporation require dividend payments on its common stock to be based on ratios of common stock to total capitalization and other provisions related to certain
operating expenses and accumulations of earned surplus.
Ameren Illinois committed to the FERC to maintain a minimum of 30% equity in its capital structure. As of March31, 2015, Ameren Illinois had 54% of equity in its capital structure.In order for the Ameren Companies to issue securities in the future, we have to comply with all applicable requirements in effect at the time of any such issuances.Off-Balance-Sheet ArrangementsAt March31, 2015, none of the Ameren Companies had any off-balance-sheet financing arrangements, other than operating leases entered into in the ordinary course of business. None of the Ameren Companies expect to engage in any significant off-
balance-sheet financing arrangements in the near future. See Note 12 - Divestiture Transactions and Discontinued Operations for Ameren (parent) guarantees and letters of credit issued to support New AER based on the transaction agreement with IPH.
21NOTE 5 - OTHER INCOME AND EXPENSESThe following table presents the components of "Other Income and Expenses" in the Ameren Companies' statements of income for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014:
ThreeMonths 20152014Ameren:(a)Miscellaneous income:
Allowance for equity funds used during construction
$5$7Interest income on industrial development revenue bonds 77Interest income 42Other32Total miscellaneous income
$19$18Miscellaneous expense:
Donations
$8$5Other34Total miscellaneous expense
$11$9Ameren Missouri:
Miscellaneous income:
Allowance for equity funds used during construction
$4$7Interest income on industrial development revenue bonds 77Total miscellaneous income
$11$14Miscellaneous expense:
Donations
$2$2Other12Total miscellaneous expense
$3$4Ameren Illinois:
Miscellaneous income:
Allowance for equity funds used during construction
$1$-Interest income 42Other21Total miscellaneous income
$7$3Miscellaneous expense:
Donations
$3$3Other21Total miscellaneous expense
$5$4(a) Includes amounts for Ameren registrant and nonregistrant subsidiaries and intercompany eliminations.NOTE 6 - DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTSWe use derivatives to manage the risk of changes in market prices for natural gas, power, and uranium, as well as the risk of changes in rail transportation surcharges through fuel oil hedges.
Such price fluctuations may cause the following:* an unrealized appreciation or depreciation of our contracted commitments to purchase or sell when purchase or sale
prices under the commitments are compared with current
commodity prices;* market values of natural gas and uranium inventories that differ from the cost of those commodities in inventory; and* actual cash outlays for the purchase of these commodities that differ from anticipated cash outlays.
The derivatives that we use to hedge these risks are governed by our risk management policies for forward contracts,
futures, options, and swaps. Our net positions are continually
assessed within our structured hedging programs to determine whether new or offsetting transactions are required. The goal of
the hedging program is generally to mitigate financial risks while ensuring that sufficient volumes are available to meet our
requirements. Contracts we enter into as part of our risk management program may be settled financially, settled by physical delivery, or net settled with the counterparty.
22The following table presents open gross commodity contract volumes by commodity type for derivative assets and liabilities as of March31, 2015, and December31, 2014. As of March31, 2015, these contracts ran through October 2017, October 2019, May 2032, and October 2016 for fuel oils, natural gas, power, and uranium, respectively.
Quantity (in millions, except as indicated) 20152014Commodity AmerenMissouriAmerenIllinoisAmeren AmerenMissouriAmerenIllinoisAmeren Fuel oils (in gallons)
(a)40(b)4050(b)50Natural gas (in mmbtu)2912115028108136Power (in megawatthours) 1101111112Uranium (pounds in thousands) 349(b)349332(b)332(a) Fuel oils consist of heating oil and ultra-low-sulfur diesel.(b) Not applicable.
Authoritative accounting guidance regarding derivative instruments requires that all contracts considered to be derivative instruments be recorded on the balance sheet at their fair values, unless the NPNS exception applies. See Note 7 - Fair Value
Measurements for discussion of our methods of assessing the
fair value of derivative instruments. Many of our physical
contracts, such as our purchased power contracts, qualify for the NPNS exception to derivative accounting rules. The revenue or
expense on NPNS contracts is recognized at the contract price upon physical delivery.
If we determine that a contract meets the definition of a derivative and is not eligible for the NPNS exception, we review the contract to determine if it qualifies for hedge accounting. We
also consider whether gains or losses resulting from such
derivatives qualify for regulatory deferral. Derivative contracts
that qualify for regulatory deferral are recorded at fair value, with
changes in fair value recorded as regulatory assets or regulatory liabilities in the period in which the change occurs. We believe
derivative losses and gains deferred as regulatory assets and
regulatory liabilities are probable of recovery or refund through
future rates charged to customers. Regulatory assets and
regulatory liabilities are amortized to operating income as related
losses and gains are reflected in rates charged to customers.
Therefore, gains and losses on these derivatives have no effect on operating income. As of March31, 2015, and December31,
2014, all contracts that qualify for hedge accounting received
regulatory deferral.
Authoritative accounting guidance permits companies to offset fair value amounts recognized for the right to reclaim cash
collateral (a receivable) or the obligation to return cash collateral
(a liability) against fair value amounts recognized for derivative
instruments that are executed with the same counterparty under a master netting arrangement. The Ameren Companies did not
elect to adopt this guidance for any eligible commodity contracts.
23The following table presents the carrying value and balance sheet location of all derivative commodity contracts, none of which were designated as hedging instruments, as of March31, 2015, and December31, 2014:
Balance Sheet Location AmerenMissouriAmerenIllinoisAmeren2015Fuel oils Other current assets
$1$-$1Natural gas Other current assets
-11PowerOther current assets 7-7Total assets
$8$1$9Fuel oils Other current liabilities
$21$-$21Other deferred credits and liabilities 7-7Natural gas MTM derivative liabilities (a)32(a)Other current liabilities 6-38Other deferred credits and liabilities 81826PowerMTM derivative liabilities (a)11(a)Other current liabilities 1-12Other deferred credits and liabilities
-153153UraniumOther current liabilities 1-1Total liabilities
$44$214$2582014 Fuel oils Other current assets
$2$-$2Natural gas Other current assets 112PowerOther current assets 15-15Total assets
$18$1$19Fuel oils Other current liabilities
$22$-$22Other deferred credits and liabilities 7-7Natural gas MTM derivative liabilities (a)31(a)Other current liabilities 6-37Other deferred credits and liabilities 61319PowerMTM derivative liabilities (a)11(a)Other current liabilities 3-14Other deferred credits and liabilities
-131131UraniumOther current liabilities 2-2Total liabilities
$46$186$232(a) Balance sheet line item not applicable to registrant.
The following table presents the cumulative amount of pretax net gains (losses) on all derivative instruments deferred in regulatory assets or regulatory liabilities as of March31, 2015, and December31, 2014:
AmerenMissouriAmerenIllinoisAmeren2015Fuel oils derivative contracts (a)$(27)$-$(27)Natural gas derivative contracts (b)(14)(49)(63)Power derivative contracts (c)6(164)(158)Uranium derivative contracts (d)(1)-(1)2014 Fuel oils derivative contracts
$(29)$-$(29)Natural gas derivative contracts(11)(43)(54)Power derivative contracts 12(142)(130)Uranium derivative contracts (2)-(2)(a) Represents net losses associated with fuel oils derivative contracts at Ameren Missouri. These contracts are a partial hedge of Ameren Missouri's rail transportation surcharges for coal through December 2017. Current losses deferred as regulatory assets include $20 million at Ameren and Ameren Missouri. (b) Represents net losses associated with natural gas derivative contracts. These contracts are a partial hedge of natural gas requirements through October 2019 at Ameren and Ameren Missouri and through October 2018 at Ameren Illinois. Current gains deferred as regulatory liabilities include $1 million at Ameren and Ameren Illinois, respectively. Current losses deferred as regulatory assets include $38 million, $6 million, and $32 million at Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois, respectively.(c) Represents net gains (losses) associated with power derivative contracts. These contracts are a partial hedge of power price requirements through May 2032 at Ameren and Ameren Illinois and through December 2016 at Ameren Missouri. Current gains deferred as regulatory liabilities include $7 million at Ameren and Ameren Missouri.
Current losses deferred as regulatory assets include $12 million, $1 million, and $11 million at Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois, respectively.(d) Represents net losses on uranium derivative contracts at Ameren Missouri. These contracts are a partial hedge of Ameren Missouri's uranium requirements through December 2016. Current losses deferred as regulatory assets include $1 million at Ameren and Ameren Missouri.
24Derivative instruments are subject to various credit-related losses in the event of nonperformance by counterparties to the transaction.
Exchange-traded contracts are supported by the financial and credit quality of the clearing members of the respective exchanges and have nominal credit risk. In all other transactions, we are exposed to credit risk. Our credit risk management program involves establishing credit
limits and collateral requirements for counterparties, using master netting arrangements, and reporting daily exposure to senior management.We believe that entering into master netting arrangements mitigates the level of financial loss that could result from default by allowing net settlement of derivative assets and liabilities. We generally enter into the following master netting arrangements: (1) the International Swaps and Derivatives Association Agreement, a standardized financial natural gas and electric contract; (2) the Master Power Purchase and Sale Agreement, created by the Edison Electric Institute and the National Energy Marketers Association, a standardized contract for the purchase and sale of wholesale power; and (3) the North American Energy Standards Board Inc. Agreement, a standardized contract for the purchase and sale of natural gas. These master netting arrangements allow the counterparties to net settle sale and purchase transactions.
Further, collateral requirements are calculated at the master netting arrangement level by counterparty.
The following table provides the recognized gross derivative balances and the net amounts of those derivatives subject to an enforceable master netting arrangement or similar agreement as of March31, 2015, and December31, 2014:
Gross Amounts Not Offset in the Balance Sheet Commodity Contracts Eligible to be Offset Gross Amounts Recognized in the Balance Sheet Derivative Instruments Cash Collateral Received/Posted (a)NetAmount2015Assets:
Ameren Missouri
$8$4$-$4Ameren Illinois 1--1Ameren$9$4$-$5Liabilities:
Ameren Missouri
$44$4$4$36Ameren Illinois 214-2212Ameren$258$4$6$2482014 Assets:
Ameren Missouri
$18$5$-$13Ameren Illinois 1--1Ameren$19$5$-$14Liabilities:
Ameren Missouri
$46$5$5$36Ameren Illinois 186--186Ameren$232$5$5$222(a) Cash collateral received reduces gross asset balances and is included in "Other current liabilities" and "Other deferred credits and liabilities" on the balance sheet. Cash collateral posted reduces gross liability balances and is included in "Other current assets" and "Other assets" on the balance sheet.
Concentrations of Credit Risk In determining our concentrations of credit risk related to derivative instruments, we review our individual counterparties and categorize each counterparty into groupings according to the primary business in which each engages. We calculate maximum exposures based on the gross fair value of financial instruments, including NPNS and other accrual contracts. As of March31, 2015, if counterparty groups were to fail completely to perform on contracts, Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois' maximum exposure was $6 million, $5 million, and $1 million, respectively. The potential loss on counterparty exposures is reduced by the application of master netting arrangements and collateral held, to the extent of reducing the exposure to zero. As of March31, 2015, the potential loss after consideration of the application of master netting arrangements and collateral held for Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois was $5 million, $5 million, and $- million, respectively.
Derivative Instruments with Credit Risk-Related Contingent FeaturesOur commodity contracts contain collateral provisions tied to the Ameren Companies' credit ratings. If we were to experience an adverse change in our credit ratings, or if a counterparty with reasonable grounds for uncertainty regarding performance of an obligation requested adequate assurance of performance, additional collateral postings might be required. The following table presents, as of March31, 2015, the
aggregate fair value of all derivative instruments with credit risk-related contingent features in a gross liability position, the cash collateral 25posted, and the aggregate amount of additional collateral that could be required to be posted with counterparties. The additional collateral required is the net liability position allowed under the master netting arrangements, assuming (1) the credit risk-related contingent features underlying these arrangements were triggered on March31, 2015, and (2) those counterparties with rights to do so requested collateral.AggregateFairValueof Derivative Liabilities (a)CashCollateralPosted PotentialAggregateAmountof Additional CollateralRequired (b)2015Ameren Missouri
$87$6$83Ameren Illinois 80274Ameren$167$8$157(a) Prior to consideration of master netting arrangements and including NPNS and other accrual contract exposures.(b) As collateral requirements with certain counterparties are based on master netting arrangements, the aggregate amount of additional collateral required to be posted is determined after consideration of the effects of such arrangements.NOTE 7 - FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS Fair value is defined as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or
liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. We use various methods to determine
fair value, including market, income, and cost approaches. With
these approaches, we adopt certain assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability, including
assumptions about market risk or the risks inherent in the inputs
to the valuation. Inputs to valuation can be readily observable, market-corroborated, or unobservable. We use valuation
techniques that maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs. Authoritative accounting guidance established a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the
inputs used to measure fair value.
All financial assets and liabilities carried at fair value are classified and disclosed in one of three hierarchy levels. See Note 8 - Fair Value Measurements under Part II, Item 8, of the Form 10-K for information related to hierarchy levels. We perform
an analysis each quarter to determine the appropriate hierarchy
level of the assets and liabilities subject to fair value
measurements. Financial assets and liabilities are classified in
their entirety according to the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. All assets and liabilities
whose fair value measurement is based on significant
unobservable inputs are classified as Level 3.
26The following table describes the valuation techniques and unobservable inputs for the fair value of financial assets and liabilities classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy as of March31, 2015:
Fair Value WeightedAverageAssetsLiabilitiesValuation Technique(s)
Unobservable Input RangeLevel 3 Derivative asset and liability - commodity contracts (a):AmerenFuel oils$1$(7)Option modelVolatilities(%)
(b)33 - 8042Discounted cash flowAmeren Missouri credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.40(d)Natural gas1(1)Option modelVolatilities(%)
(e)6 - 3933Nodal basis($/mmbtu)
(e)(0.40) - (0.20)(0.30)Discounted cash flowNodal basis($/mmbtu)
(e)(0.40) - (0.10)(0.30)
Counterparty credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.31 - 12.07 2.47Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.40(d)Power(f)5(165)Discounted cash flowAverage forward peak and off-peak pricing - forwards/
swaps($/MWh)
(g)22 - 4632Estimated auction price for FTRs($/MW)
(e)(597) - 1,922 153Nodal basis($/MWh)
(e)(11) - 0(3)Counterparty credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.29 - 10.98 5.84Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.40(d)Fundamental energy production model Estimated future gas prices($/mmbtu)
(e)3 - 54Escalation rate(%)
(e)(h)1(d)Contract price allocationEstimated renewable energy credit costs($/credit)
(e)5 - 76Uranium-(1)Discounted cash flowAverage forward uranium pricing($/pound)
(e)40 - 4340Ameren MissouriFuel oils$1$(7)Option modelVolatilities(%)
(b)33 - 8042Discounted cash flowAmeren Missouri credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.40(d)Natural gas-(1)Option modelVolatilities(%)
(e)6 - 3933Nodal basis($/mmbtu)
(e)(0.40) - (0.20)(0.30)Discounted cash flowNodal basis($/mmbtu)
(e)(0.10)(d)Counterparty credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.54 - 12.07 5Ameren Missouri credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.40(d)Power(f)5(1)Discounted cash flowAverage forward peak and off-peak pricing - forwards/
swaps($/MWh)
(b)24 - 4636Estimated auction price for FTRs($/MW)
(e)(597) - 1,922 153Nodal basis($/MWh)
(b)(11) - (4)
(8)Counterparty credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.29 - 10.98 5.84Uranium-(1)Discounted cash flowAverage forward uranium pricing($/pound)
(e)40 - 4340Ameren IllinoisNatural gas$1$-Discounted cash flowNodal basis($/mmbtu)
(e)(0.40) - (0.10)(0.30)
Counterparty credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.31 - 2.28 1.28Ameren Illinois credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.40(d)Power(f)-(164)Discounted cash flowAverage forward peak and off-peak pricing - forwards/
swaps($/MWh)
(e)22 - 3831Nodal basis($/MWh)
(e)(6) - 0(3)Ameren Illinois credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.40(d)Fundamental energy
production model Estimated future gas prices($/mmbtu)
(e)3 - 54Escalation rate(%)
(e)(h)1(d)Contract price allocationEstimated renewable energy credit costs($/credit)
(e)5 - 76(a) The derivative asset and liability balances are presented net of counterparty credit considerations.(b) Generally, significant increases (decreases) in this input in isolation would result in a significantly lower (higher) fair value measurement.
(c) Counterparty credit risk is applied only to counterparties with derivative asset balances. Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois credit risk is applied only to counterparties with derivative liability balances.(d) Not applicable.
(e) Generally, significant increases (decreases) in this input in isolation would result in a significantly higher (lower) fair value measurement.
(f) Power valuations use visible third-party pricing evaluated by month for peak and off-peak demand through 2018. Valuations beyond 2018 use fundamentally modeled pricing by month for peak and off-peak demand.(g) The balance at Ameren is comprised of Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois power contracts, which respond differently to unobservable input changes due to their opposing positions. As such, refer to the power sensitivity analysis for each company above.
27(h) Escalation rate applies to power prices 2026 and beyond.
The following table describes the valuation techniques and unobservable inputs for the fair value of financial assets and liabilities classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy as of December31, 2014:
Fair Value WeightedAssetsLiabilitiesValuation Technique(s)
Unobservable InputRangeAverage Level 3 Derivative asset and liability - commodity contracts (a):AmerenFuel oils$2$(8)Option modelVolatilities(%)
(b)3 - 3932Discounted cash flowAmeren Missouri credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.43(d)Escalation rate(%)
(e)(f)5(d)Natural Gas1(2)Option modelVolatilities(%)
(b)31 - 14463Nodal basis($/mmbtu)
(e)(0.40) - 0 (0.20)Discounted cash flowNodal basis($/mmbtu)
(e)(0.40) - 0.10(0.20)
Counterparty credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.43 - 13 3Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.43(d)Power(g)11(144)Discounted cash flowAverage forward peak and off-peak pricing - forwards/
swaps($/MWh)
(h)27 - 5032Estimated auction price for FTRs($/MW)
(e)(1,833) - 2,743171 Nodal basis($/MWh)
(e)(6) - 0(2)Counterparty credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.26(d)Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.43(d)Fundamental energy production model Estimated future gas prices($/mmbtu)
(e)4 - 54Escalation rate(%)
(e)(i)0 - 11Contract price allocationEstimated renewable energy credit costs($/credit)
(e)5 - 76Uranium-(2)Discounted cash flowAverage forward uranium pricing($/pound)
(e)35 - 4036Ameren MissouriFuel oils$2$(8)Option modelVolatilities(%)
(b)3 - 3932Discounted cash flowAmeren Missouri credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.43(d)Escalation rate(%)
(e)(f)5(d)Natural Gas-(1)Option modelVolatilities(%)
(b)31 - 14453Nodal basis($/mmbtu)
(e)(0.40) - 0 (0.30)Discounted cash flowNodal basis($/mmbtu)
(e)(0.10)(d)Counterparty credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.57 - 13 5Ameren Missouri credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.43(d)Power(g)11(2)Discounted cash flowAverage forward peak and off-peak pricing - forwards/
swaps($/MWh)
(b)27 - 5032Estimated auction price for FTRs($/MW)
(e)(1,833) - 2,743171 Counterparty credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.26(d)Ameren Missouri credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.43(d)Uranium-(2)Discounted cash flowAverage forward uranium pricing($/pound)
(e)35 - 4036Ameren IllinoisNatural Gas$1$(1)Option modelVolatilities(%)
(b)50 - 14494Nodal basis($/mmbtu)
(e)(0.10) - 0 (0.10)Discounted cash flowNodal basis($/mmbtu)
(e)(0.40) - 0.10(0.20)
Counterparty credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.43 - 20.83Ameren Illinois credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.43(d)Power(g)-(142)Discounted cash flowAverage forward peak and off-peak pricing - forwards/
swaps($/MWh)
(e)27 - 3832Nodal basis($/MWh)
(e)(6) - 0(2)Ameren Illinois credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.43(d)Fundamental energy
production model Estimated future gas prices($/mmbtu)
(e)4 - 54Escalation rate(%)
(e)(i)0 - 11Contract price allocationEstimated renewable energy credit costs($/credit)
(e)5 - 76(a) The derivative asset and liability balances are presented net of counterparty credit considerations.(b) Generally, significant increases (decreases) in this input in isolation would result in a significantly lower (higher) fair value measurement.
28(c) Counterparty credit risk is applied only to counterparties with derivative asset balances. Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois credit risk is applied only to counterparties with derivative liability balances.(d) Not applicable.(e) Generally, significant increases (decreases) in this input in isolation would result in a significantly higher (lower) fair value measurement.
(f) Escalation rate applies to fuel oil prices 2017 and beyond.
(g) Power valuations use visible third-party pricing evaluated by month for peak and off-peak demand through 2018. Valuations beyond 2018 use fundamentally modeled pricing by month for peak and off-peak demand.(h) The balance at Ameren is comprised of Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois power contracts, which respond differently to unobservable input changes due to their opposing positions. As such, refer to the power sensitivity analysis for each company above.(i) Escalation rate applies to power prices 2026 and beyond.
In accordance with applicable authoritative accounting guidance, we consider nonperformance risk in our valuation of derivative instruments by analyzing the credit standing of our counterparties and considering any counterparty credit enhancements (e.g., collateral).
The guidance also requires that the fair value measurement of liabilities reflect the nonperformance risk of the reporting entity
, as applicable.
Therefore, we have factored the impact of our credit standing, as well as any potential credit enhancements, into the fair value measurement
of both derivative assets and derivative liabilities. Included in our valuation, and based on current market conditions, is a valuation adjustment
for counterparty default derived from market data such as the price of credit default swaps, bond yields, and credit ratings. No gains or losses related to valuation adjustments for counterparty default risk were recorded at Ameren, Ameren Missouri, or Ameren Illinois in the first quarter of 2015 or 2014. At March31, 2015, the counterparty default risk liability valuation adjustment related to derivative contracts totaled $1 million, less than $1 million, and $1 million, for Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois, respectively. At December31, 2014, the counterparty default risk liability valuation adjustment related to derivative contracts totaled $1 million, less than $1 million, and $1 million, for Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois, respectively.
29The following table sets forth, by level within the fair value hierarchy, our assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of March31, 2015:
QuotedPricesin ActiveMarketsforIdentical Assets or Liabilities (Level 1)
SignificantOther ObservableInputs (Level 2)
SignificantOther Unobservable Inputs(Level 3)
TotalAssets:AmerenDerivative assets - commodity contracts (a):Fuel oils
$-$-$1$1Natural gas
--11Power-257Total derivative assets - commodity contracts$-$2$7$9Nuclear decommissioning trust fund:
Cash and cash equivalents
$2$-$-$2Equity securities:
U.S. large capitalization 368--368Debt securities:
Corporate bonds 65U.S. treasury and agency securities
-101-101Other-20-20Total nuclear decommissioning trust fund$370$186$-$556(b)Total Ameren
$370$188$7$565AmerenDerivative assets - commodity contracts (a):MissouriFuel oils
$-$-$1$1Power-257Total derivative assets - commodity contracts$-$2$6$8Nuclear decommissioning trust fund:
Cash and cash equivalents
$2$-$-$2Equity securities:
U.S. large capitalization 368--368Debt securities:
Corporate bonds 65U.S. treasury and agency securities
-101-101Other-20-20Total nuclear decommissioning trust fund$370$186$-$556(b)Total Ameren Missouri
$370$188$6$564AmerenDerivative assets - commodity contracts (a):IllinoisNatural gas
$-$-$1$1Liabilities:
AmerenDerivative liabilities - commodity contracts (a):Fuel oils
$21$-$7$28Natural gas
-63164Power--165165Uranium--11Total Ameren
$21$63$174$258AmerenDerivative liabilities - commodity contracts (a):MissouriFuel oils
$21$-$7$28Natural gas
-13114Power--11Uranium--11Total Ameren Missouri
$21$13$10$44AmerenDerivative liabilities - commodity contracts (a):IllinoisNatural gas
$-$50$-$50Power--164164Total Ameren Illinois
$-$50$164$214(a) The derivative asset and liability balances are presented net of counterparty credit considerations.(b) Balance excludes $2 million of receivables, payables, and accrued income, net.
30The following table sets forth, by level within the fair value hierarchy, our assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December31, 2014:
QuotedPricesin ActiveMarketsforIdentical Assets or Liabilities (Level 1)
SignificantOther ObservableInputs (Level 2)
SignificantOther Unobservable Inputs(Level 3)
TotalAssets:AmerenDerivative assets - commodity contracts (a):Fuel oils
$-$-$2$2Natural gas
-112Power-41115Total derivative assets - commodity contracts$-$5$14$19Nuclear decommissioning trust fund:
Cash and cash equivalents
$1$-$-$1Equity securities:
U.S. large capitalization 364--364Debt securities:
Corporate bonds 63U.S. treasury and agency securities
-102-102Other-17-17Total nuclear decommissioning trust fund$365$182$-$547(b)Total Ameren
$365$187$14$566AmerenDerivative assets - commodity contracts (a):MissouriFuel oils
$-$-$2$2Natural gas 1Power-41115Total derivative assets - commodity contracts$-$5$13$18Nuclear decommissioning trust fund:
Cash and cash equivalents
$1$-$-$1Equity securities:
U.S. large capitalization 364--364Debt securities:
Corporate bonds 63U.S. treasury and agency securities
-102-102Other-17-17Total nuclear decommissioning trust fund$365$182$-$547(b)Total Ameren Missouri
$365$187$13$565AmerenDerivative assets - commodity contracts (a):IllinoisNatural gas
$-$-$1$1Liabilities:
AmerenDerivative liabilities - commodity contracts (a):Fuel oils
$21$-$8$29Natural gas 153256Power-1144145Uranium--22Total Ameren
$22$54$156$232AmerenDerivative liabilities - commodity contracts (a):MissouriFuel oils
$21$-$8$29Natural gas 110112Power-123Uranium--22Total Ameren Missouri
$22$11$13$46AmerenDerivative liabilities - commodity contracts (a):IllinoisNatural gas
$-$43$1$44Power--142142Total Ameren Illinois
$-$43$143$186(a) The derivative asset and liability balances are presented net of counterparty credit considerations.(b) Balance excludes $2 million of receivables, payables, and accrued income, net.
31The following table summarizes the changes in the fair value of financial assets and liabilities classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy for the three months ended March 31, 2015:
Net derivative commodity contracts AmerenMissouriAmerenIllinoisAmerenFuel oils:
Beginning balance at January1, 2015
$(6)$(a)$(6)Realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in regulatory assets/liabilities (1)(a)(1)Settlements 1(a)1Ending balance at March 31, 2015
$(6)$(a)$(6)Change in unrealized gains (losses) related to assets/liabilities held at March 31, 2015$
(3)$(a)$(3)Natural gas:
Beginning balance at January1, 2015
$(1)$-$(1)Purchases
-11Ending balance at March 31, 2015
$(1)$1$-Change in unrealized gains (losses) related to assets/liabilities held at March 31, 2015$
-$-$-Power:
Beginning balance at January1, 2015
$9$(142)$(133)Realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in regulatory assets/liabilities (2)(25)(27)Settlements (3)3-Ending balance at March 31, 2015
$4$(164)$(160)Change in unrealized gains (losses) related to assets/liabilities held at March 31, 2015$
-$(24)$(24)Uranium:
Beginning balance at January1, 2015
$(2)$(a)$(2)Realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in regulatory assets/liabilities 1(a)1Ending balance at March 31, 2015
$(1)$(a)$(1)Change in unrealized gains (losses) related to assets/liabilities held at March 31, 2015$1$(a)$1(a) Not applicable.
The following table summarizes the changes in the fair value of financial assets and liabilities classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy for the three months ended March 31, 2014:
Net derivative commodity contracts AmerenMissouriAmerenIllinoisAmerenFuel oils:
Beginning balance at January1, 2014
$5$(a)$5Realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in regulatory assets/liabilities (2)(a)(2)Settlements (2)(a)(2)Ending balance at March 31, 2014
$1$(a)$1Change in unrealized gains (losses) related to assets/liabilities held at March 31, 2014
$(1)$(a)$(1)Natural gas:
Beginning balance at January1, 2014
$-$-$-Purchases
-(2)(2)Settlements
-22Ending balance at March 31, 2014
$-$-$-Change in unrealized gains (losses) related to assets/liabilities held at March 31, 2014$
-$-$-Power:
Beginning balance at January1, 2014
$19$(108)$(89)Realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in regulatory assets/liabilities (5)(12)(17)Settlements (5)-(5)Transfers out of Level 3 1-1Ending balance at March 31, 2014
$10$(120)$(110)Change in unrealized gains (losses) related to assets/liabilities held at March 31, 2014
$(1)$(14)$(15)Uranium:
Beginning balance at January1, 2014
$(6)$(a)$(6)Settlements 1(a)1Ending balance at March 31, 2014
$(5)$(a)$(5)Change in unrealized gains (losses) related to assets/liabilities held at March 31, 2014
$-$(a)$-(a) Not applicable.
32Transfers in or out of Level 3 represent either (1)existing assets and liabilities that were previously categorized as a higher level, but were recategorized to Level 3, because the inputs to the model became unobservable during the period or (2)existing assets and liabilities that were previously classified as Level 3, but were recategorized to a higher level because the lowest significant input became observable during the period. Transfers between Level 2 and Level 3 for power derivatives were primarily caused by changes in availability of similar financial trades observable on electronic exchanges between the periods. Any reclassifications are reported as transfers out of Level 3 at the fair value measurement reported at the beginning of the period in which the changes occur. For the three months ended March31, 2015 and
2014, there were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 or between Level 2 and Level 3 related to derivative commodity contracts, with the exception of $1 million of transfers out of Level 3 into Level 2 related to power contracts at Ameren and Ameren Missouri for the three months ended March31, 2014.The Ameren Companies' carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalents approximate fair value because of the short-term nature of these instruments. They are considered to be Level 1 in the fair value hierarchy. The Ameren Companies' short-term borrowings also
approximate fair value because of their short-term nature. Short-term borrowings are considered to be Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy
, as they are valued based on market rates for similar market transactions. The estimated fair value of long-term debt and preferred stock is
based on the quoted market prices for same or similar issuances for companies with similar credit profiles or on the current rates of fered to the Ameren Companies for similar financial instruments, which fair value measurement is considered Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy.
The following table presents the carrying amounts and estimated fair values of our long-term debt, capital lease obligations and preferred stock at March31, 2015, and December31, 2014:
March 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 CarryingAmountFairValueCarryingAmountFairValueAmeren:(a)Long-term debt and capital lease obligations (including current portion)$6,240$7,127
$6,240$7,135Preferred stock 142123142122Ameren Missouri:
Long-term debt and capital lease obligations (including current portion)$3,999$4,574
$3,999$4,518Preferred stock 80748073Ameren Illinois:
Long-term debt$2,241$2,553
$2,241$2,517Preferred stock 62496249(a) Preferred stock is recorded in "Noncontrolling Interests" on the consolidated balance sheet.NOTE 8 - RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS Ameren (parent) and its subsidiaries have engaged in, and may in the future engage in, affiliate transactions in the normal course of business. These transactions primarily consist of power
purchases and sales, services received or rendered, and
borrowings and lendings.Transactions between affiliates are reported as intercompany transactions on their respective financial statements but are eliminated in consolidation for Ameren's
financial statements. For a discussion of our material related party agreements, see Note 14 - Related Party Transactions
under Part II, Item8, of the Form 10-K and the money pool arrangements discussed in Note 3 - Short-term Debt and
Liquidity of this report.Electric Power Supply AgreementsIn April 2015, Ameren Illinois used an RFP process, administered by the IPA, to procure energy products from June1, 2015, through May 31, 2018. Ameren Missouri was among the winning suppliers in the energy product RFP process. As a result, in 2015, Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois entered into energy product agreements by which Ameren Missouri agreed to sell and Ameren Illinois agreed to purchase 667,000 megawatthours at an average price of $36 per megawatthour during the period of
June1, 2015, through June 30, 2017.
33The following table presents the impact on Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois of related party transactions for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014.
Three Months Agreement Income Statement Line Item AmerenMissouriAmerenIllinoisAmeren Missouri power supply Operating Revenues2015$1$(a) agreements with Ameren Illinois2014(b)(a)
Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois Operating Revenues 201561rent and facility services 20145(b)Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois Operating Revenues2015(b)(b) miscellaneous support services2014(b)(b)
Total Operating Revenues2015$7$120145(b)Ameren Illinois power supply Purchased Power2015$(a)$1 agreements with Ameren Missouri2014(a)(b)
Ameren Illinois transmission Purchased Power2015(a)1services with ATXI2014(a)1Total Purchased Power2015$(a)$2 2014(a)1Ameren Services support services Other Operations and Maintenance2015$34$29agreement 20143327Total Other Operations and2015$34$29Maintenance Expenses 20143327Money pool borrowings (advances)
Interest Charges/ Miscellaneous2015$(b)$(b)
Income2014(b)(b)(a) Not applicable.(b) Amount less than $1 million.NOTE 9 - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES We are involved in legal, tax and regulatory proceedings before various courts, regulatory commissions, authorities and governmental agencies with respect to matters that arise in the ordinary course of business, some of which involve substantial amounts of money. We believe that the final disposition of these proceedings, except as otherwise disclosed in the notes to our financial statements in this report and in our Form 10-K, will not have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial position, or liquidity.Reference is made to Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, Note 2 - Rate and Regulatory Matters, Note 14 - Related Party Transactions, Note 15 - Commitments and Contingencies, and Note 16 - Divestiture Transactions and Discontinued Operations under Part II, Item8, of the Form 10-K. See also Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, Note 2 - Rate and Regulatory Matters, Note 8
- Related Party Transactions, Note 10 - Callaway Energy Center, and Note 12 - Divestiture Transactions and Discontinued Operations in this
report.Callaway Energy CenterThe following table presents insurance coverage at Ameren Missouri's Callaway energy center at March31, 2015. The property coverage and the nuclear liability coverage must be renewed on April1 and January1, respectively, of each year. Both coverages were renewed in 2015.
Type and Source of Coverage MaximumCoverages MaximumAssessments for Single Incidents Public liability and nuclear worker liability:
American Nuclear Insurers$375$-Pool participation 13,241(a)128(b)$13,616(c)$128Property damage:
NEIL$2,750(d)$26(e)European Mutual Association for Nuclear Insurance 500(f)-$3,250$26Replacement power:
NEIL$490(g)$9(e) 34(a) Provided through mandatory participation in an industrywide retrospective premium assessment program.(b) Retrospective premium under the Price-Anderson Act. This is subject to retrospective assessment with respect to a covered loss in excess of $375 million in the event of an incident at any licensed United States commercial reactor, payable at $19 million per year.(c) Limit of liability for each incident under the Price-Anderson liability provisions of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, as amended. A company could be assessed up to $128 million per incident for each licensed reactor it operates with a maximum of $19 million per incident to be paid in a calendar year for each reactor. This limit is subject to change to account for the effects of inflation and changes in the number of licensed reactors.(d) NEIL provides $2.25 billion in property damage, decontamination, and premature decommissioning insurance for both radiation and nonradiation events. An additional $500 million is provided for radiation events only for a total of $2.75 billion. (e) All NEIL insured plants could be subject to assessments should losses exceed the accumulated funds from NEIL.
(f) European Mutual Association for Nuclear Insurance provides $500 million in excess of the $2.75 billion and $2.25 billion property coverage for radiation and nonradiation events, respectively, provided by NEIL.(g) Provides replacement power cost insurance in the event of a prolonged accidental outage. Weekly indemnity up to $4.5 million for 52 weeks, which commences after the first twelve weeks of an outage, plus up to $3.6 million per week for a minimum of 71 weeks thereafter for a total not exceeding the policy limit of $490 million.
Nonradiation events are sub-limited to $328 million.The Price-Anderson Act is a federal law that limits the liability for claims from an incident involving any licensed United States commercial nuclear energy center. The limit is based on the number of licensed reactors. The limit of liability and the maximum potential annual payments are adjusted at least every five years for inflation to reflect changes in the Consumer Price Index. The most recent five-year inflationary adjustment became effective in September 2013. Owners of a nuclear reactor cover this exposure through a combination of private insurance and mandatory participation in a financial protection pool, as established by the Price-Anderson Act.Losses resulting from terrorist attacks on nuclear facilities are covered under NEIL's policies, subject to an industrywide aggregate policy limit of $3.24 billion within a 12-month period, or $1.83 billion for events not involving radiation contamination.If losses from a nuclear incident at the Callaway energy center exceed the limits of, or are not covered by, insurance, or if coverage is unavailable, Ameren Missouri is at risk for any uninsured losses. If a serious nuclear incident were to occur, it could have a material adverse effect on Ameren's and Ameren Missouri's results of operations, financial position, or liquidity.
Other ObligationsTo supply a portion of the fuel requirements of Ameren Missouri's energy centers, Ameren Missouri has entered into various long-term commitments for the procurement of coal, natural gas, nuclear fuel, and methane gas. Additionally, Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois also have entered into various long-
term commitments for purchased power and natural gas for
distribution. For a complete listing of our obligations and
commitments, see Note 15 - Commitments and Contingencies
under Part II, Item 8 of the Form 10-K. At March31, 2015, total other obligations related to commitments for coal, natural gas, nuclear fuel, purchased power, methane gas, equipment, customer energy efficiency
program expenditures and meter reading services, among other agreements, at Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois were $5,326 million, $3,577 million, and $1,702 million, respectively. In April 2015, Ameren Illinois used an RFP process, administered by the IPA, to procure energy products from June1, 2015, through May31, 2018. Ameren Illinois contracted to purchase approximately 5,526,000 megawatthours of energy products for $185 million during this period.
Environmental MattersWe are subject to various environmental laws and regulations enforced by federal, state, and local authorities. From the beginning phases of siting and development to the operation
of existing or new electric generation, transmission and
distribution facilities and natural gas storage, transmission and
distribution facilities, our activities involve compliance with diverse environmental laws and regulations. These laws and regulations address emissions, discharges to water, water usage, impacts to air, land, and water, and chemical and waste handling.
Complex and lengthy processes are required to obtain and renew approvals, permits, or licenses for new, existing or modified facilities. Additionally, the use and handling of various chemicals
or hazardous materials require release prevention plans and
emergency response procedures.The EPA is developing and implementing environmental regulations that will have a significant impact on the electric utility industry. Over time, compliance with these regulations could be costly for certain companies, including Ameren Missouri, that
operate coal-fired power plants. Significant new rules proposed
or promulgated include the regulation of CO 2 emissions from existing power plants through the proposed Clean Power Plan
and from new power plants through the revised NSPS; the
CSAPR, which requires further reductions of SO 2 emissions and NOx emissions from power plants; a regulation governing management of CCR and CCR landfills and impoundments; the MATS, which require reduction of emissions of mercury, toxic
metals, and acid gases from power plants; revised NSPS for particulate matter, SO 2, and NOx emissions from new sources; new effluent standards applicable to waste water discharges from power plants and new regulations under the Clean Water Act that
could require significant capital expenditures, such as
modifications to water intake structures or new cooling towers at Ameren Missouri's energy centers. Certain of these new and
proposed regulations, if adopted, are likely to be challenged
through litigation, so their ultimate implementation, as well as the timing of any such implementation, is uncertain. Although many
details of the future regulations are unknown, the combined effects of the new and proposed environmental regulations could
result in significant capital expenditures and increased operating 35costs for Ameren and Ameren Missouri. The EPA also periodically reviews and revises national ambient air quality standards, including those standards associated with particulate matter,
ozone, and emissions from power plants such as SO 2, NOx. Compliance with all of these environmental laws and regulations
could be prohibitively expensive, result in the closure or alteration of the operation of some of Ameren Missouri's energy centers, or require capital investment. Ameren and Ameren Missouri expect
these costs would be recoverable through rates, subject to MoPSC prudence review, but the nature and timing of costs, as
well as the applicable regulatory framework, could result in
regulatory lag.As of March31, 2015, Ameren and Ameren Missouri estimate capital expenditure investments of $350 million to $400 million through 2019 to comply with existing environmental
regulations. Considerable uncertainty remains in this estimate.
The actual amount of capital investments required to comply with
existing environmental regulations may vary substantially from
the above estimate due to uncertainty as to the precise
compliance strategies that will be used and their ultimate cost, among other things. This estimate does not include the impacts of the proposed Clean Power Plan's reduction in emissions of
CO2, but does include our preliminary estimate of the capital expenditures required for the CCR regulations that were published in April 2015, both of which are discussed below.
Ameren Missouri's current plan for compliance with existing environmental regulations for air emissions includes burning
ultra-low-sulfur coal and installing new or optimizing existing pollution control equipment. Ameren Missouri has two scrubbers at its Sioux energy center, which are used to reduce SO 2 emissions and other pollutants. Ameren Missouri's compliance
plan assumes the installation of additional controls, including
mercury control technology at multiple energy centers within its coal-fired fleet through 2019. However, Ameren Missouri
continues to evaluate its operations and options to determine how to comply with the CSAPR, the MATS, and other recently finalized or proposed EPA regulations. Ameren Missouri may be
required to install additional pollution controls within the next six to 10 years. As the Clean Power Plan is still subject to revision by the EPA and implementation by the states, Ameren Missouri has
not finalized a compliance plan for the proposed rule.
The following sections describe the more significant new or proposed environmental laws and rules and environmental enforcement and remediation matters that affect or could affect
our operations.Clean Air Act Both federal and state laws require significant reductions in SO2 and NOx through either emission source reductions or the use and retirement of emission allowances. The CSAPR became effective on January 1, 2015, for SO 2 and annual NO x reductions, and on May 1, 2015, for ozone season NO x reductions. There will be further emission reduction requirements in 2017 and potentially more in subsequent years. Ameren Missouri expects to have sufficiently reduced emissions and have sufficient allowances to avoid making external purchases to comply with CSAPR for 2015. To achieve compliance with CSAPR, Ameren
Missouri operates two scrubbers at its Sioux energy center and burns ultra-low sulfur coal. Ameren Missouri does not expect to
make additional capital investments to comply with the current CSAPR requirements. However, Ameren Missouri expects to
incur additional operations and maintenance costs to lower its
emissions at one or more of its energy centers for compliance with the CSAPR in future years. These higher operations and
maintenance costs are expected to be collected from customers through the FAC or higher base rates.In December 2011, the EPA issued the MATS under the Clean Air Act, which requires reductions in emissions of mercury
and other hazardous air pollutants, such as acid gases, trace metals, and hydrogen chloride. The United States Supreme Court is considering challenges to the MATS, with a decision expected in June 2015. The MATS do not require a specific control technology to achieve the emission reductions. The MATS apply to each unit at a coal-fired power plant. However, in certain
cases, compliance can be achieved by averaging emissions from
similar units at the same power plant. Compliance was required by April 2015 or, with a case-by-case extension, by April 2016.
Ameren Missouri's Labadie and Meramec energy centers were granted extensions and expect to comply with the MATS by April 2016. Ameren Missouri expects to make additional capital
investments at its Labadie and Meramec energy centers to comply with the MATS. These capital expenditure investments are included in Ameren's and Ameren Missouri's estimate above.
In addition, Ameren Missouri is incurring additional operations
and maintenance costs to lower its emissions at its energy centers in compliance with the MATS. These higher operations
and maintenance costs are expected to be collected from customers through the FAC or higher base rates.In December 2014, the EPA published its proposal to strengthen the 2008 national ambient air quality standard for ozone. A final standard is expected in October 2015, after which
states that do not meet the standard must develop and implement plans to achieve compliance. Ameren Missouri is
currently evaluating the proposed standard and the possible effects on its operations.
Greenhouse Gas Regulation Greenhouse gas emissions from stationary sources, such as power plants, are subject to regulation under the Clean Air Act. As a result, Ameren Missouri is required to consider the
emissions of greenhouse gases in any air permit application.In January 2014, the EPA published proposed regulations that would set revised CO 2 emissions standards for new power plants. The proposed standards would establish separate
emissions limits for new natural-gas-fired plants and new coal-fired plants. In June 2014, the EPA proposed the Clean Power
Plan, which sets forth CO 2 emissions standards that would be applicable to existing power plants. The proposed Clean Power
Plan would require each state to develop plans to achieve CO 2 emission standards that the EPA calculated for each state. The 36EPA believes that the Clean Power Plan would achieve a 30%
reduction in the nation's existing power plant CO 2 emissions from 2005 levels by 2030. The proposed rule also has interim goals of
aggressively reducing CO 2 emissions by 2020. The EPA expects the proposed rule will be finalized in 2015. If the proposed rule is
finalized, states would have one to three years to develop
compliance plans. States would be allowed to develop
independent plans or to join with other states to develop joint plans. Ameren Missouri is evaluating the proposed Clean Power
Plan and the potential impact to its operations, including those related to electric system reliability. Significant uncertainty exists
regarding the standard for existing power plants, as the finalized rule could be different from the proposed rule and will be subject
to legal challenges, either of which could result in the amount and
timing of CO 2 emission standards being revised.
If the proposed Clean Power Plan were to be implemented in its current form, Ameren Missouri may need to incur new or
accelerated capital expenditures and increased fuel costs in order to achieve compliance. As proposed, the Clean Power Plan
would require states, including Missouri and Illinois, to submit
compliance plans as early as 2016. Compliance plans might require Ameren Missouri to construct natural gas-fired combined
cycle generation and renewable generation, at a currently estimated cost of approximately $2 billion by 2020, that Ameren
Missouri believes would otherwise not be necessary to meet the energy needs of its customers. Additionally, Missouri's
implementation of the proposed rules, if adopted, could result in the closure or alteration of the operation of some of Ameren Missouri's coal and natural gas-fired energy centers, which could
result in increased operating costs or impairment of assets.
Ameren Missouri expects substantially all of these increased
costs, which could begin in 2017, to be recoverable, subject to MoPSC prudence review, through substantially higher electric
rates charged to its customers.
Future federal and state legislation or regulations that mandate limits on the emission of greenhouse gases may result
in significant increases in capital expenditures and operating
costs, which could lead to increased liquidity needs and higher financing costs. These compliance costs could be prohibitive at some of Ameren Missouri's energy centers, which could result in
the impairment of long-lived assets if costs are not recovered
through rates. Mandatory limits on the emission of greenhouse gases could increase costs for Ameren Missouri's customers or have a material adverse effect on Ameren's and Ameren
Missouri's results of operations, financial position, and liquidity if
regulators delay or deny recovery in rates of these compliance costs. The cost of Ameren Illinois' purchased power and gas purchased for resale could increase; however, Ameren Illinois
expects these costs would be recovered from customers with no material adverse effect on its results of operations, financial position, or liquidity. Ameren's and Ameren Missouri's earnings
might benefit from increased investment to comply with
greenhouse gas limitations to the extent that the investments are
reflected and recovered timely in rates charged to customers.NSR and Clean Air Litigation In January 2011, the Department of Justice, on behalf of the EPA, filed a complaint against Ameren Missouri in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri. The EPA's complaint, as amended in October 2013, alleges that in
performing projects at its Rush Island coal-fired energy center in 2007 and 2010, Ameren Missouri violated provisions of the Clean Air Act and Missouri law. In January 2012, the district court granted, in part, Ameren Missouri's motion to dismiss various aspects of the EPA's penalty claims. The EPA's claims for unspecified injunctive relief remain. Ameren Missouri believes its defenses are meritorious and is defending itself vigorously.
However, there can be no assurances that it will be successful in its efforts. The ultimate resolution of this matter could have a material adverse effect on the future results of operations, financial position, and liquidity of Ameren and Ameren Missouri. A
resolution could result in increased capital expenditures for the
installation of pollution control equipment, increased operations and maintenance expenses, and penalties. We are unable to
predict the ultimate resolution of these matters or the costs that
might be incurred. Clean Water ActIn August 2014, the EPA published the final rule applicable to cooling water intake structures at existing power plants.The rule requires a case-by-case evaluation and plan for reducing the mortality of aquatic organisms impinged on the facility's intake
screens or entrained through the plant's cooling water system.
Implementation of this rule will be administered through each power plant's water discharge permitting process. All coal-fired and nuclear energy centers at Ameren Missouri are subject to this rule. The rule could have an adverse effect on Ameren's and Ameren Missouri's results of operations, financial position, and
liquidity if its implementation requires the installation of cooling
towers or extensive modifications to the cooling water systems at
our energy centers and if those investments are not recovered
timely in electric rates charged to its customers.In April 2013, the EPA announced its proposal to revise the effluent limitation guidelines applicable to steam electric generating units under the Clean Water Act. Effluent limitation
guidelines are national standards for wastewater discharges to surface water that are based on the effectiveness of available control technology. The EPA's proposed rule raised several compliance options that would prohibit effluent discharges of
certain, but not all, waste streams and impose more stringent
limitations on certain components in wastewater discharges from power plants. If the rule is enacted as proposed, Ameren Missouri
would be subject to the revised limitations beginning as early as July 1, 2017, but no later than July 1, 2022. The EPA is expected
to issue final guidelines in September 2015.
Ash ManagementIn December 2014, the EPA issued regulations regarding the management and disposal of CCR, which will affect future CCR 37disposal and handling costs at Ameren Missouri's energy centers. The final CCR regulations were published in April 2015. The
regulations allow for the management of CCR as a solid waste,
as well as for its continued beneficial uses, such as recycling, which could reduce the amount to be disposed. The regulations also established criteria regarding the structural integrity, location, and operation of CCR impoundments and landfills. They require
groundwater monitoring and closure of impoundments if the groundwater standards are not achieved. Ameren Missouri is
currently evaluating the regulations to determine their impact on
current management of CCR and the costs associated with compliance. Ameren Missouri also expects to record an increase to its ARO associated with CCR storage facilities as a result of
the new regulations. See Note 1 - Summary of Significant
Accounting Policies in this report for additional information.
Ameren Missouri's capital expenditure plan includes the cost of
constructing landfills as part of its environmental compliance plan. Ameren Missouri expects certain of its ash ponds could be
closed within the next five years.
The new regulations do not apply to inactive ash ponds at plants no longer in operation, such as Ameren's Meredosia and
Hutsonville energy centers.
RemediationWe are involved in a number of remediation actions to clean up sites affected by hazardous substances, as required by federal and state law. Such laws require that responsible parties
fund remediation actions regardless of their degree of fault, the
legality of original disposal, or the ownership of a disposal site.
Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois have each been identified
by federal or state governments as a potentially responsible party
at several contaminated sites. As of March31, 2015, Ameren Illinois owned or was otherwise responsible for 44 former MGP sites in Illinois, which
are in various stages of investigation, evaluation, remediation, and closure. Ameren Illinois estimates it could substantially conclude remediation efforts at most of these sites by 2018. The ICC allows Ameren Illinois to recover remediation and litigation costs associated with its former MGP sites from its electric and
natural gas utility customers through environmental adjustment rate riders. To be recoverable, such costs must be prudently incurred. Costs are subject to annual review by the ICC. As of March31, 2015, Ameren Illinois estimated the obligation related to these former MGP sites at $245 million to $314 million.
Ameren and Ameren Illinois recorded a liability of $245 million to
represent their estimated minimum obligation for these sites, as
no other amount within the range was a better estimate. The scope and extent to which these former MGP sites are remediated may increase as remediation efforts continue.
Considerable uncertainty remains in these estimates, as many
factors can influence the ultimate actual costs, including site
specific unanticipated underground structures, the degree to
which groundwater is encountered, regulatory changes, local ordinances, and site accessibility. The actual costs may vary
substantially from these estimates.Ameren Illinois formerly used an off-site landfill, which Ameren Illinois did not own, in connection with the operation of a previously-owned energy center. Ameren Illinois could be
required to perform certain maintenance activities at that landfill, which is now closed. As of March31, 2015, Ameren Illinois estimated the obligation related to the landfill at $0.5 million to $6 million. Ameren Illinois recorded a liability of $0.5 million to
represent its estimated minimum obligation for this site, as no other amount within the range was a better estimate. Ameren
Illinois is also responsible for the cleanup of some underground storage tanks and a water treatment plant in Illinois. As of March31, 2015, Ameren Illinois recorded a liability of $0.7 million
to represent its best estimate of the obligation for these sites.In 2008, the EPA issued an administrative order to Ameren Missouri pertaining to a former coal tar distillery operated by
Koppers Company or its predecessor and successor companies.
While Ameren Missouri is the current owner of the site, which is
located in St. Louis, Missouri, it did not conduct any of the
manufacturing operations involving coal tar or its byproducts.
Ameren Missouri, along with two other potentially responsible
parties, have completed site investigation activities and have submitted their findings to the EPA. As of March31, 2015, Ameren Missouri estimated its obligation at $2 million to $5 million. Ameren Missouri recorded a liability of $2 million to
represent its estimated minimum obligation, as no other amount
within the range was a better estimate.
Ameren Missouri also participated in the investigation of various sites located in Sauget, Illinois. In 2000, the EPA notified
Ameren Missouri and numerous other companies, including
Solutia, Inc., that former landfills and lagoons at those sites may contain soil and groundwater contamination. These sites are known as Sauget Area 2. From about 1926 until 1976, Ameren Missouri operated an energy center adjacent to Sauget Area 2.
Ameren Missouri currently owns a parcel of property at Sauget
Area 2 that was once used as a landfill. In December 2013, the EPA issued its record of decision for Sauget Area 2 approving the investigation and the remediation
alternatives recommended by the potentially responsible parties.
Further negotiation among the potentially responsible parties will determine how to fund the implementation of the EPA-approved cleanup remedies. As of March31, 2015, Ameren Missouri estimated its obligation related to Sauget Area 2 at $1 million to
$2.5 million. Ameren Missouri recorded a liability of $1 million to
represent its estimated minimum obligation for this site, as no
other amount within the range was a better estimate.In December 2012, Ameren Missouri signed an administrative order with the EPA and agreed to investigate soil and groundwater conditions at an Ameren Missouri-owned substation in St. Charles, Missouri. As of March31, 2015,
Ameren Missouri estimated the obligation related to the cleanup at $2.3 million to $4.5 million. Ameren Missouri recorded a liability of $2.3 million to represent its estimated minimum obligation for
this site, as no other amount within the range was a better
estimate.
38Our operations or those of our predecessor companies involve the use of, disposal of, and in appropriate circumstances, the cleanup of substances regulated under environmental laws.
We are unable to determine whether such practices will result in future environmental commitments or will affect our results of operations, financial position, or liquidity.
Pumped-storage Hydroelectric Facility Breach In December 2005, there was a breach of the upper reservoir at Ameren Missouri's Taum Sauk pumped-storage hydroelectric energy center. The breach resulted in significant flooding in the local area, which damaged a state park. Ameren Missouri had liability insurance coverage for the Taum Sauk
incident, subject to certain limits and deductibles. In 2010, Ameren Missouri sued an insurance company that was providing Ameren Missouri with liability coverage on the date of the Taum Sauk incident. In the litigation, Ameren Missouri
claims that the insurance company breached its duty to indemnify
Ameren Missouri for losses resulting from the incident. In
September 2014, the United States District Court for the Eastern
District of Missouri ordered the case to be transferred to the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York for trial. The transfer order has been stayed pending resolution of Ameren Missouri's October 2014 appeal of that order to the United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit. As of March31, 2015, Ameren Missouri had an insurance receivable balance of $41 million. The insurance claim was $53 million as of March 31, 2015. Ameren Missouri expects to collect
this receivable from the remaining insurance company in the pending litigation described above. This receivable is included in "Other assets" on Ameren's and Ameren Missouri's balance sheets as of March31, 2015. Ameren's and Ameren Missouri's
results of operations, financial position, and liquidity could be adversely affected if Ameren Missouri's remaining insurance
receivable balance is not collected.
Asbestos-related LitigationAmeren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois have been named, along with numerous other parties, in a number of lawsuits filed by plaintiffs claiming varying degrees of injury from
asbestos exposure at our present or former energy centers. Most have been filed in the Circuit Court of Madison County, Illinois.
The total number of defendants named in each case varies, with 77 as the average number of parties as of March31, 2015. Each
lawsuit seeks unspecified damages that, if awarded at trial,
typically would be shared among the various defendants.
The following table presents the pending asbestos-related lawsuits filed against the Ameren Companies as of March31,
2015:AmerenAmerenMissouriAmerenIllinoisTotal(a)1425365(a) Total does not equal the sum of the subsidiary unit lawsuits because some of the lawsuits name multiple Ameren entities as defendants.As of March31, 2015, Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois had liabilities of $12 million, $5 million, and $7 million, respectively, recorded to represent their best estimate of
their obligations related to asbestos claims.Ameren Illinois has a tariff rider to recover the costs of IP asbestos-related litigation claims, subject to the following terms:
90% of cash expenditures in excess of the amount included in
base electric rates are to be recovered from a trust fund that was established when Ameren acquired IP. At March31, 2015, the trust fund balance was $22 million, including accumulated
interest. If cash expenditures are less than the amount in base rates, Ameren Illinois will contribute 90% of the difference to the trust fund. Once the trust fund is depleted, 90% of allowed cash
expenditures in excess of base rates will be recovered through charges assessed to customers under the tariff rider. The rider will permit recovery from customers within IP's historical service territory.NOTE 10 - CALLAWAY ENERGY CENTERUnder the NWPA, the DOE is responsible for disposing of spent nuclear fuel from the Callaway energy center and other commercial nuclear energy centers. Under the NWPA, Ameren
and other utilities that own and operate those energy centers are responsible for paying the disposal costs. The NWPA established
the fee that these utilities pay the federal government for disposing of the spent nuclear fuel at one mill, or one-tenth of one
cent, for each kilowatthour generated and sold by those plants.
The NWPA also requires the DOE annually to review the nuclear
waste fee against the cost of the nuclear waste disposal program
and to propose to the United States Congress any fee adjustment necessary to offset the costs of the program. As required by the NWPA, Ameren Missouri and other utilities have entered into standard contracts with the federal government. The government,
represented by the DOE, is responsible for implementing these provisions of the NWPA. Consistent with the NWPA and its standard contract, Ameren Missouri had historically collected one
mill from its electric customers for each kilowatthour of electricity that it generated and sold from its Callaway energy center.
Because the federal government is not meeting its disposal
obligation, the collection of this fee is currently suspended.Although both the NWPA and the standard contract stated that the federal government would begin to dispose of spent
nuclear fuel by 1998, the federal government is not meeting its disposal obligation. Ameren Missouri has sufficient installed
capacity at the Callaway energy center to store its spent nuclear
fuel generated through 2020, and it has the capability to add additional dry cask storage capacity. The DOE's delay in carrying
out its obligation to dispose of spent nuclear fuel from the Callaway energy center is not expected to adversely affect the continued operations of the energy center.
In January 2013, the DOE issued its plan for the management and disposal of spent nuclear fuel. The DOE's plan
calls for a pilot interim storage facility to begin operation with an
initial focus on accepting spent nuclear fuel from shutdown
reactor sites by 2021. By 2025, a larger interim storage facility 39would be available. The plan also proposes to begin operation of a permanent storage facility by 2048.
As a result of the DOE's failure to begin to dispose of spent nuclear fuel from commercial nuclear energy centers and fulfill its contractual obligations, Ameren Missouri and other nuclear
energy center owners have also sued the DOE to recover costs incurred for ongoing storage of their spent fuel. Ameren Missouri
filed a breach of contract lawsuit to recover coststhat it incurred through 2009. The lawsuit sought reimbursement for the cost of reracking the Callaway energy center's spent fuel pool, for certain NRC fees, and for Missouri ad valorem taxes that Ameren
Missouri would not have incurred had the DOE performed its contractual obligations. The parties entered into a settlement
agreement that provides for annual recovery of additional spent
fuel storage and related costs incurred from 2010 through 2016,
with the ability to extend the recovery period as mutually agreed
upon by the parties. Included in these reimbursements are costs related to a dry spent fuel storage facility that Ameren Missouri is constructing at its Callaway energy center. Ameren Missouri
intends to begin transferring spent fuel assemblies to this facility in 2015. Ameren Missouri will continue to apply for
reimbursement from the DOE for the cost to construct and
operate the dry spent fuel storage facility along with related
allowable costs.In March 2015, the NRC approved Ameren Missouri's application to extend its Callaway energy center's operating
license from 2024 to 2044.
Electric utility rates charged to customers provide for the recovery of the Callaway energy center's decommissioning costs,
which include decontamination, dismantling, and site restoration costs, over the expected life of the nuclear energy center.
Amounts collected from customers are deposited into the
external nuclear decommissioning trust fund to provide for the Callaway energy center's decommissioning. It is assumed that
the Callaway energy center site will be decommissioned through
the immediate dismantlement method and removed from service.
Ameren and Ameren Missouri have recorded an ARO for the
Callaway energy center decommissioning costs at fair value,
which represents the present value of estimated future cash outflows. Annual decommissioning costs of $7 million are included in the costs used to establish electric rates for Ameren
Missouri's customers. Every three years, the MoPSC requires
Ameren Missouri to file an updated cost study and funding analysis for decommissioning its Callaway energy center.
Following the NRC's decision to approve Ameren Missouri's
operating license extension application, an updated cost study
and a revised funding analysis were filed with the MoPSC on April 1, 2015. Ameren Missouri's April 2015 filing supported no
change to the decommissioning cost included in electric service rates. There is no time requirement by which the MoPSC must
issue an order regarding the decommissioning cost included in Ameren Missouri's electric service rates.If the assumed return on
trust assets is not earned, we believe that it is probable that any such earnings deficiency will be recovered in rates. The fair value of the trust fund for Ameren Missouri's Callaway energy center is reported as "Nuclear decommissioning trust fund" in Ameren's and Ameren Missouri's balance sheets. This amount is legally
restricted and may be used only to fund the costs of nuclear
decommissioning. Changes in the fair value of the trust fund are
recorded as an increase or decrease to the nuclear decommissioning trust fund, with an offsetting adjustment to the related regulatory liability.NOTE 11 - RETIREMENT BENEFITSAmeren's pension plans are funded in compliance with income tax regulations and to meet federal funding or regulatory requirements. As a result, Ameren expects to fund its pension plans at a level equal to the greater of the pension expense or the legally required minimum contribution. Considering Ameren's assumptions at March31, 2015, the plan's estimated investment performance through March31, 2015, and Ameren's pension funding policy, Ameren expects to make annual contributions of $25 million to $115 million through 2019, with aggregate estimated contributions of $290 million. These amounts are estimates which may change with actual investment performance, changes in interest rates, any pertinent changes in government regulations, and any voluntary contributions. Separately, our policy for postretirement benefits is primarily to fund the voluntary employees' beneficiary association trusts to match the annual postretirement
expense.
40The following table presents the components of the net periodic benefit cost (benefit) for Ameren's pension and postretirement benefit plans for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014:
Pension BenefitsPostretirement Benefits Three Months Three Months 2015201420152014 Service cost
$24$21$5$5Interest cost 44491213Expected return on plan assets(62)(57)(17)(16)Amortization of:
Prior service benefit
--(1)(1)Actuarial loss (gain) 18121(1)Net periodic benefit cost
$24$25$-$-Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois are responsible for their respective shares of Ameren's pension and postretirement costs. The following table presents the pension costs and the postretirement benefit costs incurred for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014:Pension BenefitsPostretirement Benefits Three Months Three Months 2015201420152014 Ameren Missouri
$15$17$1$1Ameren Illinois 98(1)(1)Ameren(a)$24$25$-$-(a) Includes amounts for Ameren registrants and nonregistrant subsidiaries.NOTE 12 - DIVESTITURE TRANSACTIONS AND DISCONTINUED OPERATIONSOn December 2, 2013, Ameren completed the divestiture of New AER to IPH in accordance with the transaction agreement between Ameren and IPH dated March 14, 2013, as amended by a letter agreement dated December 2, 2013. The transaction
agreement with IPH, as amended, provides that if the Elgin, Gibson City, and Grand Tower gas-fired energy centers are subsequently sold by Medina Valley and if Medina Valley receives additional proceeds from such sale, Medina Valley will pay Genco
any proceeds from such sale, net of taxes and other expenses, in excess of the $137.5 million previously paid to Genco.On January 31, 2014, Medina Valley completed the sale of the Elgin, Gibson City, and Grand Tower gas-fired energy centers to Rockland Capital for a total purchase price of $168 million, before consideration of a net working capital adjustment. The agreement with Rockland Capital required $17 million of the
purchase price to be held in escrow until January 31, 2016, to fund certain indemnity obligations, if any, of Medina Valley. The
Rockland Capital escrow receivable balance and the corresponding payable due to Genco is reflected on Ameren's
March 31, 2015 consolidated balance sheet in "Other current assets" and in "Other current liabilities," respectively. Medina Valley expects to pay Genco any remaining portion of the escrow balance on January 31, 2016. Ameren did not record a gain from its sale of the Elgin, Gibson City, and Grand Tower gas-fired
energy centers.
Discontinued Operations PresentationSee Note 16 - Divestiture Transactions and Discontinued Operations under Part II, Item 8, of the Form 10-K for additional information related to disposal groups. The final tax basis of the AER disposal group and the related tax benefit resulting from the transaction with IPH
are dependent upon the resolution of tax matters under audit. It is reasonably possible that in the next 12 months these tax audits will be completed. As a result, tax expense and benefits ultimately realized from the divestitures, including the final resolution of Ameren's uncertain tax positions, may differ materially from those recorded as of and for the three months ended March31, 2015. The assets and liabilities of Ameren's discontinued operations at March 31, 2015, and December 31, 2014, consist primarily of AROs and related deferred income tax
assets associated with the abandoned Meredosia and Hutsonville energy centers.
Pursuant to the IPH transaction agreement, as amended, Ameren is obligated to pay up to $25 million for certain contingent liabilities as of March31, 2015, which were included in "Other current liabilities" on Ameren's March31, 2015 consolidated
balance sheet.
The note receivable from Marketing Company related to the cash collateral support provided to New AER was $12 million at March 31, 2015, and December 31, 2014, and was reflected on
Ameren's consolidated balance sheet in "Miscellaneous accounts and notes receivable." This receivable is due to Ameren, with
interest, on December 2, 2015, or sooner as cash collateral
requirements are reduced. In addition, as of March 31, 2015, if Ameren's credit ratings had been below investment grade,
Ameren could have been required to post additional cash collateral in support of New AER in the amount of $20 million, 41which includes $10 million currently covered by Ameren guarantees. This cash collateral support is part of Ameren's obligation to provide certain limited credit support to New AER until December 2, 2015, as discussed below.
Ameren Guarantees and Letters of Credit The IPH transaction agreement, as amended, requires Ameren to maintain its financial obligations with respect to all credit support provided to New AER as of the December 2, 2013 closing date of the divestiture. Ameren must also provide such
additional credit support as required by contracts entered into
prior to the closing date, in each case until December 2, 2015.
IPH shall indemnify Ameren for any payments Ameren makes
pursuant to these credit support obligations if the counterparty does not return the posted collateral to Ameren. IPH's indemnification obligation is secured by certain AERG and Genco
assets. In addition, Dynegy has provided a limited guarantee of
$25 million to Ameren pursuant to which Dynegy will, among
other things, guarantee IPH's indemnification obligations until
December 2, 2015.In addition to the $25 million of contingent liabilities recorded on Ameren's March31, 2015 consolidated balance sheet, Ameren had a total of $105 million in guarantees outstanding for New AER that were not recorded on Ameren's March31, 2015
consolidated balance sheet, which included:* $103 million related to guarantees supporting Marketing Company for physically and financially settled power
transactions with its counterparties that were in place at the
December 2, 2013 closing of the divestiture, as well as for
Marketing Company's clearing broker and other service
agreements. If Marketing Company did not fulfill its
obligations to these counterparties who had active open positions as of March31, 2015, Ameren would have been required under its guarantees to provide $10 million to the
counterparties. * $2 million related to requirements for lease agreements and potential environmental obligations. If New AER had not fulfilled its lease obligation as of March 31, 2015, Ameren would have been required to provide $1 million to the lease counterparty.Additionally, at March31, 2015, Ameren had issued letters of credit totaling $9 million as credit support on behalf of New AER.Ameren has not recorded a liability for these contingent obligations because it does not believe a payment with respect to
any of these guarantees or letters of credit was probable as of March31, 2015.NOTE 13 - SEGMENT INFORMATIONAmeren has two reportable segments: Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois. Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois each have one reportable segment. The Ameren Missouri segment for both Ameren and Ameren Missouri includes all of the operations of Ameren Missouri's business as described in Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies. The Ameren Illinois segment for both Ameren and Ameren Illinois includes all of the operations of Ameren Illinois' business as described in Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies. The category called Other primarily includes Ameren parent company activities, Ameren Services, and ATXI. The following table presents information about the reported revenues and specified items reflected in Ameren's net income attributable to Ameren Corporation from continuing operations for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, and total assets of continuing operations as of March31, 2015, and December31, 2014.
Three Months AmerenMissouriAmerenIllinoisOtherIntersegmentEliminationsAmeren 2015External revenues$793$744$
19$-$1,556Intersegment revenues 711(9)-Net income attributable to Ameren Corporation from continuing operations 415314-1082014External revenues$811$774$9$-$1,594Intersegment revenues 6-1(7)-Net income (loss) attributable to Ameren Corporation from continuing operations 4753(3)-97As of March 31, 2015:
Total assets$13,555$8,456$1,082$(224)$
22,869(a)As of December 31, 2014:
Total assets$13,541$8,381$942$(203)$
22,661(a)(a) Excludes total assets from discontinued operations of $15 million as of March31, 2015, and December 31, 2014.
42ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.
The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the financial statements contained in this Form 10-Q as well as Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition
and Results of Operations and Risk Factors contained in the Form 10-K.We intend for this discussion to provide the reader
with information that will assist in understanding our financial
statements, the changes in certain key items in those financial
statements, and the primary factors that accounted for those changes, as well as how certain accounting principles affect our financial statements. The discussion also provides information
about the financial results of our business segments to provide a
better understanding of how those segments and their results affect the financial condition and results of operations of Ameren as a whole. Also see the Glossary of Terms and Abbreviations at
the front of this report and in the Form 10-K.
Ameren, headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, is a public utility holding company under PUHCA 2005, administered by the FERC. Ameren's primary assets are its equity interests in its subsidiaries, including Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois.
Ameren's subsidiaries are separate, independent legal entities
with separate businesses, assets, and liabilities. Dividends on Ameren's common stock and the payment of expenses by
Ameren depend on distributions made to it by its subsidiaries.
Ameren's principal subsidiaries are listed below.
- Union Electric Company, doing business as Ameren
Missouri, operates a rate-regulated electric generation,
transmission and distribution business and a rate-regulated
natural gas transmission and distribution business in
operates rate-regulated electric and natural gas transmission
and distribution businesses in Illinois.
Ameren has various other subsidiaries that conduct activities such as the provision of shared services. Ameren also has a subsidiary, ATXI, that operates a FERC rate-regulated electric transmission business. ATXI is developing MISO-
approved electric transmission projects, including the Illinois Rivers, Spoon River, and Mark Twain projects. Ameren is also pursuing reliability projects within Ameren Missouri's and Ameren Illinois' service territories as well as competitive electric
transmission investment opportunities outside of these territories,
including investments outside of MISO.
The operating results, assets, and liabilities of the Elgin, Gibson City, Grand Tower, Meredosia, and Hutsonville energy
centers have been presented separately as discontinued
operations for all periods presented in this report. Unless otherwise stated, the following sections of Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations exclude discontinued operations for all periods presented. See Note 12 - Divestiture Transactions and
Discontinued Operations under Part I, Item 1, of this report for
additional information regarding the discontinued operations presentation. See Note 16 - Divestiture Transactions and Discontinued Operations under Part II, Item 8, of the Form 10-K
for additional information regarding the divestiture transactions.The financial statements of Ameren are prepared on a consolidated basis, and therefore include the accounts of its majority-owned subsidiaries. All intercompany transactions have been eliminated. Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois have no
subsidiaries, and therefore their financial statements are not prepared on a consolidated basis. All tabular dollar amounts are
in millions, unless otherwise indicated.
In addition to presenting results of operations and earnings amounts in total, we present certain information in cents per share. These amounts reflect factors that directly affect Ameren's earnings. We believe this per share information helps readers to understand the impact of these factors on Ameren's earnings per
share.OVERVIEWNet income attributable to Ameren Corporation from continuing operations was $108 million in the first quarter of 2015, compared with $97 million in the first quarter of 2014. Net income was favorably affected by higher rates for Ameren Illinois and ATXI electric transmission service and Ameren Illinois electric
delivery service, each under formula ratemaking, driven by
additional rate base investment. Net income was also favorably affected by a decrease in other operations and maintenance
expenses at those businesses not operating under formula rates as well as decreased interest expenses at Ameren (parent).
Additionally, earnings increased as a result of a January 2015 ICC order regarding Ameren Illinois' cumulative power usage costs and its purchased power rider mechanism. These earnings increases were partially offset by decreased electric and natural
gas demand primarily due to milder winter temperatures and energy efficiency. In addition, net income was unfavorably affected by the recognition of a liability for a potential refund to
customers due to an expected reduction in the FERC-allowed return on equity related to Ameren Illinois and ATXI transmission
service and by a lower recognized return on equity related to
Ameren Illinois electric delivery service as a result of decreased yields on 30-year United States Treasury bonds. Ameren's earnings were also negatively affected by increased depreciation
and amortization expenses for those businesses not operating under formula rates and increased financing costs at Ameren
Ameren continues to execute its strategy of investing in and operating its utilities in a manner consistent with existing
regulatory frameworks, enhancing those frameworks and
advocating for responsible energy policies, as well as creating
and capitalizing on opportunities for investment for the benefit of its customers and shareholders. Ameren continues to
strategically allocate significant amounts of capital to those
businesses where investment is supported by constructive
regulatory frameworks, investing approximately $270 million of its
$417 million in capital expenditures during the first quarter of
2015 in FERC-regulated electric transmission projects and 43Ameren Illinois electric and natural gas delivery service infrastructure. Work on ATXI's Illinois Rivers transmission project is advancing as planned. These additional rate base investments
continue to drive earnings growth.
Ameren remains actively engaged in advocating for responsible energy policies, including those that would ensure the protection of the electric system's reliability. In response to the proposed Clean Power Plan, Ameren Missouri has proposed
a plan, including eliminating interim targets and allowing states to determine the best path to address the EPA's final targets. The
plan would achieve the final level of CO 2 emissions reductions proposed in the EPA's Clean Power Plan but would do so in a less costly manner. The plan includes continued reliance on nuclear generation from Ameren Missouri's Callaway energy center, which received approval from the NRC in March 2015 to
operate through 2044.
In addition to prudently investing in its utilities and advocating for responsible energy policies, Ameren remains focused on achieving operational improvements and efficiencies
across all of its businesses.In April 2015, the MoPSC issued an order approving an increase in Ameren Missouri's annual revenues for electric service of$122 million, incorporating a 9.53%allowed return on common equity and a $7.0 billion rate base to reflect investments through December 31, 2014. The order approved Ameren Missouri's request for continued use of the FAC; however, it changed the FAC to exclude substantially all transmission
charges and revenues. In addition, the order did not approve the
continued use of the regulatory tracking mechanisms for storm
costs and vegetation management and infrastructure inspection
costs. Rate changes consistent with the order will become effective on May 30, 2015. Ameren Missouri will request a rehearing on several aspects of the MoPSC's order, including the
allowed return on common equity and the elimination of recovery
of changes in transmission charges and revenues through the FAC. Ameren Missouri will seek to align its spending, both
operating and capital, with the regulatory framework established by the MoPSC's order. Ameren Missouri continues to pursue a
modernized regulatory framework that supports investment to
upgrade aging electric infrastructure and reduces regulatory lag.In April 2015, the IEIMA's formula rate framework applicable to Ameren Illinois' electric delivery service business was
extended until the end of 2019, with further extensions possible through 2022, allowing for continued modernization of Ameren Illinois' electric distribution system. In April 2015, Ameren Illinois
filed with the ICC its annual electric delivery service formula rate update to establish 2016 rates. Pending ICC approval, Ameren Illinois' update filing will result in a $110 million increase in Ameren Illinois' electric delivery service rates beginning in January 2016. In January 2015, Ameren Illinois filed a request
with the ICC seeking approval to increase its annual revenues for natural gas delivery service by $53 million. In an attempt to reduce regulatory lag, Ameren Illinois used a 2016 future test
year in this proceeding. Included in the request was a proposal to
implement a decoupling rider mechanism for residential and small nonresidential customers. The decoupling rider would ensure that changes in natural gas sales volumes do not affect
Ameren Illinois' annual natural gas revenues for these rate classes. A decision by the ICC in this proceeding is required by December 2015, with new rates expected to be effective in
January 2016.RESULTS OF OPERATIONSOur results of operations and financial position are affected by many factors. Weather, economic conditions, and the actions of key customers can significantly affect the demand for our services. Our results are also affected by seasonal fluctuations in winter heating and summer cooling demands. We are also affected by nuclear refueling and other energy center maintenance outages at Ameren Missouri. Almost all of Ameren's revenues are subject to state or federal regulation. This
regulation has a material impact on the prices we charge for our
services. Our results of operations, financial position, and liquidity are affected by our ability to align our overall spending, both
operating and capital, with regulatory frameworks established by our regulators. Ameren Missouri principally uses coal, nuclear
fuel, and natural gas for fuel in its electric operations and purchases natural gas for its customers. Ameren Illinois purchases power and natural gas for its customers. The prices
for these commodities can fluctuate significantly because of the global economic and political environment, weather, supply and demand, and many other factors. We have natural gas cost
recovery mechanisms for our Illinois and Missouri natural gas
delivery service businesses, a purchased power cost recovery mechanism for Ameren Illinois' electric delivery service business, and a FAC for Ameren Missouri's electric utility business. Ameren
Illinois' electric delivery service utility business, pursuant to the
IEIMA, conducts an annual reconciliation of the revenue
requirement necessary to reflect the actual costs incurred in a
given year with the revenue requirement included in customer rates for that year, with recoveries from or refunds to customers made in a subsequent year. Included in Ameren Illinois' revenue requirement reconciliation is a formula for the return on equity,
which is equal to the average of the monthly yields of 30-year United States Treasury bonds plus 580 basis points. Therefore,
Ameren Illinois' annual return on equity is directly correlated to yields on United States Treasury bonds. Ameren Illinois and ATXI
use a company-specific, forward-looking rate formula framework in setting their transmission rates. These forward-looking rates are updated each January with forecasted information. A reconciliation during the year, which adjusts for the actual
revenue requirement and actual sales volumes, is used to adjust billing rates in a subsequent year. Fluctuations in interest rates and conditions in the capital and credit markets also affect our
cost of borrowing and our pension and postretirement benefits costs. We employ various risk management strategies to reduce
our exposure to commodity risk and other risks inherent in our business. The reliability of Ameren Missouri's energy centers and
our transmission and distribution systems and the level of
purchased power costs, operations and maintenance costs, and
capital investment are key factors that we seek to manage in
order to optimize our results of operations, financial position, and liquidity.
44Earnings SummaryThe following table presents a summary of Ameren's earnings from continuing operations for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014:
Three Months20152014Net income attributable to Ameren Corporation - continuing operations$108$97Earnings per common share - basic -
continuing operations 0.450.40Net income attributable to Ameren Corporation from continuing operations increased $11 million, or 5 cents per share, in the first quarter of 2015 compared with the same period in 2014. The increase was due to net income from Ameren (parent) and nonregistrant subsidiaries of $14 million in the first quarter of 2015 compared with a $3 million loss in the same period in 2014.
Ameren Missouri's net income decreased by $6 million compared to 2014, while Ameren Illinois' 2015 net income was comparable
to 2014.Compared with 2014, 2015 earnings per share from continuing operations were favorably affected by:* increased Ameren Illinois and ATXI electric transmission service and Ameren Illinois electric service delivery earnings under formula ratemaking due to additional rate base
investment (5 cents per share);* decreased other operations and maintenance expenses for those businesses not operating under formula rates, primarily at Ameren Missouri due, in part, to a reduction in
low-level radioactive nuclear waste disposal costs, and at
nonregistrant subsidiaries (5 cents per share);
- increased Ameren Illinois earnings resulting from a January 2015 ICC order regarding Ameren Illinois' cumulative power
usage cost and its purchased power rider mechanism (4
cents per share); and* decreased interest expense at Ameren (parent) primarily due to higher-cost debt being replaced with lower-cost debt
(3 cents per share).
Compared with 2014, 2015 earnings per share from continuing operations were unfavorably affected by:* decreased electric and natural gas demand from milder winter temperatures in 2015 (estimated at 3 cents per share) as well as decreased Ameren Missouri electric demand, excluding the effects of weather, primarily due to the effects of the MEEIA customer energy efficiency programs
(estimated at 2 cents per share);* decreased Ameren Illinois and ATXI electric transmission service and Ameren Illinois electric delivery service earnings
under formula ratemaking due to a lower recognized return on equity in each jurisdiction. The FERC-allowed return on
equity was reduced by the recognition of a liability for a
potential refund to customers based on the pending
complaint cases and the recognized return on equity related to Ameren Illinois electric delivery service was reduced due to lower 30-year United States Treasury bond yields (2 cents
per share);* increased depreciation and amortization expenses for those businesses not operating under formula rates, primarily resulting from electric capital additions at Ameren Missouri and amortization of natural gas software at Ameren Illinois
(2 cents per share); and
- increased financing costs at Ameren Missouri, primarily due
to increased interest expense and decreased allowance for
equity funds used during construction (2 cents per share).For additional details regarding the Ameren Companies' results of operations, including explanations of Margins, Other Operations and Maintenance Expenses, Depreciation and Amortization, Taxes Other Than Income Taxes, Other Income and Expenses, Interest Charges, Income Taxes and Loss from Discontinued Operations, Net of Taxes, see the major headings below.
45Below is a table of income statement components by segment for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014:
AmerenMissouriAmerenIllinoisOther /IntersegmentEliminationsAmeren Three Months 2015:
Electric margins$497$288$
13$798Natural gas margins 27150-177Other operations and maintenance(211)(202)12(401)Depreciation and amortization(118)(73)(2)(193)Taxes other than income taxes(80)(43)(2)(125)Other income (expense) 82(2)8Interest charges(55)(33)-(88)Income (taxes) benefit(26)(35)(5)(66)Income from continuing operations 425414110Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax
Net income 425414110Preferred dividends(1)(1)-(2)Net income attributable to Ameren Corporation
$41$53$14$108Three Months 2014:
Electric margins$510$272$6$788Natural gas margins 28157(1)184Other operations and maintenance(225)(200)7(418)Depreciation and amortization(116)(63)(2)(181)Taxes other than income taxes(78)(46)(3)(127)Other income (expense) 10(1)-9Interest charges(52)(30)(10)(92)Income (taxes) benefit(29)(35)-(64)Income (loss) from continuing operations 4854(3)99Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax
--(1)(1)Net income (loss) 4854(4)98Noncontrolling interests and preferred dividends(1)(1)-(2)Net income (loss) attributable to Ameren Corporation
$47$53$(4)$96 46MarginsThe following table presents the favorable (unfavorable) variations by segment for electric and natural gas margins in the three months ended March 31, 2015, compared with the same period in 2014. Electric margins are defined as electric revenues less fuel and purchased power costs. Natural gas margins are defined as gas revenues less gas purchased for resale. We consider electric and natural gas margins useful measures to analyze the change in profitability of our electric and natural gas operations between periods. We have included the analysis below as a complement to the financial information we provide in accordance with GAAP. However, these margins may not be a presentation defined under GAAP and may not be comparable to other companies' presentations or more useful than the GAAP information
we provide elsewhere in this report.
AmerenMissouriAmerenIllinoisOther (a)AmerenElectric revenue change:Effect of weather (estimate)
(b)$(9)$(5)$-$(14)Base rates (estimate)-15-15IEIMA revenue requirement reconciliation
-(15)-(15)Sales volume (excluding the estimated effect of weather)
(8)(1)-(9)Recovery of FAC under-recovery (c)5--5Off-system sales and transmission services revenues 8--8MEEIA (energy efficiency) recovery mechanisms (1)--(1)Transmission services revenues
-71017Illinois pass-through power supply costs-18-18Bad debt, energy efficiency programs and environmental remediation cost riders 4Purchased power rider order-15-15Other(2)(1)(3)(6)Total electric revenue change
$(7)$37$7$37Fuel and purchased power change:
Energy costs
$(5)$-$-$(5)Effect of weather (estimate)
(b)43-7Recovery of FAC under-recovery (c)(5)--(5)Transmission services expenses-(6)-(6)Illinois pass-through power supply costs
-(18)-(18)Total fuel and purchased power change
$(6)$(21)$-$(27)Net change in electric margins$(13)$16$7$10Natural gas revenue change:Effect of weather (estimate)
(b)$(6)$(21)$-$(27)Bad debt, energy efficiency programs and environmental remediation cost riders 1Gross receipts tax-(3)-(3)Pass-through purchased gas costs (4)(40)-(44)Sales volume (excluding the estimated effect of weather) and other-(3)1(2)Total natural gas revenue change$(10)$(66)$1$
(75)Gas purchased for resale change:Effect of weather (estimate)
(b)$5$19$-$24Pass-through purchased gas costs 440-44Total gas purchased for resale change$9$59$-$68Net change in natural gas margins
$(1)$(7)$1$(7)(a) Primarily includes amounts for ATXI and intercompany eliminations.(b) Represents the estimated variation resulting primarily from changes in cooling and heating degree-days on electric and natural gas demand compared with the prior-year period; this is based on temperature readings from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration weather stations at local airports in our service territories.(c) Represents the change in the net energy costs recovered under the FAC through customer rates, with corresponding offsets to fuel expense due to amortization of a previously recorded regulatory asset.
Ameren CorporationAmeren's electric margins increased $10 million, or 1%, for the three months ended March 31, 2015, compared with the same period in 2014. Ameren's natural gas margins decreased
$7 million, or 4%, for the three months ended March 31, 2015, compared with the same period in 2014. These results were primarily driven by Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois results, as discussed below. Ameren's electric margins also reflected ATXI's results of operations. ATXI's transmission revenues increased $10 million for the three months ended March 31, 2015, compared with the same period in 2014, reflecting
increased rate base investment and recoverable costs under
forward-looking formula ratemaking.
47Ameren MissouriAmeren Missouri has a FAC cost recovery mechanism that allows Ameren Missouri to recover, through customer rates, 95%
of changes in net energy costs greater or less than the amount
set in base rates without a traditional rate proceeding, subject to MoPSC prudence review. Net energy costs include fuel and
purchased power costs, including transportation charges and revenues, net of off-system sales. Ameren Missouri accrues, as a
regulatory asset, net energy costs that exceed the amount set in base rates (FAC under-recovery). Net recovery of these costs through customer rates does not affect Ameren Missouri's electric margins, as increases in revenue are offset by a corresponding increase in fuel expense to reduce the previously recognized FAC
regulatory asset.Ameren Missouri's electric margins decreased $13 million, or 3%, for the three months ended March 31, 2015, compared with the same period in 2014. The following items had an unfavorable effect on Ameren Missouri's electric margins:* Lower sales volumes primarily caused by the MEEIA programs. Excluding the estimated effect of weather, total retail sales volumes decreased 2%, which decreased revenues an estimated $8 million. Lower sales volumes led to a decrease in net energy costs of $3 million. The change in net energy costs is the sum of the change in off-system sales and transmission services revenues (+$8 million) and the change in energy costs (-$5 million) in the above table.* Winter temperatures in 2015 were milder compared to 2014 as heating degree-days decreased 10%, which resulted in lower sales volumes and an estimated $5 million decrease in margins. The change in weather margin is the sum of the effect of weather on electric revenues (-$9 million) and the effect of weather on fuel and purchased power (+$4 million)
in the above table.
Ameren Missouri has a cost recovery mechanism for natural gas purchased on behalf of its customers. These pass-through purchased gas costs do not affect Ameren Missouri's natural gas margins as they are offset by a corresponding amount in
revenues.Ameren Missouri's natural gas margins were comparable between periods.
Ameren Illinois Ameren Illinois has a cost recovery mechanism for power purchased on behalf of its customers. These pass-through power supply costs do not affect Ameren Illinois' electric margins, as they are offset by a corresponding amount in revenues.The provisions of the IEIMA and the FERC's electric transmission formula rate framework provide for annual
reconciliations of the electric delivery and transmission service
revenue requirements necessary to reflect the actual costs
incurred in a given year with the revenue requirements in customer rates for that year, including an allowed return on equity. See Operations and Maintenance Expenses in this section
for additional information regarding the revenue requirements. In
each jurisdiction, if the current year's revenue requirement is greater than the revenue requirement reflected in that year's
customer rates, an increase to electric operating revenues with an offset to a regulatory asset is recorded to reflect the expected
recovery of those additional costs from customers within the next
two years. In each jurisdiction, if the current year's revenue
requirement is less than the revenue requirement reflected in that year's customer rates, a reduction to electric operating revenues with an offset to a regulatory liability is recorded to reflect the
expected refund to customers within the next two years. See
Note 2 - Rate and Regulatory Matters under Part I, Item 1, of this report for information regarding Ameren Illinois' revenue
requirement reconciliation pursuant to the IEIMA.Ameren Illinois' electric margins increased $16 million, or 6%, for the three months ended March 31, 2015, compared with the same period in 2014. The following items had a favorable effect on Ameren Illinois' electric margins:
- Higher base rates resulting in a $15 million increase to revenues under the formula rate framework as a result of the ICC's December 2014 IEIMA rate order.* In January 2015, the ICC issued an order regarding Ameren Illinois' cumulative power usage cost and its purchased power rider mechanism. Based on this January 2015 order, Ameren Illinois recorded a $15 million increase to electric
revenues.
- A net increase in recovery of bad debt charge-offs, customer energy efficiency program costs and environmental
remediation costs through rate-adjustment mechanisms, which increased revenues $4 million. See Other Operations
and Maintenance Expenses in this section for information on a related offsetting net increase in bad debt, customer energy efficiency, and environmental remediation costs.* Transmission services margins increased $1 million, largely due to a higher transmission services revenue requirement driven primarily by increased rate base investment. The
change in transmission services margins is the sum of the change in transmission services revenues (+$7 million) and the change in transmission services expenses (-$6 million)
in the above table.The following items had an unfavorable effect on Ameren Illinois' electric margins for the three months ended March 31, 2015, compared with the same period in 2014:* A $15 million reduction in revenues recorded pursuant to the IEIMA's revenue requirement reconciliation in response to a lower recognized return on equity as a result of lower United States Treasury bond yields and less of an increase of
recoverable costs in 2015 compared to 2014.* Winter temperatures in 2015 were milder compared to 2014 as heating degree-days decreased 10%, which resulted in lower sales volumes and an estimated $2 million decrease in margins. The change in weather margin is the sum of the effect of weather on electric revenues (-$5 million) and the effect of weather on fuel and purchased power (+$3 million)
in the above table.
Ameren Illinois has a cost recovery mechanism for natural gas purchased on behalf of its customers. These pass-through purchased gas costs do not affect Ameren Illinois' natural gas 48margins as they are offset by a corresponding amount in revenues.Ameren Illinois' natural gas margins decreased $7 million, or 4%, for the three months ended March 31, 2015, compared with the same period in 2014. The following items had an unfavorable effect on Ameren Illinois' natural gas margins:* Decreased gross receipts taxes due primarily to lower sales volumes as a result of milder winter temperatures in 2015, which decreased revenues $3 million. See Taxes Other Than Income Taxes in this section for information on a related offsetting decrease to gross receipts taxes.* Excluding the estimated effect of weather, total retail sales volumes decreased 6%, which decreased revenues an estimated $3 million.* Winter temperatures in 2015 were milder compared to 2014 as heating degree-days decreased 10%, which decreased margins an estimated $2 million. The change in weather margin is the sum of the effect of weather on gas revenues
(-$21 million) and the effect of weather on gas purchased for resale (+$19 million) in the above table.
Other Operations and Maintenance Expenses Ameren CorporationOther operations and maintenance expenses were $17 million lower in the first quarter of 2015, as compared with the first quarter of 2014. Other operations and maintenance expenses decreased $14 million at Ameren Missouri and increased $2 million at Ameren Illinois. In addition, other
operations and maintenance expenses at nonregistrant subsidiaries decreased $5 million.
Ameren MissouriOther operations and maintenance expenses were $14 million lower in the first quarter of 2015, as compared with the first quarter of 2014. The following items decreased other
operations and maintenance expenses between periods:* An $8 million reduction in disposal costs of low-level radioactive nuclear waste.* A $2 million decrease in customer energy efficiency program costs due to the timing of MEEIA spending.
Electric revenues from customer billings decreased by a corresponding amount, with no overall effect on net income.* A $2 million decrease in energy center maintenance costs, primarily due to fewer major outages at coal-fired energy
centers.Ameren IllinoisPursuant to the provisions of the IEIMA and the FERC's electric transmission formula rate framework, recoverable electric
service costs, that are not recovered through separate cost recovery mechanisms, are included in Ameren Illinois' revenue
requirement reconciliations, which result in corresponding adjustments to electric operating revenues, with no overall effect on net income. These recoverable electric service costs include
other operations and maintenance expenses, depreciation and amortization, taxes other than income taxes, interest charges,
and income taxes.
Other operations and maintenance expenses were $2 million higher in the first quarter of 2015, as compared with the first quarter of 2014. The increased expense was primarily due to a $5 million increase in bad debt, customer energy efficiency, and environmental remediation costs. These expenses are recovered by Ameren Illinois' cost recovery mechanisms through additional electric and natural gas revenues, resulting in no overall effect on net income. The increase in other operations and maintenance
expenses was mitigated by a $3 million decrease in natural gas
maintenance expenditures, primarily related to the timing of
pipeline integrity compliance expenditures. Depreciation and Amortization
Ameren CorporationDepreciation and amortization expenses increased $12 million in the first quarter of 2015, as compared with the first quarter of 2014, primarily due to increased expenses at Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois as discussed below.
Ameren MissouriDepreciation and amortization expenses increased $2 million, primarily due to electric capital additions completed in the fourth quarter of 2014.
Ameren IllinoisDepreciation and amortization expenses increased $10 million, primarily because of electric capital additions and amortization of natural gas software.Taxes Other Than Income Taxes
Ameren CorporationTaxes other than income taxes decreased $2 million in the first quarter of 2015, as compared with the first quarter of 2014, primarily due to decreased expenses at Ameren Illinois, partially offset by increased expenses at Ameren Missouri, as discussed below.Ameren MissouriTaxes other than income taxes increased $2 million, primarily because of increased property taxes resulting from both higher tax rates and assessed property tax values.
Ameren IllinoisTaxes other than income taxes decreased $3 million, primarily due to decreased gross receipts taxes resulting from lower natural gas sales volumes. Natural gas revenues from
customer billings decreased by a corresponding amount, with no overall effect on net income. See Excise Taxes in Note 1 -
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies under Part I, Item 1,
of this report for additional information.
49Other Income and Expenses Ameren Corporation Other income, net of expenses, was comparable between periods. See Note 5 - Other Income and Expenses under Part I, Item 1, of this report for additional information.
Ameren MissouriOther income, net of expenses, decreased $2 million, primarily because of a decrease in the allowance for equity funds used during construction as multiple capital projects were
completed in the fourth quarter of 2014.
Ameren IllinoisOther income, net of expenses, increased $3 million, primarily because of increased interest income on the IEIMA 2013, 2014 and 2015 revenue requirement reconciliation
regulatory assets.
Interest Charges
Ameren CorporationInterest charges decreased $4 million in the first quarter of 2015, as compared with the first quarter of 2014, primarily because of a $9 million reduction in interest charges at Ameren
(parent), resulting from the maturity of $425 million of 8.875%
senior unsecured notes in May 2014, which were replaced with lower-cost debt. Partially offsetting this reduction were increases in interest charges at Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois, as discussed below.
Ameren MissouriInterest charges increased $3 million, primarily because of a decrease in the allowance for funds used during construction, as multiple capital projects were completed in the fourth quarter of
2014. Interest on the $350 million of 3.50% senior secured notes issued in April 2014 also increased interest charges.
Ameren IllinoisInterest charges increased $3 million, primarily due to interest on the $250 million of 4.30% senior secured notes issued in June 2014 and the $300 million of 3.25% senior secured notes
issued in December 2014.Income TaxesThe following table presents effective income tax rates for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014:
Three Months (a)20152014Ameren38%39%Ameren Missouri 38%38%Ameren Illinois 39%39%(a) Based on the current estimate of the annual effective tax rate adjusted to reflect the tax effect of items discrete to the relevant period.
Ameren CorporationThe effective tax rate was lower in the first quarter of 2015, as compared with the first quarter of 2014, primarily due to lower Illinois state income tax expense in 2015 resulting from a reduced
statutory rate, decreased tax expense related to stock-based
compensation, and higher tax benefits from company-owned life
insurance.
Ameren MissouriThe effective tax rate was comparable between periods.
Ameren IllinoisThe effective tax rate was comparable between periods. Loss from Discontinued Operations, Net of Taxes No material activity was recorded associated with discontinued operations in the first quarter of 2015 or in the first quarter of 2014. See Note 12 - Divestiture Transactions and
Discontinued Operations under Part I, Item 1, of this report for
additional information.LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCESOur tariff-based gross margins are our principal source of cash from operating activities. A diversified retail customer mix, primarily consisting of rate-regulated residential, commercial, and
industrial customers, provides us with a reasonably predictable
source of cash. In addition to using cash generated from
operating activities, we use available cash, credit agreement
borrowings, commercial paper issuances, money pool borrowings, or, in the case of Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois, other short-term borrowings from affiliates to support normal operations and temporary capital requirements. We may
reduce our short-term borrowings with cash from operations, with long-term borrowings, or, in the case of Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois, with capital contributions from Ameren (parent).
We expect to make significant capital expenditures over the next
five years as we invest in our electric and natural gas utility infrastructure to support overall system reliability, environmental compliance, and other improvements. We intend to fund those
capital expenditures with available cash on hand, cash generated
from operating activities, and commercial paper and debt
issuances so that we maintain an equity ratio around 50%,
assuming constructive regulatory environments. We plan to implement our long-term financing plans for debt, equity, or
equity-linked securities to finance our operations, to fund
scheduled debt maturities, and to maintain financial strength and flexibility.
The use of cash from operating activities and short-term borrowings to fund capital expenditures and other long-term
investments may periodically result in a working capital deficit,
defined as current liabilities exceeding current assets, as was the case at March31, 2015. The working capital deficit as of March31, 2015, was primarily the result of increased commercial paper issuances. With the 2012 Credit Agreements, the Ameren 50Companies have access to $2.1 billion of credit capacity, of which $1.1 billion was available at March31, 2015.The following table presents net cash provided by (used in) operating, investing and financing activities for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014:
Net Cash Provided ByOperating Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used In)Investing Activities Net CashProvided by (Used In)Financing Activities20152014Variance20152014Variance20152014Variance Ameren(a) - continuing operations$297$239$58$(439)$(465)$26$142$70$72Ameren(a) - discontinued operations 1-1-152(152)---Ameren Missouri 1579661(169)(204)3512107(95)Ameren Illinois 25419262(207)(214)7(48)22(70)(a) Includes amounts for Ameren registrant and nonregistrant subsidiaries and intercompany eliminations.Cash Flows from Operating Activities Ameren CorporationAmeren's cash from operating activities associated with continuing operations increased $58 million in the first quarter of 2015, compared with the same period in 2014. The following
items contributed to the increase:
- A $40 million increase in natural gas commodity costs collected from customers under the PGAs, primarily related to Ameren Illinois.* A $37 million increase in the collection of customer receivable balances driven by the timing and amount of
revenues in each period.* A $30 million increase in net energy costs collected from Ameren Missouri customers under the FAC.* A $29 million increase in cash associated with Ameren Illinois' IEIMA revenue requirement reconciliation adjustments as Ameren Illinois collected $15 million from
customers in 2015 and refunded $14 million to customers in
2014.* Electric and natural gas margins, as discussed in Results of
Operations excluding certain noncash items, increased $12
million.
- A $9 million decrease in Ameren Missouri rebate payments
provided for customer-installed solar generation.* A $6 million decrease associated with stock-based compensation awards.The following items partially offset the increase in Ameren's cash from operating activities associated with continuing operations between periods:* A $28 million difference in purchased power commodity costs incurred compared with amounts collected from Ameren Illinois customers.
- A $26 million increase in coal purchases at Ameren Missouri
caused by increased volumes and prices.* A $26 million increase in Ameren Illinois payments to natural gas suppliers caused by increased prices and timing of
purchases.* A net $12 million decrease in returns of collateral posted with counterparties, primarily resulting from changes in the
market prices of power and natural gas and in contracted commodity volumes, partially offset by the effect of credit
rating upgrades.* An $8 million difference in expenditures for customer energy efficiency programs compared with amounts collected from
Ameren Illinois customers.* A $7 million increase in property tax payments at Ameren Missouri caused by both higher assessed property tax
values and tax rates.* A $7 million reduction in income tax refunds due to the absence in 2015 of 2014 tax credit sales.Ameren's cash from operating activities associated with discontinued operations was comparable between periods.
Ameren MissouriAmeren Missouri's cash from operating activities increased $61 million in the first quarter of 2015, compared with the same period in 2014. The following items contributed to the increase:* Income tax refunds of $47 million in 2015, compared with income tax payments of $1 million in 2014, pursuant to the tax allocation agreement with Ameren (parent) resulting in
refunds related to accelerated depreciation deductions and
an income tax refund from the settlement of the 2007 IRS
audit.* A $30 million increase in net energy costs collected from customers under the FAC.* A $9 million decrease in rebate payments provided for customer-installed solar generation.* A $4 million increase in natural gas commodity costs collected from customers under the PGA.The following items partially offset the increase in Ameren Missouri's cash from operating activities between periods:
- A $26 million increase in coal purchases caused by increased volumes and prices.* Electric and natural gas margins, as discussed in Results of Operations excluding certain noncash items, decreased $11 million.* A $7 million increase in property tax payments caused by both higher assessed property tax values and tax rates.
51Ameren IllinoisAmeren Illinois' cash from operating activities increased $62 million in the first quarter of 2015, compared with the same period in 2014. The following items contributed to the increase:* A $38 million increase in the collection of customer receivable balances, driven by the timing and amount of revenues in each period.
- A $36 million increase in natural gas commodity costs
collected from customers under the PGA.* A $29 million increase in cash associated with IEIMA revenue requirement reconciliation adjustments as $15
million was collected from customers in 2015 and $14 million
was refunded to customers in 2014.
- A $19 million increase in income tax refunds received from
Ameren (parent) pursuant to the tax allocation agreement
resulting in refunds related to accelerated depreciation
deductions and an income tax refund from the settlement of
the 2007 IRS audit.* Electric and natural gas margins, as discussed in Results of Operations excluding certain noncash items, increased $13
million. The following items partially offset the increase in Ameren Illinois' cash from operating activities between periods:
- A $28 million difference in purchased power commodity costs incurred compared with amounts collected from customers.
- A $26 million increase in payments to natural gas suppliers caused by increased prices and timing of purchases.* A net $13 million decrease in returns of collateral posted with counterparties, primarily resulting from changes in the
market prices of power and natural gas and in contracted commodity volumes, partially offset by the effect of credit
rating upgrades.
- An $8 million difference in expenditures for customer energy efficiency programs compared with amounts collected from
customers.Cash Flows from Investing ActivitiesAmeren's cash used in investing activities associated with continuing operations decreased $26 million in the first quarter of 2015, compared with the same period in 2014. Capital expenditures decreased
$25 million at Ameren as a result of the activity at Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois as discussed below. The Ameren total includes a $65 million increase in ATXI's
capital expenditures which primarily relate to the Illinois Rivers
project. In addition, reduced collateral support provided to
Marketing Company in the form of a note receivable further contributed to a decrease in cash used in investing activities. This cash collateral support is part of Ameren's obligation to provide certain limited credit support to New AER until December 2, 2015. See Note 12 - Divestiture Transactions and Discontinued
Operations in Part I, Item 1, of this report for additional
information. In the first quarter of 2014, Ameren's cash provided by investing activities associated with discontinued operations
consisted of $152 million received from Rockland Capital for the sale of the Elgin, Gibson City, and Grand Tower gas-fired energy
centers.Ameren Missouri's cash used in investing activities decreased $35 million, due to decreased reliability and energy
center capital expenditures. Multiple capital projects were
completed in the fourth quarter of 2014.Ameren Illinois' cash used in investing activities decreased $7 million due to a decrease in capital expenditures for transmission projects offset, in part, by increases in reliability and IEIMA projects. The decrease in capital expenditures was partially offset by an increase in net money pool advances. While
spending related to transmission projects decreased during the
first quarter of 2015, compared to the prior year period, capital
expenditures related to transmission projects for calendar year
2015 are expected to exceed calendar year 2014 amounts.
Ameren Missouri continually reviews its generation portfolio and expected power needs. As a result, Ameren Missouri could modify its plan for generation capacity, the type of generation
asset technology that will be employed, and whether capacity or power may be purchased, among other changes. Additionally, we
continually review the reliability of our transmission and
distribution systems, expected capacity needs, and opportunities for transmission investments.The timing and amount of investments could vary because of changes in expected capacity,
the condition of transmission and distribution systems, and our
ability and willingness to pursue transmission investments, among other factors. Any changes in future generation,
transmission, or distribution needs could result in significant
capital expenditures or losses, which could be material.
Compliance with environmental regulations could also have
significant impacts on the level of capital expenditures. See Note
9 - Commitments and Contingencies in Part I, Item 1, of this
report for additional information.Cash Flows from Financing ActivitiesAmeren's financing activities associated with continuing operations provided net cash of $142 million during the first quarter of 2015, compared to $70 million during the first quarter of 2014. The increased cash provided by financing activities resulted from increased borrowing activity. In the first quarter of 2015 and 2014, Ameren issued short-term debt to fund investing activities that were not funded by cash generated from operating activities. In addition, in the first quarter of 2014, Ameren Illinois
redeemed long-term debt.
No cash from financing activities was used for discontinued operations during 2015 or 2014.Ameren Missouri's financing activities provided net cash of $12 million during the first quarter of 2015, compared to $107
million during the same period in 2014. In the first quarter of 2015, Ameren Missouri received a capital contribution from
Ameren (parent) of $224 million, received a net $61 million from 52the money pool, issued a net $43 million of short-term debt, and paid common stock dividends of $315 million. In comparison, in 2014, Ameren Missouri issued a net $290 million of short-term debt, repaid a net $105 million to the money pool, and paid
common stock dividends of $77 million. During both years,
Ameren Missouri used cash from financing activities to fund
investing activities that were not funded by cash generated from
operating activities. Ameren Illinois' financing activities used net cash of $48 million during the first quarter of 2015, compared with the same period in 2014, when financing activities provided net cash of $22 million. In the first quarter of 2015, Ameren Illinois repaid a net
$32 million of short-term debt and repaid a net $15 million to the money pool. During the first quarter of 2015, Ameren Illinois used
cash generated from operating activities and cash on hand to
fund investing and financing activities. In comparison, in 2014,
Ameren Illinois received a net $186 million from the money pool and redeemed long-term debt of $163 million. During the first quarter of 2014, Ameren Illinois used cash from financing
activities to fund investing activities that were not funded by cash
generated from operating activities.
Credit Facility Borrowings and LiquidityThe liquidity needs of Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois are typically supported through the use of available cash, short-term intercompany borrowings, drawings under committed credit agreements or commercial paper issuances. See Note 3 - Short-term Debt
and Liquidity under Part I, Item 1, of this report for additional information on credit agreements, short-term borrowing activity
, commercial paper issuances, relevant interest rates, and borrowings under Ameren's money pool arrangements.The following table presents the 2012 Credit Agreements of Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois and the credit capacity available under such agreements, considering reductions for letters of credit and commercial paper issuances, as of March31, 2015:ExpirationBorrowingCapacityCreditAvailable Ameren and Ameren Missouri:
2012 Missouri Credit AgreementDecember 2019$1,000$1,000Less: Ameren (parent) commercial paper outstanding (a)475Less: Ameren Missouri commercial paper outstanding (a)140Subtotal385Ameren and Ameren Illinois:
2012 Illinois Credit Agreement December 2019 1,1001,100Less: Ameren (parent) commercial paper outstanding (a)340Less: Letters of credit (b)(a)13Subtotal747Ameren Total
$2,100$1,132(a) Not applicable.(b) As of March31, 2015, $9 million of the letters of credit related to Ameren's credit support obligations to New AER. See Note 12 - Divestiture Transactions and Discontinued Operations under Part I, Item 1, of this report for additional information. The 2012 Credit Agreements are used to borrow cash, to issue letters of credit, and to support issuances under Ameren's, Ameren Missouri's, and Ameren Illinois' commercial paper programs. Either of the 2012 Credit Agreements are available to Ameren to support issuances under Ameren's commercial paper program, subject to borrowing sublimits. The 2012 Missouri Credit Agreement is available to support issuances under Ameren Missouri's commercial paper program. The 2012 Illinois Credit Agreement is available to support issuances under Ameren Illinois' commercial paper program. Issuances under the Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois commercial paper programs were available at lower interest rates than the interest rates available under the 2012 Credit Agreements.As such,
commercial paper issuances were a preferred source of third-
party short-term debt relative to credit facility borrowings. The Ameren Companies continually evaluate the adequacy and appropriateness of their liquidity arrangements given
changing business conditions. When business conditions
warrant, changes may be made to existing credit agreements or
to other short-term borrowing arrangements.
53Long-term Debt and EquityThe following table presents the redemptions of long-term debt for the Ameren Companies for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014. The Ameren Companies did not have any issuances of common stock during the first three months of 2015 or 2014. In March 2015, Ameren Missouri received cash capital contributions of $224 million from Ameren (parent). For additional information, see Note 4 -
Long-term Debt under Part I, Item1, of this report
.Three Months Month Redeemed 20152014Ameren Illinois:
5.90% Series 1993 due 2023 (a)January$-$325.70% 1994A Series due 2024 (a)January-365.95% 1993 Series C-1 due 2026 January-355.70% 1993 Series C-2 due 2026 January-85.40% 1998A Series due 2028 January-195.40% 1998B Series due 2028 January-33Total Ameren long-term debt redemptions
$-$163(a) Less than $1 million principal amount of the bonds remain outstanding after redemption.In April 2015, Ameren Missouri issued $250 million of 3.65% senior secured notes due April 15, 2045, with interest payable semiannually on April 15 and October 15 of each year, beginning October 15, 2015. Ameren Missouri received proceeds of $247 million, which were used to repay outstanding short-term debt, including short-term debt that Ameren Missouri incurred in connection with the repayment of $114 million of its 4.75% senior secured notes that matured on April 1, 2015. The Ameren Companies may sell securities registered under their effective registration statements if market conditions and capital requirements warrant such sales. Any offer and sale will
be made only by means of a prospectus that meets the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933 and the rules and regulations thereunder.
Indebtedness Provisions and Other Covenants See Note 3 - Short-term Debt and Liquidity and Note 4 -
Long-term Debt under Part I, Item1, of this report and Note 4 -
Short-term Debt and Liquidity and Note 5 - Long-term Debt and
Equity Financings under Part II, Item8, of the Form 10-K for a
discussion of covenants and provisions (and applicable cross-
default provisions) contained in our credit agreements and in certain of the Ameren Companies' indentures and articles of
incorporation.At March31, 2015, the Ameren Companies were in compliance with the provisions and covenants contained within
their credit agreements, indentures, and articles of incorporation.We consider access to short-term and long-term capital markets a significant source of funding for capital requirements
not satisfied by cash generated from our operating activities.
Inability to raise capital on reasonable terms, particularly during times of uncertainty in the capital markets, could negatively affect our ability to maintain and expand our businesses. After assessing its current operating performance, liquidity, and credit ratings (see Credit Ratings below), Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois each believes that it will continue to have access to the capital markets. However, events beyond Ameren's, Ameren Missouri's, and Ameren Illinois' control may
create uncertainty in the capital markets or make access to the
capital markets uncertain or limited. Such events could increase our cost of capital and adversely affect our ability to access the
capital markets.
DividendsThe amount and timing of dividends payable on Ameren's common stock are within the sole discretion of Ameren's board of directors. Ameren's board of directors has not set specific targets
or payout parameters when declaring common stock dividends but considers various factors, including Ameren's overall payout
ratio, payout ratios of our peers, projected cash flow and potential future cash flow requirements, historical earnings and cash flow,
projected earnings, impacts of regulatory orders or legislation, and other key business considerations. Ameren expects its
dividend payout ratio to be between 55% and 70% of earnings over the next few years. On April 24, 2015, Ameren's board of
directors declared a quarterly common stock dividend of 41 cents
per share payable on June 30, 2015, to stockholders of record at
the close of business on June 10, 2015.
See Note 4 - Short-term Debt and Liquidity and Note 5 -
Long-term Debt and Equity Financings under Part II, Item8, of
the Form 10-K for additional discussion of covenants and provisions contained in certain of the Ameren Companies'
financial agreements and articles of incorporation that would restrict the Ameren Companies' payment of dividends in certain circumstances. At March31, 2015, none of these circumstances existed at Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois and, as
a result, these companies were not restricted from paying
dividends.
54The following table presents common stock dividends declared and paid by Ameren Corporation to its common stockholders and by Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois to their parent, Ameren Corporation, for the three months ended March 31, 2015, and 2014:
Three Months 20152014Ameren Missouri
$315$77Ameren Illinois
--Ameren9997Contractual Obligations For a listing of our obligations and commitments, see Other Obligations in Note 9 - Commitments and Contingencies under Part I, Item1, of this report. See Note 11 - Retirement Benefits
under Part I, Item1, of this report for information regarding
expected minimum funding levels for our pension plan.At March31, 2015, total other obligations related to commitments for coal, natural gas, nuclear fuel, purchased power, methane gas, equipment, customer energy efficiency
program expenditures and meter reading services, among other agreements, at Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois were $5,326 million, $3,577 million, and $1,702 million, respectively. Off-Balance-Sheet ArrangementsAt March31, 2015, none of the Ameren Companies had any off-balance-sheet financing arrangements, other than operating leases entered into in the ordinary course of business. None of the Ameren Companies expect to engage in any significant off-
balance-sheet financing arrangements in the near future. See Note 12 - Divestiture Transactions and Discontinued Operations under Part I, Item 1, of this report for Ameren (parent) guarantees and letters of credit issued to support New AER based on the
transaction agreement with IPH.
Credit RatingsThe credit ratings of the Ameren Companies affect our liquidity, our access to the capital markets and credit markets, our cost of borrowing under our credit facilities and collateral posting
requirements under commodity contracts.
The following table presents the principal credit ratings of the Ameren Companies by Moody's, S&P and Fitch effective on
the date of this report:Moody'sS&PFitch Ameren:
Issuer/corporate credit ratingBaa1BBB+BBB+
Senior unsecured debtBaa1BBBBBB+
Commercial paperP-2A-2F2Ameren Missouri:
Issuer/corporate credit ratingBaa1BBB+BBB+
Secured debtA2AASenior unsecured debtBaa1BBB+A-Commercial paperP-2A-2F2Ameren Illinois:
Issuer/corporate credit ratingA3BBB+BBB+
Secured debtA1AASenior unsecured debtA3BBB+A-Commercial paperP-2A-2F2A credit rating is not a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold securities. It should be evaluated independently of any other
rating. Ratings are subject to revision or withdrawal at any time
by the rating organization.
Collateral Postings Any adverse change in our credit ratings may reduce access to capital and trigger additional collateral postings and prepayments. Such changes may also increase the cost of
borrowing, resulting in a potential negative impact on earnings.
Cash collateral postings and prepayments made with external
parties, including postings related to exchange-traded contracts, at March31, 2015, were $9 million, $8 million, and $1 million at Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois, respectively.
Cash collateral posted by external counterparties with Ameren and Ameren Illinois was $2 million, at March31, 2015. Sub-
investment-grade issuer or senior unsecured debt ratings (lower than "BBB-" or "Baa3") at March31, 2015, could have resulted in Ameren, Ameren Missouri, or Ameren Illinois being required to
post additional collateral or other assurances for certain trade
obligations amounting to $157 million, $83 million, and $74 million, respectively.
Changes in commodity prices could trigger additional collateral postings and prepayments. Based on credit ratings at March 31, 2015, if market prices were 15% higher than March31,
2015 levels in the next 12 months and 20% higher thereafter
through the end of the term of the commodity contracts, then Ameren, Ameren Missouri, or Ameren Illinois would not be
required to post additional collateral or other assurances for
certain trade obligations. Based on credit ratings at March 31, 2015, if market prices were 15% lower than March31, 2015
levels in the next 12 months and 20% lower thereafter through the end of the term of the commodity contracts, then Ameren, Ameren Missouri, or Ameren Illinois could be required to post
additional collateral or other assurances for certain trade
obligations up to $25 million, $13 million, and $12 million, respectively.The balance of Marketing Company's note payable to Ameren for cash collateral requirements was $12 million at March31, 2015. This balance will fluctuate until December 2, 552015, as cash collateral requirements caused by changes in commodity prices could trigger additional collateral postings and prepayments for New AER and thus affect the balance of the note. Ameren's obligation to provide credit support on behalf of New AER will cease on December 2, 2015. If market prices were 15% higher than their March31, 2015 levels in the next 12
months and 20% higher thereafter through the end of the term of the commodity contracts, then Ameren could be required to
provide additional credit support to IPH, up to $19 million. If market prices were 15% lower than their March31, 2015 levels in
the next 12 months and 20% lower thereafter through the end of the term of the commodity contracts, then Ameren could be
required to provide IPH with additional credit support up to $25 million. If, on March31, 2015, Ameren's credit ratings had been below investment grade, Ameren could have been required to post additional cash collateral in support of New AER in the
amount of $20 million.See Note 12 - Divestiture Transactions and Discontinued Operations under Part I, Item 1, of this report for information regarding Ameren (parent) guarantees.
OUTLOOKWe seek to earn competitive returns on investments in our businesses. We are seeking to improve our regulatory frameworks and cost recovery mechanisms and simultaneously
pursuing constructive regulatory outcomes within existing frameworks. We are seeking to align our overall spending, both
operating and capital, with economic conditions and with
regulatory frameworks established by our regulators.
Consequently, we are focused on minimizing the gap between allowed and earned returns on equity. We intend to allocate capital resources to our business opportunities that offer the most
attractive risk-adjusted return potential.
Below are some key trends, events, and uncertainties that are reasonably likely to affect the Ameren Companies' results of operations, financial condition, or liquidity, as well as their ability
to achieve strategic and financial objectives, for 2015 and
beyond.Operations
- Our strategy for earning competitive returns on our investments involves meeting customer energy needs in an efficient fashion, working to enhance regulatory frameworks,
making timely and well-supported rate case filings, and
aligning overall spending with those rate case outcomes,
economic conditions, and return opportunities.* Ameren continues to pursue its plans to invest in FERC-regulated electric transmission. MISO has approved three electric transmission projects to be developed by ATXI. The
first project, Illinois Rivers, involves the construction of a
345-kilovolt line from western Indiana across the state of Illinois to eastern Missouri. The first sections of the Illinois Rivers project are expected to be completed in 2016. The
last section of this project is expected to be completed by 2019. The Spoon River project in northwest Illinois and the Mark Twain project in northeast Missouri are the other two MISO-approved projects to be constructed by ATXI. These two projects are expected to be completed in 2018. The total
investment in these three projects is expected to be more than $1.4 billion during 2015 through 2019. This total includes over $100 million of investment by Ameren Illinois
to construct connections to its existing transmission system.
Separate from the three projects discussed above, Ameren
Illinois expects to invest approximately $900 million in
electric transmission assets during 2015 through 2019 to
address load growth and reliability requirements.* Both Ameren Illinois and ATXI use a forward-looking rate calculation with an annual revenue requirement reconciliation for each company's electric transmission business. Using the rates that became effective on January 1, 2015, and the currently allowed 12.38% return on equity, the 2015 revenue requirement for Ameren Illinois' electric
transmission business would be $199 million, which
represents a $40 million increase over the 2014 revenue requirement due to rate base growth. These rates also
reflect a capital structure composed of approximately 54%
common equity and a rate base of $890 million. Using the rates that became effective on January 1, 2015, and the currently allowed 12.38% return on equity, the 2015 revenue requirement for ATXI's electric transmission business would
be $80 million, which represents a $46 million increase over
the 2014 revenue requirement due to rate base growth, primarily as a result of the Illinois Rivers project. These rates
also reflect a capital structure composed of approximately
56% common equity and a rate base of $536 million.* The 12.38% return is the subject of two FERC complaint proceedings that challenge the allowed return on common
equity for MISO transmission owners. In January 2015, the
FERC scheduled the initial case for hearing proceedings,
requiring an initial decision to be issued no later than November 30, 2015. Ameren and Ameren Illinois recorded
current liabilities on their respective balance sheets as of
March 31, 2015, and December 31, 2014, representing their estimate of the refunds from the refund effective date of
November 12, 2013, through the respective balance sheet date. A 50 basis point reduction in the FERC-allowed return on common equity would reduce Ameren's and Ameren
Illinois' 2015 earnings by an estimated $4 million and $2 million, respectively, based on 2015 projected rate base.
- In January 2015, the FERC approved our request to implement an incentive adder of up to 50 basis points on the
allowed base return on common equity prospectively from
January 6, 2015, and to defer collection of the incentive
adder until the issuance of the final order addressing the
initial MISO complaint case discussed above.
- In April 2015, the MoPSC issued an order approving an increase in Ameren Missouri's annual revenues for electric
service of$122 million, including $109 million related to the
increase in net energy costs above the net energy costs
included in base rates previously authorized by the MoPSC.
The remaining increase of $13 million approved by the order was for non-energy costs. The revenue increase was based on a 9.53%return on common equity, a capital structure composed of51.8%common equity, and a rate base of$7.0
billion to reflect investments through December 31, 2014.
56Rate changes consistent with the order will become effective on May 30, 2015. The order approved Ameren Missouri's request for continued use of the FAC; however, it changed the FAC to exclude substantially all transmission charges
and revenues. In addition, the order did not approve the
continued use of regulatory tracking mechanisms for storm
costs and vegetation management and infrastructure inspection costs. These changes to Ameren Missouri's
recovery mechanisms are expected to contribute to
regulatory lag. For example, transmission charges previously included in the FAC that will now be included in
base rates totaled $30 million in 2014 and are expected to
increase to $36 million in 2015, with further cost increases expected in the foreseeable future. However, transmission
revenues totaled $34 million in 2014 and are expected to
increase to $36 million in 2015 and remain relatively constant in the foreseeable future. The order is also
expected to result in a net $35 million annual increase in
depreciation and amortization expenses as a result of
amortizing the previously deferred solar rebate costs and
the adjustment of other depreciation and amortization rates.
Other operations and maintenance expenses are expected
to decrease by $19 million as a result of incorporating a
reduced amount of pension and postretirement benefit costs
in base rates.* Ameren Missouri's current MEEIA plan provides for a cumulative investment in customer energy efficiency
programs of $147 million during 2013 through 2015.
Additionally, the plan provides for a performance incentive that would allow Ameren Missouri to earn additional revenues based on achievement of certain energy efficiency goals, including $19 million if 100% of its energy efficiency
goals are achieved during the three-year period, with the potential to earn more if Ameren Missouri's energy savings exceed those goals. Ameren Missouri expects to achieve the energy efficiency goals and will recognize revenues
associated with the performance incentive within the next two years. Ameren Missouri records revenues based on the
net shared benefits associated with the reduction in
customer energy usage that results from its energy efficiency programs. From January 2013 through March 2015, Ameren Missouri has recorded revenues of $100
million associated with the net shared benefits based on the megawatthour reductions provided by the MEEIA customer energy efficiency programs both in the program period and
in the future.* In December 2014, Ameren Missouri filed a proposed energy efficiency plan for 2016 through 2018 with the MoPSC under the MEEIA. The amount of investment, net
shared benefits, and performance incentive under this
proposed plan are lower than the 2013 through 2015 plan.
The terms of any new plan are subject to MoPSC approval
and are currently uncertain.
- The IEIMA provides for an annual reconciliation of the revenue requirement necessary to reflect the actual costs
incurred in a given year with the revenue requirement that was reflected in customer rates for that year. Consequently,
Ameren Illinois' 2015 electric delivery service revenues will
be based on its 2015 actual recoverable costs, rate base, and return on common equity as calculated under the
IEIMA's performance-based formula ratemaking framework.
The 2015 revenue requirement is expected to be higher
than the 2014 revenue requirement, due to an expected
increase in recoverable costs and rate base growth, partially offset by a reduction in the allowed return on equity due to lower United States Treasury bond yields. A 50 basis point
change in the average monthly yields of the 30-year United States Treasury bonds would result in an estimated $6 million change in Ameren's and Ameren Illinois' 2015 net
income.* In December 2014, the ICC approved a $204 million increase in Ameren Illinois' electric delivery service revenue requirement, beginning in January 2015. These rates have affected and will continue to affect Ameren Illinois' cash
receipts during 2015, but will not be the sole determinant of
its electric delivery service operating revenues, which will
instead be largely determined by the IEIMA's 2015 revenue requirement reconciliation. The 2015 revenue requirement
reconciliation is expected to result in a regulatory asset that
will be collected from customers in 2017.
- In April 2015, Ameren Illinois filed with the ICC its annual electric delivery service formula rate update to establish the
revenue requirement used to set rates for 2016. Pending ICC approval, Ameren Illinois' update filing will result in a
$110 million increase in Ameren Illinois' electric delivery
service revenue requirement beginning in January 2016.
This update reflects an increase to the annual formula rate
based on 2014 actual costs and expected net plant
additions for 2015 and an increase to include the 2014
revenue requirement reconciliation adjustment.
- In January 2015, Ameren Illinois filed a request with the ICC seeking approval to increase its annual revenues for natural gas delivery service by $53 million. A decision by the ICC in
this proceeding is required by December 2015, and new rates are expected to be effective in January 2016.
- Ameren Missouri's next scheduled refueling and maintenance outage at its Callaway energy center will be in the spring of 2016. During the 2014 refueling, Ameren
Missouri incurred maintenance expenses of $36 million.
During a scheduled outage, which occurs every 18 months,
maintenance expenses increase relative to non-outage years. Additionally, depending on the availability of its other generation sources and the market prices for power, Ameren
Missouri's purchased power costs may increase and the
amount of excess power available for sale may decrease
versus non-outage years. Changes in purchased power
costs and excess power available for sale are included in the FAC, resulting in limited impacts to earnings.* As of March31, 2015, Ameren Missouri had capitalized $69 million of costs incurred to license additional nuclear generation at its Callaway energy site. In 2009, Ameren Missouri suspended its efforts to build a new nuclear unit at
the Callaway site, and the NRC suspended review of the COL application. The suspended status of the COL
application currently extends through the end of 2015. If efforts to license additional nuclear generation are abandoned, the NRC does not extend the COL application
suspended status, or if management concludes that it is 57probable the costs incurred will be disallowed in rates, a charge to earnings would be recognized in the period in
which that determination was made.* Ameren Missouri is engaged in litigation with an insurer to recover an unpaid liability insurance claim for the December 2005 breach of the upper reservoir at Ameren Missouri's Taum Sauk pumped-storage hydroelectric energy center.
Ameren's and Ameren Missouri's results of operations, financial position, and liquidity could be adversely affected if Ameren Missouri's insurance receivable of $41 million as of March31, 2015, is not paid by the insurer.
- Under the provisions of the CSRA, Ameren Illinois received ICC approval for its QIP rider in January 2015 and
subsequently began including qualified investments and recording revenue under this regulatory framework. Ameren
Illinois started recovering costs from these investments in
March 2015.* As we continue to experience cost increases and to make infrastructure investments, Ameren Missouri and Ameren
Illinois expect to seek regular electric and natural gas rate
increases and timely cost recovery and tracking mechanisms from their regulators. Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois will also seek, as necessary, legislative
solutions to address cost recovery pressures and to support investment in their energy infrastructure. These pressures
include limited economic growth in their service territories, customer conservation efforts, the impacts of additional customer energy efficiency programs, increased use of
distributed generation, increased investments and expected
future investments for environmental compliance, system reliability improvements, and new generation capacity,
including renewable energy requirements. Increased
investments also result in higher depreciation and financing
costs. Increased costs are also expected from rising
employee benefit costs and higher property and income
taxes, among others.
For additional information regarding recent rate orders and related appeals, pending requests filed with state and federal regulatory commissions, and Taum Sauk matters, see Note 2 -
Rate and Regulatory Matters, Note 9 - Commitments and
Contingencies, and Note 10 - Callaway Energy Center under Part
I, Item 1, of this report and Note 2 - Rate and Regulatory Matters
under Part II, Item 8, of the Form 10-K.
Liquidity and Capital Resources* We expect to incur significant capital expenditures in order to make investments to improve our electric and natural gas utility infrastructure and to comply with existing environmental regulations. We estimate that we will incur up to $9.3 billion (Ameren Missouri - up to $3.9 billion; Ameren Illinois - up to $4.0 billion; ATXI- up to $1.4 billion) of capital
expenditures during the period from 2015 through 2019.* Existing and future environmental regulations, including those related to greenhouse gas emissions, or other actions taken by the EPA, could result in significant increases in capital expenditures and operating costs. These costs could be prohibitive at some of Ameren Missouri's coal-fired energy centers. Ameren Missouri's capital expenditures are
subject to MoPSC prudence reviews, which could result in cost disallowances as well as regulatory lag. The cost of Ameren Illinois' purchased power and gas purchased for resale could increase; however, Ameren Illinois expects
these costs would be recovered from customers with no material adverse effect on its results of operations, financial position, or liquidity. Ameren's and Ameren Missouri's
earnings could benefit from increased investment to comply
with environmental regulations if those investments are
reflected and recovered timely in rates.* Ameren Missouri continues to evaluate its longer-term needs for new baseload and peaking electric generation capacity. Ameren Missouri files a non-binding integrated resource plan with the MoPSC every three years. Ameren Missouri's integrated resource plan filed with the MoPSC in
October 2014 is a 20-year plan that supports a more fuel-diverse energy portfolio in Missouri, including coal, solar, wind, natural gas and nuclear power. The plan includes
expanding renewable generation, retiring coal-fired
generation as energy centers reach the end of their useful
lives, and adding natural-gas-fired combined cycle generation. Ameren Missouri continues to study future alternatives, including additional customer energy efficiency
programs, that could help defer new energy center construction. Ameren Missouri's integrated resource plan is
projected to achieve the final carbon emissions reduction targets proposed in the EPA's Clean Power Plan by 2035, rather than the EPA's final target date of 2030 or its interim target dates beginning in 2020. The EPA expects the
proposed rule will be finalized in 2015.* Ameren Missouri continues to evaluate its potential compliance plans for the proposed Clean Power Plan. If the
proposed Clean Power Plan were to be implemented in its current form, Ameren Missouri may need to incur new or
accelerated capital expenditures and increased fuel costs in order to achieve compliance. As proposed, the Clean Power
Plan would require states, including Missouri and Illinois, to
submit compliance plans as early as 2016. Compliance plans might require Ameren Missouri to construct natural-
gas-fired combined cycle generation and renewable
generation, currently estimated to cost approximately $2 billion by 2020, that Ameren Missouri believes would
otherwise not be necessary to meet the energy needs of its customers. Additionally, Missouri's implementation of the
proposed rules, if adopted, could result in the closure or alteration of the operation of some of Ameren Missouri's
coal and natural gas-fired energy centers, which could result
in increased operating costs or impairment of assets.
58* To fund investment requirements of our businesses, we seek to maintain access to the capital markets at commercially attractive rates. We seek to enhance
regulatory frameworks and returns in order to improve liquidity, credit metrics, and access to capital.* The Ameren Companies have multiyear credit agreements that cumulatively provide $2.1 billion of credit through December 11, 2019, subject to a 364-day repayment term in the case of Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois. See Note
3 - Short-term Debt and Liquidity under Part I, Item 1, of this
report for additional information regarding the 2012 Credit Agreements. Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois
believe that their liquidity is adequate given their expected
operating cash flows, capital expenditures, and related financing plans. However, there can be no assurance that
significant changes in economic conditions, disruptions in
the capital and credit markets, or other unforeseen events will not materially affect their ability to execute their
expected operating, capital, or financing plans.* As of March31, 2015, Ameren had $511 million in tax benefits from federal and state net operating loss carryforwards (Ameren Missouri - $74 million and Ameren
Illinois - $134 million) and $134 million in federal and state
income tax credit carryforwards (Ameren Missouri - $24 million and Ameren Illinois - $1 million). These tax benefits
are subject to audits and examinations by taxing authorities for years 2013 and 2014. The amount of these tax benefits
has not been reduced by any unrecognized tax benefits.
Consistent with the tax allocation agreement between
Ameren and its subsidiaries, these carryforwards are expected to partially offset income tax liabilities for Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois during 2015 and 2016, while
Ameren does not expect to make material federal income tax payments until 2017. In addition, Ameren has $55 million
of expected income tax refunds and state overpayments that would offset income tax liabilities into 2017. These tax benefits, primarily at the Ameren (parent) level, when
realized, would be available to fund electric transmission investments, specifically ATXI's Illinois Rivers project.* Ameren expects its cash used for capital expenditures and dividends to exceed cash provided by operating activities over the next several years. Ameren does not expect the
need for public equity issuances to fund such cash
shortfalls, but may consider issuing stock through its
DRPlus and its 401(k) plans.
- The use of cash from operating activities and short-term borrowings to fund capital expenditures and other long-term
investments may periodically result in a working capital
deficit, defined by current liabilities exceeding current assets, as was the case at March31, 2015. The working capital deficit as of March31, 2015, was primarily the result of increased commercial paper issuances. The Ameren
Companies had $955 million of commercial paper issuances outstanding as of March31, 2015. With the 2012 Credit Agreements, the Ameren Companies have access to $2.1 billion of credit capacity, of which $1.1 billion was available at March31, 2015. In April 2015, Ameren Missouri issued
$250 million of 3.65% senior secured notes. The proceeds
Ameren Missouri received as a result of the issuance were
used to repay outstanding short-term debt, including short-term debt that Ameren Missouri incurred in connection with the repayment of $114 million of its 4.75% senior secured notes that matured on April 1, 2015.
The above items could have a material impact on our results of operations, financial position, or liquidity. Additionally, in the
ordinary course of business, we evaluate strategies to enhance our results of operations, financial position, or liquidity. These
strategies may include acquisitions, divestitures, and
opportunities to reduce costs or increase revenues, and other strategic initiatives to increase Ameren's stockholder value. We are unable to predict which, if any, of these initiatives will be executed. The execution of these initiatives may have a material
impact on our future results of operations, financial position, or liquidity.REGULATORY MATTERS See Note 2 - Rate and Regulatory Matters under Part I, Item 1, of this report.ITEM3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK.
Market risk is the risk of changes in value of a physical asset or a financial instrument, derivative or nonderivative, caused by
fluctuations in market variables such as interest rates, commodity prices, and equity security prices. A derivative is a contract whose
value is dependent on, or derived from, the value of some underlying asset or index. The following discussion of our risk
management activities includes forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ
materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements.
We handle market risk in accordance with established policies,
which may include entering into various derivative transactions.
In the normal course of business, we also face risks that are
either nonfinancial or nonquantifiable. Such risks, principally
business, legal, and operational risks, are not part of the following
discussion.
Our risk management objectives are to optimize our physical generating assets and to pursue market opportunities within
prudent risk parameters. Our risk management policies are set by
a risk management steering committee, which is composed of senior-level Ameren officers, with Ameren board of directors
oversight.
There have been no material changes to the quantitative and qualitative disclosures about interest rate risk, credit risk,
equity price risk, commodity price risk, and commodity supplier
risk included in the Form 10-K. See Item7A, under Part II, of the
Form 10-K for a more detailed discussion of our market risk.
59Fair Value of ContractsWe use derivatives principally to manage the risk of changes in market prices for natural gas, power, and uranium, as well as the risk of changes in rail transportation surcharges through fuel oil hedges. The following table presents the favorable (unfavorable) changes in the fair value of all derivative contracts marked-to-market during the three months ended March 31, 2015. We use various methods to determine the
fair value of our contracts. In accordance with authoritative accounting guidance for fair value hierarchy levels, the sources we used to
determine the fair value of these contracts were active quotes (Level 1), inputs corroborated by market data (Level 2), and other modeling and valuation methods that are not corroborated by market data (Level 3). See Note 7 - Fair Value Measurements under Part I, Item1, of this
report for additional information regarding the methods used to determine the fair value of these contracts.
AmerenMissouriAmerenIllinoisAmerenFair value of contracts at beginning of year, net
$(28)$(185)$(213)Contracts realized or otherwise settled during the period
-1111Fair value of new contracts entered into during the period
-(3)(3)Other changes in fair value (8)(36)(44)Fair value of contracts outstanding at end of period, net
$(36)$(213)$(249)The following table presents maturities of derivative contracts as of March31, 2015, based on the hierarchy levels used to determine the fair value of the contracts:
Sources of Fair Value MaturityLessthan1 YearMaturity1-3Years Maturity3-5Years Maturityin Excessof5 YearsTotalFairValue Ameren Missouri:
Level 1$(15)$(6)$-$-$(21)Level 2(a)(4)(5)(2)-(11)Level 3(b)(2)(2)--(4)Total$(21)$(13)$(2)$-$(36)Ameren Illinois:
Level 1$-$-$-$-$-Level 2(a)(32)(17)(1)-(50)Level 3(b)(10)(20)(19)(114)(163)Total$(42)$(37)$(20)$(114)$(213)
Ameren:
Level 1$(15)$(6)$-$-$(21)Level 2(a)(36)(22)(3)-(61)Level 3(b)(12)(22)(19)(114)(167)Total$(63)$(50)$(22)$(114)$(249)(a) Principally fixed-price vs. floating over-the-counter power swaps, power forwards, and fixed-price vs. floating over-the-counter natural gas swaps.(b) Principally power forward contract values based on information from external sources, historical results, and our estimates. Level 3 also includes option contract values based on a Black-Scholes model.ITEM4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES.(a) Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and ProceduresAs of March31, 2015, evaluations were performed under the supervision and with the participation of management, including the principal executive officer and principal financial officer of each of the Ameren Companies, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of such registrant's disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) of the Exchange Act). Based on those evaluations, as of March31, 2015, the principal executive officer and the principal financial officer of each of the Ameren Companies concluded that such disclosure controls and procedures are effective to provide assurance that information required to be disclosed in such registrant's reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC's rules and forms and such information is accumulated and communicated to its management, including its principal executive and its principal financial officers, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.(b) Changes in Internal Controls over Financial ReportingThere has been no change in any of the Ameren Companies' internal control over financial reporting during their most recent fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, each of their internal control over financial reporting.
60PART II. OTHER INFORMATIONITEM1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.We are involved in legal and administrative proceedings before various courts and agencies with respect to matters that arise in the ordinary course of business, some of which involve substantial amounts of money. We believe that the final disposition of these proceedings, except as otherwise disclosed in this report, will not have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial position, or liquidity.
Risk of loss is mitigated, in some cases, by insurance or contractual or statutory indemnification. Material legal and administrative
proceedings, which are discussed in Note 2 - Rate and Regulatory Matters, Note 9 - Commitments and Contingencies, and Note 10 -
Callaway Energy Center, under Part I, Item1, of this report or Note 2 - Rate and Regulatory Matters under Part II, Item8, of the Form 10-K
and incorporated herein by reference, include the following:* the MoPSC's April 2015 electric rate order;* Ameren Missouri's MEEIA filing with the MoPSC in December 2014;
- Ameren Illinois' annual electric delivery service formula rate update filed with the ICC in April 2015;
- ATXI's request for a certificate of public convenience and necessity and project approval from the ICC for the Spoon River project;
- Ameren Illinois' settlement agreement regarding an electric transmission rate refund pending FERC approval;
- the complaint cases filed with the FERC seeking a reduction in the allowed base return on common equity under the MISO tariff;
- remediation matters associated with former MGP and waste disposal sites of the Ameren Companies;
- litigation associated with Ameren Missouri's liability insurance claim for the breach of the upper reservoir of its Taum Sauk pumped-storage hydroelectric energy center in December 2005; and* asbestos-related litigation associated with the Ameren Companies.ITEM1A. RISK FACTORS.
There have been no material changes to the risk factors disclosed in Part I, Item 1A, Risk Factors in the Form 10-K.ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS.The following table presents Ameren Corporation's purchases of equity securities reportable under Item703 of Regulation S-K:
Period(a)TotalNumber of Shares (or Units)
Purchased (a)(b)AveragePrice Paid per Share (or Unit)(c)TotalNumberofShares (orUnits)PurchasedasPart ofPubliclyAnnouncedPlans or Programs (d)MaximumNumber(orApproximateDollarValue)ofShares (or Units) that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or ProgramsJanuary1 - January 31, 201514,092$46.14--February1 - February 28,2015 2,40041.94--March1 - March 31, 2015 377,36942.07--Total393,861$42.21--(a) Included in January and February were 16,492 shares of Ameren common stock purchased in open-market transactions pursuant to Ameren's 2014 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan in satisfaction of Ameren's obligations for Ameren board of directors' compensation awards. The remaining shares of Ameren common stock were purchased in open-market transactions pursuant to Ameren's 2014 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan in satisfaction of Ameren's obligation to distribute shares of common stock for vested performance units. Ameren does not have any publicly announced equity securities repurchase plans or programs.Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois did not purchase equity securities reportable under Item703 of Regulation S-K during the period from January 1, 2015, to March31, 2015.
61ITEM6. EXHIBITS. The documents listed below are being filed or have previously been filed on behalf of the Ameren Companies and are incorporated herein by reference from the documents indicated and made a part hereof. Exhibits not identified as previously filed are filed herewith.
ExhibitDesignationRegistrant(s)
Nature of Exhibit Previously Filed as Exhibit to:
Material Contracts 10.1Ameren Consulting Agreement between Charles D. Naslund and Ameren Services Company, dated March 2, 2015 Statement re: Computation of Ratios 12.1AmerenAmeren's Statement of Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges 12.2AmerenMissouriAmeren Missouri's Statement of Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed
Charges and Combined Fixed Charges and Preferred Stock Dividend
Requirements 12.3Ameren IllinoisAmeren Illinois' Statement of Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges
and Combined Fixed Charges and Preferred Stock Dividend Requirements Rule 13a-14(a) / 15d-14(a) Certifications 31.1AmerenRule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Principal Executive Officer of Ameren 31.2AmerenRule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Principal Financial Officer of Ameren 31.3AmerenMissouriRule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Principal Executive Officer of Ameren
Missouri31.4Ameren MissouriRule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Principal Financial Officer of Ameren
Missouri31.5Ameren IllinoisRule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Principal Executive Officer of Ameren
Illinois31.6Ameren IllinoisRule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Principal Financial Officer of Ameren
IllinoisSection 1350 Certifications 32.1AmerenSection 1350 Certification of Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer of Ameren 32.2Ameren MissouriSection 1350 Certification of Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial
Officer of Ameren Missouri 32.3Ameren IllinoisSection 1350 Certification of Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial
Officer of Ameren Illinois Interactive Data Files101.INSAmeren Companies XBRL Instance Document101.SCHAmeren Companies XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document101.CALAmeren Companies XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document101.LABAmeren Companies XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document101.PREAmeren Companies XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document101.DEFAmeren Companies XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition DocumentThe file number references for the Ameren Companies' filings with the SEC are: Ameren, 1-14756; Ameren Missouri, 1-2967; and Ameren Illinois, 1-3672.
Each registrant hereby undertakes to furnish to the SEC upon request a copy of any long-term debt instrument not listed above that such registrant has not filed as an exhibit pursuant to the exemption provided by Item601(b)(4)(iii)(A) of Regulation S-K.
62SIGNATURESPursuant to the requirements of the Exchange Act, each registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized. The signature for each undersigned company shall be deemed to relate only to matters having reference to such company or its subsidiaries.AMEREN CORPORATION (Registrant)
/s/ Martin J. Lyons, Jr.Martin J. Lyons, Jr.Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)UNION ELECTRIC COMPANY (Registrant)
/s/ Martin J. Lyons, Jr.Martin J. Lyons, Jr.Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)AMEREN ILLINOIS COMPANY (Registrant)
/s/ Martin J. Lyons, Jr.Martin J. Lyons, Jr.Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)Date: May 11, 2015 Exhibit 12.1 Ameren Corporation Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges (Thousands of Dollars, Except Ratios)
Three Months Ended March 31, 2015Earnings available for fixed charges, as defined:
Net income from continuing operations attributable to Ameren Corporation$107,954Income from equity investee(88)Tax expense based on income 65,804Fixed charges excluding subsidiary preferred stock dividends tax adjustment (a)94,366Earnings available for fixed charges, as defined$268,036Fixed charges, as defined:
Interest expense on short-term and long-term debt (a)$85,366Estimated interest cost within rental expense 1,901Amortization of net debt premium, discount, and expenses 5,488Subsidiary preferred stock dividends 1,611Adjust subsidiary preferred stock dividends to pretax basis 1,004Total fixed charges, as defined$95,370Consolidated ratio of earnings to fixed charges 2.81(a) Includes net interest related to uncertain tax positions.
Exhibit 12.2 Union Electric Company Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges and Combined Fixed Charges and Preferred Stock Dividend Requirements (Thousands of Dollars, Except Ratios)
Three Months Ended March 31, 2015Earnings available for fixed charges, as defined:
Net income
$42,353Tax expense based on income 25,838Fixed charges (a)58,399Earnings available for fixed charges, as defined
$126,590Fixed charges, as defined:
Interest expense on short-term and long-term debt (a)$55,810Estimated interest cost within rental expense 930Amortization of net debt premium, discount, and expenses 1,659Total fixed charges, as defined
$58,399Ratio of earnings to fixed charges 2.17Earnings required for combined fixed charges and preferred stock dividends:
Preferred stock dividends
$855Adjustment to pretax basis 522$1,377Combined fixed charges and preferred stock dividend requirements
$59,776Ratio of earnings to combined fixed charges and preferred stock dividend requirements 2.12(a) Includes net interest related to uncertain tax positions.
Exhibit 12.3 Ameren Illinois Company Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges and Combined Fixed Charges and Preferred Stock Dividend Requirements (Thousands of Dollars, Except Ratios)
Three Months Ended March 31, 2015Earnings available for fixed charges, as defined:
Net income$54,230Tax expense based on income 34,598Fixed charges (a)34,939Earnings available for fixed charges, as defined$123,767Fixed charges, as defined:
Interest expense on short-term and long-term debt (a)$30,426Estimated interest cost within rental expense 961Amortization of net debt premium, discount, and expenses 3,552Total fixed charges, as defined$34,939Ratio of earnings to fixed charges 3.54Earnings required for combined fixed charges and preferred stock dividends:
Preferred stock dividends
$756Adjustment to pretax basis 482$1,238Combined fixed charges and preferred stock dividend requirements$36,177Ratio of earnings to combined fixed charges and preferred stock dividend requirements 3.42(a) Includes net interest related to uncertain tax positions.
Exhibit 31.1RULE 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) CERTIFICATIONOF PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF AMEREN CORPORATION(required by Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002) I, Warner L. Baxter, certify that: 1. I have reviewed this report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2015 of Ameren Corporation;
- 2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not
misleading with respect to the period covered by this report; 3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the
periods presented in this report; 4. The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its
consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period
in which this report is being prepared;b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of
financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles;c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the
period covered by this report based on such evaluation; andd) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control
over financial reporting; and 5. The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or
persons performing the equivalent functions):
a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process,
summarize and report financial information; andb) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.Date: May 11, 2015
/s/ Warner L. BaxterWarner L. BaxterChairman, President and Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer)
Exhibit 31.2RULE 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) CERTIFICATIONOF PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL OFFICER OF AMEREN CORPORATION(required by Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002) I, Martin J. Lyons, Jr., certify that: 1. I have reviewed this report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2015 of Ameren Corporation;
- 2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not
misleading with respect to the period covered by this report; 3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the
periods presented in this report; 4. The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its
consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period
in which this report is being prepared;b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of
financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles;c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the
period covered by this report based on such evaluation; andd) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control
over financial reporting; and 5. The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or
persons performing the equivalent functions):a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process,
summarize and report financial information; andb) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.Date: May 11, 2015
/s/ Martin J. Lyons, Jr.Martin J. Lyons, Jr.Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)
Exhibit 31.3RULE 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) CERTIFICATIONOF PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF UNION ELECTRIC COMPANY (required by Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002) I, Michael L. Moehn, certify that: 1. I have reviewed this report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2015 of UnionElectric Company; 2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not
misleading with respect to the period covered by this report; 3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the
periods presented in this report; 4. The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its
consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period
in which this report is being prepared;b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of
financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles;c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the
period covered by this report based on such evaluation; andd) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control
over financial reporting; and 5. The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or
persons performing the equivalent functions):a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process,
summarize and report financial information; andb) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.Date: May 11, 2015
/s/ Michael L. Moehn Michael L. Moehn Chairman and President (Principal Executive Officer)
Exhibit 31.4RULE 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) CERTIFICATIONOF PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL OFFICER OF UNION ELECTRIC COMPANY (required by Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002) I, Martin J. Lyons, Jr., certify that: 1. I have reviewed this report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2015 of UnionElectric Company; 2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not
misleading with respect to the period covered by this report; 3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the
periods presented in this report; 4. The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its
consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period
in which this report is being prepared;b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of
financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles;c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the
period covered by this report based on such evaluation; andd) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control
over financial reporting; and 5. The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or
persons performing the equivalent functions):a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process,
summarize and report financial information; andb) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.Date: May 11, 2015
/s/ Martin J. Lyons, Jr.Martin J. Lyons, Jr.Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)
Exhibit 31.5RULE 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) CERTIFICATIONOF PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF AMEREN ILLINOIS COMPANY (required by Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002) I, Richard J. Mark, certify that: 1. I have reviewed this report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2015 of Ameren Illinois Company; 2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not
misleading with respect to the period covered by this report; 3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the
periods presented in this report; 4. The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its
consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period
in which this report is being prepared;b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of
financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles;c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the
period covered by this report based on such evaluation; andd) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control
over financial reporting; and 5. The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or
persons performing the equivalent functions):a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process,
summarize and report financial information; andb) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.Date: May 11, 2015
/s/ Richard J. Mark Richard J. Mark Chairman and President (Principal Executive Officer)
Exhibit 31.6RULE 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) CERTIFICATIONOF PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL OFFICER OF AMEREN ILLINOIS COMPANY (required by Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002) I, Martin J. Lyons, Jr., certify that: 1. I have reviewed this report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2015 of Ameren Illinois Company; 2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not
misleading with respect to the period covered by this report; 3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the
periods presented in this report; 4. The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its
consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period
in which this report is being prepared;b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of
financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles;c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the
period covered by this report based on such evaluation; andd) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control
over financial reporting; and 5. The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or
persons performing the equivalent functions):a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process,
summarize and report financial information; andb) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.Date: May 11, 2015
/s/ Martin J. Lyons, Jr.Martin J. Lyons, Jr.Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)
Exhibit 32.1SECTION 1350 CERTIFICATION OF THE PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICER AND THE PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL OFFICER OFAMEREN CORPORATION (required by Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002)In connection with the report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2015 of AmerenCorporation (the"Registrant") as filed by the Registrant with the Securities and Exchange Commission onthe date hereof (the "Form 10-Q"), each undersigned officer of the Registrant does hereby certify, pursuant to 18U.S.C. §1350, as adopted pursuant to §906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:(1) The Form 10-Q fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (15U.S.C. 78m or 78o(d)); and(2) The information contained in the Form 10-Q fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Registrant.Date: May 11, 2015
/s/ Warner L. BaxterWarner L. BaxterChairman, President and Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer)
/s/ Martin J. Lyons, Jr.Martin J. Lyons, Jr.Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)
Exhibit 32.2SECTION 1350 CERTIFICATION OF THE PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICERAND THE PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL OFFICER OFUNION ELECTRIC COMPANY (required by Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002)
In connection with the report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2015 of UnionElectric Company (the "Registrant") as filed by the Registrant with the Securities and Exchange Commissiononthe date hereof (the "Form 10-Q"), each undersigned officer of the Registrant does hereby certify, pursuant to 18U.S.C. §1350, as adopted pursuant to §906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:(1) The Form 10-Q fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (15U.S.C. 78m or 78o(d)); and(2) The information contained in the Form 10-Q fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Registrant.Date: May 11, 2015
/s/ Michael L. Moehn Michael L. Moehn Chairman and President (Principal Executive Officer)
/s/ Martin J. Lyons, Jr.Martin J. Lyons, Jr.Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)
Exhibit 32.3SECTION 1350 CERTIFICATION OF THE PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICERAND THE PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL OFFICER OFAMEREN ILLINOIS COMPANY (required by Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002)In connection with the report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2015 of Ameren Illinois Company (the "Registrant") as filed by the Registrant with the Securities and Exchange Commission onthe date hereof (the "Form 10-Q"), each undersigned officer of the Registrant does herebycertify, pursuant to 18U.S.C. §1350, as adopted pursuant to §906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:(1) The Form 10-Q fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (15U.S.C. 78m or 78o(d)); and(2) The information contained in the Form 10-Q fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Registrant.Date: May 11, 2015
/s/ Richard J. Mark Richard J. Mark Chairman and President (Principal Executive Officer)
/s/ Martin J. Lyons, Jr.Martin J. Lyons, Jr.Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer) to ULNRC-06272
10-Q FILED PERIOD 3/31/2015 UNITED STATESSECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSIONWashington, D.C. 20549 FORM 10-Q Quarterly report pursuant to Section13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 for the Quarterly Period Ended March 31, 2015 ORTransition report pursuant to Section13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
for the transition period from to Commission
File Number Exactnameofregistrantasspecifiedinitscharter;
State of Incorporation; Address and Telephone Number IRS Employer
Identification No.
1-14756Ameren Corporation43-1723446(Missouri Corporation) 1901 Chouteau Avenue St. Louis, Missouri 63103 (314) 621-3222 1-2967Union Electric Company43-0559760(Missouri Corporation) 1901 Chouteau Avenue St. Louis, Missouri 63103 (314) 621-3222 1-3672Ameren Illinois Company37-0211380(Illinois Corporation) 6 Executive Drive Collinsville, Illinois 62234 (618) 343-8150 Indicate by check mark whether the registrants: (1)have filed all reports required to be filed by Section13 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 reports), and (2)have been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.
Ameren CorporationYesNoUnion Electric CompanyYesNoAmeren Illinois CompanyYesNoIndicate by check mark whether each registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate website, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).
Ameren CorporationYesNoUnion Electric CompanyYesNoAmeren Illinois CompanyYesNoIndicate by check mark whether each registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company. See definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer" and "smaller reporting company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
LargeAccelerated FilerAccelerated FilerNon-Accelerated FilerSmallerReporting CompanyAmeren Corporation Union Electric Company Ameren Illinois Company Indicate by check mark whether each registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
Ameren CorporationYesNoUnion Electric CompanyYesNoAmeren Illinois CompanyYesNoThe number of shares outstanding of each registrant's classes of common stock as of April 30, 2015, was as follows:
Ameren Corporation Common stock, $0.01 par value per share - 242,634,798 Union Electric Company Common stock, $5 par value per share, held by Ameren Corporation - 102,123,834 Ameren Illinois Company Common stock, no par value, held by Ameren
Corporation - 25,452,373
______________________________________________________________________________________________________This combined Form 10-Q is separately filed by Ameren Corporation, Union Electric Company, and Ameren Illinois Company. Each registrant hereto is filing on its own behalf all of the information contained in this quarterly report that relates to such registrant. Each
registrant hereto is not filing any information that does not relate to such registrant, and therefore makes no representation as to any such
information.
TABLE OF CONTENTS PageGlossary of Terms and Abbreviations Forward-looking StatementsPART I Financial Information Item1.Financial Statements (Unaudited)
Ameren Corporation Consolidated Statement of Income Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income Consolidated Balance Sheet Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows Union Electric Company (d/b/a Ameren Missouri)
Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income Balance Sheet Statement of Cash Flows Ameren Illinois Company (d/b/a Ameren Illinois)
Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income Balance Sheet Statement of Cash Flows Combined Notes to Financial Statements Item2.Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations Item3.Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk Item4.Controls and ProceduresPART II Other Information
Item1.Legal Proceedings Item1A.Risk Factors Item2.Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds Item6.ExhibitsSignaturesThis report contains "forward-looking" statements within the meaning of Section21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements should be read with the cautionary statements and important factors under the heading "Forward-looking Statements." Forward-looking statements are all statements other than statements of historical fact, including those statements that
are identified by the use of the words "anticipates," "estimates," "expects," "intends," "plans," "predicts," "projects," and similar expressions.
11333456778910101112134258596060606062 1GLOSSARY OF TERMS AND ABBREVIATIONSWe use the words "our," "we" or "us" with respect to certain information that relates to Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois, collectively. When appropriate, subsidiaries of Ameren
Corporation are named specifically as their various business
activities are discussed. Refer to the Form 10-K for a complete
listing of glossary terms and abbreviations. Only new or
significantly changed terms and abbreviations are included below.Form 10-K - The combined Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014, filed by the Ameren Companies
with the SEC.
Net shared benefits - The value of the energy savings that are shared by Ameren Missouri and its customers under the MEEIA,
net of the program costs to achieve those energy savings. FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS Statements in this report not based on historical facts are considered "forward-looking" and, accordingly, involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those discussed. Although such forward-looking statements
have been made in good faith and are based on reasonable
assumptions, there is no assurance that the expected results will be achieved. These statements include (without limitation)
statements as to future expectations, beliefs, plans, strategies,
objectives, events, conditions, and financial performance. In
connection with the "safe harbor" provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, we are providing this
cautionary statement to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated.
The following factors, in addition to those discussed under Risk
Factors in the Form 10-K, and elsewhere in this report and in our other filings with the SEC, could cause actual results to differ
materially from management expectations suggested in such
forward-looking statements:* regulatory, judicial, or legislative actions, including changes in regulatory policies and ratemaking determinations, such as the MoPSC's April 2015 electric rate order; Ameren Missouri's December 2014 MEEIA filing; Ameren Illinois'
April 2015 annual electric delivery service formula update filing; Ameren Illinois' January 2015 natural gas delivery
service rate case filing; a settlement agreement requiring FERC approval for an Ameren Illinois electric transmission
rate refund and a prospective reduction to common equity
for ratemaking purposes; the complaint cases filed with the
FERC seeking a reduction in the allowed base return on common equity under the MISO tariff; and future regulatory,
judicial, or legislative actions that seek to change regulatory
recovery mechanisms;* the effect of Ameren Illinois participating in a performance-based formula ratemaking process under the IEIMA, including the direct relationship between Ameren Illinois'
return on common equity and 30-year United States Treasury bond yields, the related financial commitments required by the IEIMA, and the resulting uncertain impact on
the financial condition, results of operations, and liquidity of
Ameren Illinois;* our ability to align our overall spending, both operating and capital, with regulatory frameworks established by our
regulators in an attempt to earn our allowed return on equity;
- the effects of increased competition in the future due to, among other factors, deregulation of certain aspects of our
business at either the state or federal level;* changes in laws and other governmental actions, including monetary, fiscal, tax, and energy policies;* the effects on demand for our services resulting from technological advances, including advances in customer energy efficiency and distributed generation sources, which
generate electricity at the site of consumption;* the effectiveness of Ameren Missouri's customer energy efficiency programs, and the related amount of any net
shared benefits and performance incentive earned under the current and proposed MEEIA plans;* the timing of increasing capital expenditure and operating expense requirements and our ability to recover these costs
in a timely manner;* the cost and availability of fuel such as coal, natural gas, and enriched uranium used to produce electricity; the cost
and availability of purchased power and natural gas for
distribution; and the level and volatility of future market
prices for such commodities, including our ability to recover
the costs for such commodities and our customers'
tolerance for the related rate increases;* the effectiveness of our risk management strategies and our use of financial and derivative instruments;
- business and economic conditions, including their impact on key customers, interest rates, collection of our receivable
balances, and demand for our products;
- disruptions of the capital markets, deterioration in credit metrics of the Ameren Companies, or other events that may have an adverse effect on the cost or availability of capital,
including short-term credit and liquidity;* the impact of the adoption of new accounting guidance and the application of appropriate technical accounting rules and
guidance;
- actions of credit rating agencies and the effects of such actions;
- the impact of weather conditions and other natural phenomena on us and our customers, including the impact
of system outages;* the construction, installation, performance, and cost recovery of generation, transmission, and distribution
assets;* the effects of our increasing investment in electric transmission projects and uncertainty as to whether we will
achieve our expected returns in a timely fashion, if at all;* the extent to which Ameren Missouri prevails in its claim against an insurer in connection with the December 2005 breach of the upper reservoir at the Taum Sauk pumped-
storage hydroelectric energy center;* the extent to which Ameren Missouri is permitted by its regulators to recover in rates the investments it made in 2connection with additional nuclear generation at its Callaway energy center;* operation of Ameren Missouri's Callaway energy center, including planned and unplanned outages, and
decommissioning costs;
- the effects of strategic initiatives, including mergers, acquisitions and divestitures, and any related tax
implications;
- the resolution of tax positions for years under examination by the IRS;* the impact of current environmental regulations and new, more stringent, or changing requirements, including those
related to greenhouse gases, other emissions and
discharges, cooling water intake structures, CCR, and energy efficiency, that are enacted over time and that could
limit or terminate the operation of certain of our energy
centers, increase our costs or investment requirements,
result in an impairment of our assets, cause us to sell our
assets, reduce our customers' demand for electricity or natural gas, or otherwise have a negative financial effect;
- the impact of complying with renewable energy portfolio requirements in Missouri;* labor disputes, work force reductions, future wage and employee benefits costs, including changes in discount
rates, mortality tables, and returns on benefit plan assets;
- the inability of our counterparties to meet their obligations with respect to contracts, credit agreements, and financial
instruments;
- the cost and availability of transmission capacity for the energy generated by Ameren Missouri's energy centers or required to satisfy Ameren Missouri's energy sales;
- the inability of Dynegy and IPH to satisfy their indemnity and other obligations to Ameren in connection with the divestiture of New AER to IPH;* legal and administrative proceedings; and
- acts of sabotage, war, terrorism, cyber attacks, or other intentionally disruptive acts.
Given these uncertainties, undue reliance should not be placed on these forward-looking statements. Except to the extent
required by the federal securities laws, we undertake no
obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking
statements to reflect new information or future events.
3PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATIONITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
AMEREN CORPORATIONCONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME (Unaudited) (In millions, except per share amounts)
Three Months Ended March 31, 20152014Operating Revenues:
Electric$1,143$1,106Gas413488Total operating revenues 1,5561,594Operating Expenses:
Fuel206204Purchased power 139114Gas purchased for resale 236304Other operations and maintenance 401418Depreciation and amortization 193181Taxes other than income taxes 125127Total operating expenses 1,3001,348Operating Income 256246Other Income and Expense:
Miscellaneous income 1918Miscellaneous expense 119Total other income 89Interest Charges 8892Income Before Income Taxes 176163Income Taxes 6664Income from Continuing Operations 11099Loss from Discontinued Operations, Net of Taxes (Note 12)
-(1)Net Income 11098Less: Net Income from Continuing Operations Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests 22Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Ameren Corporation:
Continuing Operations 10897Discontinued Operations
-(1)Net Income Attributable to Ameren Corporation$108$96Earnings per Common Share - Basic:
Continuing Operations$0.45$0.40Discontinued Operations
--Earnings per Common Share - Basic$0.45$0.40Dividends per Common Share$0.41$0.40Average Common Shares Outstanding - Basic 242.6242.6The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
4AMEREN CORPORATIONCONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Unaudited) (In millions)
Three Months Ended March 31, 20152014Income from Continuing Operations$110$99Other Comprehensive Income from Continuing Operations, Net of Taxes
--Comprehensive Income from Continuing Operations 11099Less: Comprehensive Income from Continuing Operations Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests 22Comprehensive Income from Continuing Operations Attributable to Ameren Corporation 10897Loss from Discontinued Operations, Net of Taxes
-(1)Other Comprehensive Loss from Discontinued Operations, Net of Taxes
--Comprehensive Loss from Discontinued Operations Attributable to Ameren Corporation
-(1)Comprehensive Income Attributable to Ameren Corporation$108$96The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
5AMEREN CORPORATIONCONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET (Unaudited) (In millions, except per share amounts)
March 31, 2015December 31, 2014ASSETSCurrent Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents$6$5Accounts receivable - trade (less allowance for doubtful accounts of $23 and $21, respectively) 524423Unbilled revenue 212265Miscellaneous accounts and notes receivable 10081Materials and supplies 449524Current regulatory assets 265295Current accumulated deferred income taxes, net 331352Other current assets 9186Assets of discontinued operations (Note 12) 1515Total current assets 1,9932,046Property and Plant, Net 17,70017,424Investments and Other Assets:
Nuclear decommissioning trust fund 558549Goodwill411411Regulatory assets 1,5771,582Other assets 645664Total investments and other assets 3,1913,206TOTAL ASSETS$22,884$22,676LIABILITIES AND EQUITY Current Liabilities:
Current maturities of long-term debt$380$120Short-term debt 955714Accounts and wages payable 434711Taxes accrued 7946Interest accrued 9485Current regulatory liabilities 107106Other current liabilities 437434Liabilities of discontinued operations (Note 12) 3433Total current liabilities 2,5202,249Long-term Debt, Net 5,8606,120Deferred Credits and Other Liabilities:
Accumulated deferred income taxes, net 3,9643,923Accumulated deferred investment tax credits 6564Regulatory liabilities 1,8971,850Asset retirement obligations 500396Pension and other postretirement benefits 708705Other deferred credits and liabilities 524514Total deferred credits and other liabilities 7,6587,452Commitments and Contingencies (Notes 2, 9, 10 and 12)
Ameren Corporation Stockholders' Equity:
Common stock, $.01 par value, 400.0 shares authorized - shares outstanding of 242.6 22Other paid-in capital, principally premium on common stock 5,6005,617Retained earnings 1,1111,103Accumulated other comprehensive loss(9)(9)Total Ameren Corporation stockholders' equity 6,7046,713Noncontrolling Interests 142142Total equity 6,8466,855TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY$22,884$22,676The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
6AMEREN CORPORATION CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS (Unaudited) (In millions)
Three Months Ended March 31, 20152014Cash Flows From Operating Activities:
Net income
$110$98Loss from discontinued operations, net of taxes
-1Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization 195176Amortization of nuclear fuel 2324Amortization of debt issuance costs and premium/discounts 55Deferred income taxes and investment tax credits, net 5984Allowance for equity funds used during construction(5)(7)Stock-based compensation costs 89Other(11)(1)Changes in assets and liabilities:
Receivables(48)(86)Materials and supplies 75102Accounts and wages payable(215)(183)Taxes accrued 3318Regulatory assets and liabilities 62(40)Assets, other 1410Liabilities, other(33)(11)Pension and other postretirement benefits 2730Counterparty collateral, net(2)10Net cash provided by operating activities - continuing operations 297239Net cash provided by operating activities - discontinued operations 1-Net cash provided by operating activities 298239Cash Flows From Investing Activities:
Capital expenditures(417)(442)Nuclear fuel expenditures(17)(10)Purchases of securities - nuclear decommissioning trust fund(84)(186)Sales and maturities of securities - nuclear decommissioning trust fund 79182Proceeds from note receivable - Marketing Company 556Contributions to note receivable - Marketing Company(5)(65)Net cash used in investing activities - continuing operations(439)(465)Net cash provided by investing activities - discontinued operations
-152Net cash used in investing activities(439)(313)Cash Flows From Financing Activities:
Dividends on common stock(99)(97)Dividends paid to noncontrolling interest holders(2)(2)Short-term debt, net 241332Redemptions of long-term debt
-(163)Other2-Net cash provided by financing activities - continuing operations 14270Net cash used in financing activities - discontinued operations
--Net cash provided by financing activities 14270Net change in cash and cash equivalents 1(4)Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 530Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$6$26The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
7 UNION ELECTRIC COMPANY (d/b/a AMEREN MISSOURI)STATEMENT OF INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Unaudited) (In millions)
Three Months Ended March 31, 20152014Operating Revenues:
Electric$742$749Gas5868Total operating revenues 800817Operating Expenses:
Fuel206204Purchased power 3935Gas purchased for resale 3140Other operations and maintenance 211225Depreciation and amortization 118116Taxes other than income taxes 8078Total operating expenses 685698Operating Income 115119Other Income and Expense:
Miscellaneous income 1114Miscellaneous expense 34Total other income 810Interest Charges 5552Income Before Income Taxes 6877Income Taxes 2629Net Income 4248Other Comprehensive Income
--Comprehensive Income$42$48Net Income$42$48Preferred Stock Dividends 11Net Income Available to Common Stockholder$41$47The accompanying notes as they relate to Ameren Missouri are an integral part of these financial statements.
8UNION ELECTRIC COMPANY (d/b/a AMEREN MISSOURI)
BALANCE SHEET (Unaudited) (In millions, except per share amounts)
March 31, 2015December 31, 2014ASSETSCurrent Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents$1$1Accounts receivable - trade (less allowance for doubtful accounts of $8 and $8, respectively) 202190Accounts receivable - affiliates 365Unbilled revenue 120146Miscellaneous accounts and notes receivable 4235Materials and supplies 361347Current regulatory assets 158163Other current assets 7792Total current assets 9641,039Property and Plant, Net 10,95910,867Investments and Other Assets:
Nuclear decommissioning trust fund 558549Regulatory assets 687695Other assets 387391Total investments and other assets 1,6321,635TOTAL ASSETS$13,555$13,541LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY Current Liabilities:
Current maturities of long-term debt$380$120Borrowings from money pool 61-Short-term debt 14097Accounts and wages payable 182405Accounts payable - affiliates 5956Taxes accrued 6932Interest accrued 5158Current regulatory liabilities 3218Other current liabilities 114117Total current liabilities 1,088903Long-term Debt, Net 3,6193,879Deferred Credits and Other Liabilities:
Accumulated deferred income taxes, net 2,8212,806Accumulated deferred investment tax credits 6261Regulatory liabilities 1,1691,147Asset retirement obligations 493389Pension and other postretirement benefits 277274Other deferred credits and liabilities 3230Total deferred credits and other liabilities 4,8544,707Commitments and Contingencies (Notes 2, 8, 9 and 10)
Stockholders' Equity:
Common stock, $5 par value, 150.0 shares authorized - 102.1 shares outstanding 511511Other paid-in capital, principally premium on common stock 1,7841,569Preferred stock 8080Retained earnings 1,6191,892Total stockholders' equity 3,9944,052TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY$13,555$13,541The accompanying notes as they relate to Ameren Missouri are an integral part of these financial statements.
9UNION ELECTRIC COMPANY (d/b/a AMEREN MISSOURI)STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS (Unaudited) (In millions)
Three Months Ended March 31, 20152014Cash Flows From Operating Activities:
Net income
$42$48Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization 121112Amortization of nuclear fuel 2324Amortization of debt issuance costs and premium/discounts 22Deferred income taxes and investment tax credits, net 2130Allowance for equity funds used during construction(4)(7)Changes in assets and liabilities:
Receivables 602Materials and supplies(14)14Accounts and wages payable(171)(153)Taxes accrued 4030Regulatory assets and liabilities 27(28)Assets, other 35Liabilities, other(5)2Pension and other postretirement benefits 1215Net cash provided by operating activities 15796Cash Flows From Investing Activities:
Capital expenditures(145)(188)Nuclear fuel expenditures(17)(10)Purchases of securities - nuclear decommissioning trust fund(84)(186)Sales and maturities of securities - nuclear decommissioning trust fund 79182Other(2)(2)Net cash used in investing activities(169)(204)Cash Flows From Financing Activities:
Dividends on common stock(315)(77)Dividends on preferred stock(1)(1)Short-term debt, net 43290Money pool borrowings, net 61(105)Capital contribution from parent 224-Net cash provided by financing activities 12107Net change in cash and cash equivalents
-(1)Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 11Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$1$-The accompanying notes as they relate to Ameren Missouri are an integral part of these financial statements.
10 AMEREN ILLINOIS COMPANY (d/b/a AMEREN ILLINOIS)STATEMENT OF INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Unaudited) (In millions)
Three Months Ended March 31, 20152014Operating Revenues:
Electric$390$353Gas355421Total operating revenues 745774Operating Expenses:
Purchased power 10281Gas purchased for resale 205264Other operations and maintenance 202200Depreciation and amortization 7363Taxes other than income taxes 4346Total operating expenses 625654Operating Income 120120Other Income and Expense:
Miscellaneous income 73Miscellaneous expense 54Total other income (expense) 2(1)Interest Charges 3330Income Before Income Taxes 8989Income Taxes 3535Net Income 5454Other Comprehensive Loss, Net of Taxes:
Pension and other postretirement benefit plan activity, net of income taxes (benefit) of $(1) and $(1),
respectively(1)(1)Comprehensive Income$53$53Net Income$54$54Preferred Stock Dividends 11Net Income Available to Common Stockholder$53$53The accompanying notes as they relate to Ameren Illinois are an integral part of these financial statements.
11AMEREN ILLINOIS COMPANY (d/b/a AMEREN ILLINOIS)
BALANCE SHEET (Unaudited) (In millions)
March 31, 2015December 31, 2014ASSETSCurrent Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents$-$1Advances to money pool 33-Accounts receivable - trade (less allowance for doubtful accounts of $15 and $13, respectively) 304212Accounts receivable - affiliates 522Unbilled revenue 92119Miscellaneous accounts receivable 129Materials and supplies 88177Current regulatory assets 105129Current accumulated deferred income taxes, net 159160Other current assets 1315Total current assets 811844Property and Plant, Net 6,2726,165Investments and Other Assets:
Goodwill411411Regulatory assets 883883Other assets 7978Total investments and other assets 1,3731,372TOTAL ASSETS$8,456$8,381LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY Current Liabilities:
Short-term debt$-$32Borrowings from money pool
-15Accounts and wages payable 193207Accounts payable - affiliates 4950Taxes accrued 4117Interest accrued 4324Customer deposits 7677Mark-to-market derivative liabilities 4342Current environmental remediation 4652Current regulatory liabilities 6984Other current liabilities 100100Total current liabilities 660700Long-term Debt, Net 2,2412,241Deferred Credits and Other Liabilities:
Accumulated deferred income taxes, net 1,4211,408Regulatory liabilities 727703Pension and other postretirement benefits 278277Environmental remediation 200199Other deferred credits and liabilities 216192Total deferred credits and other liabilities 2,8422,779Commitments and Contingencies (Notes 2, 8 and 9)
Stockholders' Equity:
Common stock, no par value, 45.0 shares authorized - 25.5 shares outstanding
--Other paid-in capital 1,9801,980Preferred stock 6262Retained earnings 664611Accumulated other comprehensive income 78Total stockholders' equity 2,7132,661TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY$8,456$8,381The accompanying notes as they relate to Ameren Illinois are an integral part of these financial statements.
12AMEREN ILLINOIS COMPANY (d/b/a AMEREN ILLINOIS)STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS (Unaudited) (In millions)
Three Months Ended March 31, 20152014Cash Flows From Operating Activities:
Net income
$54$54Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization 7262Amortization of debt issuance costs and premium/discounts 43Deferred income taxes and investment tax credits, net 1336Other(3)(2)Changes in assets and liabilities:
Receivables(41)(94)Materials and supplies 8988Accounts and wages payable(11)14Taxes accrued 24(1)Regulatory assets and liabilities 33(11)Assets, other 65Liabilities, other 416Pension and other postretirement benefits 1110Counterparty collateral, net(1)12Net cash provided by operating activities 254192Cash Flows From Investing Activities:
Capital expenditures(174)(215)Money pool advances, net(33)-Other-1Net cash used in investing activities(207)(214)Cash Flows From Financing Activities:
Dividends on preferred stock(1)(1)Short-term debt, net(32)-Money pool borrowings, net(15)186Redemptions of long-term debt
-(163)Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities(48)22Net change in cash and cash equivalents(1)-Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 11Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$-$1The accompanying notes as they relate to Ameren Illinois are an integral part of these financial statements.
13AMEREN CORPORATION (Consolidated)UNION ELECTRIC COMPANY (d/b/a Ameren Missouri)
AMEREN ILLINOIS COMPANY (d/b/a Ameren Illinois)COMBINED NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
March31, 2015 NOTE 1 - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING
POLICIESGeneralAmeren, headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, is a public utility holding company under PUHCA 2005, administered by the FERC. Ameren's primary assets are its equity interests in its subsidiaries, including Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois.
Ameren's subsidiaries are separate, independent legal entities
with separate businesses, assets, and liabilities. Dividends on Ameren's common stock and the payment of expenses by
Ameren depend on distributions made to it by its subsidiaries.
Ameren's principal subsidiaries are listed below. Also see the Glossary of Terms and Abbreviations at the front of this report
and in the Form 10-K.* Union Electric Company, doing business as Ameren Missouri, operates a rate-regulated electric generation,
transmission, and distribution business and a rate-regulated
natural gas transmission and distribution business in
- Ameren Illinois Company, doing business as Ameren Illinois, operates rate-regulated electric and natural gas transmission
and distribution businesses in Illinois.
Ameren has various other subsidiaries that conduct activities such as the provision of shared services. Ameren also has a subsidiary, ATXI, that operates a FERC rate-regulated electric transmission business. ATXI is developing MISO-approved
electric transmission projects, including the Illinois Rivers, Spoon River, and Mark Twain projects. Ameren is also pursuing reliability projects within Ameren Missouri's and Ameren Illinois' service
territories as well as competitive electric transmission investment
opportunities outside of these territories, including investments
outside of MISO.
The operating results, assets, and liabilities of the Elgin, Gibson City, Grand Tower, Meredosia, and Hutsonville energy
centers have been presented separately as discontinued
operations for all periods presented in this report. Unless otherwise stated, these notes to Ameren's financial statements
exclude discontinued operations for all periods presented. See Note 12 - Divestiture Transactions and Discontinued Operations
in this report for additional information regarding the discontinued operations presentation and Note 16 - Divestiture Transactions
and Discontinued Operations under Part II, Item 8, of the Form 10-K for additional information regarding Ameren's divestiture of New AER in December 2013.The financial statements of Ameren are prepared on a consolidated basis, and therefore include the accounts of its majority-owned subsidiaries. All intercompany transactions have been eliminated. Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois have no
subsidiaries, and therefore their financial statements are not prepared on a consolidated basis. All tabular dollar amounts are
in millions, unless otherwise indicated.Our accounting policies conform to GAAP. Our financial statements reflect all adjustments (which include normal, recurring adjustments) that are necessary, in our opinion, for a fair presentation of our results. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to
make certain estimates and assumptions. Such estimates and assumptions affect reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the
disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the dates of
financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reported periods. Actual results could differ from those estimates. The results of operations of an interim
period may not give a true indication of results that may be expected for a full year. These financial statements should be
read in conjunction with the financial statements and the notes
thereto included in the Form 10-K.
Asset Retirement Obligations The following table provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending carrying amount of AROs for the three months ended March 31, 2015:
AmerenMissouriAmerenIllinois(a)AmerenBalance at December31, 2014$389$7$396 Accretion in 2015 (b)5(c)5Change in estimates (d)99(c)99Balance at March31, 2015$493$7$500(a) Included in "Other deferred credits and liabilities" on the balance sheet.(b) Accretion expense was recorded as an increase to regulatory assets at Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois.(c) Less than $1 million.
(d) The ARO increase also resulted in a corresponding increase recorded to "Property and Plant, Net." Ameren Missouri's estimates related to its
Callaway energy center decommissioning costs changed to reflect
increased costs from the 2015 cost study and funding analysis, extension of
the estimated operating life until 2044, and a reduction in the discount rate
assumption. See Note 10 - Callaway Energy Center for additional
information. In addition, during the second quarter of 2015, Ameren and Ameren Missouri each expect to record an increase to their ARO related to retirement costs for CCR storage facilities of between
$90 million and $120 million, with a corresponding increase to "Property and Plant, Net." This increase is a result of the EPA's
new regulations for the management and disposal of CCR, which were published in April 2015. See Note 9 - Commitments and
Contingencies in this report for additional information.
14Stock-based CompensationA summary of nonvested performance share units at March31, 2015, and changes during the three months ended March 31, 2015, under the 2006 Incentive Plan and the 2014 Incentive Plan are presented below:
Number of Performance Share Units Weighted-average Fair Value Per Performance Share Unit Nonvested at January 1, 20151,162,377$
35.35Granted(a)566,33252.88Forfeitures(1,944)34.75Vested(b)(68,411)47.88Nonvested at March 31, 20151,658,354$
40.82(a) Performance share units granted to certain executive and nonexecutive officers and other eligible employees in 2015 under the 2014 Incentive Plan.(b) Performance share units vested due to the attainment of retirement eligibility by certain employees. Actual shares issued for retirement-eligible employees will vary depending on actual performance over the three-year measurement period.
The fair value of each performance share unit awarded in 2015 under the 2014 Incentive Plan was determined to be $52.88, which was based on Ameren's closing common share price of $46.13 at December31, 2014, and lattice simulations.
Lattice simulations are used to estimate expected share payout based on Ameren's total stockholder return for a three-year
performance period relative to the designated peer group beginning January1, 2015. The simulations can produce a
greater fair value for the performance share unit than the
applicable closing common share price because they include the
weighted payout scenarios in which an increase in the share price has occurred. The significant assumptions used to calculate fair value also included a three-year risk-free rate of 1.10%,
volatility of 12% to 18% for the peer group, and Ameren's
attainment of a three-year average earnings per share threshold
during the performance period.Excise TaxesAmeren Missouri and Ameren Illinois collect certain excise taxes from customers that are levied on the sale or distribution of natural gas and electricity. Excise taxes are levied on Ameren Missouri's electric and natural gas businesses and on Ameren Illinois' natural gas business and are recorded gross in
"Operating Revenues - Electric," "Operating Revenues - Gas" and "Operating Expenses - Taxes other than income taxes" on
the statement of income or the statement of income and
comprehensive income. Excise taxes for electric service in Illinois
are levied on the customer and are therefore not included in Ameren Illinois' revenues and expenses. The following table
presents excise taxes recorded in "Operating Revenues -
Electric," "Operating Revenues - Gas" and "Operating Expenses -
Taxes other than income taxes" for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014:
Three Months20152014Ameren Missouri$34$34Ameren Illinois 2326Ameren$57$60Uncertain Tax Positions The following table presents the total amount of reserves for unrecognized tax benefits (detriments) related to uncertain tax positions as of March31, 2015, and December31, 2014: March 31, 2015December 31, 2014 Ameren$53$54Ameren Missouri(1)-Ameren Illinois(1)(1)The following table presents the amount of reserves for unrecognized tax benefits, included in the table above, related to
uncertain tax positions that, if recognized, would impact results of operations as of March31, 2015, and December 31, 2014:March 31, 2015December 31, 2014 Ameren$52$52Ameren Missouri(1)-Ameren Illinois(1)(1)In March 2015, a settlement was reached with the IRS for tax year 2012.Since there were no uncertain tax positions
related to the 2012 tax year as of December 31, 2014, this
settlement did not impact the amount of recorded unrecognized
tax benefits.Ameren's federal income tax return for the tax year 2013 is currently under examination by the IRS. It is reasonably possible
that a settlement will be reached with the IRS in the next 12 months, which will result in a reduction of Ameren's unrecognized tax benefits of $53 million related to discontinued operations.
In addition, it is reasonably possible that other events will occur during the next 12 months that would cause the total amount of our unrecognized tax benefits to fluctuate. However,
other than as described above, we do not believe any such
fluctuations would be material to our results of operations, financial position, or liquidity.
State income tax returns are generally subject to examination for a period of three years after filing. We do not 15currently have material state income tax issues under examination, administrative appeal, or litigation. The state impact
of any federal changes remains subject to examination by various
states for a period of up to one year after formal notification to the
states.Earnings Per ShareThere were no material differences between Ameren's basic and diluted earnings per share amounts for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014. The assumed settlement of
dilutive performance share units had an immaterial impact on
earnings per share.
Accounting and Reporting Developments Below is a summary of recently adopted or issued authoritative accounting guidance relevant to the Ameren Companies.
Presentation of Debt Issuance CostsIn April 2015, FASB issued authoritative accounting guidance to simplify the presentation of debt issuance costs. The guidance requires debt issuance costs to be presented in the balance sheet as a reduction to the associated debt liability.
Currently, debt issuance costs are presented as a component of "Other assets" on the Ameren Companies' balance sheets. The guidance will be effective for the Ameren Companies in the first quarter of 2016 and applied retrospectively. The guidance will not affect the Ameren Companies' results of operations, financial position, or liquidity, as this guidance is presentation-related only.NOTE 2 - RATE AND REGULATORY MATTERS Below is a summary of updates to significant regulatory proceedings and related lawsuits. See also Note 2 - Rate and Regulatory Matters under Part II, Item8, of the Form 10-K. We
are unable to predict theultimate outcome of these matters, the
timing of the final decisions of the various agencies and courts, or
the impact on our results of operations, financial position, or liquidity.
Missouri 2015 Electric Rate OrderIn April 2015, the MoPSC issued an order approving an increase in Ameren Missouri's annual revenues for electric service of$122 million, including $109 million related to the
increase in net energy costs above the net energy costs included in base rates previously authorized by the MoPSC. The remaining increase of $13 million approved by the order was for non-energy costs. The revenue increase was based on a 9.53%return on common equity, a capital structure composed of51.8%common equity, and a rate base of$7.0 billion to reflect
investments through December 31, 2014. Rate changes consistent with the order will become effective on May 30, 2015. The order approved Ameren Missouri's request for continued use of the FAC; however, it changed the FAC to exclude substantially all transmission charges and revenues. In
addition, the order did not approve the continued use of the
regulatory tracking mechanisms for storm costs and vegetation management and infrastructure inspection costs. The order did
approve the continued use of the regulatory tracking mechanisms
for pension and postretirement benefits, renewable energy
standard cost, solar rebates, and uncertain tax positions that the
MoPSC authorized in earlier electric rate orders.In addition, the order approved a reduction to Noranda's electric rates with an offsetting increase in electric rates for Ameren Missouri's other customers. The rate shift will be revenue neutral to Ameren Missouri. Ameren Missouri supplies electricity to Noranda's aluminum smelter in southeast Missouri under a 15-
year agreement, which is subject to termination as early as May 31, 2020, and on each May 31 thereafter, upon at least five years notice by either party. Termination of the agreement by Ameren
Missouri would require MoPSC approval.
Ameren Missouri will request a rehearing on several aspects of the MoPSC's order, including the allowed return on common
equity and the elimination of recovery of changes in transmission charges and revenues through the FAC. The MoOPC and the
intervenor parties in this case may similarly seek rehearing or subsequently appeal any aspect of the order. Ameren Missouri
cannot predict whether any such application for rehearing or
appeal will be filed, or the outcome if so filed.Accounting Authority Order In November 2013, the MoPSC issued an accounting authority order that allowed Ameren Missouri to seek recovery of fixed costs totaling $36 million that were not previously recovered
from Noranda as a result of the loss of load caused by a severe 2009 ice storm in a future electric rate case. In its April 2015 electric rate order, the MoPSC did not approve recovery of these fixed costs. Ameren Missouri had not recorded any revenue
associated with this accounting authority order and will not record a charge to earnings based on the outcome of the MoPSC's April 2015 electric rate order. MEEIA FilingIn December 2014, Ameren Missouri filed an energy efficiency plan with the MoPSC under the MEEIA. This filing proposed a three-year plan that includes a portfolio of customer energy efficiency programs along with a cost recovery
mechanism. If the plan is approved, beginning in January 2016, Ameren Missouri intends to invest $135 million over three years in the proposed customer energy efficiency programs. Ameren Missouri requested continued use of a MEEIA rider, which allows it to collect from or refund to customers any difference in the
actual amounts incurred and the amounts collected from customers for the MEEIA program costs and net shared benefits.
In addition, Ameren Missouri requested incentives to earn
additional revenues by achieving certain customer energy efficiency goals, including $25 million if 100% of its customer energy efficiency goals are achieved during the three-year period. Ameren Missouri must achieve at least 70% of its 16customer energy efficiency goals before it earns any incentive award.Illinois IEIMAUnder the provisions of the IEIMA, Ameren Illinois' electric delivery service rates are subject to an annual revenue requirement reconciliation to its actual costs.Throughout each year, Ameren Illinois records a regulatory asset or a regulatory
liability and a corresponding increase or decrease to operating revenues for any differences between the revenue requirement
reflected in customer rates for that year and its estimate of the
probable increase or decrease in the revenue requirement
expected to ultimately be approved by the ICC based on that year's actual costs incurred. As of March31, 2015, Ameren Illinois had recorded regulatory assets of $8 million, $101 million, and $52 million, to reflect its expected 2015, 2014 and 2013
revenue requirement reconciliation adjustments, with interest, respectively. Ameren Illinois is collecting the 2013 revenue
requirement reconciliation adjustment from customers during
2015.In April 2015, Ameren Illinois filed with the ICC its annual electric delivery service formula rate update to establish the
revenue requirement used for 2016 rates. Pending ICC approval, Ameren Illinois' update filing will result in a $110 million increase in Ameren Illinois' electric delivery service revenue requirement, beginning in January 2016. This update reflects an increase to
the annual formula rate based on 2014 actual costs and
expected net plant additions for 2015, an increase to include the
2014 revenue requirement reconciliation adjustment, and a
decrease for the conclusion of the 2013 revenue requirement
reconciliation adjustment, which will be fully collected from
customers in 2015. In April 2015, the IEIMA's formula rate framework was extended until the end of 2019, with further extensions possible
through 2022.
2015 Natural Gas Delivery Service Rate CaseIn January 2015, Ameren Illinois filed a request with the ICC seeking approval to increase its annual revenues for natural gas delivery service by $53 million. The request was based on a 10.25% return on common equity, a capital structure composed of 50% common equity, and a rate base of $1.2 billion. In an attempt to reduce regulatory lag, Ameren Illinois used a 2016
future test year in this proceeding. Included in the request was a
proposal to implement a decoupling rider mechanism for residential and small nonresidential customers. The decoupling
rider would ensure that changes in natural gas sales volumes do not affect Ameren Illinois' annual natural gas revenues for these
rate classes.A decision by the ICC in this proceeding is required by December 2015, with new rates expected to be effective in January 2016. Ameren Illinois cannot predict the level of any
delivery service rate changes the ICC may approve, whether the ICC will approve the decoupling rider, or whether any rate changes that may eventually be approved will be sufficient to enable Ameren Illinois to recover its costs and to earn a
reasonable return on investments when the rate changes go into effect.2013 Natural Gas Delivery Service Rate Order In December 2013, the ICC issued a rate order that approved an increase in Ameren Illinois' revenues for natural gas delivery service based on a 9.1% return on common equity. The rate changes became effective January 1, 2014. In March 2014, Ameren Illinois filed with the Appellate Court of the Fourth District
of Illinois an appeal of the allowed return on common equity included in the ICC's order. Ameren Illinois sought a 10.4% return on common equity in this rate case. A decision is expected in
2015.2015 ICC Purchased Power Reconciliation In January 2015, the ICC issued an order that approved Ameren Illinois' reconciliation of revenues collected under its purchased power rider mechanism and Ameren Illinois' related
cumulative power usage cost. In the first quarter of 2015, based on the January 2015 order, both Ameren and Ameren Illinois recorded a $15 million increase to electric revenues for the
recovery of this cumulative power usage cost from electric
customers.ATXI Transmission ProjectIn August 2014, ATXI made a filing with the ICC requesting a certificate of public convenience and necessity and project approval for the Spoon River project, a MISO-approved transmission line project located in northwest Illinois. A decision is expected from the ICC in 2015. A certificate of public convenience and necessity is required before ATXI can proceed
with right-of-way acquisition.
Federal Ameren Illinois Electric Transmission Rate Refund In July 2012, the FERC issued an order concluding that Ameren Illinois improperly included acquisition premiums, including goodwill, in determining the common equity used in its
electric transmission formula rate and thereby inappropriately
recovered a higher amount from its electric transmission customers. The order required Ameren Illinois to make refunds to
customers for such improperly included amounts.
Ameren Illinois submitted a refund report in November 2012, which concluded that no refund was warranted. Several
wholesale customers filed a protest with the FERC regarding that
conclusion. In June 2013, the FERC issued an order that rejected
Ameren Illinois' November 2012 refund report and provided
guidance as to the filing of a new refund report. In July 2013,
Ameren Illinois filed a revised refund report based on the guidance provided in the June 2013 order, which also concluded
that no refund was warranted. In June 2014, the FERC issued an 17order establishing settlement procedures and, if necessary, hearing procedures regarding Ameren Illinois' July 2013 refund
report. In March 2015, Ameren Illinois reached a settlement agreement with the wholesale customers that resolves the issues in this proceeding. The settlement agreement requires FERC
approval. Upon approval by the FERC, the settlement agreement will require Ameren Illinois to make refunds and payments of $8 million to transmission customers. It will also require Ameren
Illinois to take other actions, such as reducing common equity for
electric transmission ratemaking purposes on a prospective basis. There is no date by which the FERC must act with respect to the settlement agreement. Ameren Illinois estimates the maximum refund obligation through March 31, 2015, to be $23 million. Ameren Illinois' March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 balance sheets included an $8 million and a $7 million current liability, respectively, for its estimate of the probable refund to transmission customers. If Ameren Illinois were to determine that
a refund to its electric transmission customers in excess of the
amount already recorded is probable, an additional charge to
earnings would be recorded in the period in which that
determination was made.
FERC Complaint CasesCurrently, the FERC-allowed base return on common equity for MISO transmission owners is 12.38%. In November 2013, a customer group filed a complaint case with the FERC seeking a
reduction in the allowed base return on common equity for the
FERC-regulated MISO transmission rate base under the MISO tariff to 9.15%. The FERC scheduled the case for hearing
proceedings, requiring an initial decision to be issued no later than November 30, 2015. As the maximum FERC-allowed refund
period for the November 2013 complaint case ended in February
2015, another customer complaint case was filed in February 2015. The February 2015 complaint case seeks a reduction in
the allowed base return on common equity for the FERC-regulated MISO transmission rate base under the MISO tariff to
8.67%. In 2014, the FERC issued orders in a proceeding, in which the Ameren Companies were not involved, reducing the allowed
base return on common equity for New England transmission owners from 11.14% to 10.57%, with rate incentives allowed up to 11.74%. The FERC order in the New England transmission owners' case applied observable market data from October 2012
to March 2013 to determine the allowed base return on common equity. The evidence and the calculation used in the New England transmission owners' case may guide the FERC's decision in the MISO complaint cases discussed above. The
FERC calculation will establish the allowed base return on common equity, which specifies a unique time period for each
complaint case, and will require multiple inputs based on
observable market data specific to the utility industry and broader
macroeconomic data. In January 2015, the settlement judge for
the initial MISO complaint case ordered that July 13, 2015, be the cut-off date for the observable market data to be used in the calculation of the allowed base return on common equity.
Based on the information in these orders, Ameren and Ameren Illinois
recorded current liabilities on their respective balance sheets as
of March 31, 2015, and December 31, 2014, representing their estimate of the refunds from the refund effective date of
November 12, 2013, through the respective balance sheet date.
A 50 basis point reduction in the FERC-allowed return on common equity would reduce Ameren's and Ameren Illinois' 2015 earnings by an estimated $4 million and $2 million, respectively, based on 2015 projected rate base. Ameren Missouri did not
record a liability as of March 31, 2015, and does not expect that a
reduction in the FERC-allowed base return on common equity for
MISO transmission owners would be material to its results of operations, financial position, or liquidity.
Based on a November 2014 request, the FERC approved an incentive adder of up to 50 basis points on the allowed base return on common equity for our participation in an RTO. The incentive adder became effective on January 6, 2015. The FERC
also approved our request to defer collection of the incentive
adder until the issuance of the final order addressing the initial
MISO complaint case.Ameren Missouri Power Purchase Agreement with Entergy Beginning in 2005, the FERC issued a series of orders addressing a complaint filed in 2001 by the Louisiana Public Service Commission against Entergy and certain of its affiliates.
The complaint alleged unjust and unreasonable cost allocations.
As a result of the FERC orders, Entergy began billing Ameren
Missouri in 2007 for additional charges under a 165-megawatt power purchase agreement, which expired August31, 2009. In
May 2012, the FERC issued an order stating that Entergy should not have included additional charges to Ameren Missouri under the power purchase agreement. Pursuant to the order, in June 2012, Entergy paid Ameren Missouri $31 million. In November
2013, Entergy filed an appeal of the FERC's May 2012 order with the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. In March 2015, the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit upheld the FERC's May 2012 order.
Ameren Missouri believes the outstanding issues relating to its
power purchase agreement with Entergy have been resolved and
will not result in a charge to earnings.
Combined Construction and Operating LicenseIn 2008, Ameren Missouri filed an application with the NRC for a COL for a new nuclear unit at Ameren Missouri's existing Callaway County, Missouri, energy center site. In 2009, Ameren Missouri suspended its efforts to build a new nuclear unit at the Callaway site, and the NRC suspended review of the COL application. The suspended status of the COL application
currently extends through the end of 2015.Ameren Missouri estimates the total cost to obtain a COL for the Callaway site to be approximately $100 million. As of March31, 2015, Ameren Missouri had capitalized investments of
$69 million for the development of a new nuclear energy center.
Ameren is currently evaluating all potential nuclear technologies
in order to maintain an option for nuclear power in the future.
18All of Ameren Missouri's capitalized investments for the development of a new nuclear energy center will remain capitalized while management pursues options to maximize the value of its investment. If efforts to license additional nuclear generation are abandoned, if the NRC does not extend the COL application suspended status, or if management concludes it is
probable that the costs incurred will be disallowed in rates, a
charge to earnings would be recognized in the period in which
that determination is made.NOTE 3 - SHORT-TERM DEBT AND LIQUIDITYThe liquidity needs of the Ameren Companies are typically supported through the use of available cash, drawings under committed credit agreements, commercial paper issuances, or, in the case of Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois, short-term intercompany borrowings.The 2012 Missouri Credit Agreement and the 2012 Illinois Credit Agreement, both of which expire on December 11, 2019, were not utilized for direct borrowings during the three months ended March 31, 2015, but were used to support commercial paper issuances and to issue letters of credit. Based on letters of credit issued under the 2012 Credit Agreements, as well as commercial paper outstanding, the aggregate amount of credit capacity available under the 2012 Credit Agreements to Ameren (parent), Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois, collectively, at March31, 2015, was $1.1 billion.
Commercial PaperThe following table presents commercial paper outstanding at Ameren (parent), Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois as of March31, 2015, and December31, 2014.
March 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Ameren (parent)
$815$585Ameren Missouri 14097Ameren Illinois
-32Ameren Consolidated
$955$714The following table summarizes the commercial paper activity and relevant interest rates under Ameren's (parent), Ameren Missouri's, and Ameren Illinois' commercial paper programs for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014. Ameren Illinois established a commercial paper program in May 2014.
Ameren (parent)Ameren MissouriAmerenIllinoisAmerenConsolidated 2015Average daily commercial paper outstanding$691$151$
10$852Weighted-average interest rate0.55%0.49%0.44%0.53%Peak commercial paper during period (a)$815$243$
39$955Peak interest rate0.70%0.60%0.60%0.70%2014 Average daily commercial paper outstanding$339$200$
-$539Weighted-average interest rate0.45%0.45%-%0.45%Peak commercial paper during period (a)$452$290$
-$700Peak interest rate0.75%0.70%-%0.75%(a) The timing of peak commercial paper issuances varies by company, and therefore the peak amounts presented by company might not equal the Ameren Consolidated peak commercial paper issuances for the period.
Indebtedness Provisions and Other CovenantsThe information below is a summary of the Ameren Companies' compliance with indebtedness provisions and other covenants within the 2012 Credit Agreements. See Note 4 -
Short-term Debt and Liquidity under Part II, Item 8, in the Form
10-K for a detailed description of these provisions.The 2012 Credit Agreements contain nonfinancial covenants, including restrictions on the ability to incur liens, to transact with affiliates, to dispose of assets, to make investments in or transfer assets to its affiliates, and to merge with other entities. The 2012 Credit Agreements require each of Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois to maintain consolidated indebtedness of not more than 65% of its consolidated total
capitalization pursuant to a defined calculation set forth in the agreements. As of March31, 2015, the ratios of consolidated
indebtedness to total consolidated capitalization, calculated in accordance with the provisions of the 2012 Credit Agreements, were 51%, 50%, and 46%, for Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois, respectively. In addition, under the 2012 Illinois Credit Agreement and, by virtue of the cross-default provisions of the 2012 Missouri Credit Agreement, under the 2012 Missouri Credit Agreement, Ameren is required to maintain a ratio of
consolidated funds from operations plus interest expense to consolidated interest expense of at least 2.0 to 1.0. However, the
interest coverage requirement only applies at such times as 19Ameren does not have a senior long-term unsecured credit rating of at least Baa3 from Moody's or BBB- from S&P. As of March31, 2015, Ameren exceeded the rating requirements; therefore, the
interest coverage requirement was not applicable. Failure of a
borrower to satisfy a financial covenant constitutes an immediate default under the applicable 2012 Credit Agreement.The 2012 Credit Agreements contain default provisions that apply separately to each borrower; provided, however, that a default of Ameren Missouri or Ameren Illinois under the applicable 2012 Credit Agreement will also be deemed to constitute a default of Ameren under such agreement. Defaults include a
cross-default of such borrower under any other agreement
covering outstanding indebtedness of such borrower and certain
subsidiaries (other than project finance subsidiaries and nonmaterial subsidiaries) in excess of $75 million in the aggregate (including under the other 2012 Credit Agreement).
However, under the default provisions of the 2012 Credit Agreements, any default of Ameren under any 2012 Credit Agreement that results solely from a default of Ameren Missouri or Ameren Illinois thereunder does not result in a cross-default of Ameren under the other 2012 Credit Agreement. Further, the 2012 Credit Agreement default provisions provide that an Ameren default under any of the 2012 Credit Agreements does not constitute a default by Ameren Missouri or Ameren Illinois. None of the Ameren Companies' credit agreements or financing arrangements contain credit rating triggers that would
cause a default or acceleration of repayment of outstanding balances. The Ameren Companies were in compliance with the provisions and covenants of their credit agreements at March31,
2015.Money Pools Ameren has money pool agreements with and among its subsidiaries to coordinate and provide for certain short-term cash
and working capital requirements.Ameren Missouri, Ameren Illinois, and Ameren Services may participate in the utility money pool as both lenders and borrowers. Ameren may participate in the utility money pool only as a lender. Surplus internal funds are contributed to the utility money pool from participants. The primary sources of external funds for the utility money pool are the 2012 Credit Agreements and the commercial paper programs. The total amount available
to the pool participants from the utility money pool at any given
time is reduced by the amount of borrowings made by
participants, but is increased to the extent that the pool
participants advance surplus funds to the utility money pool or remit funds from other external sources. The availability of funds
is also determined by funding requirement limits established by
regulatory authorizations. Participants receiving a loan under the
utility money pool agreement must repay the principal amount of such loan, together with accrued interest. The rate of interest
depends on the composition of internal and external funds in the utility money pool. The average interest rate for borrowing under the utility money pool for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, was 0.08% and 0.39%, respectively. See Note 8 - Related Party Transactions for the amount of interest income and expense from the money pool arrangements recorded by the Ameren Companies for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014.NOTE 4 - LONG-TERM DEBT AND EQUITY Ameren MissouriIn March 2015, Ameren Missouri received cash capital contributions of $224 million from Ameren (parent).
In April 2015, Ameren Missouri issued $250 million of 3.65% senior secured notes due April 15, 2045, with interest payable semiannually on April 15 and October 15 of each year, beginning October 15, 2015. Ameren Missouri received proceeds of $247 million, which were used to repay outstanding short-term debt, including short-term debt that Ameren Missouri incurred in connection with the repayment of $114 million of its 4.75% senior secured notes that matured on April 1, 2015.
Indenture Provisions and Other CovenantsAmeren Missouri's and Ameren Illinois' indentures, credit facilities, and articles of incorporation include covenants and provisions related to issuances of first mortgage bonds and preferred stock. Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois are required to meet certain ratios to issue additional first mortgage bonds and preferred stock. A failure to achieve these ratios would not result in a default under these covenants and provisions, but would restrict the companies' ability to issue bonds or preferred stock. The following table summarizes the required and actual interest coverage ratios for interest charges and dividend coverage ratios and bonds and preferred stock issuable as of March31, 2015, at an assumed annual interest rate of 5% and dividend rate of 6%.
RequiredInterest Coverage Ratio (a)Actual InterestCoverageRatioBondsIssuable (b)RequiredDividend Coverage Ratio (c)ActualDividend Coverage Ratio PreferredStock IssuableAmeren Missouri4.6$3,386113.4$2,530 Ameren Illinois 6.63,423(d)2.8203(e)(a) Coverage required on the annual interest charges on first mortgage bonds outstanding and to be issued. Coverage is not required in certain cases when additional first mortgage bonds are issued on the basis of retired bonds.
20(b) Amount of bonds issuable based either on required coverage ratios or unfunded property additions, whichever is more restrictive. The amounts shown also include bonds issuable based on retired bond capacity of $832 million and $204 million at Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois, respectively.(c) Coverage required on the annual dividend on preferred stock outstanding and to be issued, as required in the respective company's articles of incorporation.(d) Amount of bonds issuable by Ameren Illinois based on unfunded property additions and retired bonds solely under the former IP mortgage indenture. The amount of bonds issuable by Ameren Illinois is also subject to the lien restrictions contained in the 2012 Illinois Credit Agreement. (e) Preferred stock issuable is restricted by the amount of preferred stock that is currently authorized by Ameren Illinois' articles of incorporation. Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois and certain other Ameren subsidiaries are subject to Section305(a) of the Federal Power Act, which makes it unlawful for any officer or director of a public utility, as defined in the Federal Power Act, to participate in
the making or paying of any dividend from any funds "properly included in capital account." The FERC has consistently
interpreted the provision to allow dividends to be paid as long as
(1) the source of the dividends is clearly disclosed, (2) the
dividends are not excessive, and (3) there is no self-dealing on the part of corporate officials. At a minimum, Ameren believes
that dividends can be paid by its subsidiaries that are public utilities from retained earnings. In addition, under Illinois law,
Ameren Illinois may not pay any dividend on its stock, unless, among other things, its earnings and earned surplus are sufficient
to declare and pay a dividend after provision is made for reasonable and proper reserves, or unless Ameren Illinois has
specific authorization from the ICC.Ameren Illinois' articles of incorporation require dividend payments on its common stock to be based on ratios of common stock to total capitalization and other provisions related to certain
operating expenses and accumulations of earned surplus.
Ameren Illinois committed to the FERC to maintain a minimum of 30% equity in its capital structure. As of March31, 2015, Ameren Illinois had 54% of equity in its capital structure.In order for the Ameren Companies to issue securities in the future, we have to comply with all applicable requirements in effect at the time of any such issuances.Off-Balance-Sheet ArrangementsAt March31, 2015, none of the Ameren Companies had any off-balance-sheet financing arrangements, other than operating leases entered into in the ordinary course of business. None of the Ameren Companies expect to engage in any significant off-
balance-sheet financing arrangements in the near future. See Note 12 - Divestiture Transactions and Discontinued Operations for Ameren (parent) guarantees and letters of credit issued to support New AER based on the transaction agreement with IPH.
21NOTE 5 - OTHER INCOME AND EXPENSESThe following table presents the components of "Other Income and Expenses" in the Ameren Companies' statements of income for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014:
ThreeMonths 20152014Ameren:(a)Miscellaneous income:
Allowance for equity funds used during construction
$5$7Interest income on industrial development revenue bonds 77Interest income 42Other32Total miscellaneous income
$19$18Miscellaneous expense:
Donations
$8$5Other34Total miscellaneous expense
$11$9Ameren Missouri:
Miscellaneous income:
Allowance for equity funds used during construction
$4$7Interest income on industrial development revenue bonds 77Total miscellaneous income
$11$14Miscellaneous expense:
Donations
$2$2Other12Total miscellaneous expense
$3$4Ameren Illinois:
Miscellaneous income:
Allowance for equity funds used during construction
$1$-Interest income 42Other21Total miscellaneous income
$7$3Miscellaneous expense:
Donations
$3$3Other21Total miscellaneous expense
$5$4(a) Includes amounts for Ameren registrant and nonregistrant subsidiaries and intercompany eliminations.NOTE 6 - DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTSWe use derivatives to manage the risk of changes in market prices for natural gas, power, and uranium, as well as the risk of changes in rail transportation surcharges through fuel oil hedges.
Such price fluctuations may cause the following:* an unrealized appreciation or depreciation of our contracted commitments to purchase or sell when purchase or sale
prices under the commitments are compared with current
commodity prices;* market values of natural gas and uranium inventories that differ from the cost of those commodities in inventory; and* actual cash outlays for the purchase of these commodities that differ from anticipated cash outlays.
The derivatives that we use to hedge these risks are governed by our risk management policies for forward contracts,
futures, options, and swaps. Our net positions are continually
assessed within our structured hedging programs to determine whether new or offsetting transactions are required. The goal of
the hedging program is generally to mitigate financial risks while ensuring that sufficient volumes are available to meet our
requirements. Contracts we enter into as part of our risk management program may be settled financially, settled by physical delivery, or net settled with the counterparty.
22The following table presents open gross commodity contract volumes by commodity type for derivative assets and liabilities as of March31, 2015, and December31, 2014. As of March31, 2015, these contracts ran through October 2017, October 2019, May 2032, and October 2016 for fuel oils, natural gas, power, and uranium, respectively.
Quantity (in millions, except as indicated) 20152014Commodity AmerenMissouriAmerenIllinoisAmeren AmerenMissouriAmerenIllinoisAmeren Fuel oils (in gallons)
(a)40(b)4050(b)50Natural gas (in mmbtu)2912115028108136Power (in megawatthours) 1101111112Uranium (pounds in thousands) 349(b)349332(b)332(a) Fuel oils consist of heating oil and ultra-low-sulfur diesel.(b) Not applicable.
Authoritative accounting guidance regarding derivative instruments requires that all contracts considered to be derivative instruments be recorded on the balance sheet at their fair values, unless the NPNS exception applies. See Note 7 - Fair Value
Measurements for discussion of our methods of assessing the
fair value of derivative instruments. Many of our physical
contracts, such as our purchased power contracts, qualify for the NPNS exception to derivative accounting rules. The revenue or
expense on NPNS contracts is recognized at the contract price upon physical delivery.
If we determine that a contract meets the definition of a derivative and is not eligible for the NPNS exception, we review the contract to determine if it qualifies for hedge accounting. We
also consider whether gains or losses resulting from such
derivatives qualify for regulatory deferral. Derivative contracts
that qualify for regulatory deferral are recorded at fair value, with
changes in fair value recorded as regulatory assets or regulatory liabilities in the period in which the change occurs. We believe
derivative losses and gains deferred as regulatory assets and
regulatory liabilities are probable of recovery or refund through
future rates charged to customers. Regulatory assets and
regulatory liabilities are amortized to operating income as related
losses and gains are reflected in rates charged to customers.
Therefore, gains and losses on these derivatives have no effect on operating income. As of March31, 2015, and December31,
2014, all contracts that qualify for hedge accounting received
regulatory deferral.
Authoritative accounting guidance permits companies to offset fair value amounts recognized for the right to reclaim cash
collateral (a receivable) or the obligation to return cash collateral
(a liability) against fair value amounts recognized for derivative
instruments that are executed with the same counterparty under a master netting arrangement. The Ameren Companies did not
elect to adopt this guidance for any eligible commodity contracts.
23The following table presents the carrying value and balance sheet location of all derivative commodity contracts, none of which were designated as hedging instruments, as of March31, 2015, and December31, 2014:
Balance Sheet Location AmerenMissouriAmerenIllinoisAmeren2015Fuel oils Other current assets
$1$-$1Natural gas Other current assets
-11PowerOther current assets 7-7Total assets
$8$1$9Fuel oils Other current liabilities
$21$-$21Other deferred credits and liabilities 7-7Natural gas MTM derivative liabilities (a)32(a)Other current liabilities 6-38Other deferred credits and liabilities 81826PowerMTM derivative liabilities (a)11(a)Other current liabilities 1-12Other deferred credits and liabilities
-153153UraniumOther current liabilities 1-1Total liabilities
$44$214$2582014 Fuel oils Other current assets
$2$-$2Natural gas Other current assets 112PowerOther current assets 15-15Total assets
$18$1$19Fuel oils Other current liabilities
$22$-$22Other deferred credits and liabilities 7-7Natural gas MTM derivative liabilities (a)31(a)Other current liabilities 6-37Other deferred credits and liabilities 61319PowerMTM derivative liabilities (a)11(a)Other current liabilities 3-14Other deferred credits and liabilities
-131131UraniumOther current liabilities 2-2Total liabilities
$46$186$232(a) Balance sheet line item not applicable to registrant.
The following table presents the cumulative amount of pretax net gains (losses) on all derivative instruments deferred in regulatory assets or regulatory liabilities as of March31, 2015, and December31, 2014:
AmerenMissouriAmerenIllinoisAmeren2015Fuel oils derivative contracts (a)$(27)$-$(27)Natural gas derivative contracts (b)(14)(49)(63)Power derivative contracts (c)6(164)(158)Uranium derivative contracts (d)(1)-(1)2014 Fuel oils derivative contracts
$(29)$-$(29)Natural gas derivative contracts(11)(43)(54)Power derivative contracts 12(142)(130)Uranium derivative contracts (2)-(2)(a) Represents net losses associated with fuel oils derivative contracts at Ameren Missouri. These contracts are a partial hedge of Ameren Missouri's rail transportation surcharges for coal through December 2017. Current losses deferred as regulatory assets include $20 million at Ameren and Ameren Missouri. (b) Represents net losses associated with natural gas derivative contracts. These contracts are a partial hedge of natural gas requirements through October 2019 at Ameren and Ameren Missouri and through October 2018 at Ameren Illinois. Current gains deferred as regulatory liabilities include $1 million at Ameren and Ameren Illinois, respectively. Current losses deferred as regulatory assets include $38 million, $6 million, and $32 million at Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois, respectively.(c) Represents net gains (losses) associated with power derivative contracts. These contracts are a partial hedge of power price requirements through May 2032 at Ameren and Ameren Illinois and through December 2016 at Ameren Missouri. Current gains deferred as regulatory liabilities include $7 million at Ameren and Ameren Missouri.
Current losses deferred as regulatory assets include $12 million, $1 million, and $11 million at Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois, respectively.(d) Represents net losses on uranium derivative contracts at Ameren Missouri. These contracts are a partial hedge of Ameren Missouri's uranium requirements through December 2016. Current losses deferred as regulatory assets include $1 million at Ameren and Ameren Missouri.
24Derivative instruments are subject to various credit-related losses in the event of nonperformance by counterparties to the transaction.
Exchange-traded contracts are supported by the financial and credit quality of the clearing members of the respective exchanges and have nominal credit risk. In all other transactions, we are exposed to credit risk. Our credit risk management program involves establishing credit
limits and collateral requirements for counterparties, using master netting arrangements, and reporting daily exposure to senior management.We believe that entering into master netting arrangements mitigates the level of financial loss that could result from default by allowing net settlement of derivative assets and liabilities. We generally enter into the following master netting arrangements: (1) the International Swaps and Derivatives Association Agreement, a standardized financial natural gas and electric contract; (2) the Master Power Purchase and Sale Agreement, created by the Edison Electric Institute and the National Energy Marketers Association, a standardized contract for the purchase and sale of wholesale power; and (3) the North American Energy Standards Board Inc. Agreement, a standardized contract for the purchase and sale of natural gas. These master netting arrangements allow the counterparties to net settle sale and purchase transactions.
Further, collateral requirements are calculated at the master netting arrangement level by counterparty.
The following table provides the recognized gross derivative balances and the net amounts of those derivatives subject to an enforceable master netting arrangement or similar agreement as of March31, 2015, and December31, 2014:
Gross Amounts Not Offset in the Balance Sheet Commodity Contracts Eligible to be Offset Gross Amounts Recognized in the Balance Sheet Derivative Instruments Cash Collateral Received/Posted (a)NetAmount2015Assets:
Ameren Missouri
$8$4$-$4Ameren Illinois 1--1Ameren$9$4$-$5Liabilities:
Ameren Missouri
$44$4$4$36Ameren Illinois 214-2212Ameren$258$4$6$2482014 Assets:
Ameren Missouri
$18$5$-$13Ameren Illinois 1--1Ameren$19$5$-$14Liabilities:
Ameren Missouri
$46$5$5$36Ameren Illinois 186--186Ameren$232$5$5$222(a) Cash collateral received reduces gross asset balances and is included in "Other current liabilities" and "Other deferred credits and liabilities" on the balance sheet. Cash collateral posted reduces gross liability balances and is included in "Other current assets" and "Other assets" on the balance sheet.
Concentrations of Credit Risk In determining our concentrations of credit risk related to derivative instruments, we review our individual counterparties and categorize each counterparty into groupings according to the primary business in which each engages. We calculate maximum exposures based on the gross fair value of financial instruments, including NPNS and other accrual contracts. As of March31, 2015, if counterparty groups were to fail completely to perform on contracts, Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois' maximum exposure was $6 million, $5 million, and $1 million, respectively. The potential loss on counterparty exposures is reduced by the application of master netting arrangements and collateral held, to the extent of reducing the exposure to zero. As of March31, 2015, the potential loss after consideration of the application of master netting arrangements and collateral held for Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois was $5 million, $5 million, and $- million, respectively.
Derivative Instruments with Credit Risk-Related Contingent FeaturesOur commodity contracts contain collateral provisions tied to the Ameren Companies' credit ratings. If we were to experience an adverse change in our credit ratings, or if a counterparty with reasonable grounds for uncertainty regarding performance of an obligation requested adequate assurance of performance, additional collateral postings might be required. The following table presents, as of March31, 2015, the
aggregate fair value of all derivative instruments with credit risk-related contingent features in a gross liability position, the cash collateral 25posted, and the aggregate amount of additional collateral that could be required to be posted with counterparties. The additional collateral required is the net liability position allowed under the master netting arrangements, assuming (1) the credit risk-related contingent features underlying these arrangements were triggered on March31, 2015, and (2) those counterparties with rights to do so requested collateral.AggregateFairValueof Derivative Liabilities (a)CashCollateralPosted PotentialAggregateAmountof Additional CollateralRequired (b)2015Ameren Missouri
$87$6$83Ameren Illinois 80274Ameren$167$8$157(a) Prior to consideration of master netting arrangements and including NPNS and other accrual contract exposures.(b) As collateral requirements with certain counterparties are based on master netting arrangements, the aggregate amount of additional collateral required to be posted is determined after consideration of the effects of such arrangements.NOTE 7 - FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS Fair value is defined as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or
liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. We use various methods to determine
fair value, including market, income, and cost approaches. With
these approaches, we adopt certain assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability, including
assumptions about market risk or the risks inherent in the inputs
to the valuation. Inputs to valuation can be readily observable, market-corroborated, or unobservable. We use valuation
techniques that maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs. Authoritative accounting guidance established a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the
inputs used to measure fair value.
All financial assets and liabilities carried at fair value are classified and disclosed in one of three hierarchy levels. See Note 8 - Fair Value Measurements under Part II, Item 8, of the Form 10-K for information related to hierarchy levels. We perform
an analysis each quarter to determine the appropriate hierarchy
level of the assets and liabilities subject to fair value
measurements. Financial assets and liabilities are classified in
their entirety according to the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. All assets and liabilities
whose fair value measurement is based on significant
unobservable inputs are classified as Level 3.
26The following table describes the valuation techniques and unobservable inputs for the fair value of financial assets and liabilities classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy as of March31, 2015:
Fair Value WeightedAverageAssetsLiabilitiesValuation Technique(s)
Unobservable Input RangeLevel 3 Derivative asset and liability - commodity contracts (a):AmerenFuel oils$1$(7)Option modelVolatilities(%)
(b)33 - 8042Discounted cash flowAmeren Missouri credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.40(d)Natural gas1(1)Option modelVolatilities(%)
(e)6 - 3933Nodal basis($/mmbtu)
(e)(0.40) - (0.20)(0.30)Discounted cash flowNodal basis($/mmbtu)
(e)(0.40) - (0.10)(0.30)
Counterparty credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.31 - 12.07 2.47Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.40(d)Power(f)5(165)Discounted cash flowAverage forward peak and off-peak pricing - forwards/
swaps($/MWh)
(g)22 - 4632Estimated auction price for FTRs($/MW)
(e)(597) - 1,922 153Nodal basis($/MWh)
(e)(11) - 0(3)Counterparty credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.29 - 10.98 5.84Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.40(d)Fundamental energy production model Estimated future gas prices($/mmbtu)
(e)3 - 54Escalation rate(%)
(e)(h)1(d)Contract price allocationEstimated renewable energy credit costs($/credit)
(e)5 - 76Uranium-(1)Discounted cash flowAverage forward uranium pricing($/pound)
(e)40 - 4340Ameren MissouriFuel oils$1$(7)Option modelVolatilities(%)
(b)33 - 8042Discounted cash flowAmeren Missouri credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.40(d)Natural gas-(1)Option modelVolatilities(%)
(e)6 - 3933Nodal basis($/mmbtu)
(e)(0.40) - (0.20)(0.30)Discounted cash flowNodal basis($/mmbtu)
(e)(0.10)(d)Counterparty credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.54 - 12.07 5Ameren Missouri credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.40(d)Power(f)5(1)Discounted cash flowAverage forward peak and off-peak pricing - forwards/
swaps($/MWh)
(b)24 - 4636Estimated auction price for FTRs($/MW)
(e)(597) - 1,922 153Nodal basis($/MWh)
(b)(11) - (4)
(8)Counterparty credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.29 - 10.98 5.84Uranium-(1)Discounted cash flowAverage forward uranium pricing($/pound)
(e)40 - 4340Ameren IllinoisNatural gas$1$-Discounted cash flowNodal basis($/mmbtu)
(e)(0.40) - (0.10)(0.30)
Counterparty credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.31 - 2.28 1.28Ameren Illinois credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.40(d)Power(f)-(164)Discounted cash flowAverage forward peak and off-peak pricing - forwards/
swaps($/MWh)
(e)22 - 3831Nodal basis($/MWh)
(e)(6) - 0(3)Ameren Illinois credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.40(d)Fundamental energy
production model Estimated future gas prices($/mmbtu)
(e)3 - 54Escalation rate(%)
(e)(h)1(d)Contract price allocationEstimated renewable energy credit costs($/credit)
(e)5 - 76(a) The derivative asset and liability balances are presented net of counterparty credit considerations.(b) Generally, significant increases (decreases) in this input in isolation would result in a significantly lower (higher) fair value measurement.
(c) Counterparty credit risk is applied only to counterparties with derivative asset balances. Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois credit risk is applied only to counterparties with derivative liability balances.(d) Not applicable.
(e) Generally, significant increases (decreases) in this input in isolation would result in a significantly higher (lower) fair value measurement.
(f) Power valuations use visible third-party pricing evaluated by month for peak and off-peak demand through 2018. Valuations beyond 2018 use fundamentally modeled pricing by month for peak and off-peak demand.(g) The balance at Ameren is comprised of Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois power contracts, which respond differently to unobservable input changes due to their opposing positions. As such, refer to the power sensitivity analysis for each company above.
27(h) Escalation rate applies to power prices 2026 and beyond.
The following table describes the valuation techniques and unobservable inputs for the fair value of financial assets and liabilities classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy as of December31, 2014:
Fair Value WeightedAssetsLiabilitiesValuation Technique(s)
Unobservable InputRangeAverage Level 3 Derivative asset and liability - commodity contracts (a):AmerenFuel oils$2$(8)Option modelVolatilities(%)
(b)3 - 3932Discounted cash flowAmeren Missouri credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.43(d)Escalation rate(%)
(e)(f)5(d)Natural Gas1(2)Option modelVolatilities(%)
(b)31 - 14463Nodal basis($/mmbtu)
(e)(0.40) - 0 (0.20)Discounted cash flowNodal basis($/mmbtu)
(e)(0.40) - 0.10(0.20)
Counterparty credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.43 - 13 3Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.43(d)Power(g)11(144)Discounted cash flowAverage forward peak and off-peak pricing - forwards/
swaps($/MWh)
(h)27 - 5032Estimated auction price for FTRs($/MW)
(e)(1,833) - 2,743171 Nodal basis($/MWh)
(e)(6) - 0(2)Counterparty credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.26(d)Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.43(d)Fundamental energy production model Estimated future gas prices($/mmbtu)
(e)4 - 54Escalation rate(%)
(e)(i)0 - 11Contract price allocationEstimated renewable energy credit costs($/credit)
(e)5 - 76Uranium-(2)Discounted cash flowAverage forward uranium pricing($/pound)
(e)35 - 4036Ameren MissouriFuel oils$2$(8)Option modelVolatilities(%)
(b)3 - 3932Discounted cash flowAmeren Missouri credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.43(d)Escalation rate(%)
(e)(f)5(d)Natural Gas-(1)Option modelVolatilities(%)
(b)31 - 14453Nodal basis($/mmbtu)
(e)(0.40) - 0 (0.30)Discounted cash flowNodal basis($/mmbtu)
(e)(0.10)(d)Counterparty credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.57 - 13 5Ameren Missouri credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.43(d)Power(g)11(2)Discounted cash flowAverage forward peak and off-peak pricing - forwards/
swaps($/MWh)
(b)27 - 5032Estimated auction price for FTRs($/MW)
(e)(1,833) - 2,743171 Counterparty credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.26(d)Ameren Missouri credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.43(d)Uranium-(2)Discounted cash flowAverage forward uranium pricing($/pound)
(e)35 - 4036Ameren IllinoisNatural Gas$1$(1)Option modelVolatilities(%)
(b)50 - 14494Nodal basis($/mmbtu)
(e)(0.10) - 0 (0.10)Discounted cash flowNodal basis($/mmbtu)
(e)(0.40) - 0.10(0.20)
Counterparty credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.43 - 20.83Ameren Illinois credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.43(d)Power(g)-(142)Discounted cash flowAverage forward peak and off-peak pricing - forwards/
swaps($/MWh)
(e)27 - 3832Nodal basis($/MWh)
(e)(6) - 0(2)Ameren Illinois credit risk(%)
(b)(c)0.43(d)Fundamental energy
production model Estimated future gas prices($/mmbtu)
(e)4 - 54Escalation rate(%)
(e)(i)0 - 11Contract price allocationEstimated renewable energy credit costs($/credit)
(e)5 - 76(a) The derivative asset and liability balances are presented net of counterparty credit considerations.(b) Generally, significant increases (decreases) in this input in isolation would result in a significantly lower (higher) fair value measurement.
28(c) Counterparty credit risk is applied only to counterparties with derivative asset balances. Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois credit risk is applied only to counterparties with derivative liability balances.(d) Not applicable.(e) Generally, significant increases (decreases) in this input in isolation would result in a significantly higher (lower) fair value measurement.
(f) Escalation rate applies to fuel oil prices 2017 and beyond.
(g) Power valuations use visible third-party pricing evaluated by month for peak and off-peak demand through 2018. Valuations beyond 2018 use fundamentally modeled pricing by month for peak and off-peak demand.(h) The balance at Ameren is comprised of Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois power contracts, which respond differently to unobservable input changes due to their opposing positions. As such, refer to the power sensitivity analysis for each company above.(i) Escalation rate applies to power prices 2026 and beyond.
In accordance with applicable authoritative accounting guidance, we consider nonperformance risk in our valuation of derivative instruments by analyzing the credit standing of our counterparties and considering any counterparty credit enhancements (e.g., collateral).
The guidance also requires that the fair value measurement of liabilities reflect the nonperformance risk of the reporting entity
, as applicable.
Therefore, we have factored the impact of our credit standing, as well as any potential credit enhancements, into the fair value measurement
of both derivative assets and derivative liabilities. Included in our valuation, and based on current market conditions, is a valuation adjustment
for counterparty default derived from market data such as the price of credit default swaps, bond yields, and credit ratings. No gains or losses related to valuation adjustments for counterparty default risk were recorded at Ameren, Ameren Missouri, or Ameren Illinois in the first quarter of 2015 or 2014. At March31, 2015, the counterparty default risk liability valuation adjustment related to derivative contracts totaled $1 million, less than $1 million, and $1 million, for Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois, respectively. At December31, 2014, the counterparty default risk liability valuation adjustment related to derivative contracts totaled $1 million, less than $1 million, and $1 million, for Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois, respectively.
29The following table sets forth, by level within the fair value hierarchy, our assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of March31, 2015:
QuotedPricesin ActiveMarketsforIdentical Assets or Liabilities (Level 1)
SignificantOther ObservableInputs (Level 2)
SignificantOther Unobservable Inputs(Level 3)
TotalAssets:AmerenDerivative assets - commodity contracts (a):Fuel oils
$-$-$1$1Natural gas
--11Power-257Total derivative assets - commodity contracts$-$2$7$9Nuclear decommissioning trust fund:
Cash and cash equivalents
$2$-$-$2Equity securities:
U.S. large capitalization 368--368Debt securities:
Corporate bonds 65U.S. treasury and agency securities
-101-101Other-20-20Total nuclear decommissioning trust fund$370$186$-$556(b)Total Ameren
$370$188$7$565AmerenDerivative assets - commodity contracts (a):MissouriFuel oils
$-$-$1$1Power-257Total derivative assets - commodity contracts$-$2$6$8Nuclear decommissioning trust fund:
Cash and cash equivalents
$2$-$-$2Equity securities:
U.S. large capitalization 368--368Debt securities:
Corporate bonds 65U.S. treasury and agency securities
-101-101Other-20-20Total nuclear decommissioning trust fund$370$186$-$556(b)Total Ameren Missouri
$370$188$6$564AmerenDerivative assets - commodity contracts (a):IllinoisNatural gas
$-$-$1$1Liabilities:
AmerenDerivative liabilities - commodity contracts (a):Fuel oils
$21$-$7$28Natural gas
-63164Power--165165Uranium--11Total Ameren
$21$63$174$258AmerenDerivative liabilities - commodity contracts (a):MissouriFuel oils
$21$-$7$28Natural gas
-13114Power--11Uranium--11Total Ameren Missouri
$21$13$10$44AmerenDerivative liabilities - commodity contracts (a):IllinoisNatural gas
$-$50$-$50Power--164164Total Ameren Illinois
$-$50$164$214(a) The derivative asset and liability balances are presented net of counterparty credit considerations.(b) Balance excludes $2 million of receivables, payables, and accrued income, net.
30The following table sets forth, by level within the fair value hierarchy, our assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December31, 2014:
QuotedPricesin ActiveMarketsforIdentical Assets or Liabilities (Level 1)
SignificantOther ObservableInputs (Level 2)
SignificantOther Unobservable Inputs(Level 3)
TotalAssets:AmerenDerivative assets - commodity contracts (a):Fuel oils
$-$-$2$2Natural gas
-112Power-41115Total derivative assets - commodity contracts$-$5$14$19Nuclear decommissioning trust fund:
Cash and cash equivalents
$1$-$-$1Equity securities:
U.S. large capitalization 364--364Debt securities:
Corporate bonds 63U.S. treasury and agency securities
-102-102Other-17-17Total nuclear decommissioning trust fund$365$182$-$547(b)Total Ameren
$365$187$14$566AmerenDerivative assets - commodity contracts (a):MissouriFuel oils
$-$-$2$2Natural gas 1Power-41115Total derivative assets - commodity contracts$-$5$13$18Nuclear decommissioning trust fund:
Cash and cash equivalents
$1$-$-$1Equity securities:
U.S. large capitalization 364--364Debt securities:
Corporate bonds 63U.S. treasury and agency securities
-102-102Other-17-17Total nuclear decommissioning trust fund$365$182$-$547(b)Total Ameren Missouri
$365$187$13$565AmerenDerivative assets - commodity contracts (a):IllinoisNatural gas
$-$-$1$1Liabilities:
AmerenDerivative liabilities - commodity contracts (a):Fuel oils
$21$-$8$29Natural gas 153256Power-1144145Uranium--22Total Ameren
$22$54$156$232AmerenDerivative liabilities - commodity contracts (a):MissouriFuel oils
$21$-$8$29Natural gas 110112Power-123Uranium--22Total Ameren Missouri
$22$11$13$46AmerenDerivative liabilities - commodity contracts (a):IllinoisNatural gas
$-$43$1$44Power--142142Total Ameren Illinois
$-$43$143$186(a) The derivative asset and liability balances are presented net of counterparty credit considerations.(b) Balance excludes $2 million of receivables, payables, and accrued income, net.
31The following table summarizes the changes in the fair value of financial assets and liabilities classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy for the three months ended March 31, 2015:
Net derivative commodity contracts AmerenMissouriAmerenIllinoisAmerenFuel oils:
Beginning balance at January1, 2015
$(6)$(a)$(6)Realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in regulatory assets/liabilities (1)(a)(1)Settlements 1(a)1Ending balance at March 31, 2015
$(6)$(a)$(6)Change in unrealized gains (losses) related to assets/liabilities held at March 31, 2015$
(3)$(a)$(3)Natural gas:
Beginning balance at January1, 2015
$(1)$-$(1)Purchases
-11Ending balance at March 31, 2015
$(1)$1$-Change in unrealized gains (losses) related to assets/liabilities held at March 31, 2015$
-$-$-Power:
Beginning balance at January1, 2015
$9$(142)$(133)Realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in regulatory assets/liabilities (2)(25)(27)Settlements (3)3-Ending balance at March 31, 2015
$4$(164)$(160)Change in unrealized gains (losses) related to assets/liabilities held at March 31, 2015$
-$(24)$(24)Uranium:
Beginning balance at January1, 2015
$(2)$(a)$(2)Realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in regulatory assets/liabilities 1(a)1Ending balance at March 31, 2015
$(1)$(a)$(1)Change in unrealized gains (losses) related to assets/liabilities held at March 31, 2015$1$(a)$1(a) Not applicable.
The following table summarizes the changes in the fair value of financial assets and liabilities classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy for the three months ended March 31, 2014:
Net derivative commodity contracts AmerenMissouriAmerenIllinoisAmerenFuel oils:
Beginning balance at January1, 2014
$5$(a)$5Realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in regulatory assets/liabilities (2)(a)(2)Settlements (2)(a)(2)Ending balance at March 31, 2014
$1$(a)$1Change in unrealized gains (losses) related to assets/liabilities held at March 31, 2014
$(1)$(a)$(1)Natural gas:
Beginning balance at January1, 2014
$-$-$-Purchases
-(2)(2)Settlements
-22Ending balance at March 31, 2014
$-$-$-Change in unrealized gains (losses) related to assets/liabilities held at March 31, 2014$
-$-$-Power:
Beginning balance at January1, 2014
$19$(108)$(89)Realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in regulatory assets/liabilities (5)(12)(17)Settlements (5)-(5)Transfers out of Level 3 1-1Ending balance at March 31, 2014
$10$(120)$(110)Change in unrealized gains (losses) related to assets/liabilities held at March 31, 2014
$(1)$(14)$(15)Uranium:
Beginning balance at January1, 2014
$(6)$(a)$(6)Settlements 1(a)1Ending balance at March 31, 2014
$(5)$(a)$(5)Change in unrealized gains (losses) related to assets/liabilities held at March 31, 2014
$-$(a)$-(a) Not applicable.
32Transfers in or out of Level 3 represent either (1)existing assets and liabilities that were previously categorized as a higher level, but were recategorized to Level 3, because the inputs to the model became unobservable during the period or (2)existing assets and liabilities that were previously classified as Level 3, but were recategorized to a higher level because the lowest significant input became observable during the period. Transfers between Level 2 and Level 3 for power derivatives were primarily caused by changes in availability of similar financial trades observable on electronic exchanges between the periods. Any reclassifications are reported as transfers out of Level 3 at the fair value measurement reported at the beginning of the period in which the changes occur. For the three months ended March31, 2015 and
2014, there were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 or between Level 2 and Level 3 related to derivative commodity contracts, with the exception of $1 million of transfers out of Level 3 into Level 2 related to power contracts at Ameren and Ameren Missouri for the three months ended March31, 2014.The Ameren Companies' carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalents approximate fair value because of the short-term nature of these instruments. They are considered to be Level 1 in the fair value hierarchy. The Ameren Companies' short-term borrowings also
approximate fair value because of their short-term nature. Short-term borrowings are considered to be Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy
, as they are valued based on market rates for similar market transactions. The estimated fair value of long-term debt and preferred stock is
based on the quoted market prices for same or similar issuances for companies with similar credit profiles or on the current rates of fered to the Ameren Companies for similar financial instruments, which fair value measurement is considered Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy.
The following table presents the carrying amounts and estimated fair values of our long-term debt, capital lease obligations and preferred stock at March31, 2015, and December31, 2014:
March 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 CarryingAmountFairValueCarryingAmountFairValueAmeren:(a)Long-term debt and capital lease obligations (including current portion)$6,240$7,127
$6,240$7,135Preferred stock 142123142122Ameren Missouri:
Long-term debt and capital lease obligations (including current portion)$3,999$4,574
$3,999$4,518Preferred stock 80748073Ameren Illinois:
Long-term debt$2,241$2,553
$2,241$2,517Preferred stock 62496249(a) Preferred stock is recorded in "Noncontrolling Interests" on the consolidated balance sheet.NOTE 8 - RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS Ameren (parent) and its subsidiaries have engaged in, and may in the future engage in, affiliate transactions in the normal course of business. These transactions primarily consist of power
purchases and sales, services received or rendered, and
borrowings and lendings.Transactions between affiliates are reported as intercompany transactions on their respective financial statements but are eliminated in consolidation for Ameren's
financial statements. For a discussion of our material related party agreements, see Note 14 - Related Party Transactions
under Part II, Item8, of the Form 10-K and the money pool arrangements discussed in Note 3 - Short-term Debt and
Liquidity of this report.Electric Power Supply AgreementsIn April 2015, Ameren Illinois used an RFP process, administered by the IPA, to procure energy products from June1, 2015, through May 31, 2018. Ameren Missouri was among the winning suppliers in the energy product RFP process. As a result, in 2015, Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois entered into energy product agreements by which Ameren Missouri agreed to sell and Ameren Illinois agreed to purchase 667,000 megawatthours at an average price of $36 per megawatthour during the period of
June1, 2015, through June 30, 2017.
33The following table presents the impact on Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois of related party transactions for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014.
Three Months Agreement Income Statement Line Item AmerenMissouriAmerenIllinoisAmeren Missouri power supply Operating Revenues2015$1$(a) agreements with Ameren Illinois2014(b)(a)
Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois Operating Revenues 201561rent and facility services 20145(b)Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois Operating Revenues2015(b)(b) miscellaneous support services2014(b)(b)
Total Operating Revenues2015$7$120145(b)Ameren Illinois power supply Purchased Power2015$(a)$1 agreements with Ameren Missouri2014(a)(b)
Ameren Illinois transmission Purchased Power2015(a)1services with ATXI2014(a)1Total Purchased Power2015$(a)$2 2014(a)1Ameren Services support services Other Operations and Maintenance2015$34$29agreement 20143327Total Other Operations and2015$34$29Maintenance Expenses 20143327Money pool borrowings (advances)
Interest Charges/ Miscellaneous2015$(b)$(b)
Income2014(b)(b)(a) Not applicable.(b) Amount less than $1 million.NOTE 9 - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES We are involved in legal, tax and regulatory proceedings before various courts, regulatory commissions, authorities and governmental agencies with respect to matters that arise in the ordinary course of business, some of which involve substantial amounts of money. We believe that the final disposition of these proceedings, except as otherwise disclosed in the notes to our financial statements in this report and in our Form 10-K, will not have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial position, or liquidity.Reference is made to Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, Note 2 - Rate and Regulatory Matters, Note 14 - Related Party Transactions, Note 15 - Commitments and Contingencies, and Note 16 - Divestiture Transactions and Discontinued Operations under Part II, Item8, of the Form 10-K. See also Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, Note 2 - Rate and Regulatory Matters, Note 8
- Related Party Transactions, Note 10 - Callaway Energy Center, and Note 12 - Divestiture Transactions and Discontinued Operations in this
report.Callaway Energy CenterThe following table presents insurance coverage at Ameren Missouri's Callaway energy center at March31, 2015. The property coverage and the nuclear liability coverage must be renewed on April1 and January1, respectively, of each year. Both coverages were renewed in 2015.
Type and Source of Coverage MaximumCoverages MaximumAssessments for Single Incidents Public liability and nuclear worker liability:
American Nuclear Insurers$375$-Pool participation 13,241(a)128(b)$13,616(c)$128Property damage:
NEIL$2,750(d)$26(e)European Mutual Association for Nuclear Insurance 500(f)-$3,250$26Replacement power:
NEIL$490(g)$9(e) 34(a) Provided through mandatory participation in an industrywide retrospective premium assessment program.(b) Retrospective premium under the Price-Anderson Act. This is subject to retrospective assessment with respect to a covered loss in excess of $375 million in the event of an incident at any licensed United States commercial reactor, payable at $19 million per year.(c) Limit of liability for each incident under the Price-Anderson liability provisions of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, as amended. A company could be assessed up to $128 million per incident for each licensed reactor it operates with a maximum of $19 million per incident to be paid in a calendar year for each reactor. This limit is subject to change to account for the effects of inflation and changes in the number of licensed reactors.(d) NEIL provides $2.25 billion in property damage, decontamination, and premature decommissioning insurance for both radiation and nonradiation events. An additional $500 million is provided for radiation events only for a total of $2.75 billion. (e) All NEIL insured plants could be subject to assessments should losses exceed the accumulated funds from NEIL.
(f) European Mutual Association for Nuclear Insurance provides $500 million in excess of the $2.75 billion and $2.25 billion property coverage for radiation and nonradiation events, respectively, provided by NEIL.(g) Provides replacement power cost insurance in the event of a prolonged accidental outage. Weekly indemnity up to $4.5 million for 52 weeks, which commences after the first twelve weeks of an outage, plus up to $3.6 million per week for a minimum of 71 weeks thereafter for a total not exceeding the policy limit of $490 million.
Nonradiation events are sub-limited to $328 million.The Price-Anderson Act is a federal law that limits the liability for claims from an incident involving any licensed United States commercial nuclear energy center. The limit is based on the number of licensed reactors. The limit of liability and the maximum potential annual payments are adjusted at least every five years for inflation to reflect changes in the Consumer Price Index. The most recent five-year inflationary adjustment became effective in September 2013. Owners of a nuclear reactor cover this exposure through a combination of private insurance and mandatory participation in a financial protection pool, as established by the Price-Anderson Act.Losses resulting from terrorist attacks on nuclear facilities are covered under NEIL's policies, subject to an industrywide aggregate policy limit of $3.24 billion within a 12-month period, or $1.83 billion for events not involving radiation contamination.If losses from a nuclear incident at the Callaway energy center exceed the limits of, or are not covered by, insurance, or if coverage is unavailable, Ameren Missouri is at risk for any uninsured losses. If a serious nuclear incident were to occur, it could have a material adverse effect on Ameren's and Ameren Missouri's results of operations, financial position, or liquidity.
Other ObligationsTo supply a portion of the fuel requirements of Ameren Missouri's energy centers, Ameren Missouri has entered into various long-term commitments for the procurement of coal, natural gas, nuclear fuel, and methane gas. Additionally, Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois also have entered into various long-
term commitments for purchased power and natural gas for
distribution. For a complete listing of our obligations and
commitments, see Note 15 - Commitments and Contingencies
under Part II, Item 8 of the Form 10-K. At March31, 2015, total other obligations related to commitments for coal, natural gas, nuclear fuel, purchased power, methane gas, equipment, customer energy efficiency
program expenditures and meter reading services, among other agreements, at Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois were $5,326 million, $3,577 million, and $1,702 million, respectively. In April 2015, Ameren Illinois used an RFP process, administered by the IPA, to procure energy products from June1, 2015, through May31, 2018. Ameren Illinois contracted to purchase approximately 5,526,000 megawatthours of energy products for $185 million during this period.
Environmental MattersWe are subject to various environmental laws and regulations enforced by federal, state, and local authorities. From the beginning phases of siting and development to the operation
of existing or new electric generation, transmission and
distribution facilities and natural gas storage, transmission and
distribution facilities, our activities involve compliance with diverse environmental laws and regulations. These laws and regulations address emissions, discharges to water, water usage, impacts to air, land, and water, and chemical and waste handling.
Complex and lengthy processes are required to obtain and renew approvals, permits, or licenses for new, existing or modified facilities. Additionally, the use and handling of various chemicals
or hazardous materials require release prevention plans and
emergency response procedures.The EPA is developing and implementing environmental regulations that will have a significant impact on the electric utility industry. Over time, compliance with these regulations could be costly for certain companies, including Ameren Missouri, that
operate coal-fired power plants. Significant new rules proposed
or promulgated include the regulation of CO 2 emissions from existing power plants through the proposed Clean Power Plan
and from new power plants through the revised NSPS; the
CSAPR, which requires further reductions of SO 2 emissions and NOx emissions from power plants; a regulation governing management of CCR and CCR landfills and impoundments; the MATS, which require reduction of emissions of mercury, toxic
metals, and acid gases from power plants; revised NSPS for particulate matter, SO 2, and NOx emissions from new sources; new effluent standards applicable to waste water discharges from power plants and new regulations under the Clean Water Act that
could require significant capital expenditures, such as
modifications to water intake structures or new cooling towers at Ameren Missouri's energy centers. Certain of these new and
proposed regulations, if adopted, are likely to be challenged
through litigation, so their ultimate implementation, as well as the timing of any such implementation, is uncertain. Although many
details of the future regulations are unknown, the combined effects of the new and proposed environmental regulations could
result in significant capital expenditures and increased operating 35costs for Ameren and Ameren Missouri. The EPA also periodically reviews and revises national ambient air quality standards, including those standards associated with particulate matter,
ozone, and emissions from power plants such as SO 2, NOx. Compliance with all of these environmental laws and regulations
could be prohibitively expensive, result in the closure or alteration of the operation of some of Ameren Missouri's energy centers, or require capital investment. Ameren and Ameren Missouri expect
these costs would be recoverable through rates, subject to MoPSC prudence review, but the nature and timing of costs, as
well as the applicable regulatory framework, could result in
regulatory lag.As of March31, 2015, Ameren and Ameren Missouri estimate capital expenditure investments of $350 million to $400 million through 2019 to comply with existing environmental
regulations. Considerable uncertainty remains in this estimate.
The actual amount of capital investments required to comply with
existing environmental regulations may vary substantially from
the above estimate due to uncertainty as to the precise
compliance strategies that will be used and their ultimate cost, among other things. This estimate does not include the impacts of the proposed Clean Power Plan's reduction in emissions of
CO2, but does include our preliminary estimate of the capital expenditures required for the CCR regulations that were published in April 2015, both of which are discussed below.
Ameren Missouri's current plan for compliance with existing environmental regulations for air emissions includes burning
ultra-low-sulfur coal and installing new or optimizing existing pollution control equipment. Ameren Missouri has two scrubbers at its Sioux energy center, which are used to reduce SO 2 emissions and other pollutants. Ameren Missouri's compliance
plan assumes the installation of additional controls, including
mercury control technology at multiple energy centers within its coal-fired fleet through 2019. However, Ameren Missouri
continues to evaluate its operations and options to determine how to comply with the CSAPR, the MATS, and other recently finalized or proposed EPA regulations. Ameren Missouri may be
required to install additional pollution controls within the next six to 10 years. As the Clean Power Plan is still subject to revision by the EPA and implementation by the states, Ameren Missouri has
not finalized a compliance plan for the proposed rule.
The following sections describe the more significant new or proposed environmental laws and rules and environmental enforcement and remediation matters that affect or could affect
our operations.Clean Air Act Both federal and state laws require significant reductions in SO2 and NOx through either emission source reductions or the use and retirement of emission allowances. The CSAPR became effective on January 1, 2015, for SO 2 and annual NO x reductions, and on May 1, 2015, for ozone season NO x reductions. There will be further emission reduction requirements in 2017 and potentially more in subsequent years. Ameren Missouri expects to have sufficiently reduced emissions and have sufficient allowances to avoid making external purchases to comply with CSAPR for 2015. To achieve compliance with CSAPR, Ameren
Missouri operates two scrubbers at its Sioux energy center and burns ultra-low sulfur coal. Ameren Missouri does not expect to
make additional capital investments to comply with the current CSAPR requirements. However, Ameren Missouri expects to
incur additional operations and maintenance costs to lower its
emissions at one or more of its energy centers for compliance with the CSAPR in future years. These higher operations and
maintenance costs are expected to be collected from customers through the FAC or higher base rates.In December 2011, the EPA issued the MATS under the Clean Air Act, which requires reductions in emissions of mercury
and other hazardous air pollutants, such as acid gases, trace metals, and hydrogen chloride. The United States Supreme Court is considering challenges to the MATS, with a decision expected in June 2015. The MATS do not require a specific control technology to achieve the emission reductions. The MATS apply to each unit at a coal-fired power plant. However, in certain
cases, compliance can be achieved by averaging emissions from
similar units at the same power plant. Compliance was required by April 2015 or, with a case-by-case extension, by April 2016.
Ameren Missouri's Labadie and Meramec energy centers were granted extensions and expect to comply with the MATS by April 2016. Ameren Missouri expects to make additional capital
investments at its Labadie and Meramec energy centers to comply with the MATS. These capital expenditure investments are included in Ameren's and Ameren Missouri's estimate above.
In addition, Ameren Missouri is incurring additional operations
and maintenance costs to lower its emissions at its energy centers in compliance with the MATS. These higher operations
and maintenance costs are expected to be collected from customers through the FAC or higher base rates.In December 2014, the EPA published its proposal to strengthen the 2008 national ambient air quality standard for ozone. A final standard is expected in October 2015, after which
states that do not meet the standard must develop and implement plans to achieve compliance. Ameren Missouri is
currently evaluating the proposed standard and the possible effects on its operations.
Greenhouse Gas Regulation Greenhouse gas emissions from stationary sources, such as power plants, are subject to regulation under the Clean Air Act. As a result, Ameren Missouri is required to consider the
emissions of greenhouse gases in any air permit application.In January 2014, the EPA published proposed regulations that would set revised CO 2 emissions standards for new power plants. The proposed standards would establish separate
emissions limits for new natural-gas-fired plants and new coal-fired plants. In June 2014, the EPA proposed the Clean Power
Plan, which sets forth CO 2 emissions standards that would be applicable to existing power plants. The proposed Clean Power
Plan would require each state to develop plans to achieve CO 2 emission standards that the EPA calculated for each state. The 36EPA believes that the Clean Power Plan would achieve a 30%
reduction in the nation's existing power plant CO 2 emissions from 2005 levels by 2030. The proposed rule also has interim goals of
aggressively reducing CO 2 emissions by 2020. The EPA expects the proposed rule will be finalized in 2015. If the proposed rule is
finalized, states would have one to three years to develop
compliance plans. States would be allowed to develop
independent plans or to join with other states to develop joint plans. Ameren Missouri is evaluating the proposed Clean Power
Plan and the potential impact to its operations, including those related to electric system reliability. Significant uncertainty exists
regarding the standard for existing power plants, as the finalized rule could be different from the proposed rule and will be subject
to legal challenges, either of which could result in the amount and
timing of CO 2 emission standards being revised.
If the proposed Clean Power Plan were to be implemented in its current form, Ameren Missouri may need to incur new or
accelerated capital expenditures and increased fuel costs in order to achieve compliance. As proposed, the Clean Power Plan
would require states, including Missouri and Illinois, to submit
compliance plans as early as 2016. Compliance plans might require Ameren Missouri to construct natural gas-fired combined
cycle generation and renewable generation, at a currently estimated cost of approximately $2 billion by 2020, that Ameren
Missouri believes would otherwise not be necessary to meet the energy needs of its customers. Additionally, Missouri's
implementation of the proposed rules, if adopted, could result in the closure or alteration of the operation of some of Ameren Missouri's coal and natural gas-fired energy centers, which could
result in increased operating costs or impairment of assets.
Ameren Missouri expects substantially all of these increased
costs, which could begin in 2017, to be recoverable, subject to MoPSC prudence review, through substantially higher electric
rates charged to its customers.
Future federal and state legislation or regulations that mandate limits on the emission of greenhouse gases may result
in significant increases in capital expenditures and operating
costs, which could lead to increased liquidity needs and higher financing costs. These compliance costs could be prohibitive at some of Ameren Missouri's energy centers, which could result in
the impairment of long-lived assets if costs are not recovered
through rates. Mandatory limits on the emission of greenhouse gases could increase costs for Ameren Missouri's customers or have a material adverse effect on Ameren's and Ameren
Missouri's results of operations, financial position, and liquidity if
regulators delay or deny recovery in rates of these compliance costs. The cost of Ameren Illinois' purchased power and gas purchased for resale could increase; however, Ameren Illinois
expects these costs would be recovered from customers with no material adverse effect on its results of operations, financial position, or liquidity. Ameren's and Ameren Missouri's earnings
might benefit from increased investment to comply with
greenhouse gas limitations to the extent that the investments are
reflected and recovered timely in rates charged to customers.NSR and Clean Air Litigation In January 2011, the Department of Justice, on behalf of the EPA, filed a complaint against Ameren Missouri in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri. The EPA's complaint, as amended in October 2013, alleges that in
performing projects at its Rush Island coal-fired energy center in 2007 and 2010, Ameren Missouri violated provisions of the Clean Air Act and Missouri law. In January 2012, the district court granted, in part, Ameren Missouri's motion to dismiss various aspects of the EPA's penalty claims. The EPA's claims for unspecified injunctive relief remain. Ameren Missouri believes its defenses are meritorious and is defending itself vigorously.
However, there can be no assurances that it will be successful in its efforts. The ultimate resolution of this matter could have a material adverse effect on the future results of operations, financial position, and liquidity of Ameren and Ameren Missouri. A
resolution could result in increased capital expenditures for the
installation of pollution control equipment, increased operations and maintenance expenses, and penalties. We are unable to
predict the ultimate resolution of these matters or the costs that
might be incurred. Clean Water ActIn August 2014, the EPA published the final rule applicable to cooling water intake structures at existing power plants.The rule requires a case-by-case evaluation and plan for reducing the mortality of aquatic organisms impinged on the facility's intake
screens or entrained through the plant's cooling water system.
Implementation of this rule will be administered through each power plant's water discharge permitting process. All coal-fired and nuclear energy centers at Ameren Missouri are subject to this rule. The rule could have an adverse effect on Ameren's and Ameren Missouri's results of operations, financial position, and
liquidity if its implementation requires the installation of cooling
towers or extensive modifications to the cooling water systems at
our energy centers and if those investments are not recovered
timely in electric rates charged to its customers.In April 2013, the EPA announced its proposal to revise the effluent limitation guidelines applicable to steam electric generating units under the Clean Water Act. Effluent limitation
guidelines are national standards for wastewater discharges to surface water that are based on the effectiveness of available control technology. The EPA's proposed rule raised several compliance options that would prohibit effluent discharges of
certain, but not all, waste streams and impose more stringent
limitations on certain components in wastewater discharges from power plants. If the rule is enacted as proposed, Ameren Missouri
would be subject to the revised limitations beginning as early as July 1, 2017, but no later than July 1, 2022. The EPA is expected
to issue final guidelines in September 2015.
Ash ManagementIn December 2014, the EPA issued regulations regarding the management and disposal of CCR, which will affect future CCR 37disposal and handling costs at Ameren Missouri's energy centers. The final CCR regulations were published in April 2015. The
regulations allow for the management of CCR as a solid waste,
as well as for its continued beneficial uses, such as recycling, which could reduce the amount to be disposed. The regulations also established criteria regarding the structural integrity, location, and operation of CCR impoundments and landfills. They require
groundwater monitoring and closure of impoundments if the groundwater standards are not achieved. Ameren Missouri is
currently evaluating the regulations to determine their impact on
current management of CCR and the costs associated with compliance. Ameren Missouri also expects to record an increase to its ARO associated with CCR storage facilities as a result of
the new regulations. See Note 1 - Summary of Significant
Accounting Policies in this report for additional information.
Ameren Missouri's capital expenditure plan includes the cost of
constructing landfills as part of its environmental compliance plan. Ameren Missouri expects certain of its ash ponds could be
closed within the next five years.
The new regulations do not apply to inactive ash ponds at plants no longer in operation, such as Ameren's Meredosia and
Hutsonville energy centers.
RemediationWe are involved in a number of remediation actions to clean up sites affected by hazardous substances, as required by federal and state law. Such laws require that responsible parties
fund remediation actions regardless of their degree of fault, the
legality of original disposal, or the ownership of a disposal site.
Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois have each been identified
by federal or state governments as a potentially responsible party
at several contaminated sites. As of March31, 2015, Ameren Illinois owned or was otherwise responsible for 44 former MGP sites in Illinois, which
are in various stages of investigation, evaluation, remediation, and closure. Ameren Illinois estimates it could substantially conclude remediation efforts at most of these sites by 2018. The ICC allows Ameren Illinois to recover remediation and litigation costs associated with its former MGP sites from its electric and
natural gas utility customers through environmental adjustment rate riders. To be recoverable, such costs must be prudently incurred. Costs are subject to annual review by the ICC. As of March31, 2015, Ameren Illinois estimated the obligation related to these former MGP sites at $245 million to $314 million.
Ameren and Ameren Illinois recorded a liability of $245 million to
represent their estimated minimum obligation for these sites, as
no other amount within the range was a better estimate. The scope and extent to which these former MGP sites are remediated may increase as remediation efforts continue.
Considerable uncertainty remains in these estimates, as many
factors can influence the ultimate actual costs, including site
specific unanticipated underground structures, the degree to
which groundwater is encountered, regulatory changes, local ordinances, and site accessibility. The actual costs may vary
substantially from these estimates.Ameren Illinois formerly used an off-site landfill, which Ameren Illinois did not own, in connection with the operation of a previously-owned energy center. Ameren Illinois could be
required to perform certain maintenance activities at that landfill, which is now closed. As of March31, 2015, Ameren Illinois estimated the obligation related to the landfill at $0.5 million to $6 million. Ameren Illinois recorded a liability of $0.5 million to
represent its estimated minimum obligation for this site, as no other amount within the range was a better estimate. Ameren
Illinois is also responsible for the cleanup of some underground storage tanks and a water treatment plant in Illinois. As of March31, 2015, Ameren Illinois recorded a liability of $0.7 million
to represent its best estimate of the obligation for these sites.In 2008, the EPA issued an administrative order to Ameren Missouri pertaining to a former coal tar distillery operated by
Koppers Company or its predecessor and successor companies.
While Ameren Missouri is the current owner of the site, which is
located in St. Louis, Missouri, it did not conduct any of the
manufacturing operations involving coal tar or its byproducts.
Ameren Missouri, along with two other potentially responsible
parties, have completed site investigation activities and have submitted their findings to the EPA. As of March31, 2015, Ameren Missouri estimated its obligation at $2 million to $5 million. Ameren Missouri recorded a liability of $2 million to
represent its estimated minimum obligation, as no other amount
within the range was a better estimate.
Ameren Missouri also participated in the investigation of various sites located in Sauget, Illinois. In 2000, the EPA notified
Ameren Missouri and numerous other companies, including
Solutia, Inc., that former landfills and lagoons at those sites may contain soil and groundwater contamination. These sites are known as Sauget Area 2. From about 1926 until 1976, Ameren Missouri operated an energy center adjacent to Sauget Area 2.
Ameren Missouri currently owns a parcel of property at Sauget
Area 2 that was once used as a landfill. In December 2013, the EPA issued its record of decision for Sauget Area 2 approving the investigation and the remediation
alternatives recommended by the potentially responsible parties.
Further negotiation among the potentially responsible parties will determine how to fund the implementation of the EPA-approved cleanup remedies. As of March31, 2015, Ameren Missouri estimated its obligation related to Sauget Area 2 at $1 million to
$2.5 million. Ameren Missouri recorded a liability of $1 million to
represent its estimated minimum obligation for this site, as no
other amount within the range was a better estimate.In December 2012, Ameren Missouri signed an administrative order with the EPA and agreed to investigate soil and groundwater conditions at an Ameren Missouri-owned substation in St. Charles, Missouri. As of March31, 2015,
Ameren Missouri estimated the obligation related to the cleanup at $2.3 million to $4.5 million. Ameren Missouri recorded a liability of $2.3 million to represent its estimated minimum obligation for
this site, as no other amount within the range was a better
estimate.
38Our operations or those of our predecessor companies involve the use of, disposal of, and in appropriate circumstances, the cleanup of substances regulated under environmental laws.
We are unable to determine whether such practices will result in future environmental commitments or will affect our results of operations, financial position, or liquidity.
Pumped-storage Hydroelectric Facility Breach In December 2005, there was a breach of the upper reservoir at Ameren Missouri's Taum Sauk pumped-storage hydroelectric energy center. The breach resulted in significant flooding in the local area, which damaged a state park. Ameren Missouri had liability insurance coverage for the Taum Sauk
incident, subject to certain limits and deductibles. In 2010, Ameren Missouri sued an insurance company that was providing Ameren Missouri with liability coverage on the date of the Taum Sauk incident. In the litigation, Ameren Missouri
claims that the insurance company breached its duty to indemnify
Ameren Missouri for losses resulting from the incident. In
September 2014, the United States District Court for the Eastern
District of Missouri ordered the case to be transferred to the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York for trial. The transfer order has been stayed pending resolution of Ameren Missouri's October 2014 appeal of that order to the United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit. As of March31, 2015, Ameren Missouri had an insurance receivable balance of $41 million. The insurance claim was $53 million as of March 31, 2015. Ameren Missouri expects to collect
this receivable from the remaining insurance company in the pending litigation described above. This receivable is included in "Other assets" on Ameren's and Ameren Missouri's balance sheets as of March31, 2015. Ameren's and Ameren Missouri's
results of operations, financial position, and liquidity could be adversely affected if Ameren Missouri's remaining insurance
receivable balance is not collected.
Asbestos-related LitigationAmeren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois have been named, along with numerous other parties, in a number of lawsuits filed by plaintiffs claiming varying degrees of injury from
asbestos exposure at our present or former energy centers. Most have been filed in the Circuit Court of Madison County, Illinois.
The total number of defendants named in each case varies, with 77 as the average number of parties as of March31, 2015. Each
lawsuit seeks unspecified damages that, if awarded at trial,
typically would be shared among the various defendants.
The following table presents the pending asbestos-related lawsuits filed against the Ameren Companies as of March31,
2015:AmerenAmerenMissouriAmerenIllinoisTotal(a)1425365(a) Total does not equal the sum of the subsidiary unit lawsuits because some of the lawsuits name multiple Ameren entities as defendants.As of March31, 2015, Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois had liabilities of $12 million, $5 million, and $7 million, respectively, recorded to represent their best estimate of
their obligations related to asbestos claims.Ameren Illinois has a tariff rider to recover the costs of IP asbestos-related litigation claims, subject to the following terms:
90% of cash expenditures in excess of the amount included in
base electric rates are to be recovered from a trust fund that was established when Ameren acquired IP. At March31, 2015, the trust fund balance was $22 million, including accumulated
interest. If cash expenditures are less than the amount in base rates, Ameren Illinois will contribute 90% of the difference to the trust fund. Once the trust fund is depleted, 90% of allowed cash
expenditures in excess of base rates will be recovered through charges assessed to customers under the tariff rider. The rider will permit recovery from customers within IP's historical service territory.NOTE 10 - CALLAWAY ENERGY CENTERUnder the NWPA, the DOE is responsible for disposing of spent nuclear fuel from the Callaway energy center and other commercial nuclear energy centers. Under the NWPA, Ameren
and other utilities that own and operate those energy centers are responsible for paying the disposal costs. The NWPA established
the fee that these utilities pay the federal government for disposing of the spent nuclear fuel at one mill, or one-tenth of one
cent, for each kilowatthour generated and sold by those plants.
The NWPA also requires the DOE annually to review the nuclear
waste fee against the cost of the nuclear waste disposal program
and to propose to the United States Congress any fee adjustment necessary to offset the costs of the program. As required by the NWPA, Ameren Missouri and other utilities have entered into standard contracts with the federal government. The government,
represented by the DOE, is responsible for implementing these provisions of the NWPA. Consistent with the NWPA and its standard contract, Ameren Missouri had historically collected one
mill from its electric customers for each kilowatthour of electricity that it generated and sold from its Callaway energy center.
Because the federal government is not meeting its disposal
obligation, the collection of this fee is currently suspended.Although both the NWPA and the standard contract stated that the federal government would begin to dispose of spent
nuclear fuel by 1998, the federal government is not meeting its disposal obligation. Ameren Missouri has sufficient installed
capacity at the Callaway energy center to store its spent nuclear
fuel generated through 2020, and it has the capability to add additional dry cask storage capacity. The DOE's delay in carrying
out its obligation to dispose of spent nuclear fuel from the Callaway energy center is not expected to adversely affect the continued operations of the energy center.
In January 2013, the DOE issued its plan for the management and disposal of spent nuclear fuel. The DOE's plan
calls for a pilot interim storage facility to begin operation with an
initial focus on accepting spent nuclear fuel from shutdown
reactor sites by 2021. By 2025, a larger interim storage facility 39would be available. The plan also proposes to begin operation of a permanent storage facility by 2048.
As a result of the DOE's failure to begin to dispose of spent nuclear fuel from commercial nuclear energy centers and fulfill its contractual obligations, Ameren Missouri and other nuclear
energy center owners have also sued the DOE to recover costs incurred for ongoing storage of their spent fuel. Ameren Missouri
filed a breach of contract lawsuit to recover coststhat it incurred through 2009. The lawsuit sought reimbursement for the cost of reracking the Callaway energy center's spent fuel pool, for certain NRC fees, and for Missouri ad valorem taxes that Ameren
Missouri would not have incurred had the DOE performed its contractual obligations. The parties entered into a settlement
agreement that provides for annual recovery of additional spent
fuel storage and related costs incurred from 2010 through 2016,
with the ability to extend the recovery period as mutually agreed
upon by the parties. Included in these reimbursements are costs related to a dry spent fuel storage facility that Ameren Missouri is constructing at its Callaway energy center. Ameren Missouri
intends to begin transferring spent fuel assemblies to this facility in 2015. Ameren Missouri will continue to apply for
reimbursement from the DOE for the cost to construct and
operate the dry spent fuel storage facility along with related
allowable costs.In March 2015, the NRC approved Ameren Missouri's application to extend its Callaway energy center's operating
license from 2024 to 2044.
Electric utility rates charged to customers provide for the recovery of the Callaway energy center's decommissioning costs,
which include decontamination, dismantling, and site restoration costs, over the expected life of the nuclear energy center.
Amounts collected from customers are deposited into the
external nuclear decommissioning trust fund to provide for the Callaway energy center's decommissioning. It is assumed that
the Callaway energy center site will be decommissioned through
the immediate dismantlement method and removed from service.
Ameren and Ameren Missouri have recorded an ARO for the
Callaway energy center decommissioning costs at fair value,
which represents the present value of estimated future cash outflows. Annual decommissioning costs of $7 million are included in the costs used to establish electric rates for Ameren
Missouri's customers. Every three years, the MoPSC requires
Ameren Missouri to file an updated cost study and funding analysis for decommissioning its Callaway energy center.
Following the NRC's decision to approve Ameren Missouri's
operating license extension application, an updated cost study
and a revised funding analysis were filed with the MoPSC on April 1, 2015. Ameren Missouri's April 2015 filing supported no
change to the decommissioning cost included in electric service rates. There is no time requirement by which the MoPSC must
issue an order regarding the decommissioning cost included in Ameren Missouri's electric service rates.If the assumed return on
trust assets is not earned, we believe that it is probable that any such earnings deficiency will be recovered in rates. The fair value of the trust fund for Ameren Missouri's Callaway energy center is reported as "Nuclear decommissioning trust fund" in Ameren's and Ameren Missouri's balance sheets. This amount is legally
restricted and may be used only to fund the costs of nuclear
decommissioning. Changes in the fair value of the trust fund are
recorded as an increase or decrease to the nuclear decommissioning trust fund, with an offsetting adjustment to the related regulatory liability.NOTE 11 - RETIREMENT BENEFITSAmeren's pension plans are funded in compliance with income tax regulations and to meet federal funding or regulatory requirements. As a result, Ameren expects to fund its pension plans at a level equal to the greater of the pension expense or the legally required minimum contribution. Considering Ameren's assumptions at March31, 2015, the plan's estimated investment performance through March31, 2015, and Ameren's pension funding policy, Ameren expects to make annual contributions of $25 million to $115 million through 2019, with aggregate estimated contributions of $290 million. These amounts are estimates which may change with actual investment performance, changes in interest rates, any pertinent changes in government regulations, and any voluntary contributions. Separately, our policy for postretirement benefits is primarily to fund the voluntary employees' beneficiary association trusts to match the annual postretirement
expense.
40The following table presents the components of the net periodic benefit cost (benefit) for Ameren's pension and postretirement benefit plans for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014:
Pension BenefitsPostretirement Benefits Three Months Three Months 2015201420152014 Service cost
$24$21$5$5Interest cost 44491213Expected return on plan assets(62)(57)(17)(16)Amortization of:
Prior service benefit
--(1)(1)Actuarial loss (gain) 18121(1)Net periodic benefit cost
$24$25$-$-Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois are responsible for their respective shares of Ameren's pension and postretirement costs. The following table presents the pension costs and the postretirement benefit costs incurred for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014:Pension BenefitsPostretirement Benefits Three Months Three Months 2015201420152014 Ameren Missouri
$15$17$1$1Ameren Illinois 98(1)(1)Ameren(a)$24$25$-$-(a) Includes amounts for Ameren registrants and nonregistrant subsidiaries.NOTE 12 - DIVESTITURE TRANSACTIONS AND DISCONTINUED OPERATIONSOn December 2, 2013, Ameren completed the divestiture of New AER to IPH in accordance with the transaction agreement between Ameren and IPH dated March 14, 2013, as amended by a letter agreement dated December 2, 2013. The transaction
agreement with IPH, as amended, provides that if the Elgin, Gibson City, and Grand Tower gas-fired energy centers are subsequently sold by Medina Valley and if Medina Valley receives additional proceeds from such sale, Medina Valley will pay Genco
any proceeds from such sale, net of taxes and other expenses, in excess of the $137.5 million previously paid to Genco.On January 31, 2014, Medina Valley completed the sale of the Elgin, Gibson City, and Grand Tower gas-fired energy centers to Rockland Capital for a total purchase price of $168 million, before consideration of a net working capital adjustment. The agreement with Rockland Capital required $17 million of the
purchase price to be held in escrow until January 31, 2016, to fund certain indemnity obligations, if any, of Medina Valley. The
Rockland Capital escrow receivable balance and the corresponding payable due to Genco is reflected on Ameren's
March 31, 2015 consolidated balance sheet in "Other current assets" and in "Other current liabilities," respectively. Medina Valley expects to pay Genco any remaining portion of the escrow balance on January 31, 2016. Ameren did not record a gain from its sale of the Elgin, Gibson City, and Grand Tower gas-fired
energy centers.
Discontinued Operations PresentationSee Note 16 - Divestiture Transactions and Discontinued Operations under Part II, Item 8, of the Form 10-K for additional information related to disposal groups. The final tax basis of the AER disposal group and the related tax benefit resulting from the transaction with IPH
are dependent upon the resolution of tax matters under audit. It is reasonably possible that in the next 12 months these tax audits will be completed. As a result, tax expense and benefits ultimately realized from the divestitures, including the final resolution of Ameren's uncertain tax positions, may differ materially from those recorded as of and for the three months ended March31, 2015. The assets and liabilities of Ameren's discontinued operations at March 31, 2015, and December 31, 2014, consist primarily of AROs and related deferred income tax
assets associated with the abandoned Meredosia and Hutsonville energy centers.
Pursuant to the IPH transaction agreement, as amended, Ameren is obligated to pay up to $25 million for certain contingent liabilities as of March31, 2015, which were included in "Other current liabilities" on Ameren's March31, 2015 consolidated
balance sheet.
The note receivable from Marketing Company related to the cash collateral support provided to New AER was $12 million at March 31, 2015, and December 31, 2014, and was reflected on
Ameren's consolidated balance sheet in "Miscellaneous accounts and notes receivable." This receivable is due to Ameren, with
interest, on December 2, 2015, or sooner as cash collateral
requirements are reduced. In addition, as of March 31, 2015, if Ameren's credit ratings had been below investment grade,
Ameren could have been required to post additional cash collateral in support of New AER in the amount of $20 million, 41which includes $10 million currently covered by Ameren guarantees. This cash collateral support is part of Ameren's obligation to provide certain limited credit support to New AER until December 2, 2015, as discussed below.
Ameren Guarantees and Letters of Credit The IPH transaction agreement, as amended, requires Ameren to maintain its financial obligations with respect to all credit support provided to New AER as of the December 2, 2013 closing date of the divestiture. Ameren must also provide such
additional credit support as required by contracts entered into
prior to the closing date, in each case until December 2, 2015.
IPH shall indemnify Ameren for any payments Ameren makes
pursuant to these credit support obligations if the counterparty does not return the posted collateral to Ameren. IPH's indemnification obligation is secured by certain AERG and Genco
assets. In addition, Dynegy has provided a limited guarantee of
$25 million to Ameren pursuant to which Dynegy will, among
other things, guarantee IPH's indemnification obligations until
December 2, 2015.In addition to the $25 million of contingent liabilities recorded on Ameren's March31, 2015 consolidated balance sheet, Ameren had a total of $105 million in guarantees outstanding for New AER that were not recorded on Ameren's March31, 2015
consolidated balance sheet, which included:* $103 million related to guarantees supporting Marketing Company for physically and financially settled power
transactions with its counterparties that were in place at the
December 2, 2013 closing of the divestiture, as well as for
Marketing Company's clearing broker and other service
agreements. If Marketing Company did not fulfill its
obligations to these counterparties who had active open positions as of March31, 2015, Ameren would have been required under its guarantees to provide $10 million to the
counterparties. * $2 million related to requirements for lease agreements and potential environmental obligations. If New AER had not fulfilled its lease obligation as of March 31, 2015, Ameren would have been required to provide $1 million to the lease counterparty.Additionally, at March31, 2015, Ameren had issued letters of credit totaling $9 million as credit support on behalf of New AER.Ameren has not recorded a liability for these contingent obligations because it does not believe a payment with respect to
any of these guarantees or letters of credit was probable as of March31, 2015.NOTE 13 - SEGMENT INFORMATIONAmeren has two reportable segments: Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois. Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois each have one reportable segment. The Ameren Missouri segment for both Ameren and Ameren Missouri includes all of the operations of Ameren Missouri's business as described in Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies. The Ameren Illinois segment for both Ameren and Ameren Illinois includes all of the operations of Ameren Illinois' business as described in Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies. The category called Other primarily includes Ameren parent company activities, Ameren Services, and ATXI. The following table presents information about the reported revenues and specified items reflected in Ameren's net income attributable to Ameren Corporation from continuing operations for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, and total assets of continuing operations as of March31, 2015, and December31, 2014.
Three Months AmerenMissouriAmerenIllinoisOtherIntersegmentEliminationsAmeren 2015External revenues$793$744$
19$-$1,556Intersegment revenues 711(9)-Net income attributable to Ameren Corporation from continuing operations 415314-1082014External revenues$811$774$9$-$1,594Intersegment revenues 6-1(7)-Net income (loss) attributable to Ameren Corporation from continuing operations 4753(3)-97As of March 31, 2015:
Total assets$13,555$8,456$1,082$(224)$
22,869(a)As of December 31, 2014:
Total assets$13,541$8,381$942$(203)$
22,661(a)(a) Excludes total assets from discontinued operations of $15 million as of March31, 2015, and December 31, 2014.
42ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.
The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the financial statements contained in this Form 10-Q as well as Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition
and Results of Operations and Risk Factors contained in the Form 10-K.We intend for this discussion to provide the reader
with information that will assist in understanding our financial
statements, the changes in certain key items in those financial
statements, and the primary factors that accounted for those changes, as well as how certain accounting principles affect our financial statements. The discussion also provides information
about the financial results of our business segments to provide a
better understanding of how those segments and their results affect the financial condition and results of operations of Ameren as a whole. Also see the Glossary of Terms and Abbreviations at
the front of this report and in the Form 10-K.
Ameren, headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, is a public utility holding company under PUHCA 2005, administered by the FERC. Ameren's primary assets are its equity interests in its subsidiaries, including Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois.
Ameren's subsidiaries are separate, independent legal entities
with separate businesses, assets, and liabilities. Dividends on Ameren's common stock and the payment of expenses by
Ameren depend on distributions made to it by its subsidiaries.
Ameren's principal subsidiaries are listed below.
- Union Electric Company, doing business as Ameren
Missouri, operates a rate-regulated electric generation,
transmission and distribution business and a rate-regulated
natural gas transmission and distribution business in
operates rate-regulated electric and natural gas transmission
and distribution businesses in Illinois.
Ameren has various other subsidiaries that conduct activities such as the provision of shared services. Ameren also has a subsidiary, ATXI, that operates a FERC rate-regulated electric transmission business. ATXI is developing MISO-
approved electric transmission projects, including the Illinois Rivers, Spoon River, and Mark Twain projects. Ameren is also pursuing reliability projects within Ameren Missouri's and Ameren Illinois' service territories as well as competitive electric
transmission investment opportunities outside of these territories,
including investments outside of MISO.
The operating results, assets, and liabilities of the Elgin, Gibson City, Grand Tower, Meredosia, and Hutsonville energy
centers have been presented separately as discontinued
operations for all periods presented in this report. Unless otherwise stated, the following sections of Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations exclude discontinued operations for all periods presented. See Note 12 - Divestiture Transactions and
Discontinued Operations under Part I, Item 1, of this report for
additional information regarding the discontinued operations presentation. See Note 16 - Divestiture Transactions and Discontinued Operations under Part II, Item 8, of the Form 10-K
for additional information regarding the divestiture transactions.The financial statements of Ameren are prepared on a consolidated basis, and therefore include the accounts of its majority-owned subsidiaries. All intercompany transactions have been eliminated. Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois have no
subsidiaries, and therefore their financial statements are not prepared on a consolidated basis. All tabular dollar amounts are
in millions, unless otherwise indicated.
In addition to presenting results of operations and earnings amounts in total, we present certain information in cents per share. These amounts reflect factors that directly affect Ameren's earnings. We believe this per share information helps readers to understand the impact of these factors on Ameren's earnings per
share.OVERVIEWNet income attributable to Ameren Corporation from continuing operations was $108 million in the first quarter of 2015, compared with $97 million in the first quarter of 2014. Net income was favorably affected by higher rates for Ameren Illinois and ATXI electric transmission service and Ameren Illinois electric
delivery service, each under formula ratemaking, driven by
additional rate base investment. Net income was also favorably affected by a decrease in other operations and maintenance
expenses at those businesses not operating under formula rates as well as decreased interest expenses at Ameren (parent).
Additionally, earnings increased as a result of a January 2015 ICC order regarding Ameren Illinois' cumulative power usage costs and its purchased power rider mechanism. These earnings increases were partially offset by decreased electric and natural
gas demand primarily due to milder winter temperatures and energy efficiency. In addition, net income was unfavorably affected by the recognition of a liability for a potential refund to
customers due to an expected reduction in the FERC-allowed return on equity related to Ameren Illinois and ATXI transmission
service and by a lower recognized return on equity related to
Ameren Illinois electric delivery service as a result of decreased yields on 30-year United States Treasury bonds. Ameren's earnings were also negatively affected by increased depreciation
and amortization expenses for those businesses not operating under formula rates and increased financing costs at Ameren
Ameren continues to execute its strategy of investing in and operating its utilities in a manner consistent with existing
regulatory frameworks, enhancing those frameworks and
advocating for responsible energy policies, as well as creating
and capitalizing on opportunities for investment for the benefit of its customers and shareholders. Ameren continues to
strategically allocate significant amounts of capital to those
businesses where investment is supported by constructive
regulatory frameworks, investing approximately $270 million of its
$417 million in capital expenditures during the first quarter of
2015 in FERC-regulated electric transmission projects and 43Ameren Illinois electric and natural gas delivery service infrastructure. Work on ATXI's Illinois Rivers transmission project is advancing as planned. These additional rate base investments
continue to drive earnings growth.
Ameren remains actively engaged in advocating for responsible energy policies, including those that would ensure the protection of the electric system's reliability. In response to the proposed Clean Power Plan, Ameren Missouri has proposed
a plan, including eliminating interim targets and allowing states to determine the best path to address the EPA's final targets. The
plan would achieve the final level of CO 2 emissions reductions proposed in the EPA's Clean Power Plan but would do so in a less costly manner. The plan includes continued reliance on nuclear generation from Ameren Missouri's Callaway energy center, which received approval from the NRC in March 2015 to
operate through 2044.
In addition to prudently investing in its utilities and advocating for responsible energy policies, Ameren remains focused on achieving operational improvements and efficiencies
across all of its businesses.In April 2015, the MoPSC issued an order approving an increase in Ameren Missouri's annual revenues for electric service of$122 million, incorporating a 9.53%allowed return on common equity and a $7.0 billion rate base to reflect investments through December 31, 2014. The order approved Ameren Missouri's request for continued use of the FAC; however, it changed the FAC to exclude substantially all transmission
charges and revenues. In addition, the order did not approve the
continued use of the regulatory tracking mechanisms for storm
costs and vegetation management and infrastructure inspection
costs. Rate changes consistent with the order will become effective on May 30, 2015. Ameren Missouri will request a rehearing on several aspects of the MoPSC's order, including the
allowed return on common equity and the elimination of recovery
of changes in transmission charges and revenues through the FAC. Ameren Missouri will seek to align its spending, both
operating and capital, with the regulatory framework established by the MoPSC's order. Ameren Missouri continues to pursue a
modernized regulatory framework that supports investment to
upgrade aging electric infrastructure and reduces regulatory lag.In April 2015, the IEIMA's formula rate framework applicable to Ameren Illinois' electric delivery service business was
extended until the end of 2019, with further extensions possible through 2022, allowing for continued modernization of Ameren Illinois' electric distribution system. In April 2015, Ameren Illinois
filed with the ICC its annual electric delivery service formula rate update to establish 2016 rates. Pending ICC approval, Ameren Illinois' update filing will result in a $110 million increase in Ameren Illinois' electric delivery service rates beginning in January 2016. In January 2015, Ameren Illinois filed a request
with the ICC seeking approval to increase its annual revenues for natural gas delivery service by $53 million. In an attempt to reduce regulatory lag, Ameren Illinois used a 2016 future test
year in this proceeding. Included in the request was a proposal to
implement a decoupling rider mechanism for residential and small nonresidential customers. The decoupling rider would ensure that changes in natural gas sales volumes do not affect
Ameren Illinois' annual natural gas revenues for these rate classes. A decision by the ICC in this proceeding is required by December 2015, with new rates expected to be effective in
January 2016.RESULTS OF OPERATIONSOur results of operations and financial position are affected by many factors. Weather, economic conditions, and the actions of key customers can significantly affect the demand for our services. Our results are also affected by seasonal fluctuations in winter heating and summer cooling demands. We are also affected by nuclear refueling and other energy center maintenance outages at Ameren Missouri. Almost all of Ameren's revenues are subject to state or federal regulation. This
regulation has a material impact on the prices we charge for our
services. Our results of operations, financial position, and liquidity are affected by our ability to align our overall spending, both
operating and capital, with regulatory frameworks established by our regulators. Ameren Missouri principally uses coal, nuclear
fuel, and natural gas for fuel in its electric operations and purchases natural gas for its customers. Ameren Illinois purchases power and natural gas for its customers. The prices
for these commodities can fluctuate significantly because of the global economic and political environment, weather, supply and demand, and many other factors. We have natural gas cost
recovery mechanisms for our Illinois and Missouri natural gas
delivery service businesses, a purchased power cost recovery mechanism for Ameren Illinois' electric delivery service business, and a FAC for Ameren Missouri's electric utility business. Ameren
Illinois' electric delivery service utility business, pursuant to the
IEIMA, conducts an annual reconciliation of the revenue
requirement necessary to reflect the actual costs incurred in a
given year with the revenue requirement included in customer rates for that year, with recoveries from or refunds to customers made in a subsequent year. Included in Ameren Illinois' revenue requirement reconciliation is a formula for the return on equity,
which is equal to the average of the monthly yields of 30-year United States Treasury bonds plus 580 basis points. Therefore,
Ameren Illinois' annual return on equity is directly correlated to yields on United States Treasury bonds. Ameren Illinois and ATXI
use a company-specific, forward-looking rate formula framework in setting their transmission rates. These forward-looking rates are updated each January with forecasted information. A reconciliation during the year, which adjusts for the actual
revenue requirement and actual sales volumes, is used to adjust billing rates in a subsequent year. Fluctuations in interest rates and conditions in the capital and credit markets also affect our
cost of borrowing and our pension and postretirement benefits costs. We employ various risk management strategies to reduce
our exposure to commodity risk and other risks inherent in our business. The reliability of Ameren Missouri's energy centers and
our transmission and distribution systems and the level of
purchased power costs, operations and maintenance costs, and
capital investment are key factors that we seek to manage in
order to optimize our results of operations, financial position, and liquidity.
44Earnings SummaryThe following table presents a summary of Ameren's earnings from continuing operations for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014:
Three Months20152014Net income attributable to Ameren Corporation - continuing operations$108$97Earnings per common share - basic -
continuing operations 0.450.40Net income attributable to Ameren Corporation from continuing operations increased $11 million, or 5 cents per share, in the first quarter of 2015 compared with the same period in 2014. The increase was due to net income from Ameren (parent) and nonregistrant subsidiaries of $14 million in the first quarter of 2015 compared with a $3 million loss in the same period in 2014.
Ameren Missouri's net income decreased by $6 million compared to 2014, while Ameren Illinois' 2015 net income was comparable
to 2014.Compared with 2014, 2015 earnings per share from continuing operations were favorably affected by:* increased Ameren Illinois and ATXI electric transmission service and Ameren Illinois electric service delivery earnings under formula ratemaking due to additional rate base
investment (5 cents per share);* decreased other operations and maintenance expenses for those businesses not operating under formula rates, primarily at Ameren Missouri due, in part, to a reduction in
low-level radioactive nuclear waste disposal costs, and at
nonregistrant subsidiaries (5 cents per share);
- increased Ameren Illinois earnings resulting from a January 2015 ICC order regarding Ameren Illinois' cumulative power
usage cost and its purchased power rider mechanism (4
cents per share); and* decreased interest expense at Ameren (parent) primarily due to higher-cost debt being replaced with lower-cost debt
(3 cents per share).
Compared with 2014, 2015 earnings per share from continuing operations were unfavorably affected by:* decreased electric and natural gas demand from milder winter temperatures in 2015 (estimated at 3 cents per share) as well as decreased Ameren Missouri electric demand, excluding the effects of weather, primarily due to the effects of the MEEIA customer energy efficiency programs
(estimated at 2 cents per share);* decreased Ameren Illinois and ATXI electric transmission service and Ameren Illinois electric delivery service earnings
under formula ratemaking due to a lower recognized return on equity in each jurisdiction. The FERC-allowed return on
equity was reduced by the recognition of a liability for a
potential refund to customers based on the pending
complaint cases and the recognized return on equity related to Ameren Illinois electric delivery service was reduced due to lower 30-year United States Treasury bond yields (2 cents
per share);* increased depreciation and amortization expenses for those businesses not operating under formula rates, primarily resulting from electric capital additions at Ameren Missouri and amortization of natural gas software at Ameren Illinois
(2 cents per share); and
- increased financing costs at Ameren Missouri, primarily due
to increased interest expense and decreased allowance for
equity funds used during construction (2 cents per share).For additional details regarding the Ameren Companies' results of operations, including explanations of Margins, Other Operations and Maintenance Expenses, Depreciation and Amortization, Taxes Other Than Income Taxes, Other Income and Expenses, Interest Charges, Income Taxes and Loss from Discontinued Operations, Net of Taxes, see the major headings below.
45Below is a table of income statement components by segment for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014:
AmerenMissouriAmerenIllinoisOther /IntersegmentEliminationsAmeren Three Months 2015:
Electric margins$497$288$
13$798Natural gas margins 27150-177Other operations and maintenance(211)(202)12(401)Depreciation and amortization(118)(73)(2)(193)Taxes other than income taxes(80)(43)(2)(125)Other income (expense) 82(2)8Interest charges(55)(33)-(88)Income (taxes) benefit(26)(35)(5)(66)Income from continuing operations 425414110Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax
Net income 425414110Preferred dividends(1)(1)-(2)Net income attributable to Ameren Corporation
$41$53$14$108Three Months 2014:
Electric margins$510$272$6$788Natural gas margins 28157(1)184Other operations and maintenance(225)(200)7(418)Depreciation and amortization(116)(63)(2)(181)Taxes other than income taxes(78)(46)(3)(127)Other income (expense) 10(1)-9Interest charges(52)(30)(10)(92)Income (taxes) benefit(29)(35)-(64)Income (loss) from continuing operations 4854(3)99Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax
--(1)(1)Net income (loss) 4854(4)98Noncontrolling interests and preferred dividends(1)(1)-(2)Net income (loss) attributable to Ameren Corporation
$47$53$(4)$96 46MarginsThe following table presents the favorable (unfavorable) variations by segment for electric and natural gas margins in the three months ended March 31, 2015, compared with the same period in 2014. Electric margins are defined as electric revenues less fuel and purchased power costs. Natural gas margins are defined as gas revenues less gas purchased for resale. We consider electric and natural gas margins useful measures to analyze the change in profitability of our electric and natural gas operations between periods. We have included the analysis below as a complement to the financial information we provide in accordance with GAAP. However, these margins may not be a presentation defined under GAAP and may not be comparable to other companies' presentations or more useful than the GAAP information
we provide elsewhere in this report.
AmerenMissouriAmerenIllinoisOther (a)AmerenElectric revenue change:Effect of weather (estimate)
(b)$(9)$(5)$-$(14)Base rates (estimate)-15-15IEIMA revenue requirement reconciliation
-(15)-(15)Sales volume (excluding the estimated effect of weather)
(8)(1)-(9)Recovery of FAC under-recovery (c)5--5Off-system sales and transmission services revenues 8--8MEEIA (energy efficiency) recovery mechanisms (1)--(1)Transmission services revenues
-71017Illinois pass-through power supply costs-18-18Bad debt, energy efficiency programs and environmental remediation cost riders 4Purchased power rider order-15-15Other(2)(1)(3)(6)Total electric revenue change
$(7)$37$7$37Fuel and purchased power change:
Energy costs
$(5)$-$-$(5)Effect of weather (estimate)
(b)43-7Recovery of FAC under-recovery (c)(5)--(5)Transmission services expenses-(6)-(6)Illinois pass-through power supply costs
-(18)-(18)Total fuel and purchased power change
$(6)$(21)$-$(27)Net change in electric margins$(13)$16$7$10Natural gas revenue change:Effect of weather (estimate)
(b)$(6)$(21)$-$(27)Bad debt, energy efficiency programs and environmental remediation cost riders 1Gross receipts tax-(3)-(3)Pass-through purchased gas costs (4)(40)-(44)Sales volume (excluding the estimated effect of weather) and other-(3)1(2)Total natural gas revenue change$(10)$(66)$1$
(75)Gas purchased for resale change:Effect of weather (estimate)
(b)$5$19$-$24Pass-through purchased gas costs 440-44Total gas purchased for resale change$9$59$-$68Net change in natural gas margins
$(1)$(7)$1$(7)(a) Primarily includes amounts for ATXI and intercompany eliminations.(b) Represents the estimated variation resulting primarily from changes in cooling and heating degree-days on electric and natural gas demand compared with the prior-year period; this is based on temperature readings from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration weather stations at local airports in our service territories.(c) Represents the change in the net energy costs recovered under the FAC through customer rates, with corresponding offsets to fuel expense due to amortization of a previously recorded regulatory asset.
Ameren CorporationAmeren's electric margins increased $10 million, or 1%, for the three months ended March 31, 2015, compared with the same period in 2014. Ameren's natural gas margins decreased
$7 million, or 4%, for the three months ended March 31, 2015, compared with the same period in 2014. These results were primarily driven by Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois results, as discussed below. Ameren's electric margins also reflected ATXI's results of operations. ATXI's transmission revenues increased $10 million for the three months ended March 31, 2015, compared with the same period in 2014, reflecting
increased rate base investment and recoverable costs under
forward-looking formula ratemaking.
47Ameren MissouriAmeren Missouri has a FAC cost recovery mechanism that allows Ameren Missouri to recover, through customer rates, 95%
of changes in net energy costs greater or less than the amount
set in base rates without a traditional rate proceeding, subject to MoPSC prudence review. Net energy costs include fuel and
purchased power costs, including transportation charges and revenues, net of off-system sales. Ameren Missouri accrues, as a
regulatory asset, net energy costs that exceed the amount set in base rates (FAC under-recovery). Net recovery of these costs through customer rates does not affect Ameren Missouri's electric margins, as increases in revenue are offset by a corresponding increase in fuel expense to reduce the previously recognized FAC
regulatory asset.Ameren Missouri's electric margins decreased $13 million, or 3%, for the three months ended March 31, 2015, compared with the same period in 2014. The following items had an unfavorable effect on Ameren Missouri's electric margins:* Lower sales volumes primarily caused by the MEEIA programs. Excluding the estimated effect of weather, total retail sales volumes decreased 2%, which decreased revenues an estimated $8 million. Lower sales volumes led to a decrease in net energy costs of $3 million. The change in net energy costs is the sum of the change in off-system sales and transmission services revenues (+$8 million) and the change in energy costs (-$5 million) in the above table.* Winter temperatures in 2015 were milder compared to 2014 as heating degree-days decreased 10%, which resulted in lower sales volumes and an estimated $5 million decrease in margins. The change in weather margin is the sum of the effect of weather on electric revenues (-$9 million) and the effect of weather on fuel and purchased power (+$4 million)
in the above table.
Ameren Missouri has a cost recovery mechanism for natural gas purchased on behalf of its customers. These pass-through purchased gas costs do not affect Ameren Missouri's natural gas margins as they are offset by a corresponding amount in
revenues.Ameren Missouri's natural gas margins were comparable between periods.
Ameren Illinois Ameren Illinois has a cost recovery mechanism for power purchased on behalf of its customers. These pass-through power supply costs do not affect Ameren Illinois' electric margins, as they are offset by a corresponding amount in revenues.The provisions of the IEIMA and the FERC's electric transmission formula rate framework provide for annual
reconciliations of the electric delivery and transmission service
revenue requirements necessary to reflect the actual costs
incurred in a given year with the revenue requirements in customer rates for that year, including an allowed return on equity. See Operations and Maintenance Expenses in this section
for additional information regarding the revenue requirements. In
each jurisdiction, if the current year's revenue requirement is greater than the revenue requirement reflected in that year's
customer rates, an increase to electric operating revenues with an offset to a regulatory asset is recorded to reflect the expected
recovery of those additional costs from customers within the next
two years. In each jurisdiction, if the current year's revenue
requirement is less than the revenue requirement reflected in that year's customer rates, a reduction to electric operating revenues with an offset to a regulatory liability is recorded to reflect the
expected refund to customers within the next two years. See
Note 2 - Rate and Regulatory Matters under Part I, Item 1, of this report for information regarding Ameren Illinois' revenue
requirement reconciliation pursuant to the IEIMA.Ameren Illinois' electric margins increased $16 million, or 6%, for the three months ended March 31, 2015, compared with the same period in 2014. The following items had a favorable effect on Ameren Illinois' electric margins:
- Higher base rates resulting in a $15 million increase to revenues under the formula rate framework as a result of the ICC's December 2014 IEIMA rate order.* In January 2015, the ICC issued an order regarding Ameren Illinois' cumulative power usage cost and its purchased power rider mechanism. Based on this January 2015 order, Ameren Illinois recorded a $15 million increase to electric
revenues.
- A net increase in recovery of bad debt charge-offs, customer energy efficiency program costs and environmental
remediation costs through rate-adjustment mechanisms, which increased revenues $4 million. See Other Operations
and Maintenance Expenses in this section for information on a related offsetting net increase in bad debt, customer energy efficiency, and environmental remediation costs.* Transmission services margins increased $1 million, largely due to a higher transmission services revenue requirement driven primarily by increased rate base investment. The
change in transmission services margins is the sum of the change in transmission services revenues (+$7 million) and the change in transmission services expenses (-$6 million)
in the above table.The following items had an unfavorable effect on Ameren Illinois' electric margins for the three months ended March 31, 2015, compared with the same period in 2014:* A $15 million reduction in revenues recorded pursuant to the IEIMA's revenue requirement reconciliation in response to a lower recognized return on equity as a result of lower United States Treasury bond yields and less of an increase of
recoverable costs in 2015 compared to 2014.* Winter temperatures in 2015 were milder compared to 2014 as heating degree-days decreased 10%, which resulted in lower sales volumes and an estimated $2 million decrease in margins. The change in weather margin is the sum of the effect of weather on electric revenues (-$5 million) and the effect of weather on fuel and purchased power (+$3 million)
in the above table.
Ameren Illinois has a cost recovery mechanism for natural gas purchased on behalf of its customers. These pass-through purchased gas costs do not affect Ameren Illinois' natural gas 48margins as they are offset by a corresponding amount in revenues.Ameren Illinois' natural gas margins decreased $7 million, or 4%, for the three months ended March 31, 2015, compared with the same period in 2014. The following items had an unfavorable effect on Ameren Illinois' natural gas margins:* Decreased gross receipts taxes due primarily to lower sales volumes as a result of milder winter temperatures in 2015, which decreased revenues $3 million. See Taxes Other Than Income Taxes in this section for information on a related offsetting decrease to gross receipts taxes.* Excluding the estimated effect of weather, total retail sales volumes decreased 6%, which decreased revenues an estimated $3 million.* Winter temperatures in 2015 were milder compared to 2014 as heating degree-days decreased 10%, which decreased margins an estimated $2 million. The change in weather margin is the sum of the effect of weather on gas revenues
(-$21 million) and the effect of weather on gas purchased for resale (+$19 million) in the above table.
Other Operations and Maintenance Expenses Ameren CorporationOther operations and maintenance expenses were $17 million lower in the first quarter of 2015, as compared with the first quarter of 2014. Other operations and maintenance expenses decreased $14 million at Ameren Missouri and increased $2 million at Ameren Illinois. In addition, other
operations and maintenance expenses at nonregistrant subsidiaries decreased $5 million.
Ameren MissouriOther operations and maintenance expenses were $14 million lower in the first quarter of 2015, as compared with the first quarter of 2014. The following items decreased other
operations and maintenance expenses between periods:* An $8 million reduction in disposal costs of low-level radioactive nuclear waste.* A $2 million decrease in customer energy efficiency program costs due to the timing of MEEIA spending.
Electric revenues from customer billings decreased by a corresponding amount, with no overall effect on net income.* A $2 million decrease in energy center maintenance costs, primarily due to fewer major outages at coal-fired energy
centers.Ameren IllinoisPursuant to the provisions of the IEIMA and the FERC's electric transmission formula rate framework, recoverable electric
service costs, that are not recovered through separate cost recovery mechanisms, are included in Ameren Illinois' revenue
requirement reconciliations, which result in corresponding adjustments to electric operating revenues, with no overall effect on net income. These recoverable electric service costs include
other operations and maintenance expenses, depreciation and amortization, taxes other than income taxes, interest charges,
and income taxes.
Other operations and maintenance expenses were $2 million higher in the first quarter of 2015, as compared with the first quarter of 2014. The increased expense was primarily due to a $5 million increase in bad debt, customer energy efficiency, and environmental remediation costs. These expenses are recovered by Ameren Illinois' cost recovery mechanisms through additional electric and natural gas revenues, resulting in no overall effect on net income. The increase in other operations and maintenance
expenses was mitigated by a $3 million decrease in natural gas
maintenance expenditures, primarily related to the timing of
pipeline integrity compliance expenditures. Depreciation and Amortization
Ameren CorporationDepreciation and amortization expenses increased $12 million in the first quarter of 2015, as compared with the first quarter of 2014, primarily due to increased expenses at Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois as discussed below.
Ameren MissouriDepreciation and amortization expenses increased $2 million, primarily due to electric capital additions completed in the fourth quarter of 2014.
Ameren IllinoisDepreciation and amortization expenses increased $10 million, primarily because of electric capital additions and amortization of natural gas software.Taxes Other Than Income Taxes
Ameren CorporationTaxes other than income taxes decreased $2 million in the first quarter of 2015, as compared with the first quarter of 2014, primarily due to decreased expenses at Ameren Illinois, partially offset by increased expenses at Ameren Missouri, as discussed below.Ameren MissouriTaxes other than income taxes increased $2 million, primarily because of increased property taxes resulting from both higher tax rates and assessed property tax values.
Ameren IllinoisTaxes other than income taxes decreased $3 million, primarily due to decreased gross receipts taxes resulting from lower natural gas sales volumes. Natural gas revenues from
customer billings decreased by a corresponding amount, with no overall effect on net income. See Excise Taxes in Note 1 -
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies under Part I, Item 1,
of this report for additional information.
49Other Income and Expenses Ameren Corporation Other income, net of expenses, was comparable between periods. See Note 5 - Other Income and Expenses under Part I, Item 1, of this report for additional information.
Ameren MissouriOther income, net of expenses, decreased $2 million, primarily because of a decrease in the allowance for equity funds used during construction as multiple capital projects were
completed in the fourth quarter of 2014.
Ameren IllinoisOther income, net of expenses, increased $3 million, primarily because of increased interest income on the IEIMA 2013, 2014 and 2015 revenue requirement reconciliation
regulatory assets.
Interest Charges
Ameren CorporationInterest charges decreased $4 million in the first quarter of 2015, as compared with the first quarter of 2014, primarily because of a $9 million reduction in interest charges at Ameren
(parent), resulting from the maturity of $425 million of 8.875%
senior unsecured notes in May 2014, which were replaced with lower-cost debt. Partially offsetting this reduction were increases in interest charges at Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois, as discussed below.
Ameren MissouriInterest charges increased $3 million, primarily because of a decrease in the allowance for funds used during construction, as multiple capital projects were completed in the fourth quarter of
2014. Interest on the $350 million of 3.50% senior secured notes issued in April 2014 also increased interest charges.
Ameren IllinoisInterest charges increased $3 million, primarily due to interest on the $250 million of 4.30% senior secured notes issued in June 2014 and the $300 million of 3.25% senior secured notes
issued in December 2014.Income TaxesThe following table presents effective income tax rates for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014:
Three Months (a)20152014Ameren38%39%Ameren Missouri 38%38%Ameren Illinois 39%39%(a) Based on the current estimate of the annual effective tax rate adjusted to reflect the tax effect of items discrete to the relevant period.
Ameren CorporationThe effective tax rate was lower in the first quarter of 2015, as compared with the first quarter of 2014, primarily due to lower Illinois state income tax expense in 2015 resulting from a reduced
statutory rate, decreased tax expense related to stock-based
compensation, and higher tax benefits from company-owned life
insurance.
Ameren MissouriThe effective tax rate was comparable between periods.
Ameren IllinoisThe effective tax rate was comparable between periods. Loss from Discontinued Operations, Net of Taxes No material activity was recorded associated with discontinued operations in the first quarter of 2015 or in the first quarter of 2014. See Note 12 - Divestiture Transactions and
Discontinued Operations under Part I, Item 1, of this report for
additional information.LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCESOur tariff-based gross margins are our principal source of cash from operating activities. A diversified retail customer mix, primarily consisting of rate-regulated residential, commercial, and
industrial customers, provides us with a reasonably predictable
source of cash. In addition to using cash generated from
operating activities, we use available cash, credit agreement
borrowings, commercial paper issuances, money pool borrowings, or, in the case of Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois, other short-term borrowings from affiliates to support normal operations and temporary capital requirements. We may
reduce our short-term borrowings with cash from operations, with long-term borrowings, or, in the case of Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois, with capital contributions from Ameren (parent).
We expect to make significant capital expenditures over the next
five years as we invest in our electric and natural gas utility infrastructure to support overall system reliability, environmental compliance, and other improvements. We intend to fund those
capital expenditures with available cash on hand, cash generated
from operating activities, and commercial paper and debt
issuances so that we maintain an equity ratio around 50%,
assuming constructive regulatory environments. We plan to implement our long-term financing plans for debt, equity, or
equity-linked securities to finance our operations, to fund
scheduled debt maturities, and to maintain financial strength and flexibility.
The use of cash from operating activities and short-term borrowings to fund capital expenditures and other long-term
investments may periodically result in a working capital deficit,
defined as current liabilities exceeding current assets, as was the case at March31, 2015. The working capital deficit as of March31, 2015, was primarily the result of increased commercial paper issuances. With the 2012 Credit Agreements, the Ameren 50Companies have access to $2.1 billion of credit capacity, of which $1.1 billion was available at March31, 2015.The following table presents net cash provided by (used in) operating, investing and financing activities for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014:
Net Cash Provided ByOperating Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used In)Investing Activities Net CashProvided by (Used In)Financing Activities20152014Variance20152014Variance20152014Variance Ameren(a) - continuing operations$297$239$58$(439)$(465)$26$142$70$72Ameren(a) - discontinued operations 1-1-152(152)---Ameren Missouri 1579661(169)(204)3512107(95)Ameren Illinois 25419262(207)(214)7(48)22(70)(a) Includes amounts for Ameren registrant and nonregistrant subsidiaries and intercompany eliminations.Cash Flows from Operating Activities Ameren CorporationAmeren's cash from operating activities associated with continuing operations increased $58 million in the first quarter of 2015, compared with the same period in 2014. The following
items contributed to the increase:
- A $40 million increase in natural gas commodity costs collected from customers under the PGAs, primarily related to Ameren Illinois.* A $37 million increase in the collection of customer receivable balances driven by the timing and amount of
revenues in each period.* A $30 million increase in net energy costs collected from Ameren Missouri customers under the FAC.* A $29 million increase in cash associated with Ameren Illinois' IEIMA revenue requirement reconciliation adjustments as Ameren Illinois collected $15 million from
customers in 2015 and refunded $14 million to customers in
2014.* Electric and natural gas margins, as discussed in Results of
Operations excluding certain noncash items, increased $12
million.
- A $9 million decrease in Ameren Missouri rebate payments
provided for customer-installed solar generation.* A $6 million decrease associated with stock-based compensation awards.The following items partially offset the increase in Ameren's cash from operating activities associated with continuing operations between periods:* A $28 million difference in purchased power commodity costs incurred compared with amounts collected from Ameren Illinois customers.
- A $26 million increase in coal purchases at Ameren Missouri
caused by increased volumes and prices.* A $26 million increase in Ameren Illinois payments to natural gas suppliers caused by increased prices and timing of
purchases.* A net $12 million decrease in returns of collateral posted with counterparties, primarily resulting from changes in the
market prices of power and natural gas and in contracted commodity volumes, partially offset by the effect of credit
rating upgrades.* An $8 million difference in expenditures for customer energy efficiency programs compared with amounts collected from
Ameren Illinois customers.* A $7 million increase in property tax payments at Ameren Missouri caused by both higher assessed property tax
values and tax rates.* A $7 million reduction in income tax refunds due to the absence in 2015 of 2014 tax credit sales.Ameren's cash from operating activities associated with discontinued operations was comparable between periods.
Ameren MissouriAmeren Missouri's cash from operating activities increased $61 million in the first quarter of 2015, compared with the same period in 2014. The following items contributed to the increase:* Income tax refunds of $47 million in 2015, compared with income tax payments of $1 million in 2014, pursuant to the tax allocation agreement with Ameren (parent) resulting in
refunds related to accelerated depreciation deductions and
an income tax refund from the settlement of the 2007 IRS
audit.* A $30 million increase in net energy costs collected from customers under the FAC.* A $9 million decrease in rebate payments provided for customer-installed solar generation.* A $4 million increase in natural gas commodity costs collected from customers under the PGA.The following items partially offset the increase in Ameren Missouri's cash from operating activities between periods:
- A $26 million increase in coal purchases caused by increased volumes and prices.* Electric and natural gas margins, as discussed in Results of Operations excluding certain noncash items, decreased $11 million.* A $7 million increase in property tax payments caused by both higher assessed property tax values and tax rates.
51Ameren IllinoisAmeren Illinois' cash from operating activities increased $62 million in the first quarter of 2015, compared with the same period in 2014. The following items contributed to the increase:* A $38 million increase in the collection of customer receivable balances, driven by the timing and amount of revenues in each period.
- A $36 million increase in natural gas commodity costs
collected from customers under the PGA.* A $29 million increase in cash associated with IEIMA revenue requirement reconciliation adjustments as $15
million was collected from customers in 2015 and $14 million
was refunded to customers in 2014.
- A $19 million increase in income tax refunds received from
Ameren (parent) pursuant to the tax allocation agreement
resulting in refunds related to accelerated depreciation
deductions and an income tax refund from the settlement of
the 2007 IRS audit.* Electric and natural gas margins, as discussed in Results of Operations excluding certain noncash items, increased $13
million. The following items partially offset the increase in Ameren Illinois' cash from operating activities between periods:
- A $28 million difference in purchased power commodity costs incurred compared with amounts collected from customers.
- A $26 million increase in payments to natural gas suppliers caused by increased prices and timing of purchases.* A net $13 million decrease in returns of collateral posted with counterparties, primarily resulting from changes in the
market prices of power and natural gas and in contracted commodity volumes, partially offset by the effect of credit
rating upgrades.
- An $8 million difference in expenditures for customer energy efficiency programs compared with amounts collected from
customers.Cash Flows from Investing ActivitiesAmeren's cash used in investing activities associated with continuing operations decreased $26 million in the first quarter of 2015, compared with the same period in 2014. Capital expenditures decreased
$25 million at Ameren as a result of the activity at Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois as discussed below. The Ameren total includes a $65 million increase in ATXI's
capital expenditures which primarily relate to the Illinois Rivers
project. In addition, reduced collateral support provided to
Marketing Company in the form of a note receivable further contributed to a decrease in cash used in investing activities. This cash collateral support is part of Ameren's obligation to provide certain limited credit support to New AER until December 2, 2015. See Note 12 - Divestiture Transactions and Discontinued
Operations in Part I, Item 1, of this report for additional
information. In the first quarter of 2014, Ameren's cash provided by investing activities associated with discontinued operations
consisted of $152 million received from Rockland Capital for the sale of the Elgin, Gibson City, and Grand Tower gas-fired energy
centers.Ameren Missouri's cash used in investing activities decreased $35 million, due to decreased reliability and energy
center capital expenditures. Multiple capital projects were
completed in the fourth quarter of 2014.Ameren Illinois' cash used in investing activities decreased $7 million due to a decrease in capital expenditures for transmission projects offset, in part, by increases in reliability and IEIMA projects. The decrease in capital expenditures was partially offset by an increase in net money pool advances. While
spending related to transmission projects decreased during the
first quarter of 2015, compared to the prior year period, capital
expenditures related to transmission projects for calendar year
2015 are expected to exceed calendar year 2014 amounts.
Ameren Missouri continually reviews its generation portfolio and expected power needs. As a result, Ameren Missouri could modify its plan for generation capacity, the type of generation
asset technology that will be employed, and whether capacity or power may be purchased, among other changes. Additionally, we
continually review the reliability of our transmission and
distribution systems, expected capacity needs, and opportunities for transmission investments.The timing and amount of investments could vary because of changes in expected capacity,
the condition of transmission and distribution systems, and our
ability and willingness to pursue transmission investments, among other factors. Any changes in future generation,
transmission, or distribution needs could result in significant
capital expenditures or losses, which could be material.
Compliance with environmental regulations could also have
significant impacts on the level of capital expenditures. See Note
9 - Commitments and Contingencies in Part I, Item 1, of this
report for additional information.Cash Flows from Financing ActivitiesAmeren's financing activities associated with continuing operations provided net cash of $142 million during the first quarter of 2015, compared to $70 million during the first quarter of 2014. The increased cash provided by financing activities resulted from increased borrowing activity. In the first quarter of 2015 and 2014, Ameren issued short-term debt to fund investing activities that were not funded by cash generated from operating activities. In addition, in the first quarter of 2014, Ameren Illinois
redeemed long-term debt.
No cash from financing activities was used for discontinued operations during 2015 or 2014.Ameren Missouri's financing activities provided net cash of $12 million during the first quarter of 2015, compared to $107
million during the same period in 2014. In the first quarter of 2015, Ameren Missouri received a capital contribution from
Ameren (parent) of $224 million, received a net $61 million from 52the money pool, issued a net $43 million of short-term debt, and paid common stock dividends of $315 million. In comparison, in 2014, Ameren Missouri issued a net $290 million of short-term debt, repaid a net $105 million to the money pool, and paid
common stock dividends of $77 million. During both years,
Ameren Missouri used cash from financing activities to fund
investing activities that were not funded by cash generated from
operating activities. Ameren Illinois' financing activities used net cash of $48 million during the first quarter of 2015, compared with the same period in 2014, when financing activities provided net cash of $22 million. In the first quarter of 2015, Ameren Illinois repaid a net
$32 million of short-term debt and repaid a net $15 million to the money pool. During the first quarter of 2015, Ameren Illinois used
cash generated from operating activities and cash on hand to
fund investing and financing activities. In comparison, in 2014,
Ameren Illinois received a net $186 million from the money pool and redeemed long-term debt of $163 million. During the first quarter of 2014, Ameren Illinois used cash from financing
activities to fund investing activities that were not funded by cash
generated from operating activities.
Credit Facility Borrowings and LiquidityThe liquidity needs of Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois are typically supported through the use of available cash, short-term intercompany borrowings, drawings under committed credit agreements or commercial paper issuances. See Note 3 - Short-term Debt
and Liquidity under Part I, Item 1, of this report for additional information on credit agreements, short-term borrowing activity
, commercial paper issuances, relevant interest rates, and borrowings under Ameren's money pool arrangements.The following table presents the 2012 Credit Agreements of Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois and the credit capacity available under such agreements, considering reductions for letters of credit and commercial paper issuances, as of March31, 2015:ExpirationBorrowingCapacityCreditAvailable Ameren and Ameren Missouri:
2012 Missouri Credit AgreementDecember 2019$1,000$1,000Less: Ameren (parent) commercial paper outstanding (a)475Less: Ameren Missouri commercial paper outstanding (a)140Subtotal385Ameren and Ameren Illinois:
2012 Illinois Credit Agreement December 2019 1,1001,100Less: Ameren (parent) commercial paper outstanding (a)340Less: Letters of credit (b)(a)13Subtotal747Ameren Total
$2,100$1,132(a) Not applicable.(b) As of March31, 2015, $9 million of the letters of credit related to Ameren's credit support obligations to New AER. See Note 12 - Divestiture Transactions and Discontinued Operations under Part I, Item 1, of this report for additional information. The 2012 Credit Agreements are used to borrow cash, to issue letters of credit, and to support issuances under Ameren's, Ameren Missouri's, and Ameren Illinois' commercial paper programs. Either of the 2012 Credit Agreements are available to Ameren to support issuances under Ameren's commercial paper program, subject to borrowing sublimits. The 2012 Missouri Credit Agreement is available to support issuances under Ameren Missouri's commercial paper program. The 2012 Illinois Credit Agreement is available to support issuances under Ameren Illinois' commercial paper program. Issuances under the Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois commercial paper programs were available at lower interest rates than the interest rates available under the 2012 Credit Agreements.As such,
commercial paper issuances were a preferred source of third-
party short-term debt relative to credit facility borrowings. The Ameren Companies continually evaluate the adequacy and appropriateness of their liquidity arrangements given
changing business conditions. When business conditions
warrant, changes may be made to existing credit agreements or
to other short-term borrowing arrangements.
53Long-term Debt and EquityThe following table presents the redemptions of long-term debt for the Ameren Companies for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014. The Ameren Companies did not have any issuances of common stock during the first three months of 2015 or 2014. In March 2015, Ameren Missouri received cash capital contributions of $224 million from Ameren (parent). For additional information, see Note 4 -
Long-term Debt under Part I, Item1, of this report
.Three Months Month Redeemed 20152014Ameren Illinois:
5.90% Series 1993 due 2023 (a)January$-$325.70% 1994A Series due 2024 (a)January-365.95% 1993 Series C-1 due 2026 January-355.70% 1993 Series C-2 due 2026 January-85.40% 1998A Series due 2028 January-195.40% 1998B Series due 2028 January-33Total Ameren long-term debt redemptions
$-$163(a) Less than $1 million principal amount of the bonds remain outstanding after redemption.In April 2015, Ameren Missouri issued $250 million of 3.65% senior secured notes due April 15, 2045, with interest payable semiannually on April 15 and October 15 of each year, beginning October 15, 2015. Ameren Missouri received proceeds of $247 million, which were used to repay outstanding short-term debt, including short-term debt that Ameren Missouri incurred in connection with the repayment of $114 million of its 4.75% senior secured notes that matured on April 1, 2015. The Ameren Companies may sell securities registered under their effective registration statements if market conditions and capital requirements warrant such sales. Any offer and sale will
be made only by means of a prospectus that meets the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933 and the rules and regulations thereunder.
Indebtedness Provisions and Other Covenants See Note 3 - Short-term Debt and Liquidity and Note 4 -
Long-term Debt under Part I, Item1, of this report and Note 4 -
Short-term Debt and Liquidity and Note 5 - Long-term Debt and
Equity Financings under Part II, Item8, of the Form 10-K for a
discussion of covenants and provisions (and applicable cross-
default provisions) contained in our credit agreements and in certain of the Ameren Companies' indentures and articles of
incorporation.At March31, 2015, the Ameren Companies were in compliance with the provisions and covenants contained within
their credit agreements, indentures, and articles of incorporation.We consider access to short-term and long-term capital markets a significant source of funding for capital requirements
not satisfied by cash generated from our operating activities.
Inability to raise capital on reasonable terms, particularly during times of uncertainty in the capital markets, could negatively affect our ability to maintain and expand our businesses. After assessing its current operating performance, liquidity, and credit ratings (see Credit Ratings below), Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois each believes that it will continue to have access to the capital markets. However, events beyond Ameren's, Ameren Missouri's, and Ameren Illinois' control may
create uncertainty in the capital markets or make access to the
capital markets uncertain or limited. Such events could increase our cost of capital and adversely affect our ability to access the
capital markets.
DividendsThe amount and timing of dividends payable on Ameren's common stock are within the sole discretion of Ameren's board of directors. Ameren's board of directors has not set specific targets
or payout parameters when declaring common stock dividends but considers various factors, including Ameren's overall payout
ratio, payout ratios of our peers, projected cash flow and potential future cash flow requirements, historical earnings and cash flow,
projected earnings, impacts of regulatory orders or legislation, and other key business considerations. Ameren expects its
dividend payout ratio to be between 55% and 70% of earnings over the next few years. On April 24, 2015, Ameren's board of
directors declared a quarterly common stock dividend of 41 cents
per share payable on June 30, 2015, to stockholders of record at
the close of business on June 10, 2015.
See Note 4 - Short-term Debt and Liquidity and Note 5 -
Long-term Debt and Equity Financings under Part II, Item8, of
the Form 10-K for additional discussion of covenants and provisions contained in certain of the Ameren Companies'
financial agreements and articles of incorporation that would restrict the Ameren Companies' payment of dividends in certain circumstances. At March31, 2015, none of these circumstances existed at Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois and, as
a result, these companies were not restricted from paying
dividends.
54The following table presents common stock dividends declared and paid by Ameren Corporation to its common stockholders and by Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois to their parent, Ameren Corporation, for the three months ended March 31, 2015, and 2014:
Three Months 20152014Ameren Missouri
$315$77Ameren Illinois
--Ameren9997Contractual Obligations For a listing of our obligations and commitments, see Other Obligations in Note 9 - Commitments and Contingencies under Part I, Item1, of this report. See Note 11 - Retirement Benefits
under Part I, Item1, of this report for information regarding
expected minimum funding levels for our pension plan.At March31, 2015, total other obligations related to commitments for coal, natural gas, nuclear fuel, purchased power, methane gas, equipment, customer energy efficiency
program expenditures and meter reading services, among other agreements, at Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois were $5,326 million, $3,577 million, and $1,702 million, respectively. Off-Balance-Sheet ArrangementsAt March31, 2015, none of the Ameren Companies had any off-balance-sheet financing arrangements, other than operating leases entered into in the ordinary course of business. None of the Ameren Companies expect to engage in any significant off-
balance-sheet financing arrangements in the near future. See Note 12 - Divestiture Transactions and Discontinued Operations under Part I, Item 1, of this report for Ameren (parent) guarantees and letters of credit issued to support New AER based on the
transaction agreement with IPH.
Credit RatingsThe credit ratings of the Ameren Companies affect our liquidity, our access to the capital markets and credit markets, our cost of borrowing under our credit facilities and collateral posting
requirements under commodity contracts.
The following table presents the principal credit ratings of the Ameren Companies by Moody's, S&P and Fitch effective on
the date of this report:Moody'sS&PFitch Ameren:
Issuer/corporate credit ratingBaa1BBB+BBB+
Senior unsecured debtBaa1BBBBBB+
Commercial paperP-2A-2F2Ameren Missouri:
Issuer/corporate credit ratingBaa1BBB+BBB+
Secured debtA2AASenior unsecured debtBaa1BBB+A-Commercial paperP-2A-2F2Ameren Illinois:
Issuer/corporate credit ratingA3BBB+BBB+
Secured debtA1AASenior unsecured debtA3BBB+A-Commercial paperP-2A-2F2A credit rating is not a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold securities. It should be evaluated independently of any other
rating. Ratings are subject to revision or withdrawal at any time
by the rating organization.
Collateral Postings Any adverse change in our credit ratings may reduce access to capital and trigger additional collateral postings and prepayments. Such changes may also increase the cost of
borrowing, resulting in a potential negative impact on earnings.
Cash collateral postings and prepayments made with external
parties, including postings related to exchange-traded contracts, at March31, 2015, were $9 million, $8 million, and $1 million at Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois, respectively.
Cash collateral posted by external counterparties with Ameren and Ameren Illinois was $2 million, at March31, 2015. Sub-
investment-grade issuer or senior unsecured debt ratings (lower than "BBB-" or "Baa3") at March31, 2015, could have resulted in Ameren, Ameren Missouri, or Ameren Illinois being required to
post additional collateral or other assurances for certain trade
obligations amounting to $157 million, $83 million, and $74 million, respectively.
Changes in commodity prices could trigger additional collateral postings and prepayments. Based on credit ratings at March 31, 2015, if market prices were 15% higher than March31,
2015 levels in the next 12 months and 20% higher thereafter
through the end of the term of the commodity contracts, then Ameren, Ameren Missouri, or Ameren Illinois would not be
required to post additional collateral or other assurances for
certain trade obligations. Based on credit ratings at March 31, 2015, if market prices were 15% lower than March31, 2015
levels in the next 12 months and 20% lower thereafter through the end of the term of the commodity contracts, then Ameren, Ameren Missouri, or Ameren Illinois could be required to post
additional collateral or other assurances for certain trade
obligations up to $25 million, $13 million, and $12 million, respectively.The balance of Marketing Company's note payable to Ameren for cash collateral requirements was $12 million at March31, 2015. This balance will fluctuate until December 2, 552015, as cash collateral requirements caused by changes in commodity prices could trigger additional collateral postings and prepayments for New AER and thus affect the balance of the note. Ameren's obligation to provide credit support on behalf of New AER will cease on December 2, 2015. If market prices were 15% higher than their March31, 2015 levels in the next 12
months and 20% higher thereafter through the end of the term of the commodity contracts, then Ameren could be required to
provide additional credit support to IPH, up to $19 million. If market prices were 15% lower than their March31, 2015 levels in
the next 12 months and 20% lower thereafter through the end of the term of the commodity contracts, then Ameren could be
required to provide IPH with additional credit support up to $25 million. If, on March31, 2015, Ameren's credit ratings had been below investment grade, Ameren could have been required to post additional cash collateral in support of New AER in the
amount of $20 million.See Note 12 - Divestiture Transactions and Discontinued Operations under Part I, Item 1, of this report for information regarding Ameren (parent) guarantees.
OUTLOOKWe seek to earn competitive returns on investments in our businesses. We are seeking to improve our regulatory frameworks and cost recovery mechanisms and simultaneously
pursuing constructive regulatory outcomes within existing frameworks. We are seeking to align our overall spending, both
operating and capital, with economic conditions and with
regulatory frameworks established by our regulators.
Consequently, we are focused on minimizing the gap between allowed and earned returns on equity. We intend to allocate capital resources to our business opportunities that offer the most
attractive risk-adjusted return potential.
Below are some key trends, events, and uncertainties that are reasonably likely to affect the Ameren Companies' results of operations, financial condition, or liquidity, as well as their ability
to achieve strategic and financial objectives, for 2015 and
beyond.Operations
- Our strategy for earning competitive returns on our investments involves meeting customer energy needs in an efficient fashion, working to enhance regulatory frameworks,
making timely and well-supported rate case filings, and
aligning overall spending with those rate case outcomes,
economic conditions, and return opportunities.* Ameren continues to pursue its plans to invest in FERC-regulated electric transmission. MISO has approved three electric transmission projects to be developed by ATXI. The
first project, Illinois Rivers, involves the construction of a
345-kilovolt line from western Indiana across the state of Illinois to eastern Missouri. The first sections of the Illinois Rivers project are expected to be completed in 2016. The
last section of this project is expected to be completed by 2019. The Spoon River project in northwest Illinois and the Mark Twain project in northeast Missouri are the other two MISO-approved projects to be constructed by ATXI. These two projects are expected to be completed in 2018. The total
investment in these three projects is expected to be more than $1.4 billion during 2015 through 2019. This total includes over $100 million of investment by Ameren Illinois
to construct connections to its existing transmission system.
Separate from the three projects discussed above, Ameren
Illinois expects to invest approximately $900 million in
electric transmission assets during 2015 through 2019 to
address load growth and reliability requirements.* Both Ameren Illinois and ATXI use a forward-looking rate calculation with an annual revenue requirement reconciliation for each company's electric transmission business. Using the rates that became effective on January 1, 2015, and the currently allowed 12.38% return on equity, the 2015 revenue requirement for Ameren Illinois' electric
transmission business would be $199 million, which
represents a $40 million increase over the 2014 revenue requirement due to rate base growth. These rates also
reflect a capital structure composed of approximately 54%
common equity and a rate base of $890 million. Using the rates that became effective on January 1, 2015, and the currently allowed 12.38% return on equity, the 2015 revenue requirement for ATXI's electric transmission business would
be $80 million, which represents a $46 million increase over
the 2014 revenue requirement due to rate base growth, primarily as a result of the Illinois Rivers project. These rates
also reflect a capital structure composed of approximately
56% common equity and a rate base of $536 million.* The 12.38% return is the subject of two FERC complaint proceedings that challenge the allowed return on common
equity for MISO transmission owners. In January 2015, the
FERC scheduled the initial case for hearing proceedings,
requiring an initial decision to be issued no later than November 30, 2015. Ameren and Ameren Illinois recorded
current liabilities on their respective balance sheets as of
March 31, 2015, and December 31, 2014, representing their estimate of the refunds from the refund effective date of
November 12, 2013, through the respective balance sheet date. A 50 basis point reduction in the FERC-allowed return on common equity would reduce Ameren's and Ameren
Illinois' 2015 earnings by an estimated $4 million and $2 million, respectively, based on 2015 projected rate base.
- In January 2015, the FERC approved our request to implement an incentive adder of up to 50 basis points on the
allowed base return on common equity prospectively from
January 6, 2015, and to defer collection of the incentive
adder until the issuance of the final order addressing the
initial MISO complaint case discussed above.
- In April 2015, the MoPSC issued an order approving an increase in Ameren Missouri's annual revenues for electric
service of$122 million, including $109 million related to the
increase in net energy costs above the net energy costs
included in base rates previously authorized by the MoPSC.
The remaining increase of $13 million approved by the order was for non-energy costs. The revenue increase was based on a 9.53%return on common equity, a capital structure composed of51.8%common equity, and a rate base of$7.0
billion to reflect investments through December 31, 2014.
56Rate changes consistent with the order will become effective on May 30, 2015. The order approved Ameren Missouri's request for continued use of the FAC; however, it changed the FAC to exclude substantially all transmission charges
and revenues. In addition, the order did not approve the
continued use of regulatory tracking mechanisms for storm
costs and vegetation management and infrastructure inspection costs. These changes to Ameren Missouri's
recovery mechanisms are expected to contribute to
regulatory lag. For example, transmission charges previously included in the FAC that will now be included in
base rates totaled $30 million in 2014 and are expected to
increase to $36 million in 2015, with further cost increases expected in the foreseeable future. However, transmission
revenues totaled $34 million in 2014 and are expected to
increase to $36 million in 2015 and remain relatively constant in the foreseeable future. The order is also
expected to result in a net $35 million annual increase in
depreciation and amortization expenses as a result of
amortizing the previously deferred solar rebate costs and
the adjustment of other depreciation and amortization rates.
Other operations and maintenance expenses are expected
to decrease by $19 million as a result of incorporating a
reduced amount of pension and postretirement benefit costs
in base rates.* Ameren Missouri's current MEEIA plan provides for a cumulative investment in customer energy efficiency
programs of $147 million during 2013 through 2015.
Additionally, the plan provides for a performance incentive that would allow Ameren Missouri to earn additional revenues based on achievement of certain energy efficiency goals, including $19 million if 100% of its energy efficiency
goals are achieved during the three-year period, with the potential to earn more if Ameren Missouri's energy savings exceed those goals. Ameren Missouri expects to achieve the energy efficiency goals and will recognize revenues
associated with the performance incentive within the next two years. Ameren Missouri records revenues based on the
net shared benefits associated with the reduction in
customer energy usage that results from its energy efficiency programs. From January 2013 through March 2015, Ameren Missouri has recorded revenues of $100
million associated with the net shared benefits based on the megawatthour reductions provided by the MEEIA customer energy efficiency programs both in the program period and
in the future.* In December 2014, Ameren Missouri filed a proposed energy efficiency plan for 2016 through 2018 with the MoPSC under the MEEIA. The amount of investment, net
shared benefits, and performance incentive under this
proposed plan are lower than the 2013 through 2015 plan.
The terms of any new plan are subject to MoPSC approval
and are currently uncertain.
- The IEIMA provides for an annual reconciliation of the revenue requirement necessary to reflect the actual costs
incurred in a given year with the revenue requirement that was reflected in customer rates for that year. Consequently,
Ameren Illinois' 2015 electric delivery service revenues will
be based on its 2015 actual recoverable costs, rate base, and return on common equity as calculated under the
IEIMA's performance-based formula ratemaking framework.
The 2015 revenue requirement is expected to be higher
than the 2014 revenue requirement, due to an expected
increase in recoverable costs and rate base growth, partially offset by a reduction in the allowed return on equity due to lower United States Treasury bond yields. A 50 basis point
change in the average monthly yields of the 30-year United States Treasury bonds would result in an estimated $6 million change in Ameren's and Ameren Illinois' 2015 net
income.* In December 2014, the ICC approved a $204 million increase in Ameren Illinois' electric delivery service revenue requirement, beginning in January 2015. These rates have affected and will continue to affect Ameren Illinois' cash
receipts during 2015, but will not be the sole determinant of
its electric delivery service operating revenues, which will
instead be largely determined by the IEIMA's 2015 revenue requirement reconciliation. The 2015 revenue requirement
reconciliation is expected to result in a regulatory asset that
will be collected from customers in 2017.
- In April 2015, Ameren Illinois filed with the ICC its annual electric delivery service formula rate update to establish the
revenue requirement used to set rates for 2016. Pending ICC approval, Ameren Illinois' update filing will result in a
$110 million increase in Ameren Illinois' electric delivery
service revenue requirement beginning in January 2016.
This update reflects an increase to the annual formula rate
based on 2014 actual costs and expected net plant
additions for 2015 and an increase to include the 2014
revenue requirement reconciliation adjustment.
- In January 2015, Ameren Illinois filed a request with the ICC seeking approval to increase its annual revenues for natural gas delivery service by $53 million. A decision by the ICC in
this proceeding is required by December 2015, and new rates are expected to be effective in January 2016.
- Ameren Missouri's next scheduled refueling and maintenance outage at its Callaway energy center will be in the spring of 2016. During the 2014 refueling, Ameren
Missouri incurred maintenance expenses of $36 million.
During a scheduled outage, which occurs every 18 months,
maintenance expenses increase relative to non-outage years. Additionally, depending on the availability of its other generation sources and the market prices for power, Ameren
Missouri's purchased power costs may increase and the
amount of excess power available for sale may decrease
versus non-outage years. Changes in purchased power
costs and excess power available for sale are included in the FAC, resulting in limited impacts to earnings.* As of March31, 2015, Ameren Missouri had capitalized $69 million of costs incurred to license additional nuclear generation at its Callaway energy site. In 2009, Ameren Missouri suspended its efforts to build a new nuclear unit at
the Callaway site, and the NRC suspended review of the COL application. The suspended status of the COL
application currently extends through the end of 2015. If efforts to license additional nuclear generation are abandoned, the NRC does not extend the COL application
suspended status, or if management concludes that it is 57probable the costs incurred will be disallowed in rates, a charge to earnings would be recognized in the period in
which that determination was made.* Ameren Missouri is engaged in litigation with an insurer to recover an unpaid liability insurance claim for the December 2005 breach of the upper reservoir at Ameren Missouri's Taum Sauk pumped-storage hydroelectric energy center.
Ameren's and Ameren Missouri's results of operations, financial position, and liquidity could be adversely affected if Ameren Missouri's insurance receivable of $41 million as of March31, 2015, is not paid by the insurer.
- Under the provisions of the CSRA, Ameren Illinois received ICC approval for its QIP rider in January 2015 and
subsequently began including qualified investments and recording revenue under this regulatory framework. Ameren
Illinois started recovering costs from these investments in
March 2015.* As we continue to experience cost increases and to make infrastructure investments, Ameren Missouri and Ameren
Illinois expect to seek regular electric and natural gas rate
increases and timely cost recovery and tracking mechanisms from their regulators. Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois will also seek, as necessary, legislative
solutions to address cost recovery pressures and to support investment in their energy infrastructure. These pressures
include limited economic growth in their service territories, customer conservation efforts, the impacts of additional customer energy efficiency programs, increased use of
distributed generation, increased investments and expected
future investments for environmental compliance, system reliability improvements, and new generation capacity,
including renewable energy requirements. Increased
investments also result in higher depreciation and financing
costs. Increased costs are also expected from rising
employee benefit costs and higher property and income
taxes, among others.
For additional information regarding recent rate orders and related appeals, pending requests filed with state and federal regulatory commissions, and Taum Sauk matters, see Note 2 -
Rate and Regulatory Matters, Note 9 - Commitments and
Contingencies, and Note 10 - Callaway Energy Center under Part
I, Item 1, of this report and Note 2 - Rate and Regulatory Matters
under Part II, Item 8, of the Form 10-K.
Liquidity and Capital Resources* We expect to incur significant capital expenditures in order to make investments to improve our electric and natural gas utility infrastructure and to comply with existing environmental regulations. We estimate that we will incur up to $9.3 billion (Ameren Missouri - up to $3.9 billion; Ameren Illinois - up to $4.0 billion; ATXI- up to $1.4 billion) of capital
expenditures during the period from 2015 through 2019.* Existing and future environmental regulations, including those related to greenhouse gas emissions, or other actions taken by the EPA, could result in significant increases in capital expenditures and operating costs. These costs could be prohibitive at some of Ameren Missouri's coal-fired energy centers. Ameren Missouri's capital expenditures are
subject to MoPSC prudence reviews, which could result in cost disallowances as well as regulatory lag. The cost of Ameren Illinois' purchased power and gas purchased for resale could increase; however, Ameren Illinois expects
these costs would be recovered from customers with no material adverse effect on its results of operations, financial position, or liquidity. Ameren's and Ameren Missouri's
earnings could benefit from increased investment to comply
with environmental regulations if those investments are
reflected and recovered timely in rates.* Ameren Missouri continues to evaluate its longer-term needs for new baseload and peaking electric generation capacity. Ameren Missouri files a non-binding integrated resource plan with the MoPSC every three years. Ameren Missouri's integrated resource plan filed with the MoPSC in
October 2014 is a 20-year plan that supports a more fuel-diverse energy portfolio in Missouri, including coal, solar, wind, natural gas and nuclear power. The plan includes
expanding renewable generation, retiring coal-fired
generation as energy centers reach the end of their useful
lives, and adding natural-gas-fired combined cycle generation. Ameren Missouri continues to study future alternatives, including additional customer energy efficiency
programs, that could help defer new energy center construction. Ameren Missouri's integrated resource plan is
projected to achieve the final carbon emissions reduction targets proposed in the EPA's Clean Power Plan by 2035, rather than the EPA's final target date of 2030 or its interim target dates beginning in 2020. The EPA expects the
proposed rule will be finalized in 2015.* Ameren Missouri continues to evaluate its potential compliance plans for the proposed Clean Power Plan. If the
proposed Clean Power Plan were to be implemented in its current form, Ameren Missouri may need to incur new or
accelerated capital expenditures and increased fuel costs in order to achieve compliance. As proposed, the Clean Power
Plan would require states, including Missouri and Illinois, to
submit compliance plans as early as 2016. Compliance plans might require Ameren Missouri to construct natural-
gas-fired combined cycle generation and renewable
generation, currently estimated to cost approximately $2 billion by 2020, that Ameren Missouri believes would
otherwise not be necessary to meet the energy needs of its customers. Additionally, Missouri's implementation of the
proposed rules, if adopted, could result in the closure or alteration of the operation of some of Ameren Missouri's
coal and natural gas-fired energy centers, which could result
in increased operating costs or impairment of assets.
58* To fund investment requirements of our businesses, we seek to maintain access to the capital markets at commercially attractive rates. We seek to enhance
regulatory frameworks and returns in order to improve liquidity, credit metrics, and access to capital.* The Ameren Companies have multiyear credit agreements that cumulatively provide $2.1 billion of credit through December 11, 2019, subject to a 364-day repayment term in the case of Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois. See Note
3 - Short-term Debt and Liquidity under Part I, Item 1, of this
report for additional information regarding the 2012 Credit Agreements. Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois
believe that their liquidity is adequate given their expected
operating cash flows, capital expenditures, and related financing plans. However, there can be no assurance that
significant changes in economic conditions, disruptions in
the capital and credit markets, or other unforeseen events will not materially affect their ability to execute their
expected operating, capital, or financing plans.* As of March31, 2015, Ameren had $511 million in tax benefits from federal and state net operating loss carryforwards (Ameren Missouri - $74 million and Ameren
Illinois - $134 million) and $134 million in federal and state
income tax credit carryforwards (Ameren Missouri - $24 million and Ameren Illinois - $1 million). These tax benefits
are subject to audits and examinations by taxing authorities for years 2013 and 2014. The amount of these tax benefits
has not been reduced by any unrecognized tax benefits.
Consistent with the tax allocation agreement between
Ameren and its subsidiaries, these carryforwards are expected to partially offset income tax liabilities for Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois during 2015 and 2016, while
Ameren does not expect to make material federal income tax payments until 2017. In addition, Ameren has $55 million
of expected income tax refunds and state overpayments that would offset income tax liabilities into 2017. These tax benefits, primarily at the Ameren (parent) level, when
realized, would be available to fund electric transmission investments, specifically ATXI's Illinois Rivers project.* Ameren expects its cash used for capital expenditures and dividends to exceed cash provided by operating activities over the next several years. Ameren does not expect the
need for public equity issuances to fund such cash
shortfalls, but may consider issuing stock through its
DRPlus and its 401(k) plans.
- The use of cash from operating activities and short-term borrowings to fund capital expenditures and other long-term
investments may periodically result in a working capital
deficit, defined by current liabilities exceeding current assets, as was the case at March31, 2015. The working capital deficit as of March31, 2015, was primarily the result of increased commercial paper issuances. The Ameren
Companies had $955 million of commercial paper issuances outstanding as of March31, 2015. With the 2012 Credit Agreements, the Ameren Companies have access to $2.1 billion of credit capacity, of which $1.1 billion was available at March31, 2015. In April 2015, Ameren Missouri issued
$250 million of 3.65% senior secured notes. The proceeds
Ameren Missouri received as a result of the issuance were
used to repay outstanding short-term debt, including short-term debt that Ameren Missouri incurred in connection with the repayment of $114 million of its 4.75% senior secured notes that matured on April 1, 2015.
The above items could have a material impact on our results of operations, financial position, or liquidity. Additionally, in the
ordinary course of business, we evaluate strategies to enhance our results of operations, financial position, or liquidity. These
strategies may include acquisitions, divestitures, and
opportunities to reduce costs or increase revenues, and other strategic initiatives to increase Ameren's stockholder value. We are unable to predict which, if any, of these initiatives will be executed. The execution of these initiatives may have a material
impact on our future results of operations, financial position, or liquidity.REGULATORY MATTERS See Note 2 - Rate and Regulatory Matters under Part I, Item 1, of this report.ITEM3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK.
Market risk is the risk of changes in value of a physical asset or a financial instrument, derivative or nonderivative, caused by
fluctuations in market variables such as interest rates, commodity prices, and equity security prices. A derivative is a contract whose
value is dependent on, or derived from, the value of some underlying asset or index. The following discussion of our risk
management activities includes forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ
materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements.
We handle market risk in accordance with established policies,
which may include entering into various derivative transactions.
In the normal course of business, we also face risks that are
either nonfinancial or nonquantifiable. Such risks, principally
business, legal, and operational risks, are not part of the following
discussion.
Our risk management objectives are to optimize our physical generating assets and to pursue market opportunities within
prudent risk parameters. Our risk management policies are set by
a risk management steering committee, which is composed of senior-level Ameren officers, with Ameren board of directors
oversight.
There have been no material changes to the quantitative and qualitative disclosures about interest rate risk, credit risk,
equity price risk, commodity price risk, and commodity supplier
risk included in the Form 10-K. See Item7A, under Part II, of the
Form 10-K for a more detailed discussion of our market risk.
59Fair Value of ContractsWe use derivatives principally to manage the risk of changes in market prices for natural gas, power, and uranium, as well as the risk of changes in rail transportation surcharges through fuel oil hedges. The following table presents the favorable (unfavorable) changes in the fair value of all derivative contracts marked-to-market during the three months ended March 31, 2015. We use various methods to determine the
fair value of our contracts. In accordance with authoritative accounting guidance for fair value hierarchy levels, the sources we used to
determine the fair value of these contracts were active quotes (Level 1), inputs corroborated by market data (Level 2), and other modeling and valuation methods that are not corroborated by market data (Level 3). See Note 7 - Fair Value Measurements under Part I, Item1, of this
report for additional information regarding the methods used to determine the fair value of these contracts.
AmerenMissouriAmerenIllinoisAmerenFair value of contracts at beginning of year, net
$(28)$(185)$(213)Contracts realized or otherwise settled during the period
-1111Fair value of new contracts entered into during the period
-(3)(3)Other changes in fair value (8)(36)(44)Fair value of contracts outstanding at end of period, net
$(36)$(213)$(249)The following table presents maturities of derivative contracts as of March31, 2015, based on the hierarchy levels used to determine the fair value of the contracts:
Sources of Fair Value MaturityLessthan1 YearMaturity1-3Years Maturity3-5Years Maturityin Excessof5 YearsTotalFairValue Ameren Missouri:
Level 1$(15)$(6)$-$-$(21)Level 2(a)(4)(5)(2)-(11)Level 3(b)(2)(2)--(4)Total$(21)$(13)$(2)$-$(36)Ameren Illinois:
Level 1$-$-$-$-$-Level 2(a)(32)(17)(1)-(50)Level 3(b)(10)(20)(19)(114)(163)Total$(42)$(37)$(20)$(114)$(213)
Ameren:
Level 1$(15)$(6)$-$-$(21)Level 2(a)(36)(22)(3)-(61)Level 3(b)(12)(22)(19)(114)(167)Total$(63)$(50)$(22)$(114)$(249)(a) Principally fixed-price vs. floating over-the-counter power swaps, power forwards, and fixed-price vs. floating over-the-counter natural gas swaps.(b) Principally power forward contract values based on information from external sources, historical results, and our estimates. Level 3 also includes option contract values based on a Black-Scholes model.ITEM4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES.(a) Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and ProceduresAs of March31, 2015, evaluations were performed under the supervision and with the participation of management, including the principal executive officer and principal financial officer of each of the Ameren Companies, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of such registrant's disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) of the Exchange Act). Based on those evaluations, as of March31, 2015, the principal executive officer and the principal financial officer of each of the Ameren Companies concluded that such disclosure controls and procedures are effective to provide assurance that information required to be disclosed in such registrant's reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC's rules and forms and such information is accumulated and communicated to its management, including its principal executive and its principal financial officers, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.(b) Changes in Internal Controls over Financial ReportingThere has been no change in any of the Ameren Companies' internal control over financial reporting during their most recent fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, each of their internal control over financial reporting.
60PART II. OTHER INFORMATIONITEM1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.We are involved in legal and administrative proceedings before various courts and agencies with respect to matters that arise in the ordinary course of business, some of which involve substantial amounts of money. We believe that the final disposition of these proceedings, except as otherwise disclosed in this report, will not have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial position, or liquidity.
Risk of loss is mitigated, in some cases, by insurance or contractual or statutory indemnification. Material legal and administrative
proceedings, which are discussed in Note 2 - Rate and Regulatory Matters, Note 9 - Commitments and Contingencies, and Note 10 -
Callaway Energy Center, under Part I, Item1, of this report or Note 2 - Rate and Regulatory Matters under Part II, Item8, of the Form 10-K
and incorporated herein by reference, include the following:* the MoPSC's April 2015 electric rate order;* Ameren Missouri's MEEIA filing with the MoPSC in December 2014;
- Ameren Illinois' annual electric delivery service formula rate update filed with the ICC in April 2015;
- ATXI's request for a certificate of public convenience and necessity and project approval from the ICC for the Spoon River project;
- Ameren Illinois' settlement agreement regarding an electric transmission rate refund pending FERC approval;
- the complaint cases filed with the FERC seeking a reduction in the allowed base return on common equity under the MISO tariff;
- remediation matters associated with former MGP and waste disposal sites of the Ameren Companies;
- litigation associated with Ameren Missouri's liability insurance claim for the breach of the upper reservoir of its Taum Sauk pumped-storage hydroelectric energy center in December 2005; and* asbestos-related litigation associated with the Ameren Companies.ITEM1A. RISK FACTORS.
There have been no material changes to the risk factors disclosed in Part I, Item 1A, Risk Factors in the Form 10-K.ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS.The following table presents Ameren Corporation's purchases of equity securities reportable under Item703 of Regulation S-K:
Period(a)TotalNumber of Shares (or Units)
Purchased (a)(b)AveragePrice Paid per Share (or Unit)(c)TotalNumberofShares (orUnits)PurchasedasPart ofPubliclyAnnouncedPlans or Programs (d)MaximumNumber(orApproximateDollarValue)ofShares (or Units) that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or ProgramsJanuary1 - January 31, 201514,092$46.14--February1 - February 28,2015 2,40041.94--March1 - March 31, 2015 377,36942.07--Total393,861$42.21--(a) Included in January and February were 16,492 shares of Ameren common stock purchased in open-market transactions pursuant to Ameren's 2014 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan in satisfaction of Ameren's obligations for Ameren board of directors' compensation awards. The remaining shares of Ameren common stock were purchased in open-market transactions pursuant to Ameren's 2014 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan in satisfaction of Ameren's obligation to distribute shares of common stock for vested performance units. Ameren does not have any publicly announced equity securities repurchase plans or programs.Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois did not purchase equity securities reportable under Item703 of Regulation S-K during the period from January 1, 2015, to March31, 2015.
61ITEM6. EXHIBITS. The documents listed below are being filed or have previously been filed on behalf of the Ameren Companies and are incorporated herein by reference from the documents indicated and made a part hereof. Exhibits not identified as previously filed are filed herewith.
ExhibitDesignationRegistrant(s)
Nature of Exhibit Previously Filed as Exhibit to:
Material Contracts 10.1Ameren Consulting Agreement between Charles D. Naslund and Ameren Services Company, dated March 2, 2015 Statement re: Computation of Ratios 12.1AmerenAmeren's Statement of Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges 12.2AmerenMissouriAmeren Missouri's Statement of Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed
Charges and Combined Fixed Charges and Preferred Stock Dividend
Requirements 12.3Ameren IllinoisAmeren Illinois' Statement of Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges
and Combined Fixed Charges and Preferred Stock Dividend Requirements Rule 13a-14(a) / 15d-14(a) Certifications 31.1AmerenRule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Principal Executive Officer of Ameren 31.2AmerenRule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Principal Financial Officer of Ameren 31.3AmerenMissouriRule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Principal Executive Officer of Ameren
Missouri31.4Ameren MissouriRule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Principal Financial Officer of Ameren
Missouri31.5Ameren IllinoisRule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Principal Executive Officer of Ameren
Illinois31.6Ameren IllinoisRule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Principal Financial Officer of Ameren
IllinoisSection 1350 Certifications 32.1AmerenSection 1350 Certification of Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer of Ameren 32.2Ameren MissouriSection 1350 Certification of Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial
Officer of Ameren Missouri 32.3Ameren IllinoisSection 1350 Certification of Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial
Officer of Ameren Illinois Interactive Data Files101.INSAmeren Companies XBRL Instance Document101.SCHAmeren Companies XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document101.CALAmeren Companies XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document101.LABAmeren Companies XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document101.PREAmeren Companies XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document101.DEFAmeren Companies XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition DocumentThe file number references for the Ameren Companies' filings with the SEC are: Ameren, 1-14756; Ameren Missouri, 1-2967; and Ameren Illinois, 1-3672.
Each registrant hereby undertakes to furnish to the SEC upon request a copy of any long-term debt instrument not listed above that such registrant has not filed as an exhibit pursuant to the exemption provided by Item601(b)(4)(iii)(A) of Regulation S-K.
62SIGNATURESPursuant to the requirements of the Exchange Act, each registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized. The signature for each undersigned company shall be deemed to relate only to matters having reference to such company or its subsidiaries.AMEREN CORPORATION (Registrant)
/s/ Martin J. Lyons, Jr.Martin J. Lyons, Jr.Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)UNION ELECTRIC COMPANY (Registrant)
/s/ Martin J. Lyons, Jr.Martin J. Lyons, Jr.Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)AMEREN ILLINOIS COMPANY (Registrant)
/s/ Martin J. Lyons, Jr.Martin J. Lyons, Jr.Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)Date: May 11, 2015 Exhibit 12.1 Ameren Corporation Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges (Thousands of Dollars, Except Ratios)
Three Months Ended March 31, 2015Earnings available for fixed charges, as defined:
Net income from continuing operations attributable to Ameren Corporation$107,954Income from equity investee(88)Tax expense based on income 65,804Fixed charges excluding subsidiary preferred stock dividends tax adjustment (a)94,366Earnings available for fixed charges, as defined$268,036Fixed charges, as defined:
Interest expense on short-term and long-term debt (a)$85,366Estimated interest cost within rental expense 1,901Amortization of net debt premium, discount, and expenses 5,488Subsidiary preferred stock dividends 1,611Adjust subsidiary preferred stock dividends to pretax basis 1,004Total fixed charges, as defined$95,370Consolidated ratio of earnings to fixed charges 2.81(a) Includes net interest related to uncertain tax positions.
Exhibit 12.2 Union Electric Company Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges and Combined Fixed Charges and Preferred Stock Dividend Requirements (Thousands of Dollars, Except Ratios)
Three Months Ended March 31, 2015Earnings available for fixed charges, as defined:
Net income
$42,353Tax expense based on income 25,838Fixed charges (a)58,399Earnings available for fixed charges, as defined
$126,590Fixed charges, as defined:
Interest expense on short-term and long-term debt (a)$55,810Estimated interest cost within rental expense 930Amortization of net debt premium, discount, and expenses 1,659Total fixed charges, as defined
$58,399Ratio of earnings to fixed charges 2.17Earnings required for combined fixed charges and preferred stock dividends:
Preferred stock dividends
$855Adjustment to pretax basis 522$1,377Combined fixed charges and preferred stock dividend requirements
$59,776Ratio of earnings to combined fixed charges and preferred stock dividend requirements 2.12(a) Includes net interest related to uncertain tax positions.
Exhibit 12.3 Ameren Illinois Company Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges and Combined Fixed Charges and Preferred Stock Dividend Requirements (Thousands of Dollars, Except Ratios)
Three Months Ended March 31, 2015Earnings available for fixed charges, as defined:
Net income$54,230Tax expense based on income 34,598Fixed charges (a)34,939Earnings available for fixed charges, as defined$123,767Fixed charges, as defined:
Interest expense on short-term and long-term debt (a)$30,426Estimated interest cost within rental expense 961Amortization of net debt premium, discount, and expenses 3,552Total fixed charges, as defined$34,939Ratio of earnings to fixed charges 3.54Earnings required for combined fixed charges and preferred stock dividends:
Preferred stock dividends
$756Adjustment to pretax basis 482$1,238Combined fixed charges and preferred stock dividend requirements$36,177Ratio of earnings to combined fixed charges and preferred stock dividend requirements 3.42(a) Includes net interest related to uncertain tax positions.
Exhibit 31.1RULE 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) CERTIFICATIONOF PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF AMEREN CORPORATION(required by Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002) I, Warner L. Baxter, certify that: 1. I have reviewed this report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2015 of Ameren Corporation;
- 2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not
misleading with respect to the period covered by this report; 3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the
periods presented in this report; 4. The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its
consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period
in which this report is being prepared;b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of
financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles;c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the
period covered by this report based on such evaluation; andd) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control
over financial reporting; and 5. The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or
persons performing the equivalent functions):
a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process,
summarize and report financial information; andb) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.Date: May 11, 2015
/s/ Warner L. BaxterWarner L. BaxterChairman, President and Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer)
Exhibit 31.2RULE 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) CERTIFICATIONOF PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL OFFICER OF AMEREN CORPORATION(required by Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002) I, Martin J. Lyons, Jr., certify that: 1. I have reviewed this report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2015 of Ameren Corporation;
- 2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not
misleading with respect to the period covered by this report; 3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the
periods presented in this report; 4. The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its
consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period
in which this report is being prepared;b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of
financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles;c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the
period covered by this report based on such evaluation; andd) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control
over financial reporting; and 5. The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or
persons performing the equivalent functions):a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process,
summarize and report financial information; andb) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.Date: May 11, 2015
/s/ Martin J. Lyons, Jr.Martin J. Lyons, Jr.Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)
Exhibit 31.3RULE 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) CERTIFICATIONOF PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF UNION ELECTRIC COMPANY (required by Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002) I, Michael L. Moehn, certify that: 1. I have reviewed this report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2015 of UnionElectric Company; 2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not
misleading with respect to the period covered by this report; 3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the
periods presented in this report; 4. The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its
consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period
in which this report is being prepared;b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of
financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles;c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the
period covered by this report based on such evaluation; andd) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control
over financial reporting; and 5. The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or
persons performing the equivalent functions):a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process,
summarize and report financial information; andb) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.Date: May 11, 2015
/s/ Michael L. Moehn Michael L. Moehn Chairman and President (Principal Executive Officer)
Exhibit 31.4RULE 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) CERTIFICATIONOF PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL OFFICER OF UNION ELECTRIC COMPANY (required by Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002) I, Martin J. Lyons, Jr., certify that: 1. I have reviewed this report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2015 of UnionElectric Company; 2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not
misleading with respect to the period covered by this report; 3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the
periods presented in this report; 4. The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its
consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period
in which this report is being prepared;b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of
financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles;c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the
period covered by this report based on such evaluation; andd) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control
over financial reporting; and 5. The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or
persons performing the equivalent functions):a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process,
summarize and report financial information; andb) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.Date: May 11, 2015
/s/ Martin J. Lyons, Jr.Martin J. Lyons, Jr.Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)
Exhibit 31.5RULE 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) CERTIFICATIONOF PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF AMEREN ILLINOIS COMPANY (required by Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002) I, Richard J. Mark, certify that: 1. I have reviewed this report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2015 of Ameren Illinois Company; 2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not
misleading with respect to the period covered by this report; 3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the
periods presented in this report; 4. The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its
consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period
in which this report is being prepared;b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of
financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles;c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the
period covered by this report based on such evaluation; andd) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control
over financial reporting; and 5. The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or
persons performing the equivalent functions):a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process,
summarize and report financial information; andb) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.Date: May 11, 2015
/s/ Richard J. Mark Richard J. Mark Chairman and President (Principal Executive Officer)
Exhibit 31.6RULE 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) CERTIFICATIONOF PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL OFFICER OF AMEREN ILLINOIS COMPANY (required by Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002) I, Martin J. Lyons, Jr., certify that: 1. I have reviewed this report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2015 of Ameren Illinois Company; 2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not
misleading with respect to the period covered by this report; 3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the
periods presented in this report; 4. The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its
consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period
in which this report is being prepared;b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of
financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles;c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the
period covered by this report based on such evaluation; andd) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control
over financial reporting; and 5. The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or
persons performing the equivalent functions):a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process,
summarize and report financial information; andb) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.Date: May 11, 2015
/s/ Martin J. Lyons, Jr.Martin J. Lyons, Jr.Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)
Exhibit 32.1SECTION 1350 CERTIFICATION OF THE PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICER AND THE PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL OFFICER OFAMEREN CORPORATION (required by Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002)In connection with the report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2015 of AmerenCorporation (the"Registrant") as filed by the Registrant with the Securities and Exchange Commission onthe date hereof (the "Form 10-Q"), each undersigned officer of the Registrant does hereby certify, pursuant to 18U.S.C. §1350, as adopted pursuant to §906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:(1) The Form 10-Q fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (15U.S.C. 78m or 78o(d)); and(2) The information contained in the Form 10-Q fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Registrant.Date: May 11, 2015
/s/ Warner L. BaxterWarner L. BaxterChairman, President and Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer)
/s/ Martin J. Lyons, Jr.Martin J. Lyons, Jr.Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)
Exhibit 32.2SECTION 1350 CERTIFICATION OF THE PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICERAND THE PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL OFFICER OFUNION ELECTRIC COMPANY (required by Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002)
In connection with the report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2015 of UnionElectric Company (the "Registrant") as filed by the Registrant with the Securities and Exchange Commissiononthe date hereof (the "Form 10-Q"), each undersigned officer of the Registrant does hereby certify, pursuant to 18U.S.C. §1350, as adopted pursuant to §906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:(1) The Form 10-Q fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (15U.S.C. 78m or 78o(d)); and(2) The information contained in the Form 10-Q fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Registrant.Date: May 11, 2015
/s/ Michael L. Moehn Michael L. Moehn Chairman and President (Principal Executive Officer)
/s/ Martin J. Lyons, Jr.Martin J. Lyons, Jr.Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)
Exhibit 32.3SECTION 1350 CERTIFICATION OF THE PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICERAND THE PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL OFFICER OFAMEREN ILLINOIS COMPANY (required by Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002)In connection with the report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2015 of Ameren Illinois Company (the "Registrant") as filed by the Registrant with the Securities and Exchange Commission onthe date hereof (the "Form 10-Q"), each undersigned officer of the Registrant does herebycertify, pursuant to 18U.S.C. §1350, as adopted pursuant to §906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:(1) The Form 10-Q fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (15U.S.C. 78m or 78o(d)); and(2) The information contained in the Form 10-Q fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Registrant.Date: May 11, 2015
/s/ Richard J. Mark Richard J. Mark Chairman and President (Principal Executive Officer)
/s/ Martin J. Lyons, Jr.Martin J. Lyons, Jr.Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)