Item 1. Financial Statements
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
AMPLIFY ENERGY CORP.
UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands, except outstanding shares)
September 30,
December 31,
2023
2022
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents
$
6,387
$
—
Accounts receivable, net (see Note 12)
47,864
80,455
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
24,003
18,789
Total current assets
78,254
99,244
Property and equipment, at cost:
Oil and natural gas properties, successful efforts method
866,051
840,310
Support equipment and facilities
149,227
147,496
Other
10,149
9,648
Accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization
( 678,531 )
( 658,162 )
Property and equipment, net
346,896
339,292
Restricted investments
17,725
11,326
Operating lease - long term right-of-use asset
6,025
7,376
Deferred tax asset
264,130
—
Other long-term assets
4,075
2,240
Total assets
$
717,105
$
459,478
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable
$
18,708
$
38,414
Revenues payable
21,199
22,105
Accrued liabilities (see Note 12)
55,354
58,449
Short-term derivative instruments
12,996
20,884
Total current liabilities
108,257
139,852
Long-term debt (see Note 7)
120,000
190,000
Asset retirement obligations
119,856
114,614
Long-term derivative instruments
7,834
—
Operating lease liability
5,414
6,567
Other long-term liabilities
9,707
13,010
Total liabilities
371,068
464,043
Commitments and contingencies (see Note 14)
Stockholders' equity (deficit):
Preferred stock, $ 0.01 par value: 50,000,000 shares authorized; no shares issued and outstanding at September 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022
—
—
Common stock, $ 0.01 par value: 250,000,000 shares authorized; 39,062,856 and 38,459,731 shares issued and outstanding at September 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively
392
386
Additional paid-in capital
433,675
432,251
Accumulated deficit
( 88,030 )
( 437,202 )
Total stockholders' equity (deficit)
346,037
( 4,565 )
Total liabilities and equity
$
717,105
$
459,478
See Accompanying Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
8
Table of Contents
AMPLIFY ENERGY CORP.
UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(In thousands, except per share amounts)
For the Three Months Ended
For the Nine Months Ended
September 30,
September 30,
2023
2022
2023
2022
Revenues:
Oil and natural gas sales
$
76,403
$
112,812
$
210,080
$
319,562
Other revenues
367
13,487
18,531
39,947
Total revenues
76,770
126,299
228,611
359,509
Costs and expenses:
Lease operating expense
37,083
32,048
104,946
98,253
Gathering, processing and transportation
4,984
7,483
15,735
22,774
Taxes other than income
4,942
9,152
15,440
25,328
Depreciation, depletion and amortization
7,489
6,296
20,369
17,795
General and administrative expense
8,255
6,965
24,547
23,364
Accretion of asset retirement obligations
2,005
1,773
5,922
5,242
Loss (gain) on commodity derivative instruments
23,328
( 3,300 )
4,371
108,675
Pipeline incident loss
559
2,606
15,682
8,278
Pipeline incident settlement
—
12,000
—
12,000
Other, net
449
93
728
534
Total costs and expenses
89,094
75,116
207,740
322,243
Operating income (loss)
( 12,324 )
51,183
20,871
37,266
Other income (expense):
Interest expense, net
( 4,470 )
( 3,974 )
( 13,908 )
( 9,499 )
Litigation settlement (See Note 14)
—
—
84,875
—
Other income (expense)
124
25
319
73
Total other income (expense)
( 4,346 )
( 3,949 )
71,286
( 9,426 )
Income (loss) before income taxes
( 16,670 )
47,234
92,157
27,840
Income tax (expense) benefit - current
( 1,441 )
—
( 7,115 )
—
Income tax (expense) benefit - deferred
4,708
—
264,130
—
Net income (loss)
$
( 13,403 )
$
47,234
$
349,172
$
27,840
Allocation of net income (loss) to:
Net income (loss) available to common stockholders
$
( 13,403 )
$
44,962
$
333,401
$
26,530
Net income (loss) allocated to participating securities
—
2,272
15,771
1,310
Net income (loss) available to Amplify Energy Corp.
$
( 13,403 )
$
47,234
$
349,172
$
27,840
Earnings (loss) per share: (See Note 9)
Basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share
$
( 0.34 )
$
1.17
$
8.57
$
0.69
Weighted average common shares outstanding:
Basic and diluted
39,063
38,441
38,911
38,318
See Accompanying Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
9
Table of Contents
AMPLIFY ENERGY CORP.
UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(In thousands)
For the Nine Months Ended
September 30,
2023
2022
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income (loss)
$
349,172
$
27,840
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation, depletion and amortization
20,369
17,795
Loss (gain) on derivative instruments
4,371
107,746
Cash settlements (paid) received on expired derivative instruments
( 5,082 )
( 120,445 )
Cash settlements received (paid) on terminated derivative instruments
658
—
Deferred income tax expense (benefit)
( 264,130 )
—
Accretion of asset retirement obligations
5,922
5,242
Share-based compensation (see Note 10)
3,608
2,224
Settlement of asset retirement obligations
( 993 )
( 552 )
Amortization and write-off of deferred financing costs
1,679
469
Bad debt expense
98
1
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable
32,493
4,737
Prepaid expenses and other assets
( 3,844 )
( 1,579 )
Payables and accrued liabilities
( 28,459 )
3,526
Other
( 2,634 )
2,326
Net cash provided by operating activities
113,228
49,330
Cash flows from investing activities:
Additions to oil and gas properties
( 23,065 )
( 26,193 )
Additions to other property and equipment
( 501 )
( 7 )
Additions to restricted investments
( 6,399 )
( 5,353 )
Net cash used in investing activities
( 29,965 )
( 31,553 )
Cash flows from financing activities:
Advances on Revolving Credit Facility
125,000
5,000
Payments on Revolving Credit Facility
( 195,000 )
( 30,000 )
Deferred financing costs
( 4,698 )
( 86 )
Shares withheld for taxes
( 2,178 )
( 546 )
Net cash used in financing activities
( 76,876 )
( 25,632 )
Net change in cash and cash equivalents
6,387
( 7,855 )
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period
—
18,799
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period
$
6,387
$
10,944
See Accompanying Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
10
Table of Contents
AMPLIFY ENERGY CORP.
UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EQUITY (DEFICIT)
(In thousands)
Stockholders' Equity
Additional
Accumulated
Common
Paid-in
Earnings
Stock
Capital
(Deficit)
Total
Balance at December 31, 2022
$
386
$
432,251
$
( 437,202 )
$
( 4,565 )
Net income (loss)
—
—
352,759
352,759
Share-based compensation expense
—
941
—
941
Shares withheld for taxes
—
( 2,141 )
—
( 2,141 )
Other
5
( 5 )
—
—
Balance at March 31, 2023
391
431,046
( 84,443 )
346,994
Net income (loss)
—
—
9,816
9,816
Share-based compensation expense
—
1,340
—
1,340
Shares withheld for taxes
—
( 6 )
—
( 6 )
Balance at June 30, 2023
$
391
$
432,380
$
( 74,627 )
$
358,144
Net income (loss)
—
—
( 13,403 )
( 13,403 )
Share-based compensation expense
—
1,327
—
1,327
Shares withheld for taxes
—
( 31 )
—
( 31 )
Other
1
( 1 )
—
—
Balance at September 30, 2023
$
392
$
433,675
$
( 88,030 )
$
346,037
Stockholders' Equity (Deficit)
Additional
Accumulated
Common
Paid-in
Earnings
Stock
Warrants (1)
Capital
(Deficit)
Total
Balance at December 31, 2021
$
382
$
4,788
$
425,066
$
( 495,077 )
$
( 64,841 )
Net income (loss)
—
—
—
( 48,614 )
( 48,614 )
Share-based compensation expense
—
—
518
—
518
Shares withheld for taxes
—
—
( 66 )
—
( 66 )
Other
2
—
( 2 )
—
—
Balance at March 31, 2022
384
4,788
425,516
( 543,691 )
( 113,003 )
Net income (loss)
—
—
—
29,220
29,220
Share-based compensation expense
—
—
856
—
856
Shares withheld for taxes
—
—
( 464 )
—
( 464 )
Expiration of warrants
—
( 4,788 )
4,788
—
—
Other
1
—
( 1 )
—
—
Balance at June 30, 2022
$
385
$
—
$
430,695
$
( 514,471 )
$
( 83,391 )
Net income (loss)
—
—
—
47,234
47,234
Share-based compensation expense
—
—
850
—
850
Shares withheld for taxes
—
—
( 16 )
—
( 16 )
Other
1
—
( 1 )
—
—
Balance at September 30, 2022
$
386
$
—
$
431,528
$
( 467,237 )
$
( 35,323 )
(1) The warrants expired on May 4, 2022.
See Accompanying Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
11
Table of Contents
AMPLIFY ENERGY CORP.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 1. Organization and Basis of Presentation
General
Amplify Energy Corp. (“Amplify Energy,” “Amplify,” “it” or the “Company”) is a publicly traded Delaware corporation whose common stock is listed on the NYSE under the symbol “AMPY.”
The Company is engaged in the acquisition, development, exploitation and production of oil and natural gas properties located in Oklahoma, the Rockies, federal waters offshore Southern California, East Texas/North Louisiana and the Eagle Ford. The Company’s properties consist primarily of operated and non-operated working interests in producing and undeveloped leasehold acreage and working interests in identified producing wells.
Basis of Presentation
The Company’s accompanying Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly owned subsidiaries which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). In the Company’s opinion, the accompanying Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements include all adjustments of a normal recurring nature necessary for fair presentation. Material intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated.
The results reported in these Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements are not necessarily indicative of results that may be expected for the entire year. Furthermore, certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in annual financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP have been condensed or omitted pursuant to the rules and regulations of the SEC. Accordingly, the accompanying Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes should be read in conjunction with the Company’s annual financial statements included in its 2022 Form 10-K.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of the accompanying Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Significant estimates include, but are not limited to, oil and natural gas reserves; fair value estimates; revenue recognition; and contingencies and insurance accounting.
Note 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
There have been no changes to the Company’s significant accounting policies as described in the Company’s annual financial statements included in its 2022 Form 10-K.
New Accounting Pronouncements
The Company has implemented all new accounting pronouncements that are in effect. These pronouncements did not have any material impact on the financial statements unless otherwise disclosed, and the Company does not believe that there are any other new accounting pronouncements that have been issued that might have a material impact on its financial position or results of operations.
12
Table of Contents
AMPLIFY ENERGY CORP.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 3. Revenue
Revenue from Contracts with Customers
Revenue is recognized when the following five steps are completed: (1) identify the contract with the customer, (2) identify the performance obligation (promise) in the contract, (3) determine the transaction price, (4) allocate the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract, (5) recognize revenue when the reporting organization satisfies a performance obligation.
The Company has determined that its contracts for the sale of crude oil, unprocessed natural gas, residue gas and NGLs contain monthly performance obligations to deliver product at locations specified in the contract. Control is transferred at the delivery location, at which point the performance obligation has been satisfied and revenue is recognized. Fees included in the contract that are incurred prior to control transfer are classified as gathering, processing and transportation, and fees incurred after control transfers are included as a reduction to the transaction price. The transaction price at which revenue is recognized consists entirely of variable consideration based on quoted market prices less various fees and the quantity of volumes delivered.
Disaggregation of Revenue
The Company has identified three material revenue streams in its business: oil, natural gas and NGLs. The following table presents the Company’s revenues disaggregated by revenue stream.
For the Three Months Ended
For the Nine Months Ended
September 30,
September 30,
2023
2022
2023
2022
(In thousands)
Revenues
Oil
$
57,214
$
54,394
$
146,780
$
165,686
NGLs
7,777
11,704
21,973
38,789
Natural gas
11,412
46,714
41,327
115,087
Oil and natural gas sales
$
76,403
$
112,812
$
210,080
$
319,562
Contract Balances
Under the Company’s sales contracts, the Company invoices customers once its performance obligations have been satisfied, at which point payment is unconditional. Accordingly, the Company’s contracts do not give rise to contract assets or liabilities. Accounts receivable attributable to the Company’s revenue contracts with customers was $ 31.9 million at September 30, 2023 and $ 35.1 million at December 31, 2022.
Note 4. Fair Value Measurements of Financial Instruments
Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at a specified measurement date. Fair value estimates are based on either (i) actual market data or (ii) assumptions that other market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability, including estimates of risk. A three-tier hierarchy has been established that classifies fair value amounts recognized or disclosed in the financial statements. The hierarchy considers fair value amounts based on observable inputs (Levels 1 and 2) to be more reliable and predictable than those based primarily on unobservable inputs (Level 3). All the derivative instruments reflected on the accompanying Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets were considered Level 2.
13
Table of Contents
AMPLIFY ENERGY CORP.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The carrying values of accounts receivables, accounts payables (including accrued liabilities), restricted investments and amounts outstanding under long-term debt agreements with variable rates included in the accompanying Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets approximated fair value at September 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022. The fair value estimates are based upon observable market data and are classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. These assets and liabilities are not presented in the following tables.
Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
The fair market values of the derivative financial instruments reflected on the accompanying Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022 were based on estimated forward commodity prices. Financial assets and liabilities are classified based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. The significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement requires judgment and may affect the valuation of the fair value of assets and liabilities and their placement within the fair value hierarchy levels.
The following tables present the gross derivative assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis at September 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022 for each of the fair value hierarchy levels:
Fair Value Measurements at September 30, 2023
Significant
Quoted Prices in
Significant Other
Unobservable
Active Market
Observable Inputs
Inputs
(Level 1)
(Level 2)
(Level 3)
Fair Value
(In thousands)
Assets:
Commodity derivatives
$
—
$
21,729
$
—
$
21,729
Interest rate derivatives
—
—
—
—
Total assets
$
—
$
21,729
$
—
$
21,729
Liabilities:
Commodity derivatives
$
—
$
42,559
$
—
$
42,559
Interest rate derivatives
—
—
—
—
Total liabilities
$
—
$
42,559
$
—
$
42,559
Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2022
Significant
Quoted Prices in
Significant Other
Unobservable
Active Market
Observable Inputs
Inputs
(Level 1)
(Level 2)
(Level 3)
Fair Value
(In thousands)
Assets:
Commodity derivatives
$
—
$
6,257
$
—
$
6,257
Interest rate derivatives
—
—
—
—
Total assets
$
—
$
6,257
$
—
$
6,257
Liabilities:
Commodity derivatives
$
—
$
27,141
$
—
$
27,141
Interest rate derivatives
—
—
—
—
Total liabilities
$
—
$
27,141
$
—
$
27,141
See Note 5 for additional information regarding the Company’s derivative instruments.
14
Table of Contents
AMPLIFY ENERGY CORP.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis
Certain assets and liabilities are reported at fair value on a nonrecurring basis, as reflected on the accompanying Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. The following methods and assumptions are used to estimate the fair values:
● The fair value of asset retirement obligations (“AROs”) is based on discounted cash flow projections using numerous estimates, assumptions and judgments regarding factors such as the existence of a legal obligation for an ARO; amounts and timing of settlements; the credit-adjusted risk-free rate; and inflation rates. The initial fair value estimates are based on unobservable market data and are classified within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. See Note 6 for a summary of changes in AROs.
● Proved oil and natural gas properties are reviewed for impairment when events and circumstances indicate a possible decline in the recoverability of the carrying value of such properties. The Company uses an income approach based on the discounted cash flow method, whereby the present value of expected future net cash flows is discounted by applying an appropriate discount rate, for purposes of placing a fair value on the assets. The future cash flows are based on management’s estimates for the future. The unobservable inputs used to determine fair value include, but are not limited to, estimates of proved reserves, estimates of probable reserves, future commodity prices, the timing of future production and capital expenditures and a discount rate commensurate with the risk reflective of the lives remaining for the respective oil and natural gas properties (some of which are Level 3 inputs within the fair value hierarchy).
● No impairment expense was recorded on proved oil and natural gas properties during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022.
Note 5. Risk Management and Derivative Instruments
Derivative instruments are utilized to manage exposure to commodity price and interest rate fluctuations and to achieve a more predictable cash flow in connection with natural gas and oil sales and borrowing related activities. These instruments limit exposure to declines in prices but also limit the benefits that would be realized if prices increase.
Certain inherent business risks are associated with commodity derivative contracts, including market risk and credit risk. Market risk is the risk that the price of natural gas or oil will change, either favorably or unfavorably, in response to changing market conditions. Credit risk is the risk of loss from nonperformance by the counterparty to a contract. It is the Company’s policy to enter into derivative contracts only with creditworthy counterparties, which generally are financial institutions, deemed by management as competent and competitive market makers. Some of the lenders, or certain of their affiliates, under the Company’s current credit agreements are counterparties to its derivative contracts. While collateral is generally not required to be posted by counterparties, credit risk associated with derivative instruments is minimized by limiting exposure to any single counterparty and entering into derivative instruments only with creditworthy counterparties that are generally large financial institutions. Additionally, master netting agreements are used to mitigate risk of loss due to default with counterparties on derivative instruments. The Company has also entered into International Swaps and Derivatives Association Master Agreements (“ISDA Agreements”) with each of its counterparties. The terms of the ISDA Agreements provide the Company and each of its counterparties with rights of set-off upon the occurrence of defined acts of default by either the Company or its counterparty to a derivative, whereby the party not in default may set-off all liabilities owed to the defaulting party against all net derivative asset receivables from the defaulting party. See Note 7 for additional information regarding the Company’s Revolving Credit Facility.
Commodity Derivatives
The Company may use a combination of commodity derivatives (e.g., floating-for-fixed swaps, put options, costless collars and three-way collars) to manage exposure to commodity price volatility. The Company recognizes all derivative instruments at fair value.
15
Table of Contents
AMPLIFY ENERGY CORP.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The Company enters into natural gas derivative contracts that are indexed to NYMEX-Henry Hub. The Company also enters into oil derivative contracts indexed to NYMEX-WTI.
At September 30, 2023, the Company had the following open commodity positions:
2023
2024
2025
2026
Natural Gas Derivative Contracts:
Fixed price swap contracts:
Average monthly volume (MMBtu)
—
662,500
675,000
291,667
Weighted-average fixed price
$
—
$
3.72
$
3.74
$
3.72
Collar contracts:
Two-way collars
Average monthly volume (MMBtu)
1,336,000
627,083
500,000
291,667
Weighted-average floor price
$
3.35
$
3.43
$
3.50
$
3.50
Weighted-average ceiling price
$
5.22
$
4.32
$
4.10
$
4.10
Crude Oil Derivative Contracts:
Fixed price swap contracts:
Average monthly volume (Bbls)
113,333
61,333
53,000
30,917
Weighted-average fixed price
$
66.91
$
73.55
$
70.68
$
70.68
Collar contracts:
Two-way collars
Average monthly volume (Bbls)
15,000
102,000
59,500
—
Weighted-average floor price
$
65.00
$
70.00
$
70.00
$
—
Weighted-average ceiling price
$
76.16
$
80.20
$
80.20
$
—
Three-way collars
Average monthly volume (Bbls)
50,000
—
—
—
Weighted-average ceiling price
$
74.54
$
—
$
—
$
—
Weighted-average floor price
$
58.00
$
—
$
—
$
—
Weighted-average sub-floor price
$
43.00
$
—
$
—
$
—
Balance Sheet Presentation
The following table summarizes both: (i) the gross fair value of derivative instruments by the appropriate balance sheet classification even when the derivative instruments are subject to netting arrangements and qualify for net presentation in the balance sheet and (ii) the net recorded fair value as reflected on the balance sheet at September 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022. There was no cash collateral received or pledged associated with the Company’s derivative instruments since most of its counterparties, or certain of its affiliates, to its derivative contracts are lenders under its Revolving Credit Facility.
16
Table of Contents
AMPLIFY ENERGY CORP.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Asset
Liability
Asset
Liability
Derivatives
Derivatives
Derivatives
Derivatives
September 30,
September 30,
December 31,
December 31,
Type
Balance Sheet Location
2023
2023
2022
2022
(In thousands)
Commodity contracts
Short-term derivative instruments
$
9,745
$
22,741
$
6,257
$
27,141
Interest rate swaps
Short-term derivative instruments
—
—
—
—
Gross fair value
9,745
22,741
6,257
27,141
Netting arrangements
( 9,745 )
( 9,745 )
( 6,257 )
( 6,257 )
Net recorded fair value
Short-term derivative instruments
$
—
$
12,996
$
—
$
20,884
Commodity contracts
Long-term derivative instruments
$
11,984
$
19,818
$
—
$
—
Interest rate swaps
Long-term derivative instruments
—
—
—
—
Gross fair value
11,984
19,818
—
—
Netting arrangements
( 11,984 )
( 11,984 )
—
—
Net recorded fair value
Long-term derivative instruments
$
—
$
7,834
$
—
$
—
Loss (Gain) on Derivative Instruments
The Company does not designate derivative instruments as hedging instruments for accounting and financial reporting purposes. Accordingly, all gains and losses, including changes in the derivative instruments’ fair values, have been recorded in the accompanying Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations. The following table details the gains and losses related to derivative instruments for the periods indicated (in thousands):
For the Three Months Ended
For the Nine Months Ended
Statements of
September 30,
September 30,
Operations Location
2023
2022
2023
2022
Commodity derivative contracts
Loss (gain) on commodity derivatives
$
23,328
$
( 3,300 )
$
4,371
$
108,675
(Gain) loss on interest rate derivatives
Interest expense, net
—
( 87 )
—
( 930 )
Note 6. Asset Retirement Obligations
The Company’s asset retirement obligations primarily relate to the Company’s portion of future plugging and abandonment costs for wells and related facilities. The following table presents the changes in the asset retirement obligations for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 (in thousands):
Asset retirement obligations at beginning of period
$
116,438
Liabilities added from acquisition or drilling
5
Liabilities settled
( 993 )
Liabilities removed upon sale of wells
—
Accretion expense
5,922
Revision of estimates
190
Asset retirement obligation at end of period
121,562
Less: Current portion
1,706
Asset retirement obligations - long-term portion
$
119,856
17
Table of Contents
AMPLIFY ENERGY CORP.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 7. Long-Term Debt
The following table presents the Company’s consolidated debt obligations at the dates indicated:
September 30,
December 31,
2023
2022
(In thousands)
Revolving Credit Facility (1)
$
120,000
$
190,000
Total long-term debt
$
120,000
$
190,000
(1) The carrying amount of the Company’s Revolving Credit Facility approximates fair value because the interest rates are variable and reflective of market rates.
Amended and Restated Credit Agreement
On July 31, 2023, OLLC and Amplify Acquisitionco LLC (“Acquisitionco”), as the direct parent of OLLC and wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, amended and restated the Revolving Credit Facility with Keybanc Capital Markets Inc., Cadence Bank, N.A. and Citizens Bank, N.A. as joint lead arrangers and KeyBank National Association as the administrative agent (the “New Credit Facility”). The New Credit Facility is a replacement in full of the prior Revolving Credit Facility.
The aggregate principal amount of loans outstanding under the New Credit Facility as of September 30, 2023, was $ 120.0 million. The borrowing base under the facility is $ 150.0 million with elected commitments of $ 135.0 million, and, consistent with the prior Revolving Credit Facility, the New Credit Facility borrowing base will be redetermined on a semi-annual basis.
Certain key terms and conditions under the New Credit Facility include (but are not limited to):
● A maturity date of July 31, 2027;
● The loans shall bear interest at a rate per annum equal to (i) adjusted SOFR or (ii) an adjusted base rate, plus an applicable margin based on a utilization ratio of the lesser of the borrowing base and the aggregate commitments. The applicable margin ranges from 2.00 % to 3.00 % for adjusted base rate borrowings, and 3.00 % to 4.00 % for adjusted SOFR borrowings;
● The unused commitments under the New Credit Facility will accrue a commitment fee of 0.50 % , payable quarterly in arrears;
● Certain financial covenants, including the maintenance of (i) a net debt leverage ratio not to exceed 3.00 to 1.00, determined as of the last day of each fiscal quarter for the four fiscal-quarter period then ending and (ii) a current ratio of not less than 1.00 to 1.00 , determined as of the last day of each fiscal quarter, in each case commencing with the fiscal quarter ending December 31, 2023;
● Certain events of default, including, without limitation: non-payment; breaches of representations and warranties; non-compliance with covenants or other agreements; cross-default to material indebtedness; judgments; change of control; and voluntary and involuntary bankruptcy; and
● Initial minimum hedging requirements covering 75 % of the reasonably projected monthly production of hydrocarbons from proved developed producing reserves for the 24-month period following the effective date of the New Credit Facility (the “First Period”) and (ii) 50 % for the 12-month period immediately following the First Period.
As of September 30, 2023, the Company was in compliance with all the financial (current ratio and total leverage ratio) and non-financial covenants associated with its New Credit Facility.
18
Table of Contents
AMPLIFY ENERGY CORP.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
On October 19, 2023, the Company completed the fall 2023 borrowing base redetermination, which reaffirmed the borrowing base of $ 150.0 million with elected commitments of $ 135.0 million. The next redetermination is expected to occur in the second quarter of 2024.
Revolving Credit Facility
Prior to the New Credit Facility, OLLC had a reserve-based Revolving Credit Facility with a borrowing base of $ 180.0 million when such Revolving Credit Facility was replaced with the New Credit Facility. The Revolving Credit Facility was guaranteed by the Company and all of its current subsidiaries and would have matured on May 31, 2024 .
Weighted-Average Interest Rates
The following table presents the weighted-average interest rates paid, excluding commitment fees, on the Company’s consolidated variable-rate debt obligations for the periods presented:
For the Three Months Ended
For the Nine Months Ended
September 30,
September 30,
2023
2022
2023
2022
Revolving Credit Facility
9.39
%
5.91
%
9.34
%
4.73
%
Letters of Credit
At September 30, 2023, the Company had no letters of credit outstanding.
Unamortized Deferred Financing Costs
Unamortized deferred financing costs associated with the Company’s Revolving Credit Facility was $ 4.5 million at September 30, 2023. For the nine months ended September 30, 2023, the Company wrote off $ 1.0 million of deferred financing costs in connection with the refinancing of the Revolving Credit Facility.
Note 8. Equity
Common Stock
The Company’s authorized capital stock includes 250,000,000 shares of common stock, $ 0.01 par value per share. The following is a summary of the changes in the Company’s common stock issued for the nine months ended September 30, 2023:
Common Stock
Balance, December 31, 2022
38,459,731
Issuance of common stock
—
Restricted stock units vested
845,519
Shares withheld for taxes (1)
( 242,394 )
Balance, September 30, 2023
39,062,856
(1) Represents the net settlement on vesting of restricted stock to satisfy tax withholding requirements.
19
Table of Contents
AMPLIFY ENERGY CORP.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 9. Earnings per Share
The following sets forth the calculation of earnings (loss) per share, or EPS, for the periods indicated (in thousands, except per share amounts):
For the Three Months Ended
For the Nine Months Ended
September 30,
September 30,
2023
2022
2023
2022
Net income (loss)
$
( 13,403 )
$
47,234
$
349,172
$
27,840
Less: Net income allocated to participating securities
—
2,272
15,771
1,310
Basic and diluted earnings available to common stockholders
$
( 13,403 )
$
44,962
$
333,401
$
26,530
Common shares:
Common shares outstanding — basic
39,063
38,441
38,911
38,318
Dilutive effect of potential common shares
—
—
—
—
Common shares outstanding — diluted
39,063
38,441
38,911
38,318
Net earnings (loss) per share:
Basic
$
( 0.34 )
$
1.17
$
8.57
$
0.69
Diluted
$
( 0.34 )
$
1.17
$
8.57
$
0.69
Note 10. Long-Term Incentive Plans
In May 2021, the shareholders approved a new Equity Incentive Plan (“EIP”) in which the Legacy Amplify Management Incentive Plan (the “Legacy Amplify MIP”) was replaced by the EIP and no further awards will be granted under the Legacy Amplify MIP. As of September 30, 2023, an aggregate of 831,546 shares were available for future grants under the EIP.
Restricted Stock Units
Restricted Stock Units with Service Vesting Condition
The restricted stock units with service vesting conditions (“TSUs”) are accounted for as equity-classified awards. The grant-date fair value is recognized as compensation cost on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period and forfeitures are accounted for as they occur. Compensation costs are recorded as general and administrative expense. The unrecognized cost associated with the TSUs was $ 5.7 million at September 30, 2023. The Company expects to recognize the unrecognized compensation cost for these awards over a weighted-average period of approximately 2.1 years.
20
Table of Contents
AMPLIFY ENERGY CORP.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The following table summarizes information regarding the TSUs granted under the EIP for the period presented:
Weighted-
Average Grant-
Number of
Date Fair Value
Units
per Unit (1)
TSUs outstanding at December 31, 2022
1,502,556
$
3.82
Granted (2)
682,680
$
8.14
Forfeited
( 72,095 )
$
6.05
Vested
( 690,839 )
$
4.00
TSUs outstanding at September 30, 2023
1,422,302
$
5.69
(1) Determined by dividing the aggregate grant-date fair value of awards by the number of awards issued.
(2) The aggregate grant-date fair value of TSUs issued for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 was $ 5.6 million based on a grant-date market price ranging from $ 6.52 to $ 8.91 per share.
Restricted Stock Units with Market and Service Vesting Conditions
The restricted stock units with market and service vesting conditions (“PSUs” or “PRSUs”) are accounted for as equity-classified awards. The grant-date fair value is recognized as compensation cost on a graded-vesting basis. The fair value of the awards is estimated on their grant dates using a Monte Carlo simulation . The Company recognizes compensation cost over the requisite service or performance period. The Company accounts for forfeitures as they occur. Compensation costs are recorded as general and administrative expense. The unrecognized cost associated with these awards was $ 2.6 million at September 30, 2023. The Company expects to recognize the unrecognized compensation cost for these awards over a weighted-average period of approximately 2.2 years.
2020 PSU Awards
The 2020 PSU awards vested based on the satisfaction of service and market vesting conditions, and the market vesting was based on the Company’s achievement of certain share price targets. The PSUs were subject to service-based vesting such that 50 % of the PSUs service vested on the applicable market vesting date and an additional 25 % of the PSUs service vested on each of the first and second anniversaries of the applicable market vesting date.
2021 PRSU Awards
The 2021 PRSU awards were issued collectively in separate tranches with individual performances periods beginning on January 1, 2021. For each of the performance periods, the awards will vest based on the percentage of the target PRSUs subject to the performance vesting condition, with 25 % able to vest during the performance period of January 1, 2021 through December 31, 2021; 25 % able to vest during the period January 1, 2021 through December 31, 2022 and 50 % able to vest during the period of January 1, 2021 through December 31, 2023. Vesting of PRSUs can range from zero to 200 % of the target units granted based on the Company’s relative total shareholder return as compared to the total shareholder return of the Company’s performance peer group over the applicable performance period.
2022 and 2023 PRSU Awards
The 2022 and 2023 PRSU awards were issued with a three-year vesting period beginning on the grant date and ending on the third anniversary of the grant date. The three-year performance period for the 2022 awards is January 1, 2022 through December 31, 2024. The three-year performance period for the 2023 awards is January 1, 2023 through December 31, 2025. Vesting of PRSUs can range from zero to 200 % of the target units granted based on the Company’s relative total shareholder return as compared to the total shareholder return of the Company’s performance peer group over the applicable performance period.
21
Table of Contents
AMPLIFY ENERGY CORP.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The below table reflects the ranges for the assumptions used in the Monte Carlo model for the 2023 PRSUs awards:
February 2023
April 2023
Expected volatility
119.2
%
92.5
%
Dividend yield
0.00
%
0.00
%
Risk-free interest rate
3.74
%
3.78
%
The following table summarizes information regarding the PSUs and PRSUs granted under the EIP for the period presented:
Weighted-
Average Grant-
Number of
Date Fair Value
Units
per Unit (1)
PSUs and PRSUs outstanding at December 31, 2022
380,512
$
4.28
Granted (2)
321,436
$
10.59
Forfeited
( 144,567 )
$
6.55
Vested
( 154,680 )
$
2.20
PSUs and PRSUs outstanding at September 30, 2023
402,701
$
9.31
(1) Determined by dividing the aggregate grant-date fair value of awards by the number of awards issued.
(2) The aggregate grant-date fair value of PRSUs issued for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 was $ 3.4 million based on a calculated fair value price ranging from $ 1.27 to $ 15.04 per share.
Compensation Expense
The following table summarizes the amount of recognized compensation expense associated with the EIP, which are reflected in the accompanying Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the periods presented (in thousands):
For the Three Months Ended
For the Nine Months Ended
September 30,
September 30,
2023
2022
2023
2022
Equity classified awards
TSUs
1,027
718
2,965
2,000
PSUs and PRSUs
300
132
643
349
Board RSUs
—
—
—
5
$
1,327
$
850
$
3,608
$
2,354
Note 11. Leases
The Company has leases for office space and equipment in its corporate office and operating regions as well as warehouse space, vehicles, compressors and surface rentals related to its business operations. In addition, the Company has offshore Southern California pipeline right-of-way use agreements. Most of the Company’s leases, other than its corporate office lease, have an initial term and may be extended on a month-to-month basis after expiration of the initial term. Most of the Company’s leases can be terminated with 30-day prior written notice. The majority of its month-to-month leases are not included as a lease liability in its balance sheet because continuation of the lease is not reasonably certain. Additionally, the Company elected the short-term practical expedient to exclude leases with a term of twelve months or less. For the quarter ended September 30, 2023, all of the Company’s leases qualified as operating leases and it did not have any existing or new leases qualifying as financing leases or variable leases.
22
Table of Contents
AMPLIFY ENERGY CORP.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The Company’s corporate office lease does not provide an implicit rate. To determine the present value of the lease payments, the Company uses its incremental borrowing rate based on the information available at the inception date. To determine the incremental borrowing rate, the Company applies a portfolio approach based on the applicable lease terms and the current economic environment. The Company uses a reasonable market interest rate for its office equipment and vehicle leases.
For the nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, the Company recognized approximately $ 1.6 million and $ 1.1 million, respectively, of costs relating to the operating leases in the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations.
Supplemental cash flow information related to the Company’s lease liabilities is included in the table below:
For the Nine Months Ended
September 30,
2023
2022
(In thousands)
Non-cash amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:
Operating cash flows from operating leases
$
1,352
$
4,118
The following table presents the Company’s right-of-use assets and lease liabilities for the period presented:
September 30,
December 31,
2023
2022
(In thousands)
Right-of-use asset
$
6,025
$
7,376
Lease liabilities:
Current lease liability
1,599
1,401
Long-term lease liability
5,414
6,567
Total lease liability
$
7,013
$
7,968
The following table reflects the Company’s maturity analysis of the minimum lease payment obligations under non-cancelable operating leases with a remaining term in excess of one year (in thousands):
Office and
Leased vehicles
warehouse
and office
leases
equipment
Total
2023
$
349
$
223
$
572
2024
1,396
702
2,098
2025
1,396
490
1,886
2026
1,177
16
1,193
2027 and thereafter
2,553
—
2,553
Total lease payments
6,871
1,431
8,302
Less: interest
1,185
104
1,289
Present value of lease liabilities
$
5,686
$
1,327
$
7,013
23
Table of Contents
AMPLIFY ENERGY CORP.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The weighted average remaining lease terms and discount rate for all of the Company’s operating leases for the period presented:
September 30,
2023
2022
Weighted average remaining lease term (years):
Office and warehouse space
4.42
5.38
Vehicles
0.36
0.24
Office equipment
0.02
0.05
Weighted average discount rate:
Office leases
5.16
%
5.31
%
Vehicles
1.19
%
0.58
%
Office equipment
0.09
%
0.13
%
Note 12. Supplemental Disclosures to the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets and Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Accrued Liabilities
Current accrued liabilities consisted of the following at the dates indicated (in thousands):
September 30,
December 31,
2023
2022
Accrued liability - pipeline incident
$
8,862
$
20,832
Accrued lease operating expense
12,347
11,226
Accrued current income taxes
7,115
—
Accrued liability - current portion of pipeline incident settlement
2,000
4,888
Accrued capital expenditures
7,113
2,714
Accrued general and administrative expense
5,550
4,943
Accrued production and ad valorem tax
4,488
4,675
Accrued commitment fee and other expense
2,684
5,824
Operating lease liability
1,599
1,401
Asset retirement obligations
1,706
1,824
Accrued interest payable
1,884
87
Other
6
35
Accrued liabilities
$
55,354
$
58,449
24
Table of Contents
AMPLIFY ENERGY CORP.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Accounts Receivable
Accounts receivable consisted of the following at the dates indicated (in thousands):
September 30,
December 31,
2023
2022
Oil and natural gas receivables
$
31,904
$
35,083
Insurance receivable - pipeline incident
12,912
41,961
Joint interest owners and other
4,696
5,047
Total accounts receivable
49,512
82,091
Less: allowance for doubtful accounts
( 1,648 )
( 1,636 )
Total accounts receivable, net
$
47,864
$
80,455
Supplemental Cash Flows
Supplemental cash flows for the periods presented (in thousands):
For the Nine Months Ended
September 30,
2023
2022
Supplemental cash flows:
Cash paid for interest, net of amounts capitalized
$
8,142
$
7,597
Cash paid for taxes
5,725
35
Noncash investing and financing activities:
Increase (decrease) in capital expenditures in payables and accrued liabilities
5,880
4,606
Note 13. Related Party Transactions
Related Party Agreements
There have been no transactions between the Company and any related person in which the related person had a direct or indirect material interest for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022.
Note 14. Commitments and Contingencies
Litigation and Environmental
As part of our normal business activities, we may be named as defendants in litigation and legal proceedings, including those arising from regulatory and environmental matters.
Although the Company is insured against various risks to the extent it believes it is prudent, there is no assurance that the nature and amount of such insurance will be adequate, in every case, to indemnify it against liabilities arising from future legal proceedings.
At September 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, the Company had no environmental reserves recorded in its Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet.
25
Table of Contents
AMPLIFY ENERGY CORP.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Southern California Pipeline Incident
On August 25, 2022, the Company reached an agreement in principle with plaintiffs in a putative class action pending in the United States District Court for the Central District of California to resolve all civil claims against the Company and its subsidiaries related to the Incident. The settlement of $ 50.0 million, which also includes certain injunctive relief, will be funded under the Company’s insurance policies. The Court preliminarily approved the settlement on December 7, 2022 and granted final approval on April 24, 2023.
On August 26, 2022, the Company reached an agreement with the United States government, which the court has approved, to resolve all federal criminal matters involving the Company and its subsidiaries stemming from Incident. As part of the resolution with the United States, the Company agreed to plead guilty to one count of misdemeanor negligent discharge of oil in violation of the Clean Water Act. The Company will pay a fine of approximately $ 7.1 million in installments over a period of three years , serve a term of four years ’ probation and reimburse governmental agencies approximately $ 5.8 million for their response to this event. The Company also has agreed to implement certain compliance measures including installation of a new leak detection system and increased Remote Operated Vehicle inspections of the pipeline. As of September 30, 2023, the Company recorded $ 2.0 million in “Accrued liability – pipeline incident” and $ 1.1 million in “Other long-term liabilities” for the remaining payments related to this settlement on its Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet.
On September 8, 2022, the Company reached an agreement with the state of California to resolve all related state criminal matters. As part of the resolution with the state of California, which also has court approval, the Company agreed to enter a plea of No Contest to six misdemeanor charges. The Company will pay a fine in the amount of $ 4.9 million to be distributed among the state of California, including the State’s Fish and Game Preservation Fund, and Orange County. The Company also will serve a one-year term of probation and has agreed to certain compliance enhancements to its operations.
On March 1, 2023, the Company announced that the vessels that struck and damaged the pipeline and their respective owners and operators agreed to pay the Company $ 96.5 million in a settlement. The Marine Exchange of Los Angeles-Long Beach Harbor (the “Marine Exchange”) agreed to non-monetary terms as well. The overall resolution included subrogation claims by Amplify’s property damage and loss of production income (“LOPI”) insurers, with Amplify ultimately receiving a net payment of approximately $ 85.0 million. The settlement resolved Amplify’s affirmative claims related to the Incident. As part of the settlement, Amplify dismissed its legal claims against those parties.
The Company is also participating in a related claims process organized under the Oil Pollution Act of 1990, 33 U.S.C. § 2701 et seq. (“OPA 90”). Under OPA 90, a party alleged to be responsible for a discharge of oil is required to establish a claims process to pay for interim costs and damages as a result of the discharge. The OPA 90 claims process remains ongoing.
Future litigation may be necessary, among other things, to defend the Company by determining the scope, enforceability, and validity of claims. The results of any current or future litigation cannot be predicted with certainty, and regardless of the outcome, litigation can have an adverse impact on the Company because of defense and settlement costs, diversion of management resources, and other factors.
For further information regarding the Incident, please see Note 16.
Minimum Volume Commitment
The Company was party to a gas purchase, gathering and processing contract in Oklahoma, which included certain minimum NGL commitments. To the extent the Company did not deliver natural gas volumes in sufficient quantities to generate, when processed, the minimum levels of recovered NGLs, it was required to reimburse the counterparty an amount equal to the sum of the monthly shortfall, if any, multiplied by a fee. The commitment fee expense for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022 was approximately $ 0.3 million and $ 1.5 million, respectively. The minimum volume commitment for the Oklahoma properties ended on June 30, 2023.
26
Table of Contents
AMPLIFY ENERGY CORP.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Sinking Fund Trust Agreement
Beta Operating Company, LLC (“Beta”), a wholly owned subsidiary, assumed an obligation with a third party to make payments into a sinking fund in connection with its 2009 acquisition of the Company properties in federal waters offshore Southern California, the purpose of which is to provide funds adequate to decommission the portion of the San Pedro Bay Pipeline that lies within state waters and the surface facilities. Under the terms of the agreement, the operator of the properties is obligated to make monthly deposits into the sinking fund account in an amount equal to $ 0.25 per barrel of oil and other liquid hydrocarbon produced from the acquired working interest. Interest earned in the account stays in the account. The obligation to fund ceases when the aggregate value of the account reaches $ 4.3 million. As of September 30, 2023, the account balance included in restricted investments was approximately $ 4.4 million.
Supplemental Bond for Decommissioning Liabilities Trust Agreement
Beta has a decommissioning obligation with BOEM in connection with its 2009 acquisition of the Company’s properties in federal waters offshore Southern California. The Company supports its decommissioning obligation with $ 161.3 million of A-rated surety bonds.
In December 2021, the Company entered into two escrow funding agreements with its surety providers to fund interest-bearing escrow accounts on a quarterly basis to reimburse and indemnify the surety providers for any claims arising under the surety bonds related to the decommissioning of our Beta properties. The obligation ceases when the aggregate value of the escrow accounts reaches $ 172.6 million. As of September 30, 2023, the Company has funded $ 13.0 million into the escrow accounts which is reflected in “Restricted investments” on the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet.
Note 15. Income Taxes
Net deferred tax assets relate to net operating loss carryforwards, interest expense carryforwards, tax credits, and other temporary differences expected to produce tax deductions in future periods. The realization of these assets depends on recognition of sufficient future taxable income in specific federal and state tax jurisdictions in which those temporary differences are deductible. In assessing the need for a valuation allowance on its deferred tax assets, the Company considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion of or all its deferred tax assets will not be realized. On December 31, 2022, the Company valuation allowance was $ 284.9 million, which offset all net deferred tax assets as of such date.
As of each reporting date, management considers new evidence, both positive and negative, that could affect its view of the future realization of deferred tax assets. The assessment considers all available information including historical and forecasted taxable income and operating history. The three months ended March 31, 2023 marked the first time that the Company had achieved three years of cumulative book income. Furthermore, management determined that the Company’s ability to maintain long-term profitability despite near-term changes in commodity prices and capital and operating costs demonstrated that there is sufficient positive evidence to conclude that it is more likely than not that all net deferred tax asset is realizable. As a result of the Company’s assessment, the Company released substantially all of its valuation allowance previously recorded. The result of the valuation allowance release for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 was a tax benefit of $ 278.8 million.
The Company’s current income tax (expense) benefit was ($ 1.4 ) million and ($ 7.1 ) million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, respectively. No current income tax expense was recorded for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2022. The Company’s deferred income tax benefit (expense) was $ 4.7 million and $ 264.1 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, respectively. No deferred income tax benefit was recorded for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2022. The effective tax rates for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023 were 19.6 % and ( 278.9 %), respectively. The effective tax rate was 0 % for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2022. The item that had the most significant impact on the difference between the statutory U.S. federal income tax rate of 21 % and the effective tax rate for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023 was the release of the valuation allowance. The items that had the most significant impact on the difference between the statutory U.S. federal income tax rate of 21 % and the effective tax rate for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2022, was primarily due to our recorded valuation allowances.
27
Table of Contents
AMPLIFY ENERGY CORP.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 16. Southern California Pipeline Incident
On October 2, 2021, contractors operating under the direction of Beta Operating Company, LLC, a subsidiary of the Company, observed an oil sheen on the water approximately four miles off the coast of Newport Beach, California (the “Incident”). Beta platform personnel were notified and promptly initiated the Company’s Oil Spill Response Plan, which was reviewed and approved by the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement’s (the “BSEE”) Oil Spill Preparedness Division within the United States Department of the Interior, and which included the required notifications of specified regulatory agencies. On October 3, 2021, a Unified Command, consisting of the Company, the U.S. Coast Guard and California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Office of Spill Prevention and Response, was established to respond to the Incident.
On October 5, 2021, the Unified Command announced that reports from its contracted commercial divers and Remotely Operated Vehicle footage indicated that a 4,000 -foot section of the Company’s pipeline had been displaced with a maximum lateral movement of approximately 105 feet and that the pipeline had a 13 -inch split, running parallel to the pipe. On October 14, 2021, the U.S. Coast Guard announced that it had a high degree of confidence the size of the release was approximately 588 barrels of oil, which was below the previously reported maximum estimate of 3,134 barrels. On October 16, 2021, the U.S. Coast Guard announced that it had identified the Mediterranean Shipping Company (DANIT) as a “vessel of interest” and its owner Dordellas Finance Corporation and operator Mediterranean Shipping Company, S.A. as parties in interest in connection with an anchor-dragging incident, in January 2021 (the “Anchor Dragging Incident”), which occurred in close proximity to the Company’s pipeline, and that additional vessels of interest continued to be investigated. On November 19, 2021, the U.S. Coast Guard announced that it had identified the COSCO (Beijing) as another vessel involved in the Anchor Dragging Incident and named its owner Capetanissa Maritime Corporation of Liberia and its operator V.Ships Greece Ltd. as parties in interest. The cause, timing and details regarding the Incident remain under investigation.
At the height of the Incident response, the Company deployed over 1,800 personnel working under the guidance and at the direction of the Unified Command to aid in cleanup operations. As of October 14, 2021, all beaches that had been closed following the Incident have reopened. On February 2, 2022, the Unified Command announced that response and monitoring efforts have officially concluded for the Incident, and Unified Command would stand down as of such date. Amplify is grateful to its Unified Command partners for their collaboration and professionalism over the course of the response.
In response to the Incident, all operations were suspended and the pipeline was shut-in pending the Company’s receipt of the required regulatory approvals to restart operations. On October 4, 2021, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (“PHMSA”), Office of Pipeline Safety issued a Corrective Action Order pursuant to 49 U.S.C. § 60112, which makes clear that no restart of the affected pipeline may occur until PHMSA has approved a written restart plan. On April 10, 2023, the Company announced that it has received the required approvals from federal regulatory agencies to restart operations at the Beta Field. The pipeline will be operated in accordance with the restart procedures that were reviewed and approved by PHMSA.
On December 15, 2021, a federal grand jury in the Central District of California returned a federal criminal indictment against Amplify Energy Corp., Beta Operating Company, LLC, and San Pedro Bay Pipeline Company in connection with the Incident. The indictment alleges that the Company committed a misdemeanor violation of the federal Clean Water Act for negligently discharging oil into the contiguous zone of the United States. As previously disclosed, state authorities were conducting parallel criminal investigations. The Company has reached court-approved agreements to resolve all criminal matters stemming from the Incident. Specifically, on August 26, 2022, as part of the resolution with the United States, the Company agreed to plead guilty to one count of misdemeanor negligent discharge of oil in violation of the Clean Water Act. The Company will pay a fine of approximately $ 7.1 million in installments over a period of three years , serve a term of four years ’ probation and reimburse governmental agencies approximately $ 5.8 million for their response to this event. Further, on September 8, 2022, as part of the resolution with the state of California, the Company agreed to enter a plea of No Contest to six misdemeanor charges. The Company paid a fine in the amount of $ 4.9 million to be distributed among the state of California, including the State’s Fish and Game Preservation Fund, and Orange County. The Company will serve a one-year term of probation and has agreed to certain compliance enhancements to its operations.
28
Table of Contents
AMPLIFY ENERGY CORP.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The Company is currently subject to a number of ongoing investigations related to the Incident by certain federal and state agencies. To date, the U.S. Coast Guard, the U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, the U.S. Department of Justice, PHMSA, the U.S. Department of the Interior Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement, the National Transportation Safety Board, the California Department of Justice, the Orange County District Attorney, the Los Angeles County District Attorney, and the California Department of Fish & Wildlife have conducted or are conducting investigations or examinations of the Incident. On April 8, 2022, in light of the allegations raised in the December 15, 2021 federal indictment, the Company received a Show Cause Notice from the EPA asking the Company to provide information as to why it should not be suspended from participating in future federal contracting pursuant to 2 C.F.R. § 180.700(a), (c) and 2 C.F.R. § 180.800(a)(4). On April 22, 2022, the Company responded to the Show Cause Notice. On September 9, 2022, the EPA informed the Company’s counsel that the EPA has administratively closed the case at this time, and as such, the Company is no longer under a Show Cause Notice. On April 6, 2023, PHMSA provided the Company notice of PHMSA’s positions regarding “probable violations of the Pipeline Safety Regulations” in connection with the Incident; the Company has responded to that notice with the Company’s positions and is conferring with PHMSA regarding a resolution. Other federal agencies may or have commenced investigations and proceedings, and may initiate enforcement actions seeking penalties and other relief under the Clean Water Act and other statutes. Amplify continues to comply with all regulatory requirements and investigations. The outcomes of these investigations and the nature of any remedies pursued will depend on the discretion of the relevant authorities and may result in regulatory or other enforcement actions, as well as civil liability.
The Company, Beta Operating Company, LLC, and San Pedro Bay Pipeline Company were named as defendants in a consolidated putative class action in the United States District Court for the Central District of California. Plaintiffs filed a consolidated class action complaint on January 28, 2022 and an amended complaint on March 21, 2022. Plaintiffs asserted claims against the Company, Beta Operating Company, LLC, San Pedro Bay Pipeline Company, MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company, Dordellas Finance Corp., the MSC Danit (proceeding in rem), Costamare Shipping Co. S.A., Capetanissa Maritime Corporation of Liberia, V.Ships Greece Ltd., and the COSCO Beijing (proceeding in rem). The Company filed a third-party complaint on February 28, 2022, an amended complaint on June 21, 2022, and second amended complaint on October 5, 2022. The Company sued the same shipping defendants as had Plaintiffs and added claims against the Marine Exchange, COSCO Shipping Lines Co. Ltd., COSCO (Cayman) Mercury Co. Ltd., Mediterranean Shipping Company S.r.l., and MSC Shipmanagement Limited.
MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company, Dordellas Finance Corp., and Capetanissa Maritime Corporation of Liberia also filed petitions for limitations of liability under maritime law in the United States District Court for the Central District of California. The court consolidated the limitation actions into a single limitation action and also coordinated discovery between the consolidated limitation and the consolidated class actions. On April 17, 2023, the Court stayed the Limitation Action pending the documentation and approval of certain settlements that are expected to fully resolve the Limitation Action.
On August 25, 2022, the Company reached an agreement in principle with plaintiffs in the class action to resolve all civil claims against it and its subsidiaries. The settlement of $ 50.0 million, which also includes certain injunctive relief, will be funded under the Company’s insurance policies. The Court preliminarily approved the settlement on December 7, 2022 and granted final approval on April 24, 2023.
On March 1, 2023, the Company announced that the vessels that struck and damaged the pipeline and their respective owners and operators agreed to pay the Company $ 96.5 million in a settlement. The Marine Exchange agreed to non-monetary terms as well. The overall resolution included subrogation claims by Amplify’s property damage and LOPI insures, with Amplify ultimately receiving a net payment of approximately $ 85.0 million. The settlement resolved Amplify’s affirmative claims related to the Incident. As part of the settlement, Amplify dismissed its legal claims against those parties.
29
Table of Contents
AMPLIFY ENERGY CORP.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Under the OPA 90, the Company’s pipeline was designated by the U.S. Coast Guard as the source of the oil discharge and therefore the Company is financially responsible for remediation and for certain costs and economic damages as provided for in OPA 90, as well as certain natural resource damages associated with the spill and certain costs determined by federal and state trustees engaged in a joint assessment of such natural resource damages. The Company is currently processing covered claims under OPA 90 as expeditiously as possible. In addition, the Natural Resource Damage Assessment remains ongoing and therefore the extent, timing and cost related to such assessment are difficult to project. While the Company anticipates insurance will reimburse it for expenses related to the Natural Resource Damage Assessment, any potentially uncovered expenses may be material and could impact the Company’s business and results of operations and could put pressure on its liquidity position going forward.
Based on presently enacted laws and regulations and currently available facts, the Company estimates that the total costs it has incurred or will incur with respect to the Incident to be approximately $ 190.0 million to $ 210.0 million, which includes (i) actual and projected response and remediation under the direction of the Unified Command, (ii) fines and penalties of $ 12.0 million resulting from the resolution of the federal and state of California matters discussed above, and (iii) certain legal fees.
The range of total costs is based on the Company’s assumptions regarding (i) settlement of costs associated with certain vendors for response and remediation expenses, (ii) resolution of certain third-party claims, excluding claims with respect to losses, which are not probable or reasonably estimable, and (iii) future claims and lawsuits. While the Company believes it has accurately reflected all probable and reasonably estimable costs incurred in the Company’s Unaudited Consolidated Statements of Operations, these estimates are subject to uncertainties associated with the underlying assumptions. For example, settlements with vendors for response and remediation expenses may be significantly higher or lower than the Company has currently estimated. Accordingly, as the Company’s assumptions and estimates may change in future periods based on future events, the Company can provide no assurance that total costs will not materially change in future periods.
The Company’s estimates do not include (i) the nature, extent and cost of future legal services that will be required in connection with all lawsuits, claims and other matters requiring legal or expert advice associated with the Incident, (ii) any lost revenue associated with the suspension of operations at Beta, (iii) any liabilities or costs, including regulatory costs, that are not reasonably estimable at this time or that relate to contingencies where the Company currently regards the likelihood of loss as being only reasonably possible or remote and (iv) the costs associated with the permanent repair of the pipeline and the restart of operations at Beta.
In accordance with customary insurance practice, the Company maintains insurance policies, including LOPI insurance, against many potential losses or liabilities arising from its operations and at costs that the Company believes to be economic. The Company regularly reviews its risk of loss and the cost and availability of insurance and revises its insurance accordingly. The Company’s insurance does not cover every potential risk associated with its operations and is subject to certain exclusions and deductibles. While the Company expects its insurance policies will cover a material portion of the total aggregate costs associated with the Incident, including but not limited to response and remediation expenses, defense costs and loss of revenue resulting from suspended operations, it can provide no assurance that its coverage will adequately protect it against liability from all potential consequences, damages and losses related to the Incident and such view and understanding is preliminary and subject to change.
On September 30, 2023, and December 31, 2022, the Company’s insurance receivables were $ 12.9 million and $ 42.0 million, respectively. Excluding the costs associated with the resolution of the federal and state matters discussed above, for the nine months ended September 30, 2023, the Company incurred response and remediation expenses and legal fees of $ 26.7 million. Of these costs, the Company has received, or expects that it is probable that it will receive, $ 11.1 million in insurance recoveries. The remaining amount of $ 15.6 million, which primarily relates to certain legal costs that are not expected to be recovered under an insurance policy, are classified as “Pipeline Incident Loss” on the Company’s Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations. For the nine months ended September 30, 2023, the Company received $ 40.1 million in insurance recoveries.
Additionally, during the nine months ended September 30, 2023, the Company recognized $ 17.9 million related to approved LOPI insurance proceeds, which is classified as “Other Revenues” in the Company’s Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations.
30
Table of Contents
AMPLIFY ENERGY CORP.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 17. Subsequent Events
Borrowing Base Redetermination
See Note 7 for additional information relating to the Company’s borrowing base redetermination.
31
Table of Contents