Biggest changeCost reimbursements due to our general partner and Westlake for services provided to us or on our behalf reduce our earnings and therefore our cash available for distribution to our unitholders. The amount and timing of such reimbursements are determined by our general partner.
Biggest changeFor example, so long as Westlake is not in default under the Ethylene Sales Agreement, Westlake has the right to purchase 95% of OpCo's production in excess of planned capacity. 12 Table of Contents We are obligated to reimburse our general partner and Westlake for services provided to us or on our behalf, which may reduce our earnings and therefore our cash available for distribution to our unitholders.
Westlake's obligations under the Ethylene Sales Agreement, the Feedstock Supply Agreement and the related Services and Secondment Agreement continue in effect until December 31, 2026, after which such agreements will extend on an annual basis unless and until terminated by either party upon at least 12 months' prior written notice.
Westlake's obligations under the Ethylene Sales Agreement, the Feedstock Supply Agreement and the related Services and Secondment Agreement continue in effect until December 31, 2026, after which such agreements extend on an annual basis unless and until terminated by either party upon at least 12 months' prior written notice.
These conflicts include the following situations, among others: • our general partner is allowed to take into account the interests of parties other than us, such as Westlake, in exercising certain rights under our partnership agreement; • neither our partnership agreement nor any other agreement requires Westlake to pursue a business strategy that favors us; • our partnership agreement replaces the fiduciary duties that would otherwise be owed by our general partner with contractual standards governing its duties, limits our general partner's liabilities and restricts the remedies available to our unitholders for actions that, without such limitations, might constitute breaches of fiduciary duty; 19 Table of Contents • except in limited circumstances, our general partner has the power and authority to conduct our business without unitholder approval; • our general partner determines the amount and timing of asset purchases and sales, borrowings, issuances of additional partnership securities and the level of reserves, each of which can affect the amount of cash that is distributed to our unitholders; • our general partner determines the amount and timing of any cash expenditure and whether an expenditure is classified as a maintenance capital expenditure, which reduces operating surplus, or an expansion capital expenditure, which does not reduce operating surplus.
These conflicts include the following situations, among others: • our general partner is allowed to take into account the interests of parties other than us, such as Westlake, in exercising certain rights under our partnership agreement; • neither our partnership agreement nor any other agreement requires Westlake to pursue a business strategy that favors us; • our partnership agreement replaces the fiduciary duties that would otherwise be owed by our general partner with contractual standards governing its duties, limits our general partner's liabilities and restricts the remedies available to our unitholders for actions that, without such limitations, might constitute breaches of fiduciary duty; • except in limited circumstances, our general partner has the power and authority to conduct our business without unitholder approval; • our general partner determines the amount and timing of asset purchases and sales, borrowings, issuances of additional partnership securities and the level of reserves, each of which can affect the amount of cash that is distributed to our unitholders; • our general partner determines the amount and timing of any cash expenditure and whether an expenditure is classified as a maintenance capital expenditure, which reduces operating surplus, or an expansion capital expenditure, which does not reduce operating surplus.
If our general partner exercised its limited call right, the effect would be to take us private and, if the units were subsequently deregistered, we would no longer be subject to the reporting requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or the Exchange Act.
If our general partner exercised its limited call right, the effect would be to take us private and, if the units were subsequently deregistered, we would no longer be subject to the reporting requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act").
The issuance of additional common units or other equity interests of equal or senior rank will have the following effects: • our existing unitholders' proportionate ownership interest in us will decrease; • the amount of earnings per each unit may decrease; • the ratio of taxable income to distributions may increase; • the relative voting strength of each previously outstanding unit may be diminished; and • the market price of the common units may decline. 24 Table of Contents The market price of our common units could be adversely affected by sales of substantial amounts of our common units in the public or private markets, including sales by Westlake or other large holders.
The issuance of additional common units or other equity interests of equal or senior rank will have the following effects: • our existing unitholders' proportionate ownership interest in us will decrease; • the amount of earnings per each unit may decrease; • the ratio of taxable income to distributions may increase; • the relative voting strength of each previously outstanding unit may be diminished; and • the market price of the common units may decline. 23 Table of Contents The market price of our common units could be adversely affected by sales of substantial amounts of our common units in the public or private markets, including sales by Westlake or other large holders.
If Westlake does not pay us under the terms of the Ethylene Sales Agreement or if our assets fail to perform as intended, we may not have sufficient cash from operations following the establishment of cash reserves and payment of costs and expenses, including cost reimbursements to our general partner and its affiliates, to enable us to pay the minimum quarterly distribution to our unitholders. • OpCo is subject to the credit risk of Westlake on a substantial majority of its revenues, and Westlake's leverage and creditworthiness could adversely affect our ability to make distributions to our unitholders. • OpCo is a restricted subsidiary under certain indentures governing Westlake's senior notes. • The ethylene sales price charged under the Ethylene Sales Agreement is designed to permit OpCo to cover the substantial majority of its operating costs, but not our public partnership, debt and other OpCo costs, which reduce our net operating profit. • If OpCo is unable to renew or extend the Ethylene Sales Agreement beyond the initial 12-year term or the other agreements with Westlake upon expiration of these agreements, our ability to make distributions in the future could be materially adversely affected and the value of our units could decline. • OpCo has the right to use the real property underlying Lake Charles Olefins and Calvert City Olefins pursuant to two, 50-year site lease agreements with Westlake.
If Westlake does not pay us under the terms of the Ethylene Sales Agreement or if our assets fail to perform as intended, we may not have sufficient cash from operations following the establishment of cash reserves and payment of costs and expenses, including cost reimbursements to our general partner and its affiliates, to enable us to pay the minimum quarterly distribution to our unitholders. • OpCo is subject to the credit risk of Westlake on a substantial majority of its revenues, and Westlake's leverage and creditworthiness could adversely affect our ability to make distributions to our unitholders. • OpCo is a restricted subsidiary under certain indentures governing Westlake's senior notes. • The ethylene sales price charged under the Ethylene Sales Agreement is designed to permit OpCo to cover the substantial majority of its operating costs, but not our public partnership, debt and other OpCo costs, which reduce our net operating profit. • If OpCo is unable to renew or extend the Ethylene Sales Agreement or the other agreements with Westlake upon expiration of these agreements, our ability to make distributions in the future could be materially adversely affected and the value of our units could decline. • OpCo has the right to use the real property underlying Lake Charles Olefins and Calvert City Olefins pursuant to two, 50-year site lease agreements with Westlake.
The incurrence of additional commercial borrowings or other debt to finance our growth strategy would result in increased interest expense, which, in turn, may impact the cash that we have available to distribute to our unitholders. 23 Table of Contents The holder or holders of our incentive distribution rights may elect to cause us to issue common units to it in connection with a resetting of the target distribution levels related to the incentive distribution rights, without the approval of the conflicts committee of our board of directors or the holders of our common units.
The incurrence of additional commercial borrowings or other debt to finance our growth strategy would result in increased interest expense, which, in turn, may impact the cash that we have available to distribute to our unitholders. 22 Table of Contents The holder or holders of our incentive distribution rights may elect to cause us to issue common units to it in connection with a resetting of the target distribution levels related to the incentive distribution rights, without the approval of the conflicts committee of our board of directors or the holders of our common units.
Any acquisition involves potential risks, some of which are beyond our control, including, among other things: • mistaken assumptions about revenues and costs, including synergies; • the inability to successfully integrate the businesses we acquire; • the inability to hire, train or retain qualified personnel to manage and operate our business and newly acquired assets; • the assumption of unknown liabilities; • limitations on rights to indemnity from the seller; • mistaken assumptions about the overall costs of equity or debt; • the diversion of management's attention from other business concerns; • unforeseen difficulties in connection with operating in new product areas or new geographic areas; and • customer or key employee losses at the acquired businesses.
Any acquisition involves potential risks, some of which are beyond our control, including, among other things: • mistaken assumptions about revenues and costs, including synergies; • the inability to successfully integrate the businesses we acquire; • the inability to hire, train or retain qualified personnel to manage and operate our business and newly acquired assets; 13 Table of Contents • the assumption of unknown liabilities; • limitations on rights to indemnity from the seller; • mistaken assumptions about the overall costs of equity or debt; • the diversion of management's attention from other business concerns; • unforeseen difficulties in connection with operating in new product areas or new geographic areas; and • customer or key employee losses at the acquired businesses.
For example, virtually all of our income allocated to organizations that are exempt from U.S. federal income tax, including IRAs and other retirement plans, will be unrelated business taxable income ("UBTI") and will be taxable to them. Tax-exempt entities should consult a tax advisor before investing in our common units. 28 Table of Contents Non-U.S.
For example, virtually all of our income allocated to organizations that are exempt from U.S. federal income tax, including IRAs and other retirement plans, will be unrelated business taxable income ("UBTI") and will be taxable to them. Tax-exempt entities should consult a tax advisor before investing in our common units. 27 Table of Contents Non-U.S.
If the IRS were to challenge our proration method, we may be required to change the allocation of items of income, gain, loss and deduction among our unitholders. 29 Table of Contents A unitholder whose units are the subject of a securities loan (e.g., a loan to a "short seller" to cover a short sale of units) may be considered to have disposed of those units.
If the IRS were to challenge our proration method, we may be required to change the allocation of items of income, gain, loss and deduction among our unitholders. 28 Table of Contents A unitholder whose units are the subject of a securities loan (e.g., a loan to a "short seller" to cover a short sale of units) may be considered to have disposed of those units.
Moreover, given the integration of OpCo's ethylene production facilities and Westlake's Lake Charles and Calvert City facilities, it may not be practical for us or for a third party to provide site services or labor for OpCo's ethylene production facilities separately. Additionally, certain of Westlake's employees in North America are represented by labor unions and works councils.
Moreover, given the integration of OpCo's ethylene production facilities and Westlake's Lake Charles and Calvert City facilities, it may not be practical for us or for a third party to provide site services or labor for OpCo's ethylene production facilities separately. Additionally, certain of Westlake's employees in North America are represented by labor unions.
Our strategy to grow our business and increase distributions to unitholders is dependent on our ability to make acquisitions that result in an increase in our cash distributions per unit.
Our ability to grow our business and increase distributions to unitholders is dependent on our ability to make acquisitions that result in an increase in our cash distributions per unit.
As a result, our ability to pay the minimum quarterly distribution is based on the following factors, some of which are beyond our control: • severe financial hardship or bankruptcy of Westlake or one of our other customers, or the occurrence of other events affecting our ability to collect payments from Westlake or our other customers, including any of our customers' default; • volatility and cyclical downturns in the chemicals industry and other industries which materially and adversely impact Westlake and our other customers; • Westlake's inability to perform, or any other default on its obligations, under the Ethylene Sales Agreement, the Services and Secondment Agreement and the Omnibus Agreement; • the age of, and changes in the reliability, efficiency and capacity of the various equipment and operating facilities used in OpCo's operations, and in the operations of Westlake and our other customers, business partners and/or suppliers; • the cost of environmental remediation at OpCo's facilities not covered by Westlake or third parties; • changes in the expected operating levels of OpCo's assets; • OpCo's ability to meet minimum volume requirements, yield standards and ethylene quality requirements in the Ethylene Sales Agreement; • OpCo's ability to renew the Ethylene Sales Agreement or to enter into new, long-term agreements for the sale of ethylene under terms that are similar or more favorable; • changes in the marketplace that may affect supply and demand for ethane or ethylene, including decreased availability of ethane (which may result from greater restrictions on hydraulic fracturing, any reduction in hydraulic fracturing due to low crude oil prices or exports of natural gas liquids from the United States, for example), increased production of ethylene (a number of new ethylene capacity expansions have been recently completed) or export of ethane or ethylene from the United States; • changes in overall levels of production, production capacity, pricing and/or margins for ethylene; • OpCo's ability to secure adequate supplies of ethane, other feedstocks and natural gas from Westlake or third parties; • the need to use higher priced or less attractive feedstock due to the unavailability of ethane; • the effects of pipeline, railroad, barge, truck and other transportation performance and costs, including any transportation disruptions; • the effects of inflation and fluctuations in interest rates; • the availability and cost of labor; • risks related to employees and workplace safety; • the effects of adverse events relating to the operation of OpCo's facilities and to the transportation and storage of hazardous materials (including equipment malfunction, explosions, fires, spills and the effects of severe weather conditions); • changes in product specifications for the ethylene that we produce; • changes in insurance markets and the level, types and costs of coverage available, and the financial ability and willingness of our insurers to meet their obligations; 10 Table of Contents • changes in, or new, statutes, regulations or governmental policies by federal, state and local authorities with respect to protection of the environment; • changes in accounting rules and/or tax laws or their interpretations; • nonperformance or force majeure by, or disputes with or changes in contract terms with, Westlake, our other major customers, suppliers, dealers, distributors or other business partners; and • changes in, or new, statutes, regulations, governmental policies and taxes, or their interpretations.
As a result, our ability to pay the minimum quarterly distribution is based on the following factors, some of which are beyond our control: • severe financial hardship or bankruptcy of Westlake or one of our other customers, or the occurrence of other events affecting our ability to collect payments from Westlake or our other customers, including any of our customers' default; • volatility and cyclical downturns in the chemicals industry and other industries which materially and adversely impact Westlake and our other customers; • Westlake's inability to perform, or any other default on its obligations, under the Ethylene Sales Agreement, the Feedstock Supply Agreement, the Services and Secondment Agreement and the Omnibus Agreement; • the age of, and changes in the reliability, efficiency and capacity of the various equipment and operating facilities used in OpCo's operations, and in the operations of Westlake and our other customers, business partners and/or suppliers; • the cost of environmental remediation at OpCo's facilities not covered by Westlake or third parties; • changes in the expected operating levels of OpCo's assets; • OpCo's ability to meet minimum volume requirements, yield standards and ethylene quality requirements in the Ethylene Sales Agreement; • OpCo's ability to renew the Ethylene Sales Agreement or to enter into new, long-term agreements for the sale of ethylene under terms that are similar or more favorable; 9 Table of Contents • changes in the marketplace that may affect supply and demand for ethane or ethylene, including decreased availability of ethane (which may result from greater restrictions on hydraulic fracturing, any reduction in hydraulic fracturing due to low crude oil prices or exports of natural gas liquids from the United States, for example), increased production of ethylene (a number of new ethylene capacity expansions have been recently completed) or export of ethane or ethylene from the United States; • changes in overall levels of production, production capacity, pricing and/or margins for ethylene; • OpCo's ability to secure adequate supplies of ethane, other feedstocks and natural gas from Westlake or third parties; • the need to use higher priced or less attractive feedstock due to the unavailability of ethane; • the effects of pipeline, railroad, barge, truck and other transportation performance and costs, including any transportation disruptions; • the outcome of legal proceedings involving our property or assets, and our ability to receive indemnification from Westlake for certain liabilities and losses; • the effects of inflation and fluctuations in interest rates; • the availability and cost of labor; • risks related to employees and workplace safety; • the effects of adverse events relating to the operation of OpCo's facilities and to the transportation and storage of hazardous materials (including equipment malfunction, explosions, fires, spills and the effects of severe weather conditions); • changes in product specifications for the ethylene that we produce; • changes in insurance markets and the level, types and costs of coverage available, and the financial ability and willingness of our and Westlake's insurers to meet their obligations; • changes in, or new, statutes, regulations or governmental policies by federal, state and local authorities with respect to protection of the environment; • changes in accounting rules and/or tax laws or their interpretations; • nonperformance or force majeure by, or disputes with or changes in contract terms with, Westlake, our other major customers, suppliers, dealers, distributors or other business partners; and • changes in, or new, statutes, regulations, governmental policies and taxes, or their interpretations.
Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act ("CERCLA") and similar state laws impose joint and several liability for the costs of remedial investigations and actions on the entities that generated waste, arranged for disposal of the waste, transported to or selected the disposal sites, and the past and present owners and operators of disposal sites.
The U.S. Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act ("CERCLA") and similar state laws impose joint and several liability for the costs of remedial investigations and actions on the entities that generated waste, arranged for disposal of the waste, transported to or selected the disposal sites, and the past and present owners and operators of disposal sites.
This effectively permits a "change of control" without the vote or consent of the unitholders. 22 Table of Contents Our general partner has a call right that may require unitholders to sell their common units at an undesirable time or price.
This effectively permits a "change of control" without the vote or consent of the unitholders. 21 Table of Contents Our general partner has a call right that may require unitholders to sell their common units at an undesirable time or price.
Examples of decisions that our general partner may make in its individual capacity include: • how to allocate business opportunities among us and its affiliates; • whether to exercise its call right; • how to exercise its voting rights with respect to the units it owns; 20 Table of Contents • whether to exercise its registration rights; • whether to elect to reset target distribution levels; and • whether or not to consent to any merger or consolidation of the partnership or amendment to the partnership agreement.
Examples of decisions that our general partner may make in its individual capacity include: • how to allocate business opportunities among us and its affiliates; • whether to exercise its call right; • how to exercise its voting rights with respect to the units it owns; • whether to exercise its registration rights; • whether to elect to reset target distribution levels; and • whether or not to consent to any merger or consolidation of the partnership or amendment to the partnership agreement.
The amendments may require us to incur further capital expenditures and increase operating costs. 16 Table of Contents Our operations also produce greenhouse gas ("GHG") emissions, which have been the subject of increased scrutiny and regulation.
The amendments may require us to incur further capital expenditures and increase operating costs. 15 Table of Contents Our operations also produce greenhouse gas ("GHG") emissions, which have been the subject of increased scrutiny and regulation.
This election may result in lower distributions to the common unitholders in certain situations. In addition, we may compete directly with Westlake and entities in which it has an interest for acquisition opportunities and potentially will compete with these entities for new business or extensions of the existing services provided by us.
This election may result in lower distributions to the common unitholders in certain situations. 19 Table of Contents In addition, we may compete directly with Westlake and entities in which it has an interest for acquisition opportunities and potentially will compete with these entities for new business or extensions of the existing services provided by us.
Members of Congress and the President have frequently proposed and considered substantive changes to the existing U.S. federal income tax laws that would affect publicly-traded partnerships, including proposals that would eliminate our ability to qualify for partnership tax treatment.
Members of Congress and the President have frequently proposed and considered substantive changes to the existing U.S. federal income tax laws that would affect publicly-traded partnerships, including proposals that would eliminate our ability to qualify for partnership tax treatment. Although Pub. L.
If the Internal Revenue Service ("IRS"), were to treat us as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes, or we become subject to entity-level taxation for state tax purposes, our cash available for distribution to our unitholders would be substantially reduced.
If the IRS, were to treat us as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes, or we become subject to entity-level taxation for state tax purposes, our cash available for distribution to our unitholders would be substantially reduced.
The actual ratio of taxable income to cash distributions could be higher or lower than expected, and any differences could be material and could materially affect the value of the common units. 27 Table of Contents Tax gain or loss on the disposition of our common units could be more or less than expected.
The actual ratio of taxable income to cash distributions could be higher or lower than expected, and any differences could be material and could materially affect the value of the common units. Tax gain or loss on the disposition of our common units could be more or less than expected.
If we were to incur a significant liability for which we were not fully insured, it could have a material adverse effect on our financial position. 15 Table of Contents Our operations and assets are subject to extensive environmental, health and safety laws and regulations. We use hazardous substances and generate hazardous wastes and emissions in our manufacturing operations.
If we were to incur a significant liability for which we were not fully insured, it could have a material adverse effect on our financial position. Our operations and assets are subject to extensive environmental, health and safety laws and regulations. We use hazardous substances and generate hazardous wastes and emissions in our manufacturing operations.
These and similar events have caused and may again cause supply chain constraints and disruptions and workforce availability issues as well. Risks Relating to Our Partnership Structure Our General Partner Westlake owns and controls our general partner, which has sole responsibility for conducting our business and managing our operations.
These and similar events have caused and may again cause supply chain constraints and disruptions and workforce availability issues as well. 18 Table of Contents Risks Relating to Our Partnership Structure Our General Partner Westlake owns and controls our general partner, which has sole responsibility for conducting our business and managing our operations.
The vote, including Westlake, of the holders of at least 66 2 / 3 % of all outstanding common and subordinated units voting together as a single class is required to remove our general partner. As of February 26, 2025, Westlake owned an aggregate of 40.1% of our common units.
The vote, including Westlake, of the holders of at least 66 2 / 3 % of all outstanding common and subordinated units voting together as a single class is required to remove our general partner. As of February 25, 2026, Westlake owned an aggregate of 40.1% of our common units.
For example, our partnership agreement provides that: • whenever our general partner makes a determination or takes, or declines to take, any other action in its capacity as our general partner, our general partner is generally required to make such determination, or take or decline to take such other action, in good faith, and will not be subject to any higher standard imposed by our partnership agreement, Delaware law, or any other law, rule or regulation, or at equity; • our general partner and its officers and directors will not be liable for monetary damages or otherwise to us or our limited partners resulting from any act or omission unless there has been a final and non-appealable judgment entered by a court of competent jurisdiction determining that such losses or liabilities were the result of conduct in which our general partner or its officers or directors engaged in bad faith, meaning that they believed that the decision was adverse to the interest of the partnership or, with respect to any criminal conduct, with knowledge that such conduct was unlawful; and • our general partner will not be in breach of its obligations under the partnership agreement or its duties to us or our limited partners if a transaction with an affiliate or the resolution of a conflict of interest is: (1) approved by the conflicts committee of the board of directors, although our general partner is not obligated to seek such approval; or (2) approved by the vote of a majority of the outstanding common units, excluding any common units owned by our general partner and its affiliates.
For example, our partnership agreement provides that: • whenever our general partner makes a determination or takes, or declines to take, any other action in its capacity as our general partner, our general partner is generally required to make such determination, or take or decline to take such other action, in good faith, and will not be subject to any higher standard imposed by our partnership agreement, Delaware law, or any other law, rule or regulation, or at equity; • our general partner and its officers and directors will not be liable for monetary damages or otherwise to us or our limited partners resulting from any act or omission unless there has been a final and non-appealable judgment entered by a court of competent jurisdiction determining that such losses or liabilities were the result of conduct in which our general partner or its officers or directors engaged in bad faith, meaning that they believed that the decision was adverse to the interest of the partnership or, with respect to any criminal conduct, with knowledge that such conduct was unlawful; and • our general partner will not be in breach of its obligations under the partnership agreement or its duties to us or our limited partners if a transaction with an affiliate or the resolution of a conflict of interest is: (1) approved by the conflicts committee of the board of directors, although our general partner is not obligated to seek such approval; or (2) approved by the vote of a majority of the outstanding common units, excluding any common units owned by our general partner and its affiliates. 20 Table of Contents In connection with a situation involving a transaction with an affiliate or a conflict of interest, other than one where our general partner is permitted to act in its sole discretion, any determination by our general partner must be made in good faith.
The amount paid by Westlake will depend upon its ability to satisfy its minimum obligations under the Ethylene Sales Agreement and its ability and election to increase volumes above the minimums specified in the Ethylene Sales Agreement, which in turn are dependent upon, among other things, the level of polyethylene and polyvinyl chloride production at Westlake's other facilities, as well as industry capacity expansion in these downstream products in North America, a number of which have been recently completed.
The amount paid by Westlake will depend upon its ability to satisfy its minimum obligations under the Ethylene Sales Agreement and its ability and election to increase volumes above the minimums specified in the Ethylene Sales Agreement, which in turn are dependent upon, among other things, the level of polyethylene and polyvinyl chloride production at Westlake's other facilities, as well as industry capacity expansion in these downstream products in North America.
For a transfer of interests in a publicly traded partnership that is effected through a broker on or after January 1, 2023, the obligation to withhold is imposed on the transferor's broker. Current and prospective non-U.S. unitholders should consult their tax advisors regarding the impact of these rules on an investment in our common units.
For a transfer of interests in a publicly traded partnership that is effected through a broker, the obligation to withhold is imposed on the transferor's broker. Current and prospective non-U.S. unitholders should consult their tax advisors regarding the impact of these rules on an investment in our common units.
If OpCo is not able to renew the site lease agreements or if the site lease agreements are terminated by Westlake, OpCo may have to relocate Lake Charles Olefins and Calvert City Olefins, abandon the assets or sell the assets to Westlake. • OpCo depends upon Westlake for numerous services and for its labor force. • Cost reimbursements due to our general partner and Westlake for services provided to us or on our behalf reduce our earnings and therefore our cash available for distribution to our unitholders.
If OpCo is not able to renew the site lease agreements or if the site lease agreements are terminated by Westlake, OpCo may have to relocate Lake Charles Olefins and Calvert City Olefins, abandon the assets or sell the assets to Westlake. • OpCo depends upon Westlake for numerous services and for its labor force. • We are obligated to reimburse our general partner and Westlake for services provided to us or on our behalf, which may reduce our earnings and therefore our cash available for distribution to our unitholders.
If OpCo is unable to renew or extend the Ethylene Sales Agreement beyond the initial 12-year initial term or the other agreements with Westlake upon expiration of these agreements, our ability to make distributions in the future could be materially adversely affected and the value of our units could decline.
If OpCo is unable to renew or extend the Ethylene Sales Agreement or the other agreements with Westlake upon expiration of these agreements, our ability to make distributions in the future could be materially adversely affected and the value of our units could decline.
Pursuant to the Services and Secondment Agreement, Westlake is obligated to provide OpCo operating services, utility access services and other key site services. Westlake provides the services of certain of its employees, who act as OpCo's agents in operating and maintaining OpCo's ethylene production facilities and other assets.
OpCo depends upon Westlake for numerous services and for its labor force. Pursuant to the Services and Secondment Agreement, Westlake is obligated to provide OpCo operating services, utility access services and other key site services. Westlake provides the services of certain of its employees, who act as OpCo's agents in operating and maintaining OpCo's ethylene production facilities and other assets.
Our ability to make payments on and refinance this debt will depend on our ability to generate cash in the future, which is subject to the same factors described above in connection with our ability to pay quarterly distributions to unitholders. Cash that is used to service debt will be unavailable for distributions to our unitholders.
Our ability to make payments on and refinance this debt will depend on our ability to generate cash in the future, which is subject to the same factors described above in connection with our ability to pay quarterly distributions to unitholders.
Any adverse developments at any of these facilities or sites could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and therefore our ability to distribute cash to unitholders. OpCo's operations are subject to significant hazards and risks inherent in ethylene production operations.
Business Operations Substantially all of OpCo's sales are generated at three facilities located at two sites. Any adverse developments at any of these facilities or sites could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and therefore our ability to distribute cash to unitholders. OpCo's operations are subject to significant hazards and risks inherent in ethylene production operations.
Based upon our current operations and current Treasury Regulations, we believe we satisfy the qualifying income requirement. 25 Table of Contents Prior to our initial public offering, we requested and obtained a favorable private letter ruling from the IRS to the effect that, based on facts presented in the private letter ruling request, our income from the production, transportation, storage and marketing of ethylene and its co-products constitutes "qualifying income" within the meaning of Section 7704 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code").
Prior to our initial public offering, we requested and obtained a favorable private letter ruling from the IRS to the effect that, based on facts presented in the private letter ruling request, our income from the production, transportation, storage and marketing of ethylene and its co-products constitutes "qualifying income" within the meaning of Section 7704 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code").
Legislation to regulate GHG emissions has periodically been introduced in the United States Congress, and such legislation may be proposed or adopted in the future. There has been a wide-ranging policy debate regarding the impact of these gases and possible means for their regulation.
Pursuant to the terms of the Paris Agreement, the withdrawal took effect in January 2026. Legislation to regulate GHG emissions has periodically been introduced in the United States Congress, and such legislation may be proposed or adopted in the future. There has been a wide-ranging policy debate regarding the impact of these gases and possible means for their regulation.
We are obligated under our partnership agreement to reimburse our general partner and its affiliates for all expenses they incur and payments they make on our behalf, including expenses we and OpCo incur under the Services and Secondment Agreement and the Omnibus Agreement.
The amount and timing of such reimbursements are determined by our general partner. We are obligated under our partnership agreement to reimburse our general partner and its affiliates for all expenses they incur and payments they make on our behalf, including expenses we and OpCo incur under the Services and Secondment Agreement and the Omnibus Agreement.
We are subject to operational and financial risks and liabilities associated with the implementation of and efforts to achieve carbon emission reduction goals. Westlake has publicly announced a target 20% reduction in its Scope 1 and Scope 2 CO2 equivalent emissions intensity per ton of production by 2030 from a 2016 baseline.
We are subject to operational and financial risks and liabilities associated with the implementation of and efforts to achieve carbon emission reduction goals. In November 2025, Westlake announced that in 2024 it successfully met its publicly disclosed target to reduce its Scope 1 and Scope 2 CO2 equivalent emissions intensity per ton of production by 20% from a 2016 baseline.
If OpCo is unable to renew the site lease agreements or if Westlake terminates one or both of the site lease agreements, OpCo may have to relocate Lake Charles Olefins and Calvert City Olefins, abandon the assets or sell the assets to Westlake, the result of which may have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition. 12 Table of Contents OpCo depends upon Westlake for numerous services and for its labor force.
If OpCo is unable to renew the site lease agreements or if Westlake terminates one or both of the site lease agreements, OpCo may have to relocate Lake Charles Olefins and Calvert City Olefins, abandon the assets or sell the assets to Westlake, the result of which may have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
Despite the fact that we are organized as a limited partnership under Delaware law, we would be treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes unless we satisfy a "qualifying income" requirement.
Despite the fact that we are organized as a limited partnership under Delaware law, we would be treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes unless we satisfy a "qualifying income" requirement. Based upon our current operations and current Treasury Regulations, we believe we satisfy the qualifying income requirement.
Tax-exempt entities face unique tax issues from owning our common units that may result in adverse tax consequences to them . Investment in our common units by tax-exempt entities, such as employee benefit plans and individual retirement accounts (known as IRAs) raises issues unique to them.
Investment in our common units by tax-exempt entities, such as employee benefit plans and individual retirement accounts (known as IRAs) raises issues unique to them.
OpCo's ability to increase throughput volumes through its assets is constrained by the capacity limitations of those assets, which are currently operating at close to full capacity. OpCo's ability to increase its cash flow by selling ethylene to third parties may be limited by the Ethylene Sales Agreement.
OpCo's ability to receive greater cash flows from increased production may be limited by the Ethylene Sales Agreement. OpCo's ability to increase throughput volumes through its assets is constrained by the capacity limitations of those assets, which are currently operating at close to full capacity.
Our operations are subject to the usual hazards associated with commodity chemical manufacturing and the related use, storage, transportation and disposal of feedstocks, products and wastes, including: • pipeline leaks and ruptures; • explosions; • fires; • severe weather and natural disasters; • long-term impacts of climate change; including rising sea levels and changes in weather patterns, such as drought and flooding; • mechanical failure; • unscheduled downtime; • labor difficulties; • transportation interruptions; • chemical spills; • discharges or releases of toxic or hazardous substances or gases; • storage tank leaks; • other environmental risks; and • terrorist attacks.
Our operations are subject to the usual hazards associated with commodity chemical manufacturing and the related use, storage, transportation and disposal of feedstocks, products and wastes, including: • pipeline leaks and ruptures; • explosions; • fires; • severe weather and natural disasters; • long-term impacts of climate change; including rising sea levels and changes in weather patterns, such as drought and flooding; • mechanical failure; • unscheduled downtime; • labor difficulties; • transportation interruptions; • chemical spills; • discharges or releases of toxic or hazardous substances or gases; • storage tank leaks; • other environmental risks; and • terrorist attacks. 14 Table of Contents All of these hazards can cause personal injury and loss of life, catastrophic damage to or destruction of property and equipment and environmental damage, and may result in a suspension of operations and the imposition of civil or criminal penalties.
If our unitholders are dissatisfied with the performance of our general partner, they currently cannot remove our general partner. Unitholders currently are unable to remove our general partner without its consent because our general partner and its affiliates own sufficient units to be able to prevent its removal.
Unitholders currently are unable to remove our general partner without its consent because our general partner and its affiliates own sufficient units to be able to prevent its removal.
Various jurisdictions have considered or adopted laws and regulations on GHG emissions, with the general aim of reducing such emissions. The EPA currently requires certain industrial facilities to report their GHG emissions, and to obtain permits with stringent control requirements before constructing or modifying new facilities with significant GHG emissions. On March 6, 2024, the U.S.
The EPA currently requires certain industrial facilities to report their GHG emissions, and to obtain permits with stringent control requirements before constructing or modifying new facilities with significant GHG emissions. On March 6, 2024, the U.S.
If we consummate any future acquisitions, our capitalization and results of operations may change significantly, and unitholders will not have the opportunity to evaluate the economic, financial and other relevant information that we will consider in determining the application of our funds and other resources. 14 Table of Contents Many of our assets have been in service for many years and require significant expenditures to maintain them.
If we consummate any future acquisitions, our capitalization and results of operations may change significantly, and unitholders will not have the opportunity to evaluate the economic, financial and other relevant information that we will consider in determining the application of our funds and other resources.
A unitholder's share of our taxable income may be increased as a result of the IRS successfully contesting any of the U.S. federal income tax positions we take. • Tax-exempt entities and non-U.S. unitholders face unique tax issues from owning our common units that may result in adverse tax consequences to them.
A unitholder's share of our taxable income may be increased as a result of the IRS successfully contesting any of the U.S. federal income tax positions we take. • Tax-exempt entities and non-U.S. unitholders face unique tax issues from owning our common units that may result in adverse tax consequences to them. 8 Table of Contents Risks Inherent in Our Business Operational Relationship with Westlake We are substantially dependent on Westlake for our cash flows.
As a result, we may continue to face increasing pressure regarding our sustainability disclosures and practices. Additionally, members of the investment community may screen companies such as ours for sustainability disclosures and performance before investing in our common units.
Additionally, members of the investment community may screen companies such as ours for sustainability disclosures and performance before investing in our common units.
OpCo is subject to the credit risk of Westlake on a substantial majority of its revenues, and Westlake's leverage and creditworthiness could adversely affect our ability to make distributions to our unitholders.
Cash that is used to service debt will be unavailable for distributions to our unitholders. 10 Table of Contents OpCo is subject to the credit risk of Westlake on a substantial majority of its revenues, and Westlake's leverage and creditworthiness could adversely affect our ability to make distributions to our unitholders.
From time to time, in connection with an offering of our common units, we may state an estimate of the ratio of U.S. federal taxable income to cash distributions that a purchaser of common units in that offering may receive in a given period.
A unitholder's ratio of its share of taxable income to the cash received by it may also be affected by changes in law. 26 Table of Contents From time to time, in connection with an offering of our common units, we may state an estimate of the ratio of U.S. federal taxable income to cash distributions that a purchaser of common units in that offering may receive in a given period.
The Final Regulations, consistent with our private letter ruling, treat our income from the production, transportation, storage and marketing of ethylene and its co-products as "qualifying income." There can be no assurance that there will not be further changes to U.S. federal income tax laws or the Treasury Department's interpretation of the qualifying income rules in a manner that could impact our ability to qualify as a partnership in the future.
The Final Regulations, consistent with our private letter ruling, treat our income from the production, transportation, storage and marketing of ethylene and its co-products as "qualifying income." There can be no assurance that there will not be further changes to U.S. federal income tax laws or the Treasury Department's interpretation of the qualifying income rules in a manner that could impact our ability to qualify as a partnership in the future. 25 Table of Contents Any modification to the U.S. federal income tax laws and interpretations thereof may or may not be retroactively applied and could make it more difficult or impossible for us to meet the exception for certain publicly-traded partnerships to be treated as partnerships for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
As a result, our maintenance or repair costs may increase in the future. In addition, while we establish cash reserves in order to cover turnaround expenditures, the amounts we reserve may not be sufficient to fully cover such expenditures. Many of the assets we use to produce ethylene are long-lived assets.
Many of our assets have been in service for many years and require significant expenditures to maintain them. As a result, our maintenance or repair costs may increase in the future. In addition, while we establish cash reserves in order to cover turnaround expenditures, the amounts we reserve may not be sufficient to fully cover such expenditures.
Any contest with the IRS may materially and adversely impact the market for our common units and the price at which they trade. Moreover, the costs of any contest between us and the IRS will result in a reduction in our cash available for distribution to our unitholders and thus will be borne indirectly by our unitholders.
Moreover, the costs of any contest between us and the IRS will result in a reduction in our cash available for distribution to our unitholders and thus will be borne indirectly by our unitholders.
A loss or shutdown of operations over an extended period at any one of our three major operating facilities would have a material adverse effect on us.
We could become subject to environmental claims brought by governmental entities or third parties. A loss or shutdown of operations over an extended period at any one of our three major operating facilities would have a material adverse effect on us.
The EPA currently requires certain industrial facilities to report their GHG emissions and to obtain permits with stringent control requirements before constructing or modifying new facilities with significant criteria pollutant and GHG emissions. As our chemical processing results in GHG emissions, these and other GHG laws and regulations could affect our costs of doing business.
The EPA currently requires certain industrial facilities to report their GHG emissions and to obtain permits with stringent control requirements before constructing or modifying new facilities with significant criteria pollutant and GHG emissions.
If our "business interest" is subject to limitation under these rules, our unitholders will be limited in their ability to deduct their share of any interest expense that has been allocated to them. As a result, unitholders may be subject to limitation on their ability to deduct interest expense incurred by us.
The OBBBA also extends the limitation to interest that is required to be capitalized under the Code, subject to certain exceptions. If our "business interest" is subject to limitation under these rules, our unitholders will be limited in their ability to deduct their share of any interest expense that has been allocated to them.
Compared to the holders of common stock in a corporation, unitholders have limited voting rights and, therefore, limited ability to influence management's decisions regarding our business. Unitholders will have no right on an annual or ongoing basis to elect our general partner or its board of directors.
Holders of our common units have limited voting rights and are not entitled to elect our general partner or its directors, which could reduce the price at which our common units trade. Compared to the holders of common stock in a corporation, unitholders have limited voting rights and, therefore, limited ability to influence management's decisions regarding our business.
If we or our securities are unable to meet the sustainability standards or investment criteria set by these investors and funds, we may lose investors or investors may allocate a portion of their capital away from us, our cost of capital may increase, and our common unit price may be negatively impacted.
If we or our securities are unable to meet the sustainability standards or investment criteria set by these investors and funds, we may lose investors or investors may allocate a portion of their capital away from us, our cost of capital may increase, and our common unit price may be negatively impacted. 24 Table of Contents Tax Risks Our tax treatment depends on our status as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and not being subject to a material amount of entity-level taxation.
In addition, any acceleration of debt under Westlake's credit facility will constitute a default under some of Westlake's other debt, including the indentures governing its senior notes. 11 Table of Contents The ethylene sales price charged under the Ethylene Sales Agreement is designed to permit OpCo to cover the substantial majority of its operating costs, but not our public partnership, debt and other OpCo costs, which reduce our net operating profit.
The ethylene sales price charged under the Ethylene Sales Agreement is designed to permit OpCo to cover the substantial majority of its operating costs, but not our public partnership, debt and other OpCo costs, which reduce our net operating profit.
All such potentially responsible parties (or any one of them, including us) may be required to bear all of such costs regardless of fault, legality of the original disposal or ownership of the disposal site.
All such potentially responsible parties (or any one of them, including us) may be required to bear all of such costs regardless of fault, legality of the original disposal or ownership of the disposal site. In addition, CERCLA and similar state laws could impose liability for damages to natural resources caused by contamination.
Multiple lawsuits have been filed challenging the SEC's new climate rules, and on April 4, 2024, the SEC issued an order staying the final rules until judicial review is complete. In September 2023, California passed climate-related disclosure mandates that are broader than the SEC's rules.
Multiple lawsuits have been filed challenging the SEC's new climate rules, and on April 4, 2024, the SEC issued an order staying the final rules until judicial review is complete. The SEC's final climate-related disclosure rules remain stayed pending resolution of judicial challenges and further action by the SEC.
Multiple lawsuits have been filed challenging the SEC's new climate rules, and on April 4, 2024, the SEC issued an order staying the final rules until judicial review is complete. In September 2023, California passed climate-related disclosure mandates that are broader than the SEC's rules.
Multiple lawsuits have been filed challenging the SEC's new climate rules, and on April 4, 2024, the SEC issued an order staying the final rules until judicial review is complete. The SEC's final climate-related disclosure rules remain stayed pending resolution of judicial challenges and further action by the SEC.
If OpCo were unable to reach agreement with Westlake on an extension or replacement of these agreements, then our ability to make distributions on our common units could be materially adversely affected and the value of our common units could decline.
If OpCo were unable to reach agreement with Westlake on an extension or replacement of these agreements in the future, then our ability to make distributions on our common units could be materially adversely affected and the value of our common units could decline. 11 Table of Contents OpCo has the right to use the real property underlying Lake Charles Olefins and Calvert City Olefins pursuant to two, 50-year site lease agreements with Westlake.
Our operations may be adversely affected by strikes, work stoppages and other labor disputes involving those employees that operate and maintain OpCo's ethylene production facilities and other assets.
Our operations have been and may in the future be adversely affected by strikes, work stoppages and other labor disputes involving those employees that operate and maintain OpCo's ethylene production facilities and other assets. Any future strikes or work stoppages could be significant and have an adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.
As our chemical processing results in GHG emissions, these and other environmental disclosure laws and regulations could affect our costs of doing business. We also may face liability for alleged personal injury or property damage due to exposure to chemicals or other hazardous substances at our facilities or to chemicals that we otherwise manufacture, handle or own.
We also may face liability for alleged personal injury or property damage due to exposure to chemicals or other hazardous substances at our facilities or to chemicals that we otherwise manufacture, handle or own.
Information technology system failures, network disruptions and breaches of data security due to internal or external factors including cyber-attacks could have material adverse impacts on our business or cause disruptions to our operations.
We use these technologies for internal and operational purposes, including data storage, processing, and transmission, as well as in our interactions with our business associates, such as customers and suppliers. 17 Table of Contents Information technology system failures, network disruptions and breaches of data security due to internal or external factors including cyber-attacks could have material adverse impacts on our business or cause disruptions to our operations.
Ownership of Our Common Units • We may issue additional units without unitholder approval, which would dilute existing unitholder ownership interests. • The market price of our common units could be adversely affected by sales of substantial amounts of our common units in the public or private markets, including sales by Westlake or other large holders. 8 Table of Contents Tax Risks • Our tax treatment depends on our status as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and not being subject to a material amount of entity-level taxation.
Ownership of Our Common Units • We may issue additional units without unitholder approval, which would dilute existing unitholder ownership interests. • The market price of our common units could be adversely affected by sales of substantial amounts of our common units in the public or private markets, including sales by Westlake or other large holders.
Terrorist activities, anti-terrorist efforts and other armed conflicts involving the United States or other jurisdictions could adversely affect the United States and global economies and could prevent us from meeting financial and other obligations.
A reduction in demand for our common units may cause their trading price to decline. A terrorist attack or armed conflict could harm our business. Terrorist activities, anti-terrorist efforts and other armed conflicts involving the United States or other jurisdictions could adversely affect the United States and global economies and could prevent us from meeting financial and other obligations.
We are exposed to interest rate risk with respect to our outstanding debt, all of which is variable-rate debt. At December 31, 2024, we had $399.7 million in principal amount of variable-rate debt outstanding, including $22.6 million outstanding under the OpCo Revolver and $377.1 million outstanding under the MLP Revolver.
At December 31, 2025, we had $399.7 million in principal amount of variable-rate debt outstanding, including $22.6 million outstanding under the OpCo Revolver and $377.1 million outstanding under the MLP Revolver. Each of the OpCo Revolver and the MLP Revolver have interest rates in-part based on SOFR at the time of any borrowing.
Environmental laws may have a significant effect on the nature and scope of, and responsibility for, cleanup of contamination at our current and former operating facilities, the costs of transportation and storage of raw materials and finished products, the costs of reducing emissions and the costs of the storage and disposal of wastewater. The U.S.
Although these types of claims have not historically had a material impact on our operations, a significant increase in the success of these types of claims could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, operating results or cash flow. 16 Table of Contents Environmental laws may have a significant effect on the nature and scope of, and responsibility for, cleanup of contamination at our current and former operating facilities, the costs of transportation and storage of raw materials and finished products, the costs of reducing emissions and the costs of the storage and disposal of wastewater.
A suspension of Westlake's obligations under the Ethylene Sales Agreement, including during periods where OpCo's facilities are not operating due to scheduled or unscheduled maintenance or turnarounds, would reduce OpCo's revenues and cash flows, and could materially adversely affect our ability to make distributions to our unitholders. 9 Table of Contents Westlake may be unable to generate enough cash flow from operations to meet its minimum obligations under the Ethylene Sales Agreement if its business is adversely impacted by competition, operational problems, international trade barriers, general adverse economic conditions or the inability to obtain feedstock.
A suspension of Westlake's obligations under the Ethylene Sales Agreement, including during periods where OpCo's facilities are not operating due to scheduled or unscheduled maintenance or turnarounds, would reduce OpCo's revenues and cash flows, and could materially adversely affect our ability to make distributions to our unitholders.
You are urged to consult with your own tax advisor with respect to the status of regulatory or administrative developments and proposals and their potential effect on your investment in our common units. 26 Table of Contents If the IRS were to contest the U.S. federal income tax positions we take, it may adversely impact the market for our common units, and the costs of any such contest would reduce our cash available for distribution to our unitholders.
If the IRS were to contest the U.S. federal income tax positions we take, it may adversely impact the market for our common units, and the costs of any such contest would reduce our cash available for distribution to our unitholders. The IRS may adopt positions that differ from the positions we take.
The Ethylene Sales Agreement provisions may prohibit OpCo from competing effectively for third party business for this excess production given the limited volumes available for sale. For example, so long as Westlake is not in default under the Ethylene Sales Agreement, Westlake has the right to purchase 95% of OpCo's production in excess of planned capacity.
The Ethylene Sales Agreement provisions may prohibit OpCo from competing effectively for third party business for this excess production given the limited volumes available for sale.
As a result, some of those assets have been in service for many decades. The age and condition of these assets could result in increased maintenance or repair expenditures. In addition, while we establish certain cash reserves to cover our expected turnaround expenditures, the amounts we reserve may be insufficient to fully cover such expenditures.
Many of the assets we use to produce ethylene are long-lived assets. As a result, some of those assets have been in service for many decades. The age and condition of these assets could result in increased maintenance or repair expenditures.
Recent proposals have provided for the expansion of the qualifying income exception for publicly traded partnerships in certain circumstances and other proposals have provided for the total elimination of the qualifying income exception upon which we rely for our partnership tax treatment.
No. 119-21, commonly known as "The One Big Beautiful Bill Act" (the "OBBBA"), which President Trump signed into law on July 4, 2025, provided for the expansion of the qualifying income exception for publicly traded partnerships in certain circumstances, other proposals have provided for the total elimination of the qualifying income exception upon which we rely for our partnership tax treatment.
In addition, CERCLA and similar state laws could impose liability for damages to natural resources caused by contamination. 17 Table of Contents Although we seek to take preventive action, our operations are inherently subject to accidental spills, discharges or other releases of hazardous substances that may make us liable to governmental entities or private parties.
Although we seek to take preventive action, our operations are inherently subject to accidental spills, discharges or other releases of hazardous substances that may make us liable to governmental entities or private parties. This may involve contamination associated with our current and former facilities, facilities to which we sent wastes or by-products for treatment or disposal and other contamination.
The IRS may adopt positions that differ from the positions we take. It may be necessary to resort to administrative or court proceedings to sustain some or all of the positions we take. A court may not agree with some or all of the positions we take.
It may be necessary to resort to administrative or court proceedings to sustain some or all of the positions we take. A court may not agree with some or all of the positions we take. Any contest with the IRS may materially and adversely impact the market for our common units and the price at which they trade.
The board of directors, including the independent directors, is chosen entirely by Westlake, as a result of it owning our general partner, and not by our unitholders. Unlike publicly-traded corporations, we do not conduct annual meetings of our unitholders to elect directors or conduct other matters routinely conducted at annual meetings of stockholders of corporations.
Unitholders will have no right on an annual or ongoing basis to elect our general partner or its board of directors. The board of directors, including the independent directors, is chosen entirely by Westlake, as a result of it owning our general partner, and not by our unitholders.
In addition, laws and regulations governing cybersecurity, data privacy, and the unauthorized disclosure of confidential or protected information pose increasingly complex compliance challenges, and failure to comply with these laws could result in penalties and legal liability. 18 Table of Contents Our variable-rate debt exposes us to increases in interest rates, which could have a material impact on our financial position, results of operation and cash flows, and could reduce the price at which our common units trade.
In addition, laws and regulations governing cybersecurity, data privacy, and the unauthorized disclosure of confidential or protected information pose increasingly complex compliance challenges, and failure to comply with these laws could result in penalties and legal liability.
The reimbursement of expenses and payment of fees, if any, to our general partner and its affiliates reduce the amount of our earnings and, thereby, our ability to distribute cash to our unitholders. 13 Table of Contents Business Operations Substantially all of OpCo's sales are generated at three facilities located at two sites.
Our partnership agreement provides that our general partner determines the expenses that are allocable to us. The reimbursement of expenses and payment of fees, if any, to our general partner and its affiliates reduce the amount of our earnings and, thereby, our ability to distribute cash to our unitholders.
An increase in interest rates may also cause a corresponding decline in demand for equity securities in general, and in particular, for yield-based equity securities such as our common units. A reduction in demand for our common units may cause their trading price to decline. A terrorist attack or armed conflict could harm our business.
As a result, significant increases in interest rates could have a material impact on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows. An increase in interest rates may also cause a corresponding decline in demand for equity securities in general, and in particular, for yield-based equity securities such as our common units.
Any significant and unexpected increase in these expenditures could adversely affect our results of operations, financial position or cash flows, as well as our ability to pay cash distributions. Our production facilities process volatile and hazardous materials that subject us to operating risks that could adversely affect our operating results.
Our production facilities process volatile and hazardous materials that subject us to operating risks that could adversely affect our operating results.