Continued inflationary pressures and increased commodity prices may also result in increases to the costs of our oilfield goods, services and personnel, which would in turn cause our capital expenditures and operating costs to rise. The United States has experienced a rise in inflation since October 2021.
Continued inflationary pressures and increased commodity prices may also result in increases in the costs of our oilfield goods, services and personnel, which would in turn cause our capital expenditures and operating costs to rise. The United States has experienced a rise in inflation since October 2021.
The expense may not be reversed in future periods, even though higher oil, natural gas and NGL prices may subsequently increase the ceiling. We perform this ceiling test calculation each quarter. In accordance with the SEC rules and regulations, we utilize SEC Pricing when performing the ceiling test.
The expense may not be reversed in future periods, even though higher oil, NGL and natural gas prices may subsequently increase the ceiling. We perform this ceiling test calculation each quarter. In accordance with SEC rules and regulations, we utilize SEC pricing when performing the ceiling test.
We and other offshore Gulf of Mexico producers may, in the ordinary course of business, receive demands in the future for financial assurances from BOEM as BOEM continues to reevaluate its requirements for financial assurance.
We and other offshore Gulf of Mexico producers may, in the ordinary course of business, receive demands in the future for financial assurances from the BOEM as the BOEM continues to reevaluate its requirements for financial assurance.
Our realized sales prices received for our crude oil, NGLs and natural gas production are affected by many factors outside of our control, including changes in market supply and demand, which are impacted by weather conditions, pipeline capacity constraints, inventory storage levels, domestic production activities and political issues, and international geopolitical and economic events.
Our realized sales prices received for our oil, NGLs and natural gas production are affected by many factors outside of our control, including changes in market supply and demand, which are impacted by weather conditions, pipeline capacity constraints, inventory storage levels, domestic production activities and political issues, and international geopolitical and economic events.
Capital Expenditures The level of our investment in oil and natural gas properties changes from time to time depending on numerous factors including the prices of crude oil, NGLs and natural gas, acquisition opportunities, liquidity and financing options and the results of our exploration and development activities.
Capital Expenditures The level of our investment in oil and natural gas properties changes from time to time depending on numerous factors including the prices of oil, NGLs and natural gas, acquisition opportunities, liquidity and financing options and the results of our exploration and development activities.
Any costs in excess of the ceiling are recognized as a non-cash “Write-down of oil and natural gas properties” on the Consolidated Statements of Operations and an increase to “Accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization” on the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Any costs in excess of the ceiling are recognized as a non-cash “Write-down of oil and natural gas properties” on the Consolidated Statements of Operations and an increase to “Accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization” on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Expenses for direct labor, materials, supplies, repair and third party costs comprise the most significant portion of our base lease operating expense.
Expenses for direct labor, materials, supplies, repair, third-party costs and insurance comprise the most significant portion of our base lease operating expense.
Authoritative guidance for accounting for uncertainty in income taxes requires that we recognize the financial statement benefit of a tax position only after determining that the relevant tax authority would more likely than not sustain the position following an audit. When applicable, the Company recognizes interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions in income tax expense.
Authoritative guidance for accounting for uncertainty in income taxes requires that we recognize the financial statement benefit of a tax position only after determining that the relevant tax authority would more likely than not sustain the position following an audit. When applicable, we recognize interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions in income tax expense.
General and administrative expenses (“G&A”) – G&A expense generally consists of costs incurred for overhead, including payroll and benefits for our corporate staff, costs of maintaining our headquarters, costs of managing our production operations, bad debt expense, equity based compensation expense, audit and other fees for professional services and legal compliance.
General and administrative expenses (“G&A”) – G&A expense generally consists of costs incurred for overhead, including payroll and benefits for our corporate staff, costs of maintaining our headquarters, costs of managing our production operations, bad debt expense, share-based compensation costs, audit and other fees for professional services and legal compliance.
At current pricing levels, we expect our cash flows to cover our liquidity requirements and we expect additional financing sources to be available if needed. If our liquidity becomes stressed from significant reductions in realized prices, we have flexibility in our capital expenditure budget to reduce investments.
At current pricing levels, we expect our cash flows to cover our liquidity requirements, and we expect additional financing sources to be available if needed. If our liquidity becomes stressed from significant or prolonged reductions in realized prices, we have flexibility in our capital expenditure budget to reduce investments.
The accuracy of our reserve estimates is a function of: ● the quality and quantity of available data and the engineering and geological interpretation of that data; ● estimates regarding the amount and timing of future operating costs, severance taxes, development costs and workovers, all of which may vary considerably from actual results; ● the accuracy of various mandated economic assumptions, such as the future prices of crude oil and natural gas; and ● the judgment of the persons preparing the estimates.
The accuracy of our reserve estimates is a function of: ● the quality and quantity of available data and the engineering and geological interpretation of that data; ● estimates regarding the amount and timing of future operating costs, severance taxes, development costs and workovers, all of which may vary considerably from actual results; ● the accuracy of various mandated economic assumptions, such as the future prices of oil and natural gas; and ● the judgments of the persons preparing the estimates.
Under the full cost method, the Company’s capitalized costs are limited to a ceiling based on the present value of future net revenues from proved reserves, computed using a discount factor of 10 percent, plus the lower of cost or estimated fair value of unproved oil and natural gas properties not being amortized less the related tax effects.
Impairment of Oil and Natural Gas Properties Under the full cost method, our capitalized costs are limited to a ceiling based on the present value of future net revenues from proved reserves, computed using a discount factor of 10 percent, plus the lower of cost or estimated fair value of unproved oil and natural gas properties not being amortized less the related tax effects.
As a result of the derivative contracts we have on our anticipated natural gas production volumes through April 2028, we expect these activities to continue to impact net income (loss) based on fluctuations in market prices for natural gas. As of December 31, 2022, we do not have any open oil contracts.
As a result of the derivative contracts we have on our anticipated natural gas production volumes through April 2028, we expect these activities to continue to impact net income based on fluctuations in market prices for natural gas. As of December 31, 2023, we do not have any open oil contracts.
Results of Operations Year Ended December 31, 2022 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2021 Revenues Our revenues are derived from the sale of our oil and natural gas production, as well as the sale of NGLs.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS Year Ended December 31, 2023 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2022 Revenues Our revenues are derived from the sale of our oil and natural gas production, as well as the sale of NGLs.
Proved oil and natural gas reserves are the estimated quantities of crude oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids which geological and engineering data demonstrate with reasonable certainty to be recoverable in future periods from known reservoirs under existing economic and operating conditions.
Proved oil and natural gas reserves are the estimated quantities of oil, NGL and natural gas which geological and engineering data demonstrate with reasonable certainty to be recoverable in future periods from known reservoirs under existing economic and operating conditions.
During 2022 and 2021, we revised our estimates of costs anticipated to be charged by service providers for plugging and abandonment projects and revised estimated to actual spending as invoices were processed and projects completed.
During 2023 and 2022, we revised our estimates of costs anticipated to be charged by service providers for plugging and abandonment projects and revised our estimates to actual spending as invoices were processed and projects were completed.
Discussions of 2020 items and year-to-year comparisons between 2021 and 2020 that are not included in this Annual Report are incorporated by reference to Part II, Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021.
Discussions of 2021 items and comparisons between 2022 and 2021 that are not included in the Form 10-K are incorporated by reference to Part II, Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022.
The IRA also increases the minimum oil and gas royalty rate for new offshore leases from the current 12.50% to 16.67% and caps the royalty rate at 18.75% for 10 years. The 18.75% cap is commensurate with existing offshore royalty rate for leases in water depth exceeding 200 meters. This provision does not affect existing offshore leases.
The IRA also increases the minimum oil and gas royalty rate for new offshore leases from the current 12.50% to 16.67% and caps the royalty rate at 18.75% for 10 years. The 18.75% cap is commensurate with existing offshore royalty rate for leases in water depth exceeding 200 meters.
Our Company and others like us, are exposed to a number of risks by operating in the oil and gas industry in the Gulf of Mexico, which are described in Item 1A, Risk Factors, in this Form 10-K.
We and others like us, are exposed to a number of risks by operating in the oil and natural gas industry in the Gulf of Mexico, which are described in Item 1A. Risk Factors, in this Form 10-K.
A valuation allowance is established to reduce deferred tax assets if it is more likely than not that the related tax benefits will not be realized. 63 Table of Contents We apply significant judgment in evaluating its tax positions and estimating our provision for income taxes.
A valuation allowance is established to reduce deferred tax assets if it is more likely than not that the related tax benefits will not be realized. We apply significant judgment in evaluating tax positions and estimating our provision for income taxes.
Actual results may be significantly different from such estimates, which would affect the timing of when these expenses would be recognized as DD&A. See Oil and Natural Gas Reserve Quantities and Asset Retirement Obligations below for more information. 62 Table of Contents Impairment of Oil and Natural Gas Properties.
Actual results may be significantly different from such estimates, which would affect the timing of when these expenses would be recognized as DD&A. See Oil and Natural Gas Reserve Quantities and Asset Retirement Obligations below for more information.
As of December 31, 2022, we had approximately $438.0 million of bonds outstanding, with the majority related to plugging and abandonment obligations. The amounts are based on current market rates and conditions for these types of bonds and are subject to change. Excluded are potential increases in surety bond requirements which cannot be determined.
As of December 31, 2023, we had approximately $454.2 million of bonds outstanding, with the majority related to plugging and abandonment obligations. The amounts are based on current market rates and conditions for these types of bonds and are subject to change. Excluded are potential increases in surety bond requirements which cannot be determined.
Because these estimates depend on many assumptions, any or all of which may differ substantially from actual results, reserve estimates may be different from the quantities of oil and natural gas that are ultimately recovered. Asset retirement obligations . The Company has obligations associated with the retirement of its oil and natural gas wells and related infrastructure.
Because these estimates depend on many assumptions, any or all of which may differ substantially from actual results, reserve estimates may be different from the quantities of oil and natural gas that are ultimately recovered. Asset Retirement Obligations We have obligations associated with the retirement of our oil and natural gas wells and related infrastructure.
Debt Covenants – The Term Loan, Credit Agreement, and 9.75% Senior Second Lien Notes contain financial covenants calculated as of the last day of each fiscal quarter, which include thresholds on financial ratios, as defined in the respective Subsidiary Credit Agreement, the Credit Agreement and the indenture related to the 9.75% Senior Second Lien Notes.
Debt Covenants – The Term Loan, Credit Agreement and 11.75% Notes contain financial covenants calculated as of the last day of each fiscal quarter, which include thresholds on financial ratios, as defined in the respective Subsidiary Credit Agreement, the Credit Agreement and the indenture related to the 11.75% Notes.
Our preliminary capital expenditure budget for 2023 has been established in the range of $90.0 million to $110.0 million, which excludes acquisitions. In our view of the outlook for 2023, we believe this level of capital expenditure will enhance our liquidity capacity throughout 2023 and beyond while providing liquidity to make strategic acquisitions.
Our preliminary capital expenditure budget for 2024 has been established in the range of $35.0 million to $45.0 million, which excludes acquisitions. In our view of the outlook for 2024, we believe this level of capital expenditure will enhance our liquidity capacity throughout 2024 and beyond while providing liquidity to make strategic acquisitions.
Our oil, natural gas and NGL revenues do not include the effects of derivatives, which are reported in “Derivative loss (gain)” in our Consolidated Statements of Operations.
Our oil, NGL and natural gas revenues do not include the effects of derivatives, which are reported in Derivative (gain) loss, net in our Consolidated Statements of Operations.
The expense may not be reversed in future periods, even though higher oil, natural gas and NGL prices may subsequently increase the ceiling. The Company performs this ceiling test calculation each quarter. In accordance with the SEC rules and regulations, the Company utilizes SEC pricing when performing the ceiling test.
The expense may not be reversed in future periods, even though higher oil, NGL and natural gas prices may subsequently increase the ceiling. We perform this ceiling test calculation each quarter. In accordance with SEC rules and regulations, we utilize SEC pricing when performing the ceiling test.
Term Loan – As of December 31, 2022, we had $147.9 million of Term Loan principal outstanding. The Term Loan requires quarterly amortization payments, bears interest at a fixed rate of 7.0% per annum and will mature on May 19, 2028.
Term Loan – As of December 31, 2023, we had $114.2 million of Term Loan principal outstanding. The Term Loan requires quarterly amortization payments, bears interest at a fixed rate of 7.0% per annum and will mature on May 19, 2028.
In estimating the liability associated with its asset retirement obligations, the Company utilizes several assumptions, including a credit-adjusted risk-free interest rate, estimated costs of decommissioning services, estimated timing of when the work will be performed and a projected inflation rate.
In estimating the liability associated with our asset retirement obligations, we utilize several assumptions, including a credit-adjusted risk-free interest rate, estimated costs of decommissioning services, estimated timing of when the work will be performed and a projected inflation rate.
Additionally, we revise our estimates to account for the cost to comply with any new or revised regulations, including increases in work scope and cost changes from interpretation of work scope.
Additionally, we revise our estimates to account for the cost to comply with any new or revised regulations, including increases in work scope and cost changes from interpretation of work scope. See Part I, Item 1A.
We record adjustments to reflect actual taxes paid in the period that we complete our tax returns. The Company accounts for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in the financial statements in accordance with GAAP by prescribing a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return.
We record adjustments to reflect actual taxes paid in the period that we complete our tax returns. 58 Table of Contents We account for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in the consolidated financial statements in accordance with GAAP by prescribing a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return.
Additionally, other liabilities and commitments includes estimates of minimum quantities obligations for certain pipeline contracts which were assumed in conjunction with the purchase of an interest in the Heidelberg field. The above table excludes our obligations under joint interest arrangements related to commitments that have not yet been incurred.
Additionally, other liabilities and commitments include estimates of minimum quantities obligations for certain pipeline contracts which were assumed in conjunction with the purchase of an interest in the Heidelberg field. These amounts exclude our obligations under joint interest arrangements related to commitments that have not yet been incurred.
The methane emissions charge may increase our operating costs and adversely affect our business. 46 Table of Contents Impairment of Oil and Natural Gas Properties – Under the full cost method of accounting that we use for our oil and gas operations, our capitalized costs are limited to a ceiling based on the present value of future net revenues from proved reserves, computed using a discount factor of 10 percent, plus the lower of cost or estimated fair value of unproved oil and natural gas properties not being amortized less the related tax effects.
Impairment of Oil and Natural Gas Properties – Under the full cost method of accounting that we use for our oil and gas operations, our capitalized costs are limited to a ceiling based on the present value of future net revenues from proved reserves, computed using a discount factor of 10 percent, plus the lower of cost or estimated fair value of unproved oil and natural gas properties not being amortized less the related tax effects.
Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, those discussed below and elsewhere in this Form 10-K, particularly in Part I, Item 1A Risk Factors . This section of this Annual Report generally discusses 2022 and 2021 items and year-to-year comparisons between 2022 and 2021.
Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, those discussed below and elsewhere in this Form 10-K, particularly in Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors . This section primarily discusses 2023 and 2022 items and comparisons between 2023 and 2022.
In 2022 or 2021, we have not had to post collateral for sureties and we currently do not have any collateral posted for surety bonds.
In both 2023 and 2022, we have not had to post collateral for sureties, and we currently do not have any collateral posted for surety bonds.
Regulations – We are subject to a number of regulations from federal and state governmental entities, which are described under Part I, Item 1, Regulations in this Form 10-K.
Regulations – We are subject to a number of regulations from federal and state governmental entities, which are described under Part I, Item 1. Business ‒ Environmental, Health and Safety Matters and Government Regulations in this Form 10-K.
BOEM Matters – BOEM requires that lessees demonstrate financial strength and reliability according to its regulations or provide acceptable financial assurances to satisfy lease obligations, including decommissioning activities on the OCS. As of December 31, 2022, the Company is in compliance with its financial assurance obligations to BOEM and has no outstanding BOEM orders related to financial assurance obligations.
BOEM Matters – The BOEM requires that lessees demonstrate financial strength and reliability according to its regulations or provide acceptable financial assurances to satisfy lease obligations, including decommissioning activities on the OCS. As of December 31, 2023, we are in compliance with our financial assurance obligations to the BOEM and have no outstanding BOEM orders related to financial assurance obligations.
We measure margins using Adjusted EBITDA which we define net (loss) income (loss) before income tax expense (benefit), net interest expense, and depreciation, depletion, amortization and accretion, the unrealized commodity derivative gain or loss and the effects derivative premium payments, allowance for credit losses, write off of debt issuance costs, non-cash incentive compensation, non-recurring IT transition costs, release of restricted funds, non-ARO P&A costs, and other miscellaneous costs as a percent of revenue, which is not a financial measurement under GAAP.
We measure margins using an Adjusted EBITDA margin which we define as net income (loss) before income tax expense, net interest expense, depreciation, depletion, amortization and accretion, unrealized commodity derivative gain or loss and the effects of derivative premium payments, allowance for credit losses, non-cash incentive compensation, non-recurring costs related to IT services transition, non-ARO P&A costs, and other miscellaneous costs as a percent of revenue, which is not a financial measurement under GAAP.
These operating costs are comprised of several components including, direct or base lease operating expenses, insurance premiums, workover costs, facilities repairs and maintenance expenses, and hurricane repair expenses.
These operating costs are comprised of several components including direct or base lease operating expenses, insurance premiums, workover costs and facility maintenance expenses.
For more information on the BOEM and financial assurance obligations to that agency, see Business – Compliance with Government Regulations – Decommissioning and financial assurance requirements under Part I, Item 1 of this Form 10-K. 47 Table of Contents Surety Bond Collateral – In prior years, some of the sureties that provide us surety bonds used for supplemental financial assurance purposes have requested and received collateral from us, and may request additional collateral from us in the future, which could be significant and could impact our liquidity.
For more information on the BOEM and financial assurance obligations to that agency, see Business – Environmental, Health and Safety Matters and Government Regulations – Other Regulation of the Oil and Natural Gas Industry under Part I, Item 1 of this Form 10-K. 45 Table of Contents Surety Bond Collateral – In prior years, some of the sureties that provide us surety bonds used for supplemental financial assurance purposes have requested and received collateral from us and may request additional collateral from us in the future, which could be significant and could impact our liquidity.
See Financial Statements and Supplementary Data – Note 2 – Debt under Part II, Item 8 in this Form 10-K for additional information on our debt. Other expense (income), net – During the year ended December 31, 2022, other expense, net, was $14.3 million, compared to $6.2 million of other income, net, for 2021.
See Financial Statements and Supplementary Data – Note 2 – Debt under Part II, Item 8 in this Form 10-K for additional information on our debt. Other expense, net – During 2023, other expense, net, was $5.6 million, compared to $14.3 million for 2022.
The Company accrues a liability with respect to these obligations based on its estimate of the timing and amount to replace, remove or retire the associated assets.
We accrue a liability with respect to these obligations based on our estimate of the timing and amount to replace, remove or retire the associated assets.
Furthermore, the IRA imposes a methane emissions charge. The IRA amends the federal Clean Air Act to impose a fee on emissions of methane from sources required to report their greenhouse gas emissions to the EPA, including sources in the offshore and onshore oil and gas production, and onshore processing, transmission and compression, gathering, and boosting station source categories.
This provision does not affect existing offshore leases. 44 Table of Contents Furthermore, the IRA amends the federal Clean Air Act to impose a fee on emissions of methane from sources required to report their greenhouse gas emissions to the EPA, including sources in the offshore and onshore oil and gas production, and onshore processing, transmission and compression, gathering, and boosting station source categories.
As of December 31, 2022, we had $461.4 million of available cash and $50.0 million available under our Credit Agreement, based on a borrowing base of $50.0 million.
As of December 31, 2023, we had $173.3 million of available cash on hand and $50.0 million available under our Credit Agreement, based on a borrowing base of $50.0 million.
Under the Subsidiary Credit Agreement and related instruments, assets of the Aquasition Entities may not be available to mortgage or pledge as security to secure new indebtedness of the Company and its other subsidiaries.
Under the credit agreement the Aquasition Entities are party to (the “Subsidiary Credit Agreement”) and related instruments, assets of the Aquasition Entities may not be available to mortgage or pledge as security to secure new indebtedness of us and our other subsidiaries.
Our lease operating costs, which depend in part on the type of commodity produced, the level of workover activity and the geographical location of the properties, increased $49.8 million to $224.4 million in 2022 compared to $174.6 million in 2021.
Our lease operating costs, which depend in part on the type of commodity produced, the level of workover activity and the geographical location of the properties, increased $33.3 million to $257.7 million in 2023 compared to $224.4 million in 2022.
The Company used the net proceeds of $270.8 million from the issuance of the 11.75% Senior Second Lien Notes and cash on hand of $296.1 million to fund the redemption. See Financial Statements and Supplementary Data –Note 20 – Subsequent Events under Part II, Item 8 in this Form 10-K for additional information. Reaffirmation of Credit Agreement.
We used the net proceeds from the issuance of the 11.75% Notes and $296.1 million of cash on hand to fund the redemption. See Financial Statements and Supplementary Data –Note 2 – Debt under Part II, Item 8 in this Form 10-K for additional information.
We have outlined below certain accounting policies that are of particular importance to the presentation of our financial position and results of operations and require the application of significant judgment or estimates by our management. Revenue Recognition.
We have outlined below certain accounting policies that are of particular importance to the presentation of our financial position and results of operations and require the application of significant judgment or estimates by our management. Full Cost Accounting We account for our oil and natural gas operations using the full cost method of accounting.
We have funded such activities in the past with cash on hand, net cash provided by operating activities, sales of property, securities offerings and bank and other borrowings, and expect to continue to do so in the future. The primary sources of our liquidity are cash from operating activities and borrowings under our Credit Agreement.
We have funded such activities in the past with cash on hand, net cash provided by operating activities, sales of property, securities offerings and bank and other borrowings, and expect to continue to do so in the future. We expect to support our business requirements primarily with cash on hand and cash generated from operations.
If the Company incurs an amount different from the amount accrued for decommissioning obligations, the Company recognizes the difference as an adjustment to proved properties. Income taxes. Our provision for income taxes includes U.S. state and federal taxes.
If we incur an amount different from the amount accrued for decommissioning obligations, we recognize the difference as an adjustment to our oil and natural gas properties. Income Taxes Our provision for income taxes includes U.S. state and federal taxes.
Such uncertainties may include: ● ceiling test write-downs of the carrying value of our oil and gas properties; ● reductions in our proved reserves and the estimated value thereof; ● additional supplemental bonding and potential collateral requirements; ● reductions in our borrowing base under the Credit Agreement; and ● our ability to fund capital expenditures needed to replace produced reserves, which must be replaced on a long-term basis to provide cash to fund liquidity needs described above. 45 Table of Contents Rising Interest Rates and Inflation of Cost of Goods, Services and Personnel – Due to the cyclical nature of the oil and gas industry, fluctuating demand for oilfield goods and services can put pressure on the pricing structure within our industry.
Such uncertainties may include: ● ceiling test write-downs of the carrying value of our oil and gas properties; ● reductions in our proved reserves and the estimated value thereof; ● additional supplemental bonding and potential collateral requirements; ● reductions in our borrowing base under the Credit Agreement; and ● our ability to fund capital expenditures needed to replace produced reserves, which must be replaced on a long-term basis to provide cash to fund liquidity needs described above.
See Financial Statements and Supplementary Data – Note 2 – Debt under Part II, Item 8 in this Form 10-K for additional information. 57 Table of Contents The Subsidiary Borrowers On May 19, 2021, we formed A-I LLC and A-II LLC, both indirect, wholly-owned subsidiaries of W&T Offshore, Inc., through their parent, Aquasition Energy LLC (collectively, the Aquasition Entities”).
See Financial Statements and Supplementary Data – Note 17 – Commitments under Part II, Item 8 in this 10-K for additional information. THE SUBSIDIARY BORROWERS During 2021, we formed A-I LLC and A-II LLC, both indirect, wholly-owned subsidiaries, through their parent, Aquasition Energy LLC (collectively, the “Aquasition Entities”).
Financial Statements and Supplementary data — Note 1 — Summary of Significant Accounting Policies for further discussion. Accretion expense is the expensing of the changes in value of our asset retirement obligations as a result of the passage of time over the estimated productive life of the related assets as the discounted liabilities are accreted to their expected settlement values.
Asset retirement obligations accretion expense – Accretion expense is the expensing of the changes in value of our ARO as a result of the passage of time over the estimated productive life of the related assets as the discounted liabilities are accreted to their expected settlement values.
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations is based on, and should be read in conjunction with Part I, Item 1 Business, Item 2 Properties , Item 1A Risk Factors and Item 7A Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk and with Part II, Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data in this Form 10-K.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations is based on, and should be read in conjunction with Part I, Item 1. Business , Item 2. Properties , Item 1A. Risk Factors and Item 7A.
Business Overview W&T is an independent oil and natural gas producer, active in the exploration, development and acquisition of oil and natural gas properties in the Gulf of Mexico. As of December 31, 2022, we held working interests in 47 offshore producing fields in federal and state waters (45 producing fields and 2 capable of producing).
Business Overview We are an independent oil and natural gas producer, active in the exploration, development and acquisition of oil and natural gas properties in the Gulf of Mexico. As of December 31, 2023, we held working interests in 53 offshore producing fields in federal and state waters (which include 44 fields in federal waters and nine in state waters).
On a per Boe basis, lease operating expenses increased to $15.35 per Boe during 2022 compared to $12.55 per Boe during 2021. On a component basis, base lease operating expenses increased $35.1 million, workover expenses increased $8.2 million and facilities maintenance expenses increased $11.8 million. These increases were partially offset by a decrease of $5.4 million in hurricane repairs.
On a per Boe basis, lease operating expenses increased to $20.24 per Boe during 2023 compared to $15.35 per Boe during 2022. On a component basis, base lease operating expenses increased $15.2 million, workover expenses increased $9.7 million and facility maintenance expenses increased $8.7 million. These increases were partially offset by a decrease of $0.3 million in hurricane repairs.
As of December 31, 2022, the Company’s valuation allowance was $15.3 million. Liquidity and Capital Resources Liquidity Overview Our primary liquidity needs are to fund capital and operating expenditures and strategic acquisitions to allow us to replace our oil and natural gas reserves, repay and service outstanding borrowings, operate our properties and satisfy our AROs.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES Liquidity Overview Our primary liquidity needs are to fund capital and operating expenditures and strategic acquisitions to allow us to replace our oil and natural gas reserves, repay and service outstanding borrowings, operate our properties and satisfy our ARO.
The charge will be based on the prior year’s emissions, and the first fee payment will be in 2025 based on 2024 data.
The charge will be based on the prior year’s emissions, and the first fee payment will be in 2025 based on 2024 data. The methane emissions charge may increase our operating costs and adversely affect our business.
On February 8, 2023, we redeemed all of the 9.75% Senior Second Lien Notes outstanding at a redemption price of 100.000%, plus accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date.
The 11.75% Notes were issued at par and have a maturity date of February 1, 2026. In February 2023, we redeemed all of the 9.75% Notes outstanding at a redemption price of 100.000%, plus accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date.
See Financial Statements and Supplementary Data – Note 10 – Derivative Financial Instruments under Part II, Item 8 in this Form 10-K for additional information about our derivative activities.
Risk Factors and Financial Statements and Supplementary Data – Note 8 – Asset Retirement Obligations under Part II, Item 8 in this Form 10-K for additional information regarding our ARO.
For instance, the IRA specifically directs the Department of the Interior (”DOI”) to accept the highest bids received for Lease Sale 257 which was vacated by US District Court for the District of Columbia in January 2022 and move forward with Lease Sales 259 and 261 in the Gulf of Mexico by March 31, 2023 and September 30, 2023, respectively, notwithstanding the June 30, 2022 expiration of the 2017-2022 Outer Continental Shelf Oil and Gas Leasing Program.
District Court for the District of Columbia in January 2022, and move forward with Lease Sales 259 and 261 in the Gulf of Mexico, notwithstanding the June 30, 2022 expiration of the 2017-2022 Outer Continental Shelf Oil and Gas Leasing Program. Lease Sale 259 was held in March 2023, and Lease Sale 261 was held in December 2023.
Our cash flows are materially impacted by the prices of commodities we produce (crude oil and natural gas, and the NGLs extracted from the natural gas).
Business Outlook Our cash flows are materially impacted by the prices of commodities we produce (oil, NGLs and natural gas). During 2023, commodity prices experienced significant declines from those experienced during 2022.
For 2022 and 2021, the annual effective tax rate was 18.8% and 16.3%, respectively, and the rates differed from the federal statutory rate of 21% primarily due to adjustments in the valuation allowance and the impact of state income taxes.
In 2023, the rate differed from the federal statutory rate of 21% primarily due to adjustments in the valuation allowance, compensation adjustments and the impact of state income taxes. In 2022, the rate differed from the federal statutory rate primarily due to adjustments in the valuation allowance and the impact of state income taxes.
The Company also holds prices and costs constant over the life of the reserves, even though actual prices and costs of oil and natural gas are often volatile and may change from period to period. We did not have any ceiling test impairments in 2022, 2021 or 2020. Oil and Natural Gas Reserve Quantities.
We also hold prices and costs constant over the life of the reserves, even though actual prices and costs of oil and natural gas are often volatile and may change from period to period.
Reserve quantities and the related estimates of future net cash flows affect our periodic calculations of DD&A and impairment assessment of our oil and natural gas properties.
We did not have any ceiling test impairments in 2023, 2022 or 2021. 57 Table of Contents Oil and Natural Gas Reserve Quantities Reserve quantities and the related estimates of future net cash flows affect our periodic calculations of DD&A and impairment assessment of our oil and natural gas properties.
In addition, the Federal Reserve has tightened monetary policy by approving a series of increases to the Federal Funds Rate and signaled that the Federal Reserve would continue to take necessary action to bring inflation down and to ensure price stability, including further rate increases, which could have the effects of raising the cost of capital and depressing economic growth, either or both of which could hurt our business.
Although the Federal Reserve has stated that they will begin reducing the benchmark rate in 2024, if inflation were to continue to rise, it is possible the Federal Reserve would continue to take action they deem necessary to bring inflation down and to ensure price stability, including further rate increases, which could have the effects of raising the cost of capital and depressing economic growth, either or both of which could negatively impact our business.
In addition, the prices of goods and services used in our business can vary and impact our cash flows. As a result, we cannot accurately predict future commodity prices, therefore, we cannot determine with any degree of certainty what effect increases or decreases in these prices will have on our drilling program, production volumes or revenues.
As a result, we cannot accurately predict future commodity prices, therefore, we cannot determine with any degree of certainty what effect increases or decreases in these prices will have on our drilling program, production volumes or revenues. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (“EIA”) published its latest Short-Term Energy Outlook in February 2024 .
The Term Loan is non-recourse to the Company and its subsidiaries other than the Subsidiary Borrowers (and the subsidiary that owns the equity of the Subsidiary Borrowers), and is not secured by any assets other than first lien security interests in the equity in the Borrowers and a first lien mortgage security interest and mortgages on certain assets of the Subsidiary Borrowers.
The Term Loan is non-recourse to us and our subsidiaries other than the Subsidiary Borrowers (and the subsidiary that owns the equity of the Subsidiary Borrowers) and is not secured by any assets other than first lien security interests in the equity in the Borrowers and a first lien mortgage security interest and mortgages on certain assets of the Subsidiary Borrowers. 11.75% Senior Second Lien Notes due 2026 – As of December 31, 2023, we had $275.0 million in aggregate principal amount of our 11.75% Notes issued and outstanding.
During the year ended December 31, 2021, the $175.3 million derivative loss recorded for crude oil and natural gas derivative contracts consisted of $92.6 million in realized losses on settled contracts and premium payments and $82.8 million of unrealized losses from the decrease in the fair value of open oil and natural gas contracts.
During 2022, the $85.5 million derivative loss recorded for oil and natural gas derivative contracts consisted of $125.1 million of premium payments and realized losses on settled contracts and $39.6 million of unrealized gain, net from the increase in fair value of open contracts.
These capitalized amounts include the internal costs directly related to acquisition, development and exploration activities, asset retirement costs, and capitalized interest.
Under this method, substantially all costs incurred in connection with the acquisition, development and exploration of oil and natural gas reserves are capitalized. These capitalized amounts include the internal costs directly related to acquisition, development and exploration activities, asset retirement costs, and capitalized interest.
Deferred Production – Our oil, NGLs and natural gas production is significantly affected by unplanned production downtime caused by events outside of our control and create uncertainties in our financial condition, cash flow and results of operations. Such events include third party downtime associated with non-operated properties and the transportation, gathering or processing of production and weather events.
Deferred Production – Our oil, NGLs and natural gas production is significantly affected by both planned and unplanned production downtime caused by events such as planned repairs and upgrades, third-party downtime associated with non-operated properties, the transportation, gathering or processing of production and weather events. For 2023, we estimate deferred production was approximately 2,541 MBoe.
At December 31, 2022, the Company’s ceiling test computation was based on SEC pricing of $91.50 per Bbl of oil, $41.92 per Bbl of NGLs and $6.85 per Mcf of natural gas.
At December 31, 2023, our ceiling test computation was based on SEC pricing of $78.21 per Bbl of oil and $2.64 per Mcf of natural gas.
We have historically increased our reserves and production through acquisitions, our drilling program, and other projects that optimize production on existing wells. Our production increased 5.1% in 2022 from the prior year. Our proved reserves increased by 7.7 MMBoe in 2022, primarily due to the significant increase in commodity prices in 2022 as compared to 2021.
Although we have historically increased our reserves and production through acquisitions, our drilling program, and other projects that optimize production on existing wells, our production decreased 13% in 2023 from the prior year.
Other Income and Expense The following table presents the components of other income and expense for the periods presented and corresponding changes: Year Ended December 31, 2022 2021 Change (In thousands) Other income and expenses: Derivative loss $ 85,533 $ 175,313 $ (89,780) Interest expense, net 69,441 70,049 (608) Other expense (income), net 14,295 (6,165) 20,460 Income tax expense (benefit) 53,660 (8,057) 61,717 51 Table of Contents Derivative loss – During the year ended December 31, 2022, the $85.5 million derivative loss recorded for crude oil and natural gas derivative contracts consists of $125.1 million of realized losses on settled contracts and premium payments and $39.6 million of unrealized gain, net from the increase in fair value of open contracts.
Other Income and Expense The following table presents the components of other income and expense for the periods presented and corresponding changes (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2023 2022 Change Derivative (gain) loss, net $ (54,759) $ 85,533 $ (140,292) Interest expense, net 44,689 69,441 (24,752) Other expense, net 5,621 14,295 (8,674) Income tax expense 18,345 53,660 (35,315) Derivative (gain) loss – During 2023, the $54.8 million derivative gain consisted of $4.1 million of realized losses on settled contracts and $58.9 million of unrealized gain, net, from the increase in the fair value of the open contracts.
The following discussion and analysis includes forward-looking statements that reflect our plans, estimates and beliefs. Our actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk and with Part 1I, Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data and other financial information appearing elsewhere in this 2023 Form 10-K. The following discussion and analysis includes forward-looking statements that reflect our plans, estimates and beliefs. Our actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements.
We hedge a portion of our commodity price risk to mitigate the impact of price volatility on our business. See Financial Statements and Supplementary Data – Note 10 – Derivative Financial Instruments , under Part II, Item 8, of this Annual Report for additional information regarding our commodity derivative positions as of December 31, 2022.
See Financial Statements and Supplementary Data – Note 4 – Derivative Financial Instruments , under Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for additional information regarding our commodity derivative positions as of December 31, 2023. A prolonged period of weak commodity prices may create uncertainties in our financial condition and results of operations.
Operating Expenses The following table presents information regarding costs and expenses and selected average costs and expenses per Boe sold for the periods presented and corresponding changes: Year Ended December 31, 2022 2021 Change Operating expenses: Lease operating expenses $ 224,414 $ 174,582 $ 49,832 Gathering, transportation and production taxes 35,128 27,919 7,209 Depreciation, depletion, amortization and accretion 133,630 113,447 20,183 General and administrative expenses 73,747 52,400 21,347 Total operating expenses $ 466,919 $ 368,348 $ 98,571 Average per Boe ($/Boe): Lease operating expenses $ 15.35 $ 12.55 $ 2.80 Gathering, transportation and production taxes 2.40 2.00 0.40 DD&A 9.14 8.15 0.99 G&A expenses 5.04 3.77 1.27 Operating expenses $ 31.93 $ 26.47 $ 5.46 Lease operating expenses – Lease operating expenses include the expense of operating and maintaining our wells, platforms and other infrastructure primarily in the Gulf of Mexico.
Operating Expenses The following table presents information regarding costs and expenses and selected average costs and expenses per Boe sold for the periods presented and corresponding changes (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2023 2022 Change Operating expenses: Lease operating expenses $ 257,676 $ 224,414 $ 33,262 Gathering, transportation and production taxes 26,250 35,128 (8,878) Depreciation, depletion and amortization 114,677 107,122 7,555 Asset retirement obligations accretion expense 29,018 26,508 2,510 General and administrative expenses 75,541 73,747 1,794 Total operating expenses $ 503,162 $ 466,919 $ 36,243 Average per Boe ($/Boe): Lease operating expenses $ 20.24 $ 15.35 $ 4.89 Gathering, transportation and production taxes 2.06 2.40 (0.34) Depreciation, depletion and amortization 9.01 7.33 1.68 Asset retirement obligations accretion expense 2.28 1.81 0.47 General and administrative expenses 5.93 5.04 0.89 Total operating expenses $ 39.52 $ 31.93 $ 7.59 Lease operating expenses – Lease operating expenses include the expense of operating and maintaining our wells, platforms and other infrastructure primarily in the Gulf of Mexico.
The following table presents our sources of revenue as a percentage of total revenue: Year Ended December 31, 2022 2021 Oil 56.9 % 59.1 % NGLs 6.2 % 7.9 % Natural gas 35.2 % 31.1 % Other 1.7 % 1.9 % 48 Table of Contents The information below provides a discussion of, and an analysis of significant variance in, our oil, natural gas and NGL revenues, production volumes and average sales prices for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021 (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2022 2021 Change Revenues: Oil $ 524,274 $ 329,557 $ 194,717 NGLs 56,964 44,343 12,621 Natural gas 323,831 173,749 150,082 Other 15,928 10,361 5,567 Total revenues $ 920,997 $ 558,010 $ 362,987 Production Volumes: Oil (MBbls) 5,602 4,998 604 NGLs (MBbls) 1,554 1,450 104 Natural gas (MMcf) 44,808 44,790 18 Total oil equivalent (MBoe) 14,624 13,913 711 Average daily equivalent sales (Boe/day) 40,067 38,118 1,949 Average realized sales prices: Oil ($/Bbl) $ 93.59 $ 65.94 $ 27.65 NGLs ($/Bbl) 36.66 30.59 6.07 Natural gas ($/Mcf) 7.23 3.88 3.35 Oil equivalent ($/Boe) 61.89 39.36 22.53 Oil equivalent ($/Boe), including realized commodity derivatives (1) 59.15 32.89 26.26 (1) Excludes the effects of premium amortization and write-offs. Changes in average sales prices and sales volumes caused the following changes to our oil, NGL and natural gas revenues between the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021 (in thousands): Price Volume Total Oil $ 154,890 $ 39,827 $ 194,717 NGLs 9,422 3,199 12,621 Natural gas 150,011 71 150,082 $ 314,323 $ 43,097 $ 357,420 Realized Prices on the Sale of Oil, NGLs and Natural Gas – Our average realized crude oil sales price differs from the WTI benchmark average crude price due primarily to premiums or discounts, crude oil quality adjustments, and volume weighting (collectively referred to as differentials).
The following table presents our sources of revenue as a percentage of total revenue: Year Ended December 31, 2023 2022 Oil 71.6 % 56.9 % NGLs 6.1 % 6.2 % Natural gas 20.7 % 35.2 % Other 1.6 % 1.7 % 46 Table of Contents The information below provides a discussion of, and an analysis of significant variance in, our oil, NGL and natural gas revenues, production volumes and average sales prices for 2023 and 2022 (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2023 2022 Change Revenues: Oil $ 381,389 $ 524,274 $ (142,885) NGLs 32,446 56,964 (24,518) Natural gas 110,158 323,831 (213,673) Other 8,663 15,928 (7,265) Total revenues $ 532,656 $ 920,997 $ (388,341) Production Volumes: Oil (MBbls) 5,050 5,602 (552) NGLs (MBbls) 1,415 1,554 (139) Natural gas (MMcf) 37,591 44,808 (7,217) Total oil equivalent (MBoe) 12,730 14,624 (1,894) Average daily equivalent sales (Boe/day) 34,877 40,067 (5,190) Average realized sales prices: Oil ($/Bbl) $ 75.52 $ 93.59 $ (18.07) NGLs ($/Bbl) 22.93 36.66 (13.73) Natural gas ($/Mcf) 2.93 7.23 (4.30) Oil equivalent ($/Boe) 41.16 61.89 (20.73) Oil equivalent ($/Boe), including realized commodity derivatives 40.84 59.15 (18.31) Changes in average sales prices and sales volumes caused the following changes to our oil, NGL and natural gas revenues between 2023 and 2022 (in thousands): Price Volume Total Oil $ (91,250) $ (51,635) $ (142,885) NGLs (19,398) (5,120) (24,518) Natural gas (161,513) (52,160) (213,673) $ (272,161) $ (108,915) $ (381,076) Realized Prices on the Sale of Oil, NGLs and Natural Gas – Our average realized sales price for oil differs from the WTI average spot price primarily due to premiums or discounts, quality adjustments, location adjustments and volume weighting (collectively referred to as differentials).
Having been so designated, the Unrestricted Subsidiaries do not guarantee the 11.75% Senior Second Lien Notes and the liens on the assets sold to the Unrestricted Subsidiaries have been released under the Credit Agreement. The Unrestricted Subsidiaries are not bound by the covenants contained in the Credit Agreement or the Indenture.
Concurrently, we designated the Aquasition Entities as unrestricted subsidiaries under the Indenture (the “Unrestricted Subsidiaries”). Having been so designated, the Unrestricted Subsidiaries do not guarantee the 11.75% Notes. The Unrestricted Subsidiaries are not bound by the covenants contained in the indenture related to our 11.75% Notes.
The following table presents our investments in oil and gas properties and equipment for exploration, development, acquisitions and other leasehold costs: Year Ended December 31, 2022 2021 (In thousands) Exploration (1) $ 13,339 $ 18,273 Development (1) 20,390 9,478 Acquisitions of interests 51,474 661 Seismic and other 7,903 4,311 Investments in oil and gas property/equipment – accrual basis $ 93,106 $ 32,723 (1) Reported geographically in the subsequent table. 55 Table of Contents The following table presents our exploration and development capital expenditures geographically: Year Ended December 31, 2022 2021 (In thousands) Conventional shelf (1) $ 17,264 $ 7,872 Deepwater 16,465 19,879 Exploration and development capital expenditures – accrual basis $ 33,729 $ 27,751 (1) Includes exploration and development capital expenditures in Alabama state waters. The capital expenditures reported in the above two tables are included within Oil and natural gas properties and other, net on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
The following table presents our investments in oil and gas properties and equipment for exploration, development, acquisitions and other leasehold costs (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2023 2022 Exploration (1) $ 4,659 $ 13,339 Development (1) 35,356 20,390 Acquisitions of interests 27,384 51,474 Seismic and other 1,263 7,903 Investments in oil and gas property/equipment – accrual basis $ 68,662 $ 93,106 (1) Reported geographically in the subsequent table.