All financial figures
are in Canadian dollars ($ or C$) and all references to barrels are
per barrel of bitumen unless otherwise noted. The Corporation's
Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures are detailed in the Advisory
section of this news release. They include: cash operating netback,
bitumen realization net of transportation and storage expense,
operating expenses net of power revenue, energy operating costs net
of power revenue, non-energy operating costs, energy operating
costs, adjusted funds flow, free cash flow and net debt.
|
CALGARY,
AB, July 25, 2024 /CNW/ - MEG Energy
Corp. (TSX: MEG) ("MEG" or the "Corporation") reported its second
quarter 2024 operational and financial results. The Board of
Directors also declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.10 per share payable on October 15, 2024 to shareholders of record at the
close of business on September 17,
2024. All dividends paid by MEG are designated as eligible
dividends for Canadian federal income tax purposes.
"We are proud to declare MEG's inaugural dividend," said
Darlene Gates, President and CEO of
MEG Energy. "This achievement not only reflects our robust
financial health but also highlights MEG's maturation as a senior
Canadian oil producer. Our US$600
million net debt target will be achieved in the third
quarter of 2024 and capital returns to shareholders will rise to
100% of free cash flow through continued share buybacks and a
quarterly base dividend."
"We continued to see strong production volumes in the first half
of the year and expect volume growth through the remainder of the
year as new wells come online. The start-up of the Trans Mountain
Expansion ("TMX") Pipeline during the quarter is an industry
milestone which we expect will reduce long-standing transportation
bottlenecks, leading to narrower and less volatile Canadian
light:heavy oil differentials and improved netbacks and
profitability."
Second quarter 2024 highlights include:
- On July 25, 2024 the
Corporation's Board of Directors declared an inaugural quarterly
cash dividend of $0.10 per share,
payable on October 15, 2024 to
shareholders of record on September 17,
2024;
- The TMX Pipeline had a successful start-up in May 2024 and MEG began shipping AWB to Canada's
West Coast under its 20,000 barrels per day ("bbls/d") contracted
capacity arrangement which has led to narrower light:heavy oil
differentials, improved netbacks and lower anticipated future
differential volatility;
- Funds flow from operating activities ("FFO") and adjusted funds
flow ("AFF") of $354 million, or
$1.30 per share. Year-to-date FFO and
AFF totaled $683 million, or
$2.49 per share;
- Free cash flow ("FCF") of $231
million, after funding $123
million of capital expenditures. Year-to-date FCF totaled
$448 million after $235 million of capital expenditures;
- Debt repayment of US$53 million
(approximately $73 million) during
the second quarter of 2024 and $158
million (approximately $215
million) year-to-date;
- Net debt declined to US$634
million (approximately $868
million) as at June 30,
2024;
- Shareholder capital returns totaling $68
million through the repurchase and cancellation of 2.2
million shares at a weighted-average price of $30.39 per share. Year-to-date share repurchases
totaled 7.0 million shares, at a weighted-average price of
$28.05 per share, returning
$195 million to shareholders;
- Average bitumen production of 100,531 bbls/d at a 2.44
steam-oil ratio ("SOR"). Year-to-date bitumen production averaged
102,309 bbls/d;
- Bitumen realization after net transportation and storage
expense of $73.84 per barrel and
$66.55 per barrel year-to-date;
- Operating expenses net of power revenue of $6.62 per barrel. Power revenue offset 54% of
energy operating costs, resulting in energy operating costs net of
power revenue of $0.99 per barrel and
non-energy operating costs of $5.63
per barrel. Year-to-date operating expenses net of power revenue
were $6.49 per barrel, including
energy operating costs net of power revenue of $1.10 per barrel and non-energy operating costs
of $5.39 per barrel;
- The Corporation's 2024 operating and capital guidance remains
unchanged; and
- On July 2, 2024, MEG announced
the appointment of Michael
McAllister to its Board of Directors, effective July 1, 2024.
|
Six months
ended June 30
|
2024
|
2023
|
2022
|
($millions, except
as indicated)
|
2024
|
2023
|
Q2
|
Q1
|
Q4
|
Q3
|
Q2
|
Q1
|
Q4
|
Q3
|
Operational
results:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Bitumen production -
bbls/d
|
102,309
|
96,349
|
100,531
|
104,088
|
109,112
|
103,726
|
85,974
|
106,840
|
110,805
|
101,983
|
Steam-oil
ratio
|
2.40
|
2.25
|
2.44
|
2.37
|
2.28
|
2.28
|
2.25
|
2.25
|
2.22
|
2.39
|
Bitumen sales -
bbls/d
|
99,337
|
94,942
|
93,140
|
105,534
|
112,634
|
101,625
|
83,531
|
106,480
|
113,582
|
95,759
|
Benchmark
pricing:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
WTI -
US$/bbl
|
78.77
|
74.95
|
80.57
|
76.96
|
78.32
|
82.26
|
73.78
|
76.13
|
82.65
|
91.55
|
Differential - WTI:WCS
- Edmonton
US$/bbl
|
(16.46)
|
(20.02)
|
(13.61)
|
(19.31)
|
(21.89)
|
(12.91)
|
(15.16)
|
(24.88)
|
(25.89)
|
(19.86)
|
AWB - Edmonton -
US$/bbl
|
60.98
|
52.45
|
65.99
|
55.96
|
54.53
|
67.88
|
56.41
|
48.50
|
53.51
|
68.75
|
Financial
results:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Bitumen realization
after net
transportation & storage
expense(1)
$/bbl
|
66.55
|
49.69
|
73.84
|
60.10
|
63.52
|
84.75
|
57.64
|
43.40
|
54.75
|
74.75
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Non-energy operating
costs(2) - $/bbl
|
5.39
|
5.17
|
5.63
|
5.18
|
4.64
|
5.15
|
5.66
|
4.77
|
4.34
|
4.49
|
Energy operating costs
net of power
revenue(1) -
$/bbl
|
1.10
|
1.18
|
0.99
|
1.19
|
1.46
|
(0.04)
|
0.97
|
1.36
|
1.49
|
0.96
|
Operating expenses net
of power
revenue(1) -
$/bbl
|
6.49
|
6.35
|
6.62
|
6.37
|
6.10
|
5.11
|
6.63
|
6.13
|
5.83
|
5.45
|
Cash operating
netback(1) - $/bbl
|
43.34
|
37.89
|
47.14
|
39.99
|
38.65
|
58.64
|
42.38
|
34.32
|
43.89
|
62.63
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
General &
administrative expense -
$/bbl of bitumen production
volumes
|
2.08
|
1.90
|
1.98
|
2.18
|
1.89
|
1.73
|
1.85
|
1.94
|
1.62
|
1.72
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Royalties
|
290
|
89
|
162
|
128
|
186
|
181
|
58
|
31
|
54
|
66
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Funds flow from
operating activities
|
683
|
626
|
354
|
329
|
358
|
492
|
278
|
348
|
383
|
501
|
Per share,
diluted
|
2.49
|
2.15
|
1.30
|
1.19
|
1.27
|
1.71
|
0.96
|
1.19
|
1.28
|
1.63
|
Adjusted funds
flow(3)
|
683
|
552
|
354
|
329
|
358
|
492
|
278
|
274
|
401
|
496
|
Per share,
diluted(3)
|
2.49
|
1.90
|
1.30
|
1.19
|
1.27
|
1.71
|
0.96
|
0.94
|
1.34
|
1.61
|
Capital
expenditures
|
235
|
262
|
123
|
112
|
104
|
83
|
149
|
113
|
106
|
78
|
Free cash
flow(3)
|
448
|
290
|
231
|
217
|
254
|
409
|
129
|
161
|
295
|
418
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Debt repayments -
US$
|
158
|
126
|
53
|
105
|
128
|
68
|
40
|
86
|
150
|
262
|
Share repurchases -
C$
|
195
|
169
|
68
|
127
|
219
|
58
|
66
|
103
|
196
|
92
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Revenues
|
2,737
|
2,771
|
1,373
|
1,364
|
1,444
|
1,438
|
1,291
|
1,480
|
1,445
|
1,571
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net earnings
(loss)
|
234
|
217
|
136
|
98
|
103
|
249
|
136
|
81
|
159
|
156
|
Per share,
diluted
|
0.86
|
0.74
|
0.50
|
0.36
|
0.37
|
0.86
|
0.47
|
0.28
|
0.53
|
0.51
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Long-term debt,
including
current portion
|
954
|
1,382
|
954
|
1,015
|
1,124
|
1,323
|
1,382
|
1,466
|
1,581
|
1,803
|
Net debt(3)
- US$
|
634
|
994
|
634
|
687
|
730
|
885
|
994
|
1,020
|
1,026
|
1,193
|
(1)
|
Non-GAAP financial
measure - please refer to the Advisory section of this news
release.
|
(2)
|
Supplementary
financial measure - please refer to the Advisory section of this
news release.
|
(3)
|
Capital management
measure - please refer to the Advisory section of this news
release.
|
Financial Results
FFO and AFF increased to $354
million in the second quarter of 2024 from $278 million in the comparable 2023 period driven
mainly by a higher cash operating netback per barrel, increased
sales volumes and lower interest expense due to reduced debt
levels. Cash operating netback rose $4.76 per barrel to $47.14 per barrel in the second quarter of 2024,
mainly reflecting a higher bitumen realization after net
transportation and storage expense partially offset by higher
royalties.
Bitumen realization after net transportation and storage expense
rose to $73.84 per barrel in the
second quarter of 2024, from $57.64
per barrel in the same period of 2023, driven by a higher average
WTI benchmark price, narrower WTI:AWB differentials, lower diluent
expense and reduced net transportation and storage expense,
partially offset by a lower contribution to overall price
realization from USGC sales and marketing optimization
activities.
With the start-up of the TMX Pipeline, the Corporation began
shipping AWB to Canada's West Coast under its 20,000 bbls/d
contracted transportation capacity arrangement. As a result of the
expansion, pipeline egress from Western
Canada is unconstrained and light:heavy oil differentials
have narrowed with anticipated lower volatility relative to
historic levels.
FCF increased to $231 million in
second quarter of 2024, from $129
million in the comparable 2023 quarter, reflecting higher
AFF and lower capital expenditures.
Capital expenditures declined to $123
million in the second quarter of 2024 from $149 million in the same period of 2023,
reflecting a decrease in the scope and timing of planned turnaround
activities. The Corporation performed a major turnaround at the
Christina Lake Facility in the second quarter of 2023 while
turnaround activities in 2024 are reduced and spread more evenly
throughout the year. This decrease was partially offset by higher
planned well development and associated infrastructure spending
together with the onset of investment in moderate capacity growth
projects.
Net earnings remained flat at $136
million across the second quarters of 2024 and 2023 as
higher AFF in the second quarter of 2024 was offset by an
unrealized foreign exchange loss on long-term debt, higher
depletion and depreciation expense and increased deferred tax
expense.
Operating Results
Bitumen production in the second quarter of 2024 rose 17%, to
100,531 bbls/d at a 2.44 SOR, from 85,974 bbls/d at a 2.25 SOR in
the comparable 2023 period. The production volume increase
primarily reflects the impact of a major planned turnaround at the
Christina Lake Facility during the second quarter of 2023, whereas
turnaround activities in 2024 are reduced and spread more evenly
throughout the year. The higher SOR in the second quarter of 2024
primarily reflects the planned timing of injecting steam in new
well starts.
Non‐energy operating costs averaged $5.63 per barrel of bitumen sales in the second
quarter of 2024 representing a 1% decrease from the same quarter of
2023 reflecting higher bitumen sales volumes in the second quarter
of 2024 offset by an expected rise in labour costs, more
maintenance activity and an increase in treating chemical volumes
to support higher production.
Energy operating costs net of power revenue of $0.99 per barrel in the second quarter of 2024
were consistent with $0.97 per barrel
in the comparable 2023 period, as a decline in the realized power
price largely offset a weaker AECO natural gas price. Revenue from
the sale of excess power generated by the Corporation's
cogeneration facilities offset 54% and 75% of energy operating
costs in the second quarters of 2024 and 2023, respectively.
Debt Redemption and Share Repurchases
The $231 million of second quarter
2024 FCF was used to redeem debt, return capital to shareholders
and fund working capital requirements. The Corporation redeemed
US$53 million (approximately
$73 million) of outstanding 7.125%
senior unsecured notes at a redemption price of 101.8% and returned
$68 million to MEG shareholders
through the repurchase and cancellation of 2.2 million shares
at a weighted-average price of $30.39
per share.
The $448 million of FCF in the
first half of 2024 was used to redeem debt, return capital to
shareholders and fund working capital requirements. The Corporation
redeemed US$158 million
(approximately $215 million) of
outstanding 7.125% senior unsecured notes at a redemption price of
101.8% and returned $195 million to
MEG shareholders through the repurchase and cancellation of 7.0
million shares at a weighted-average price of $28.05 per share.
Capital Allocation Strategy
Approximately 50% of FCF was allocated to debt redemption in the
first half of 2024 with the remainder applied to share repurchases.
The Corporation exited the second quarter of 2024 with net debt of
US$634 million (approximately
$868 million) and when the
Corporation reaches its US$600
million net debt target, which is anticipated to occur in
the third quarter of 2024, 100% of FCF will be returned to
shareholders. The balance sheet strength and liquidity profile
supports enhanced distributions to shareholders with a continued
emphasis on share repurchases.
On July 25, 2024, MEG's Board of
Directors approved the initiation of a base dividend program under
which the Corporation intends to pay a cash dividend each quarter,
subject to Board of Directors' approval. MEG's new base dividend
program recognizes its high-quality 50-year 2P reserve life, low
production decline, and long-term sustaining break-even price
structure below US$50/bbl WTI. MEG
has matured into a leading pure play in situ thermal oil producer,
focused on delivering FCF and sustainable shareholder cash
distributions.
An inaugural cash dividend of $0.10 per share has been declared for payment on
October 15, 2024 to shareholders of
record on September 17, 2024. This
dividend equates to an approximate 1.5% annual yield at MEG's
current share price, a level that is positioned to grow through
disciplined capital allocation.
Declaration of dividends is at the sole discretion of the Board
of Directors and will continue to be evaluated on a quarterly
basis. Future declarations will be dependent on, among other
things, the prevailing business environment, MEG's financial and
operating results and financial condition, the need for funds to
finance ongoing operations or growth and other business conditions
which the Corporation's Board of Directors considers relevant.
New Member joins MEG Board of Directors
Earlier this month, we were pleased to welcome Michael McAllister to MEG's Board of Directors.
His extensive operations and development expertise will be of
significant benefit to MEG as we execute on our strategic
initiatives. Mr. McAllister, P.Eng., has 40 years of energy
industry experience, holding several executive roles with North
American oil and gas companies. He spent 20 years at Ovintiv Inc.
(formerly Encana Corporation) where, prior to his retirement in
2020, he served as President and he was responsible for the
company's operations, exploration, land, marketing, midstream and
corporate services. He also served as the company's Executive Vice
President and Chief Operating Officer and played a pivotal role
leading the company's transformation to a top-tier, liquids-focused
North American producer. Prior to that, Mr. McAllister held various
technical and leadership roles for Texaco
Canada and Imperial Oil Resources.
Mr. McAllister currently serves as a Director of ARC Resources
Ltd. and Mediterra Energy Corporation, and he was previously a
Governor with the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers.
Sustainability and Pathways
MEG, along with its Pathways Alliance peers, continues to
progress pre-work on the proposed foundational carbon capture and
storage ("CCS") project, which will transport CO2 via
pipeline from multiple oil sands facilities to be stored safely and
permanently underground in the Cold
Lake region of Alberta.
Regulatory applications were filed to the Alberta Energy Regulator
on March 22, 2024, seeking approvals
for the CO2 transportation network and storage hub. The
Pathways Alliance continues to advance detailed evaluations of the
proposed carbon storage hub and is working to obtain a carbon
sequestration agreement from the Alberta Government. In addition,
the Pathways Alliance continues to advance engineering work,
environmental field programs to minimize the project's
environmental disturbance, and consultations with Indigenous and
local communities along the proposed CO2 transportation
and storage network corridor. The Pathways Alliance continues to
work collaboratively with both the federal and Alberta Governments
on the necessary policy and co-financing frameworks required to
move the project forward. The federal government passed Bill C-59,
which received Royal Assent on June 20,
2024 and implemented an investment tax credit ("ITC") for
CCS projects for all sectors across Canada. In addition, the
Alberta Government announced an Alberta Carbon Capture Incentive
Program ("ACCIP"), which aims to help hard-to-abate industries by
providing a grant of 12% for new eligible CCS capital costs. ACCIP
is being designed to align with the federal CCS ITC and will be
finalized after the federal government legislates its CCS ITC and
related operating supports, such as contracts for difference. The
Pathways Alliance is evaluating these proposals.
Bill C-59 also implemented amendments to the Competition Act
related to public statements made by an entity regarding actions
taken to protect or restore the environment or mitigate the effects
of climate change. The amendments create significant uncertainty as
to how Canadian companies may publicly communicate about their
environmental and climate performance, and progress and impose
significant financial penalties for noncompliance. The Canadian
Competition Bureau has indicated that guidance regarding the
amendments will be provided but it has not been released to date.
As a result, MEG has temporarily removed certain voluntary public
disclosures from its website and other social media and is
temporarily suspending its 2030 and 2050 GHG emissions1
targets until such time as clarity is provided by the Canadian
Competition Bureau regarding the application and interpretation of
the new amendments. MEG remains fully committed to environmental
and climate performance and the work it is doing to reduce GHG
emissions and will continue to advance its initiatives
notwithstanding the cautionary steps it has taken with respect to
its environmental disclosure and climate-related targets.
Adjusted Funds Flow Sensitivity
MEG's production is comprised entirely of crude oil and AFF is
highly correlated with crude oil benchmark prices and light-heavy
oil differentials. The following table provides an annual
sensitivity estimate to the most significant market variables.
Variable
|
Range
|
2024 AFF
Sensitivity(1)(2) -
C$mm
|
WCS Differential
(US$/bbl)
|
+/-
US$1.00/bbl
|
+/- C$47mm
|
WTI
(US$/bbl)
|
+/-
US$1.00/bbl
|
+/- C$31mm
|
Bitumen Production
(bbls/d)
|
+/- 1,000
bbls/d
|
+/- C$16mm
|
Condensate
(US$/bbl)
|
+/-
US$1.00/bbl
|
+/- C$14mm
|
Exchange Rate
(C$/US$)
|
+/- $0.01
|
+/- C$10mm
|
Non-Energy Opex
(C$/bbl)
|
+/-
C$0.25/bbl
|
+/-
C$6mm
|
AECO Gas(3)
(C$/GJ)
|
+/-
C$0.50/GJ
|
+/- C$6mm
|
(1)
|
Each sensitivity is
independent of changes to other variables.
|
(2)
|
Assumes mid point of
2024 production guidance, US$75.00/bbl WTI, US$16.25/bbl WTI:WCS
Edmonton discount, US$1.50/bbl WCS:AWB Edmonton discount,
US$7.75/bbl WTI:AWB Gulf Coast discount, C$1.35/US$ F/X rate,
condensate purchased at 100% of WTI and one bbl of bitumen per 1.42
bbls of blend sales (1.42 blend ratio).
|
(3)
|
Assumes 1.4 GJ/bbl
of bitumen, 65% of 160 MW of power generation sold externally and a
25.0 GJ/MWh heat rate.
|
________________________
|
1
|
Scope 1 and 2 GHG
Emissions
|
Conference Call
A conference call will be held to review MEG's second quarter
2024 operating and financial results at 6:30
a.m. Mountain Time (8:30 a.m. Eastern
Time) on July 26, 2024. To
participate, please dial the North American toll-free number
1-888-390-0546, or the international call number
1-416-764-8688.
A recording of the call will be available by 12 p.m. Mountain Time (2
p.m. Eastern Time) on the same day at
https://www.megenergy.com/investors/presentations-events/.
ADVISORY
Basis of Presentation
MEG prepares its financial statements in accordance with
International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the
International Accounting Standards Board ("IFRS Accounting
Standards") and presents financial results in Canadian dollars ($
or C$), which is the Corporation's functional currency.
Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures
Certain financial measures in this news release are non-GAAP
financial measures or ratios, supplementary financial measures and
capital management measures. These measures are not defined by IFRS
and, therefore, may not be comparable to similar measures provided
by other companies. These non-GAAP and other financial measures
should not be considered in isolation or as an alternative for
measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS.
Adjusted Funds Flow and Free Cash Flow
Adjusted funds flow and free cash flow are capital management
measures and are defined in the Corporation's consolidated
financial statements. Adjusted funds flow and free cash flow are
presented to assist management and investors in analyzing operating
performance and cash flow generating ability. Funds flow from
operating activities is an IFRS measure in the Corporation's
consolidated statement of cash flow. Adjusted funds flow is
calculated as funds flow from operating activities excluding items
not considered part of ordinary continuing operating results. By
excluding non-recurring adjustments, the adjusted funds flow
measure provides a meaningful metric for management and investors
by establishing a clear link between the Corporation's cash flows
and cash operating netback. Free cash flow is presented to assist
management and investors in analyzing performance by the
Corporation as a measure of financial liquidity and the capacity of
the business to repay debt and return capital to shareholders. Free
cash flow is calculated as adjusted funds flow less capital
expenditures.
The following table reconciles FFO to AFF to FCF:
|
Three months ended
June 30
|
Six months ended
June 30
|
($millions)
|
2024
|
2023
|
2024
|
2023
|
Funds flow from
operating activities
|
$
354
|
$
278
|
$
683
|
$
626
|
Adjustments:
|
|
|
|
|
Impact of cash-settled
SBC units subject to equity price
risk management
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
13
|
Realized equity price
risk management gain
|
—
|
—
|
—
|
(87)
|
Adjusted funds
flow
|
354
|
278
|
683
|
552
|
Capital
expenditures
|
(123)
|
(149)
|
(235)
|
(262)
|
Free cash
flow
|
$
231
|
$
129
|
$
448
|
$
290
|
Net Debt
Net debt is a capital management measure and is defined in the
Corporation's consolidated financial statements. Net debt is an
important measure used by management to analyze leverage and
liquidity. Net debt is calculated as long-term debt plus current
portion of long-term debt less cash and cash equivalents.
The following table reconciles the Corporation's current and
long-term debt to net debt:
As at
|
June 30,
2024
|
December 31,
2023
|
Long-term
debt
|
$
954
|
$
1,124
|
Cash and cash
equivalents
|
(86)
|
(160)
|
Net debt -
C$
|
$
868
|
$
964
|
Net debt -
US$
|
$
634
|
$
730
|
Cash Operating Netback
Cash operating netback is a non-GAAP financial measure, or ratio
when expressed on a per barrel basis. Its terms are not defined by
IFRS and, therefore, may not be comparable to similar measures
provided by other companies. This non-GAAP financial measure should
not be considered in isolation or as an alternative for measures of
performance prepared in accordance with IFRS.
Cash operating netback is a financial measure widely used in the
oil and gas industry as a supplemental measure of a company's
efficiency and its ability to generate cash flow for debt
repayment, capital expenditures, or other uses. The per barrel
calculation of cash operating netback is based on bitumen sales
volumes.
Revenues is an IFRS measure in the Corporation's consolidated
statement of earnings and comprehensive income which is the most
directly comparable primary financial statement measure to cash
operating netback. A reconciliation from revenues to cash operating
netback has been provided below:
|
Three months ended
June 30
|
Six months ended
June 30
|
($millions)
|
2024
|
2023
|
2024
|
2023
|
Revenues
|
$
1,373
|
$
1,291
|
$
2,737
|
$
2,771
|
Diluent
expense
|
(412)
|
(363)
|
(868)
|
(861)
|
Transportation and
storage expense
|
(147)
|
(152)
|
(277)
|
(295)
|
Purchased
product
|
(341)
|
(373)
|
(645)
|
(787)
|
Operating
expenses
|
(66)
|
(73)
|
(152)
|
(172)
|
Realized gain (loss) on
commodity risk management
|
(8)
|
(7)
|
(12)
|
(5)
|
Cash operating
netback
|
$
399
|
$
323
|
$
783
|
$
651
|
Blend Sales and Bitumen Realization
Blend sales and bitumen realization are non-GAAP financial
measures, or ratios when expressed on a per barrel basis, and are
used as a measure of the Corporation's marketing strategy by
isolating petroleum revenue and costs associated with its produced
and purchased products and excludes royalties. Their terms are not
defined by IFRS and, therefore, may not be comparable to similar
measures provided by other companies. These non-GAAP financial
measures should not be considered in isolation or as an alternative
for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. Blend
sales per barrel is based on blend sales volumes and bitumen
realization per barrel is based on bitumen sales volumes.
Revenues is an IFRS measure in the Corporation's consolidated
statement of earnings and comprehensive income, which is the most
directly comparable primary financial statement measure to blend
sales and bitumen realization. A reconciliation from revenues to
blend sales and bitumen realization has been provided below:
|
Three months ended
June 30
|
Six months ended
June 30
|
|
2024
|
2023
|
2024
|
2023
|
($millions, except
as indicated)
|
|
$/bbl
|
|
$/bbl
|
|
$/bbl
|
|
$/bbl
|
Revenues
|
$
1,373
|
|
$
1,291
|
|
$
2,737
|
|
$
2,771
|
|
Power and
transportation revenue
|
(10)
|
|
(24)
|
|
(36)
|
|
(65)
|
|
Royalties
|
162
|
|
58
|
|
290
|
|
89
|
|
Petroleum
revenue
|
1,525
|
|
1,325
|
|
2,991
|
|
2,795
|
|
Purchased
product
|
(341)
|
|
(373)
|
|
(645)
|
|
(787)
|
|
Blend sales
|
1,184
|
$
98.02
|
952
|
$
87.81
|
2,346
|
$
90.30
|
2,008
|
$
81.22
|
Diluent
expense
|
(412)
|
(6.91)
|
(363)
|
(10.27)
|
(868)
|
(8.50)
|
(861)
|
(14.48)
|
Bitumen
realization
|
$ 772
|
$
91.11
|
$ 589
|
$
77.54
|
$
1,478
|
$
81.80
|
$
1,147
|
$
66.74
|
Net Transportation and Storage Expense
Net transportation and storage expense is a non-GAAP financial
measure, or ratio when expressed on a per barrel basis. Its terms
are not defined by IFRS and, therefore may not be comparable to
similar measures provided by other companies. This non-GAAP
financial measure should not be considered in isolation or as an
alternative for measures of performance prepared in accordance with
IFRS. Per barrel amounts are based on bitumen sales volumes.
It is used as a measure of the Corporation's marketing strategy
by focusing on maximizing the realized AWB sales price after
transportation and storage expense by utilizing its network of
pipeline and storage facilities to optimize market access.
Transportation and storage expense is an IFRS measure in the
Corporation's consolidated statements of earnings and comprehensive
income.
Power and transportation revenue is an IFRS measure in the
Corporation's consolidated statement of earnings and comprehensive
income, which is the most directly comparable primary financial
statement measure to transportation revenue. A reconciliation from
power and transportation revenue to transportation revenue has been
provided below.
|
Three months ended
June 30
|
Six months ended
June 30
|
|
2024
|
2023
|
2024
|
2023
|
($millions, except
as indicated)
|
|
$/bbl
|
|
$/bbl
|
|
$/bbl
|
|
$/bbl
|
Transportation and
storage expense
|
$
(147)
|
$
(17.34)
|
$
(152)
|
$ (20.01)
|
$
(277)
|
$
(15.32)
|
$
(295)
|
$ (17.15)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Power and
transportation revenue
|
$
10
|
|
$
24
|
|
$
36
|
|
$ 65
|
|
Less power
revenue
|
(10)
|
|
(23)
|
|
(35)
|
|
(63)
|
|
Transportation
revenue
|
$
—
|
$
0.07
|
$
1
|
$
0.11
|
$
1
|
$
0.07
|
$
2
|
$
0.10
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net transportation and
storage expense
|
$
(147)
|
$
(17.27)
|
$
(151)
|
$ (19.90)
|
$
(276)
|
$
(15.25)
|
$
(293)
|
$ (17.05)
|
Bitumen Realization after Net Transportation and Storage
Expense
Bitumen realization after net transportation and storage expense
is a non-GAAP financial measure, or ratio when expressed on a per
barrel basis. Its terms are not defined by IFRS and, therefore may
not be comparable to similar measures provided by other companies.
This non-GAAP financial measure should not be considered in
isolation or as an alternative for measures of performance prepared
in accordance with IFRS. Per barrel amounts are based on bitumen
sales volumes.
It is used as a measure of the Corporation's marketing strategy
by focusing on maximizing the realized AWB sales price after net
transportation and storage expense by utilizing its network of
pipeline and storage facilities to optimize market access.
|
Three months ended
June 30
|
Six months ended
June 30
|
|
2024
|
2023
|
2024
|
2023
|
($millions, except
as indicated)
|
|
$/bbl
|
|
$/bbl
|
|
$/bbl
|
|
$/bbl
|
Bitumen
realization(1)
|
$
772
|
$
91.11
|
$
589
|
$ 77.54
|
$
1,478
|
$
81.80
|
$ 1,147
|
$ 66.74
|
Net transportation and
storage expense(1)
|
(147)
|
(17.27)
|
(151)
|
(19.90)
|
(276)
|
(15.25)
|
(293)
|
(17.05)
|
Bitumen realization
after net transportation
and storage
expense
|
$
625
|
$
73.84
|
$
438
|
$ 57.64
|
$
1,202
|
$
66.55
|
$
854
|
$ 49.69
|
(1)
|
Non-GAAP financial
measure as defined in this section.
|
Operating Expenses net of Power Revenue and Energy Operating
Costs net of Power Revenue
Operating expenses net of power revenue and Energy operating
costs net of power revenue are both non-GAAP financial measures, or
ratios when expressed on a per barrel basis. Their terms are not
defined by IFRS and, therefore, may not be comparable to similar
measures provided by other companies. These non-GAAP financial
measures should not be considered in isolation or as an alternative
for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. Per
barrel amounts are based on bitumen sales volumes.
Operating expenses net of power revenue is used as a measure of
the Corporation's cost to operate its facilities at the
Christina Lake project after
factoring in the benefits from selling excess power to offset
energy costs.
Energy operating costs net of power revenue is used to measure
the performance of the Corporation's cogeneration facilities to
offset energy operating costs.
Non-energy operating costs and energy operating costs are
supplementary financial measures as they represent portions of
operating expenses. Non-energy operating costs comprise
production-related operating activities and energy operating costs
reflect the cost of natural gas used as fuel to generate steam and
power. Per barrel amounts are based on bitumen sales volumes.
Operating expenses is an IFRS measure in the Corporation's
consolidated statement of earnings and comprehensive income. Power
and transportation revenue is an IFRS measure in the Corporation's
consolidated statement of earnings and comprehensive income which
is the most directly comparable primary financial statement measure
to power revenue. A reconciliation from power and transportation
revenue to power revenue has been provided below.
|
Three months ended
June 30
|
Six months ended
June 30
|
|
2024
|
2023
|
2024
|
2023
|
($millions, except
as indicated)
|
|
$/bbl
|
|
$/bbl
|
|
$/bbl
|
|
$/bbl
|
Non-energy operating
costs
|
$ (48)
|
$
(5.63)
|
$ (43)
|
$
(5.66)
|
$ (98)
|
$
(5.39)
|
$ (89)
|
$
(5.17)
|
Energy operating
costs
|
(18)
|
(2.13)
|
(30)
|
(3.92)
|
(54)
|
(2.99)
|
(83)
|
(4.84)
|
Operating
expenses
|
$ (66)
|
$
(7.76)
|
$ (73)
|
$
(9.58)
|
$
(152)
|
$
(8.38)
|
$
(172)
|
$
(10.01)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Power and
transportation revenue
|
$
10
|
|
$ 24
|
|
$
36
|
|
$ 65
|
|
Less transportation
revenue
|
—
|
|
(1)
|
|
(1)
|
|
(2)
|
|
Power
revenue
|
$
10
|
$
1.14
|
$ 23
|
$
2.95
|
$
35
|
$
1.89
|
$ 63
|
$
3.66
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating expenses net
of power revenue
|
$ (56)
|
$
(6.62)
|
$ (50)
|
$
(6.63)
|
$
(117)
|
$
(6.49)
|
$
(109)
|
$
(6.35)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Energy operating costs
net of power revenue
|
$
(8)
|
$
(0.99)
|
$ (7)
|
$
(0.97)
|
$ (19)
|
$
(1.10)
|
$ (20)
|
$
(1.18)
|
Forward-Looking Information
Certain statements contained in this news release may constitute
forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable
Canadian securities laws. These statements relate to future events
or MEG's future performance. All statements other than statements
of historical fact may be forward-looking statements. The use of
any of the words "anticipate", "continue", "estimate", "expect",
"may", "will", "project", "should", "believe", "plan", "intend",
"target", "potential" and similar expressions are intended to
identify forward-looking statements.
Forward-looking statements are often, but not always, identified
by such words. These statements involve known and unknown risks,
uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or
events to differ materially from those anticipated in such
forward-looking statements. In particular, and without limiting the
foregoing, this press release contains forward looking statements
with respect to: the Corporation's expectations of production
volume growth through the remainder of the year; the Corporation's
expectation that increased Canadian pipeline capacity will narrow
heavy oil differentials, reduce differential volatility and result
in improved netbacks and profitability; the Corporation's
anticipation of reaching its US$600
million debt target in the third quarter of 2024; the
Corporation's expectation of returning 100% of free cash flow to
shareholders upon reaching its US$600
million target; the Corporation's intention to pay a cash
dividend each quarter subject to Board of Directors approval and
the Corporation's expectation that this dividend is positioned to
grow through disciplined capital allocation; the Corporation's
expectations regarding the Pathways Alliance projects and
government support of these projects; and the Corporation's
adjusted funds flow sensitivity estimates.
Forward-looking information contained in this press release is
based on management's expectations and assumptions regarding, among
other things: future crude oil, bitumen blend, natural gas,
electricity, condensate and other diluent prices, differentials,
the reaction of heavy oil differentials in response to increased
Canadian pipeline capacity; the level of apportionment on the
Enbridge Mainline system, foreign exchange rates and interest
rates; the recoverability of MEG's reserves and contingent
resources; MEG's ability to produce and market production of
bitumen blend successfully to customers; future growth, results of
operations and production levels; future capital and other
expenditures; revenues, expenses and cash flow; operating costs;
reliability; continued liquidity and runway to sustain operations
through a prolonged market downturn; MEG's ability to reduce or
increase production to desired levels, including without negative
impacts to its assets; anticipated reductions in operating costs as
a result of optimization and scalability of certain operations;
anticipated sources of funding for operations and capital
investments; plans for and results of drilling activity; the
regulatory framework governing royalties, land use, taxes and
environmental matters, including federal and provincial
climate change policies, in which MEG conducts and will conduct its
business; and business prospects and opportunities. By its nature,
such forward-looking information involves significant known and
unknown risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results
to differ materially from those anticipated.
These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to,
risks and uncertainties related to: the oil and gas industry, for
example, the securing of adequate access to markets and
transportation infrastructure (including pipelines and rail) and
the commitments therein; the availability of capacity on the
electricity transmission grid; the uncertainty of reserve and
resource estimates; the uncertainty of estimates and projections
relating to production, costs and revenues; health, safety and
environmental risks, including public health crises and any related
actions taken by governments and businesses; legislative and
regulatory changes to, amongst other things, tax, land use, royalty
and environmental laws and production curtailment; the cost of
compliance with current and future environmental laws, including
climate change laws; risks relating to increased activism and
public opposition to fossil fuels and oil sands; the inability to
access government support to industry to assist in the achievement
of ESG goals; assumptions regarding and the volatility of commodity
prices, interest rates and foreign exchange rates; commodity price,
interest rate and foreign exchange rate swap contracts and/or
derivative financial instruments that MEG may enter into from time
to time to manage its risk related to such prices and rates; timing
of completion, commissioning, and start-up, of MEG's turnarounds;
the operational risks and delays in the development, exploration,
production, and the capacities and performance associated with
MEG's projects; MEG's ability to reduce or increase production to
desired levels, including without negative impacts to its assets;
MEG's ability to finance capital expenditures; MEG's ability to
maintain sufficient liquidity to sustain operations through a
prolonged market downturn; changes in credit ratings applicable to
MEG or any of its securities; actions taken by OPEC+ in relation to
supply management; the impact of the Russian invasion of
Ukraine and associated sanctions
on commodity prices; the availability and cost of labour and goods
and services required in the Corporation's operations, including
inflationary pressures; supply chain issues including
transportation delays; the cost and availability of equipment
necessary to our operations; and changes in general economic,
market and business conditions.
Although MEG believes that the assumptions used in such
forward-looking information are reasonable, there can be no
assurance that such assumptions will be correct. Accordingly,
readers are cautioned that the actual results achieved may vary
from the forward-looking information provided herein and that the
variations may be material. Readers are also cautioned that the
foregoing list of assumptions, risks and factors is not
exhaustive.
Further information regarding the assumptions and
risks inherent in the making of forward-looking statements can be
found in MEG's most recently filed Annual Information Form ("AIF"),
along with MEG's other public disclosure documents. Copies of the
AIF and MEG's other public disclosure documents are available
through the Company's website at www.megenergy.com/investors
and through the SEDAR+ website at www.sedarplus.ca.
The forward-looking information included in this news release is
expressly qualified in its entirety by the foregoing cautionary
statements. Unless otherwise stated, the forward-looking
information included in this news release is made as of the date of
this news release and MEG assumes no obligation to update or revise
any forward-looking information to reflect new events or
circumstances, except as required by law.
This news release contains future-oriented financial information
and financial outlook information (collectively, "FOFI") about
MEG's prospective results of operations including, without
limitation, the Corporation's AFF based on certain market
variables, all of which are subject to the same assumptions, risk
factors, limitations, and qualifications as set forth above.
Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation
of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of
preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, undue reliance
should not be placed on FOFI. MEG's actual results,
performance or achievement could differ materially from those
expressed in, or implied by, these FOFI, or if any of them do so,
what benefits MEG will derive therefrom. MEG has included the
FOFI in order to provide readers with a more complete perspective
on MEG's future operations, and the factors that could affect such
operations, and such information may not be appropriate for other
purposes. MEG disclaims any intention or obligation to update or
revise any FOFI statements, whether as a result of new information,
future events or otherwise, except as required by law.
About MEG
MEG is an energy company focused on in situ thermal oil
production in the southern Athabasca oil region of Alberta, Canada. MEG is actively developing
innovative enhanced oil recovery projects that utilize
steam-assisted gravity drainage extraction methods to improve the
economic recovery of oil. MEG transports and sells thermal oil
(AWB) to customers throughout North
America and internationally. MEG is a member of the Pathways
Alliance, a group of Canada's largest oil sands producers. MEG's
common shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the
symbol "MEG" (TSX: MEG).
Learn more at: www.megenergy.com
For further information, please contact:
Investor Relations
T 403.767.0515
E invest@megenergy.com
Media Relations
T 403.775.1131
E media@megenergy.com
SOURCE MEG Energy Corp.