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Derivatives and Hedging
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2013
Derivatives and Hedging

8. DERIVATIVES AND HEDGING

 

OBJECTIVES FOR UTILIZATION OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

 

We are exposed to certain market risks as a major power producer and marketer of wholesale electricity, coal and emission allowances. These risks include commodity price risk, interest rate risk, credit risk and, to a lesser extent, foreign currency exchange risk. These risks represent the risk of loss that may impact us due to changes in the underlying market prices or rates. We manage these risks using derivative instruments.

STRATEGIES FOR UTILIZATION OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS TO ACHIEVE OBJECTIVES

 

Risk Management Strategies

 

Our strategy surrounding the use of derivative instruments primarily focuses on managing our risk exposures, future cash flows and creating value utilizing both economic and formal hedging strategies. Our risk management strategies also include the use of derivative instruments for trading purposes, focusing on seizing market opportunities to create value driven by expected changes in the market prices of the commodities in which we transact. To accomplish our objectives, we primarily employ risk management contracts including physical and financial forward purchase-and-sale contracts and, to a lesser extent, OTC swaps and options. Not all risk management contracts meet the definition of a derivative under the accounting guidance for “Derivatives and Hedging.” Derivative risk management contracts elected normal under the normal purchases and normal sales scope exception are not subject to the requirements of this accounting guidance.

 

We enter into power, coal, natural gas, interest rate and, to a lesser degree, heating oil and gasoline, emission allowance and other commodity contracts to manage the risk associated with our energy business. We enter into interest rate derivative contracts in order to manage the interest rate exposure associated with our commodity portfolio. For disclosure purposes, such risks are grouped as “Commodity,” as they are related to energy risk management activities. We also engage in risk management of interest rate risk associated with debt financing and foreign currency risk associated with future purchase obligations denominated in foreign currencies. For disclosure purposes, these risks are grouped as “Interest Rate and Foreign Currency.” The amount of risk taken is determined by the Commercial Operations and Finance groups in accordance with our established risk management policies as approved by the Finance Committee of our Board of Directors.

 

The following table represents the gross notional volume of our outstanding derivative contracts as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012:

 Notional Volume of Derivative Instruments
           
    Volume  
    March 31, December 31, Unit of
   2013 2012 Measure
 Primary Risk Exposure (in millions) 
 Commodity:        
  Power   406   498 MWhs
  Coal   7   10 Tons
  Natural Gas   176   147 MMBtus
  Heating Oil and Gasoline   6   6 Gallons
  Interest Rate $ 214 $ 235 USD
           
 Interest Rate and Foreign Currency $ 874 $ 1,199 USD

Fair Value Hedging Strategies

 

We enter into interest rate derivative transactions as part of an overall strategy to manage the mix of fixed-rate and floating-rate debt. Certain interest rate derivative transactions effectively modify our exposure to interest rate risk by converting a portion of our fixed-rate debt to a floating rate. Provided specific criteria are met, these interest rate derivatives are designated as fair value hedges.

Cash Flow Hedging Strategies

 

We enter into and designate as cash flow hedges certain derivative transactions for the purchase and sale of power, coal, natural gas and heating oil and gasoline (“Commodity”) in order to manage the variable price risk related to the forecasted purchase and sale of these commodities. We monitor the potential impacts of commodity price changes and, where appropriate, enter into derivative transactions to protect profit margins for a portion of future electricity sales and fuel or energy purchases. We do not hedge all commodity price risk.

 

Our vehicle fleet and barge operations are exposed to gasoline and diesel fuel price volatility. We enter into financial heating oil and gasoline derivative contracts in order to mitigate price risk of our future fuel purchases. For disclosure purposes, these contracts are included with other hedging activities as “Commodity.” We do not hedge all fuel price risk.

 

We enter into a variety of interest rate derivative transactions in order to manage interest rate risk exposure. Some interest rate derivative transactions effectively modify our exposure to interest rate risk by converting a portion of our floating-rate debt to a fixed rate. We also enter into interest rate derivative contracts to manage interest rate exposure related to future borrowings of fixed-rate debt. Our forecasted fixed-rate debt offerings have a high probability of occurrence as the proceeds will be used to fund existing debt maturities and projected capital expenditures. We do not hedge all interest rate exposure.

 

At times, we are exposed to foreign currency exchange rate risks primarily when we purchase certain fixed assets from foreign suppliers. In accordance with our risk management policy, we may enter into foreign currency derivative transactions to protect against the risk of increased cash outflows resulting from a foreign currency's appreciation against the dollar. We do not hedge all foreign currency exposure.

ACCOUNTING FOR DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND THE IMPACT ON OUR FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

The accounting guidance for “Derivatives and Hedging” requires recognition of all qualifying derivative instruments as either assets or liabilities on the condensed balance sheets at fair value. The fair values of derivative instruments accounted for using MTM accounting or hedge accounting are based on exchange prices and broker quotes. If a quoted market price is not available, the estimate of fair value is based on the best information available including valuation models that estimate future energy prices based on existing market and broker quotes, supply and demand market data and assumptions. In order to determine the relevant fair values of our derivative instruments, we also apply valuation adjustments for discounting, liquidity and credit quality.

 

Credit risk is the risk that a counterparty will fail to perform on the contract or fail to pay amounts due. Liquidity risk represents the risk that imperfections in the market will cause the price to vary from estimated fair value based upon prevailing market supply and demand conditions. Since energy markets are imperfect and volatile, there are inherent risks related to the underlying assumptions in models used to fair value risk management contracts. Unforeseen events may cause reasonable price curves to differ from actual price curves throughout a contract's term and at the time a contract settles. Consequently, there could be significant adverse or favorable effects on future net income and cash flows if market prices are not consistent with our estimates of current market consensus for forward prices in the current period. This is particularly true for longer term contracts. Cash flows may vary based on market conditions, margin requirements and the timing of settlement of our risk management contracts.

 

According to the accounting guidance for “Derivatives and Hedging,” we reflect the fair values of our derivative instruments subject to netting agreements with the same counterparty net of related cash collateral. For certain risk management contracts, we are required to post or receive cash collateral based on third party contractual agreements and risk profiles. For the March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 condensed balance sheets, we netted $14 million and $7 million, respectively, of cash collateral received from third parties against short-term and long-term risk management assets and $29 million and $50 million, respectively, of cash collateral paid to third parties against short-term and long-term risk management liabilities.

 

The following tables represent the gross fair value impact of our derivative activity on our condensed balance sheets as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012:

Fair Value of Derivative Instruments
March 31, 2013
  
             Gross Amounts Gross Net Amounts of
   Risk Management     of Risk Amounts Assets/Liabilities
   Contracts Hedging Contracts Management Offset in the Presented in the
       Interest Rate Assets/ Statement of  Statement of
       and Foreign  Liabilities Financial Financial
Balance Sheet Location Commodity (a) Commodity (a) Currency (a) Recognized Position (b) Position (c)
                    
   (in millions)
Current Risk Management Assets $ 509 $ 39 $ 4 $ 552 $ (390) $ 162
Long-term Risk Management Assets   471   6   1   478   (137)   341
Total Assets   980   45   5   1,030   (527)   503
                    
Current Risk Management Liabilities   467   23   1   491   (397)   94
Long-term Risk Management Liabilities    329   2   6   337   (152)   185
Total Liabilities   796   25   7   828   (549)   279
                    
Total MTM Derivative Contract Net                  
 Assets (Liabilities) $ 184 $ 20 $ (2) $ 202 $ 22 $ 224
                    
Fair Value of Derivative Instruments
December 31, 2012
  
            Gross Amounts Gross Net Amounts of
   Risk Management     of Risk Amounts Assets/Liabilities
   Contracts Hedging Contracts Management Offset in the Presented in the
       Interest Rate Assets/Statement of  Statement of
       and Foreign LiabilitiesFinancial Financial
Balance Sheet Location Commodity (a) Commodity (a) Currency (a) Recognized Position (b) Position (c)
                    
   (in millions)
Current Risk Management Assets $ 589 $ 32 $ 3 $ 624 $ (433) $ 191
Long-term Risk Management Assets   528   5   1   534   (166)   368
Total Assets   1,117   37   4   1,158   (599)   559
                    
Current Risk Management Liabilities   546   43   35   624   (469)   155
Long-term Risk Management Liabilities    383   6   6   395   (181)   214
Total Liabilities   929   49   41   1,019   (650)   369
                    
Total MTM Derivative Contract Net                  
 Assets (Liabilities) $ 188 $ (12) $ (37) $ 139 $ 51 $ 190

(a)       Derivative instruments within these categories are reported gross. These instruments are subject to master netting agreements and are presented on the condensed balance sheets on a net basis in accordance with the accounting guidance for "Derivatives and Hedging."

(b)       Amounts primarily include counterparty netting of risk management and hedging contracts and associated cash collateral in accordance with the accounting guidance for "Derivatives and Hedging." Amounts also include de-designated risk management contracts.

(c)       There are no derivative contracts subject to a master netting arrangement or similar agreement which are not offset in the statement of financial position.

The table below presents our activity of derivative risk management contracts for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012:

 Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized on
 Risk Management Contracts
 For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2013 and 2012
        
 Location of Gain (Loss) 2013  2012
   (in millions)
 Utility Operations Revenues $ 8 $ 10
 Other Revenues   14   3
 Regulatory Assets (a)   2   (21)
 Regulatory Liabilities (a)   (6)   14
 Total Gain on Risk Management Contracts $ 18 $ 6

(a)       Represents realized and unrealized gains and losses subject to regulatory accounting treatment recorded as either current or noncurrent on the condensed balance sheets.

Certain qualifying derivative instruments have been designated as normal purchase or normal sale contracts, as provided in the accounting guidance for “Derivatives and Hedging.” Derivative contracts that have been designated as normal purchases or normal sales under that accounting guidance are not subject to MTM accounting treatment and are recognized on the condensed statements of income on an accrual basis.

 

Our accounting for the changes in the fair value of a derivative instrument depends on whether it qualifies for and has been designated as part of a hedging relationship and further, on the type of hedging relationship. Depending on the exposure, we designate a hedging instrument as a fair value hedge or a cash flow hedge.

 

For contracts that have not been designated as part of a hedging relationship, the accounting for changes in fair value depends on whether the derivative instrument is held for trading purposes. Unrealized and realized gains and losses on derivative instruments held for trading purposes are included in revenues on a net basis on the condensed statements of income. Unrealized and realized gains and losses on derivative instruments not held for trading purposes are included in revenues or expenses on the condensed statements of income depending on the relevant facts and circumstances. However, unrealized and some realized gains and losses in regulated jurisdictions for both trading and non-trading derivative instruments are recorded as regulatory assets (for losses) or regulatory liabilities (for gains) in accordance with the accounting guidance for “Regulated Operations.”

Accounting for Fair Value Hedging Strategies

 

For fair value hedges (i.e. hedging the exposure to changes in the fair value of an asset, liability or an identified portion thereof attributable to a particular risk), the gain or loss on the derivative instrument as well as the offsetting gain or loss on the hedged item associated with the hedged risk impacts Net Income during the period of change.

 

We record realized and unrealized gains or losses on interest rate swaps that qualify for fair value hedge accounting treatment and any offsetting changes in the fair value of the debt being hedged in Interest Expense on our condensed statements of income. During the three months ended March 31, 2013, we recognized losses of $1 million on our hedging instruments and offsetting gains of $1 million on our long-term debt. During the three months ended March 31, 2012, we recognized gains of $1 million on our hedging instruments and offsetting losses of $1 million on our long-term debt. During the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, hedge ineffectiveness was immaterial.

Accounting for Cash Flow Hedging Strategies

 

For cash flow hedges (i.e. hedging the exposure to variability in expected future cash flows attributable to a particular risk), we initially report the effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative instrument as a component of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on our condensed balance sheets until the period the hedged item affects Net Income. We recognize any hedge ineffectiveness in Net Income immediately during the period of change, except in regulated jurisdictions where hedge ineffectiveness is recorded as a regulatory asset (for losses) or a regulatory liability (for gains).

 

Realized gains and losses on derivative contracts for the purchase and sale of power, coal and natural gas designated as cash flow hedges are included in Revenues, Fuel and Other Consumables Used for Electric Generation or Purchased Electricity for Resale on our condensed statements of income, or in Regulatory Assets or Regulatory Liabilities on our condensed balance sheets, depending on the specific nature of the risk being hedged. During the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, we designated power, coal and natural gas derivatives as cash flow hedges.

 

We reclassify gains and losses on heating oil and gasoline derivative contracts designated as cash flow hedges from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on our condensed balance sheets into Other Operation expense, Maintenance expense or Depreciation and Amortization expense, as it relates to capital projects, on our condensed statements of income. During the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, we designated heating oil and gasoline derivatives as cash flow hedges.

 

We reclassify gains and losses on interest rate derivative hedges related to our debt financings from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on our condensed balance sheets into Interest Expense on our condensed statements of income in those periods in which hedged interest payments occur. During the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, we designated interest rate derivatives as cash flow hedges.

 

The accumulated gains or losses related to our foreign currency hedges are reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on our condensed balance sheets into Depreciation and Amortization expense on our condensed statements of income over the depreciable lives of the fixed assets designated as the hedged items in qualifying foreign currency hedging relationships. During the three months ended March 31, 2013, we did not designate any foreign currency derivatives as cash flow hedges. During the three months ended March 31, 2012, we designated foreign currency derivatives as cash flow hedges.

 

During the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, hedge ineffectiveness was immaterial or nonexistent for all cash flow hedge strategies disclosed above.

 

For details on designated, effective cash flow hedges included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on our condensed balance sheets and the reasons for changes in cash flow hedges for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, see Note 2.

Cash flow hedges included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on the condensed balance sheets as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 were:

 Impact of Cash Flow Hedges on the Condensed Balance Sheet
 March 31, 2013
             
        Interest Rate   
        and Foreign    
     Commodity Currency Total
     (in millions)
 Hedging Assets (a) $ 24 $ - $ 24
 Hedging Liabilities (a)   4   2   6
 AOCI Gain (Loss) Net of Tax   12   (26)   (14)
 Portion Expected to be Reclassified to Net         
  Income During the Next Twelve Months   10   (4)   6
             
 Impact of Cash Flow Hedges on the Condensed Balance Sheet
 December 31, 2012
             
        Interest Rate   
        and Foreign    
     Commodity Currency Total
     (in millions)
 Hedging Assets (a) $ 24 $ - $ 24
 Hedging Liabilities (a)   36   37   73
 AOCI Gain (Loss) Net of Tax   (8)   (30)   (38)
 Portion Expected to be Reclassified to Net         
  Income During the Next Twelve Months   (8)   (4)   (12)

(a)       Hedging Assets and Hedging Liabilities are included in Risk Management Assets and Liabilities on the condensed balance sheets.

The actual amounts that we reclassify from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) to Net Income can differ from the estimate above due to market price changes. As of March 31, 2013, the maximum length of time that we are hedging (with contracts subject to the accounting guidance for “Derivatives and Hedging”) our exposure to variability in future cash flows related to forecasted transactions is 30 months.

Credit Risk

 

We limit credit risk in our wholesale marketing and trading activities by assessing the creditworthiness of potential counterparties before entering into transactions with them and continuing to evaluate their creditworthiness on an ongoing basis. We use Moody's, Standard and Poor's and current market-based qualitative and quantitative data as well as financial statements to assess the financial health of counterparties on an ongoing basis.

 

When we use standardized master agreements, we may include collateral requirements. These master agreements facilitate the netting of cash flows associated with a single counterparty. Cash, letters of credit and parental/affiliate guarantees may be obtained as security from counterparties in order to mitigate credit risk. The collateral agreements require a counterparty to post cash or letters of credit in the event an exposure exceeds our established threshold. The threshold represents an unsecured credit limit which may be supported by a parental/affiliate guaranty, as determined in accordance with our credit policy. In addition, collateral agreements allow for termination and liquidation of all positions in the event of a failure or inability to post collateral.

Collateral Triggering Events

 

Under the tariffs of the RTOs and Independent System Operators (ISOs) and a limited number of derivative and non-derivative contracts primarily related to our competitive retail auction loads, we are obligated to post an additional amount of collateral if our credit ratings decline below investment grade. The amount of collateral required fluctuates based on market prices and our total exposure. On an ongoing basis, our risk management organization assesses the appropriateness of these collateral triggering items in contracts. AEP and its subsidiaries have not experienced a downgrade below investment grade. The following table represents: (a) our fair value of such derivative contracts, (b) the amount of collateral we would have been required to post for all derivative and non-derivative contracts if our credit ratings had declined below investment grade and (c) how much was attributable to RTO and ISO activities as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012:

    March 31, December 31,
    2013 2012
    (in millions)
 Liabilities for Derivative Contracts with Credit Downgrade Triggers $ 5 $ 7
 Amount of Collateral AEP Subsidiaries Would Have Been      
  Required to Post   37   32
 Amount Attributable to RTO and ISO Activities   35   31

In addition, a majority of our non-exchange traded commodity contracts contain cross-default provisions that, if triggered, would permit the counterparty to declare a default and require settlement of the outstanding payable. These cross-default provisions could be triggered if there was a non-performance event by Parent or the obligor under outstanding debt or a third party obligation in excess of $50 million. On an ongoing basis, our risk management organization assesses the appropriateness of these cross-default provisions in our contracts. The following table represents: (a) the fair value of these derivative liabilities subject to cross-default provisions prior to consideration of contractual netting arrangements, (b) the amount this exposure has been reduced by cash collateral we have posted and (c) if a cross-default provision would have been triggered, the settlement amount that would be required after considering our contractual netting arrangements as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012:

   March 31, December 31,
   2013 2012
   (in millions)
 Liabilities for Contracts with Cross Default Provisions Prior to Contractual      
  Netting Arrangements $ 366 $ 469
 Amount of Cash Collateral Posted   12   8
 Additional Settlement Liability if Cross Default Provision is Triggered   231   328
Appalachian Power Co [Member]
 
Derivatives and Hedging

8. DERIVATIVES AND HEDGING

 

OBJECTIVES FOR UTILIZATION OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

 

The Registrant Subsidiaries are exposed to certain market risks as major power producers and marketers of wholesale electricity, coal and emission allowances. These risks include commodity price risk, interest rate risk, credit risk and, to a lesser extent, foreign currency exchange risk. These risks represent the risk of loss that may impact the Registrant Subsidiaries due to changes in the underlying market prices or rates. AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, manages these risks using derivative instruments.

STRATEGIES FOR UTILIZATION OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS TO ACHIEVE OBJECTIVES

 

Risk Management Strategies

 

The strategy surrounding the use of derivative instruments primarily focuses on managing risk exposures, future cash flows and creating value utilizing both economic and formal hedging strategies. The risk management strategies also include the use of derivative instruments for trading purposes, focusing on seizing market opportunities to create value driven by expected changes in the market prices of the commodities in which AEPSC transacts on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries. To accomplish these objectives, AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, primarily employs risk management contracts including physical and financial forward purchase-and-sale contracts and, to a lesser extent, OTC swaps and options. Not all risk management contracts meet the definition of a derivative under the accounting guidance for “Derivatives and Hedging.” Derivative risk management contracts elected normal under the normal purchases and normal sales scope exception are not subject to the requirements of this accounting guidance.

 

AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, enters into power, coal, natural gas, interest rate and, to a lesser degree, heating oil and gasoline, emission allowance and other commodity contracts to manage the risk associated with the energy business. AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, enters into interest rate derivative contracts in order to manage the interest rate exposure associated with the Registrant Subsidiaries' commodity portfolio. For disclosure purposes, such risks are grouped as “Commodity,” as these risks are related to energy risk management activities. AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, also engages in risk management of interest rate risk associated with debt financing and foreign currency risk associated with future purchase obligations denominated in foreign currencies. For disclosure purposes, these risks are grouped as “Interest Rate and Foreign Currency.” The amount of risk taken is determined by the Commercial Operations and Finance groups in accordance with established risk management policies as approved by the Finance Committee of AEP's Board of Directors.

 

The following tables represent the gross notional volume of the Registrant Subsidiaries' outstanding derivative contracts as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012:

Notional Volume of Derivative Instruments
March 31, 2013
                    
Primary Risk Unit of               
Exposure Measure APCo I&M OPCo PSO SWEPCo
      (in thousands)
Commodity:                 
 Power MWhs   62,679   43,390   88,625   8   9
 Coal Tons   932   2,175   2,213   1,489   789
 Natural Gas MMBtus   8,213   5,676   11,613   -   -
 Heating Oil and                 
  Gasoline Gallons   1,177   580   1,386   589   724
 Interest Rate USD $ 22,108 $ 15,278 $ 31,259 $ - $ -
                    
Interest Rate and                 
 Foreign Currency USD $ - $ - $ - $ - $ -
                    
Notional Volume of Derivative Instruments
December 31, 2012
                    
Primary Risk Unit of               
Exposure Measure APCo I&M OPCo PSO SWEPCo
      (in thousands)
Commodity:                 
 Power MWhs   94,059   64,791   132,188   -   -
 Coal Tons   1,401   2,711   3,033   1,980   1,312
 Natural Gas MMBtus   10,077   6,922   14,163   -   -
 Heating Oil and                 
  Gasoline Gallons   1,050   532   1,260   616   585
 Interest Rate USD $ 24,146 $ 16,584 $ 33,934 $ - $ -
                    
Interest Rate and                 
 Foreign Currency USD $ - $ 200,000 $ - $ - $ -

Fair Value Hedging Strategies

 

AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, enters into interest rate derivative transactions as part of an overall strategy to manage the mix of fixed-rate and floating-rate debt. Certain interest rate derivative transactions effectively modify an exposure to interest rate risk by converting a portion of fixed-rate debt to a floating rate. Provided specific criteria are met, these interest rate derivatives are designated as fair value hedges.

Cash Flow Hedging Strategies

 

AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, enters into and designates as cash flow hedges certain derivative transactions for the purchase and sale of power, coal, natural gas and heating oil and gasoline (“Commodity”) in order to manage the variable price risk related to the forecasted purchase and sale of these commodities. Management monitors the potential impacts of commodity price changes and, where appropriate, enters into derivative transactions to protect profit margins for a portion of future electricity sales and fuel or energy purchases. The Registrant Subsidiaries do not hedge all commodity price risk.

 

The Registrant Subsidiaries' vehicle fleet is exposed to gasoline and diesel fuel price volatility. AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, enters into financial heating oil and gasoline derivative contracts in order to mitigate price risk of future fuel purchases. For disclosure purposes, these contracts are included with other hedging activities as “Commodity.” The Registrant Subsidiaries do not hedge all fuel price risk.

 

AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, enters into a variety of interest rate derivative transactions in order to manage interest rate risk exposure. Some interest rate derivative transactions effectively modify exposure to interest rate risk by converting a portion of floating-rate debt to a fixed rate. AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, also enters into interest rate derivative contracts to manage interest rate exposure related to future borrowings of fixed-rate debt. The forecasted fixed-rate debt offerings have a high probability of occurrence as the proceeds will be used to fund existing debt maturities and projected capital expenditures. The Registrant Subsidiaries do not hedge all interest rate exposure.

 

At times, the Registrant Subsidiaries are exposed to foreign currency exchange rate risks primarily when some fixed assets are purchased from foreign suppliers. In accordance with AEP's risk management policy, AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, may enter into foreign currency derivative transactions to protect against the risk of increased cash outflows resulting from a foreign currency's appreciation against the dollar. The Registrant Subsidiaries do not hedge all foreign currency exposure.

ACCOUNTING FOR DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND THE IMPACT ON THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

The accounting guidance for “Derivatives and Hedging” requires recognition of all qualifying derivative instruments as either assets or liabilities on the condensed balance sheet at fair value. The fair values of derivative instruments accounted for using MTM accounting or hedge accounting are based on exchange prices and broker quotes. If a quoted market price is not available, the estimate of fair value is based on the best information available including valuation models that estimate future energy prices based on existing market and broker quotes, supply and demand market data and assumptions. In order to determine the relevant fair values of the derivative instruments, the Registrant Subsidiaries also apply valuation adjustments for discounting, liquidity and credit quality.

 

Credit risk is the risk that a counterparty will fail to perform on the contract or fail to pay amounts due. Liquidity risk represents the risk that imperfections in the market will cause the price to vary from estimated fair value based upon prevailing market supply and demand conditions. Since energy markets are imperfect and volatile, there are inherent risks related to the underlying assumptions in models used to fair value risk management contracts. Unforeseen events may cause reasonable price curves to differ from actual price curves throughout a contract's term and at the time a contract settles. Consequently, there could be significant adverse or favorable effects on future net income and cash flows if market prices are not consistent with management's estimates of current market consensus for forward prices in the current period. This is particularly true for longer term contracts. Cash flows may vary based on market conditions, margin requirements and the timing of settlement of risk management contracts.

 

According to the accounting guidance for “Derivatives and Hedging,” the Registrant Subsidiaries reflect the fair values of derivative instruments subject to netting agreements with the same counterparty net of related cash collateral. For certain risk management contracts, the Registrant Subsidiaries are required to post or receive cash collateral based on third party contractual agreements and risk profiles. For the March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 condensed balance sheets, the Registrant Subsidiaries netted cash collateral received from third parties against short-term and long-term risk management assets and cash collateral paid to third parties against short-term and long-term risk management liabilities as follows:

    March 31, 2013 December 31, 2012
    Cash Collateral Cash Collateral Cash Collateral Cash Collateral
    Received Paid Received Paid
    Netted Against Netted Against Netted Against Netted Against
    Risk Management Risk Management Risk Management Risk Management
 Company Assets Liabilities Assets Liabilities
    (in thousands)
 APCo $ 1,837 $ 4,888 $ 1,262 $ 11,029
 I&M   1,270   3,378   867   7,576
 OPCo   2,598   6,912   1,774   15,500
 PSO   -   1   -   -
 SWEPCo   -   2   -   -

The following tables represent the gross fair value of the Registrant Subsidiaries' derivative activity on the condensed balance sheets as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012:

APCo                  
Fair Value of Derivative Instruments
March 31, 2013
                    
   Risk     Gross Amounts Gross Net Amounts of
   Management     of Risk Amounts Assets/Liabilities
   Contracts Hedging Contracts Management Offset in the Presented in the
        Interest Rate Assets/ Statement of Statement of
       and Foreign Liabilities Financial Financial
Balance Sheet Location Commodity (a) Commodity (a) Currency (a) Recognized Position (b) Position (c)
                    
   (in thousands)
Current Risk Management Assets $86,551 $1,189 $- $87,740 $(64,613) $23,127
Long-term Risk Management Assets  39,728  131  -  39,859  (15,843)  24,016
Total Assets  126,279  1,320  -  127,599  (80,456)  47,143
                    
Current Risk Management Liabilities  78,306  651  -  78,957  (66,909)  12,048
Long-term Risk Management Liabilities   29,230  132  -  29,362  (16,598)  12,764
Total Liabilities  107,536  783  -  108,319  (83,507)  24,812
                    
Total MTM Derivative Contract Net                  
 Assets (Liabilities) $18,743 $537 $- $19,280 $3,051 $22,331
                    
APCo                  
Fair Value of Derivative Instruments
December 31, 2012
                    
   Risk     Gross Amounts Gross Net Amounts of
   Management     of Risk Amounts Assets/Liabilities
   Contracts Hedging Contracts Management Offset in the Presented in the
        Interest Rate Assets/ Statement of Statement of
       and Foreign Liabilities Financial Financial
Balance Sheet Location Commodity (a) Commodity (a) Currency (a) Recognized Position (b) Position (c)
                    
   (in thousands)
Current Risk Management Assets $127,645 $338 $- $127,983 $(97,023) $30,960
Long-term Risk Management Assets  60,498  215  -  60,713  (26,353)  34,360
Total Assets  188,143  553  -  188,696  (123,376)  65,320
                    
Current Risk Management Liabilities  119,430  1,182  -  120,612  (103,914)  16,698
Long-term Risk Management Liabilities   47,281  424  -  47,705  (29,229)  18,476
Total Liabilities  166,711  1,606  -  168,317  (133,143)  35,174
                    
Total MTM Derivative Contract Net                  
 Assets (Liabilities) $21,432 $(1,053) $- $20,379 $9,767 $30,146

(a)       Derivative instruments within these categories are reported gross. These instruments are subject to master netting agreements and are presented on the condensed balance sheets on a net basis in accordance with the accounting guidance for "Derivatives and Hedging."

(b)       Amounts include counterparty netting of risk management and hedging contracts and associated cash collateral in accordance with the accounting guidance for "Derivatives and Hedging."

(c)       There are no derivative contracts subject to a master netting arrangement or similar agreement which are not offset in the statement of financial position.

The tables below present the Registrant Subsidiaries' activity of derivative risk management contracts for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012:

 Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized on
 Risk Management Contracts
 For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2013
  
 Location of Gain (Loss) APCo I&M OPCo PSO SWEPCo
     (in thousands)
 Electric Generation, Transmission and               
  Distribution Revenues $ 679 $ 4,947 $ 1,714 $ 47 $ 28
 Sales to AEP Affiliates   -   -   -   -   -
 Fuel and Other Consumables Used for               
  Electric Generation   -   -   -   -   -
 Regulatory Assets (a)   -   486   (1,205)   2,010   271
 Regulatory Liabilities (a)   (466)   (5,182)   -   1   96
 Total Gain (Loss) on Risk Management               
  Contracts $ 213 $ 251 $ 509 $ 2,058 $ 395
                   
 Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized on
 Risk Management Contracts
 For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2012
  
 Location of Gain (Loss) APCo I&M OPCo PSO SWEPCo
     (in thousands)
 Electric Generation, Transmission and               
  Distribution Revenues $ (327) $ 2,813 $ 8,493 $ (5) $ (51)
 Sales to AEP Affiliates   -   -   -   -   -
 Fuel and Other Consumables Used for               
  Electric Generation   -   -   -   -   -
 Regulatory Assets (a)   (3,481)   (3,110)   (3,131)   (5,201)   (6,727)
 Regulatory Liabilities (a)   6,409   6,726   -   27   21
 Total Gain (Loss) on Risk Management               
  Contracts $ 2,601 $ 6,429 $ 5,362 $ (5,179) $ (6,757)
                   
 (a) Represents realized and unrealized gains and losses subject to regulatory accounting treatment recorded as either current
  or noncurrent on the condensed balance sheets.

Certain qualifying derivative instruments have been designated as normal purchase or normal sale contracts, as provided in the accounting guidance for “Derivatives and Hedging.” Derivative contracts that have been designated as normal purchases or normal sales under that accounting guidance are not subject to MTM accounting treatment and are recognized on the condensed statements of income on an accrual basis.

 

The accounting for the changes in the fair value of a derivative instrument depends on whether it qualifies for and has been designated as part of a hedging relationship and further, on the type of hedging relationship. Depending on the exposure, management designates a hedging instrument as a fair value hedge or a cash flow hedge.

 

For contracts that have not been designated as part of a hedging relationship, the accounting for changes in fair value depends on whether the derivative instrument is held for trading purposes. Unrealized and realized gains and losses on derivative instruments held for trading purposes are included in revenues on a net basis on the condensed statements of income. Unrealized and realized gains and losses on derivative instruments not held for trading purposes are included in revenues or expenses on the condensed statements of income depending on the relevant facts and circumstances. However, unrealized and some realized gains and losses in regulated jurisdictions (APCo, I&M, PSO and SWEPCo) for both trading and non-trading derivative instruments are recorded as regulatory assets (for losses) or regulatory liabilities (for gains) in accordance with the accounting guidance for “Regulated Operations.”

Accounting for Fair Value Hedging Strategies

 

For fair value hedges (i.e. hedging the exposure to changes in the fair value of an asset, liability or an identified portion thereof attributable to a particular risk), the gain or loss on the derivative instrument as well as the offsetting gain or loss on the hedged item associated with the hedged risk impacts Net Income during the period of change.

 

The Registrant Subsidiaries record realized and unrealized gains or losses on interest rate swaps that qualify for fair value hedge accounting treatment and any offsetting changes in the fair value of the debt being hedged in Interest Expense on the condensed statements of income. During the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, the Registrant Subsidiaries did not designate any fair value hedging strategies.

Accounting for Cash Flow Hedging Strategies

 

For cash flow hedges (i.e. hedging the exposure to variability in expected future cash flows that is attributable to a particular risk), the Registrant Subsidiaries initially report the effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative instrument as a component of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on the condensed balance sheets until the period the hedged item affects Net Income. The Registrant Subsidiaries recognize any hedge ineffectiveness in Net Income immediately during the period of change, except in regulated jurisdictions where hedge ineffectiveness is recorded as a regulatory asset (for losses) or a regulatory liability (for gains).

 

Realized gains and losses on derivative contracts for the purchase and sale of power, coal and natural gas designated as cash flow hedges are included in Revenues, Fuel and Other Consumables Used for Electric Generation or Purchased Electricity for Resale on the condensed statements of income, or in Regulatory Assets or Regulatory Liabilities on the condensed balance sheets, depending on the specific nature of the risk being hedged. During the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, APCo, I&M and OPCo designated power, coal and natural gas derivatives as cash flow hedges.

 

The Registrant Subsidiaries reclassify gains and losses on heating oil and gasoline derivative contracts designated as cash flow hedges from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on the condensed balance sheets into Other Operation expense, Maintenance expense or Depreciation and Amortization expense, as it relates to capital projects, on the condensed statements of income. During the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, the Registrant Subsidiaries designated heating oil and gasoline derivatives as cash flow hedges.

 

The Registrant Subsidiaries reclassify gains and losses on interest rate derivative hedges related to debt financings from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on the condensed balance sheets into Interest Expense on the condensed statements of income in those periods in which hedged interest payments occur. During the three months ended March 31, 2013, I&M designated interest rate derivatives as cash flow hedges. During the three months ended March 31, 2012, I&M and SWEPCo designated interest rate derivatives as cash flow hedges.

 

The accumulated gains or losses related to foreign currency hedges are reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on the condensed balance sheets into Depreciation and Amortization expense on the condensed statements of income over the depreciable lives of the fixed assets designated as the hedged items in qualifying foreign currency hedging relationships. During the three months ended March 31, 2013, the Registrant Subsidiaries did not designate any foreign currency derivatives as cash flow hedges. During the three months ended March 31, 2012, SWEPCo designated foreign currency derivatives as cash flow hedges.

 

During the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, hedge ineffectiveness was immaterial or nonexistent for all of the hedge strategies disclosed above.

 

For details on designated, effective cash flow hedges included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on the condensed balance sheets and the reasons for changes in cash flow hedges for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, see Note 2.

Cash flow hedges included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on the condensed balance sheets as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 were:

 Impact of Cash Flow Hedges on the Registrant Subsidiaries’
 Condensed Balance Sheets
 March 31, 2013
  
    Hedging Assets (a) Hedging Liabilities (a) AOCI Gain (Loss) Net of Tax
      Interest Rate   Interest Rate   Interest Rate
      and Foreign    and Foreign    and Foreign
 Company Commodity Currency Commodity Currency Commodity Currency
    (in thousands)
 APCo $ 987 $ - $ 450 $ - $ 361 $ 2,330
 I&M   660   -   311   -   236   (17,206)
 OPCo   1,372   -   636   -   494   7,755
 PSO   61   -   1   -   44   6,270
 SWEPCo   73   -   2   -   51   (15,004)

    Expected to be Reclassified to   
    Net Income During the Next   
    Twelve Months   
        Maximum Term for
      Interest Rate Exposure to
      and Foreign  Variability of Future
 Company Commodity Currency Cash Flows
    (in thousands) (in months)
 APCo $ 363 $ (1,013)   21
 I&M   235   (1,640)   21
 OPCo   495   1,359   21
 PSO   41   759   21
 SWEPCo   49   (2,267)   21

 Impact of Cash Flow Hedges on the Registrant Subsidiaries’
 Condensed Balance Sheets
 December 31, 2012
  
    Hedging Assets (a) Hedging Liabilities (a) AOCI Gain (Loss) Net of Tax
      Interest Rate   Interest Rate   Interest Rate
      and Foreign    and Foreign    and Foreign
 Company Commodity Currency Commodity Currency Commodity Currency
    (in thousands)
 APCo $ 302 $ - $ 1,355 $ - $ (644) $ 2,077
 I&M   200   -   931   19,524   (446)   (19,647)
 OPCo   416   -   1,903   -   (912)   8,095
 PSO   25   -   -   -   21   6,460
 SWEPCo   24   -   -   -   22   (15,571)

    Expected to be Reclassified to 
    Net Income During the Next 
    Twelve Months 
      Interest Rate 
      and Foreign  
 Company Commodity Currency 
    (in thousands) 
 APCo $ (507) $ (1,013) 
 I&M   (355)   (1,600) 
 OPCo   (720)   1,359 
 PSO   21   759 
 SWEPCo   22   (2,267) 

(a)       Hedging Assets and Hedging Liabilities are included in Risk Management Assets and Liabilities on the condensed balance sheets.

 

The actual amounts reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) to Net Income can differ from the estimate above due to market price changes.

Credit Risk

 

AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, limits credit risk in their wholesale marketing and trading activities by assessing the creditworthiness of potential counterparties before entering into transactions with them and continuing to evaluate their creditworthiness on an ongoing basis. AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, uses Moody's, Standard and Poor's and current market-based qualitative and quantitative data as well as financial statements to assess the financial health of counterparties on an ongoing basis.

 

When AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, uses standardized master agreements, AEPSC may include collateral requirements. These master agreements facilitate the netting of cash flows associated with a single counterparty. Cash, letters of credit and parental/affiliate guarantees may be obtained as security from counterparties in order to mitigate credit risk. The collateral agreements require a counterparty to post cash or letters of credit in the event an exposure exceeds the established threshold. The threshold represents an unsecured credit limit which may be supported by a parental/affiliate guaranty, as determined in accordance with AEP's credit policy. In addition, collateral agreements allow for termination and liquidation of all positions in the event of a failure or inability to post collateral.

Collateral Triggering Events

 

Under the tariffs of the RTOs and Independent System Operators (ISOs) and a limited number of derivative and non-derivative contracts primarily related to competitive retail auction loads, the Registrant Subsidiaries are obligated to post an additional amount of collateral if certain credit ratings decline below investment grade. The amount of collateral required fluctuates based on market prices and total exposure. On an ongoing basis, AEP's risk management organization assesses the appropriateness of these collateral triggering items in contracts. The Registrant Subsidiaries have not experienced a downgrade below investment grade. The following tables represent: (a) the Registrant Subsidiaries' fair values of such derivative contracts, (b) the amount of collateral the Registrant Subsidiaries would have been required to post for all derivative and non-derivative contracts if credit ratings of the Registrant Subsidiaries had declined below investment grade and (c) how much was attributable to RTO and ISO activities as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012:

    March 31, 2013
    Liabilities for Amount of Collateral the Amount
    Derivative Contracts Registrant Subsidiaries Attributable to
    with Credit Would Have Been RTO and ISO
 Company Downgrade Triggers Required to Post Activities
    (in thousands)
 APCo $ 1,377 $ 3,635 $ 3,531
 I&M   951   2,512   2,440
 OPCo   1,946   5,140   4,992
 PSO   -   625   562
 SWEPCo   -   736   662

    December 31, 2012
    Liabilities for Amount of Collateral the Amount
    Derivative Contracts Registrant Subsidiaries Attributable to
    with Credit  Would Have Been RTO and ISO
 Company Downgrade Triggers Required to Post Activities
    (in thousands)
 APCo $ 2,159 $ 3,699 $ 3,510
 I&M   1,483   2,540   2,411
 OPCo   3,034   5,198   4,933
 PSO   -   1,509   1,429
 SWEPCo   -   1,778   1,683

In addition, a majority of the Registrant Subsidiaries' non-exchange traded commodity contracts contain cross-default provisions that, if triggered, would permit the counterparty to declare a default and require settlement of the outstanding payable. These cross-default provisions could be triggered if there was a non-performance event by Parent or the obligor under outstanding debt or a third party obligation in excess of $50 million. On an ongoing basis, AEP's risk management organization assesses the appropriateness of these cross-default provisions in the contracts. The following tables represent: (a) the fair value of these derivative liabilities subject to cross-default provisions prior to consideration of contractual netting arrangements, (b) the amount this exposure has been reduced by cash collateral posted by the Registrant Subsidiaries and (c) if a cross-default provision would have been triggered, the settlement amount that would be required after considering the Registrant Subsidiaries' contractual netting arrangements as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012:

    March 31, 2013
    Liabilities for   Additional
    Contracts with Cross   Settlement
    Default Provisions   Liability if Cross
    Prior to Contractual Amount of Cash Default Provision
 Company Netting Arrangements Collateral Posted is Triggered
    (in thousands)
 APCo $ 32,626 $ - $ 20,446
 I&M   22,546   -   14,129
 OPCo   46,131   -   28,909
 PSO   11   -   9
 SWEPCo   12   -   11
            
    December 31, 2012
    Liabilities for   Additional
    Contracts with Cross   Settlement
    Default Provisions   Liability if Cross
    Prior to Contractual Amount of Cash Default Provision
 Company Netting Arrangements Collateral Posted is Triggered
    (in thousands)
 APCo $ 49,465 $ 1,822 $ 30,160
 I&M   53,499   1,252   40,240
 OPCo   69,516   2,561   42,386
 PSO   -   -   -
 SWEPCo   -   -   -
Indiana Michigan Power Co [Member]
 
Derivatives and Hedging

8. DERIVATIVES AND HEDGING

 

OBJECTIVES FOR UTILIZATION OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

 

The Registrant Subsidiaries are exposed to certain market risks as major power producers and marketers of wholesale electricity, coal and emission allowances. These risks include commodity price risk, interest rate risk, credit risk and, to a lesser extent, foreign currency exchange risk. These risks represent the risk of loss that may impact the Registrant Subsidiaries due to changes in the underlying market prices or rates. AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, manages these risks using derivative instruments.

STRATEGIES FOR UTILIZATION OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS TO ACHIEVE OBJECTIVES

 

Risk Management Strategies

 

The strategy surrounding the use of derivative instruments primarily focuses on managing risk exposures, future cash flows and creating value utilizing both economic and formal hedging strategies. The risk management strategies also include the use of derivative instruments for trading purposes, focusing on seizing market opportunities to create value driven by expected changes in the market prices of the commodities in which AEPSC transacts on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries. To accomplish these objectives, AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, primarily employs risk management contracts including physical and financial forward purchase-and-sale contracts and, to a lesser extent, OTC swaps and options. Not all risk management contracts meet the definition of a derivative under the accounting guidance for “Derivatives and Hedging.” Derivative risk management contracts elected normal under the normal purchases and normal sales scope exception are not subject to the requirements of this accounting guidance.

 

AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, enters into power, coal, natural gas, interest rate and, to a lesser degree, heating oil and gasoline, emission allowance and other commodity contracts to manage the risk associated with the energy business. AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, enters into interest rate derivative contracts in order to manage the interest rate exposure associated with the Registrant Subsidiaries' commodity portfolio. For disclosure purposes, such risks are grouped as “Commodity,” as these risks are related to energy risk management activities. AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, also engages in risk management of interest rate risk associated with debt financing and foreign currency risk associated with future purchase obligations denominated in foreign currencies. For disclosure purposes, these risks are grouped as “Interest Rate and Foreign Currency.” The amount of risk taken is determined by the Commercial Operations and Finance groups in accordance with established risk management policies as approved by the Finance Committee of AEP's Board of Directors.

 

The following tables represent the gross notional volume of the Registrant Subsidiaries' outstanding derivative contracts as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012:

Notional Volume of Derivative Instruments
March 31, 2013
                    
Primary Risk Unit of               
Exposure Measure APCo I&M OPCo PSO SWEPCo
      (in thousands)
Commodity:                 
 Power MWhs   62,679   43,390   88,625   8   9
 Coal Tons   932   2,175   2,213   1,489   789
 Natural Gas MMBtus   8,213   5,676   11,613   -   -
 Heating Oil and                 
  Gasoline Gallons   1,177   580   1,386   589   724
 Interest Rate USD $ 22,108 $ 15,278 $ 31,259 $ - $ -
                    
Interest Rate and                 
 Foreign Currency USD $ - $ - $ - $ - $ -
                    
Notional Volume of Derivative Instruments
December 31, 2012
                    
Primary Risk Unit of               
Exposure Measure APCo I&M OPCo PSO SWEPCo
      (in thousands)
Commodity:                 
 Power MWhs   94,059   64,791   132,188   -   -
 Coal Tons   1,401   2,711   3,033   1,980   1,312
 Natural Gas MMBtus   10,077   6,922   14,163   -   -
 Heating Oil and                 
  Gasoline Gallons   1,050   532   1,260   616   585
 Interest Rate USD $ 24,146 $ 16,584 $ 33,934 $ - $ -
                    
Interest Rate and                 
 Foreign Currency USD $ - $ 200,000 $ - $ - $ -

Fair Value Hedging Strategies

 

AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, enters into interest rate derivative transactions as part of an overall strategy to manage the mix of fixed-rate and floating-rate debt. Certain interest rate derivative transactions effectively modify an exposure to interest rate risk by converting a portion of fixed-rate debt to a floating rate. Provided specific criteria are met, these interest rate derivatives are designated as fair value hedges.

Cash Flow Hedging Strategies

 

AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, enters into and designates as cash flow hedges certain derivative transactions for the purchase and sale of power, coal, natural gas and heating oil and gasoline (“Commodity”) in order to manage the variable price risk related to the forecasted purchase and sale of these commodities. Management monitors the potential impacts of commodity price changes and, where appropriate, enters into derivative transactions to protect profit margins for a portion of future electricity sales and fuel or energy purchases. The Registrant Subsidiaries do not hedge all commodity price risk.

 

The Registrant Subsidiaries' vehicle fleet is exposed to gasoline and diesel fuel price volatility. AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, enters into financial heating oil and gasoline derivative contracts in order to mitigate price risk of future fuel purchases. For disclosure purposes, these contracts are included with other hedging activities as “Commodity.” The Registrant Subsidiaries do not hedge all fuel price risk.

 

AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, enters into a variety of interest rate derivative transactions in order to manage interest rate risk exposure. Some interest rate derivative transactions effectively modify exposure to interest rate risk by converting a portion of floating-rate debt to a fixed rate. AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, also enters into interest rate derivative contracts to manage interest rate exposure related to future borrowings of fixed-rate debt. The forecasted fixed-rate debt offerings have a high probability of occurrence as the proceeds will be used to fund existing debt maturities and projected capital expenditures. The Registrant Subsidiaries do not hedge all interest rate exposure.

 

At times, the Registrant Subsidiaries are exposed to foreign currency exchange rate risks primarily when some fixed assets are purchased from foreign suppliers. In accordance with AEP's risk management policy, AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, may enter into foreign currency derivative transactions to protect against the risk of increased cash outflows resulting from a foreign currency's appreciation against the dollar. The Registrant Subsidiaries do not hedge all foreign currency exposure.

ACCOUNTING FOR DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND THE IMPACT ON THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

The accounting guidance for “Derivatives and Hedging” requires recognition of all qualifying derivative instruments as either assets or liabilities on the condensed balance sheet at fair value. The fair values of derivative instruments accounted for using MTM accounting or hedge accounting are based on exchange prices and broker quotes. If a quoted market price is not available, the estimate of fair value is based on the best information available including valuation models that estimate future energy prices based on existing market and broker quotes, supply and demand market data and assumptions. In order to determine the relevant fair values of the derivative instruments, the Registrant Subsidiaries also apply valuation adjustments for discounting, liquidity and credit quality.

 

Credit risk is the risk that a counterparty will fail to perform on the contract or fail to pay amounts due. Liquidity risk represents the risk that imperfections in the market will cause the price to vary from estimated fair value based upon prevailing market supply and demand conditions. Since energy markets are imperfect and volatile, there are inherent risks related to the underlying assumptions in models used to fair value risk management contracts. Unforeseen events may cause reasonable price curves to differ from actual price curves throughout a contract's term and at the time a contract settles. Consequently, there could be significant adverse or favorable effects on future net income and cash flows if market prices are not consistent with management's estimates of current market consensus for forward prices in the current period. This is particularly true for longer term contracts. Cash flows may vary based on market conditions, margin requirements and the timing of settlement of risk management contracts.

 

According to the accounting guidance for “Derivatives and Hedging,” the Registrant Subsidiaries reflect the fair values of derivative instruments subject to netting agreements with the same counterparty net of related cash collateral. For certain risk management contracts, the Registrant Subsidiaries are required to post or receive cash collateral based on third party contractual agreements and risk profiles. For the March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 condensed balance sheets, the Registrant Subsidiaries netted cash collateral received from third parties against short-term and long-term risk management assets and cash collateral paid to third parties against short-term and long-term risk management liabilities as follows:

    March 31, 2013 December 31, 2012
    Cash Collateral Cash Collateral Cash Collateral Cash Collateral
    Received Paid Received Paid
    Netted Against Netted Against Netted Against Netted Against
    Risk Management Risk Management Risk Management Risk Management
 Company Assets Liabilities Assets Liabilities
    (in thousands)
 APCo $ 1,837 $ 4,888 $ 1,262 $ 11,029
 I&M   1,270   3,378   867   7,576
 OPCo   2,598   6,912   1,774   15,500
 PSO   -   1   -   -
 SWEPCo   -   2   -   -

The following tables represent the gross fair value of the Registrant Subsidiaries' derivative activity on the condensed balance sheets as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012:

I&M                  
Fair Value of Derivative Instruments
March 31, 2013
                    
   Risk     Gross Amounts Gross Net Amounts of
   Management     of Risk Amounts Assets/Liabilities
   Contracts Hedging Contracts Management Offset in the Presented in the
        Interest Rate Assets/ Statement of Statement of
       and Foreign Liabilities Financial Financial
Balance Sheet Location Commodity (a) Commodity (a) Currency (a) Recognized Position (b) Position (c)
                    
   (in thousands)
Current Risk Management Assets $61,736 $800 $- $62,536 $(44,450) $18,086
Long-term Risk Management Assets  27,454  89  -  27,543  (10,948)  16,595
Total Assets  89,190  889  -  90,079  (55,398)  34,681
                    
Current Risk Management Liabilities  54,278  450  -  54,728  (46,037)  8,691
Long-term Risk Management Liabilities   20,876  90  -  20,966  (11,469)  9,497
Total Liabilities  75,154  540  -  75,694  (57,506)  18,188
                    
Total MTM Derivative Contract Net                  
 Assets (Liabilities) $14,036 $349 $- $14,385 $2,108 $16,493
                    
I&M                  
Fair Value of Derivative Instruments
December 31, 2012
                   
   Risk     Gross Amounts Gross Net Amounts of
   Management     of Risk Amounts Assets/Liabilities
   Contracts Hedging Contracts Management Offset in the Presented in the
        Interest Rate Assets/ Statement of Statement of
       and Foreign Liabilities Financial Financial
Balance Sheet Location Commodity (a) Commodity (a) Currency (a) Recognized Position (b) Position (c)
                    
   (in thousands)
Current Risk Management Assets $93,268 $220 $- $93,488 $(66,514) $26,974
Long-term Risk Management Assets  41,553  148  -  41,701  (18,132)  23,569
Total Assets  134,821  368  -  135,189  (84,646)  50,543
                    
Current Risk Management Liabilities  82,433  807  19,524  102,764  (71,247)  31,517
Long-term Risk Management Liabilities   33,714  292  -  34,006  (20,108)  13,898
Total Liabilities  116,147  1,099  19,524  136,770  (91,355)  45,415
                    
Total MTM Derivative Contract Net                  
 Assets (Liabilities) $18,674 $(731) $(19,524) $(1,581) $6,709 $5,128

(a)       Derivative instruments within these categories are reported gross. These instruments are subject to master netting agreements and are presented on the condensed balance sheets on a net basis in accordance with the accounting guidance for "Derivatives and Hedging."

(b)       Amounts include counterparty netting of risk management and hedging contracts and associated cash collateral in accordance with the accounting guidance for "Derivatives and Hedging."

(c)       There are no derivative contracts subject to a master netting arrangement or similar agreement which are not offset in the statement of financial position.

The tables below present the Registrant Subsidiaries' activity of derivative risk management contracts for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012:

 Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized on
 Risk Management Contracts
 For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2013
  
 Location of Gain (Loss) APCo I&M OPCo PSO SWEPCo
     (in thousands)
 Electric Generation, Transmission and               
  Distribution Revenues $ 679 $ 4,947 $ 1,714 $ 47 $ 28
 Sales to AEP Affiliates   -   -   -   -   -
 Fuel and Other Consumables Used for               
  Electric Generation   -   -   -   -   -
 Regulatory Assets (a)   -   486   (1,205)   2,010   271
 Regulatory Liabilities (a)   (466)   (5,182)   -   1   96
 Total Gain (Loss) on Risk Management               
  Contracts $ 213 $ 251 $ 509 $ 2,058 $ 395
                   
 Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized on
 Risk Management Contracts
 For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2012
  
 Location of Gain (Loss) APCo I&M OPCo PSO SWEPCo
     (in thousands)
 Electric Generation, Transmission and               
  Distribution Revenues $ (327) $ 2,813 $ 8,493 $ (5) $ (51)
 Sales to AEP Affiliates   -   -   -   -   -
 Fuel and Other Consumables Used for               
  Electric Generation   -   -   -   -   -
 Regulatory Assets (a)   (3,481)   (3,110)   (3,131)   (5,201)   (6,727)
 Regulatory Liabilities (a)   6,409   6,726   -   27   21
 Total Gain (Loss) on Risk Management               
  Contracts $ 2,601 $ 6,429 $ 5,362 $ (5,179) $ (6,757)
                   
 (a) Represents realized and unrealized gains and losses subject to regulatory accounting treatment recorded as either current
  or noncurrent on the condensed balance sheets.

Certain qualifying derivative instruments have been designated as normal purchase or normal sale contracts, as provided in the accounting guidance for “Derivatives and Hedging.” Derivative contracts that have been designated as normal purchases or normal sales under that accounting guidance are not subject to MTM accounting treatment and are recognized on the condensed statements of income on an accrual basis.

 

The accounting for the changes in the fair value of a derivative instrument depends on whether it qualifies for and has been designated as part of a hedging relationship and further, on the type of hedging relationship. Depending on the exposure, management designates a hedging instrument as a fair value hedge or a cash flow hedge.

 

For contracts that have not been designated as part of a hedging relationship, the accounting for changes in fair value depends on whether the derivative instrument is held for trading purposes. Unrealized and realized gains and losses on derivative instruments held for trading purposes are included in revenues on a net basis on the condensed statements of income. Unrealized and realized gains and losses on derivative instruments not held for trading purposes are included in revenues or expenses on the condensed statements of income depending on the relevant facts and circumstances. However, unrealized and some realized gains and losses in regulated jurisdictions (APCo, I&M, PSO and SWEPCo) for both trading and non-trading derivative instruments are recorded as regulatory assets (for losses) or regulatory liabilities (for gains) in accordance with the accounting guidance for “Regulated Operations.”

Accounting for Fair Value Hedging Strategies

 

For fair value hedges (i.e. hedging the exposure to changes in the fair value of an asset, liability or an identified portion thereof attributable to a particular risk), the gain or loss on the derivative instrument as well as the offsetting gain or loss on the hedged item associated with the hedged risk impacts Net Income during the period of change.

 

The Registrant Subsidiaries record realized and unrealized gains or losses on interest rate swaps that qualify for fair value hedge accounting treatment and any offsetting changes in the fair value of the debt being hedged in Interest Expense on the condensed statements of income. During the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, the Registrant Subsidiaries did not designate any fair value hedging strategies.

Accounting for Cash Flow Hedging Strategies

 

For cash flow hedges (i.e. hedging the exposure to variability in expected future cash flows that is attributable to a particular risk), the Registrant Subsidiaries initially report the effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative instrument as a component of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on the condensed balance sheets until the period the hedged item affects Net Income. The Registrant Subsidiaries recognize any hedge ineffectiveness in Net Income immediately during the period of change, except in regulated jurisdictions where hedge ineffectiveness is recorded as a regulatory asset (for losses) or a regulatory liability (for gains).

 

Realized gains and losses on derivative contracts for the purchase and sale of power, coal and natural gas designated as cash flow hedges are included in Revenues, Fuel and Other Consumables Used for Electric Generation or Purchased Electricity for Resale on the condensed statements of income, or in Regulatory Assets or Regulatory Liabilities on the condensed balance sheets, depending on the specific nature of the risk being hedged. During the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, APCo, I&M and OPCo designated power, coal and natural gas derivatives as cash flow hedges.

 

The Registrant Subsidiaries reclassify gains and losses on heating oil and gasoline derivative contracts designated as cash flow hedges from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on the condensed balance sheets into Other Operation expense, Maintenance expense or Depreciation and Amortization expense, as it relates to capital projects, on the condensed statements of income. During the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, the Registrant Subsidiaries designated heating oil and gasoline derivatives as cash flow hedges.

 

The Registrant Subsidiaries reclassify gains and losses on interest rate derivative hedges related to debt financings from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on the condensed balance sheets into Interest Expense on the condensed statements of income in those periods in which hedged interest payments occur. During the three months ended March 31, 2013, I&M designated interest rate derivatives as cash flow hedges. During the three months ended March 31, 2012, I&M and SWEPCo designated interest rate derivatives as cash flow hedges.

 

The accumulated gains or losses related to foreign currency hedges are reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on the condensed balance sheets into Depreciation and Amortization expense on the condensed statements of income over the depreciable lives of the fixed assets designated as the hedged items in qualifying foreign currency hedging relationships. During the three months ended March 31, 2013, the Registrant Subsidiaries did not designate any foreign currency derivatives as cash flow hedges. During the three months ended March 31, 2012, SWEPCo designated foreign currency derivatives as cash flow hedges.

 

During the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, hedge ineffectiveness was immaterial or nonexistent for all of the hedge strategies disclosed above.

 

For details on designated, effective cash flow hedges included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on the condensed balance sheets and the reasons for changes in cash flow hedges for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, see Note 2.

Cash flow hedges included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on the condensed balance sheets as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 were:

 Impact of Cash Flow Hedges on the Registrant Subsidiaries’
 Condensed Balance Sheets
 March 31, 2013
  
    Hedging Assets (a) Hedging Liabilities (a) AOCI Gain (Loss) Net of Tax
      Interest Rate   Interest Rate   Interest Rate
      and Foreign    and Foreign    and Foreign
 Company Commodity Currency Commodity Currency Commodity Currency
    (in thousands)
 APCo $ 987 $ - $ 450 $ - $ 361 $ 2,330
 I&M   660   -   311   -   236   (17,206)
 OPCo   1,372   -   636   -   494   7,755
 PSO   61   -   1   -   44   6,270
 SWEPCo   73   -   2   -   51   (15,004)

    Expected to be Reclassified to   
    Net Income During the Next   
    Twelve Months   
        Maximum Term for
      Interest Rate Exposure to
      and Foreign  Variability of Future
 Company Commodity Currency Cash Flows
    (in thousands) (in months)
 APCo $ 363 $ (1,013)   21
 I&M   235   (1,640)   21
 OPCo   495   1,359   21
 PSO   41   759   21
 SWEPCo   49   (2,267)   21

 Impact of Cash Flow Hedges on the Registrant Subsidiaries’
 Condensed Balance Sheets
 December 31, 2012
  
    Hedging Assets (a) Hedging Liabilities (a) AOCI Gain (Loss) Net of Tax
      Interest Rate   Interest Rate   Interest Rate
      and Foreign    and Foreign    and Foreign
 Company Commodity Currency Commodity Currency Commodity Currency
    (in thousands)
 APCo $ 302 $ - $ 1,355 $ - $ (644) $ 2,077
 I&M   200   -   931   19,524   (446)   (19,647)
 OPCo   416   -   1,903   -   (912)   8,095
 PSO   25   -   -   -   21   6,460
 SWEPCo   24   -   -   -   22   (15,571)

    Expected to be Reclassified to 
    Net Income During the Next 
    Twelve Months 
      Interest Rate 
      and Foreign  
 Company Commodity Currency 
    (in thousands) 
 APCo $ (507) $ (1,013) 
 I&M   (355)   (1,600) 
 OPCo   (720)   1,359 
 PSO   21   759 
 SWEPCo   22   (2,267) 

(a)       Hedging Assets and Hedging Liabilities are included in Risk Management Assets and Liabilities on the condensed balance sheets.

 

The actual amounts reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) to Net Income can differ from the estimate above due to market price changes.

Credit Risk

 

AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, limits credit risk in their wholesale marketing and trading activities by assessing the creditworthiness of potential counterparties before entering into transactions with them and continuing to evaluate their creditworthiness on an ongoing basis. AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, uses Moody's, Standard and Poor's and current market-based qualitative and quantitative data as well as financial statements to assess the financial health of counterparties on an ongoing basis.

 

When AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, uses standardized master agreements, AEPSC may include collateral requirements. These master agreements facilitate the netting of cash flows associated with a single counterparty. Cash, letters of credit and parental/affiliate guarantees may be obtained as security from counterparties in order to mitigate credit risk. The collateral agreements require a counterparty to post cash or letters of credit in the event an exposure exceeds the established threshold. The threshold represents an unsecured credit limit which may be supported by a parental/affiliate guaranty, as determined in accordance with AEP's credit policy. In addition, collateral agreements allow for termination and liquidation of all positions in the event of a failure or inability to post collateral.

Collateral Triggering Events

 

Under the tariffs of the RTOs and Independent System Operators (ISOs) and a limited number of derivative and non-derivative contracts primarily related to competitive retail auction loads, the Registrant Subsidiaries are obligated to post an additional amount of collateral if certain credit ratings decline below investment grade. The amount of collateral required fluctuates based on market prices and total exposure. On an ongoing basis, AEP's risk management organization assesses the appropriateness of these collateral triggering items in contracts. The Registrant Subsidiaries have not experienced a downgrade below investment grade. The following tables represent: (a) the Registrant Subsidiaries' fair values of such derivative contracts, (b) the amount of collateral the Registrant Subsidiaries would have been required to post for all derivative and non-derivative contracts if credit ratings of the Registrant Subsidiaries had declined below investment grade and (c) how much was attributable to RTO and ISO activities as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012:

    March 31, 2013
    Liabilities for Amount of Collateral the Amount
    Derivative Contracts Registrant Subsidiaries Attributable to
    with Credit Would Have Been RTO and ISO
 Company Downgrade Triggers Required to Post Activities
    (in thousands)
 APCo $ 1,377 $ 3,635 $ 3,531
 I&M   951   2,512   2,440
 OPCo   1,946   5,140   4,992
 PSO   -   625   562
 SWEPCo   -   736   662

    December 31, 2012
    Liabilities for Amount of Collateral the Amount
    Derivative Contracts Registrant Subsidiaries Attributable to
    with Credit  Would Have Been RTO and ISO
 Company Downgrade Triggers Required to Post Activities
    (in thousands)
 APCo $ 2,159 $ 3,699 $ 3,510
 I&M   1,483   2,540   2,411
 OPCo   3,034   5,198   4,933
 PSO   -   1,509   1,429
 SWEPCo   -   1,778   1,683

In addition, a majority of the Registrant Subsidiaries' non-exchange traded commodity contracts contain cross-default provisions that, if triggered, would permit the counterparty to declare a default and require settlement of the outstanding payable. These cross-default provisions could be triggered if there was a non-performance event by Parent or the obligor under outstanding debt or a third party obligation in excess of $50 million. On an ongoing basis, AEP's risk management organization assesses the appropriateness of these cross-default provisions in the contracts. The following tables represent: (a) the fair value of these derivative liabilities subject to cross-default provisions prior to consideration of contractual netting arrangements, (b) the amount this exposure has been reduced by cash collateral posted by the Registrant Subsidiaries and (c) if a cross-default provision would have been triggered, the settlement amount that would be required after considering the Registrant Subsidiaries' contractual netting arrangements as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012:

    March 31, 2013
    Liabilities for   Additional
    Contracts with Cross   Settlement
    Default Provisions   Liability if Cross
    Prior to Contractual Amount of Cash Default Provision
 Company Netting Arrangements Collateral Posted is Triggered
    (in thousands)
 APCo $ 32,626 $ - $ 20,446
 I&M   22,546   -   14,129
 OPCo   46,131   -   28,909
 PSO   11   -   9
 SWEPCo   12   -   11
            
    December 31, 2012
    Liabilities for   Additional
    Contracts with Cross   Settlement
    Default Provisions   Liability if Cross
    Prior to Contractual Amount of Cash Default Provision
 Company Netting Arrangements Collateral Posted is Triggered
    (in thousands)
 APCo $ 49,465 $ 1,822 $ 30,160
 I&M   53,499   1,252   40,240
 OPCo   69,516   2,561   42,386
 PSO   -   -   -
 SWEPCo   -   -   -
Ohio Power Co [Member]
 
Derivatives and Hedging

8. DERIVATIVES AND HEDGING

 

OBJECTIVES FOR UTILIZATION OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

 

The Registrant Subsidiaries are exposed to certain market risks as major power producers and marketers of wholesale electricity, coal and emission allowances. These risks include commodity price risk, interest rate risk, credit risk and, to a lesser extent, foreign currency exchange risk. These risks represent the risk of loss that may impact the Registrant Subsidiaries due to changes in the underlying market prices or rates. AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, manages these risks using derivative instruments.

STRATEGIES FOR UTILIZATION OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS TO ACHIEVE OBJECTIVES

 

Risk Management Strategies

 

The strategy surrounding the use of derivative instruments primarily focuses on managing risk exposures, future cash flows and creating value utilizing both economic and formal hedging strategies. The risk management strategies also include the use of derivative instruments for trading purposes, focusing on seizing market opportunities to create value driven by expected changes in the market prices of the commodities in which AEPSC transacts on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries. To accomplish these objectives, AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, primarily employs risk management contracts including physical and financial forward purchase-and-sale contracts and, to a lesser extent, OTC swaps and options. Not all risk management contracts meet the definition of a derivative under the accounting guidance for “Derivatives and Hedging.” Derivative risk management contracts elected normal under the normal purchases and normal sales scope exception are not subject to the requirements of this accounting guidance.

 

AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, enters into power, coal, natural gas, interest rate and, to a lesser degree, heating oil and gasoline, emission allowance and other commodity contracts to manage the risk associated with the energy business. AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, enters into interest rate derivative contracts in order to manage the interest rate exposure associated with the Registrant Subsidiaries' commodity portfolio. For disclosure purposes, such risks are grouped as “Commodity,” as these risks are related to energy risk management activities. AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, also engages in risk management of interest rate risk associated with debt financing and foreign currency risk associated with future purchase obligations denominated in foreign currencies. For disclosure purposes, these risks are grouped as “Interest Rate and Foreign Currency.” The amount of risk taken is determined by the Commercial Operations and Finance groups in accordance with established risk management policies as approved by the Finance Committee of AEP's Board of Directors.

 

The following tables represent the gross notional volume of the Registrant Subsidiaries' outstanding derivative contracts as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012:

Notional Volume of Derivative Instruments
March 31, 2013
                    
Primary Risk Unit of               
Exposure Measure APCo I&M OPCo PSO SWEPCo
      (in thousands)
Commodity:                 
 Power MWhs   62,679   43,390   88,625   8   9
 Coal Tons   932   2,175   2,213   1,489   789
 Natural Gas MMBtus   8,213   5,676   11,613   -   -
 Heating Oil and                 
  Gasoline Gallons   1,177   580   1,386   589   724
 Interest Rate USD $ 22,108 $ 15,278 $ 31,259 $ - $ -
                    
Interest Rate and                 
 Foreign Currency USD $ - $ - $ - $ - $ -
                    
Notional Volume of Derivative Instruments
December 31, 2012
                    
Primary Risk Unit of               
Exposure Measure APCo I&M OPCo PSO SWEPCo
      (in thousands)
Commodity:                 
 Power MWhs   94,059   64,791   132,188   -   -
 Coal Tons   1,401   2,711   3,033   1,980   1,312
 Natural Gas MMBtus   10,077   6,922   14,163   -   -
 Heating Oil and                 
  Gasoline Gallons   1,050   532   1,260   616   585
 Interest Rate USD $ 24,146 $ 16,584 $ 33,934 $ - $ -
                    
Interest Rate and                 
 Foreign Currency USD $ - $ 200,000 $ - $ - $ -

Fair Value Hedging Strategies

 

AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, enters into interest rate derivative transactions as part of an overall strategy to manage the mix of fixed-rate and floating-rate debt. Certain interest rate derivative transactions effectively modify an exposure to interest rate risk by converting a portion of fixed-rate debt to a floating rate. Provided specific criteria are met, these interest rate derivatives are designated as fair value hedges.

Cash Flow Hedging Strategies

 

AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, enters into and designates as cash flow hedges certain derivative transactions for the purchase and sale of power, coal, natural gas and heating oil and gasoline (“Commodity”) in order to manage the variable price risk related to the forecasted purchase and sale of these commodities. Management monitors the potential impacts of commodity price changes and, where appropriate, enters into derivative transactions to protect profit margins for a portion of future electricity sales and fuel or energy purchases. The Registrant Subsidiaries do not hedge all commodity price risk.

 

The Registrant Subsidiaries' vehicle fleet is exposed to gasoline and diesel fuel price volatility. AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, enters into financial heating oil and gasoline derivative contracts in order to mitigate price risk of future fuel purchases. For disclosure purposes, these contracts are included with other hedging activities as “Commodity.” The Registrant Subsidiaries do not hedge all fuel price risk.

 

AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, enters into a variety of interest rate derivative transactions in order to manage interest rate risk exposure. Some interest rate derivative transactions effectively modify exposure to interest rate risk by converting a portion of floating-rate debt to a fixed rate. AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, also enters into interest rate derivative contracts to manage interest rate exposure related to future borrowings of fixed-rate debt. The forecasted fixed-rate debt offerings have a high probability of occurrence as the proceeds will be used to fund existing debt maturities and projected capital expenditures. The Registrant Subsidiaries do not hedge all interest rate exposure.

 

At times, the Registrant Subsidiaries are exposed to foreign currency exchange rate risks primarily when some fixed assets are purchased from foreign suppliers. In accordance with AEP's risk management policy, AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, may enter into foreign currency derivative transactions to protect against the risk of increased cash outflows resulting from a foreign currency's appreciation against the dollar. The Registrant Subsidiaries do not hedge all foreign currency exposure.

ACCOUNTING FOR DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND THE IMPACT ON THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

The accounting guidance for “Derivatives and Hedging” requires recognition of all qualifying derivative instruments as either assets or liabilities on the condensed balance sheet at fair value. The fair values of derivative instruments accounted for using MTM accounting or hedge accounting are based on exchange prices and broker quotes. If a quoted market price is not available, the estimate of fair value is based on the best information available including valuation models that estimate future energy prices based on existing market and broker quotes, supply and demand market data and assumptions. In order to determine the relevant fair values of the derivative instruments, the Registrant Subsidiaries also apply valuation adjustments for discounting, liquidity and credit quality.

 

Credit risk is the risk that a counterparty will fail to perform on the contract or fail to pay amounts due. Liquidity risk represents the risk that imperfections in the market will cause the price to vary from estimated fair value based upon prevailing market supply and demand conditions. Since energy markets are imperfect and volatile, there are inherent risks related to the underlying assumptions in models used to fair value risk management contracts. Unforeseen events may cause reasonable price curves to differ from actual price curves throughout a contract's term and at the time a contract settles. Consequently, there could be significant adverse or favorable effects on future net income and cash flows if market prices are not consistent with management's estimates of current market consensus for forward prices in the current period. This is particularly true for longer term contracts. Cash flows may vary based on market conditions, margin requirements and the timing of settlement of risk management contracts.

 

According to the accounting guidance for “Derivatives and Hedging,” the Registrant Subsidiaries reflect the fair values of derivative instruments subject to netting agreements with the same counterparty net of related cash collateral. For certain risk management contracts, the Registrant Subsidiaries are required to post or receive cash collateral based on third party contractual agreements and risk profiles. For the March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 condensed balance sheets, the Registrant Subsidiaries netted cash collateral received from third parties against short-term and long-term risk management assets and cash collateral paid to third parties against short-term and long-term risk management liabilities as follows:

    March 31, 2013 December 31, 2012
    Cash Collateral Cash Collateral Cash Collateral Cash Collateral
    Received Paid Received Paid
    Netted Against Netted Against Netted Against Netted Against
    Risk Management Risk Management Risk Management Risk Management
 Company Assets Liabilities Assets Liabilities
    (in thousands)
 APCo $ 1,837 $ 4,888 $ 1,262 $ 11,029
 I&M   1,270   3,378   867   7,576
 OPCo   2,598   6,912   1,774   15,500
 PSO   -   1   -   -
 SWEPCo   -   2   -   -

The following tables represent the gross fair value of the Registrant Subsidiaries' derivative activity on the condensed balance sheets as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012:

OPCo                  
Fair Value of Derivative Instruments
March 31, 2013
                    
   Risk     Gross Amounts Gross Net Amounts of
   Management     of Risk Amounts Assets/Liabilities
   Contracts Hedging Contracts Management Offset in the Presented in the
        Interest Rate Assets/ Statement of Statement of
       and Foreign Liabilities Financial Financial
Balance Sheet Location Commodity (a) Commodity (a) Currency (a) Recognized Position (b) Position (c)
                    
   (in thousands)
Current Risk Management Assets $126,082 $1,657 $- $127,739 $(94,258) $33,481
Long-term Risk Management Assets  56,173  184  -  56,357  (22,401)  33,956
Total Assets  182,255  1,841  -  184,096  (116,659)  67,437
                    
Current Risk Management Liabilities  114,172  919  -  115,091  (97,505)  17,586
Long-term Risk Management Liabilities   41,330  186  -  41,516  (23,468)  18,048
Total Liabilities  155,502  1,105  -  156,607  (120,973)  35,634
                    
Total MTM Derivative Contract Net                  
 Assets (Liabilities) $26,753 $736 $- $27,489 $4,314 $31,803
                    
OPCo                  
Fair Value of Derivative Instruments
December 31, 2012
                    
   Risk     Gross Amounts Gross Net Amounts of
   Management     of Risk Amounts Assets/Liabilities
   Contracts Hedging Contracts Management Offset in the Presented in the
        Interest Rate Assets/ Statement of Statement of
       and Foreign Liabilities Financial Financial
Balance Sheet Location Commodity (a) Commodity (a) Currency (a) Recognized Position (b) Position (c)
                    
   (in thousands)
Current Risk Management Assets $183,064 $464 $- $183,528 $(139,215) $44,313
Long-term Risk Management Assets  85,023  303  -  85,326  (37,038)  48,288
Total Assets  268,087  767  -  268,854  (176,253)  92,601
                    
Current Risk Management Liabilities  171,397  1,658  -  173,055  (148,900)  24,155
Long-term Risk Management Liabilities   66,448  596  -  67,044  (41,079)  25,965
Total Liabilities  237,845  2,254  -  240,099  (189,979)  50,120
                    
Total MTM Derivative Contract Net                  
 Assets (Liabilities) $30,242 $(1,487) $- $28,755 $13,726 $42,481

(a)       Derivative instruments within these categories are reported gross. These instruments are subject to master netting agreements and are presented on the condensed balance sheets on a net basis in accordance with the accounting guidance for "Derivatives and Hedging."

(b)       Amounts include counterparty netting of risk management and hedging contracts and associated cash collateral in accordance with the accounting guidance for "Derivatives and Hedging."

(c)       There are no derivative contracts subject to a master netting arrangement or similar agreement which are not offset in the statement of financial position.

The tables below present the Registrant Subsidiaries' activity of derivative risk management contracts for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012:

 Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized on
 Risk Management Contracts
 For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2013
  
 Location of Gain (Loss) APCo I&M OPCo PSO SWEPCo
     (in thousands)
 Electric Generation, Transmission and               
  Distribution Revenues $ 679 $ 4,947 $ 1,714 $ 47 $ 28
 Sales to AEP Affiliates   -   -   -   -   -
 Fuel and Other Consumables Used for               
  Electric Generation   -   -   -   -   -
 Regulatory Assets (a)   -   486   (1,205)   2,010   271
 Regulatory Liabilities (a)   (466)   (5,182)   -   1   96
 Total Gain (Loss) on Risk Management               
  Contracts $ 213 $ 251 $ 509 $ 2,058 $ 395
                   
 Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized on
 Risk Management Contracts
 For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2012
  
 Location of Gain (Loss) APCo I&M OPCo PSO SWEPCo
     (in thousands)
 Electric Generation, Transmission and               
  Distribution Revenues $ (327) $ 2,813 $ 8,493 $ (5) $ (51)
 Sales to AEP Affiliates   -   -   -   -   -
 Fuel and Other Consumables Used for               
  Electric Generation   -   -   -   -   -
 Regulatory Assets (a)   (3,481)   (3,110)   (3,131)   (5,201)   (6,727)
 Regulatory Liabilities (a)   6,409   6,726   -   27   21
 Total Gain (Loss) on Risk Management               
  Contracts $ 2,601 $ 6,429 $ 5,362 $ (5,179) $ (6,757)
                   
 (a) Represents realized and unrealized gains and losses subject to regulatory accounting treatment recorded as either current
  or noncurrent on the condensed balance sheets.

Certain qualifying derivative instruments have been designated as normal purchase or normal sale contracts, as provided in the accounting guidance for “Derivatives and Hedging.” Derivative contracts that have been designated as normal purchases or normal sales under that accounting guidance are not subject to MTM accounting treatment and are recognized on the condensed statements of income on an accrual basis.

 

The accounting for the changes in the fair value of a derivative instrument depends on whether it qualifies for and has been designated as part of a hedging relationship and further, on the type of hedging relationship. Depending on the exposure, management designates a hedging instrument as a fair value hedge or a cash flow hedge.

 

For contracts that have not been designated as part of a hedging relationship, the accounting for changes in fair value depends on whether the derivative instrument is held for trading purposes. Unrealized and realized gains and losses on derivative instruments held for trading purposes are included in revenues on a net basis on the condensed statements of income. Unrealized and realized gains and losses on derivative instruments not held for trading purposes are included in revenues or expenses on the condensed statements of income depending on the relevant facts and circumstances. However, unrealized and some realized gains and losses in regulated jurisdictions (APCo, I&M, PSO and SWEPCo) for both trading and non-trading derivative instruments are recorded as regulatory assets (for losses) or regulatory liabilities (for gains) in accordance with the accounting guidance for “Regulated Operations.”

Accounting for Fair Value Hedging Strategies

 

For fair value hedges (i.e. hedging the exposure to changes in the fair value of an asset, liability or an identified portion thereof attributable to a particular risk), the gain or loss on the derivative instrument as well as the offsetting gain or loss on the hedged item associated with the hedged risk impacts Net Income during the period of change.

 

The Registrant Subsidiaries record realized and unrealized gains or losses on interest rate swaps that qualify for fair value hedge accounting treatment and any offsetting changes in the fair value of the debt being hedged in Interest Expense on the condensed statements of income. During the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, the Registrant Subsidiaries did not designate any fair value hedging strategies.

Accounting for Cash Flow Hedging Strategies

 

For cash flow hedges (i.e. hedging the exposure to variability in expected future cash flows that is attributable to a particular risk), the Registrant Subsidiaries initially report the effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative instrument as a component of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on the condensed balance sheets until the period the hedged item affects Net Income. The Registrant Subsidiaries recognize any hedge ineffectiveness in Net Income immediately during the period of change, except in regulated jurisdictions where hedge ineffectiveness is recorded as a regulatory asset (for losses) or a regulatory liability (for gains).

 

Realized gains and losses on derivative contracts for the purchase and sale of power, coal and natural gas designated as cash flow hedges are included in Revenues, Fuel and Other Consumables Used for Electric Generation or Purchased Electricity for Resale on the condensed statements of income, or in Regulatory Assets or Regulatory Liabilities on the condensed balance sheets, depending on the specific nature of the risk being hedged. During the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, APCo, I&M and OPCo designated power, coal and natural gas derivatives as cash flow hedges.

 

The Registrant Subsidiaries reclassify gains and losses on heating oil and gasoline derivative contracts designated as cash flow hedges from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on the condensed balance sheets into Other Operation expense, Maintenance expense or Depreciation and Amortization expense, as it relates to capital projects, on the condensed statements of income. During the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, the Registrant Subsidiaries designated heating oil and gasoline derivatives as cash flow hedges.

 

The Registrant Subsidiaries reclassify gains and losses on interest rate derivative hedges related to debt financings from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on the condensed balance sheets into Interest Expense on the condensed statements of income in those periods in which hedged interest payments occur. During the three months ended March 31, 2013, I&M designated interest rate derivatives as cash flow hedges. During the three months ended March 31, 2012, I&M and SWEPCo designated interest rate derivatives as cash flow hedges.

 

The accumulated gains or losses related to foreign currency hedges are reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on the condensed balance sheets into Depreciation and Amortization expense on the condensed statements of income over the depreciable lives of the fixed assets designated as the hedged items in qualifying foreign currency hedging relationships. During the three months ended March 31, 2013, the Registrant Subsidiaries did not designate any foreign currency derivatives as cash flow hedges. During the three months ended March 31, 2012, SWEPCo designated foreign currency derivatives as cash flow hedges.

 

During the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, hedge ineffectiveness was immaterial or nonexistent for all of the hedge strategies disclosed above.

 

For details on designated, effective cash flow hedges included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on the condensed balance sheets and the reasons for changes in cash flow hedges for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, see Note 2.

Cash flow hedges included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on the condensed balance sheets as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 were:

 Impact of Cash Flow Hedges on the Registrant Subsidiaries’
 Condensed Balance Sheets
 March 31, 2013
  
    Hedging Assets (a) Hedging Liabilities (a) AOCI Gain (Loss) Net of Tax
      Interest Rate   Interest Rate   Interest Rate
      and Foreign    and Foreign    and Foreign
 Company Commodity Currency Commodity Currency Commodity Currency
    (in thousands)
 APCo $ 987 $ - $ 450 $ - $ 361 $ 2,330
 I&M   660   -   311   -   236   (17,206)
 OPCo   1,372   -   636   -   494   7,755
 PSO   61   -   1   -   44   6,270
 SWEPCo   73   -   2   -   51   (15,004)

    Expected to be Reclassified to   
    Net Income During the Next   
    Twelve Months   
        Maximum Term for
      Interest Rate Exposure to
      and Foreign  Variability of Future
 Company Commodity Currency Cash Flows
    (in thousands) (in months)
 APCo $ 363 $ (1,013)   21
 I&M   235   (1,640)   21
 OPCo   495   1,359   21
 PSO   41   759   21
 SWEPCo   49   (2,267)   21

 Impact of Cash Flow Hedges on the Registrant Subsidiaries’
 Condensed Balance Sheets
 December 31, 2012
  
    Hedging Assets (a) Hedging Liabilities (a) AOCI Gain (Loss) Net of Tax
      Interest Rate   Interest Rate   Interest Rate
      and Foreign    and Foreign    and Foreign
 Company Commodity Currency Commodity Currency Commodity Currency
    (in thousands)
 APCo $ 302 $ - $ 1,355 $ - $ (644) $ 2,077
 I&M   200   -   931   19,524   (446)   (19,647)
 OPCo   416   -   1,903   -   (912)   8,095
 PSO   25   -   -   -   21   6,460
 SWEPCo   24   -   -   -   22   (15,571)

    Expected to be Reclassified to 
    Net Income During the Next 
    Twelve Months 
      Interest Rate 
      and Foreign  
 Company Commodity Currency 
    (in thousands) 
 APCo $ (507) $ (1,013) 
 I&M   (355)   (1,600) 
 OPCo   (720)   1,359 
 PSO   21   759 
 SWEPCo   22   (2,267) 

(a)       Hedging Assets and Hedging Liabilities are included in Risk Management Assets and Liabilities on the condensed balance sheets.

 

The actual amounts reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) to Net Income can differ from the estimate above due to market price changes.

Credit Risk

 

AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, limits credit risk in their wholesale marketing and trading activities by assessing the creditworthiness of potential counterparties before entering into transactions with them and continuing to evaluate their creditworthiness on an ongoing basis. AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, uses Moody's, Standard and Poor's and current market-based qualitative and quantitative data as well as financial statements to assess the financial health of counterparties on an ongoing basis.

 

When AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, uses standardized master agreements, AEPSC may include collateral requirements. These master agreements facilitate the netting of cash flows associated with a single counterparty. Cash, letters of credit and parental/affiliate guarantees may be obtained as security from counterparties in order to mitigate credit risk. The collateral agreements require a counterparty to post cash or letters of credit in the event an exposure exceeds the established threshold. The threshold represents an unsecured credit limit which may be supported by a parental/affiliate guaranty, as determined in accordance with AEP's credit policy. In addition, collateral agreements allow for termination and liquidation of all positions in the event of a failure or inability to post collateral.

Collateral Triggering Events

 

Under the tariffs of the RTOs and Independent System Operators (ISOs) and a limited number of derivative and non-derivative contracts primarily related to competitive retail auction loads, the Registrant Subsidiaries are obligated to post an additional amount of collateral if certain credit ratings decline below investment grade. The amount of collateral required fluctuates based on market prices and total exposure. On an ongoing basis, AEP's risk management organization assesses the appropriateness of these collateral triggering items in contracts. The Registrant Subsidiaries have not experienced a downgrade below investment grade. The following tables represent: (a) the Registrant Subsidiaries' fair values of such derivative contracts, (b) the amount of collateral the Registrant Subsidiaries would have been required to post for all derivative and non-derivative contracts if credit ratings of the Registrant Subsidiaries had declined below investment grade and (c) how much was attributable to RTO and ISO activities as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012:

    March 31, 2013
    Liabilities for Amount of Collateral the Amount
    Derivative Contracts Registrant Subsidiaries Attributable to
    with Credit Would Have Been RTO and ISO
 Company Downgrade Triggers Required to Post Activities
    (in thousands)
 APCo $ 1,377 $ 3,635 $ 3,531
 I&M   951   2,512   2,440
 OPCo   1,946   5,140   4,992
 PSO   -   625   562
 SWEPCo   -   736   662

    December 31, 2012
    Liabilities for Amount of Collateral the Amount
    Derivative Contracts Registrant Subsidiaries Attributable to
    with Credit  Would Have Been RTO and ISO
 Company Downgrade Triggers Required to Post Activities
    (in thousands)
 APCo $ 2,159 $ 3,699 $ 3,510
 I&M   1,483   2,540   2,411
 OPCo   3,034   5,198   4,933
 PSO   -   1,509   1,429
 SWEPCo   -   1,778   1,683

In addition, a majority of the Registrant Subsidiaries' non-exchange traded commodity contracts contain cross-default provisions that, if triggered, would permit the counterparty to declare a default and require settlement of the outstanding payable. These cross-default provisions could be triggered if there was a non-performance event by Parent or the obligor under outstanding debt or a third party obligation in excess of $50 million. On an ongoing basis, AEP's risk management organization assesses the appropriateness of these cross-default provisions in the contracts. The following tables represent: (a) the fair value of these derivative liabilities subject to cross-default provisions prior to consideration of contractual netting arrangements, (b) the amount this exposure has been reduced by cash collateral posted by the Registrant Subsidiaries and (c) if a cross-default provision would have been triggered, the settlement amount that would be required after considering the Registrant Subsidiaries' contractual netting arrangements as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012:

    March 31, 2013
    Liabilities for   Additional
    Contracts with Cross   Settlement
    Default Provisions   Liability if Cross
    Prior to Contractual Amount of Cash Default Provision
 Company Netting Arrangements Collateral Posted is Triggered
    (in thousands)
 APCo $ 32,626 $ - $ 20,446
 I&M   22,546   -   14,129
 OPCo   46,131   -   28,909
 PSO   11   -   9
 SWEPCo   12   -   11
            
    December 31, 2012
    Liabilities for   Additional
    Contracts with Cross   Settlement
    Default Provisions   Liability if Cross
    Prior to Contractual Amount of Cash Default Provision
 Company Netting Arrangements Collateral Posted is Triggered
    (in thousands)
 APCo $ 49,465 $ 1,822 $ 30,160
 I&M   53,499   1,252   40,240
 OPCo   69,516   2,561   42,386
 PSO   -   -   -
 SWEPCo   -   -   -
Public Service Co Of Oklahoma [Member]
 
Derivatives and Hedging

8. DERIVATIVES AND HEDGING

 

OBJECTIVES FOR UTILIZATION OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

 

The Registrant Subsidiaries are exposed to certain market risks as major power producers and marketers of wholesale electricity, coal and emission allowances. These risks include commodity price risk, interest rate risk, credit risk and, to a lesser extent, foreign currency exchange risk. These risks represent the risk of loss that may impact the Registrant Subsidiaries due to changes in the underlying market prices or rates. AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, manages these risks using derivative instruments.

STRATEGIES FOR UTILIZATION OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS TO ACHIEVE OBJECTIVES

 

Risk Management Strategies

 

The strategy surrounding the use of derivative instruments primarily focuses on managing risk exposures, future cash flows and creating value utilizing both economic and formal hedging strategies. The risk management strategies also include the use of derivative instruments for trading purposes, focusing on seizing market opportunities to create value driven by expected changes in the market prices of the commodities in which AEPSC transacts on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries. To accomplish these objectives, AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, primarily employs risk management contracts including physical and financial forward purchase-and-sale contracts and, to a lesser extent, OTC swaps and options. Not all risk management contracts meet the definition of a derivative under the accounting guidance for “Derivatives and Hedging.” Derivative risk management contracts elected normal under the normal purchases and normal sales scope exception are not subject to the requirements of this accounting guidance.

 

AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, enters into power, coal, natural gas, interest rate and, to a lesser degree, heating oil and gasoline, emission allowance and other commodity contracts to manage the risk associated with the energy business. AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, enters into interest rate derivative contracts in order to manage the interest rate exposure associated with the Registrant Subsidiaries' commodity portfolio. For disclosure purposes, such risks are grouped as “Commodity,” as these risks are related to energy risk management activities. AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, also engages in risk management of interest rate risk associated with debt financing and foreign currency risk associated with future purchase obligations denominated in foreign currencies. For disclosure purposes, these risks are grouped as “Interest Rate and Foreign Currency.” The amount of risk taken is determined by the Commercial Operations and Finance groups in accordance with established risk management policies as approved by the Finance Committee of AEP's Board of Directors.

 

The following tables represent the gross notional volume of the Registrant Subsidiaries' outstanding derivative contracts as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012:

Notional Volume of Derivative Instruments
March 31, 2013
                    
Primary Risk Unit of               
Exposure Measure APCo I&M OPCo PSO SWEPCo
      (in thousands)
Commodity:                 
 Power MWhs   62,679   43,390   88,625   8   9
 Coal Tons   932   2,175   2,213   1,489   789
 Natural Gas MMBtus   8,213   5,676   11,613   -   -
 Heating Oil and                 
  Gasoline Gallons   1,177   580   1,386   589   724
 Interest Rate USD $ 22,108 $ 15,278 $ 31,259 $ - $ -
                    
Interest Rate and                 
 Foreign Currency USD $ - $ - $ - $ - $ -
                    
Notional Volume of Derivative Instruments
December 31, 2012
                    
Primary Risk Unit of               
Exposure Measure APCo I&M OPCo PSO SWEPCo
      (in thousands)
Commodity:                 
 Power MWhs   94,059   64,791   132,188   -   -
 Coal Tons   1,401   2,711   3,033   1,980   1,312
 Natural Gas MMBtus   10,077   6,922   14,163   -   -
 Heating Oil and                 
  Gasoline Gallons   1,050   532   1,260   616   585
 Interest Rate USD $ 24,146 $ 16,584 $ 33,934 $ - $ -
                    
Interest Rate and                 
 Foreign Currency USD $ - $ 200,000 $ - $ - $ -

Fair Value Hedging Strategies

 

AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, enters into interest rate derivative transactions as part of an overall strategy to manage the mix of fixed-rate and floating-rate debt. Certain interest rate derivative transactions effectively modify an exposure to interest rate risk by converting a portion of fixed-rate debt to a floating rate. Provided specific criteria are met, these interest rate derivatives are designated as fair value hedges.

Cash Flow Hedging Strategies

 

AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, enters into and designates as cash flow hedges certain derivative transactions for the purchase and sale of power, coal, natural gas and heating oil and gasoline (“Commodity”) in order to manage the variable price risk related to the forecasted purchase and sale of these commodities. Management monitors the potential impacts of commodity price changes and, where appropriate, enters into derivative transactions to protect profit margins for a portion of future electricity sales and fuel or energy purchases. The Registrant Subsidiaries do not hedge all commodity price risk.

 

The Registrant Subsidiaries' vehicle fleet is exposed to gasoline and diesel fuel price volatility. AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, enters into financial heating oil and gasoline derivative contracts in order to mitigate price risk of future fuel purchases. For disclosure purposes, these contracts are included with other hedging activities as “Commodity.” The Registrant Subsidiaries do not hedge all fuel price risk.

 

AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, enters into a variety of interest rate derivative transactions in order to manage interest rate risk exposure. Some interest rate derivative transactions effectively modify exposure to interest rate risk by converting a portion of floating-rate debt to a fixed rate. AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, also enters into interest rate derivative contracts to manage interest rate exposure related to future borrowings of fixed-rate debt. The forecasted fixed-rate debt offerings have a high probability of occurrence as the proceeds will be used to fund existing debt maturities and projected capital expenditures. The Registrant Subsidiaries do not hedge all interest rate exposure.

 

At times, the Registrant Subsidiaries are exposed to foreign currency exchange rate risks primarily when some fixed assets are purchased from foreign suppliers. In accordance with AEP's risk management policy, AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, may enter into foreign currency derivative transactions to protect against the risk of increased cash outflows resulting from a foreign currency's appreciation against the dollar. The Registrant Subsidiaries do not hedge all foreign currency exposure.

ACCOUNTING FOR DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND THE IMPACT ON THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

The accounting guidance for “Derivatives and Hedging” requires recognition of all qualifying derivative instruments as either assets or liabilities on the condensed balance sheet at fair value. The fair values of derivative instruments accounted for using MTM accounting or hedge accounting are based on exchange prices and broker quotes. If a quoted market price is not available, the estimate of fair value is based on the best information available including valuation models that estimate future energy prices based on existing market and broker quotes, supply and demand market data and assumptions. In order to determine the relevant fair values of the derivative instruments, the Registrant Subsidiaries also apply valuation adjustments for discounting, liquidity and credit quality.

 

Credit risk is the risk that a counterparty will fail to perform on the contract or fail to pay amounts due. Liquidity risk represents the risk that imperfections in the market will cause the price to vary from estimated fair value based upon prevailing market supply and demand conditions. Since energy markets are imperfect and volatile, there are inherent risks related to the underlying assumptions in models used to fair value risk management contracts. Unforeseen events may cause reasonable price curves to differ from actual price curves throughout a contract's term and at the time a contract settles. Consequently, there could be significant adverse or favorable effects on future net income and cash flows if market prices are not consistent with management's estimates of current market consensus for forward prices in the current period. This is particularly true for longer term contracts. Cash flows may vary based on market conditions, margin requirements and the timing of settlement of risk management contracts.

 

According to the accounting guidance for “Derivatives and Hedging,” the Registrant Subsidiaries reflect the fair values of derivative instruments subject to netting agreements with the same counterparty net of related cash collateral. For certain risk management contracts, the Registrant Subsidiaries are required to post or receive cash collateral based on third party contractual agreements and risk profiles. For the March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 condensed balance sheets, the Registrant Subsidiaries netted cash collateral received from third parties against short-term and long-term risk management assets and cash collateral paid to third parties against short-term and long-term risk management liabilities as follows:

    March 31, 2013 December 31, 2012
    Cash Collateral Cash Collateral Cash Collateral Cash Collateral
    Received Paid Received Paid
    Netted Against Netted Against Netted Against Netted Against
    Risk Management Risk Management Risk Management Risk Management
 Company Assets Liabilities Assets Liabilities
    (in thousands)
 APCo $ 1,837 $ 4,888 $ 1,262 $ 11,029
 I&M   1,270   3,378   867   7,576
 OPCo   2,598   6,912   1,774   15,500
 PSO   -   1   -   -
 SWEPCo   -   2   -   -

The following tables represent the gross fair value of the Registrant Subsidiaries' derivative activity on the condensed balance sheets as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012:

PSO                  
Fair Value of Derivative Instruments
March 31, 2013
                    
   Risk     Gross Amounts Gross Net Amounts of
   Management     of Risk Amounts Assets/Liabilities
   Contracts Hedging Contracts Management Offset in the Presented in the
        Interest Rate Assets/ Statement of Statement of
       and Foreign Liabilities Financial Financial
Balance Sheet Location Commodity (a) Commodity (a) Currency (a) Recognized Position (b) Position (c)
                    
   (in thousands)
Current Risk Management Assets $1,723 $57 $- $1,780 $(1,068) $712
Long-term Risk Management Assets  -  4  -  4  -  4
Total Assets  1,723  61  -  1,784  (1,068)  716
                    
Current Risk Management Liabilities  4,074  -  -  4,074  (1,068)  3,006
Long-term Risk Management Liabilities   -  1  -  1  (1)  -
Total Liabilities  4,074  1  -  4,075  (1,069)  3,006
                    
Total MTM Derivative Contract Net                  
 Assets (Liabilities) $(2,351) $60 $- $(2,291) $1 $(2,290)
                    
PSO                  
Fair Value of Derivative Instruments
December 31, 2012
                    
   Risk     Gross Amounts Gross Net Amounts of
   Management     of Risk Amounts Assets/Liabilities
   Contracts Hedging Contracts Management Offset in the Presented in the
        Interest Rate Assets/ Statement of Statement of
       and Foreign Liabilities Financial Financial
Balance Sheet Location Commodity (a) Commodity (a) Currency (a) Recognized Position (b) Position (c)
                    
   (in thousands)
Current Risk Management Assets $1,657 $42 $- $1,699 $(1,190) $509
Long-term Risk Management Assets  -  -  -  -  31  31
Total Assets  1,657  42  -  1,699  (1,159)  540
                    
Current Risk Management Liabilities  7,021  17  -  7,038  (1,190)  5,848
Long-term Risk Management Liabilities   -  -  -  -  31  31
Total Liabilities  7,021  17  -  7,038  (1,159)  5,879
                    
Total MTM Derivative Contract Net                  
 Assets (Liabilities) $(5,364) $25 $- $(5,339) $- $(5,339)

(a)       Derivative instruments within these categories are reported gross. These instruments are subject to master netting agreements and are presented on the condensed balance sheets on a net basis in accordance with the accounting guidance for "Derivatives and Hedging."

(b)       Amounts include counterparty netting of risk management and hedging contracts and associated cash collateral in accordance with the accounting guidance for "Derivatives and Hedging."

(c)       There are no derivative contracts subject to a master netting arrangement or similar agreement which are not offset in the statement of financial position.

The tables below present the Registrant Subsidiaries' activity of derivative risk management contracts for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012:

 Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized on
 Risk Management Contracts
 For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2013
  
 Location of Gain (Loss) APCo I&M OPCo PSO SWEPCo
     (in thousands)
 Electric Generation, Transmission and               
  Distribution Revenues $ 679 $ 4,947 $ 1,714 $ 47 $ 28
 Sales to AEP Affiliates   -   -   -   -   -
 Fuel and Other Consumables Used for               
  Electric Generation   -   -   -   -   -
 Regulatory Assets (a)   -   486   (1,205)   2,010   271
 Regulatory Liabilities (a)   (466)   (5,182)   -   1   96
 Total Gain (Loss) on Risk Management               
  Contracts $ 213 $ 251 $ 509 $ 2,058 $ 395
                   
 Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized on
 Risk Management Contracts
 For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2012
  
 Location of Gain (Loss) APCo I&M OPCo PSO SWEPCo
     (in thousands)
 Electric Generation, Transmission and               
  Distribution Revenues $ (327) $ 2,813 $ 8,493 $ (5) $ (51)
 Sales to AEP Affiliates   -   -   -   -   -
 Fuel and Other Consumables Used for               
  Electric Generation   -   -   -   -   -
 Regulatory Assets (a)   (3,481)   (3,110)   (3,131)   (5,201)   (6,727)
 Regulatory Liabilities (a)   6,409   6,726   -   27   21
 Total Gain (Loss) on Risk Management               
  Contracts $ 2,601 $ 6,429 $ 5,362 $ (5,179) $ (6,757)
                   
 (a) Represents realized and unrealized gains and losses subject to regulatory accounting treatment recorded as either current
  or noncurrent on the condensed balance sheets.

Certain qualifying derivative instruments have been designated as normal purchase or normal sale contracts, as provided in the accounting guidance for “Derivatives and Hedging.” Derivative contracts that have been designated as normal purchases or normal sales under that accounting guidance are not subject to MTM accounting treatment and are recognized on the condensed statements of income on an accrual basis.

 

The accounting for the changes in the fair value of a derivative instrument depends on whether it qualifies for and has been designated as part of a hedging relationship and further, on the type of hedging relationship. Depending on the exposure, management designates a hedging instrument as a fair value hedge or a cash flow hedge.

 

For contracts that have not been designated as part of a hedging relationship, the accounting for changes in fair value depends on whether the derivative instrument is held for trading purposes. Unrealized and realized gains and losses on derivative instruments held for trading purposes are included in revenues on a net basis on the condensed statements of income. Unrealized and realized gains and losses on derivative instruments not held for trading purposes are included in revenues or expenses on the condensed statements of income depending on the relevant facts and circumstances. However, unrealized and some realized gains and losses in regulated jurisdictions (APCo, I&M, PSO and SWEPCo) for both trading and non-trading derivative instruments are recorded as regulatory assets (for losses) or regulatory liabilities (for gains) in accordance with the accounting guidance for “Regulated Operations.”

Accounting for Fair Value Hedging Strategies

 

For fair value hedges (i.e. hedging the exposure to changes in the fair value of an asset, liability or an identified portion thereof attributable to a particular risk), the gain or loss on the derivative instrument as well as the offsetting gain or loss on the hedged item associated with the hedged risk impacts Net Income during the period of change.

 

The Registrant Subsidiaries record realized and unrealized gains or losses on interest rate swaps that qualify for fair value hedge accounting treatment and any offsetting changes in the fair value of the debt being hedged in Interest Expense on the condensed statements of income. During the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, the Registrant Subsidiaries did not designate any fair value hedging strategies.

Accounting for Cash Flow Hedging Strategies

 

For cash flow hedges (i.e. hedging the exposure to variability in expected future cash flows that is attributable to a particular risk), the Registrant Subsidiaries initially report the effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative instrument as a component of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on the condensed balance sheets until the period the hedged item affects Net Income. The Registrant Subsidiaries recognize any hedge ineffectiveness in Net Income immediately during the period of change, except in regulated jurisdictions where hedge ineffectiveness is recorded as a regulatory asset (for losses) or a regulatory liability (for gains).

 

Realized gains and losses on derivative contracts for the purchase and sale of power, coal and natural gas designated as cash flow hedges are included in Revenues, Fuel and Other Consumables Used for Electric Generation or Purchased Electricity for Resale on the condensed statements of income, or in Regulatory Assets or Regulatory Liabilities on the condensed balance sheets, depending on the specific nature of the risk being hedged. During the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, APCo, I&M and OPCo designated power, coal and natural gas derivatives as cash flow hedges.

 

The Registrant Subsidiaries reclassify gains and losses on heating oil and gasoline derivative contracts designated as cash flow hedges from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on the condensed balance sheets into Other Operation expense, Maintenance expense or Depreciation and Amortization expense, as it relates to capital projects, on the condensed statements of income. During the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, the Registrant Subsidiaries designated heating oil and gasoline derivatives as cash flow hedges.

 

The Registrant Subsidiaries reclassify gains and losses on interest rate derivative hedges related to debt financings from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on the condensed balance sheets into Interest Expense on the condensed statements of income in those periods in which hedged interest payments occur. During the three months ended March 31, 2013, I&M designated interest rate derivatives as cash flow hedges. During the three months ended March 31, 2012, I&M and SWEPCo designated interest rate derivatives as cash flow hedges.

 

The accumulated gains or losses related to foreign currency hedges are reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on the condensed balance sheets into Depreciation and Amortization expense on the condensed statements of income over the depreciable lives of the fixed assets designated as the hedged items in qualifying foreign currency hedging relationships. During the three months ended March 31, 2013, the Registrant Subsidiaries did not designate any foreign currency derivatives as cash flow hedges. During the three months ended March 31, 2012, SWEPCo designated foreign currency derivatives as cash flow hedges.

 

During the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, hedge ineffectiveness was immaterial or nonexistent for all of the hedge strategies disclosed above.

 

For details on designated, effective cash flow hedges included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on the condensed balance sheets and the reasons for changes in cash flow hedges for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, see Note 2.

Cash flow hedges included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on the condensed balance sheets as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 were:

 Impact of Cash Flow Hedges on the Registrant Subsidiaries’
 Condensed Balance Sheets
 March 31, 2013
  
    Hedging Assets (a) Hedging Liabilities (a) AOCI Gain (Loss) Net of Tax
      Interest Rate   Interest Rate   Interest Rate
      and Foreign    and Foreign    and Foreign
 Company Commodity Currency Commodity Currency Commodity Currency
    (in thousands)
 APCo $ 987 $ - $ 450 $ - $ 361 $ 2,330
 I&M   660   -   311   -   236   (17,206)
 OPCo   1,372   -   636   -   494   7,755
 PSO   61   -   1   -   44   6,270
 SWEPCo   73   -   2   -   51   (15,004)

    Expected to be Reclassified to   
    Net Income During the Next   
    Twelve Months   
        Maximum Term for
      Interest Rate Exposure to
      and Foreign  Variability of Future
 Company Commodity Currency Cash Flows
    (in thousands) (in months)
 APCo $ 363 $ (1,013)   21
 I&M   235   (1,640)   21
 OPCo   495   1,359   21
 PSO   41   759   21
 SWEPCo   49   (2,267)   21

 Impact of Cash Flow Hedges on the Registrant Subsidiaries’
 Condensed Balance Sheets
 December 31, 2012
  
    Hedging Assets (a) Hedging Liabilities (a) AOCI Gain (Loss) Net of Tax
      Interest Rate   Interest Rate   Interest Rate
      and Foreign    and Foreign    and Foreign
 Company Commodity Currency Commodity Currency Commodity Currency
    (in thousands)
 APCo $ 302 $ - $ 1,355 $ - $ (644) $ 2,077
 I&M   200   -   931   19,524   (446)   (19,647)
 OPCo   416   -   1,903   -   (912)   8,095
 PSO   25   -   -   -   21   6,460
 SWEPCo   24   -   -   -   22   (15,571)

    Expected to be Reclassified to 
    Net Income During the Next 
    Twelve Months 
      Interest Rate 
      and Foreign  
 Company Commodity Currency 
    (in thousands) 
 APCo $ (507) $ (1,013) 
 I&M   (355)   (1,600) 
 OPCo   (720)   1,359 
 PSO   21   759 
 SWEPCo   22   (2,267) 

(a)       Hedging Assets and Hedging Liabilities are included in Risk Management Assets and Liabilities on the condensed balance sheets.

 

The actual amounts reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) to Net Income can differ from the estimate above due to market price changes.

Credit Risk

 

AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, limits credit risk in their wholesale marketing and trading activities by assessing the creditworthiness of potential counterparties before entering into transactions with them and continuing to evaluate their creditworthiness on an ongoing basis. AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, uses Moody's, Standard and Poor's and current market-based qualitative and quantitative data as well as financial statements to assess the financial health of counterparties on an ongoing basis.

 

When AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, uses standardized master agreements, AEPSC may include collateral requirements. These master agreements facilitate the netting of cash flows associated with a single counterparty. Cash, letters of credit and parental/affiliate guarantees may be obtained as security from counterparties in order to mitigate credit risk. The collateral agreements require a counterparty to post cash or letters of credit in the event an exposure exceeds the established threshold. The threshold represents an unsecured credit limit which may be supported by a parental/affiliate guaranty, as determined in accordance with AEP's credit policy. In addition, collateral agreements allow for termination and liquidation of all positions in the event of a failure or inability to post collateral.

Collateral Triggering Events

 

Under the tariffs of the RTOs and Independent System Operators (ISOs) and a limited number of derivative and non-derivative contracts primarily related to competitive retail auction loads, the Registrant Subsidiaries are obligated to post an additional amount of collateral if certain credit ratings decline below investment grade. The amount of collateral required fluctuates based on market prices and total exposure. On an ongoing basis, AEP's risk management organization assesses the appropriateness of these collateral triggering items in contracts. The Registrant Subsidiaries have not experienced a downgrade below investment grade. The following tables represent: (a) the Registrant Subsidiaries' fair values of such derivative contracts, (b) the amount of collateral the Registrant Subsidiaries would have been required to post for all derivative and non-derivative contracts if credit ratings of the Registrant Subsidiaries had declined below investment grade and (c) how much was attributable to RTO and ISO activities as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012:

    March 31, 2013
    Liabilities for Amount of Collateral the Amount
    Derivative Contracts Registrant Subsidiaries Attributable to
    with Credit Would Have Been RTO and ISO
 Company Downgrade Triggers Required to Post Activities
    (in thousands)
 APCo $ 1,377 $ 3,635 $ 3,531
 I&M   951   2,512   2,440
 OPCo   1,946   5,140   4,992
 PSO   -   625   562
 SWEPCo   -   736   662

    December 31, 2012
    Liabilities for Amount of Collateral the Amount
    Derivative Contracts Registrant Subsidiaries Attributable to
    with Credit  Would Have Been RTO and ISO
 Company Downgrade Triggers Required to Post Activities
    (in thousands)
 APCo $ 2,159 $ 3,699 $ 3,510
 I&M   1,483   2,540   2,411
 OPCo   3,034   5,198   4,933
 PSO   -   1,509   1,429
 SWEPCo   -   1,778   1,683

In addition, a majority of the Registrant Subsidiaries' non-exchange traded commodity contracts contain cross-default provisions that, if triggered, would permit the counterparty to declare a default and require settlement of the outstanding payable. These cross-default provisions could be triggered if there was a non-performance event by Parent or the obligor under outstanding debt or a third party obligation in excess of $50 million. On an ongoing basis, AEP's risk management organization assesses the appropriateness of these cross-default provisions in the contracts. The following tables represent: (a) the fair value of these derivative liabilities subject to cross-default provisions prior to consideration of contractual netting arrangements, (b) the amount this exposure has been reduced by cash collateral posted by the Registrant Subsidiaries and (c) if a cross-default provision would have been triggered, the settlement amount that would be required after considering the Registrant Subsidiaries' contractual netting arrangements as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012:

    March 31, 2013
    Liabilities for   Additional
    Contracts with Cross   Settlement
    Default Provisions   Liability if Cross
    Prior to Contractual Amount of Cash Default Provision
 Company Netting Arrangements Collateral Posted is Triggered
    (in thousands)
 APCo $ 32,626 $ - $ 20,446
 I&M   22,546   -   14,129
 OPCo   46,131   -   28,909
 PSO   11   -   9
 SWEPCo   12   -   11
            
    December 31, 2012
    Liabilities for   Additional
    Contracts with Cross   Settlement
    Default Provisions   Liability if Cross
    Prior to Contractual Amount of Cash Default Provision
 Company Netting Arrangements Collateral Posted is Triggered
    (in thousands)
 APCo $ 49,465 $ 1,822 $ 30,160
 I&M   53,499   1,252   40,240
 OPCo   69,516   2,561   42,386
 PSO   -   -   -
 SWEPCo   -   -   -
Southwestern Electric Power Co [Member]
 
Derivatives and Hedging

8. DERIVATIVES AND HEDGING

 

OBJECTIVES FOR UTILIZATION OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

 

The Registrant Subsidiaries are exposed to certain market risks as major power producers and marketers of wholesale electricity, coal and emission allowances. These risks include commodity price risk, interest rate risk, credit risk and, to a lesser extent, foreign currency exchange risk. These risks represent the risk of loss that may impact the Registrant Subsidiaries due to changes in the underlying market prices or rates. AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, manages these risks using derivative instruments.

STRATEGIES FOR UTILIZATION OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS TO ACHIEVE OBJECTIVES

 

Risk Management Strategies

 

The strategy surrounding the use of derivative instruments primarily focuses on managing risk exposures, future cash flows and creating value utilizing both economic and formal hedging strategies. The risk management strategies also include the use of derivative instruments for trading purposes, focusing on seizing market opportunities to create value driven by expected changes in the market prices of the commodities in which AEPSC transacts on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries. To accomplish these objectives, AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, primarily employs risk management contracts including physical and financial forward purchase-and-sale contracts and, to a lesser extent, OTC swaps and options. Not all risk management contracts meet the definition of a derivative under the accounting guidance for “Derivatives and Hedging.” Derivative risk management contracts elected normal under the normal purchases and normal sales scope exception are not subject to the requirements of this accounting guidance.

 

AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, enters into power, coal, natural gas, interest rate and, to a lesser degree, heating oil and gasoline, emission allowance and other commodity contracts to manage the risk associated with the energy business. AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, enters into interest rate derivative contracts in order to manage the interest rate exposure associated with the Registrant Subsidiaries' commodity portfolio. For disclosure purposes, such risks are grouped as “Commodity,” as these risks are related to energy risk management activities. AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, also engages in risk management of interest rate risk associated with debt financing and foreign currency risk associated with future purchase obligations denominated in foreign currencies. For disclosure purposes, these risks are grouped as “Interest Rate and Foreign Currency.” The amount of risk taken is determined by the Commercial Operations and Finance groups in accordance with established risk management policies as approved by the Finance Committee of AEP's Board of Directors.

 

The following tables represent the gross notional volume of the Registrant Subsidiaries' outstanding derivative contracts as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012:

Notional Volume of Derivative Instruments
March 31, 2013
                    
Primary Risk Unit of               
Exposure Measure APCo I&M OPCo PSO SWEPCo
      (in thousands)
Commodity:                 
 Power MWhs   62,679   43,390   88,625   8   9
 Coal Tons   932   2,175   2,213   1,489   789
 Natural Gas MMBtus   8,213   5,676   11,613   -   -
 Heating Oil and                 
  Gasoline Gallons   1,177   580   1,386   589   724
 Interest Rate USD $ 22,108 $ 15,278 $ 31,259 $ - $ -
                    
Interest Rate and                 
 Foreign Currency USD $ - $ - $ - $ - $ -
                    
Notional Volume of Derivative Instruments
December 31, 2012
                    
Primary Risk Unit of               
Exposure Measure APCo I&M OPCo PSO SWEPCo
      (in thousands)
Commodity:                 
 Power MWhs   94,059   64,791   132,188   -   -
 Coal Tons   1,401   2,711   3,033   1,980   1,312
 Natural Gas MMBtus   10,077   6,922   14,163   -   -
 Heating Oil and                 
  Gasoline Gallons   1,050   532   1,260   616   585
 Interest Rate USD $ 24,146 $ 16,584 $ 33,934 $ - $ -
                    
Interest Rate and                 
 Foreign Currency USD $ - $ 200,000 $ - $ - $ -

Fair Value Hedging Strategies

 

AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, enters into interest rate derivative transactions as part of an overall strategy to manage the mix of fixed-rate and floating-rate debt. Certain interest rate derivative transactions effectively modify an exposure to interest rate risk by converting a portion of fixed-rate debt to a floating rate. Provided specific criteria are met, these interest rate derivatives are designated as fair value hedges.

Cash Flow Hedging Strategies

 

AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, enters into and designates as cash flow hedges certain derivative transactions for the purchase and sale of power, coal, natural gas and heating oil and gasoline (“Commodity”) in order to manage the variable price risk related to the forecasted purchase and sale of these commodities. Management monitors the potential impacts of commodity price changes and, where appropriate, enters into derivative transactions to protect profit margins for a portion of future electricity sales and fuel or energy purchases. The Registrant Subsidiaries do not hedge all commodity price risk.

 

The Registrant Subsidiaries' vehicle fleet is exposed to gasoline and diesel fuel price volatility. AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, enters into financial heating oil and gasoline derivative contracts in order to mitigate price risk of future fuel purchases. For disclosure purposes, these contracts are included with other hedging activities as “Commodity.” The Registrant Subsidiaries do not hedge all fuel price risk.

 

AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, enters into a variety of interest rate derivative transactions in order to manage interest rate risk exposure. Some interest rate derivative transactions effectively modify exposure to interest rate risk by converting a portion of floating-rate debt to a fixed rate. AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, also enters into interest rate derivative contracts to manage interest rate exposure related to future borrowings of fixed-rate debt. The forecasted fixed-rate debt offerings have a high probability of occurrence as the proceeds will be used to fund existing debt maturities and projected capital expenditures. The Registrant Subsidiaries do not hedge all interest rate exposure.

 

At times, the Registrant Subsidiaries are exposed to foreign currency exchange rate risks primarily when some fixed assets are purchased from foreign suppliers. In accordance with AEP's risk management policy, AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, may enter into foreign currency derivative transactions to protect against the risk of increased cash outflows resulting from a foreign currency's appreciation against the dollar. The Registrant Subsidiaries do not hedge all foreign currency exposure.

ACCOUNTING FOR DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND THE IMPACT ON THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

The accounting guidance for “Derivatives and Hedging” requires recognition of all qualifying derivative instruments as either assets or liabilities on the condensed balance sheet at fair value. The fair values of derivative instruments accounted for using MTM accounting or hedge accounting are based on exchange prices and broker quotes. If a quoted market price is not available, the estimate of fair value is based on the best information available including valuation models that estimate future energy prices based on existing market and broker quotes, supply and demand market data and assumptions. In order to determine the relevant fair values of the derivative instruments, the Registrant Subsidiaries also apply valuation adjustments for discounting, liquidity and credit quality.

 

Credit risk is the risk that a counterparty will fail to perform on the contract or fail to pay amounts due. Liquidity risk represents the risk that imperfections in the market will cause the price to vary from estimated fair value based upon prevailing market supply and demand conditions. Since energy markets are imperfect and volatile, there are inherent risks related to the underlying assumptions in models used to fair value risk management contracts. Unforeseen events may cause reasonable price curves to differ from actual price curves throughout a contract's term and at the time a contract settles. Consequently, there could be significant adverse or favorable effects on future net income and cash flows if market prices are not consistent with management's estimates of current market consensus for forward prices in the current period. This is particularly true for longer term contracts. Cash flows may vary based on market conditions, margin requirements and the timing of settlement of risk management contracts.

 

According to the accounting guidance for “Derivatives and Hedging,” the Registrant Subsidiaries reflect the fair values of derivative instruments subject to netting agreements with the same counterparty net of related cash collateral. For certain risk management contracts, the Registrant Subsidiaries are required to post or receive cash collateral based on third party contractual agreements and risk profiles. For the March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 condensed balance sheets, the Registrant Subsidiaries netted cash collateral received from third parties against short-term and long-term risk management assets and cash collateral paid to third parties against short-term and long-term risk management liabilities as follows:

    March 31, 2013 December 31, 2012
    Cash Collateral Cash Collateral Cash Collateral Cash Collateral
    Received Paid Received Paid
    Netted Against Netted Against Netted Against Netted Against
    Risk Management Risk Management Risk Management Risk Management
 Company Assets Liabilities Assets Liabilities
    (in thousands)
 APCo $ 1,837 $ 4,888 $ 1,262 $ 11,029
 I&M   1,270   3,378   867   7,576
 OPCo   2,598   6,912   1,774   15,500
 PSO   -   1   -   -
 SWEPCo   -   2   -   -

The following tables represent the gross fair value of the Registrant Subsidiaries' derivative activity on the condensed balance sheets as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012:

SWEPCo                  
Fair Value of Derivative Instruments
March 31, 2013
                    
  Risk     Gross Amounts Gross Net Amounts of
  Management     of Risk Amounts Assets/Liabilities
  Contracts Hedging Contracts Management Offset in the Presented in the
       Interest Rate Assets/ Statement of Statement of
      and Foreign Liabilities Financial Financial
Balance Sheet Location Commodity (a) Commodity (a) Currency (a) Recognized Position (b) Position (c)
                    
  (in thousands)
Current Risk Management Assets $2,765 $69 $- $2,834 $(2,107) $727
Long-term Risk Management Assets  -  4  -  4  -  4
Total Assets  2,765  73  -  2,838  (2,107)  731
                   
Current Risk Management Liabilities  2,931  -  -  2,931  (2,107)  824
Long-term Risk Management Liabilities   -  2  -  2  (2)  -
Total Liabilities  2,931  2  -  2,933  (2,109)  824
                   
Total MTM Derivative Contract Net                  
 Assets (Liabilities) $(166) $71 $- $(95) $2 $(93)
                   
SWEPCo                  
Fair Value of Derivative Instruments
December 31, 2012
                    
  Risk     Gross Amounts Gross Net Amounts of
  Management     of Risk Amounts Assets/Liabilities
  Contracts Hedging Contracts Management Offset in the Presented in the
       Interest Rate Assets/ Statement of Statement of
      and Foreign Liabilities Financial Financial
Balance Sheet Location Commodity (a) Commodity (a) Currency (a) Recognized Position (b) Position (c)
                    
  (in thousands)
Current Risk Management Assets $2,804 $41 $- $2,845 $(2,150) $695
Long-term Risk Management Assets  -  -  -  -  -  -
Total Assets  2,804  41  -  2,845  (2,150)  695
                   
Current Risk Management Liabilities  3,261  17  -  3,278  (2,150)  1,128
Long-term Risk Management Liabilities   -  -  -  -  -  -
Total Liabilities  3,261  17  -  3,278  (2,150)  1,128
                   
Total MTM Derivative Contract Net                  
 Assets (Liabilities) $(457) $24 $- $(433) $- $(433)

(a)       Derivative instruments within these categories are reported gross. These instruments are subject to master netting agreements and are presented on the condensed balance sheets on a net basis in accordance with the accounting guidance for "Derivatives and Hedging."

(b)       Amounts include counterparty netting of risk management and hedging contracts and associated cash collateral in accordance with the accounting guidance for "Derivatives and Hedging."

(c)       There are no derivative contracts subject to a master netting arrangement or similar agreement which are not offset in the statement of financial position.

The tables below present the Registrant Subsidiaries' activity of derivative risk management contracts for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012:

 Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized on
 Risk Management Contracts
 For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2013
  
 Location of Gain (Loss) APCo I&M OPCo PSO SWEPCo
     (in thousands)
 Electric Generation, Transmission and               
  Distribution Revenues $ 679 $ 4,947 $ 1,714 $ 47 $ 28
 Sales to AEP Affiliates   -   -   -   -   -
 Fuel and Other Consumables Used for               
  Electric Generation   -   -   -   -   -
 Regulatory Assets (a)   -   486   (1,205)   2,010   271
 Regulatory Liabilities (a)   (466)   (5,182)   -   1   96
 Total Gain (Loss) on Risk Management               
  Contracts $ 213 $ 251 $ 509 $ 2,058 $ 395
                   
 Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized on
 Risk Management Contracts
 For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2012
  
 Location of Gain (Loss) APCo I&M OPCo PSO SWEPCo
     (in thousands)
 Electric Generation, Transmission and               
  Distribution Revenues $ (327) $ 2,813 $ 8,493 $ (5) $ (51)
 Sales to AEP Affiliates   -   -   -   -   -
 Fuel and Other Consumables Used for               
  Electric Generation   -   -   -   -   -
 Regulatory Assets (a)   (3,481)   (3,110)   (3,131)   (5,201)   (6,727)
 Regulatory Liabilities (a)   6,409   6,726   -   27   21
 Total Gain (Loss) on Risk Management               
  Contracts $ 2,601 $ 6,429 $ 5,362 $ (5,179) $ (6,757)
                   
 (a) Represents realized and unrealized gains and losses subject to regulatory accounting treatment recorded as either current
  or noncurrent on the condensed balance sheets.

Certain qualifying derivative instruments have been designated as normal purchase or normal sale contracts, as provided in the accounting guidance for “Derivatives and Hedging.” Derivative contracts that have been designated as normal purchases or normal sales under that accounting guidance are not subject to MTM accounting treatment and are recognized on the condensed statements of income on an accrual basis.

 

The accounting for the changes in the fair value of a derivative instrument depends on whether it qualifies for and has been designated as part of a hedging relationship and further, on the type of hedging relationship. Depending on the exposure, management designates a hedging instrument as a fair value hedge or a cash flow hedge.

 

For contracts that have not been designated as part of a hedging relationship, the accounting for changes in fair value depends on whether the derivative instrument is held for trading purposes. Unrealized and realized gains and losses on derivative instruments held for trading purposes are included in revenues on a net basis on the condensed statements of income. Unrealized and realized gains and losses on derivative instruments not held for trading purposes are included in revenues or expenses on the condensed statements of income depending on the relevant facts and circumstances. However, unrealized and some realized gains and losses in regulated jurisdictions (APCo, I&M, PSO and SWEPCo) for both trading and non-trading derivative instruments are recorded as regulatory assets (for losses) or regulatory liabilities (for gains) in accordance with the accounting guidance for “Regulated Operations.”

Accounting for Fair Value Hedging Strategies

 

For fair value hedges (i.e. hedging the exposure to changes in the fair value of an asset, liability or an identified portion thereof attributable to a particular risk), the gain or loss on the derivative instrument as well as the offsetting gain or loss on the hedged item associated with the hedged risk impacts Net Income during the period of change.

 

The Registrant Subsidiaries record realized and unrealized gains or losses on interest rate swaps that qualify for fair value hedge accounting treatment and any offsetting changes in the fair value of the debt being hedged in Interest Expense on the condensed statements of income. During the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, the Registrant Subsidiaries did not designate any fair value hedging strategies.

Accounting for Cash Flow Hedging Strategies

 

For cash flow hedges (i.e. hedging the exposure to variability in expected future cash flows that is attributable to a particular risk), the Registrant Subsidiaries initially report the effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative instrument as a component of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on the condensed balance sheets until the period the hedged item affects Net Income. The Registrant Subsidiaries recognize any hedge ineffectiveness in Net Income immediately during the period of change, except in regulated jurisdictions where hedge ineffectiveness is recorded as a regulatory asset (for losses) or a regulatory liability (for gains).

 

Realized gains and losses on derivative contracts for the purchase and sale of power, coal and natural gas designated as cash flow hedges are included in Revenues, Fuel and Other Consumables Used for Electric Generation or Purchased Electricity for Resale on the condensed statements of income, or in Regulatory Assets or Regulatory Liabilities on the condensed balance sheets, depending on the specific nature of the risk being hedged. During the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, APCo, I&M and OPCo designated power, coal and natural gas derivatives as cash flow hedges.

 

The Registrant Subsidiaries reclassify gains and losses on heating oil and gasoline derivative contracts designated as cash flow hedges from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on the condensed balance sheets into Other Operation expense, Maintenance expense or Depreciation and Amortization expense, as it relates to capital projects, on the condensed statements of income. During the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, the Registrant Subsidiaries designated heating oil and gasoline derivatives as cash flow hedges.

 

The Registrant Subsidiaries reclassify gains and losses on interest rate derivative hedges related to debt financings from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on the condensed balance sheets into Interest Expense on the condensed statements of income in those periods in which hedged interest payments occur. During the three months ended March 31, 2013, I&M designated interest rate derivatives as cash flow hedges. During the three months ended March 31, 2012, I&M and SWEPCo designated interest rate derivatives as cash flow hedges.

 

The accumulated gains or losses related to foreign currency hedges are reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on the condensed balance sheets into Depreciation and Amortization expense on the condensed statements of income over the depreciable lives of the fixed assets designated as the hedged items in qualifying foreign currency hedging relationships. During the three months ended March 31, 2013, the Registrant Subsidiaries did not designate any foreign currency derivatives as cash flow hedges. During the three months ended March 31, 2012, SWEPCo designated foreign currency derivatives as cash flow hedges.

 

During the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, hedge ineffectiveness was immaterial or nonexistent for all of the hedge strategies disclosed above.

 

For details on designated, effective cash flow hedges included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on the condensed balance sheets and the reasons for changes in cash flow hedges for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, see Note 2.

Cash flow hedges included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on the condensed balance sheets as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 were:

 Impact of Cash Flow Hedges on the Registrant Subsidiaries’
 Condensed Balance Sheets
 March 31, 2013
  
    Hedging Assets (a) Hedging Liabilities (a) AOCI Gain (Loss) Net of Tax
      Interest Rate   Interest Rate   Interest Rate
      and Foreign    and Foreign    and Foreign
 Company Commodity Currency Commodity Currency Commodity Currency
    (in thousands)
 APCo $ 987 $ - $ 450 $ - $ 361 $ 2,330
 I&M   660   -   311   -   236   (17,206)
 OPCo   1,372   -   636   -   494   7,755
 PSO   61   -   1   -   44   6,270
 SWEPCo   73   -   2   -   51   (15,004)

    Expected to be Reclassified to   
    Net Income During the Next   
    Twelve Months   
        Maximum Term for
      Interest Rate Exposure to
      and Foreign  Variability of Future
 Company Commodity Currency Cash Flows
    (in thousands) (in months)
 APCo $ 363 $ (1,013)   21
 I&M   235   (1,640)   21
 OPCo   495   1,359   21
 PSO   41   759   21
 SWEPCo   49   (2,267)   21

 Impact of Cash Flow Hedges on the Registrant Subsidiaries’
 Condensed Balance Sheets
 December 31, 2012
  
    Hedging Assets (a) Hedging Liabilities (a) AOCI Gain (Loss) Net of Tax
      Interest Rate   Interest Rate   Interest Rate
      and Foreign    and Foreign    and Foreign
 Company Commodity Currency Commodity Currency Commodity Currency
    (in thousands)
 APCo $ 302 $ - $ 1,355 $ - $ (644) $ 2,077
 I&M   200   -   931   19,524   (446)   (19,647)
 OPCo   416   -   1,903   -   (912)   8,095
 PSO   25   -   -   -   21   6,460
 SWEPCo   24   -   -   -   22   (15,571)

    Expected to be Reclassified to 
    Net Income During the Next 
    Twelve Months 
      Interest Rate 
      and Foreign  
 Company Commodity Currency 
    (in thousands) 
 APCo $ (507) $ (1,013) 
 I&M   (355)   (1,600) 
 OPCo   (720)   1,359 
 PSO   21   759 
 SWEPCo   22   (2,267) 

(a)       Hedging Assets and Hedging Liabilities are included in Risk Management Assets and Liabilities on the condensed balance sheets.

 

The actual amounts reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) to Net Income can differ from the estimate above due to market price changes.

Credit Risk

 

AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, limits credit risk in their wholesale marketing and trading activities by assessing the creditworthiness of potential counterparties before entering into transactions with them and continuing to evaluate their creditworthiness on an ongoing basis. AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, uses Moody's, Standard and Poor's and current market-based qualitative and quantitative data as well as financial statements to assess the financial health of counterparties on an ongoing basis.

 

When AEPSC, on behalf of the Registrant Subsidiaries, uses standardized master agreements, AEPSC may include collateral requirements. These master agreements facilitate the netting of cash flows associated with a single counterparty. Cash, letters of credit and parental/affiliate guarantees may be obtained as security from counterparties in order to mitigate credit risk. The collateral agreements require a counterparty to post cash or letters of credit in the event an exposure exceeds the established threshold. The threshold represents an unsecured credit limit which may be supported by a parental/affiliate guaranty, as determined in accordance with AEP's credit policy. In addition, collateral agreements allow for termination and liquidation of all positions in the event of a failure or inability to post collateral.

Collateral Triggering Events

 

Under the tariffs of the RTOs and Independent System Operators (ISOs) and a limited number of derivative and non-derivative contracts primarily related to competitive retail auction loads, the Registrant Subsidiaries are obligated to post an additional amount of collateral if certain credit ratings decline below investment grade. The amount of collateral required fluctuates based on market prices and total exposure. On an ongoing basis, AEP's risk management organization assesses the appropriateness of these collateral triggering items in contracts. The Registrant Subsidiaries have not experienced a downgrade below investment grade. The following tables represent: (a) the Registrant Subsidiaries' fair values of such derivative contracts, (b) the amount of collateral the Registrant Subsidiaries would have been required to post for all derivative and non-derivative contracts if credit ratings of the Registrant Subsidiaries had declined below investment grade and (c) how much was attributable to RTO and ISO activities as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012:

    March 31, 2013
    Liabilities for Amount of Collateral the Amount
    Derivative Contracts Registrant Subsidiaries Attributable to
    with Credit Would Have Been RTO and ISO
 Company Downgrade Triggers Required to Post Activities
    (in thousands)
 APCo $ 1,377 $ 3,635 $ 3,531
 I&M   951   2,512   2,440
 OPCo   1,946   5,140   4,992
 PSO   -   625   562
 SWEPCo   -   736   662

    December 31, 2012
    Liabilities for Amount of Collateral the Amount
    Derivative Contracts Registrant Subsidiaries Attributable to
    with Credit  Would Have Been RTO and ISO
 Company Downgrade Triggers Required to Post Activities
    (in thousands)
 APCo $ 2,159 $ 3,699 $ 3,510
 I&M   1,483   2,540   2,411
 OPCo   3,034   5,198   4,933
 PSO   -   1,509   1,429
 SWEPCo   -   1,778   1,683

In addition, a majority of the Registrant Subsidiaries' non-exchange traded commodity contracts contain cross-default provisions that, if triggered, would permit the counterparty to declare a default and require settlement of the outstanding payable. These cross-default provisions could be triggered if there was a non-performance event by Parent or the obligor under outstanding debt or a third party obligation in excess of $50 million. On an ongoing basis, AEP's risk management organization assesses the appropriateness of these cross-default provisions in the contracts. The following tables represent: (a) the fair value of these derivative liabilities subject to cross-default provisions prior to consideration of contractual netting arrangements, (b) the amount this exposure has been reduced by cash collateral posted by the Registrant Subsidiaries and (c) if a cross-default provision would have been triggered, the settlement amount that would be required after considering the Registrant Subsidiaries' contractual netting arrangements as of March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012:

    March 31, 2013
    Liabilities for   Additional
    Contracts with Cross   Settlement
    Default Provisions   Liability if Cross
    Prior to Contractual Amount of Cash Default Provision
 Company Netting Arrangements Collateral Posted is Triggered
    (in thousands)
 APCo $ 32,626 $ - $ 20,446
 I&M   22,546   -   14,129
 OPCo   46,131   -   28,909
 PSO   11   -   9
 SWEPCo   12   -   11
            
    December 31, 2012
    Liabilities for   Additional
    Contracts with Cross   Settlement
    Default Provisions   Liability if Cross
    Prior to Contractual Amount of Cash Default Provision
 Company Netting Arrangements Collateral Posted is Triggered
    (in thousands)
 APCo $ 49,465 $ 1,822 $ 30,160
 I&M   53,499   1,252   40,240
 OPCo   69,516   2,561   42,386
 PSO   -   -   -
 SWEPCo   -   -   -