PLAINS GP HOLDINGS, L.P. Introduction
The following discussion is intended to provide investors with an understanding of our financial condition and results of our operations and should be read in conjunction with our historical Consolidated Financial Statements and accompanying notes and Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations as presented in our 2020 Annual Report on Form 10-K. For more detailed information regarding the basis of presentation for the following financial information, see the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and related notes that are contained in Part I, Item 1 of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.
Our discussion and analysis includes the following:
•Executive Summary •Results of Operations •Liquidity and Capital Resources •Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements •Recent Accounting Pronouncements •Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates •Forward-Looking Statements Executive Summary Company Overview We are aDelaware limited partnership formed onJuly 17, 2013 that has elected to be taxed as a corporation forUnited States federal income tax purposes. As ofMarch 31, 2021 , our sole cash-generating assets consisted of (i) a 100% managing member interest inPlains All American GP LLC ("GP LLC ") that has also elected to be taxed as a corporation forUnited States federal income tax purposes and (ii) an approximate 79% limited partner interest in AAP through our direct ownership of approximately 193.1 million AAP units and indirect ownership of approximately 1.0 million AAP units throughGP LLC .GP LLC is aDelaware limited liability company that also holds the non-economic general partner interest in AAP. AAP is aDelaware limited partnership that, as ofMarch 31, 2021 , directly owned a limited partner interest in PAA through its ownership of approximately 245.5 million PAA common units (approximately 31% of PAA's total outstanding common units and Series A preferred units combined). AAP is the sole member ofPAA GP LLC ("PAA GP"), aDelaware limited liability company that directly holds the non-economic general partner interest in PAA. PAA's business model integrates large-scale supply aggregation capabilities with the ownership and operation of critical midstream infrastructure systems that connect major producing regions to key demand centers and export terminals. As one of the largest midstream service providers inNorth America , we own an extensive network of pipeline transportation, terminalling, storage and gathering assets in key crude oil and NGL producing basins (including thePermian Basin ) and transportation corridors and at major market hubs inthe United States andCanada . PAA's assets and the services it provides are primarily focused on crude oil, NGL and natural gas. PAA's business activities are conducted through three operating segments: Transportation, Facilities and Supply and Logistics. See "-Results of Operations-Analysis of Operating Segments" for further discussion. 33
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Table of Contents Overview of Operating Results, Capital Investments and Other Significant Activities
During the first three months of 2021, we recognized net income of$392 million as compared to a net loss of$2.692 billion recognized during the first three months of 2020. The net loss for the 2020 period was primarily driven by goodwill impairment losses of$2.515 billion and was also impacted by non-cash impairment charges of approximately$655 million related to the write-down of certain pipeline and other long-lived assets, certain of our investments in unconsolidated entities, and assets upon classification as held for sale. In addition, we recognized approximately$232 million of inventory valuation adjustments due to declines in commodity prices primarily during the first quarter of 2020.
Our results for the comparative periods were also driven by:
•More favorable results from our Supply and Logistics segment in the current
period due to the impact of the mark-to-market of certain derivative instruments
and inventory valuation adjustments, long-term inventory costing adjustments and
decreased field operating costs, partially offset by less favorable crude oil
market conditions and volumes due to decreased production related to the
COVID-19 pandemic and lower realized NGL margins;
•Less favorable results from our Transportation segment in the current period
due to the impact of lower volumes driven by the COVID-19 pandemic-related reset
to North American production, compounded by production shut-ins from the extreme
winter weather event that occurred in February of 2021 ("Winter Storm Uri"),
which was partially offset by the recognition of revenue associated with minimum
volume commitments and lower power costs, including the impact of gains related
to hedged power costs resulting from Winter Storm Uri;
•Less favorable results from our Facilities segment in the current period due to
the impact of the sale of assets in 2020 and a benefit in the 2020 comparative
period from the receipt of a deficiency payment, partially offset by increased
margins from our natural gas storage operations due to favorable impacts from
hub activities related to Winter Storm Uri and lower field operating costs;
•A loss of $67 million in the current period from the mark-to-market of PAA's
Preferred Distribution Rate Reset Option compared to a gain of $26 million in
the 2020 period recognized in "Other expense, net," partially offset by
favorable foreign currency impacts of $7 million in the current period compared
to unfavorable foreign currency impacts of $59 million in the 2020 period;
•A gain of $21 million recognized in the 2020 period related to the sale of a
portion of our interest in Saddlehorn Pipeline Company, LLC in February 2020 ;
and
•The unfavorable income tax impact of higher income attributable to PAGP in the current period as a result of higher earnings at PAA.
See further discussion of our operating results in the "-Results of Operations-Analysis of Operating Segments" and "-Other Income and Expenses" sections below.
We invested
We paid cash distributions of approximately
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Results of Operations
The following table sets forth an overview of our consolidated financial results calculated in accordance with GAAP (in millions, except per share data):
Three Months Ended
March 31, Variance
2021 2020 $ %
Transportation Segment Adjusted EBITDA (1) $ 388 $ 442 $ (54) (12) %
Facilities Segment Adjusted EBITDA (1) 171 210 (39) (19) %
Supply and Logistics Segment Adjusted EBITDA (1) (13) 141 (154) (109) %
Adjustments:
Depreciation and amortization of unconsolidated entities (20) (17) (3) (18) % Selected items impacting comparability - Segment Adjusted EBITDA
267 (137) 404 **
Unallocated general and administrative expenses (1) (1) - - %
Depreciation and amortization (178) (169) (9) (5) %
Gains/(losses) on asset sales and asset impairments, net (2) (619) 617 100 %
Goodwill impairment losses - (2,515) 2,515 100 %
Gain on/(impairment of) investments in unconsolidated
entities, net - (22) 22 100 %
Interest expense, net (107) (108) 1 1 %
Other expense, net (60) (31) (29) (94) %
Income tax (expense)/benefit (53) 134 (187) (140) %
Net income/(loss) 392 (2,692) 3,084 115 %
Net (income)/loss attributable to noncontrolling
interests (322) 2,111 (2,433) (115) %
Net income/(loss) attributable to PAGP $ 70 $ (581) $ 651 112 %
Basic and diluted net income/(loss) per Class A share$ 0.36 $ (3.18) $ 3.54
111 %
Basic and diluted weighted average Class A shares outstanding 194 183 11 6 %
** Indicates that variance as a percentage is not meaningful. (1)Segment Adjusted EBITDA is the measure of segment performance that is utilized by our CODM to assess performance and allocate resources among our operating segments. This measure is adjusted for certain items, including those that our CODM believes impact comparability of results across periods. See Note 11 to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for additional discussion of such adjustments.
Non-GAAP Financial Measures
To supplement our financial information presented in accordance with GAAP, management uses additional measures known as "non-GAAP financial measures" in its evaluation of past performance and prospects for the future.
The primary additional measure used by management is earnings before interest,
taxes, depreciation and amortization (including our proportionate share of
depreciation and amortization of unconsolidated entities), gains and losses on
asset sales and asset impairments, goodwill impairment losses and gains on and
impairments of investments in unconsolidated entities, adjusted for certain
selected items impacting comparability ("Adjusted EBITDA").
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Our definition and calculation of certain non-GAAP financial measures may not be
comparable to similarly-titled measures of other companies. Adjusted EBITDA is
reconciled to Net Income/(Loss), the most directly comparable measure as
reported in accordance with GAAP, and should be viewed in addition to, and not
in lieu of, our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and accompanying
notes.
Management believes that the presentation of Adjusted EBITDA provides useful
information to investors regarding our performance and results of operations
because this measure, when used to supplement related GAAP financial measures,
(i) provides additional information about our core operating performance,
(ii) provides investors with the same financial analytical framework upon which
management bases financial, operational, compensation and planning/budgeting
decisions and (iii) presents measures that investors, rating agencies and debt
holders have indicated are useful in assessing us and our results of operations.
This non-GAAP measure may exclude, for example, (i) charges for obligations that
are expected to be settled with the issuance of equity instruments, (ii) gains
and losses on derivative instruments that are related to underlying activities
in another period (or the reversal of such adjustments from a prior period),
gains and losses on derivatives that are related to investing activities (such
as the purchase of linefill) and inventory valuation adjustments, as applicable,
(iii) long-term inventory costing adjustments, (iv) items that are not
indicative of our core operating results and business outlook and/or (v) other
items that we believe should be excluded in understanding our core operating
performance. This measure may further be adjusted to include amounts related to
deficiencies associated with minimum volume commitments whereby we have billed
the counterparties for their deficiency obligation and such amounts are
recognized as deferred revenue in "Other current liabilities" in our Condensed
Consolidated Financial Statements. Such amounts are presented net of applicable
amounts subsequently recognized into revenue. We have defined all such items as
"selected items impacting comparability." We do not necessarily consider all of
our selected items impacting comparability to be non-recurring, infrequent or
unusual, but we believe that an understanding of these selected items impacting
comparability is material to the evaluation of our operating results and
prospects.
Although we present selected items impacting comparability that management considers in evaluating our performance, you should also be aware that the items presented do not represent all items that affect comparability between the periods presented. Variations in our operating results are also caused by changes in volumes, prices, exchange rates, mechanical interruptions, acquisitions, divestitures, investment capital projects and numerous other factors as discussed, as applicable, in "-Analysis of Operating Segments."
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Table of Contents The following table sets forth the reconciliation of the non-GAAP financial performance measure Adjusted EBITDA from Net Income/(Loss) (in millions):
Three Months Ended
March 31, Variance
2021 2020 $ %
Net income/(loss) $ 392 $ (2,692) $ 3,084 115 %
Add/(Subtract):
Interest expense, net 107 108 (1) (1) %
Income tax expense/(benefit) 53 (134) 187 140 %
Depreciation and amortization 178 169 9 5 %
(Gains)/losses on asset sales and asset impairments, net 2 619 (617) (100) %
Goodwill impairment losses - 2,515 (2,515) (100) % (Gain on)/impairment of investments in unconsolidated entities, net
- 22 (22) (100) % Depreciation and amortization of unconsolidated entities (1)
20 17 3 18 %
Selected Items Impacting Comparability: (Gains)/losses from derivative activities and inventory valuation adjustments
(198) 30 (228) **
Long-term inventory costing adjustments (41) 115 (156) **
Deficiencies under minimum volume commitments, net (32) (2) (30) **
Equity-indexed compensation expense 5 4 1 **
Net gain on foreign currency revaluation (1) (13) 12 **
Significant acquisition-related expenses - 3 (3) **
Selected Items Impacting Comparability - Segment Adjusted EBITDA (2)
(267) 137 (404) **
(Gains)/losses from derivative activities (3) 67 (26) 93 **
Net (gain)/loss on foreign currency revaluation (4) (7) 59 (66) **
Selected Items Impacting Comparability - Adjusted EBITDA
(5) (207) 170 (377) **
Adjusted EBITDA (5) $ 545 $ 794 $ (249) (31) %
** Indicates that variance as a percentage is not meaningful.
(1)We exclude our proportionate share of the depreciation and amortization
expense of such unconsolidated entities when reviewing Adjusted EBITDA, similar
to our consolidated assets.
(2)For a more detailed discussion of these selected items impacting
comparability, see the footnotes to the Segment Adjusted EBITDA Reconciliation
table in Note 11 to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
(3)The Preferred Distribution Rate Reset Option of PAA's Series A preferred
units is accounted for as an embedded derivative and recorded at fair value in
our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. The associated gains and losses
are not integral to our results and were thus classified as a selected item
impacting comparability. See Note 8 to our Condensed Consolidated Financial
Statements for additional information regarding the Preferred Distribution Rate
Reset Option.
(4)During the periods presented, there were fluctuations in the value of the
Canadian dollar ("CAD") to the U.S. dollar ("USD"), resulting in the realization
of foreign exchange gains and losses on the settlement of foreign currency
transactions as well as the revaluation of monetary assets and liabilities
denominated in a foreign currency. The associated gains and losses are not
integral to our results and were thus classified as a selected item impacting
comparability.
(5)Other expense, net per our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations,
adjusted for selected items impacting comparability ("Adjusted Other
income/(expense), net") is included in Adjusted EBITDA and excluded from Segment
Adjusted EBITDA.
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Analysis of Operating Segments
We manage our operations through three operating segments: Transportation, Facilities and Supply and Logistics. Our CODM (our Chief Executive Officer) evaluates segment performance based on a variety of measures including Segment Adjusted EBITDA, segment volumes, Segment Adjusted EBITDA per barrel and maintenance capital investment.
We define Segment Adjusted EBITDA as revenues and equity earnings in unconsolidated entities less (a) purchases and related costs, (b) field operating costs and (c) segment general and administrative expenses, plus our proportionate share of the depreciation and amortization expense of unconsolidated entities, and further adjusted for certain selected items including (i) the mark-to-market of derivative instruments that are related to underlying activities in another period (or the reversal of such adjustments from a prior period), gains and losses on derivatives that are related to investing activities (such as the purchase of linefill) and inventory valuation adjustments, as applicable, (ii) long-term inventory costing adjustments, (iii) charges for obligations that are expected to be settled with the issuance of equity instruments, (iv) amounts related to deficiencies associated with minimum volume commitments, net of applicable amounts subsequently recognized into revenue and (v) other items that our CODM believes are integral to understanding our core segment operating performance. See Note 11 to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for a reconciliation of Segment Adjusted EBITDA to Net income/(loss) attributable to PAGP. Revenues and expenses from our Canadian based subsidiaries, which use CAD as their functional currency, are translated at the prevailing average exchange rates for the month. Transportation Segment Our Transportation segment operations generally consist of fee-based activities associated with transporting crude oil and NGL on pipelines, gathering systems and trucks. The Transportation segment generates revenue through a combination of tariffs, pipeline capacity agreements and other transportation fees. Tariffs and other fees on our pipeline systems vary by receipt point and delivery point. The segment results generated by our tariff and other fee-related activities depend on the volumes transported on the pipeline and the level of the tariff and other fees charged, as well as the fixed and variable field costs of operating the pipeline.
The following tables set forth our operating results from our Transportation segment:
Three Months Ended
Operating Results (1) March 31, Variance
(in millions, except per barrel data) 2021 2020 $ %
Revenues $ 487 $ 579 $ (92) (16) %
Purchases and related costs (46) (79) 33 42 %
Field operating costs (105) (162) 57 35 %
Segment general and administrative expenses (2) (26) (28) 2 7 %
Equity earnings in unconsolidated entities 86 108 (22) (20) %
Adjustments: (3)
Depreciation and amortization of unconsolidated entities 19 17 2 12 %
Losses from derivative activities and inventory valuation adjustments
- 6 (6) **
Deficiencies under minimum volume commitments, net (30) (4) (26) **
Equity-indexed compensation expense 3 2 1 **
Significant acquisition-related expenses - 3 (3) **
Segment Adjusted EBITDA $ 388 $ 442 $ (54) (12) %
Maintenance capital $ 26 $ 34 $ (8) (24) %
Segment Adjusted EBITDA per barrel $ 0.76 $ 0.67 $ 0.09 13 %
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Three Months Ended
Average Daily Volumes March 31, Variance
(in thousands of barrels per day) (4) 2021 2020 Volumes %
Tariff activities volumes
Crude oil pipelines (by region):
Permian Basin (5) 3,753 5,165 (1,412) (27) %
South Texas / Eagle Ford (5) 320 458 (138) (30) %
Central (5) 373 404 (31) (8) %
Gulf Coast 145 144 1 1 %
Rocky Mountain (5) 287 273 14 5 %
Western 237 203 34 17 %
Canada 315 327 (12) (4) %
Crude oil pipelines 5,430 6,974 (1,544) (22) %
NGL pipelines 183 187 (4) (2) %
Tariff activities total volumes 5,613 7,161 (1,548) (22) %
Trucking volumes 68 94 (26) (28) %
Transportation segment total volumes 5,681 7,255 (1,574) (22) %
** Indicates that variance as a percentage is not meaningful.
(1)Revenues and costs and expenses include intersegment amounts.
(2)Segment general and administrative expenses reflect direct costs attributable
to each segment and an allocation of other expenses to the segments. The
proportional allocations by segment require judgment by management and are based
on the business activities that exist during each period.
(3)Represents adjustments included in the performance measure utilized by our
CODM in the evaluation of segment results. See Note 11 to our Condensed
Consolidated Financial Statements for additional discussion of such adjustments.
(4)Average daily volumes are calculated as the total volumes (attributable to
our interest) for the period divided by the number of days in the period.
(5)Region includes volumes (attributable to our interest) from pipelines owned
by unconsolidated entities.
The following is a discussion of items impacting Transportation segment operating results for the periods indicated.
Revenues, Purchases and Related Costs, Equity Earnings in Unconsolidated Entities and Volumes. The following table presents variances in revenues, purchases and related costs and equity earnings in unconsolidated entities by region:
Favorable/(Unfavorable) Variance
Three Months Ended March 31,
2021-2020
Purchases and Equity
(in millions) Revenues Related Costs Earnings
Permian Basin region $ (53) $ 23 $ (6)
South Texas / Eagle Ford region (7) - (9)
Rocky Mountain region 4 - (6)
Other regions, NGL pipelines, trucking and
pipeline loss allowance revenue (36) 10 (1)
Total variance $ (92) $ 33 $ (22)
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•Permian Basin region. Revenues, net of purchases and related costs, ("net
revenues") and equity earnings decreased by $30 million and $6 million ,
respectively, for the three months ended March 31, 2021 compared to the same
period in 2020 primarily due to lower volumes of crude oil produced in the
Permian Basin , driven by the COVID-19 pandemic-related reset to production and
compounded by shut-ins from Winter Storm Uri. Such unfavorable impacts were
partially offset by the recognition of revenue associated with minimum volume
commitments and further for our pipelines reported as equity earnings, lower
power costs from Winter Storm Uri. The recognition of previously deferred
revenue associated with minimum volume commitments is reflected as an
"Adjustment" in the table above as discussed further below under "-Adjustments:
Deficiencies under minimum volume commitments, net."
•South Texas / Eagle Ford region. Revenues decreased for the three months ended
Equity earnings from our 50% interest inEagle Ford Pipeline LLC decreased for the three months endedMarch 31, 2021 compared to the three months endedMarch 31, 2020 due to a combination of lower joint tariff volumes from thePermian Basin via our Cactus I pipeline, and to a lesser extent, lower regional receipts, partially offset by the recognition of previously deferred revenue associated with minimum volume commitments. The recognition of such revenue is reflected as an "Adjustment" in the table above as discussed further below under "-Adjustments: Deficiencies under minimum volume commitments, net." •Rocky Mountain region. Equity earnings decreased for the three months endedMarch 31, 2021 compared to the same period in 2020 primarily due to the absence of higher-tariff volume commitments in the current period on the White Cliffs pipeline. •Other regions, NGL pipelines, trucking and pipeline loss allowance revenue. The decrease in other revenues, net of purchases and related costs, for the three months endedMarch 31, 2021 compared to the three months endedMarch 31, 2020 was primarily due to lower pipeline loss allowance revenue in 2021 primarily due to lower volumes. Additionally, certain of our Canadian crude oil pipelines and related system assets were unfavorably impacted by a decrease in intersegment fees to reflect lower utilization and market rates, which had an offsetting favorable impact on our Supply and Logistics segment. Adjustments: Deficiencies under minimum volume commitments, net. Many industry infrastructure projects developed and completed over the last several years were underpinned by long-term minimum volume commitment contracts whereby the shipper agreed to either: (i) ship and pay for certain stated volumes or (ii) pay the agreed upon price for a minimum contract quantity. Some of these agreements include make-up rights if the minimum volume is not met. If a counterparty has a make-up right associated with a deficiency, we bill the counterparty and defer the revenue attributable to the counterparty's make-up right but record an adjustment to reflect such amount associated with the current period activity in Segment Adjusted EBITDA. We subsequently recognize the revenue, and record a corresponding reversal of the adjustment, at the earlier of when the deficiency volume is delivered or shipped, when the make-up right expires or when it is determined that the counterparty's ability to utilize the make-up right is remote.
For the three months ended
Field Operating Costs. The decrease in field operating costs for the three months endedMarch 31, 2021 compared to the same period in 2020 was primarily due to (i) lower power costs, including the impact of gains related to hedged power costs resulting from Winter Storm Uri and (ii) streamlining efforts which have resulted in decreases in variable costs and maintenance and integrity management costs.Maintenance Capital . Maintenance capital consists of capital expenditures for the replacement and/or refurbishment of partially or fully depreciated assets in order to maintain the operating and/or earnings capacity of our existing assets. The decrease in maintenance capital spending for the three months endedMarch 31, 2021 compared to the same period in 2020 was primarily due to timing changes, the completion of multi-year reliability improvement programs and application of updated regulatory guidance, among other factors. 40 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents Facilities Segment Our Facilities segment operations generally consist of fee-based activities associated with providing storage, terminalling and throughput services primarily for crude oil, NGL and natural gas, as well as NGL fractionation and isomerization services and natural gas and condensate processing services. The Facilities segment generates revenue through a combination of month-to-month and multi-year agreements.
The following tables set forth our operating results from our Facilities segment:
Three Months Ended
Operating Results (1) March 31, Variance
(in millions, except per barrel data) 2021 2020 $ %
Revenues $ 271 $ 313 $ (42) (13) %
Purchases and related costs (4) (2) (2) (100) %
Field operating costs (77) (88) 11 13 %
Segment general and administrative expenses (2) (20) (19) (1) (5) %
Equity earnings in unconsolidated entities 2 2 - - %
Adjustments: (3)
Depreciation and amortization of unconsolidated entities 1 - 1 **
(Gains)/losses from derivative activities (1) 1 (2) **
Deficiencies under minimum volume commitments, net (2) 2 (4) **
Equity-indexed compensation expense 1 1 - **
Segment Adjusted EBITDA $ 171 $ 210 $ (39) (19) %
Maintenance capital $ 6 $ 14 $ (8) (57) %
Segment Adjusted EBITDA per barrel $ 0.49 $ 0.55 $ (0.06) (11) %
Three Months Ended
March 31, Variance
Volumes (4) 2021 2020 Volumes %
Liquids storage (average monthly capacity in
millions of barrels) (5) 100 111 (11) (10) %
Natural gas storage (average monthly working
capacity in billions of cubic feet) 68 63 5 8 %
NGL fractionation (average volumes in thousands of barrels per day)
144 154 (10) (6) %
Facilities segment total volumes (average monthly
volumes in millions of barrels) (6) 115 127 (12) (9) %
** Indicates that variance as a percentage is not meaningful.
(1)Revenues and costs and expenses include intersegment amounts.
(2)Segment general and administrative expenses reflect direct costs attributable
to each segment and an allocation of other expenses to the segments. The
proportional allocations by segment require judgment by management and are based
on the business activities that exist during each period.
(3)Represents adjustments included in the performance measure utilized by our
CODM in the evaluation of segment results. See Note 11 to our Condensed
Consolidated Financial Statements for additional discussion of such adjustments.
(4)Average monthly volumes are calculated as total volumes for the period
divided by the number of months in the period.
(5)Includes volumes (attributable to our interest) from facilities owned by
unconsolidated entities.
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(6)Facilities segment total volumes are calculated as the sum of: (i) liquids
storage capacity; (ii) natural gas storage working capacity divided by 6 to
account for the 6:1 mcf of natural gas to crude Btu equivalent ratio and further
divided by 1,000 to convert to monthly volumes in millions; and (iii) NGL
fractionation volumes multiplied by the number of days in the period and divided
by the number of months in the period.
The following is a discussion of items impacting Facilities segment operating results.
Revenues, Purchases and Related Costs and Volumes. Variances in revenues and average monthly volumes were primarily driven by the following:
•NGL Operations. Revenues from our NGL operations decreased by$41 million for the three months endedMarch 31, 2021 compared to the same period in 2020 primarily due to (i) lower intersegment facility fee revenues due to rate decreases at certain of our storage, fractionation and processing facilities to reflect lower utilization and market rates, which had an offsetting favorable impact on our Supply and Logistics segment, (ii) a benefit in the 2020 comparative period from the receipt of a deficiency payment of approximately$20 million upon the expiration of a multi-year contract and (iii) the sale of certain NGL terminals in the second quarter of 2020. Such unfavorable impacts were partially offset by gains at certain of our fractionation facilities and favorable foreign exchange impacts of approximately$6 million . •Crude Oil Storage. Revenues from our crude oil storage operations decreased by$15 million for the three months endedMarch 31, 2021 compared to three months endedMarch 31, 2020 primarily due to the sale of ourLos Angeles Basin terminals in October of 2020. •Natural Gas Storage. Revenues, net of purchases and related costs, from our natural gas storage operations increased by$17 million for the three months endedMarch 31, 2021 compared to the same period in 2020 primarily due to increased margins from hub activities related to Winter Storm Uri. Field Operating Costs. The decrease in field operating costs for the three months endedMarch 31, 2021 compared to the same period in 2020 was primarily due to (i) the sale of ourLos Angeles Basin terminals and certain NGL terminals, (ii) streamlining efforts which have resulted in decreases in variable costs and maintenance and integrity management costs and (iii) reduced activity at our rail terminals.Maintenance Capital . The decrease in maintenance capital spending for the three months endedMarch 31, 2021 compared to the same period in 2020 was primarily due to timing changes, the impact of asset sales, the completion of multi-year reliability improvement programs and application of updated regulatory guidance, among other factors. Supply and Logistics Segment Revenues from our Supply and Logistics segment activities reflect the sale of gathered and bulk-purchased crude oil, as well as sales of NGL volumes. Generally, our segment results are impacted by (i) increases or decreases in our Supply and Logistics segment volumes (which consist of lease gathering crude oil purchases volumes and NGL sales volumes), (ii) the overall strength, weakness and volatility of market conditions, including regional differentials, and (iii) the effects of competition on our lease gathering and NGL margins. In addition, the execution of our risk management strategies in conjunction with our assets can provide upside in certain markets. 42
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Table of Contents The following tables set forth our operating results from our Supply and Logistics segment:
Three Months Ended
Operating Results (1) March 31, Variance
(in millions, except per barrel data) 2021 2020 $ %
Revenues $ 8,083 $ 7,908 $ 175 2 %
Purchases and related costs (7,796) (7,813) 17 - %
Field operating costs (41) (58) 17 29 %
Segment general and administrative expenses (2) (21) (22) 1 5 %
Adjustments: (3) (Gains)/losses from derivative activities and inventory valuation adjustments
(197) 23 (220) **
Long-term inventory costing adjustments (41) 115 (156) **
Equity-indexed compensation expense 1 1 - **
Net gain on foreign currency revaluation (1) (13) 12 **
Segment Adjusted EBITDA $ (13) $ 141 $ (154) (109) %
Maintenance capital $ 3 $ 3 $ - - %
Segment Adjusted EBITDA per barrel $ (0.11) $ 1.00 $ (1.11) (111) %
Three Months Ended
Average Daily Volumes (4) March 31, Variance
(in thousands of barrels per day) 2021 2020 Volumes %
Crude oil lease gathering purchases 1,174 1,318 (144) (11) %
NGL sales 220 220 - - %
Supply and Logistics segment total volumes 1,394 1,538 (144) (9) %
** Indicates that variance as a percentage is not meaningful.
(1)Revenues and costs include intersegment amounts.
(2)Segment general and administrative expenses reflect direct costs attributable
to each segment and an allocation of other expenses to the segments. The
proportional allocations by segment require judgment by management and are based
on the business activities that exist during each period.
(3)Represents adjustments included in the performance measure utilized by our
CODM in the evaluation of segment results. See Note 11 to our Condensed
Consolidated Financial Statements for additional discussion of such adjustments.
(4)Average daily volumes are calculated as the total volumes for the period
divided by the number of days in the period.
The following table presents the range of the NYMEX WTI benchmark price of crude
oil (in dollars per barrel):
NYMEX WTI
Crude Oil Price
Low High
Three Months Ended March 31, 2021 $ 48 $ 66
Three Months Ended March 31, 2020 $ 14 $ 63
Our crude oil and NGL supply, logistics and distribution operations are not
directly affected by the absolute level of prices. Because the commodities that
we buy and sell are generally indexed to the same pricing indices for both sales
and purchases, revenues and costs related to purchases will fluctuate with
market prices. However, the margins related to those sales and purchases will
not necessarily have a corresponding increase or decrease. Additionally, net
revenues are impacted by net gains and losses from certain derivative activities
and inventory valuation and costing adjustments.
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Our NGL operations are sensitive to weather-related demand, particularly during the approximate five-month peak heating season of November through March, and temperature differences from period-to-period may have a significant effect on NGL demand and thus our financial performance.
Segment Adjusted EBITDA and Volumes. The following summarizes the significant items impacting our Supply and Logistics Segment Adjusted EBITDA:
•Crude Oil Operations. Net revenues from our crude oil operations decreased for the three months endedMarch 31, 2021 compared to the three months endedMarch 31, 2020 , primarily due to less favorable market conditions and lower volumes as a result of decreased production related to the COVID-19 pandemic. •NGL Operations. Net revenues from our NGL operations decreased for the three months endedMarch 31, 2021 compared to the three months endedMarch 31, 2020 , primarily due to lower realized margins on our NGL sales activities, partially offset by a decrease in intersegment fees to reflect lower utilization and market rates, which had an offsetting unfavorable impact on our Facilities and Transportation segments. •Impact from Certain Derivative Activities and Inventory Valuation Adjustments. The impact from certain derivative activities on our net revenues includes mark-to-market and other gains and losses resulting from certain derivative instruments that are related to underlying activities in another period (or the reversal of mark-to-market gains and losses from a prior period), losses on derivatives that are related to investing activities (such as the purchase of linefill) and inventory valuation adjustments, as applicable. See Note 8 to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for a comprehensive discussion regarding our derivatives and risk management activities. These gains and losses impact our net revenues but are excluded from Segment Adjusted EBITDA and thus are reflected as an "Adjustment" in the table above. •Long-Term Inventory Costing Adjustments. Our net revenues are impacted by changes in the weighted average cost of our crude oil and NGL inventory pools that result from price movements during the periods. These costing adjustments related to long-term inventory necessary to meet our minimum inventory requirements in third-party assets and other working inventory that was needed for our commercial operations. We consider this inventory necessary to conduct our operations and we intend to carry this inventory for the foreseeable future. These costing adjustments impact our net revenues but are excluded from Segment Adjusted EBITDA and thus are reflected as an "Adjustment" in the table above. •Foreign Exchange Impacts. Our net revenues are impacted by fluctuations in the value of CAD to USD, resulting in the realization of foreign exchange gains and losses on the settlement of foreign currency transactions as well as the revaluation of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in a foreign currency within our Canadian operations. These gains and losses impact our net revenues but are excluded from Segment Adjusted EBITDA and thus are reflected as an "Adjustment" in the table above. •Field Operating Costs. The decrease in field operating costs for the three months endedMarch 31, 2021 compared to the same period in 2020 was primarily due to lower trucking costs from a combination of decreased production related to the COVID-19 pandemic and more supply connected to pipelines resulting in lower trucking activity in the 2021 period.
Other Income and Expenses
Depreciation and Amortization
Depreciation and amortization expense increased for the three months ended
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Gains/(Losses) on Asset Sales and Asset Impairments, Net
The net loss on asset sales and asset impairments for the three months ended
March 31, 2020 was largely driven by (i) non-cash impairment losses of
approximately $446 million related to the write-down of certain pipeline and
other long-lived assets due to macroeconomic and geopolitical conditions
including the collapse of oil prices driven by both the decrease in demand
caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and excess supply, as well as changing market
conditions and expected lower crude oil production in certain regions, and (ii)
approximately $167 million of impairment losses recognized on assets upon
classification as held for sale during the quarter, which were subsequently
sold.
Goodwill Impairment Losses
During the first quarter of 2020, we recognized a goodwill impairment charge of
Gain on/(Impairment of) Investments in Unconsolidated Entities, Net
During the three months endedMarch 31, 2020 , we recognized losses of$43 million related to the write-down of certain of our investments in unconsolidated entities. Additionally, during the three months endedMarch 31, 2020 , we recognized a gain of$21 million related to our sale of a 10% interest inSaddlehorn Pipeline Company, LLC .
Other Expense, Net
The following table summarizes the components impacting Other expense, net (in
millions):
Three Months Ended
March 31,
2021 2020Gain/(loss) related to mark-to-market adjustment of the Preferred Distribution Rate Reset Option (1)
$ (67) $ 26 Net gain/(loss) on foreign currency revaluation (2) 7 (59) Other - 2$ (60) $ (31) (1)See Note 8 to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information. (2)The activity during the periods presented was primarily related to the impact from the change inthe United States dollar to Canadian dollar exchange rate on the portion of our intercompany net investment that is not long-term in nature.
Income Tax (Expense)/Benefit
The income tax expense for the three months endedMarch 31, 2021 compared to the income tax benefit for the three months endedMarch 31, 2020 was primarily due to the impact of higher earnings at PAA on income attributable to PAGP. 45 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents Liquidity and Capital Resources
General
On a consolidated basis, our primary sources of liquidity are (i) cash flow from operating activities and (ii) borrowings under PAA's credit facilities or the PAA commercial paper program. In addition, we may supplement these primary sources of liquidity with proceeds from our divestiture program and in the past we have utilized funds received from sales of equity and debt securities. Our primary cash requirements include, but are not limited to, (i) ordinary course of business uses, such as the payment of amounts related to the purchase of crude oil, NGL and other products, other expenses and interest payments on outstanding debt, (ii) investment and maintenance capital activities, (iii) acquisitions of assets or businesses, (iv) repayment of principal on long-term debt and (v) distributions to our Class A shareholders and noncontrolling interests. In addition, we may use cash for repurchases of common equity. We generally expect to fund our short-term cash requirements through cash flow generated from operating activities and/or borrowings under the PAA commercial paper program or PAA's credit facilities. In addition, we generally expect to fund our long-term needs, such as those resulting from investment capital activities or acquisitions and refinancing long-term debt, through a variety of sources (either separately or in combination), which may include the sources mentioned above as funding for short-term needs and/or the issuance of additional equity or debt securities and the sale of assets. As ofMarch 31, 2021 , although we had a working capital deficit of$253 million , we had approximately$2.8 billion of liquidity available to meet our ongoing operating, investing and financing needs, subject to continued covenant compliance, as noted below (in millions): As of March 31, 2021 Availability under PAA senior unsecured revolving credit facility (1) (2)$ 1,507 Availability under PAA senior secured hedged inventory facility (1) (2) 1,363 Amounts outstanding under PAA commercial paper program (137) Subtotal 2,733 Cash and cash equivalents 32 Total$ 2,765 (1)Represents availability prior to giving effect to borrowings outstanding under the PAA commercial paper program, which reduce available capacity under the facilities. (2)Available capacity under the PAA senior unsecured revolving credit facility and the PAA senior secured hedged inventory facility was reduced by outstanding letters of credit of$93 million and$37 million , respectively. Usage of PAA's credit facilities, and, in turn, its commercial paper program, is subject to ongoing compliance with covenants. The credit agreements for PAA's revolving credit facilities (which impact PAA's ability to access its commercial paper program because they provide the financial backstop that supports its short-term credit ratings) and its term loans and the indentures governing its senior notes contain cross-default provisions. A default under PAA's credit agreements or indentures would permit the lenders to accelerate the maturity of the outstanding debt. Additionally, lack of compliance with the provisions in PAA's credit agreements may restrict its ability to make distributions of available cash. PAA was in compliance with the covenants contained in its credit agreements and indentures as ofMarch 31, 2021 . We believe that we have, and will continue to have, the ability to access the PAA commercial paper program and credit facilities, which we use to meet our short-term cash needs. We believe that our financial position remains strong and we have sufficient liquid assets, cash flow from operating activities and borrowing capacity under the credit agreements to meet our financial commitments, debt service obligations, contingencies and anticipated capital expenditures. We are, however, subject to business and operational risks that could adversely affect our cash flow, including extended disruptions in the financial markets and/or energy price volatility resulting from current macroeconomic and geopolitical conditions associated with the COVID-19 pandemic and/or actions byOrganization of Petroleum Exporting Countries ("OPEC"). A prolonged material decrease in our cash flows would likely produce an adverse effect on our borrowing capacity and cost of borrowing. Our borrowing capacity and borrowing costs are also impacted by PAA's credit rating. See Item 1A. "Risk Factors" included in our 2020 Annual Report on Form 10-K for further discussion regarding risks that may impact our liquidity and capital resources. 46 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents Cash Flow from Operating Activities
For a comprehensive discussion of the primary drivers of cash flow from operating activities, including the impact of varying market conditions and the timing of settlement of our derivatives, see Item 7. "Liquidity and Capital Resources-Cash Flow from Operating Activities" included in our 2020 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Net cash provided by operating activities for the first three months of 2021 and 2020 was$789 million and$889 million , respectively, and primarily resulted from earnings from our operations. Additionally, as discussed further below, changes during these periods in our inventory levels and associated margin balances required as part of our hedging activities impacted our cash flow from operating activities. During the three months endedMarch 31, 2021 , our cash provided by operating activities was positively impacted by working capital changes, including decreases in the volume of inventory that we held, primarily due to the sale of crude oil inventory that had been stored during the contango market and the sale of NGL inventory related to demand for heating during the winter season. The net proceeds from the liquidation of such inventory were used to repay borrowings under PAA's commercial paper program and credit facilities. During the three months endedMarch 31, 2020 , our cash provided by operating activities was positively impacted by decreases in the volume of inventory that we held, primarily due to the sale of NGL and crude oil inventory. The favorable effects from the liquidation of such inventory were partially offset by the timing of revenue recognized during the period for which cash was received in prior periods. Investing Activities Capital Expenditures In addition to our operating needs, we also use cash for our investment capital projects, maintenance capital activities and acquisition activities. We fund these expenditures with cash generated by operating activities, financing activities and/or proceeds from our divestiture program. In the near term, we do not plan to issue common equity to fund such expenditures. The following table summarizes our investment, maintenance and acquisition capital expenditures (in millions): Three Months Ended March 31, 2021 2020 Investment capital (1) (2)$ 85 $ 352 Maintenance capital (1) 35 51 Acquisition capital (3) - 308$ 120 $ 711 (1)Capital expenditures made to expand the existing operating and/or earnings capacity of our assets are classified as "Investment capital." Capital expenditures for the replacement and/or refurbishment of partially or fully depreciated assets in order to maintain the operating and/or earnings capacity of our existing assets are classified as "Maintenance capital." (2)Includes contributions to unconsolidated entities, accounted for under the equity method of accounting, related to investment capital projects by such entities. (3)Acquisition capital for 2020 primarily includes a crude oil gathering system located in theDelaware Basin . 47 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents 2021 Investment andMaintenance Capital . Total projected investment capital for the year endedDecember 31, 2021 is$375 million , a majority of which will be invested in our fee-based Transportation and Facilities segments. Additionally, maintenance capital for the full year of 2021 is projected to be$180 million . We expect to fund our 2021 investment and maintenance capital expenditures with retained cash flow and proceeds from assets sold as part of our divestiture program.
Divestitures
We continue to evaluate potential sales of non-core assets and/or sales of partial interests in assets to strategic joint venture partners. We are targeting to complete$750 million of asset sales for the full year of 2021. The following table summarizes the proceeds received during the first three months of 2021 and 2020 from sales of assets, which were previously reported in our Transportation and Facilities segments (in millions): Three Months Ended March 31, 2021 2020 Proceeds from divestitures$ 21 $ 104
Proceeds from divestitures were used to fund our investment capital projects and reduce debt levels.
Ongoing Activities Related to Strategic Transactions
We are continuously engaged in the evaluation of potential transactions that support our current business strategy. While in the past such transactions have included acquisitions and large capital projects, consistent with our current strategic focus on capital discipline, leverage reduction, portfolio optimization and free cash flow generation, we are currently primarily focused on evaluating whether we should (i) sell assets that we regard as non-core or that we believe might be a better fit with the business and/or assets of a third-party buyer or (ii) sell partial interests in assets to strategic joint venture partners, in each case to optimize our asset portfolio and strengthen our balance sheet and leverage metrics. With respect to a potential divestiture, we may also conduct an auction process or may negotiate a transaction with one or a limited number of potential buyers. Such transactions could involve assets that, if sold or put into a joint venture or joint ownership arrangement, could have a material effect on our financial condition and results of operations. We typically do not announce a transaction until after we have executed a definitive agreement. However, in certain cases in order to protect our business interests or for other reasons, we may defer public announcement of a transaction until closing or a later date. Past experience has demonstrated that discussions and negotiations regarding a potential transaction can advance or terminate in a short period of time. Moreover, the closing of any transaction for which we have entered into a definitive agreement may be subject to customary and other closing conditions, which may not ultimately be satisfied or waived. Accordingly, we can give no assurance that our current or future efforts with respect to any such transactions will be successful, and we can provide no assurance that our financial expectations with respect to such transactions will ultimately be realized. See Item 1A. "Risk Factors-Risks Related to PAA's Business-Divestitures, joint ventures, joint ownership arrangements and acquisitions involve risks that may adversely affect our business" included in our 2020 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Financing Activities
Our financing activities primarily relate to funding investment capital projects, acquisitions and refinancing of our debt maturities, as well as short-term working capital (including borrowings for NYMEX and ICE margin deposits) and hedged inventory borrowings related to our NGL business and contango market activities.
Borrowings and Repayments Under Credit Arrangements
During the three months endedMarch 31, 2021 , we had net repayments on the PAA credit facilities and commercial paper program of$576 million . The net repayments resulted primarily from cash flow from operating activities and proceeds from asset sales, which offset borrowings during the period related to funding needs for capital investments, inventory purchases and other general partnership purposes. During the three months endedMarch 31, 2020 , we had net repayments on the PAA credit facilities and commercial paper program of$4 million . The net repayments resulted primarily from cash flow from operating activities and proceeds from 48 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents asset sales, which offset borrowings during the period related to funding needs for capital investments, inventory purchases and other general partnership purposes.
Registration Statements
PAGP Registration Statements. We have filed with theSEC a shelf registration statement that, subject to effectiveness at the time of use, allows us to issue, in the aggregate, up to a specified amount of equity securities (the "PAGP Traditional Shelf"), under which we had approximately$939 million of unsold securities available atMarch 31, 2021 . We also have access to a shelf registration statement (the "PAGP WKSI Shelf"), which provides us with the ability to offer and sell an unlimited amount of equity securities, subject to market conditions and capital needs. We did not conduct any offerings under the PAGP Traditional Shelf or the PAGP WKSI Shelf during the three months endedMarch 31, 2021 . PAA Registration Statements. PAA periodically accesses the capital markets for both equity and debt financing. PAA has filed with theSEC a universal shelf registration statement that, subject to effectiveness at the time of use, allows PAA to issue, in the aggregate, up to a specified amount of debt or equity securities (the "PAA Traditional Shelf"), under which PAA had approximately$1.1 billion of unsold securities available atMarch 31, 2021 . PAA also has access to a universal shelf registration statement (the "PAA WKSI Shelf"), which provides it with the ability to offer and sell an unlimited amount of debt and equity securities, subject to market conditions and capital needs. PAA did not conduct any offerings under the PAA Traditional Shelf or the PAA WKSI Shelf during the three months endedMarch 31, 2021 .
Distributions to Our Class A Shareholders
Distributions to our Class A shareholders. We distribute all of our available cash within 55 days following the end of each quarter to Class A shareholders of record. Available cash is generally defined as all of our cash and cash equivalents on hand at the end of each quarter less reserves established in the discretion of our general partner for future requirements. Our levels of financial reserves are established by our general partner and include reserves for the proper conduct of our business (including future capital expenditures and anticipated credit needs), compliance with legal or contractual obligations and funding of future distributions to our shareholders. See Item 5. "Market for Registrant's Shares, Related Shareholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities-Cash Distribution Policy" included in our 2020 Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional discussion regarding distributions.
See Note 7 to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for details of distributions paid during or pertaining to the first three months of 2021.
Distributions to Noncontrolling Interests
Distributions to noncontrolling interests represent amounts paid on interests in consolidated entities that are not owned by us. As ofMarch 31, 2021 , noncontrolling interests in our subsidiaries consisted of (i) limited partner interests in PAA including a 69% interest in PAA's common units and PAA's Series A preferred units combined and 100% of PAA's Series B preferred units, (ii) an approximate 21% limited partner interest in AAP and (iii) a 33% interest inRed River LLC . See Note 7 to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for details of distributions to noncontrolling interests paid during or pertaining to the first three months of 2021.
Contingencies
For a discussion of contingencies that may impact us, see Note 10 to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
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Commitments
Contractual Obligations. In the ordinary course of doing business, we purchase
crude oil and NGL from third parties under contracts, the majority of which
range in term from thirty-day evergreen to five years, with a limited number of
contracts with remaining terms extending up to 14 years. We establish a margin
for these purchases by entering into various types of physical and financial
sale and exchange transactions through which we seek to maintain a position that
is substantially balanced between purchases on the one hand and sales and future
delivery obligations on the other. The table below includes purchase obligations
related to these activities. Where applicable, the amounts presented represent
the net obligations associated with our counterparties (including giving effect
to netting buy/sell contracts and those subject to a net settlement
arrangement). We do not expect to use a significant amount of internal capital
to meet these obligations, as the obligations will be funded by corresponding
sales to entities that we deem creditworthy or who have provided credit support
we consider adequate.
The following table includes our best estimate of the amount and timing of these
payments as well as other amounts due under the specified contractual
obligations as of
Remainder of 2026 and
2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Thereafter Total
Long-term debt and related
interest payments (1) $ 305 $ 1,140 $ 1,662 $ 1,083 $ 1,300 $ 8,337 $ 13,827
Leases (2) 81 100 77 64 49 298 669
Other obligations (3) 365 517 331 285 272 950 2,720
Subtotal 751 1,757 2,070 1,432 1,621 9,585 17,216
Crude oil, NGL and other purchases
(4) 13,590 15,503 14,720 13,874 11,048 43,224 111,959
Total $ 14,341 $ 17,260 $ 16,790 $ 15,306 $ 12,669 $ 52,809 $ 129,175
(1)Includes debt service payments, interest payments due on PAA's senior notes
and the commitment fee on assumed available capacity under the PAA credit
facilities, as well as long-term borrowings under the PAA credit agreements and
the PAA commercial paper program, if any. Although there may be short-term
borrowings under the PAA credit agreements and the PAA commercial paper program,
we historically repay and borrow at varying amounts. As such, we have included
only the maximum commitment fee (as if no short-term borrowings were outstanding
on the PAA credit agreements or the PAA commercial paper program) in the amounts
above. For additional information regarding PAA's debt obligations, see Note 6
to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
(2)Includes both operating and finance leases as defined by FASB guidance.
Leases are primarily for (i) railcars, (ii) land, (iii) office space, (iv)
storage tanks, (v) tractor trailers and (vi) vehicles. See Note 14 to our
Consolidated Financial Statements included in Part IV of our 2020 Annual Report
on Form 10-K for additional information.
(3)Includes (i) other long-term liabilities, (ii) storage, processing and
transportation agreements (including certain agreements for which the amount and
timing of expected payments is subject to the completion of underlying
construction projects), (iii) certain rights-of-way easements and
(iv) noncancelable commitments related to our investment capital projects,
including projected contributions for our share of the capital spending of our
equity method investments. The storage, processing and transportation agreements
include approximately $1.9 billion associated with agreements to store crude oil
at facilities and transport crude oil or utilize capacity on pipelines owned by
equity method investees at posted tariff rates or prices that we believe
approximate market. A portion of our commitment to transport is supported by
crude oil buy/sell or other agreements with third parties with commensurate
quantities.
(4)Amounts are primarily based on estimated volumes and market prices based on
average activity during March 2021 . The actual physical volume purchased and
actual settlement prices will vary from the assumptions used in the table.
Uncertainties involved in these estimates include levels of production at the
wellhead, weather conditions, changes in market prices and other conditions
beyond our control.
Letters of Credit. In connection with supply and logistics activities, we
provide certain suppliers with irrevocable standby letters of credit to secure
our obligation for the purchase and transportation of crude oil, NGL and natural
gas. Additionally, we issue letters of credit to support insurance programs,
derivative transactions, including hedging-related margin obligations, and
construction activities. At March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 , we had
outstanding letters of credit of approximately $130 million and $129 million ,
respectively.
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Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
We have no off-balance sheet arrangements as defined by Item 303 of Regulation S-K.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
See Note 2 to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
For a discussion regarding our critical accounting policies and estimates, see "Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates" under Item 7 of our 2020 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Change in Accounting Estimate
In early 2021, we conducted a review to assess the useful lives of our property and equipment. Based on this review, we modified the useful lives of certain of our Pipeline and related facilities and Storage, terminal and rail facilities to useful lives of 10 to 50 years from useful lives of 10 to 70 years to reflect current expectations given our future operating and commercial outlook. This change in accounting estimate was effectiveJanuary 1, 2021 . Based on the net carrying amount of this property and equipment as ofJanuary 1, 2021 , we currently estimate that these useful life reductions will prospectively increase annual depreciation expense by approximately$72 million . FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS All statements included in this report, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements, including but not limited to statements incorporating the words "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "expect," "plan," "intend" and "forecast," as well as similar expressions and statements regarding our business strategy, plans and objectives for future operations. The absence of such words, expressions or statements, however, does not mean that the statements are not forward-looking. Any such forward-looking statements reflect our current views with respect to future events, based on what we believe to be reasonable assumptions. Certain factors could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from the results or outcomes anticipated in the forward-looking statements. The most important of these factors include, but are not limited to: •our ability to pay distributions to our Class A shareholders; •our expected receipt of, and amounts of, distributions fromPlains AAP, L.P. ; •declines in global crude oil demand and crude oil prices (whether due to the COVID-19 pandemic, future pandemics or other factors) that correspondingly lead to a significant reduction of North American crude oil, natural gas liquids ("NGL") and natural gas production (whether due to reduced producer cash flow to fund drilling activities or the inability of producers to access capital, or both, the unavailability of pipeline and/or storage capacity, the shutting-in of production by producers, government-mandated pro-ration orders, or other factors), which in turn could result in significant declines in the actual or expected volume of crude oil and NGL shipped, processed, purchased, stored, fractionated and/or gathered at or through the use of our assets and/or the reduction of commercial opportunities that might otherwise be available to us; •the effects of competition and capacity overbuild in areas where we operate, including contract renewal risk and the risk of loss of business to other midstream operators who are willing or under pressure to aggressively reduce transportation rates in order to capture or preserve customers; •negative societal sentiment regarding the hydrocarbon energy industry and the continued development and consumption of hydrocarbons, which could influence consumer preferences and governmental or regulatory actions that adversely impact our business; •unanticipated changes in crude oil and NGL market structure, grade differentials and volatility (or lack thereof); •environmental liabilities or events that are not covered by an indemnity, insurance or existing reserves; •fluctuations in refinery capacity in areas supplied by our mainlines and other factors affecting demand for various grades of crude oil, NGL and natural gas and resulting changes in pricing conditions or transportation throughput requirements; 51 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents •maintenance of PAA's credit rating and ability to receive open credit from our suppliers and trade counterparties; •the occurrence of a natural disaster, catastrophe, terrorist attack (including eco-terrorist attacks) or other event that materially impacts our operations, including cyber or other attacks on our electronic and computer systems; •the availability of, and our ability to consummate, divestitures, joint ventures, acquisitions or other strategic opportunities; •weather interference with business operations or project construction, including the impact of extreme weather events or conditions; •the refusal or inability of our customers or counterparties to perform their obligations under their contracts with us (including commercial contracts, asset sale agreements and other agreements), whether justified or not and whether due to financial constraints (such as reduced creditworthiness, liquidity issues or insolvency), market constraints, legal constraints (including governmental orders or guidance), the exercise of contractual or common law rights that allegedly excuse their performance (such as force majeure or similar claims) or other factors; •our inability to perform our obligations under our contracts, whether due to non-performance by third parties, including our customers or counterparties, market constraints, third-party constraints, legal constraints (including governmental orders or guidance), or other factors; •the incurrence of costs and expenses related to unexpected or unplanned capital expenditures, third-party claims or other factors; •the successful operation of joint ventures and joint operating arrangements we enter into from time to time, whether relating to assets operated by us or by third parties, and the successful integration and future performance of acquired assets or businesses; •failure to implement or capitalize, or delays in implementing or capitalizing, on investment capital projects, whether due to permitting delays, permitting withdrawals or other factors; •disruptions to futures markets for crude oil, NGL and other petroleum products, which may impair our ability to execute our commercial or hedging strategies; •shortages or cost increases of supplies, materials or labor; •the impact of current and future laws, rulings, governmental regulations, trade policies, accounting standards and statements, and related interpretations, including legislation or regulatory initiatives that prohibit, restrict or regulate hydraulic fracturing or that prohibit the development of oil and gas resources and the related infrastructure on lands dedicated to or served by our pipelines; •tightened capital markets or other factors that increase our cost of capital or limit our ability to obtain debt or equity financing on satisfactory terms to fund additional acquisitions, investment capital projects, working capital requirements and the repayment or refinancing of indebtedness; •inability of producers, who have made commitments to our pipelines, to access capital to fund their drilling and completion activities; •general economic, market or business conditions inthe United States and elsewhere (including the potential for a recession or significant slowdown in economic activity levels and the timing, pace and extent of economic recovery) that impact demand for crude oil, drilling and production activities and therefore the demand for the midstream services we provide and commercial opportunities available to us; •the amplification of other risks caused by volatile financial markets, capital constraints, liquidity concerns and inflation; •the use or availability of third-party assets upon which our operations depend and over which we have little or no control; •the currency exchange rate of the Canadian dollar tothe United States dollar; •inability to recognize current revenue attributable to deficiency payments received from customers who fail to ship or move more than minimum contracted volumes until the related credits expire or are used; •significant under-utilization of our assets and facilities; •increased costs, or lack of availability, of insurance; 52
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Table of Contents •the effectiveness of our risk management activities; •fluctuations in the debt and equity markets, including the price of PAA's units at the time of vesting under its long-term incentive plans; •risks related to the development and operation of our assets; and •other factors and uncertainties inherent in the transportation, storage, terminalling and marketing of crude oil, as well as in the storage of natural gas and the processing, transportation, fractionation, storage and marketing of natural gas liquids. Other factors described herein, as well as factors that are unknown or unpredictable, could also have a material adverse effect on future results. Please read "Risk Factors" discussed in Item 1A of our 2020 Annual Report on Form 10-K. Except as required by applicable securities laws, we do not intend to update these forward-looking statements and information.
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