Source: https://investors.itron.com/node/6451/html
Timestamp: 2020-05-25 20:01:25
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Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended 12/31/02
Commission file number 0-22418
Spokane, Washington 99216-1897
As of June 28, 2002 (the last business day of the registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter), the aggregate market value of the shares of common stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant (based on the closing price for the common stock on the Nasdaq National Market on such date) was approximately $549,151,490.
As of February 28, 2003, there were outstanding 20,240,943 shares of the registrant’s common stock, no par value, which is the only class of common stock of the registrant.
The information called for by Part II and Part III is incorporated by reference to the definitive Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders of the Company to be held May 23, 2003.
Itron, Inc. is a leading technology provider and source of knowledge for collecting, analyzing, and applying critical data about electric, gas, and water usage to the global energy and water industries. Itron delivers value to its customers by providing industry-leading solutions for meter data collection, energy information management, demand side management and response, load forecasting and analysis consulting services and software, transmission and distribution system design and optimization, web-based workforce automation, commercial and industrial (C&I) customer care and residential energy management. Since our founding in 1977, we have brought advancements in hardware and software technology to our customers to enable a transition from manpower intensive activities, such as manual meter reading, to more automated and efficient systems that help optimize the delivery and use of energy and water.
Itron’s solutions are installed at over 2,800 utilities worldwide, many of which utilize multiple Itron products and systems. Most of those utilities utilize our meter data collection and management systems to collect and process data from over 270 million electric, gas, and water meters. Of those, over 1,100 utilities use our radio and telephone based technologies to automatically collect, analyze, and apply meter data from 24 million electric, gas and water meters. Our enterprise software solutions for managing complex commercial and industrial meter data are used by approximately 600 utilities worldwide, including over 90% of the largest electric and gas utilities in the United States (U.S.) and Canada. Our software systems are also in use at four wholesale energy markets in the U.S. and Canada to provide critical data management, billing, and settlement systems for the power flowing into and out of those deregulating markets. Over 150 utilities have utilized our transmission and distribution software design tools, and our joint pole use and engineering services. Approximately 100 utilities have utilized our forecasting software and consulting services. Approximately 35 end-users and 25 utilities use our enterprise energy data management software. All of the 300 largest utilities in the U.S. and Canada are Itron customers and use at least one of our solutions—a strong position from which to expand our growing portfolio of products and services.
During 2002 and 2003, we expanded our solutions portfolio for optimizing the delivery and use of energy and water beyond meter data collection hardware and software solutions with several strategic acquisitions. These acquisitions broadened our capabilities and solutions offerings to include software tools and services for more efficient design of transmission and distribution infrastructure, field workforce automation, enterprise-wide energy management and forecasting to help our customers predict and plan for future needs more effectively. We believe our technology, industry knowledge and relationships give us a strong foothold for extending our leadership into additional systems that give utilities and their customers the knowledge to distribute and use electricity, gas and water more efficiently.
With penetration for meter reading automation in the U.S. and Canada at approximately 17%, a growing international market for our products and new products to serve our customers changing needs, Itron is well positioned for its future.
Energy and Water Industries Overview
For a number of years, the energy markets have undergone fundamental changes as governments in the U.S. and Canada have modified the regulation and structure of the electricity and gas markets to stimulate competition, increase reliable delivery and standardize certain aspects of the market. Transactions previously controlled by a single vertically integrated provider may now be handled by a variety of unrelated market
participants. The move from regulated industries towards a deregulated or partially deregulated market model has resulted in numerous challenges for utilities to run their businesses and serve their customers.
During the 1990’s, electricity demand increased by 17% while supply infrastructure only increased by 2.3%. At the end of the decade, the Energy Information Association predicted that by 2020 electricity demand would increase by another 32%, requiring an estimated 1,310 new power plants to meet the demand. The Association also predicted that during the same period, demand for natural gas would increase by 50%, with a significant portion of that growth driven by new gas fueled electric generation facilities. Investments in electric and gas delivery infrastructure have been minimal over the past decade. New investments in transmission infrastructure decreased by $110 million per year over the past 20 years while transmission congestion increased by more than 200% from August of 1999 to 2000. It is estimated that transmission infrastructure additions must quadruple over the next decade just to maintain the current level of transmission adequacy.
Faced with these projections, over the past several years, new generation infrastructure was built to meet expected increases in demand. Due in large part to the economy and unusually mild weather, demand over the past few years did not rise as predicted and certain areas are now faced with generation supply that exceeds near term demand. As a result, a number of companies that built new generation infrastructure find themselves with under performing assets. As well, planned new generating facilities are being cancelled or delayed due to permitting, environmental issues, inability to raise capital and cost concerns.
In addition, natural gas prices rose substantially in the latter part of 2002, impacting natural gas distribution companies and the competitive position of new gas fired electric generation. Increased reliance on natural gas is subjecting the electricity market to volatility in both wholesale electricity and natural gas prices.
The uncertainty of supply and demand imbalances, credit and liquidity issues, aging and under performing infrastructure combined with increased rates and wholesale price volatility, have resulted in a renewed interest by utility commissions, political bodies and consumers in the management and conservation of energy and upgrading and adding of technology to the infrastructure.
As the need for more accurate energy usage data grows, organizations must reduce the amount of human intervention required to collect, validate, edit and manage that data. According to a META Group, Inc. research report, the energy market volatility experienced in the past several years has uncovered the lack of an integrated market structure, creating significant risk exposure for energy companies and requiring new systems and better processes for managing commodities along the energy value chain. Advanced systems for energy commodity management will need significantly extended functionality over traditional systems.
The water delivery infrastructure has undergone different but equally substantial changes with large water companies buying up or running small water companies and water shortages becoming critical around the world. Delivering adequate amounts of clean, drinkable water is a problem many cities are now addressing. Since 1970, the worldwide demand for water has tripled while the amount of potable water remains at 1% of the earth’s total supply. In 2002, the U.S. experienced severe drought conditions over 45% of the country, with 57 rivers reaching record low levels in March of 2002. Measurement and recording of actual usage is now mission critical for many water utilities.
Industry trends give energy and water utilities, and delivery and generation companies, powerful incentives to return to their core business and focus on ways to reduce costs, streamline operations, enhance system reliability, improve safety for meter readers and customers, and provide superior customer service.
Itron’s Vision and Strategy
Itron’s vision is to optimize the delivery and use of energy and water. We intend to leverage our core competencies of providing products and services for advanced meter data collection and management, and our
history of strong customer relationships with electric, gas and water utilities, to provide additional knowledge based systems about how and when energy and water are used, and how to better manage the distribution of both.
With this strategic growth path in mind, our next-generation product development has been and is focused on data collection, communications equipment and software applications—all of which will give utilities the knowledge to distribute and use their valuable resources more efficiently. In addition to internal development, we also look outside of Itron for potential licensing, partnering and acquisition opportunities that will enable us to expand our solutions portfolio.
In March 2002, we acquired LineSoft Corporation (LineSoft), which moved us into the optimization of delivery systems, with software tools and services that enable energy delivery providers to design more cost and operationally efficient transmission and distribution infrastructure, and as well, to rebuild existing transmission and distribution infrastructure.
In October 2002, we acquired Regional Economic Research, Inc. (RER), an energy forecasting, consulting and analysis company. With this acquisition, Itron moved into the world of helping utilities and other market participants forecast their future needs including load growth, new facilities requirements, customer reaction to proposed programs and rates, software for day ahead, and other predictive needs.
Also in October 2002, we acquired eMobile Data Corporation (eMobile), whose technology enables us to automate field workforce operations, providing cost savings and efficiency for utilities. A fully integrated field workforce management solution will enable workers to manage a variety of route-based work orders while in the field as well as receive dispatchable work orders that can be managed while in a particular geographic area.
In March 2003, we acquired Silicon Energy Corporation (Silicon Energy), a provider of enterprise energy software solutions (see discussion in the Subsequent Event section).
Our vision is to leverage the strengths of the acquisitions with our data collection technologies, and industry and customer relationships to continue to enhance our portfolio of technology solutions for optimizing the delivery and use of energy and water.
Meter Data Collection Systems and Services
We estimate there are approximately 130 million electric meters, 70 million gas meters, and 70 million water meters in the U.S. and Canada. Automated Meter Reading (AMR) technology is in use on approximately 46 million, or 17%, of these meters. We estimate that there are another 900 million to 1.2 billion meters outside of the U.S. and Canada with minimal AMR deployments. We have established ourselves as a leading supplier of AMR systems having shipped just over 23.6 million AMR meter modules to utilities in the U.S. and Canada, and approximately 600,000 to utilities elsewhere around the world as of December 31, 2002. In total, over 1,100 utilities have installed our AMR technology. With many utilities returning to a back to basics strategy, business fundamentals including cost reductions, improved reliability, enhanced workforce efficiency and enhanced customer connections are of increasing importance. Automation technology helps enable utilities to meet these goals.
Our MV-90 commercial and industrial (C&I) meter data collection and analysis software is used by approximately 600 utilities throughout the world including more than 90% of the major electric and gas utilities in the U.S. and Canada. At the end of 2002, Microsoft discontinued support of certain technology components that are used by some versions of MV-90. This could result in future upgrade requirements for our MV-90 customers. As the cost of energy increases and interest in energy management and control increases, we expect timely and open access to energy usage information collected by MV-90 to become increasingly important. This
will enable energy providers and their customers to have the information and knowledge they need to make decisions on how to most efficiently and cost effectively use energy.
Electric, gas and water utilities have a number of workforces that perform operations in the field. In 2002, we acquired eMobile, a provider of wireless, web-based mobile workforce automation and dispatch management software solutions. Many of the economic and other pressures that drive automation of meter reading also result in the requirement for more immediate access to information between the office and the field. eMobile software tools allow utility field workers to access via the web the information they need to make decisions, eliminate costly paperwork, and work more effectively on operations such as service turn-ons/turn-offs, gas leak detection, credit and collections, meter services and trouble calls. Additionally, solutions are planned for tools related to planning, constructing and maintaining other infrastructure assets. While a number of utilities have solutions in place for one or more of their workforce crews, we believe the need to increase operational efficiency will drive further consolidation and automation of these crews.
Transmission and Distribution Products and Services
Significant amounts are spent annually on building, maintaining and upgrading transmission and distribution (T&D) systems. Electrical Power Research Institute and Cambridge Energy Research Associates reports indicate that approximately $10 billion is spent each year on the construction and maintenance of T&D facilities. In March 2002, we acquired LineSoft, a provider of software solutions and engineering consulting services that enable energy delivery providers to design more cost and operationally efficient transmission and distribution infrastructure, and as well, to rebuild existing transmission and distribution infrastructure. These solutions are now referred to as Itron’s Transmission and Distribution Solutions (TDS) product group.
There are a number of geographic areas that lack adequate transmission system capacity to move electricity from the generation facilities to the distribution systems. This has been one of the causes of increased congestion and voltage reductions in the Northeast region of the U.S. To support the increase in energy demand, new transmission system infrastructure must be built and existing infrastructure needs to be upgraded. Efficiently designing, upgrading and optimizing the transmission and distribution system can improve reliability and safety, while at the same time minimizing capital investments. Given the current state of transmission systems, with supply and demand imbalances and transmission congestion in many parts of the country, we believe there are significant opportunities over the next five years for the TDS suite of products.
TDS also provides software and services to optimize the design, upgrade and maintenance of the distribution infrastructure. Third party attachment to existing distribution poles requires the utility to perform field and engineering analysis for their poles. We provide joint use services which help pole owners track third party attachments to their existing distribution poles, determine what can be added to them, whether or not the poles are in compliance with existing codes and safety regulations, and whether they are being used most effectively.
With capital resource and credit constraints in the marketplace, the extent to which transmission and distribution companies can better predict load requirements will enable them to more efficiently design and operate reliable systems at the least possible cost. In 2002, we also acquired RER, a leading provider of energy forecasting consulting and analysis. As volatility in wholesale energy prices continues and congestion and bottlenecks in transmission infrastructure increase, we believe there will be a growing desire for generation, transmission and distribution companies to increase the accuracy of their energy purchases and system operations. Forecasting tools and services enable these improvements. We believe our forecasting and analysis tools can be utilized by delivery companies to optimally design and operate their systems, increase system reliability and minimize risk.
While the 2001 energy crisis in California, and all of its impacts, have slowed decisions related to opening the wholesale markets in certain areas of the U.S., the Federal Energy Reliability Council (FERC) is proposing a Standard Market Design (SMD) that would provide a set of operating standards for market participants to follow. As this work continues, we believe there will be opportunities in this market as additional regional grids are established and new requirements for load data collection, management, forecasting, settlements and billing arise. As well, we believe new transmission construction and rebuild of existing facilities will grow as decisions in this area come to pass.
Itron Products and Solutions
Itron has a broad portfolio of solutions for collecting and communicating data from and throughout complex utility networks and creating information that has high value to suppliers, distributors and end-users of electricity, natural gas and water.
Our meter reading solutions integrate a broad array of meter modules, private and public radio and telephone-based communications systems, and data management storage and delivery applications. Our solutions support electric, gas and water service. Itron’s integrated approach provides our customers with the flexibility needed to apply a cost-effective solution to each of their situations—rural, suburban, urban, residential, commercial, and industrial.
Our meter reading automation technologies are designed to accommodate the inevitability of change so that our customers can select solutions that meet their needs today while also laying the foundation for more advanced solutions to meet their future goals and objectives. Our radio-based solutions encompass handheld, mobile and network reading technology options. Because the same radio-based meter modules can be used with any of these solutions, our technologies facilitate the migration from one level of systems automation to another by eliminating the need to replace the meter endpoint. Our telephone-based solutions offer an economically attractive alternative for low density or selective deployment situations.
We have developed software solutions that integrate, store, manage and apply information from diverse data collection systems and technologies. This allows for the deployment of various collection technologies within a service territory, tailored to the economic and functional considerations of different portions of the territory. Itron also provides software solutions that take collected load data and enable customized billing and settlement, internet-based presentment and information exchange. Itron software solutions are integrated with the widest array of utility billing systems in the industry, with our communication protocols, in many respects, representing the de facto industry standard. In addition, Itron has one of the largest project management organizations in the industry.
Traditionally, many of our customers have deployed our technology primarily on the basis of reducing costs and improving the efficiency of their meter reading applications. While this remains a critical component of Itron’s value proposition, our products, systems and solutions can provide a wide range of benefits to our customers that go far beyond meter reading and billing. Our customers are finding that Itron’s technology and services can be an integral component of their operational and strategic objectives of reducing costs, improving customer service, delivering real process improvement, and successfully evolving their businesses.
Automatic Meter Reading (AMR) Systems and Products
Our AMR product line primarily involves the use of radio and telephone communications technology to collect and transmit meter data along with a host of software solutions for billing and settlement, data storage and retrieval, internet data presentment, load profiling and forecasting, and numerous other applications for meter data. The Company’s radio-based AMR solutions encompass Handheld AMR, Mobile AMR and Network AMR.
Due to the geographic features and varying population density of a utility’s service territory, generally no single meter reading solution is technologically or economically suited to all parts of the utility’s service territory. Our AMR applications are intended to provide flexibility ranging from selective installation for high cost-to-read meters or geographically dispersed meters requiring advanced metering functionality, to full implementation of an AMR system covering a large portion of a utility’s service area. In a deregulated marketplace, target marketing of specific features are desirable. We provide technology that can be selectively deployed to targeted end-use consumers. This flexibility helps our customers achieve economic and operational benefits from their initial investments in our AMR systems, while enabling migration to more comprehensive AMR solutions in the future as the marketplace requires.
Meter Modules: Our encoder, receiver, transmitter (ERT) meter modules serve as the data collection endpoint for Itron’s fully integrated portfolio of radio-based data collection solutions. ERTs are radio-based modules that fit in or on electric, gas or water meters. The ERTs encode consumption and tamper information from the meters and communicate the data via radio to Itron’s handheld, mobile and network radio-based data collection systems. ERTs can be retrofitted to existing meters or installed on new meters. Electric ERTs are typically installed under the glass of electric meters and are powered by the electricity running through the meter. Gas and water ERTs are usually attached to the meters and are powered by long-life batteries. During 2002, Itron partnered with two companies to develop meter module solutions for the solid-state meter market. In these situations our AMR technology is integrated into solid-state meters.
We also offer a separate line of meter modules for use outside of the U.S. and Canada. The primary differences between the meter modules used in the U.S. and Canada and in international markets are the radio frequency band in which they operate and the physical configuration of the module.
Handheld AMR: Handheld AMR uses radio-equipped handheld computers to read module-equipped electric, gas or water meters via radio without the need to access the meter or customer premises. A radio is integrated into a handheld computer. A software module in the meter reading system allows the handheld computer to determine which meters are read by manual efforts, by radio, or by an optical probe. As a meter reader walks a route, the radio-equipped handheld computer sends a radio wake-up signal to nearby radio-based meter modules that have been attached to electric, gas or water meters. The unit then receives meter reading and tamper data back from the meter modules. The same handheld computer can read any combination of properly equipped electric, gas and water meter modules.
Handheld AMR is normally used to read the 5-10 percent of accounts within the utility service territory that have high-cost or hazardous-to-read meters. The meters are typically located in a geographically dispersed environment, scattered throughout the service territory. These meters may be situated in a basement, in a back yard with a dangerous dog or locked gate, or with a customer who doesn’t want the meter reader on the property.
Mobile AMR: Mobile AMR uses vehicles equipped with radio units to read ERT module-equipped electric, gas or water meters via radio without the need to access the meter. A radio transceiver in Itron’s Mobile Collection System is installed in a utility vehicle. Route information is downloaded from the utility billing system and loaded into the radio transceiver. While driving along a meter reading route, the transceiver broadcasts a radio wake-up signal to all ERT meter modules within range and receives the ERT messages when they respond. As a result of this level of saturation, meter reading efficiency is dramatically improved.
Fixed Network 2.0: Launched in the fall of 2001, Itron’s Fixed Network 2.0 is designed for a utility of any size or service environment to meet its advanced meter data collection objectives. Fixed Network 2.0 combines Itron’s wireless RF technology for “last mile” communications between locally installed concentrator devices and meter endpoint devices with flexible public network communications capabilities for communication and data transfer between the concentrators and the host processor. Fixed Network 2.0 also features significantly improved data processing speeds and data management capability, as well as an open architecture design that allows for the interface and sharing of data with other utility applications such as outage management, distribution operations, and load research.
Commercial and Industrial (C&I) Network: Our C&I Network uses advanced, peer-to-peer radio communications to transport metering data from solid-state electric meters equipped with Itron External Meter Modems (EMMs). The data travels from the EMMs, through a system of radio relays, to a hub, which then routes the data using a single dedicated phone line to an Itron MV-90 host processor. There the data can be integrated with a variety of Itron and other software applications to provide a variety of billing, internet-based data presentment, load forecasting, settlements, marketing, load curtailment, energy management, load research and system engineering applications.
By using a system of radio frequency relays to communicate with these meters, the C&I Network eliminates the need for dedicated phone lines and the associated on-going phone charges to each meter. This makes the C&I Network a very economical network communication solution and enables energy providers to meet advanced data collection needs for a significantly broader segment of commercial and industrial energy customers.
In addition to our own C&I network, during 2002 Itron agreed to be the exclusive distributor of SmartSynch’s SmartMeter SystemSM, a wireless communications system that uses public networks and the internet for communicating with and collecting data from solid-state commercial and industrial electric meters.
The SmartMeter system is installed within a regular electric meter, resulting in efficient, low-cost installations and operations. The SmartMeter collects power quality and usage data, then compresses and encrypts the data for superior transmission economics and data/device security. As data is collected, it travels through wireless public communication networks to the company’s TMS software, a unique application that seamlessly interfaces SmartMeters over advanced communication networks and the internet.
The SmartMeter System and the Itron C&I Network are complementary products—each has their own strengths and value depending on a utility’s needs and objectives. With its drop-in capability and use of public wireless communications networks, the SmartMeter System is ideally suited and cost effective for selective deployments in areas with public wireless network coverage. Conversely, the system architecture and communications capabilities of the Itron C&I Network make it a cost effective solution for areas with groups of C&I meters, such as commercial and industrial parks, strip malls, downtown areas, or large commercial and industrial facilities with multiple metering points.
Commercial and Industrial Data Collection and Management Software
Commercial and industrial (C&I) meters have more sophisticated measurement capabilities than residential meters and collect much more data from the meter that must be conveyed back to energy providers and others. There are a wide variety of these meters by multiple meter vendors with no uniform communications standards.
Itron is a leading provider of software systems for collection, validation and editing of interval, register and event data from C&I meters. Our C&I software systems have extensive functionality to support data validation and data editing, data totalization, time-of-use pricing, load research, interactive graphics, billing and financial settlement, load forecasting and demand management, distribution operations and planning, marketing and customer care, and deregulated marketplace transactions. Our C&I software is very scalable and can be operated on a single PC as well as in wide-area network operating environments and distributed systems.
Handheld Systems and Products
We provide several models of handheld computers to meet the varying requirements of our customers. Each model is designed for use in harsh environments with standard text and graphics, back-lit displays, several memory sizes, multiple communications options, interface devices for electronic meters and easy to use keyboards that can be customized to the needs of our customers.
Field service operations represent an opportunity in which technologies such as wireless communications, the internet, and real-time data exchange can be applied to achieve operational efficiency, productivity and customer service. In 2002, we acquired eMobile. eMobile’s flagship product is Service-Link, a web-based application for utility field service dispatching and mobile workforce management. By combining wireless communications with the internet and real-time information exchange, Service-Link enables utilities to streamline and automate many of the processes associated with field service, including turn-ons/turn-offs, gas leak detection, credit and collections, meter services and trouble calls. An important feature of Service-Link is its ability to be configured to meet many of the dispatch and data collection needs of utilities.
Service-Link enables information to be downloaded to mobile computers via regular dial-up docking station connections or via wireless communications. Service-Link supports numerous handheld devices ranging from a pocket PC/PDA to a full laptop computer. Service-Link uses the internet and a utility’s local-area network or wide-area network to provide connections between a server, dispatcher workstations, customer service representatives, and the wireless network.
In 2002, Itron introduced new products and conducted two market development trials for residential energy management solutions. Itron partnered with Lanthorn Technologies to facilitate the trials. The trials utilized an internet connection within the home to control a thermostat and monitor energy consumption. Lanthorn Technologies provided the utility and consumer interfaces and messaging application for monitoring consumption from Itron ERTs, and delivered thermostat control in near real-time. This technology may allow utilities to more accurately predict when to shift or reduce peak load while providing flexible tools to execute the load reduction event. The trial results also demonstrated that these tools could improve customer service and provide utilities with value added services they can offer to their customers.
Transmission and Distribution Software and Engineering Services
TDS provides software solutions and engineering consulting services for optimizing utility transmission and distribution systems. Specific TDS products include: (1) licensed software tools, typically sold on a seat license basis with follow-on software maintenance contracts for transmission line design, distribution line design and substation design, (2) software services that help utilities apply TDS tools, including data entry of utility codes and standards, and electrical and mechanical design standards, (3) engineering consulting services for transmission and distribution line design, and (4) joint use services, which include services and software tools, for surveying utility poles in preparation for attachment of cables and equipment of other carriers (cable companies, competitive local exchange carriers, etc.) and software tools for calculating a utility pole’s capability for carrying wires and other devices, creating work orders to repair or make poles ready for additional attachments, and determining compliance with local codes and safety rules.
Consulting, Analysis and Forecasting Services and Software
Itron’s software and consulting services are used by energy utilities, energy marketers, research organizations, industrial and corporate customers, and government agencies for load and price forecasting, analysis and planning, energy and resource economics assessment, utility program analysis, and market share research. Additionally, Itron’s customers use our consulting services to evaluate and develop energy efficiency programs and assess renewable energy technology.
RER’s solutions offer utilities and other market participants solutions that forecast needs including load growth, new facilities requirements, customer reaction to proposed programs and rates, software for day ahead and other predictive needs. Itron provides forecasting services and software products to improve system operation, scheduling, risk management and financial performance.
We use a combination of direct and indirect sales channels. We primarily utilize direct sales, technical and administrative support teams to serve the needs of the large electric, gas and water utilities. At December 31, 2002, we had approximately 70 employees in direct sales and technical support. For other utilities, we conduct sales and technical support activities primarily through distributors, representative agencies and end-manufacturer representatives. At December 31, 2002, we had approximately 30 indirect channel representatives. We also sell electric and water meter modules through original equipment manufacturer arrangements with several major meter manufacturers, in which the manufacturers incorporate our meter modules at their own facilities into new meters and then offer them for sale. In addition to selling our own AMR modules, we license AMR technology to certain electric meter manufacturers who either manufacture their own AMR modules or who imbed our AMR technology into their meters. Cumulatively, as of December 31, 2002, over 1.5 million electric meters have Itron’s AMR technology through these licensing arrangements. In addition to utilities, we also call on other energy market participants including regional transmission organizations, independent transmission companies, energy service providers and large energy users.
We address the market and serve our customers through four business units:
Electric: This business unit focuses on roughly 120 investor-owned utilities. The utilities are primarily located in the U.S. and Canada and represent large electric, and combination electric and gas utilities. In total, these customers represent approximately 102 million electric meters, 27 million gas meters and 4 million water meters.
Natural Gas: This business unit focuses on approximately 80 U.S. and Canadian investor-owned utilities, including subsidiaries, encompassing approximately 40 million gas meters and 3 million electric meters.
Water and Public Power: This business unit focuses on approximately 50,000 water utilities, over 2,000 municipalities providing electric, gas and/or water service and over 900 electric cooperative utilities in the U.S. and Canada. The largest utilities in this segment include over 130 water utilities and municipalities, representing approximately 29 million water meters, 4 million electric meters and 1 million gas meters.
International: This business unit focuses on sales of products, systems and services outside of the U.S. and Canada. We estimate that outside of the U.S. and Canada, there are approximately 900 million to 1.2 billion meters. We have a significant handheld meter reading market share with utilities in Japan, Korea, Australia, and parts of Europe. Interest in AMR systems and technology varies widely from country to country and overall is at a very early penetration level.
Marketing activities include market intelligence, marketing communications, customer relationship management, and regulatory and legislative affairs. Our marketing efforts focus on Company and product brand awareness and recognition principally through an integrated marketing communications approach including trade shows, symposiums, brochures and collateral, published papers, the Itron website, advertising, direct mail, electronic communications, newsletters, conferences, annual users forums, industry standards committee representation and regulatory support. We maintain communications with our customers through integrated marketing communication campaigns. Additionally, we are continuing to build and expand our customer relationship management system based upon Siebel software.
We attend and participate in several major industry conferences each year, which include the DistribuTECH Conference and the Automatic Meter Reading Association Conference. Our Annual Users Conferences offer an important opportunity for Itron and our customers to come together and share ideas about Itron products, industry happenings and customer needs.
We have maintained our leadership position in part because of our commitment to developing new products and continued enhancement of existing products. Our next generation technology development is primarily focused on data collection, communications technologies and software applications. We also invest in expanding and upgrading new hardware and software platforms for handheld and automatic meter reading systems. We spent $36.8 million and $30.0 million on product development in 2002 and 2001, respectively. Over 50% of our 2002 product development dollars were spent developing future products.
We manufacture meter modules and other communications technology products, as well as certain peripheral equipment. Our primary manufacturing objective is to participate in the design through concurrent engineering and produce cost effective, high quality meter modules and network components utilizing high volume production equipment and processes. We outsource the manufacturing of certain handheld systems and peripheral equipment, as well as other low volume AMR products, to a contract manufacturer in which we have a 30% ownership interest. The contract manufacturer leases approximately 30,000 square feet, or 21%, of our Spokane facility. In addition, most of our handheld systems products, telephone modules and international meter module products are manufactured for us by third parties.
Our primary manufacturing facility is located in Waseca, Minnesota. We currently have the capacity to produce approximately 6.4 million (combination of electric, gas and water) meter modules annually on a three-shift basis. We are currently running at approximately 70% capacity in total, however, capacity for individual products varies throughout the year depending on current demand. Itron is committed to pursuing annual outside quotes for the production of its meter modules to ensure that its manufacturing is cost competitive and to maintain a base of contract manufacturers that are familiar with the products and capable of producing them.
We have installed extensive automated testing equipment in our manufacturing facility to provide quality control and process repeatability. Our testing includes both visual inspection and automated testing of the technical parameters established for each of our products. Our quality control equipment also includes a sophisticated information system that collects data from testing equipment and provides extensive reports and analysis of such data. This information system permits us to promptly identify potential problems or weaknesses in our manufacturing processes. During 2003, we intend to upgrade our quality system to ISO 9000-2000 and receive ISO 14000 certification for environmental compliance.
As of December 31, 2002, we employed 1,434 full-time regular and contract manufacturing persons, 30% in manufacturing, 37% in product development, 4% in marketing and IT, 10% in service and support, 10% in finance and corporate administration and 9% in our business units.
Of these employees, 94.2% were located in the U.S., 1.8% in Canada, 1.7% in Australia and 2.3% in Europe. None of our domestic employees are represented by a labor union. We have not experienced any work stoppages and consider our employee relations to be healthy.
Although we are the industry leader in supplying energy and water data collection products, systems and services to the utility industry in the U.S. and Canada, and in many other areas around the world, we face competition from a variety of companies in each of the markets we serve. The large market potential for meter reading automation has led communications, electronics and other companies to begin developing and marketing
various systems. Some of these companies currently compete, and in the future others may compete with our products, systems, and services. These competitors can be expected to offer a variety of technologies and communications approaches, as well as meter reading, installation and other services to utilities and other industry participants. There are several market participants that may be both competitors and partners. We expect competition in the AMR market to increase as current competitors and new market entrants introduce competitive products.
As of December 31, 2002, we had a greater than 50% market share of AMR meter modules shipped to date in the U.S. and Canada. The next largest competitor is Schlumberger, which we estimate represents roughly 25% of the installed market. There are also a few system providers, radio-based and power-line-carrier-based, most of whom are narrowly focused, that have recently been awarded systems at utilities, including companies such as DCSI, Datamatic, Hexagram, Hunt, Invensys, Neptune, Nexus, Ramar, and Trace.
We face competition in energy information management from a number of companies such as ABB, ICF Kaiser, Lodestar, and Siemens. In competitive wholesale markets in California and Ontario, Canada, we have partnered with ABB and Cap Gemini to offer a total integrated system solution. We may continue to partner with some of these companies, as well as other consulting and system integration companies, to address future competitive energy markets with Itron systems.
We believe that as we expand our offerings towards optimizing energy delivery there are several very large suppliers of equipment, services or technology to the utility industry that have developed or could develop competitive products for this market, such as ABB, Invensys and Siemens. Similarly, we believe that as we move towards offering systems and solutions for end-use customers, we will face competition from billing and in-building controls companies. We hope to develop cooperative relationships with several of these companies to jointly develop and offer solutions to the market.
In the market for utility field workforce automation, we expect to compete with companies such as DB Microware, MDSI and Utility Partners.
For our transmission systems products we compete with Power Line Systems and others. In the distribution software business, we compete with Cook-Hurlbert and GE/Smallworld. Additionally, Roussey and Enghouse offer underground distribution products. In the engineering consulting business the primary competitors are Black and Veatch, Power Engineers and Sargent and Lundy along with other regional players.
We own or license numerous U.S., Canadian and foreign patents and have filed various patent applications. These patents cover a range of technologies for meter reading, portable handheld computer and AMR related technologies. We also rely on copyrights to protect our proprietary software and documentation. We have registered trademarks for most of our major product lines in the U.S. and many foreign countries. The Company is currently involved in a legal action related to a patent dispute. As a result, the Company has redesigned its current products that were found by a jury to infringe on a third party patent. We believe that our continued success will be based on continued innovation, market knowledge, technical and marketing capabilities, existing relationships with utilities and a fundamental commitment to customer service excellence.
FCC Regulation and Allocation of Radio Frequencies
Certain of our products made for use in the U.S. use radio frequencies, the access to and use of which are regulated by the FCC pursuant to the Communications Act of 1934, as amended. In general, a radio station license issued by the FCC is required to operate a radio transmitter. The FCC issues these licenses for a fixed term, and the licenses must be periodically renewed. Because of interference constraints, the FCC can generally issue only a limited number of radio station licenses for a particular frequency band in any one area.
Although radio licenses generally are required for radio stations, Part 15 of the FCC’s rules permit certain low-power radio devices (Part 15 devices) to operate on an unlicensed basis. Part 15 devices are designed for use on frequencies used by others. These other users may include licensed users, which have priority over Part 15 users. Part 15 devices are not permitted to cause harmful interference to licensed users and must be designed to accept interference from licensed radio devices. Our radio meter modules are Part 15 devices that transmit information back to either the handheld, mobile or network AMR reading devices in the 910-920 MHz band pursuant to these rules.
On May 24, 2002, the FCC adopted the service rules governing the use of the 1427-1432 MHz band. The Company was originally granted a nationwide license to operate in the band during 1994. Among other things, the new rules reserve the upper 2.5 MHz of the band for general telemetry, including utility telemetry, and provide that non-exclusive licenses will be issued in accordance with Part 90 rules and the recommendations of frequency coordinators. Telemetry licensees must comply with power limits and out-of-band emission requirements that are designed to avoid interference with the use of the lower part of the band by hospitals. Although the FCC will issue licenses on a non-exclusive basis, and it is possible that the demand for spectrum will exceed supply, we believe that the Company will continue to have access to spectrum in the 1429.5-1432 MHz band under favorable conditions.
We enter into short-term and long-term contracts to supply hardware, software and services to our customers. Long-term (multi-year or annual) contracts are subject to rescheduling or cancellation by our customers. Bookings and backlog can be highly variable from period to period primarily due to the nature and timing of large orders.
Backlog is not a complete measure of our business and pertains only to manufactured products and associated software and services, such as installation services. Software only sales tend to be book and ship business, so that at the end of an accounting period little or no software backlog exists for software only orders. Bookings for a reported period represent the revenue value of contracts signed during a specified period except for those related to annual maintenance, joint use (utility pole surveys) and engineering services. Instead, revenues from these contracts are included in bookings during the quarter in which the revenues are earned. At December 31, 2002, the estimated value of these contracts approximates $45 million on an annual basis.
Total backlog represents the revenue value of undelivered contractual orders, excluding annual maintenance, joint use and engineering services contracts. Twelve-month backlog represents the estimated portion of total backlog that will be earned over the next twelve months.
Information for bookings and backlog by quarter for 2002 and 2001 is as follows ($ in millions):
Note that beginning total backlog, plus current quarter bookings, less current quarter sales and service revenues will not always equal ending total backlog due to miscellaneous contract adjustments and other factors.
In the ordinary course of our business, we use metals, solvents, and similar materials that are stored on site. The waste created by use of these materials is transported off-site on a regular basis by a state-registered waste hauler. Itron has made a concerted effort to eliminate the use of mercury and other hazardous materials in its products. Itron complies with state and federal regulations regarding storage, emissions, and the disposal of waste.
The Company’s SEC filings are available under the Investor Relations section of Itron’s website at www.itron.com. The SEC filings are available free of charge on the website as soon as practicable after they are filed with or furnished to the SEC.
Itron, Linesoft, and ERT, are registered trademarks of Itron, Inc. MV-90, Service-Link, and “Knowledge to Shape Your Future” are trademarks of Itron, Inc.
Itron is dependent on the utility industry, which has experienced volatility:
We derive substantially all of our revenues from sales of products and services to the utility industry. Purchases of our products are, to a substantial extent, deferrable in the event that utilities reduce capital expenditures as a result of mergers and acquisitions, pending or unfavorable regulatory decisions, poor revenues due to weather conditions, rising interest rates or general economic downturns, among other factors. We have experienced variability of operating results, on both an annual and a quarterly basis as a result of these factors.
The utility industry, both domestic and foreign, is generally characterized by long budgeting, purchasing and regulatory process cycles that can take up to several years to complete. Our utility customers typically issue requests for quotes and proposals, establish evaluation committees, review different technical options with vendors, analyze performance and cost/benefit justifications and perform a regulatory review, in addition to applying the normal budget approval process within a utility.
In the past, we have experienced considerable delays in purchase decisions by utilities that have become parties to merger or acquisition transactions. Often such purchase decisions are put on hold indefinitely when merger negotiations begin. If we were to experience a high amount of industry merger and acquisition activity, our revenues could be materially adversely affected. In the past, the unbundling of metering and certain other services from the basic transport aspects of electricity distribution resulted in significant delays in purchasing decisions as those regulations were being analyzed, which had a material adverse impact on our business. If we were to experience future state or other regulatory decisions that cause a delay in purchasing decisions, changes in our customer base, or requirements to modify our products and services (or develop new products or services) to meet the needs of market participants, our results could be materially and adversely affected.
Itron’s acquisitions of and investments in third parties carry risks:
Acquisitions and investments may involve numerous risks such as the diversion of senior management’s attention from the core business, unsuccessful integration of the acquired entity’s operations, technologies and products, lack of market acceptance of new services and technologies, or a shift in industry dynamics that negatively impacts the forecasted demand of the new products. Impairment of an investment, or goodwill and intangible assets may result if these risks materialize. In addition, acquisitions may involve the assumption of
obligations or significant one-time write-offs. In order to finance any future acquisitions, we may need to raise additional funds through public or private financings.
Itron utilizes financing from third parties:
Itron may utilize financing for outsourcing contracts, business expansion efforts or other capital requirements. The risks associated with indebtedness include the commitment of a portion of our cash flow from operations to payments on the indebtedness, limited flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our business and the industry in which we operate, and interest rate fluctuations (additionally refer to the Subsequent Event section).
Itron’s quarterly results may fluctuate substantially:
While we were profitable in fiscal years 2002, 2001 and 2000, we experienced operating losses in some quarters during those periods and in periods prior to 2000. There can be no assurance that we will maintain consistent profitability on a quarterly or annual basis. We have experienced variability of quarterly results and believe our quarterly results will continue to fluctuate as a result of factors such as costs related to acquisitions, legal activity, changes in internal structure, size and timing of significant customer orders, FCC or other governmental actions, the gain or loss of significant customers, timing and levels of new product developments, shifts in product or sales channel mix, increased competition and pricing pressure, and the general economic conditions affecting enterprise spending for the energy industry. In addition, financial results may fluctuate due to new accounting standards or changes to existing accounting standards affecting the timing of revenue and expense recognition.
Itron depends on its ability to develop new products:
We have made, and expect to continue to make, substantial investments in technology development. Our future success will depend, in part, on our ability to continue to design and manufacture new competitive products and to enhance our existing products. This product development will require continued investment in order to maintain our market position. There can be no assurance that unforeseen problems will not occur with respect to the development, performance or market acceptance of our technologies or products. Although we have rigorous product lifecycle processes, there can be no assurance that we will meet our product development schedules. There can be no assurance that we will have market acceptance of our new products and solutions. International market acceptance for AMR systems varies by country based on such factors as the regulatory and business environment, labor costs and other economic conditions.
Itron has a limited number of large customer contracts:
In some years, our revenues are concentrated with a limited number of customers, the identity of which changes over time. From time to time, we are dependent on large, multi-year contracts that are subject to cancellation or rescheduling by our customers. Cancellation or postponement of one or more of these contracts could have a material adverse effect on the Company.
Itron is facing increasing competition:
We face competitive pressures from a variety of companies in each of the markets we serve. Some of our present and potential future competitors have or may have substantially greater financial, marketing, technical or manufacturing resources, and in some cases, greater name recognition and experience. Our competitors may be able to respond more quickly to new or emerging technologies and changes in customer requirements. They may also be able to devote greater resources to the development, promotion and sale of their products and services than we can. In addition, current and potential competitors may make strategic acquisitions or establish cooperative relationships among themselves or with third parties that increase their ability to address the needs of
our prospective customers. It is possible that new competitors or alliances among current and new competitors may emerge and rapidly gain significant market share. If we cannot compete successfully against current or future competitors, it could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flow.
Itron is affected by availability and regulation of radio spectrum:
A significant portion of our products use radio spectrum and in the U.S. are subject to regulation by the FCC. Licenses for radio frequencies must be obtained and periodically renewed. There can be no assurance that any license granted to us or our customers will be renewed on acceptable terms, if at all, or that the FCC will keep in place rules for our frequency bands that are compatible with our business. In the past, the FCC has adopted changes to the requirements for equipment using radio spectrum, and it is possible that the FCC or Congress will adopt additional changes in the future.
We have committed, and will continue to commit, significant resources to the development of products that use particular radio frequencies. Action by the FCC could require modifications to our products. If we are unable to modify our products to meet such requirements, we could experience delays in completing such modifications, or the cost of such modifications could have a material adverse effect on our future financial condition and results of operations.
Our radio-based products currently employ both licensed and unlicensed radio frequencies. There must be sufficient radio spectrum allocated by the FCC for our intended uses. As to the licensed frequencies, there is some risk that there may be insufficient available frequencies in some markets to sustain our planned operations. The unlicensed frequencies are available for a wide variety of uses and are not entitled to protection from interference by other users. In the event that the unlicensed frequencies become unacceptably crowded or restrictive, and no additional frequencies are allocated, our business could be materially adversely affected.
We are also subject to regulatory requirements in international markets that vary by country. To the extent we wish to introduce products designed for use in the U.S. or another country into a new market, such products may require significant modification or redesign in order to meet frequency requirements and power specifications. Further, in some countries, limitations on frequency availability or the cost of making necessary modifications may preclude us from selling our products.
A number of key personnel are critical to the success of Itron’s business:
Our success depends in large part upon our ability to retain highly qualified technical and management personnel, the loss of one or more of whom could have a material adverse effect on our business. Our success depends upon our ability to continue to attract and retain highly qualified personnel in all disciplines.
Itron may face liability associated with the use of products on which patent ownership or other intellectual property rights are claimed:
Itron is or may be subject to claims or inquiries regarding our alleged unauthorized use of a third party’s intellectual property. An adverse outcome in any intellectual property litigation could subject us to significant liabilities to third parties, require us to license technology from others, require us to cease marketing or using certain products, or require us to redesign certain products, any of which could negatively affect our business, financial condition and operating results. If we are required to seek licenses under patents or proprietary rights of others, we may not be able to acquire these licenses on acceptable terms, if at all. In addition, the cost of responding to an intellectual property infringement claim, in terms of legal fees and expenses and the diversion of management resources, whether or not the claim is valid, could harm our business, financial condition and operating results.
Itron may be unable to adequately protect its intellectual property:
While we believe that our patents, trademarks and other intellectual property have significant value, it is uncertain that these patents and trademarks, or any patents or trademarks issued in the future, will provide meaningful competitive advantages. There can be no assurance that our patents or pending applications will not be challenged, invalidated or circumvented by competitors or that rights granted there under will provide meaningful proprietary protection. Detecting infringement and misappropriation of intellectual property can be difficult, time consuming, and costly. If we detect infringement or misappropriation, litigation could be ultimately unsuccessful.
Itron depends on certain key vendors:
Certain of our products, subassemblies and system components are procured from a single source, and others are procured only from limited sources. Our reliance on such components or on these limited or sole source vendors or subcontractors involves certain risks, including the possibility of shortages, obsolescence and reduced control over delivery schedules, manufacturing capability, quality and costs.
Itron may face warranty exposure:
Itron generally provides product warranties for varying lengths of time. In anticipation of such expenses, we establish allowances for the estimated liability associated with product warranties. However, these warranty allowances may be inadequate, and we may incur additional warranty expenses in the future with respect to new or established products.
Itron is subject to international business uncertainties:
International sales and operations may be subject to risks such as the imposition of government controls, political instability, restrictions on the export of critical technology, currency exchange rate fluctuations, availability of qualified third party financing, generally longer collection periods, trade restrictions, changes in tariffs, difficulties in staffing and managing international operations, and potential insolvency of international dealers. In addition, the laws of certain countries do not protect our products to the same extent as do the laws of the U.S. There can be no assurance that these factors will not have a material adverse effect on our future international sales and, consequently, on our business, financial condition, and results of operations.
Itron has anti-takeover provisions in place that make it more difficult for a third party to acquire the Company:
We have the authority to issue 10 million shares of preferred stock in one or more series, and to fix the powers, designations, preferences, and relative, participating, optional or other rights thereof without any further vote or action by our shareholders. The issuance of preferred stock could dilute the voting power of holders of common stock and could have the effect of delaying or preventing a change in control of the Company. Certain provisions of our Restated Articles of Incorporation, Restated Bylaws, shareholder rights plan and employee benefit plans, as well as Washington state law, may operate in a manner that could discourage or render more difficult a takeover of the Company or the removal of management, or may limit the price certain investors may be willing to pay in the future for our shares of common stock.
Itron is subject to regulatory compliance:
We are subject to various governmental regulations related to occupational safety and health, labor, and wage practices. We are subject to various government regulations regarding the performance of certain engineering services. We believe that we are currently in material compliance with such regulations. Failure to comply with current or future regulations could result in the imposition of substantial fines, suspension of production, alteration of our production processes, cessation of operations, or other actions which could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations.
Itron may incur liability arising from the use of hazardous materials:
In the ordinary course of our business, we use metals, solvents, and similar materials, which are stored on site. The waste created by use of these materials is transported off-site on a regular basis by a state-registered waste hauler. We are subject to federal, state, and local regulations relating to the storage, discharge, handling, emission, generation, manufacture, and disposal of toxic or other hazardous substances used to produce our products. Failure to comply with current or future environmental regulations could result in the imposition of substantial fines, suspension of production, alteration of our production processes, cessation of operations, or other actions which could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations. Although we are not aware of any material claim or investigation with respect to these activities, there can be no assurance that such a claim will not arise, or that the cost of complying with governmental regulations in the future, will not have a material adverse effect on us.
Itron’s stock price may be subject to volatility:
The market price of our common stock has experienced fluctuations since it commenced trading in 1993 and is likely to fluctuate significantly in the future. Our stock price can fluctuate due to a number of factors such as general market conditions, the economy, stock sales by executive officers, variations in quarterly operating results, announcements about us or our competitors, announcements of significant contracts, acquisitions, strategic partnerships or capital commitments, the introduction of new technology or products by us or our competitors, conditions and trends in the energy industry, comments regarding us or the industry by analysts, and changes in earnings estimates.
Set forth below are the names, ages, titles with the Company, and principal occupations and employment for the last five years of the persons serving as executive officers of Itron as of March 14, 2003.
Robert D. Neilson
Vice President, Transmission and Distribution (T&D) Solutions Group
Michael A. Cantelme
Vice President, Client Services Group
Russell N. Fairbanks, Jr.
John W. Hengesh, Jr.
Vice President and General Manager, Natural Gas and Water & Public Power
Randi L. Neilson
Vice President, Marketing and Information Technology
Jemima G. Scarpelli
Douglas L. Staker
Vice President, Mobile and Network Telemetry Systems Group
Vice President and General Manager, Electric
Robert W. Whitney
Vice President, Manufacturing and Supply Chain Management
Vice President and General Manager, End User Solutions and Energy Management Solutions Group
LeRoy Nosbaum was named Chairman of the Board in May 2002 and Chief Executive Officer in March 2000. Since joining Itron in 1996, LeRoy has held positions as Chief Operating Officer and Vice President with responsibilities over manufacturing, product development, operations and marketing.
Rob Neilson was appointed as a Director of Itron in February 2002, named President in October 2001 and Chief Operating Officer in March 2000. Rob joined Itron in 1983 and has held several positions including Vice President, Strategy and Business Development, as well as Vice President, Marketing.
Bill Brown was named Vice President, T&D Solutions Group in June 2002. Bill joined Itron in 1997 as Vice President, Network Systems Operations, and was named Vice President of Competitive Resources in January 2000.
Mike Cantelme joined Itron in July 2000 as Vice President, Client Services Group. From 1998 to 2000 Mike worked with Teligent, L.L.C. as Region Vice President of the Southern Region. Mike served in a number of positions including sales and customer installations while at Teligent.
Russ Fairbanks joined Itron in January 2000 as Vice President and General Counsel. From 1997 to 1999 Russ served as Vice President and General Counsel for ASM America, Inc., a manufacturer of chemical vapor deposition equipment used to make integrated circuits.
Steve Helmbrecht joined Itron in September 2002 as Vice President and General Manager, International business unit. Prior to joining Itron, Steve was Chief Financial Officer of LineSoft Corporation beginning in 2000. Prior to joining LineSoft, Steve spent seven years with SS&C Technologies, Inc., a software company focused on portfolio management and accounting systems for institutional investors.
John Hengesh, Jr. is Vice President and General Manager, Natural Gas and Water & Public Power business units. Since joining Itron in 1984, John has served in a number of positions covering sales, marketing, hardware and software development, manufacturing, quality, and customer and field support.
Randi Neilson was named Vice President, Marketing in January 2000. Randi assumed responsibility for Information Technology (IT) in July 2002. Randi joined Itron in 1990 and has served in a number of positions most recently as Director of Solutions and Product Marketing.
Dave Remington joined Itron in 1996 as Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. Before joining Itron, Dave was an investment banker specializing in structured asset-based financings including power and energy related transactions.
Mima Scarpelli was named Vice President, Investor Relations and Corporate Communications in January 2000. Mima joined Itron in 1985 and has held numerous positions in the finance and accounting area including Treasurer and Controller.
Doug Staker was named Vice President, Mobile and Network Telemetry Systems Group in January 2002 and is the Director of Product Marketing. Doug joined Itron in 1989, and has held a number of positions within the Company, including Product Manager for Electric ERT Products and Product Manager for Fixed Network Systems.
Russ Vanos returned to Itron as Vice President and General Manager, Electric business unit in January 2001. Russ first joined Itron in 1980 and has held numerous positions, including Vice President, Utility and Energy Services Solutions from 1997 until January 2000. During 2000, Russ was Vice President of Sales at LineSoft.
Bob Whitney was named Vice President, Manufacturing and Supply Chain Management in April 2000. Bob joined Itron in 1992 and has held numerous positions such as Director of Manufacturing for Itron’s Minnesota operations.
John Woolard was named Vice President and General Manager, End User Solutions business unit and Energy Management Solutions Group in March 2003. John joined the Company upon Itron’s acquisition of Silicon Energy Corporation. John co-founded Silicon Energy and was their President, Chief Executive Officer, and Chairman of the Board since December 1997.
Our headquarters consist of approximately 141,000 square feet of owned space in Spokane, Washington. We sublease approximately 30,000 square feet of our headquarters to a subcontract manufacturer in which we have a 30% ownership interest. In Raleigh, North Carolina, we lease approximately 77,000 square feet. In Waseca, Minnesota, we lease 106,000 square feet of manufacturing and engineering space. In association with the 2002 acquisitions of LineSoft, RER, and eMobile, we added approximately 72,000 square feet of leased facilities in the U.S. and Canada. In addition, we have approximately 33,000 square feet of leased space in various cities in North America for sales and service. Our International business unit leases sales offices in the United Kingdom, France and Australia. The above facilities are in good condition and we believe our current manufacturing and other properties will be sufficient to support our operations for the foreseeable future.
Benghiat Patent Litigation
On April 3, 1999, the Company served Ralph Benghiat, an individual, with a complaint seeking a declaratory judgment in the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota (Civil Case No. 99-cv-501) that a patent owned by Benghiat (patent no. 5,757,456, the ‘456 patent) is invalid and not infringed by Itron’s handheld meter reading devices. On April 23, 1999 Benghiat filed a counterclaim alleging patent infringement by the same devices. Both lawsuits were filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota. The case went to trial before a jury on December 9, 2002. On December 20, 2002 the jury returned a verdict and found that Itron’s manual entry handheld meter reading devices sold in the U.S. since April 1993 infringed the ‘456 patent. The jury awarded Benghiat damages in an amount of $7.4 million dollars, which represents a royalty of approximately 5% on revenues from infringing products sold from 1993 to the date of the verdict. Itron accrued that amount in 2002. The jury also found that Itron’s infringement was willful. As such, Benghiat has asked the court to treble the damages and award him attorney’s fees. Benghiat may seek to enjoin the sale of infringing products. Although Itron continues to believe that its products do not infringe the ‘456 patent, it has nevertheless redesigned its current products that were found to infringe by the jury and has received an opinion of its outside patent counsel that the redesigned products do not infringe the ‘456 patent. The redesign has changed the functionality of the products, which may impact future customer acceptance. It is difficult to predict whether this will have a material impact on future revenues or net income. Revenues related to the infringing products were approximately $20 million in 2002. The court has not rendered judgment based on the jury’s verdict and will not do so until a number of post-trial motions by both parties have been made and ruled on by the court. Final judgment is not expected to be entered until April 2003 or later. Itron is also evaluating grounds for appeal. There can be no assurance, however, that Itron will prevail on appeal.
The Company is not involved in any other material legal proceedings.
No matters were submitted to a vote of shareholders of Itron during the fourth quarter of 2002.
ITEM 5: MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
Itron’s common stock is traded on the NASDAQ National Market. The following table reflects the range of high and low common stock sales prices for the four quarters of 2002 and 2001 as reported by the NASDAQ National Market.
At February 28, 2003 there were approximately 501 holders of record of our Common Stock.
We have never declared or paid cash dividends. We intend to retain future earnings for the development of our business and do not anticipate paying cash dividends in the foreseeable future.
The section entitled “Equity Compensation Plan Information” appearing in the 2002 Proxy Statement sets forth certain information required by Item 201(d) of Regulation S-K and is incorporated herein by reference.
ITEM 6: SELECTED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle, net of income taxes of $1,581
The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with “Selected Consolidated Financial Information” and the Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes thereto.
The following discussion of our financial condition and results of operations contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties, such as statements of our plans, objectives, expectations and intentions. When included in this discussion, the words “expects,” “intends,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “plans,” “projects,” “estimates,” “future” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. However, these words are not the exclusive means of identifying such statements. In addition, any statements that refer to expectations, projections or other characterizations of future events or circumstances are forward-looking statements. Such statements are inherently subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those reflected in such forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, among others, the rate of customer demand for our products, forecast future revenues and costs on long-term contracts, changes in law and regulation (including FCC licensing actions), changes in the utility regulatory environment, delays or difficulties in introducing new products and acceptance of those products, increased competition and various other matters, many of which are beyond our control. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which apply only as of the date of this Form 10-K. The Company expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to update or revise any forward-looking statement contained herein to reflect any change on the Company’s expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based. For a more complete description of these and other risks, see “Certain Risk Factors.”
We currently derive the majority of our revenues from sales of products and services to utilities. However, our business may increasingly consist of sales to other energy and water industry participants such as energy service providers, end-user customers, wholesale power market participants and others.
Revenue Recognition: Sales consist of hardware, software license fees, custom software development, field and project management services, and engineering, consulting and installation services. Service revenues include post-sale maintenance support and outsourcing services. Outsourcing services encompass installation, operation and maintenance of meter reading systems to provide meter information to a customer for billing and management purposes. Outsourcing services can be provided for systems we own as well as those owned by our customers.
The Company recognizes revenues from hardware at the time of shipment, receipt, or, if applicable, upon completion of customer acceptance provisions. Revenues for software licenses, custom software development, field and project management services, engineering and consulting, installation, outsourcing and maintenance services are recognized when (1) persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, (2) delivery has occurred or services have been rendered, (3) the sales price is fixed or determinable, and (4) collectibility is reasonably assured. For software arrangements with multiple elements, revenue is recognized dependent upon whether vendor-specific objective evidence (VSOE) of fair value exists for each of the elements.
Under outsourcing arrangements, revenue is recognized as services are provided. Hardware and software post-contract customer support fees are recognized over the life of the related service contracts.
Inventories: Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market using the first-in, first-out method. Cost includes raw materials and labor, plus applied direct and indirect costs. Inventory is subject to rapidly changing technologies. There can be no assurance that technological advances will not cause some or all of our inventory to become obsolete or uneconomical.
Warranty: The Company offers standard warranty terms on most of our product sales of between one and three years. A provision for estimated warranty costs is recorded at the time of sale and periodically adjusted to reflect actual experience. The long-term warranty provision covers estimated standard warranty cost for the second and third years of customer use and future expected costs of testing and replacement of radio meter module batteries and fixed network equipment. Management continually evaluates the sufficiency of warranty provisions and makes adjustments when necessary. Actual warranty costs may fluctuate and may be different than amounts accrued.
Contingencies: The Company is subject to various legal proceedings and claims of which the outcomes are subject to significant uncertainty. An estimated loss from a contingency is accrued by a charge to income if it is probable that an asset has been impaired or a liability has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. The Company evaluates, among other factors, the degree of probability of an unfavorable outcome and the ability to make a reasonable estimate of the amount of loss. Changes in these factors could materially impact the Company’s financial position or its results of operations. The Company has been party to an ongoing legal dispute in regards to whether certain of its products infringe upon a third party patent. The Company has accrued $7.4 million in the fourth quarter of 2002 in connection with the patent litigation. The judge’s future rulings could have a material impact on the Company’s financial statements. Because the jury found the Company’s infringement was willful, the court may treble the damages award and assess attorney’s fees against the Company. Based on other motions before the court, the court may also reduce the damages award. Final judgment is not expected to be entered until April 2003 or later. The Company is also evaluating grounds for appeal.
Effective January 1, 2002, we realigned our organization from six business units, comprised of both customer segments and products, to four business units focused on the customer segments that we serve. Results from the former Client Services and Energy Information Systems (EIS) segments, which are now product groups, have been reclassified into our Electric, Natural Gas, Water & Public Power, and International business units for 2001 and 2000. Business unit results throughout this report have been reclassified to reflect our new 2002 organization.
Revenues for each business unit consist of hardware, software license fees, custom software development, field and project management services, and engineering, consulting and installation services. Service revenues include post-sale maintenance support and outsourcing services. Outsourcing services encompass installation, operation and maintenance of meter reading systems to provide meter information to a customer for billing and management purposes. Outsourcing services can be provided for systems we own as well as those owned by our customers. Inter-segment revenues are immaterial. Segment cost of sales are based on standard costs which include materials, direct labor and an overhead allocation based on projected production for the year. Variances from standard costs are included in Corporate cost of sales and are not allocated to the business units.
Total Company Revenues and Gross Margins
Revenues for 2002 were $284.8 million compared with $225.6 million in 2001 and $179.9 million in 2000. The higher revenues in 2002 principally reflect increased hardware deliveries to existing domestic customers in the form of electric, gas and water AMR modules. Domestic revenues increased 35% over 2001. The three
companies acquired in 2002 contributed a combined $11.2 million in revenue. Revenues declined in 2002 in our international markets and from our C&I meter data collection and analysis software licenses. Revenue growth in 2001 of 25% over 2000 was also primarily driven by increased hardware sales.
One customer represented 12% and 15% of total Company revenues in 2002 and 2001, respectively. Sales to this customer will continue through the fourth quarter of 2003 but will continue to decrease as a percentage of total Company revenues. Our customer concentration in revenue was about the same—in 2002, the top ten customers accounted for 45% of revenues, compared with 40% in 2001.
Gross margins improved year-over-year, growing to 46% in 2002 compared with 43% in 2001 and 39% in 2000. Improved domestic margins from 2000 to 2002 resulted from a combination of factors, including improved manufacturing efficiencies from higher production volumes and changes in product mix, specific cost reduction efforts, lower general market prices for electronic components and other supply-chain management initiatives. Service gross margins decreased in 2002 primarily due to a one-time increase in costs associated with a long-term service contract.
Segment Revenues and Gross Margins
The following tables and discussion highlights significant changes in trends or components of revenues and gross margin for each segment.
Water & Public Power
(1) Corporate is included so that total segment gross margin reconciles to total gross margin above.
Electric: Net revenues in 2002 increased by $37.1 million, or 37%, compared with 2001 primarily as a result of increased hardware shipments. Also contributing to the increase in revenues were the three acquisitions in 2002. Excluding the revenues from these acquisitions, revenue growth was 26% compared to 2001. In 2002, one customer represented 24% of the Electric business unit revenues and 12% of total Company revenues. In 2001, this customer represented 34% of the Electric business unit revenues and 15% of total Company revenues. Sales to this customer will continue through the fourth quarter of 2003 but will continue to decrease as a percentage of Electric and total Company revenues. The improved Electric segment margins resulted primarily from lower standard costs caused by higher production volumes and other manufacturing efficiencies, as well as a shift in the mix of products and services.
Electric segment revenues in 2001 were 61% higher than 2000 revenues and represented 44% of 2001 total revenues. The majority of this increase was due to continued shipments on the multi-year contract with the one significant customer. This customer represented 6% of the Electric business unit revenues and 2% of total Company revenues in 2000. Gross margin decreased 2% in 2001 compared to 2000 due to changes in the mix of customers and products.
Natural Gas: Net revenues increased by $14.6 million, or 41%, compared with 2001 primarily due to increased hardware shipments. In 2002, one customer represented 20% of the Natural Gas business unit revenues and 4% of total Company revenues. Sales to this customer will continue through early 2003 under the current contractual obligation but will continue to decrease as a percentage of Natural Gas and total Company revenues. No revenues were generated from this customer in 2001. The improved Natural Gas segment margins resulted primarily from lower hardware costs caused by higher production volumes and other manufacturing efficiencies. Natural Gas segment revenues declined 10% in 2001 compared with 2000, primarily due to the completion of large contracts in 2000 that were not replaced by similar business during 2001.
Water and Public Power: Net revenues increased by $19 million, or 29%, compared with 2001 as a result of increased hardware shipments and installation services. Sales through meter manufacturers and other indirect sales channels grew 31% in 2002. While Water and Public Power also benefited from higher hardware production volumes and manufacturing efficiencies, overall 2002 gross margins declined slightly due to increased lower margin installation sales as well as higher cost of service for our maintenance contracts.
Water and Public Power segment revenues were $5.0 million higher in 2001 compared with 2000 due to the initial deployment of modules for a multi-year AMR system for a new customer, the expansion of systems for existing customers, and increased shipments to meter manufacturers.
International: Net revenues decreased by $11.5 million, or 46%, compared with 2001. This decrease is primarily due to an $8.9 million handheld meter reading system sale made to a customer in Japan in 2001, which was not replaced with a comparable size order in 2002. During the fourth quarter of 2002, we announced plans to restructure the European operations to improve the long-term profitability and efficiency of International
operations. While we anticipate improved profitability of International operations in 2003, significant benefits from the restructuring efforts are not expected to be realized until after 2003. Margins were slightly higher in 2002 compared with 2001 due to a shift in product mix.
International segment revenues in 2001 increased 39%, or $7.1 million, over 2000 due to the significant handheld sale to a customer in Japan. Increased meter module sales in France and a large hardware installation of handheld sales in Australia in the second half of the year also contributed to 2001 International revenue growth. Gross margins decreased from 43% in 2000 to 34% in 2001, or 9%. The majority of this decrease was due to low margins on the large handheld shipments to Japan. In addition, we had more revenues from low margin AMR module shipments to customers in France in 2001 compared with 2000.
Corporate: The business units outlined above utilize standard costs, which include materials, direct labor and an overhead allocation, to record product cost of sales. Variances from standard costs are reported within Corporate cost of sales and are not allocated to the business units. Corporate costs of sales were comparable as a percentage of revenue in 2002 and 2001. The decrease in costs in 2001 compared with 2000 was primarily due to the combination of efficiencies gained through the consolidation of manufacturing facilities, higher than planned production volumes in 2001 and lower market prices on electronic components.
The following table details our total operating expenses in dollars and as a percent of revenues. Note that certain amounts in 2001 and 2000 have been reclassified to conform to the 2002 presentation.
Sales and marketing expenses increased $5.6 million in 2002 compared with 2001, but decreased slightly as a percentage of revenue. The increase was a result of additional product marketing, product management, and sales staffing primarily related to the companies acquired in 2002. The increase in 2001 compared to 2000 was primarily due to investments in marketing programs and systems, strategy and business development activities, and increased commissions due to higher sales.
Product development expenses increased $6.8 million in 2002 compared with 2001, however decreased slightly as a percentage of revenue. The increase was due to increased development spending related to acquisitions and increased staff levels. The increase of $8.7 million in 2001 compared with 2000 was driven by increased spending on next generation product development.
General and administrative expenses increased $9.9 million in 2002 compared with 2001, and 2.0% as a percent of revenue, due to increased information technology investments, legal fees, compensation, and staffing resources. In addition, $2.3 million of the increase resulted from the entities acquired in 2002. The decrease in 2001 over 2000 was primarily due to favorable negotiation of a new communications contract and reduced legal fees for patent and FCC matters.
Amortization of intangibles increased $900,000 in 2002 compared with 2001. Amortization increased as a result of the addition of $16.2 million in amortizable intangible assets from acquisitions completed in 2002. This was offset by the discontinuance of goodwill amortization in 2002 due to the implementation of SFAS No. 142 as of January 1, 2002. Goodwill amortization was $749,000 in 2001. The Company completed its initial impairment test of goodwill in the second quarter of 2002, and its annual impairment test in the fourth quarter of 2002, and concluded in both cases that goodwill was not impaired. We expect amortization expense to increase in 2003 as a result of a full year of amortization expense related to the 2002 acquisitions.
Restructuring expenses were $3.1 million in 2002 compared with a recovery of $1.2 million in 2001. In 2002, we expensed $3.1 million for planned costs related to the restructuring of our European operations. The restructuring plan will result in the closure of the Vienne, France office, a reduction in workforce, the consolidation of product development efforts into existing Company locations and the outsourcing of select production efforts in order to improve the overall profitability of our International operations. Restructuring activities are anticipated to be complete by mid-2003.
In January 2003, we announced plans to restructure our EIS product group in Raleigh, North Carolina. The restructure plan will result in an estimated charge of $2.0 to $2.5 million in 2003 related to workforce reductions.
Restructuring expenses in 2001 reflect a net credit as a result of reversals of charges in previous periods primarily due to sublease of office space under more favorable terms than originally anticipated.
Total operating expenses in 2002 increased $42.1 million compared with 2001. The 2002 expenses include three unusual expenses totaling $17.7 million: (1) a European restructure charge of $3.1 million, (2) a write-off of in-process research and development (IPR&D) related to the acquisition of LineSoft of $7.2 million, and (3) a litigation accrual related to the Benghiat patent suit of $7.4 million. Excluding these unusual items, operating expenses totaled $96.4 million, an increase of $24.4 million from 2001. However, the expenses as a percentage of revenue remained fairly consistent year to year. Approximately one third of the $24.4 million increase came from our 2002 acquisitions.
During 2002, we recorded $7.2 million in charges for IPR&D related to the acquisition of LineSoft as follows:
LineSoft’s
LineSoft Corporation
At the time of acquisition, LineSoft had five IPR&D projects, each contributing from 3% to 64% of the total IPR&D value. These projects were new versions of existing software products currently being sold, but were not subject to capitalization because they had not yet reached technological feasibility and had no alternative future use. We expect to benefit from the IPR&D projects as products that contain in-process technology are marketed and sold to end-users.
The following table shows other income (expense) and percent change from the prior year.
We had income related to equity in affiliates of $126,000 in 2002 compared with a loss of $616,000 in 2001. In 2001, we wrote-off approximately $850,000 of an investment in an affiliate. The loss from that write-off was partially offset with our share of income from other affiliates. The $1.1 million of equity in affiliates in 2000 resulted from increased sales of our water products by a distributor affiliate and a $150,000 net gain on the sale of our interest in another partially owned domestic affiliate.
In 2002, interest expense was $2.1 million compared with $5.1 million in 2001. The decrease in interest expense was primarily due to the conversion of convertible debt to equity and the early payoff of mortgage debt on the Company’s Spokane facility.
Included in 2002 other income (expense) was an $841,000 pretax gain from the sale of our Raleigh, NC facility and a $200,000 pretax gain from the early payoff of the mortgage on our Spokane facility. Included in 2000 other income (expense) was a $1.6 million pretax gain on the early extinguishment of subordinated debt.
The 2002 effective income tax rate was approximately 54% compared with 37% in 2001 and 38% in 2000. The increase over the prior years is primarily due to the non-deductible $7.2 million charge for in-process research and development (IPR&D). Excluding the impact of non-tax deductible IPR&D charges in 2002, the adjusted effective tax rate was 39%. Our effective income tax rate can vary from period to period because of fluctuations in foreign operating results, changes in the valuation allowances for deferred tax assets, new or revised tax legislation, and changes in the level of business performed in different tax jurisdictions.
During the fourth quarter of 2000, we implemented SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 101 (SAB 101), which outlines the Staff’s views on revenue recognition. As a result, we changed our revenue recognition for certain transactions related to customer acceptance, F.O.B. destination shipments, and outsourcing contracts under which we retain title to the related equipment. The implementation was accounted for as a cumulative change in accounting principle effective January 1, 2000.
Effective January 1, 2002, the Company adopted the provisions of SFAS No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets.” SFAS No. 142 provides that goodwill should be tested for impairment annually at the reporting unit level rather than being amortized over a useful life. The Company completed its initial impairment test of goodwill in the second quarter of 2002, and its annual impairment test in the fourth quarter of 2002, and concluded in both cases that goodwill was not impaired.
Operating activities: We generated $49.2 million of cash from operations in 2002 compared with $32.3 million in 2001 and $3.8 million in 2000. Net income, adjusted for the change in noncash charges and credits, contributed $4.6 million to the $16.9 million increase in cash flow from operations from 2001 to 2002. Although 2002 net income declined $4.8 million compared with 2001, noncash charges to income increased $9.4 million. The primary reason for the increase in noncash charges was a $7.2 million charge for acquired in-process research and development associated with the LineSoft acquisition.
In addition, changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions, contributed $12.3 million to the 2001 to 2002 increase in operating cash flow. This was driven primarily by a $7.4 million litigation accrual recorded in the fourth quarter, and a $2.1 million restructuring liability related to our International business unit. The costs associated with the restructuring accrual are expected to be substantially disbursed by mid-2003. The amount and timing of the payment, if any, in connection with the litigation accrual is unknown at this time.
Investing activities: During 2002, we liquidated short-term investments to fund business acquisitions. Net proceeds from short-term investments were $22.1 million in 2002, compared with net purchases of $22.2 million in 2001. No short-term investment activity occurred in 2000. During 2002, a total of $42.9 million in cash was used for business acquisitions. No cash was used for acquisitions in 2001 or 2000. Approximately $10.5 million in cash was used for property, plant and equipment purchases in 2002 compared with $7.6 million in 2001 and $11.6 million in 2000.
In 2002, we reclassified $5.1 million from restricted cash for a collateralized letter of credit into cash as a result of a new credit agreement that did not require the restriction.
In 2000, we received $32.8 million, net of expenses, from the sale of our network system at Duquesne Light Company, which is reflected in investing activities. Similar activity did not occur in 2002 or 2001.
In connection with the purchase of LineSoft in March 2002, the Company assumed a pre-existing loan in the amount of $2.0 million to the former Chief Executive Officer of LineSoft by renewing and replacing it with a new non-recourse promissory note, secured with the Company’s stock, in the same amount. The replacement note matures May 11, 2003, and bears interest at an annual rate of 6.0%. As of December 31, 2002, the loan balance was approximately $473,000.
Financing activities: During 2002, $12.6 million in cash was used to repurchase 807,900 shares of Itron’s common stock compared with $1.9 million for 85,100 shares in 2001 and none in 2000. In 2002, $7.7 million was received from employee stock purchase plan purchases and stock option exercises during the year compared with $7.8 million in 2001 and $2.1 million in 2000. In 2002, we used $4.9 million for the early repayment of mortgage debt and approximately $3.5 million to repay lines of credit and long-term debt assumed in the three acquisitions.
Financing activities used $4.9 million in cash in 2000 mostly due to $3.6 million used to pay down short-term bank borrowings and $2.1 million for the repurchase of subordinated debt in the first quarter of 2000.
We have no off-balance sheet financing agreements.
Investments: In 2002, we invested just under $2.0 million in an early stage start-up firm that is developing internet-based energy monitoring and management software and services. The firm, Lanthorn Technologies, has not yet produced any significant revenue. The form of the investment is a secured convertible note with a term of five years. We may convert the note at any time into the common stock of the firm. If we had converted our note into equity at December 31, 2002, it would have been converted into 19% of the firm’s common stock assuming that all granted stock options and other convertible debt of the firm were exercised or converted. We have also entered into a distribution and licensing agreement with the firm, which gives us non-exclusive distribution and licensing rights.
During 2001, we invested $500,000 in the common stock of an early stage metering services company. Later in 2001, we increased our investment by $350,000 in the form of senior, secured convertible debt. At the end of 2001, the company ceased its operations and we wrote-off the remaining amounts of our investment.
During 2000, we sold our low volume manufacturing operations and field service depot repair operations to a group of former employees, retaining a 30% equity interest in the form of convertible preferred stock. The company continues to manufacture low volume product and perform repair operations for us. The company’s operations are profitable.
During 2002, we liquidated our 50% investment in a partnership with a utility. The partnership’s purpose was to serve as a marketing vehicle for a defined territory comprised of and surrounding the utility’s service territory. There was no gain or loss from the liquidation, which resulted in a cash distribution of approximately $1.2 million. During 2002 and 2001, there was little partnership activity.
During 2001, we made a $500,000 common stock investment in a startup company involved in developing gateway and other metering-related products, for which we received a 10% equity interest. The company has not yet established a history of consistent revenue, has not yet reached breakeven cash flow and is currently looking for additional funding.
During the year ended December 31, 2001, we loaned $2.0 million, in the form of a convertible note receivable, to eMobile which was developing a web based wireless workforce management tool. The note remains as an intercompany note and is eliminated during the Company’s normal accounting consolidation of subsidiary operations.
Liquidity, Sources and Uses of Capital: At December 31, 2002, we had $32.6 million in cash and cash equivalents. During 2002, we utilized $42.9 million to complete the three acquisitions and $12.6 million to repurchase Company stock. We have historically funded our operations and growth with cash flow from operations, borrowings and sales of our stock. We are exposed to changes in interest rates on cash equivalents and short-term investments, which are rated A or better by Standard & Poor’s or Moody’s and which have market interest rates.
As of December 31, 2002, availability under our $35 million revolving line of credit was reduced by outstanding letters of credit of $15.0 million. We believe existing cash resources and available borrowings are adequate to meet our cash needs through 2003 (see discussion in Subsequent Event section regarding changes to our credit facility in connection with the acquisition of Silicon Energy).
During the second quarter of 2002, we redeemed all of our subordinated convertible debt totaling $53.3 million through the issuance of approximately 3.2 million shares of our common stock. There was a minimal cash impact as a result of this conversion.
We maintain performance and bid bonds for certain customers. The performance bonds usually cover the installation phase of a contract and may on occasion cover the operations and maintenance phase of outsourcing
contracts. Bonds in force were $40.3 million and $40.2 million at December 31, 2002 and 2001, respectively, some of which are guaranteed by standby letters of credit. The outstanding amounts of standby letters of credit were $15.0 and $11.6 million at December 31, 2002 and 2001, respectively. In addition, we guarantee lease payments for certain equipment leased by an affiliated company. In the event that the affiliate is unable to pay a monthly lease obligation, Itron would be required to make the payment. If Itron does not make the payment, the equipment would be returned to the lessor. The maximum future lease obligation of the guarantee at December 31, 2002 was $659,000. In the event that the equipment is not in working condition, Itron would be obligated to pay for the equipment to be returned to working condition. The lease and our guarantee terminate in 2006.
Working capital as of December 31, 2002 was $51.0 million compared with $66.6 million at December 31, 2001. The decrease in working capital is primarily due to an increase in current liabilities of $7.4 million related to the litigation accrual, a $2.1 million accrual related to restructuring activity, and the liquidation of previously held short-term investments to support acquisition activity.
The number of days outstanding for billed and unbilled accounts receivable was 62 and 69 days as of December 31, 2002 and 2001, respectively. Historically, the number of days outstanding ratio for the Company has been driven more by specific contract billing terms as compared to collection issues.
During the first quarter of 2002, we acquired LineSoft, a privately held company, for $43.5 million, including transaction expenses. The purchase price consisted of $21.7 million in cash and the issuance of 848,870 shares of Itron common stock. In addition, we are required to pay additional amounts to certain LineSoft shareholders of up to $13.5 million in the event that certain defined revenue targets in 2002, 2003 and/or 2004 are exceeded. 2002 revenues did not warrant an earnout payment. Any future earnout payments will be paid half in cash and half in our common stock.
On October 1, 2002, we completed the acquisition of Regional Economic Research, Inc., a company specializing in energy consulting, analysis, and forecasting services and software for $14.3 million in cash. The Company is required to pay additional amounts to certain RER shareholders of up to $4.0 million if certain defined revenue targets in 2003 and 2004 are exceeded. The form of any earnout payments, payable in cash and/or Company common stock, will be based solely upon Company discretion.
Also on October 1, 2002, we acquired eMobile Data Corporation, a provider of web-based workforce management solutions for utilities, with cash payments totaling $6.9 million and $2.5 million of non-cash consideration. Non-cash consideration primarily included the elimination of a $2.0 million note payable to Itron and a $500,000 royalty payable to Itron.
We expect to continue to expand our operations and grow our business through a combination of internal new product development, licensing technology from or to others, distribution agreements, partnership arrangements and acquisitions of technology or other companies. We expect these additional activities to be funded from existing cash, cash flow from operations, borrowings, and the issuance of common stock or other securities. We believe existing sources of liquidity will be sufficient to fund our existing operations for the foreseeable future, but offer no assurances. However, our liquidity requirements could be affected by our dependence on the stability of the energy industry, competitive pressures, international risks, intellectual property claims, as well as other factors described under “Certain Risk Factors” within Item 1 and “Qualitative and Quantitative Disclosures About Market Risk” within Item 7A, included in our Form 10-K.
In June 2001, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued SFAS No. 143, Accounting for Obligations Associated with the Retirement of Long-Lived Assets. The provisions of SFAS No. 143 address accounting and reporting for obligations associated with the retirement of tangible long-lived assets. This
statement is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after June 15, 2002. The adoption of SFAS No. 143 has not had a significant impact on the financial position or results of operations of the Company.
In August 2001, the FASB issued SFAS No. 144, Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, which supercedes FASB Statement No. 121, Accounting for the Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed Of. SFAS No. 144 requires that long-lived assets be measured at the lower of carrying amount or fair-value less cost to sell, whether reported in continuing operations or in discontinued operations, to include all components of an entity with operations that can be distinguished from the rest of the entity and that will be eliminated from the ongoing operations of the entity in a disposal transaction. The provisions of SFAS No. 144 are effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2001. The adoption of SFAS No. 144 has not had a significant impact on the financial position or results of operations of the Company, relative to its existing assets.
In April 2002, the FASB issued SFAS No. 145, Rescission of FASB Statements No. 4, 44, and 64, Amendment of FASB Statement No. 13, and Technical Corrections. SFAS No. 145 covers a variety of technical issues that will not have a material effect on our financial statements except for the rescission of SFAS No. 4, which required extinguishment of debt be treated as an extraordinary item. This rescission of SFAS No. 4 was effective for fiscal years beginning after May 15, 2002, with early adoption encouraged. The Company adopted SFAS No. 145 effective January 1, 2002 and reflected its $200,000 gain on extinguishment of debt in Other income (expense), as opposed to classifying it as an extraordinary item as was previously required. Prior years gains on the early extinguishment of debt have been reclassified to comply with SFAS No. 145.
In June 2002, the FASB issued SFAS No. 146, Accounting for Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities. The standard requires companies to recognize costs associated with exit or disposal activities when they are incurred rather than at the date of a commitment to an exit or disposal plan. The provisions of this statement are effective for exit or disposal activities that are initiated after December 31, 2002, with early application encouraged. The adoption of SFAS No. 146 may have an impact on the timing of the recognition of costs associated with future restructuring activities, as compared to current financial accounting and reporting requirements.
In November 2002, the FASB’s Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF) reached a consensus on EITF Issue No. 00-21, Revenue Arrangements with Multiple Deliverables. This Issue addresses certain aspects of the accounting by a company for arrangements under which it will perform multiple revenue-generating activities. In applying this Issue, generally, separate contracts with the same customer that are entered into at or near the same time are presumed to have been negotiated as a package and should, therefore, be evaluated as a single contractual arrangement. This Issue also addresses how contract consideration should be measured and allocated to the separate deliverables in the arrangement. The application of this Issue could impact the timing of revenue recognition when a contractual arrangement combines installation and hardware. This Issue is applicable to revenue arrangements entered into beginning in 2004. We are in the process of evaluating the impact of the Issue.
In November 2002, the FASB issued Interpretation 45, Guarantor’s Accounting and Disclosure Requirements for Guarantees, Including Indirect Guarantees of Indebtedness of Others. The Interpretation elaborates on the existing disclosure requirements for most guarantees, including loan guarantees such as standby letters of credit. It also clarifies that at the time a company issues a guarantee, the company must recognize an initial liability for the fair value, or market value, of the obligations it assumes under the guarantee and must disclose that information in its interim and annual financial statements. The provisions related to recognizing a liability at inception of the guarantee for the fair value of the guarantor’s obligations does not apply to product warranties. The initial recognition and initial measurement provisions apply on a prospective basis to guarantees issued or modified after December 31, 2002. The Company believes that adoption of the recognition and measurement provisions of Interpretation 45 will not have a material impact on its financial statements.
In December 2002, the FASB issued SFAS No. 148, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation—Transition and Disclosure. The standard provides additional transition methods for entities adopting the provisions to expense the fair value of stock options under SFAS No. 123, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation, and requires additional disclosure for entities that utilize SFAS No. 123 or Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees (APB 25). The provisions of this standard are effective for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2002. Although the Company will not be adopting the fair value provisions of SFAS No. 123, it has provided the required enhanced disclosures regarding stock-based compensation.
In January 2003, the FASB issued Interpretation 46, Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities. In general, a variable interest entity is a corporation, partnership, trust, or any other legal structure used for business purposes that either (a) does not have equity investors with voting rights or (b) has equity investors that do not provide sufficient financial resources for the entity to support its activities. Interpretation 46 requires a variable interest entity to be consolidated by the company that is subject to a majority of the risk of loss from the variable interest entity’s activities or entitled to receive a majority of the entity’s residual returns or both. The consolidation requirements of Interpretation 46 apply immediately to variable interest entities created after January 31, 2003. The consolidation requirements apply to older entities in the first fiscal year or interim period beginning after June 15, 2003. The Company believes that adoption of the recognition and measurement provisions of Interpretation 46 will not have a material impact on its financial statements.
Silicon Energy Corporation Acquisition: On March 4, 2003, Itron acquired Silicon Energy for merger consideration equal to $71.2 million less the repayment of approximately $4.2 million in convertible debt and other consideration primarily concerning the funding of Silicon Energy bonus payments. Of the merger consideration, $6.4 million was held back as an indemnification escrow amount. In addition to the $71.2 million mentioned above, other transaction costs of approximately $3 million were incurred. The amount of merger consideration is subject to a working capital adjustment that will be finalized within 45 days from closing. At closing, no working capital adjustment was deemed necessary. If a working capital adjustment is required, the amount of merger consideration will be adjusted accordingly.
Silicon Energy is a privately-held California based corporation that provides enterprise energy management solutions that enable utilities, energy service providers, governments, and commercial and industrial energy users to efficiently manage and apply energy consumption data, optimize the delivery and use of energy, mitigate risk, control energy costs, and optimize energy procurement.
Itron acquired Silicon Energy with a portion of cash on hand and the proceeds from a new $50 million three-year term loan, repayable over three years with level principal payments. The interest on the term loan at closing was 3.8125% and will vary according to market rates and the Company’s consolidated leverage ratio. The Company is required under the term loan to at all times, after 90 days after the closing date, maintain in effect one or more interest rate agreements with an aggregate notional principal amount of not less than 50% of the aggregate principal amount of the term loan with a term of not less than two years. The effect of the interest rate agreements will be to substantially fix or limit the interest rate on a portion of term loan principal.
The term loan is a component of a new $105 million three-year credit facility that was established coincident with the closing of the acquisition. In addition to the term loan, the new credit facility has a $55 million revolving loan feature. Of this amount, $20 million may only be used to collateralize an appeals bond in connection with the Benghiat patent litigation matter. Of the remaining $35 million of availability, $16.0 million is currently utilized by outstanding standby letters of credit.
The new credit facility is secured by substantially all tangible and intangible assets, including the stock of domestic subsidiaries and a portion of the stock of foreign subsidiaries if the later meet certain size tests, except assets related to outsourcing contracts that are or may be financed with a project financing.
Under the purchase method of accounting, the purchase price will be allocated to the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair values. The valuations of the assets and liabilities acquired are currently being performed by the Company and an independent appraiser. As the valuations are in process at this time, it is not now practicable for us to provide an opening balance sheet reflecting the fair values.
Reorganization: In January 2003, Itron announced a reorganization of its Energy Information Solutions (EIS) product group in Raleigh, North Carolina, which is responsible for product development and support activities for MV-90. The reorganization was driven by continued slow activity in the wholesale energy markets. Approximately 40 positions in Raleigh were eliminated. An estimated reorganization expense of $2.0 to $2.5 million will be reflected in 2003.
ITEM 7A: QUALITATIVE AND QUANTITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Interest Rate Risk: The table below provides information about our financial instruments that are sensitive to changes in interest rates. At December 31, 2002, we had fixed rate debt of approximately $5.4 million related to project financing. The fair value of the debt is $5.6 million at December 31, 2002 (See Notes 9 and 10 of our accompanying consolidated financial statements). The table below illustrates the expected cash flows for principal payments over the remaining life of the debt.
Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk: We conduct business in a number of foreign countries and, therefore, face exposure to adverse movements in foreign currency exchange rates. International revenue was 5% of total revenue for the year ended December 31, 2002. Since we do not use derivative instruments to manage all foreign currency exchange rate risks, the consolidated results of operations in U.S. dollars are subject to fluctuation as foreign exchange rates change. In addition, our foreign currency exchange rate exposures may change over time as business practices evolve and could have a material impact on our financial results.
Our primary exposure has related to non-dollar denominated sales, cost of sales and operating expenses in our subsidiary operations in France, the United Kingdom, and Australia. This means we have been subject to changes in the consolidated results of operations expressed in U.S. dollars. Other international business, consisting primarily of shipments from the U.S. to international distributors and customers in the Pacific Rim and Latin America, is predominantly denominated in U.S. dollars, which reduces our exposure to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates. In some cases where sales from the U.S. are not denominated in U.S. dollars, we have and may hedge our foreign exchange risk by selling the expected foreign currency receipts forward. There have been and there may continue to be large period-to-period fluctuations in the relative portions of international revenue that are denominated in foreign currencies.
Risk-sensitive financial instruments in the form of inter-company trade receivables are mostly denominated in U.S. dollars, while inter-company notes are denominated in local foreign currencies. As foreign currency exchange rates change, inter-company trade receivables impact current earnings, while inter-company notes are re-valued and result in translation gains or losses that are reported in other comprehensive income.
Because our earnings are affected by fluctuations in the value of the U.S. dollar against foreign currencies, we have performed a sensitivity analysis assuming a hypothetical 10% increase in the value of the dollar relative to the currencies in which our transactions are denominated. As of December 31, 2002, the analysis indicated that such market movements would not have had a material effect on our consolidated results of operations or on the fair value of any risk-sensitive financial instruments. The model assumes foreign currency exchange rates will shift in the same direction and relative amount. However, exchange rates rarely move in the same direction. This assumption may result in the overstatement or understatement of the impact of changing exchange rates on assets and liabilities denominated in a foreign currency. Consequently, the actual effects on operations in the future may differ materially from results of the analysis for 2002. We may, in the future, experience greater fluctuations in U.S. dollar earnings from fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates. We will continue to monitor and assess the impact of currency fluctuations and may institute more hedging alternatives.
Management is responsible for the preparation of our consolidated financial statements and related information appearing in this annual report. Management believes that the consolidated financial statements fairly reflect the form and substance of transactions and that the financial statements reasonably present our financial position and results of operations in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Management has included in our financial statements amounts based on estimates and judgments that it believes are reasonable under the circumstances.
Management’s explanation and interpretation of our overall operating results and financial position, with the basic financial statements presented, should be read in conjunction with the entire report. The Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, an integral part of the basic financial statements, provide additional detailed financial information. Our Board of Directors has an Audit and Finance Committee composed of non-management Directors. The Committee meets regularly with financial management and Deloitte & Touche LLP to review accounting control, auditing and financial reporting matters.
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Itron, Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2002 and 2001 and the related consolidated statements of operations, shareholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2002. Our audits also included the financial statement schedule listed in the Index at Item 15. These financial statements and financial statement schedule are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and financial statement schedule based on our audits.
In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Itron, Inc. and subsidiaries at December 31, 2002 and 2001 and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2002 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also, in our opinion, such financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly in all material respects the information set forth therein.
As discussed in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company changed its method of accounting for goodwill and other intangible assets in 2002 and revenues in 2000.
February 5, 2003 (March 4, 2003 as to Note 20)
Income before income taxes and cumulative effect of change in accounting principle
Pro forma amounts assuming SAB 101 is applied retroactively
Equipment used in outsourcing, net
L I A B I L I T I E S A N D S H A R E H O L D E R S ’ E Q U I T Y
Mortgage note and leases payable
Warranty and other obligations
Commitments and contingencies (Notes 9 and 18)
Common stock, no par value, 75 million shares authorized, 20,192,847 and 16,221,468 shares issued and outstanding
(42,348
Balances at January 1, 2000
Stock issues (repurchases):
Stock repurchased by Company
Conversion of subordinated debt
Reclassification adjustment for gains realized in net income, net of tax
Acquisition of LineSoft
Realization of accumulative currency translation losses due to restructuring
Forfeited interest, director compensation and amortization of discount on invested securities
Equity in affiliates, net
(30,371
Reclassification of restricted cash
Proceeds from the sale of equipment used in outsourcing, net
Acquisitions of LineSoft, RER, and eMobile, net of cash and cash equivalents
(38,029
Payments on project financing
Convertible subordinated debt repurchase
Acquisition of LineSoft in partial exchange for common stock
Debt to equity conversion
Conversion of debt issuance costs
Acquisition of eMobile, non-cash consideration
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Itron, Inc. and our wholly owned subsidiaries. All significant inter-company transactions and balances are eliminated. We consolidate all entities in which we have a greater than 50% ownership interest and over which we have control. We account for entities in which we have a 50% or less investment and exercise significant influence under the equity method of accounting. Entities in which we have less than a 20% investment and do not exercise significant influence are recognized under the cost method.
We consider all highly liquid instruments with original maturities of three months or less to be cash equivalents. Cash equivalents are recorded at cost, which approximates fair value.
The Company’s short-term investments are classified as available-for-sale and are recorded at market value. Investment purchases and sales are accounted for on a trade date basis and market value at a period end is based upon quoted market prices for each security. Realized gains and losses are determined on the specific identification method. Unrealized holding gains and losses, net of any tax effect, are recorded as a component of other comprehensive income.
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market using the first-in, first-out method. Cost includes raw materials and labor, plus applied direct and indirect costs. Service inventories consist primarily of sub-assemblies and components necessary to support post-sale maintenance. During 2000, we spun-off our low volume manufacturing and handheld repair service operation to an outside vendor in which we have a 30% equity interest. As a result of this transition, we had consigned inventory at our affiliate totaling $1.3 million at December 31, 2002 and $1.8 million at December 31, 2001.
Property, Plant and Equipment and Equipment used in Outsourcing
Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost. Depreciation, which includes the depreciation of assets recorded under capital leases, is computed using the straight-line method over the assets’ estimated useful lives of three to seven years, or over the term of the applicable capital lease, if shorter. Project management and installation costs and equipment used in outsourcing contracts are depreciated using the straight-line method over the shorter of the useful life or the term of the contract. Plant is depreciated over 30 years using the straight-line method. We review the carrying value of property, plant and equipment for impairment on a periodic basis; no significant impairment has been recognized.
Financial accounting standards require the capitalization of certain development costs for software to be marketed or sold after technological feasibility of the software is established. Due to the relatively short period between technological feasibility of a product and the completion of product development and the insignificance of related costs incurred during this period, no software development costs have been capitalized in the years ended December 31, 2002, 2001 and 2000. Internal use software development costs are capitalized and amortized over the estimated useful life of three years. In 2002 and 2001, we capitalized approximately $106,000 and $250,000 in internal use software development costs, respectively.
In accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (SFAS) No. 141, Business Combinations, the Company utilizes the purchase method of accounting for all business combinations completed after July 1, 2001. Business combinations accounted for under the purchase method include the results of operations of the acquired business from the date of acquisition. Net assets of the company acquired and intangible assets that arise from contractual/legal rights, or are capable of being separated, are recorded at their fair values at the date of acquisition. The balance of the purchase price after fair value allocations represents goodwill. Amounts allocated to in-process research and development are expensed in the period of acquisition.
Effective January 1, 2002, the Company adopted SFAS No. 142, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets. There was no write-down of goodwill upon adoption of SFAS No. 142. Goodwill is tested for impairment annually or more frequently if a significant event occurs. Intangible assets with a finite life are amortized based on estimated discounted cash flows over the weighted average useful life. Prior to the adoption of SFAS No. 142, goodwill and intangible assets were amortized using the straight-line method over periods ranging from three to 20 years.
The Company offers standard warranty terms on our product sales of between one and three years. A provision for estimated warranty costs is recorded at the time of sale and periodically adjusted to reflect actual experience. The short-term warranty provision is included in accounts payable and accrued expenses. The long-term warranty provision covers estimated warranty cost for the second and third years of customer use and future expected costs of testing and replacement of radio meter module batteries and fixed network equipment. Warranty expense was $5.3 million in 2002, $4.4 million in 2001, and $3.8 million in 2000.
The warranty provision and a summary of the account activity for the years ended December 31, 2002 and 2001 is as follows:
The Company is subject to various legal proceedings and claims of which the outcomes are subject to significant uncertainty. An estimated loss from a contingency is accrued by a charge to income if it is probable that an asset has been impaired or a liability has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. The Company evaluates, among other factors, the degree of probability of an unfavorable outcome and the ability to make a reasonable estimate of the amount of loss. Changes in these factors could materially impact the Company’s financial position or its results of operations.
We account for income taxes using the asset and liability method. Under this method, deferred income taxes are recorded for the temporary differences between the financial reporting basis and tax basis of our assets and liabilities. These deferred taxes are measured using the provisions of currently enacted tax laws. The Company establishes a valuation allowance when it is likely that we will not generate sufficient taxable income to allow the realization of the deferred tax asset.
Our consolidated financial statements are prepared in U.S. dollars. Assets and liabilities of foreign subsidiaries are denominated in foreign currencies and are translated to U.S. dollars at the exchange rates in affect on the balance sheet date. Revenues, costs of revenues and expenses for these subsidiaries are translated using a weighted average rate for the relevant reporting period. Translation adjustments resulting from this process are a component of comprehensive income in shareholders’ equity and are reflected net of tax.
Sales consist of hardware, software license fees, custom software development, field and project management services, and engineering, consulting and installation services. Service revenues include post-sale maintenance support and outsourcing services. Outsourcing services encompass installation, operation and maintenance of meter reading systems to provide meter information to a customer for billing and management purposes. Outsourcing services can be provided for systems we own as well as those owned by our customers.
In the fourth quarter of 2000, we implemented SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 101, as amended, Revenue Recognition in Financial Statements (SAB No. 101), which provides the SEC staff’s views in applying generally accepted accounting principles to selected revenue recognition issues. As a result, effective January 1, 2000, we changed our revenue recognition for certain transactions related to customer acceptance, F.O.B. destination shipments, and outsourcing contracts under which the Company retains title to the related equipment. The implementation was accounted for as a cumulative change in accounting principle in 2000.
Deferred revenue is recorded for products or services that have been paid for by a customer but have not yet been provided. Unbilled receivables are recorded when revenues are recognized upon product shipment or service delivery and invoicing occurs at a later date.
The carrying amounts for cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments, and accounts receivable approximate fair value. The fair market value for long-term debt is based on quoted market rates or prices where available.
Basic earnings per share (EPS) is calculated using net income divided by the weighted average common shares outstanding during the year. Diluted EPS is similar to Basic EPS except that the weighted average common shares outstanding are increased to include the number of additional common shares that would have been outstanding if dilutive options had been exercised and dilutive convertible subordinated notes had been converted. Diluted EPS assumes that common shares were issued upon the exercise of stock options for which
the market price exceeded the exercise price, less shares that could have been repurchased with the related proceeds (treasury stock method). It also assumes that any dilutive convertible subordinated notes outstanding at the beginning of each year were converted, with related interest adjusted accordingly (if converted method).
SFAS No. 133, Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, as amended, establishes accounting and reporting standards for derivative instruments, including certain derivative instruments embedded in other contracts and for hedging activities. The application of SFAS No. 133 does not have a significant impact on our financial statements.
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. requires us to make estimates and assumptions. These estimates and assumptions affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Because of various factors affecting future costs and operations, actual results could differ from estimates.
The Company currently derives the majority of revenues from sales of products and services to utilities. As a result, operations are subject to the same regulatory, political and economic risks that affect that industry. One customer made up 12% of total revenues in 2002 and 15% in 2001. There were no customers who accounted for more than 10% of total Company revenues in 2000. Additionally, certain affiliates in which the Company has invested in are development stage enterprises that are subject to risks related to obtaining sufficient capital or financing, developing a viable product and obtaining sufficient customer demand.
SFAS No. 123, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation allows companies to either expense the estimated fair value of stock options or to continue to follow the intrinsic value method set forth in Accounting Principles Board Opinion 25, Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees (APB 25), but disclose the pro forma effects on net income (loss) had the fair value of the options been expensed. The Company has elected to continue to apply APB 25 in accounting for our stock option incentive plans and disclose the pro forma effects of applying the fair value provisions of SFAS No. 123.
Had the compensation cost for our stock-based compensation plans been determined based on the fair value at the grant dates for awards under those plans consistent with the method prescribed in SFAS No. 123, our net income and earnings per share would have been reduced to the pro forma amounts indicated below:
Deduct: Total fair value of stock-based compensation
expense, net of related tax effect
The weighted average fair value of options granted was $17.45, $8.05, and $7.37 during 2002, 2001 and 2000, respectively. The fair value of each option granted is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model using the following assumptions:
Certain amounts in the 2001 and 2000 financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the 2002 presentation.
In June 2001, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued SFAS No. 143, Accounting for Obligations Associated with the Retirement of Long-Lived Assets. The provisions of SFAS No. 143 address accounting and reporting for obligations associated with the retirement of tangible long-lived assets. This statement is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after June 15, 2002. The adoption of SFAS No. 143 has not had a significant impact on the financial position or results of operations of the Company.
In November 2002, the FASB’s Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF) reached a consensus on EITF Issue No. 00-21, Revenue Arrangements with Multiple Deliverables. This Issue addresses certain aspects of the accounting by a company for arrangements under which it will perform multiple revenue-generating activities. In
applying this Issue, generally, separate contracts with the same customer that are entered into at or near the same time are presumed to have been negotiated as a package and should, therefore, be evaluated as a single contractual arrangement. This Issue also addresses how contract consideration should be measured and allocated to the separate deliverables in the arrangement. The application of this Issue could impact the timing of revenue recognition when a contractual arrangement combines installation and hardware. This Issue is applicable to revenue arrangements entered into beginning in 2004. We are in the process evaluating the impact of the Issue.
Short-term investments, which are classified as available-for-sale, consist of U.S. government and agency paper, money market funds, repurchase agreements, master notes, and certificates of deposits. During the year ended December 31, 2002, we liquidated our short-term investments, and realized a gain of $27,000. Cost was determined using the specific identification method in computing the realized gain/(loss) in 2002. There were no significant realized gains or losses on short-term investments for the years ended December 31, 2001 and 2000. Information related to such investments at December 31, 2001 is as follows:
Purchases of short-term investments were $26.9 million and $30.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2002 and 2001, respectively. Proceeds from the sale or maturity of investment securities for the years ended December 31, 2002 and 2001 were $49.0 million and $8.2 million, respectively. There were no purchases or sales of short-term investment securities in the year ended December 31, 2000. Interest income earned on short-term investments was $486,000 and $658,000 for the years ended December 31, 2002 and 2001, respectively.
Note 3: Earnings Per Share and Capital Structure
Interest on convertible debt, net of income taxes
Adjusted net income available to common shareholders, assuming conversion
We have granted options to purchase shares of our common stock to directors, employees and other key personnel at fair market value on the date of grant. The average price of Itron common stock was $24.12 in 2002 compared with $17.09 in 2001 and $6.06 in 2000.
The dilutive effect of options is calculated using the treasury stock method. Under this method, earnings per share is computed as if the options were exercised at the beginning of the period (or at time of issuance, if later) and as if the funds obtained thereby were used to purchase common stock at the average market price during the period. Weighted average common shares outstanding, assuming dilution, include the incremental shares that would be issued upon the assumed exercise of stock options. At December 31, 2002, 2001 and 2000, we had options outstanding of 3.5 million, 3.4 million and 3.2 million, respectively, at average option exercise prices of $11.54, $9.67 and $9.91, respectively. For the year ended December 31, 2002, approximately 1.8 million of our stock options were excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share because they were anti-dilutive. These options could be dilutive in future periods. For the same period in 2001 and 2000, approximately 1.8 million and 3.0 million of our stock options were excluded from the calculation, respectively.
The dilutive effect of our convertible subordinated notes is calculated using the if converted method. Under this method, the after-tax amount of interest expense related to the convertible debt is added back to net income. In 2000, 2001 and for a portion of 2002, we had subordinated convertible debt outstanding with conversion prices of $9.65, representing 1.5 million shares, and $23.70, representing an additional 1.6 million shares. During April and May of 2002, we exercised our option to redeem our subordinated convertible debt. All holders of the notes chose to convert their notes into common stock as opposed to redeem them. In both 2001 and 2002 periods, certain portions of the convertible debt shares were excluded from the earnings per share calculation, as they
were anti-dilutive. For the year ended December 31, 2000, all convertible debt shares were excluded from the earnings per share calculation, as they were anti-dilutive.
In May 1998, our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to 1.0 million shares of our common stock. Through the year ended December 31, 2000, we had repurchased 107,000 shares at an average price of $14.53. During the years ended December 31, 2001 and 2002, we repurchased 85,100 shares at an average price of $22.42, and the remaining 807,900 shares at an average price of $15.54, respectively.
In November 2002, our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to 1.0 million shares of our common stock. No shares have been repurchased under the new repurchase authorization.
In December 2002, we amended and restated our Articles of Incorporation to authorize 10 million shares of preferred common stock with no par value. The amendment brings the number of authorized shares to 85 million. In the event of a liquidation, dissolution, or winding up of the affairs of the corporation, whether voluntary or involuntary, the holders of the preferred stock at the time outstanding shall be entitled to be paid the preferential amount per share to be determined by the Board of Directors prior to any payment to holders of common stock. Shares of preferred stock may be convertible into common stock based on terms, conditions, rates and subject to such adjustments set by the Board of Directors. There was no preferred stock issued or outstanding at December 31, 2002, 2001 or 2000.
Note 4: Certain Balance Sheet Components
Trade (net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $1,291 and $1,427)
Total manufacturing inventories
Equipment used in outsourcing
Buildings, furniture and improvements
Depreciation expense was $7.8 million, $8.1 million and $10.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2002, 2001 and 2000, respectively.
Note 5: Business Combinations
Linesoft: In March 2002, the Company acquired LineSoft Corporation (LineSoft), a leading provider of engineering design software applications and consulting services for optimizing the construction or rebuild of utility transmission and distribution systems. The purchase price was $43.5 million, distributed as $20.9 million in cash and 848,870 shares of common stock valued at $25.68 per share, plus acquisition expenses of $1.6 million. A working capital adjustment decreased the purchase price by $784,000. The value of the common shares issued was determined based on the average market price of the Company’s common shares over the twenty-day period prior to the fifth trading day prior to the close of the acquisition. In addition, the Company is required to pay additional amounts to certain LineSoft shareholders of up to $13.5 million in the event that certain defined revenue targets in 2002, 2003 and/or 2004 are exceeded. The 2002 revenues did not warrant an earnout payment. Any earnout payments will be paid half in cash and half in Company common stock. If an earnout payment is required, the purchase price will be increased by the fair value of the payment.
The Company assumed a pre-existing loan in the amount of $2.0 million to the former Chief Executive Officer of LineSoft by renewing and replacing it with a new non-recourse promissory note, secured with the Company’s common stock, in the same amount. The replacement note matures May 11, 2003, and bears interest at an annual rate of 6.0%. As of December 31, 2002, the loan balance was $473,000.
An independent valuation was performed to identify and value the acquired intangible assets. The assets primarily consist of core-developed technology and customer contracts. The Company is amortizing the acquired intangibles over the lives of the estimated discounted cash flows assumed in the valuation models. In addition to the amortizable intangible assets identified, in-process research and development (IPR&D) was also identified. A fair value of $7.2 million attributed to IPR&D was determined utilizing the income approach, which discounts expected future cash flows from projects under development to their net present value. Each project was analyzed to determine the technological innovations included, the utilization of core technology, the complexity, cost and time to complete development, any alternative future use or current technological feasibility, and the stage of completion. Future cash flows were estimated taking into account the expected life cycles of the product and the underlying technology, relevant market sizes and industry trends. A discount rate was determined based on an assessment of the weighted average cost of capital of LineSoft, a weighted average return on assets, the internal rate of return of the investment in the acquisition of LineSoft, and venture capital rates of return. The discount rate used in the valuation of all IPR&D projects was 25 percent. The Company expensed the IPR&D in 2002 and is amortizing the core-developed technology and customer contracts over weighted average useful lives of 29 and 30 months, respectively. Goodwill will be assessed for impairment on an annual basis, or upon a significant event during a year, in accordance with SFAS 142, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets.
Regional Economic Research: In October 2002, the Company acquired Regional Economic Research, Inc. (RER), a California based company specializing in energy consulting, analysis and forecasting services and software. The purchase price of $14.3 million was $13.9 million paid in cash, plus acquisition expenses of $428,500. The Company is required to pay additional amounts to certain RER shareholders of up to $4.0 million if certain defined revenue targets in 2003 and 2004 are exceeded. The form of any earnout payments, payable in cash and/or Company common stock, will be based solely upon Company discretion. If an earnout payment is required, the purchase price will be increased by the fair value of the disbursement.
An independent valuation was performed to identify and value the acquired intangible assets. The assets primarily consist of core-developed technology and software license renewal contracts. The fair values of the acquired intangible assets were determined utilizing the income approach based on projected revenues. The Company is amortizing the acquired intangibles over the lives of the estimated discounted cash flows assumed in the valuation models. Amortization periods for the core-developed technology and software license renewal contracts are 49 and 45 months, respectively. Goodwill will be assessed for impairment on an annual basis, or upon a significant event during a year, in accordance with SFAS 142, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets.
eMobile Data: Also in October 2002, the Company acquired eMobile Data Corporation (eMobile), a British Columbia, Canada based company that provides wireless, web-based workforce management solutions for the utility industry. The purchase price of $9.4 million consisted of $6.4 million of cash, $2.5 million of non-cash consideration, and $487,800 of acquisition expenses. A working capital adjustment decreased the purchase price by $28,500. During the year ended December 31, 2001, we loaned $2.0 million in the form of a convertible note to eMobile which, with accrued and unpaid interest, was considered part of the purchase price in 2002.
An independent valuation was performed to identify and value the acquired intangible assets. The significant asset identified related to core-developed technology. The fair values of the acquired intangible assets were determined utilizing the income approach based on projected revenues. The Company is amortizing the acquired intangibles over the lives of the estimated discounted cash flows assumed in the valuation models. The amortization period for the core-developed technology is 30 months. Goodwill will be assessed for impairment on an annual basis, or upon a significant event during a year, in accordance with SFAS 142, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets.
The following is a summary of the Company’s 2002 acquisitions, the respective purchase price and the allocation of the purchase price based on the foreign currency exchange rate and estimated fair values at the date of acquisition, and the weighted average useful lives of the identified intangible assets. The estimated fair values are preliminary and are subject to future adjustments.
Wtd Ave
Life (mos)
Intangible assets—amortizable:
Customer/software contracts
The goodwill related to the eMobile acquisition was fully deductible for tax purposes, while the goodwill related to LineSoft and RER is not deductible as the transactions were consummated through tax-free mergers. Goodwill and intangible assets were allocated to our defined reporting units based on the acquired entities percentage of forecasted revenue contributed to each reporting unit. The allocation is as follows:
Water and public power
The following pro forma results are based on the individual historical results of Itron, Inc. and LineSoft (prior to acquisition on March 12, 2002) with adjustments to give effect to the combined operations. The adjustments are related to amortization of acquired identified intangible assets, reduction of depreciation expense resulting from adjustments to the value of acquired fixed assets, elimination of interest expense on a line of credit paid in full, and the change in tax provision. The pro forma results are presented solely as unaudited supplemental information and do not necessarily represent what the combined results of operations or financial position would actually have been had the transaction in fact occurred at an earlier date, nor are they representa