Document:

ex10-1_288677.htm

EXHIBIT 10.1

 

 

REVISED EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

This Revised Employment Agreement (the “Agreement”) is made between Global Telecom & Technology, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”), and Michael Bauer (the “Executive”), is entered into as of June 27, 2012 and shall become effective immediately upon signature and has already been approved by the Compensation Committee of the Company’s Board of Directors.  This Agreement amends and replaces a prior Employment Term Sheet between the Company and the Executive entered into as of January 3, 2012 except that the Executive’s employment remains as having a January 14, 2008 start date (“Effective Date”).

	
  

	
1.

	
Employment; Scheduled Term. Subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, Company agrees to employ Executive, and Executive accepts employment and agrees to be employed by Company during the time period commencing on the Effective Date and ending on the termination of this Agreement as provided in Section 7 below. The obligations of Executive set forth in the Executive Assignment of Inventions and Confidentiality Agreement referred to in Section 6 below shall survive the Scheduled Term and shall survive the termination of Executive’s employment, regardless of the cause of such termination. Executive hereby represents and warrants to Company that Executive is free to enter into and fully perform this Agreement and the agreements referred to herein without breach or violation of any agreement or contract to which Executive is a party or by which Executive is bound.

	
  

	
2.

	
Duties. Executive shall serve as Chief Financial Officer of Company with such duties and responsibilities as may from time to time be assigned to Executive by the Chief Executive Officer and the Board of Directors of Company (the “Board”), commensurate with and customarily assigned to Executive’s title and position described in this sentence. The duties and services to be performed by Executive under this Agreement are collectively referred to herein as the “Services”. Executive shall report directly to the Chief Executive Officer. Executive agrees that to the best of his ability and experience he shall at all times conscientiously perform all of the duties and obligations assigned to him under the terms of this Agreement. At Company’s option, it will be entitled to reasonable use of Executive’s name in promotional, advertising and other materials used in the ordinary course of its business without additional compensation unless prohibited by law. Executive initially shall report to the offices located in McLean, Virginia; provided that Executive’s duties will include reasonable travel, including but not limited to travel to offices of Company, its subsidiaries and affiliates and current and prospective customers as is reasonably necessary and appropriate to the performance of Executive’s duties hereunder. Executive will comply with and be bound by Company’s operating policies, procedures, and practices from time to time in effect during Executive’s employment.

	
  

	
3.

	
Exclusive Service. During the term of employment, Executive will not perform services for any other entity if such service would be in conflict with the Company’s business interests. Executive will apply his skill and experience to the performance of his duties and advancing Company’s interests in accordance with Executive’s experience and skills. Accordingly, Executive shall not engage in any outside work, business, consulting activity or render any commercial or professional services, directly or indirectly, for or on behalf of himself or any other person or organization, whether for compensation or otherwise, if such services would be in conflict with the Company’s business interests, except with the prior written approval of Company and Executive shall otherwise do nothing inconsistent with the performance of Executive’s duties hereunder.

 

	
  

	
4.

	
Non-Competition and Other Covenants

 

4.1 Non-Competition Agreement. Beginning the Effective Date and continuing for so long thereafter as Executive is employed by Company or a subsidiary or affiliate of Company, and for one (1) year following the termination of Executive’s employment with Company (collectively, the “Restricted Period”), Executive will not, directly or indirectly, individually or as

 

 

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an employee, partner, officer, director or shareholder (except to the extent permitted in Section 3 above) or in any other capacity whatsoever of or for any person, firm, partnership, company or corporation other than Company or its subsidiaries:

(a) Own, manage, operate, sell, control or participate in the ownership, management, operation, sales or control of or be connected in any manner with any business engaged, in the geographical areas referred to in Section 4.2 below, in the design, research, development, marketing, sale, or licensing of managed data network services that are substantially similar to or competitive with the business of Company and any of its affiliates; or

(b) Recruit, attempt to hire, solicit, or assist others in recruiting or hiring, in or with respect to the geographical areas referred to in Section 4.2 below, any person who is an employee of Company or any of its subsidiaries or induce or attempt to induce any such employee to terminate his employment with Company or any of its subsidiaries.

 

 

4.2 Geographical Areas. The geographical areas in which the restrictions provided for in this Section 4 apply include all cities, counties and states of the United States, and all other countries in which Company (or any of its subsidiaries) are conducting business or are contemplating conducting business at the time. Executive acknowledges that the scope and period of restrictions and the geographical area to which the restrictions imposed in this Section 4 applies are fair and reasonable and are reasonably required for the protection of Company and that this Agreement accurately describes the business to which the restrictions are intended to apply. Executive acknowledges that the covenants set forth in this Section 4 have been granted in consideration for his employment by the Company.

4.3 Non-Solicitation of Customers. In addition to, and not in limitation of, the non-competition covenants of Executive set forth above in this Section 4, Executive agrees with Company that, for the Restricted Period, Executive will not, either for Executive or for any other person or entity, directly or indirectly (other than for Company and any of its subsidiaries or affiliates), solicit business from, or attempt to sell, license or provide the same or similar products or services as are then provided, or are then contemplated of being provided, by Company or any subsidiary or affiliate of Company to any customer of Company.

4.4 Non-Solicitation of Executives or Consultants In addition to, and not in limitation of, the non-competition covenants of Executive set forth above in this Section 4, Executive agrees with Company that, for the Restricted Period, Executive will not, either for Executive or for any other person or entity, directly or indirectly, solicit, induce or attempt to induce any employee, consultant or contractor of Company or any affiliate of Company, to terminate his or her employment or his, her or its services with, Company or any subsidiary or affiliate of Company or to take employment with another party.

4.5 Amendment to Retain Enforceability. It is the intent of the parties that the provisions of this Section 4 will be enforced to the fullest extent permissible under applicable law. If any particular provision or portion of this Section is adjudicated to be invalid or unenforceable, this Agreement will be deemed amended to revise that provision or portion to the minimum extent necessary to render it enforceable. Such amendment will apply only with respect to the operation of this paragraph in the particular jurisdiction in which such adjudication was made.

4.6 Injunctive Relief. Executive acknowledges that any breach of the covenants of this Section 4 will result in immediate and irreparable injury to Company and, accordingly, consents that the Company shall have the right to seek injunctive relief and such other equitable remedies for the benefit of Company as may be appropriate in the event such a breach occurs or is threatened. The foregoing remedies will be in addition to all other legal remedies to which Company may be entitled hereunder, including, without limitation, monetary damages.

 

 

     

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5.

	
Compensation and Benefits

5.1 Salary . During the term of this Agreement, Company shall pay Executive a salary of $200,000 per annum. Executive’s salary shall be payable as earned at Company’s customary payroll periods in accordance with Company’s customary payroll practices. Executive’s salary shall be subject to review and adjustment in accordance with Company’ customary practices concerning salary review for similarly situated employees of Company or its subsidiaries.

5.2 Benefits Executive will be eligible to participate in Company’s employee benefit plans of general application as they may exist from time to time, including without limitation those plans covering pension and profit sharing, executive bonuses, stock purchases, stock options, and those plans covering life, health, and dental insurance in accordance with the rules established for individual participation in any such plan and applicable law. Executive will receive such other benefits, including vacation, holidays and sick leave, as Company generally provides to its employees holding similar positions as that of Executive as well as any future benefits or changes to existing benefits offered to similarly situated employees of the Company or its subsidiaries, regardless of Executives service tenure, including but not limited to enhanced vesting terms or conditions for Equity-Based Grants, expense allowances, deferred compensation plans. Executive has received a summary of Company’s standard employee benefits policies in effect as of the date hereof. The Company reserves the right to change or otherwise modify, in its sole discretion, the benefits offered herein to conform to the Company’s general policies as may be changed from time to time during the term of this Agreement.

5.3 Bonus Executive will be eligible to earn up to a $70,000 cash bonus yearly during his employment with Company. Executive’s Bonus eligibility for subsequent years is intended to reflect a comparable ratio of Bonus eligibility to Salary.  However, Executive’s Bonus eligibility will be subject to review and adjustment in accordance with Company’s customary practices concerning compensation review for similarly situated employees of the Company or its subsidiaries.  All bonus payments would be awarded subject to the sole discretion of the Board, based upon the Board’s evaluation of the performance of Executive and the Company.

5.4 Equity-Based Grants Executive has been granted 74,000 shares of restricted stock of Company under Company’s Employee, Director & Consultant Stock Plan (the “Plan” ). Such shares of restricted stock shall vest in four (4) equal amounts over a four (4) year period with the first 25% of restricted stock granted vesting on the first anniversary of the effective date of such grant, all as more particularly set forth in the restricted stock agreement customarily used by the Company pursuant to the Plan. Executive has also been granted 62,000 options. Such options shall vest in four (4) equal amounts over a four (4) year period with the first 25% of granted options vesting on the first anniversary of the effective date of such grant, all as more particularly set forth in the stock option agreement customarily used by the Company pursuant to the Plan. With respect specifically to the preceding equity awards identified in this Section 5.4, Executive and Company agree that: (i) in the event that Executive’s employment with Company is terminated by Company without Cause (as defined herein), Executive shall be entitled to additional vesting of a pro rata portion (based upon his service through the effective date of termination) of such equity awards determined as if vesting was on a monthly basis over a 12 month period; or (ii) in the event that the Company undergoes a Corporate Transaction (as defined in the Plan) and Executive’s employment with Company is terminated by Company without Cause as a result of such Corporate Transaction, Executive shall be entitled to additional vesting of such equity awards as if the next applicable vesting date occurred as of the effective date of such termination. In addition to the foregoing equity awards, Executive may be eligible to receive additional restricted stock, option, or other equity-based grants in such amounts, at such times and with such vesting schedules and other terms as are determined from time to time by the Board.

All existing equity grants, including restricted stock, stock options, and all other equity grants of any type, will immediately vest upon the “Change of Control” of the Company.  For purposes of this Agreement, "Change of Control" shall mean: (i) The Company is merged, consolidated or

 

 

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reorganized into or with another corporation or other legal person (an “Acquirer”) and, as a result of such merger, consolidation or reorganization, less than fifty percent (50%) of the outstanding voting securities entitled to vote generally in the election of directors of the surviving, resulting or acquiring corporation or other legal person are owned, directly or indirectly, in the aggregate by the stockholders of the Company immediately prior to such merger, consolidation or reorganization, other than by the Acquirer or any corporation or other legal person controlling, controlled by or under common control with the Acquirer; (ii) the Company sells all or substantially all of its business and/or assets to an Acquirer, of which less than fifty percent (50%) of the outstanding voting securities entitled to vote generally in the election of directors are owned, directly or indirectly, in the aggregate by the stockholders of the Company immediately prior to such sale, other than by any corporation or other legal person controlling, controlled by or under common control with the Acquirer; or (iii) any other transaction or series of related transactions having an economic effect substantially equivalent to any of the foregoing in subsections (i) or (ii) immediately above.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, the following types of transactions shall not be deemed to be a Change of Control: (a) any transaction entered into among or between the Company and stockholders of the Company if immediately prior to such a transaction, the acquiring stockholders held thirty percent (30%) of the outstanding voting securities; or (b) any acquisition by the Company or any of its subsidiaries.

5.5 Expenses. Company will reimburse Executive for all reasonable and necessary expenses incurred by Executive in connection with Company’s business are in accordance with Company’s applicable policy and are properly documented and accounted for in accordance with the requirements of the Internal Revenue Service.

	
  

	
6.

	
Proprietary Rights. Executive hereby agrees to execute an Executive Invention Assignment and Confidentiality Agreement with Company in substantially the form attached hereto as Exhibit A .

     

	
  

	
7.

	
Termination

7.1 Upon Death. The Executive’s employment hereunder shall terminate automatically upon the death of the Executive. The Company shall pay to the Executive’s beneficiaries or estate, as appropriate, the compensation to which he is entitled pursuant to Section 5.1 through the end of the month in which death occurs.

7.2 Upon Disability. If, in the opinion of a medical doctor specializing in the appropriate medical specialty, the Executive is prevented from properly performing his duties hereunder by reason of any physical or mental incapacity for a period of more than 180 days in the aggregate in any twelve month period, then, to the extent permitted by law, the Executive’s employment hereunder shall terminate and Executive shall receive all compensation due him pursuant to Section 5.1 through the date of termination, as well as the continuation of health benefits for a period of twelve (12) months after the termination of his employment. Nothing in this Section 7.2 shall affect the Executive’s rights under any Company sponsored disability plan in which he is a participant.

7.3 By Company for Cause. Company may terminate the Executive’s employment hereunder for Cause (as defined below) at any time by giving written notice to the Executive. The Company shall pay Executive the compensation to which he is entitled pursuant to Section 5.1 through the end of the day of such termination. For purposes of this Agreement, the Company shall have “Cause” to terminate the Executive’s employment during the term of this Agreement only if: (i) the Executive materially breaches any provision of this Agreement after written notice identifying the substance of the material breach; (ii) Executive fails or refuses to comply with any lawful direction or instruction of Company’s Board of Directors, which failure or refusal is not timely cured, (iii) the Executive commits an act of fraud, embezzlement, misappropriation of funds, or dishonesty, (iv) the Executive commits a breach of his fiduciary duty based on a good faith determination by the Board and after reasonable opportunity to cure if such breach is curable, (v) the Executive is

 

 

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grossly negligent or engages in willful misconduct in the performance of his duties hereunder, and fails to remedy such breach within ten (10) days of receiving written notice thereof from the Board, provided, however, that no act, or failure to act, by the Executive shall be considered “grossly negligent” or an act of “willful misconduct” unless committed without good faith and without a reasonable belief that the act or omission was in or not opposed to the Company’s best interest; (vi) the Executive is convicted of a felony or a crime of moral turpitude; or (vi) Executive has a drug or alcohol dependency.

7.4 By Company without Cause; By Executive for Good Reason. The Company may terminate the Executive’s employment hereunder at any time, without any Cause, and Executive may resign for Good Reason (as hereinafter defined), without any liability other than to pay to the Executive (i) his base salary through the effective date of termination; and (ii) the continuation of base salary and health benefits for a period of twelve (12) months after the termination of his employment.

7.5 Definition of Good Reason. For purposes hereof, “Good Reason” shall mean a termination by the Executive within ninety (90) days following (i) the relocation of the primary office of the Executive more than ten (10) miles from McLean, Virginia, without the consent of Executive, or (ii) a material change in the Executive’s duties such that he is no longer the Chief Financial Officer of the Company; (iii) the assignment to the Executive of duties that are inconsistent with his position or that materially alter his ability to function as Chief Financial Officer; or (iv) a reduction in the Executive’s total base compensation as set forth in Sections 5.1, 5.2, 5.3 and 5.4.

7.6 By Executive without Cause. The Executive may terminate his employment hereunder with thirty (30) days notice at any time.

7.7 Surrender of Records and Property. Upon termination of his employment with Company for any reason, the Executive shall deliver promptly to Company all records, manuals, books, blank forms, documents, letters, memoranda, notes, notebooks, reports, data, tables, calculations or copies thereof, whether in tangible or electronic format or media, which are the property of Company or which relate in any way to the business, products, practices or techniques of Company, and all other property, trade secrets and confidential information of Company, including, but not limited to, all documents or electronic records which in whole or in part contain any trade secrets or confidential information of Company, which in any of these cases are in his possession or under his control.

7.8 Survival. Notwithstanding any termination of the Executive’s employment hereunder, and unless specifically provided therein, the Executive shall remain bound by the provisions of this Agreement which specifically relate to periods, activities or obligations upon or subsequent to the termination of the Executive’s employment. Further, Company’s obligation to pay severance upon Company’s termination of the Executive’s employment without cause, or termination by Executive for Good Reason, shall survive termination of this Agreement.

 

 

	
  

	
8.

	
Miscellaneous

8.1 Severability. If any provision of this Agreement shall be found by any arbitrator or court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid or unenforceable, then the parties hereby waive such provision to the extent that it is found to be invalid or unenforceable and to the extent that to do so would not deprive one of the parties of the substantial benefit of its bargain. Such provision shall, to the extent allowable by law and the preceding sentence, be modified by such arbitrator or court so that it becomes enforceable and, as modified, shall be enforced as any other provision hereof, all the other provisions continuing in full force and effect.

8.2 Remedies. Company and Executive acknowledge that the service to be provided by Executive is of a special, unique, unusual, extraordinary and intellectual character, which gives it peculiar value the loss of which cannot be reasonably or adequately compensated in damages in an action at law. Accordingly, Executive and Company hereby consent and agree that for any

 

 

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breach or violation by Executive of any of the provisions of this Agreement including, without limitation, Section 3 and 4, a restraining order and/or injunction may be sought against either of the parties, in addition to any other rights and remedies the parties may have, at law or equity, including without limitation the recovery of money damages.

8.3 No Waiver. The failure by either party at any time to require performance or compliance by the other of any of its obligations or agreements shall in no way affect the right to require such performance or compliance at any time thereafter. The waiver by either party of a breach of any provision hereof shall not be taken or held to be a waiver of any preceding or succeeding breach of such provision or as a waiver of the provision itself. No waiver of any kind shall be effective or binding, unless it is in writing and is signed by the party against whom such waiver is sought to be enforced.

8.4 Assignment. This Agreement and all rights hereunder are personal to Executive and may not be transferred or assigned by Executive at any time. Company may assign its rights, together with its obligations hereunder, to any subsidiary, affiliate or successor of Company, or in connection with any sale, transfer or other disposition of all or substantially all the business and assets of Company or any of their respective subsidiaries or affiliates, whether by sale of stock, sale of assets, merger, consolidation or otherwise; provided, that any such assignee assumes Company’s obligations hereunder. This Agreement shall be binding upon, and inure to the benefit of, the persons or entities who are permitted, by the terms of this Agreement, to be successors, assigns and personal representatives of the respective parties hereto.

8.5 Withholding. All sums payable to Executive hereunder shall be reduced by all federal, state, local and other withholding and similar taxes and payments required by applicable law to be withheld by Company.

8.6 Entire Agreement. This Agreement (and the exhibit(s) hereto) constitutes the entire and only agreement and understanding between the parties relating to employment of Executive with Company and this Agreement supersedes and cancels any and all previous contracts, arrangements or understandings with respect to Executive’s employment; except that the Executive Invention Assignment and Confidentiality Agreement shall remain as an independent contract and shall remain in full force and effect according to its terms.

8.7 Amendment. This Agreement may be amended, modified, superseded, cancelled, renewed or extended only by an agreement in writing executed by both parties hereto.

8.8 Notices. All notices and other communications required or permitted under this Agreement shall be in writing and hand delivered, sent by telecopier, sent by certified first class mail, postage pre-paid, or sent by nationally recognized express courier service. Such notices and other communications shall be effective upon receipt if hand delivered or sent by telecopier, five (5) days after mailing if sent by mail, and one (l) day after dispatch if sent by express courier, to the following addresses, or such other addresses as any party shall notify the other parties:

	  	  	  
	  	
If to Company:

	
Global Telecom & Technology, Inc.

	  	  	
8484 Westpark Drive, Suite720

	  	  	
McLean, VA 22102

	  	  	
Attn: Chris McKee, General Counsel

	  	  	  
	  	
If to Executive:

	
Michael Bauer

1628 Cecile Street

McLean, VA  22101

 

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8.9 Binding Nature. This Agreement shall be binding upon, and inure to the benefit of, the successors and personal representatives of the respective parties hereto.

8.10 Headings. The headings contained in this Agreement are for reference purposes only and shall in no way affect the meaning or interpretation of this Agreement. In this Agreement, the singular includes the plural, the plural included the singular, the masculine gender includes both male and female reference, and the word “or” is used in the inclusive sense.

8.11 Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in two or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original but all of which, taken together, constitute one and the same agreement.

8.12 Governing Law . This Agreement and the rights and obligations of the parties hereto shall be construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware, without giving effect to the principles of conflict of laws.

	
  

	
9.

	
Indemnification

9.1 Corporate Acts:  In his/her capacity as a director, manager, officer, or employee of the Company or serving or having served any other entity as a director, manager, officer, or the Executive at the Company’s request, the Executive shall be indemnified and held harmless by the Company to the fullest extent allowed by law, the Company’s charter and by-laws, from and against any and all losses, claims, damages, liabilities, expenses (including legal fees and expenses), judgments, fines, settlements and other amounts arising from any and all claims, demands, actions, suits or proceedings, civil, criminal, administrative or investigative, in which the Executive may be involved, or threatened to be involved, as a party or otherwise by reason of the Executive’s status, which relate to or arise out of the Company, their assets, business or affairs. The Company shall advance all expenses incurred by the Executive in connection with the investigation, defense, settlement or appeal of any civil or criminal action or proceeding referenced in this Section 9, including but not necessarily limited to legal counsel, expert witnesses or other litigation-related expenses.  The Executive shall be entitled to coverage under the Company’s directors and officers liability insurance policy in effect at any time in the future to no lesser extent than any other officers or directors of the Company.  After the Executive is no longer employed by the Company, the Company shall keep in effect the provisions of this Section 9, which provision shall not be amended except as required by applicable law or except to make changes permitted by law that would enlarge the right of indemnification of the Executive.  Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the provisions of this Section 9 shall survive the termination of this Agreement and the termination of the Employment Period for any reason.

9.2 Personal Guarantees:  The Company shall indemnify and hold harmless the Executive for any liability incurred by him/her by reason of his/her execution of any personal guarantee for the Company’s benefit (including but not limited to personal guarantees in connection with office or equipment leases, commercial loans or promissory notes)

9.3 The indemnification provision of this Section 9 shall be in addition to any other liability the Company otherwise may have to the Executive to indemnify him for his conduct in connection with his efforts on the Company’s behalf.

10. Section 409A  The parties intend that any compensation, benefits and other amounts payable or provided to the Executive under this Agreement be paid or  provided in compliance with Section 409A of the Code and all regulations, guidance, and other interpretative authority issued thereunder (collectively, “Section 409A”) such that there will be no adverse tax consequences, interest, or penalties for the Executive under Section 409A as a result of the payments and benefits so paid or provided to him. The parties agree to modify this Agreement, or the timing (but not the amount) of the payment of the severance or other compensation, or both, to the extent necessary to comply with Section 409A. In addition, notwithstanding anything to the

 

 

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contrary contained in any other provision of this Agreement, the payments and benefits to be provided to the Executive under this Agreement shall be subject to the provisions set forth below.

	
  

	
(a)

	
Any payment subject to Section 409A that is triggered by a termination from employment shall be triggered by a “separation from service,” as defined in the regulations issued under Section 409A.

	
  

	
(b)

	
If the Executive is a “specified employee” within the meaning of the Section 409A at the time of the Executive’s “separation from service” within the meaning of Section 409A, then any payment otherwise required to be made to the Executive under this Agreement on account of the Executive’s separation from service, to the extent such payment (after taking in to account all exclusions applicable to such payment under Section 409A) is properly treated as deferred compensation subject to Section 409A, shall not be made until the first business day after (i) the expiration of six months from the date of the Executive’s separation from service, or (ii) if earlier, the date of the Executive’s death (the “Delayed Payment Date”). On the Delayed Payment Date, there shall be paid to the Executive or, if the Executive has died, to the Executive’s estate, in a single cash lump sum, an amount equal to aggregate amount of the payments delayed pursuant to the preceding sentence, plus interest thereon at the Delayed Payment Interest Rate (as defined below) computed from the date on which each such delayed payment otherwise would have been made to the Executive until the Delayed Payment Date. For purposes of the foregoing, the “Delayed Payment Interest Rate” shall mean the national average annual rate of interest payable on jumbo six-month bank certificates of deposit, as quoted in the business section of the most recently published Sunday edition of The New York Times preceding the date as of which Executive is treated as having incurred a separation from service for purposes of Section 409A.

	
  

	
(c)

	
All expenses eligible for reimbursement hereunder that are taxable to the Executive shall be paid to the Executive no earlier than in the seventh month after separation from service and no later than December 31 of the calendar year following the calendar year in which such expenses were incurred. The expenses incurred by the Executive in any calendar year that are eligible for reimbursement under this Agreement shall not affect the expenses incurred by the Executive in any other calendar year that are eligible for reimbursement hereunder. The Executive’s right to receive any reimbursement hereunder shall not be subject to liquidation or exchange for any other benefit.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Company and Executive have executed this Agreement as of the date first above written.

	  	  	  	  	  	  	  	  	  	  
	
“COMPANY”

 

 

	  	  	  	
“Executive”

 

 

	  	  
	  	  	  	  	  	  	  	  	  	  
	  	  	  	  	  	  	  
	  	  	  	  	  	  	  	  	  	  
	
By:

	  	  	  	  	  	
By:

	 Michael Bauer 	  	  
	  	  	  	  	  	  	  	  	  	  

 

 

 

Page 8 of 8exh10-71.htm

Exhibit 10.71

Coronus Energy Corp./JT Cascade 1 - GFID 5618

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA EDISON COMPANY

SYSTEM IMPACT STUDY AGREEMENT

This System Impact Study Agreement (“Agreement”) is between Coronus Energy Corp. (“Applicant”), a Delaware Corporation with principal offices located at Suite 1100, 1200 West 73rd Avenue, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, V6P 6G5, and Southern California Edison Company (“SCE”), a California corporation, with principal offices located at 2244 Walnut Grove Avenue, Rosemead, California 91770, hereinafter each may be referred to as a Party or collectively as the Parties.   This Agreement shall take effect as of ____________________ (“Effective Date”).

	
1.  

	
Purpose for Agreement:  Applicant has notified Southern California Edison Company (“SCE”) of its intention to develop a new power generation facility that will be located on property owned, leased or controlled by Applicant (“Project”).   This Project is expected to interconnect into SCE’s Distribution System, which term is defined in Section 2.   Applicant has stated that the generation will not be sold into the California wholesale energy market and so the Parties have agreed that the interconnection of this Project with SCE’s existing Distribution System shall be treated as subject to SCE’s current rules for interconnection, as such are approved by the California Public Utility Commission (“CPUC”) and which are collectively and commonly referred to as “Rule 21”. Before interconnection can be provided pursuant to Rule 21, a System Impact Study is required in order for SCE to determine the impacts that would result from interconnecting the Project and the adequacy of SCE’s electrical system to accommodate the Project.  In addition, the study results, which will be provided in a study report, are needed by SCE in order to make a preliminary

  

  

  

	 	
determination of the required Interconnection Facilities and Distribution Upgrades and other required modification or additions needed to accommodate the Project under Rule 21, based on the assumptions that are set out in Section 4.  This Agreement is intended to set forth the respective responsibilities of the Parties related to the performance of the System Impact Study, which is the subject matter of this Agreement, and does not substitute for or replace a Facilities Study.   If a Facility Study is determined to be needed, then Applicant will need to separately authorize (and pay for) such a study.

	
2.  

	
Definitions:  All terms with initial capitalization not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings assigned to them in Rule 21.

	
  

	 

	 	
2.1.  

	
Distribution System: Those non-ISO transmission and distribution facilities owned, controlled and operated by SCE that are used to provide Distribution Service under the tariffs.

	 	
2.2.  

	
Distribution System Upgrades: Modifications or additions to the Distribution System for the general benefit of all users of the Distribution System.

	 	
2.3.  

	
Facilities Study: A separate engineering study conducted by SCE (which is outside of the scope of this Agreement) to determine the required modifications to the Distribution System, including the cost and scheduled completion date for such modifications that will be required to provide the requested service pursuant to Rule 21.

	 	
2.4.  

	
System Impact Study: An assessment by SCE of (i) the adequacy of the Distribution System to accommodate a request for service pursuant to Rule 21 (ii) a preliminary determination of the required Interconnection Facilities and Distribution Upgrades and other required modification or additions needed to accommodate the Project and (ii) whether any additional costs may be incurred in order to provide service pursuant to Rule 21.

	
3.  

	
Study Scope and Content:  The Study will consist of a System Impact Study to be performed by SCE as specified below:

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a.  

	
System Impact Study:  The System Impact Study will review and present the following information:

	 	
i.  

	
An assessment of the impacts from interconnection of the Project and the adequacy of the Distribution System to accommodate the Project by

January 15, 2013, such that the Project can be interconnected to the Allegra 12 kV circuit out of Carodean Substation.

	 	
ii.  

	
A general description of the Interconnection Facilities, Distribution System Upgrades, and any other modifications or additions to SCE’s electrical system required to accommodate the Project.  Specific information regarding required facilities and costs will not be provided under this agreement but may be obtained if a separate Facilities Study is authorized by Applicant.

	 	
iii.  

	
Study conditions and assumptions.

	 	
iv.  

	
Short circuit analysis.

	
4.  

	
Assumptions:  The assumptions utilized in performing the Study shall be as follows:

	 	
a.  

	
Applicant is, or will be upon commencement of Rule 21 service, an eligible Customer under Rule 21.

	 	
b.  

	
Applicant will install 2 generating units, having a total operating capacity of 1,500 kW; for a total net output of 1,500 kW from these generating units.

	 	
c.  

	
The maximum generating capacity for this Project is 1,500 kW.

	 	
d.  

	
Any technical data supplied by Applicant is complete and accurate.  (SCE will not be verifying any information or data provided by Applicant as a part of the Study; notwithstanding this, if SCE notices that the technical data provided by Applicant is insufficient to allow SCE to complete a Study, then SCE may suspend the Study

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until SCE determines that the data and information provided by Applicant is of a quality that can be used by SCE in performing the Study.).

	 	
e.  

	
The generating units will be installed by Applicant in order to meet the operating date requested by Applicant in its application for interconnection; however, performance of the Study using this assumption does not commit SCE to interconnect on the requested date.   A target interconnection date shall be established by SCE after the Study are complete, based on permitting requirements, design, land issues, material lead times and other Project specific factors as well as facts related to SCE’s Distribution  System.

	 	
f.  

	
No operating restrictions exist, other than for routine maintenance.

	 	
g.  

	
Other projects with interconnection applications that were submitted prior to Applicant’s Project will be assumed to be in service when performing the Study.

	 	
h.  

	
Potential system enhancements or modifications resulting from such projects, if any, are not assumed and Projects submitted after the date of the Applicant’s Project will not be considered as part of the Study.

	 	
i.  

	
For short circuit analysis, the Project will be assumed to be located at the Applicant’s generating facility.

	 	
j.  

	
This Study will not address the issues that are typically addressed by SCE as a part of a Facilities Study.   If this Study concludes that a Facilities Study is needed as part of the interconnection process, then a separate agreement (and the payment of an additional fee) will be required from the Applicant before SCE performs the Facilities Study.

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5.  

	
Time to Complete Study:  SCE will use due diligence to complete the System Impact Study described herein within one hundred twenty (120) business days following the Effective Date of this Agreement.

	
6.  

	
Additional Time For Completion:  The time periods in Section 5 are estimates based on SCE’s past experience in completing the Study but the actual time required to complete a Study can vary depending on the complexity of the Study and other demands on the SCE personnel that will be performing the Study.  If SCE determines at any time that a Study is unlikely to be completed within the time periods specified in Section 5 of this Agreement, then SCE will update the estimated completion date.

	
7.  

	
Additional Information:  SCE may request additional information from Applicant that is necessary in order for SCE to complete a Study and Applicant shall promptly respond with the requested information.

	
8.  

	
Third Party Effects and Review by Third Parties:  The Study described herein does not include review or analysis by third parties and also does not include a review by SCE of potential impacts of the Project on any third party systems or operations.

	
9.  

	
Results Based on Information Available at Time of Study:  Substantial portions of the technical data and assumptions used to perform the Study, such as system conditions, existing and planned generation, and unit modeling, are likely to be no longer valid at some point in time.  The Study will be performed with the data that is available to SCE at the time SCE begins to perform the Study.   If new data is provided after SCE has begun work on the Study, then this new data may not be reviewed as part of the Study.   Similarly, the Study will be performed based on the tariffs, rules, protocols and procedures that are approved by SCE for use in

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performing Study as of the date when SCE first begins to perform the Study.   SCE shall not be responsible for updating the Study to reflect new information or a change in the information used in the Study, even though the new or changed information may mean the purpose identified in Section 1 is no longer served by the Study unless a new study is authorized by Applicant under Section 10 below.   Further, Applicant acknowledges that the Study will not address the issues that are typically addressed by SCE as a part of a Facilities Study and, if the Study performed under this Agreement concludes that a Facilities Study is required, then a separate agreement will be required, as further described in Section 5 above.

	
10.  

	
New Study at Applicant’s Costs:  In the event that a new Study, or revision or reconsideration of the Study, is required (a) as a result of information received from any entity regarding any potential impact to a party's electrical system, or (b) to reflect new information or changes in information used in performing the Study which require the Study to be updated, then Applicant shall either enter into a separate agreement providing that it shall reimburse SCE for the costs of such new or revised study, or withdraw its application.

	
11.  

	
Payment:  Applicant shall pay the full cost for SCE to perform the Study authorized by this Agreement.   Applicant shall advance to SCE the estimated cost to complete the Study, which is ten thousand dollars ($10,000), upon execution of this Agreement.  SCE shall refund to Applicant, without interest, any amounts received by SCE which exceed the cost of the Study, even if SCE terminates the Study pursuant to Section 12 or 16 of this Agreement.

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12.  

	
Increased Costs: If at any time SCE determines that the Study is expected to cost more than $10,000, SCE shall notify Applicant and provide an estimate of any additional costs. Upon receipt of such notice, Applicant shall either: (i) request that SCE terminate the Study; or (ii) provide a written request to SCE that SCE continue the Study, and agree to pay any additional costs to SCE.  SCE shall be under no obligation to incur costs in excess of the $10,000 for the Study, unless and until it receives notice pursuant to this Section 12 and payment from Applicant of costs expected to be incurred that are in excess of $10,000.

	
13.  

	
Records and Accounts:  SCE shall maintain records and accounts of all costs incurred in performing the Study in sufficient detail to allow verification of all costs incurred, including, but not limited to, labor and associated labor burden costs, materials and supplies, outside services, and administrative and general expenses.  Applicant shall have the right, upon reasonable notice, within a reasonable time at SCE's offices and at its own expense, to audit SCE’s records as necessary and as appropriate in order to verify costs incurred by SCE.  Any audit requested by Applicant shall be completed, and written notice of any audit dispute provided to SCE’s representative, within one hundred eighty (180) calendar days following receipt by Applicant of SCE’s notification of the final Study costs.

	
14.

	
Notice:  All correspondence or notifications concerning this Agreement shall be addressed to the parties as follows:

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If to SCE:

 

	
If to Applicant:

	
Southern California Edison Company

 

	
Coronus Energy Corp.

	
Attention: Manager, Grid Contracts

Administration and Billing

	
Jeff Thachuk, Chairman & CEO

	
2244 Walnut Grove Avenue

 

	
1200 West 73rd Avenue

	
P.O. Box 800

 

	
Suite 1100

	
Rosemead, CA 91770

	
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

V6P 6G5

	
Phone: (626) 302-1212

 

	
Phone: (604) 267-7078

	
FAX: (626) 302-1152

 

	
FAX: (604) 367-7080

	
15.

	
Commission Jurisdiction:  This Agreement is subject to the applicable provisions of SCE’s tariffs, including Rule 21, as filed and authorized by the CPUC.  This Agreement shall at all times be subject to such changes or modifications by the CPUC, as the CPUC may, from time to time, direct in exercise of its jurisdiction.

	
16.

	
Termination Upon Demand:  Applicant may demand that SCE terminate the Study at any time.  Immediately following receipt of written notice of such termination from Applicant, SCE shall terminate the Study as demanded.  In such case, Applicant shall reimburse SCE only for the costs actually incurred, costs irrevocably committed to be incurred for the performance of the terminated Study, and costs incurred in winding down the Study.  If Applicant so requests in its notice of termination, SCE shall submit to Applicant the results of the incomplete Study in a form that provides the Applicant with the results of the analysis performed by SCE before the Study was terminated.

	
17.

	
Signature Clause:  This Agreement shall become effective as of the date set forth above when fully executed by both Parties, provided that the payments specified in

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Section 11 of this Agreement have been received by SCE on or before this date.   Payment to SCE must be sent to SCE (at the address set for on page 1 of this Agreement), ATTN:  Administrative Assistant for Grid Interconnection and Contract Development.   If this Agreement is not signed by Applicant within fifteen (15) calendar days of the Agreement being submitted to Applicant for signature, then SCE’s offer to perform the Study described in this Agreement shall be treated as rejected by Applicant and this Agreement will be of no effect.

	
Southern California Edison Company

 

	
Coronus Energy Corp.

	
By:         Jerome Andrew Brabb

 

	
By:        Jeff Thachuk

	
Name:    Jerome Andrew Brabb

 

	
Name:    Jeff Thachuk

	
Title:  Manager, Grid Interconnections

and Contract Development

	
Title:   Chairman & CEO

	
Date: 12/22/2011

 

	
Date: 02/23/2012

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