EDGAR 10-K Filing

Company CIK: 1361538
Filing Year: 2024
Filename: 1361538_10-K_2024_0001558370-24-001719.json

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ITEM 1. BUSINESS
ITEM 1. BUSINESS
Business Overview
Primoris Services Corporation (“Primoris”, the “Company”, “we”, “us”, or “our”) is one of the leading providers of infrastructure services operating mainly in the United States and Canada. We provide a wide range of construction, maintenance, replacement, fabrication, and engineering services to a diversified base of customers through our two segments: Utilities and Energy. The structure of our reportable segments is generally focused on broad end-user markets for our services.
We have longstanding customer relationships with utility, refining, petrochemical, power, renewable energy, communications, midstream, and engineering companies, and state departments of transportation. We provide our services to a diversified base of customers, under a range of contracting options. A portion of our services are provided under Master Service Agreements (“MSA”), which are generally multi-year agreements. The remainder of our services are generated from contracts for specific construction or installation projects.
Reportable Segments
Through the end of 2022, we segregated our business into three reportable segments: the Utilities segment, the Energy/Renewables segment, and the Pipeline segment. In the first quarter of 2023, we changed our reportable segments in connection with the realignment of our internal organization and management structure. The segment changes reflect the focus of our Chief Operating Decision Maker (“CODM”) on the range of services we provide to our end user markets. Our CODM regularly reviews our operating and financial performance based on these new segments.
The current reportable segments include the Utilities segment and the Energy segment, which is made up of our former Energy/Renewables and Pipeline Services segments. The Utilities segment operates throughout the United States and specializes in a range of services, including the installation and maintenance of new and existing natural gas and electric utility distribution and transmission systems, and communications systems.
The Energy segment operates throughout the United States and Canada and specializes in a range of services that include engineering, procurement, construction, retrofits, highway and bridge construction, demolition, site work, soil stabilization, mass excavation, flood control, upgrades, repairs, outages, pipeline construction and maintenance, pipeline integrity services, and maintenance services for entities in the renewable energy and energy storage, renewable fuels, and petroleum and petrochemical industries, as well as state departments of transportation.
Acquisitions
See Note 4 - “Business Combinations” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional detail.
PLH Group, Inc. On August 1, 2022, we acquired PLH Group, Inc. (“PLH”) in an all-cash transaction valued at approximately $429.0 million, net of cash acquired (the “PLH acquisition”). PLH is a utility-focused infrastructure services company with concentrations in growing regions of the United States. The transaction directly aligns with our strategic focus on higher-growth, higher margin markets and expands our capabilities in the power delivery, communications, and gas utilities markets.
B Comm, LLC. On June 8, 2022, we acquired B Comm, LLC (“B Comm”) in an all-cash transaction for approximately $36.0 million, net of cash acquired. B Comm is a provider of maintenance, repair, upgrade and installation services to the communications markets. The transaction directly aligns with the strategy to grow our MSA revenue base and expand our communication services within the utility markets.
Future Infrastructure Holdings, LLC. On January 15, 2021, we acquired Future Infrastructure Holdings, LLC (“FIH”) in an all-cash transaction valued at approximately $604.7 million, net of cash acquired. FIH is a provider of non-discretionary maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation services to the communications, regulated gas utility, and infrastructure markets. FIH furthers our strategic plan to expand our service lines, enter new markets, and grow our MSA revenue base. The transaction directly aligns with our strategy to grow in large, higher growth, higher margin markets, and expands our utility services capabilities.
Other acquisitions. In addition to these acquisitions, we have acquired other businesses as we continue to seek opportunities to deepen our market presence, broaden our geographic reach, and expand our service offerings. We continue to evaluate potential acquisition candidates, especially those with strong management teams and growing end markets such as renewable energy, gas and electric utilities, and communications.
Strategy
Our strategy has remained consistent from year to year and continues to emphasize the following key elements:
● Growth Through Controlled Expansion. We continue to grow our Company by expanding our scope of services, leveraging our existing customer base to expand into new geographic markets, and adding new customers. In addition, we continue to evaluate acquisitions that offer growth opportunities and the ability to leverage our resources as a leading service provider to the energy, power, utility and communications industries. Our strategy also focuses on higher growth end markets such as renewable energy, utilities and communications.
● Emphasis on MSA Revenue Growth and Retention of Existing Customers. In order to fully leverage our relationships with our existing customer base, we believe it is important to maintain strong customer relationships in order to drive more revenue from them. We are also focused on expanding our base of services provided under MSAs, which are generally multi-year agreements that provide visible, recurring revenue.
● Ownership or Long-Term Leasing of Equipment. Many of our services are equipment intensive. The cost of construction equipment, and in some cases the availability of construction equipment, provides a significant barrier to entry into several of our businesses. We believe that our ownership or long-term leasing of a large and varied construction fleet and our maintenance facilities enhances our access to reliable equipment at a favorable cost.
● Stable Work Force. Our business model emphasizes self-performance of a significant portion of our work. In both of our segments, we maintain a stable work force of skilled, experienced craft professionals, many of whom are cross-trained on projects such as pipeline and facility construction, refinery maintenance, gas and electrical distribution, and piping systems.
● Selective Bidding. We selectively bid projects that we believe offer an opportunity to meet our profitability objectives and that may offer the opportunity to enter promising new markets. In addition, we review our bidding opportunities to attempt to minimize concentration of work with any one customer, in any one industry, or in stressed labor markets. We believe that by carefully positioning ourselves in market segments that have meaningful barriers of entry, we can continue to be competitive.
● Maintain a strong balance sheet and a conservative capital structure. We have maintained a capital structure that provides access to debt financing as needed while relying on strong operating cash flows to provide the primary support for our operations. We believe this structure provides our customers, our lenders, and our bonding companies assurance of our financial capabilities. We maintain a revolving credit facility to provide letter of credit capability and, if needed, to augment our liquidity needs.
Backlog
Backlog is discussed in Item 7 “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, which is incorporated herein by reference.
Customers
We have longstanding customer relationships with utility, refining, petrochemical, communications, midstream, downstream, and engineering companies, as well as independent power producers and transportation agencies across our core markets. We have completed major underground and industrial projects for large natural gas transmission and petrochemical companies in the United States, major electrical and gas projects for large utility companies in the United States, as well as significant projects for our engineering customers. Although we have not been dependent upon any one customer in any year, a small number of customers tend to constitute a substantial portion of our total revenue in any given year.
We enter into a large number of contracts each year, and the projects can vary in length from daily work orders to as long as 36 months, and occasionally longer, for completion on larger projects. We often provide services under long term MSAs, which are generally multi-year agreements for specific types of work. Work performed under these contracts is typically generated through project specific work orders, ranging from repairs and new installations, to maintenance and upgrade services. These MSAs have various terms, depending on the nature of the services provided, and our customers are generally not contractually obligated to purchase an amount of services from us under the MSAs, although we do have MSAs that include minimum spend requirements, or targeted spend amounts. For the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, revenue derived from projects performed under MSAs was 36.7%, 45.8%, and 45.9 %, respectively.
Our customers have included the Texas Department of Transportation and Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development in the Southern United States as well as many of the leading energy and utility companies in the United States, including, among others, Enterprise Pipeline, Xcel Energy, Pacific Gas & Electric, Southern California Gas, Oncor Electric, Duke Energy, Sempra Energy, Williams, Hecate Energy, Consumers Energy, Dominion, Valero, Enel Green Power North America, ExxonMobil and Phillips 66.
Our top ten customers vary from year to year due to the nature of our business. A large construction project for a customer may result in significant revenue in one year, with significantly less revenue in subsequent years after project completion. For the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, 41.1%, 46.1% and 42.9%, respectively, of total revenue was generated from our top ten customers in each year. In each of the years, a different group of customers comprised the top ten customers by revenue.
Management in each of our segments and business units is responsible for developing and maintaining successful long-term relationships with customers. Our segment and business unit management teams work with our business development group to foster existing customer relationships and better understand their needs in order to secure additional projects and increase revenue from our current customer base. Segment and business unit managers are also responsible for working with our business development group in pursuing growth opportunities with prospective new customers.
We believe that developing and fostering strategic relationships with customers will result in increased future opportunities. Some of our strategic relationships are in the form of long-term MSAs. However, we realize that future opportunities also require cost effective, high value bids, as pricing is a key element for most construction projects and service agreements.
Seasonality, Cyclicality and Variability
Our results of operations are subject to quarterly variations. Some of the variation is the result of weather, particularly rain, ice, snow, and named storms, which can impact our ability to perform construction and infrastructure services. These seasonal impacts can affect revenue and profitability in all of our businesses. Any quarter can be affected either negatively, or positively by atypical weather patterns in any part of the country. In addition, demand for new projects in our Utilities segment tends to be lower during the early part of the calendar year due to clients’ internal budget cycles. As a result, we usually experience higher revenue and earnings in the second, third and fourth quarters of the year as compared to the first quarter.
Our project values range in size from several hundred dollars to several hundred million dollars. The bulk of our work is comprised of project sizes that average less than $3.0 million. We also perform construction projects which tend not to be seasonal, but can fluctuate from year to year based on customer timing, project duration, weather, and general economic conditions. Our business may be affected by declines, or delays in new projects, or by client project schedules. Because of the cyclical nature of our business, the financial results for any period may fluctuate from prior periods, and our financial condition and operating results may vary from quarter to quarter. Results from one quarter may not be indicative of our financial condition, or operating results for any other quarter, or for an entire year.
Competition
We face competition on large construction projects from both regional and national contractors, including competition from larger companies that have financial and other resources in excess of those available to us. Competitors on small construction projects range from a few large construction companies, to a variety of smaller contractors. We compete with many local and regional firms for construction services and with a number of large firms on select projects. Each business unit faces varied competition depending on the types of projects, project locations, and services offered.
We compete with different companies in different end markets. For example, competitors in our utilities markets include Quanta Services, Inc. Dycom Industries, MYR Group, and MasTec, Inc.; competitors in our industrial markets include PCL, Kiewit, Granite Construction, Performance Contractors and Boh Brothers; competitors in the renewables market include Blattner Energy, and Mortenson; and competitors in our highway services markets include Sterling Construction Company and Zachry Construction Company. In each market we may also compete with local, private companies.
We believe that the primary factors influencing competition in our industry are price, reputation for quality, safety, schedule certainty, relevant experience, availability of field supervision and skilled labor, machinery and equipment, financial strength, as well as knowledge of local markets and conditions. We believe that we have the ability to compete favorably in all of these factors.
Contract Provisions and Subcontracting
We typically structure contracts as unit-price, time and material, fixed-price or cost reimbursable plus fixed fee. A portion of our revenue is derived from MSAs, which provide a menu of available services that are utilized on an as-needed basis and are typically priced using a unit-price or on a time and material basis. The remainder of our services are generated from contracts for specific construction or installation projects, which are subject to multiple pricing options, including unit-price, time and material, fixed-price, or cost reimbursable plus fixed fee. Under a fixed-price contract, we provide labor, equipment and services required by a project for a competitively bid or negotiated fixed price. Under a unit-price contract, we are committed to providing materials or services required by a project at a fixed price per unit of work. While the unit-price contract shifts the risk of estimating the quantity of units required for a particular project to the customer, any increase in our unit cost over the unit price bid, whether due to inflation, inefficiency, faulty estimates or other factors, is borne by us. Significant materials required under a fixed-price or unit-price contract, such as pipe, turbines, boilers and vessels, are typically supplied by the customer.
Substantially all of our gas and electric distribution services are provided pursuant to renewable MSAs on a “unit-price” basis. Fees on unit-price contracts are negotiated and earned based on units completed. Historically, substantially all of the gas and electric distribution customers have renewed their MSAs with us. Facility maintenance services, such as regularly scheduled and emergency repair work, are provided on an ongoing basis at predetermined rates, or on a time and material basis.
Construction contracts are primarily obtained through competitive bidding or through negotiations with customers. We are typically invited to bid on projects undertaken by customers who maintain pre-qualified contractor lists. Contractors are selected for the pre-approved contractor lists by virtue of their prior performance for such customers, as well as their experience, reputation for quality, safety record, financial strength, competitiveness, and bonding capacity.
In evaluating bid opportunities, we consider such factors as the customer, the geographic location of the work, the availability of labor, our competitive advantage or disadvantage relative to other likely bidders, our current and projected workload, the likelihood of additional work, our history with the client, contract terms, and the project’s cost and profitability estimates. We use sophisticated estimating systems and our estimating staff has significant experience in the construction industry. The project estimates form the basis of a project budget against which performance is tracked through a project cost system, thereby enabling management to monitor a project’s cost and schedule performance. Project costs are accumulated and monitored regularly against billings and payments to ensure proper tracking of cash flow on the project.
Most contracts provide for termination of the contract at the convenience of the owner or contractor. The terms associated with termination for convenience typically cover the reimbursement of all of our costs through a specific date, as well as all reasonable costs associated with demobilizing from the jobsite. In addition, contracts may be subject to certain completion schedule requirements which may include liquidated damages in the event schedules are not met.
We act as prime contractor on a majority of the construction projects we undertake. In the construction industry, the prime contractor is normally responsible for the execution of the entire contract scope of work, including subcontract work. Thus, we are potentially subject to increased costs and reputational risks associated with the failure of one or more of our subcontractors to perform their respective scope as defined in the contract. While we subcontract specialized activities such as blasting, hazardous waste removal and selected electrical/instrumentation work, we self-perform most of the work on our projects with our own resources, including field supervision, labor, and equipment.
Risk Management, Insurance and Bonding
We maintain a comprehensive schedule of insurance policies covering a broad range of exposures arising from our construction and general business operations. All of our policies have been procured with limits and deductibles or self-insured retention amounts up to $1,000,000 per occurrence. In addition, we maintain certain self-insured retentions in our insurance policies in excess of our general and auto liability policies.
We maintain a diligent safety and risk management program that has resulted in a favorable loss experience factor. Through our safety director and the employment of a large staff of regional and site-specific safety managers, we have been able to effectively assess and control potential losses and liabilities in both the pre-construction and performance phases of our projects. Though we strongly focus on safety in the workplace, we cannot give assurances that we can prevent or reduce all injuries and/or claims in our workplace.
In connection with our business, we generally are required to provide various types of surety bonds guaranteeing our performance under certain public and private sector contracts. Our ability to obtain surety bonds depends upon our capitalization, working capital, backlog, past performance, management expertise and other factors, and the surety company’s current underwriting standards. To date, we have obtained the level of surety bonds necessary to support our business.
Regulation and Environmental Requirements
Our operations are subject to compliance with regulatory requirements of federal, state, and municipal agencies and authorities, and international laws and regulations including with respect to:
● Licensing, permitting and inspection requirements applicable to construction projects;
● Worker safety, including regulations established by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration;
● Wage and hour regulations and regulations associated with our collective bargaining agreements and unionized workforce;
● Transportation of equipment and materials, including licensing and permitting requirements, as well as aviation activities;
● Building and electrical codes;
● Applicable U.S. and non-U.S. anti-corruption regulations;
● Immigration regulations applicable to the U.S. and cross-border employment;
● Labor relations and affirmative action;
● Special bidding, procurement and other requirements on government projects; and
● Protection of the environment, including regulations established by the Environmental Protection Agency, state agencies and other foreign environmental regulators.
We believe that we have all the licenses and permits required to conduct our operations and that we are in substantial compliance with applicable regulatory requirements.
We are subject to numerous federal, state, local and international environmental laws and regulations governing our operations, including the handling, transportation and disposal of non-hazardous and hazardous substances and wastes, as well as emissions and discharges into the environment, including discharges to air, surface water, groundwater and soil. We have a substantial investment in construction equipment that utilizes diesel fuel, which could be negatively impacted by regulations related to greenhouse gas emissions from such sources.
We also are subject to laws and regulations that impose liability and cleanup responsibility for releases of hazardous substances into the environment. Under some of these laws and regulations, liability can be imposed for cleanup of previously owned or leased properties, or properties to which hazardous substances or wastes were sent by current, or former operations at our facilities, regardless of whether we directly caused the contamination or violated any law at the time of discharge, or disposal. The presence of contamination from such substances or wastes could interfere with ongoing operations, or affect our ability to sell, lease or use our properties as collateral for financing.
We continually evaluate whether we must take additional steps at our locations to ensure compliance with environmental laws. While compliance with applicable regulatory requirements has not materially adversely affected our operations in the past, there can be no assurance these requirements will not change, and compliance will not adversely affect our operations in the future. In addition, tighter regulation for the protection of the environment and other factors may make it more difficult to obtain new permits and renewal of existing permits may be subject to more restrictive conditions than currently exist.
Climate Change-Related Impacts
Our management considers climate-related risks and opportunities in connection with its long-term strategic planning and enterprise risk management process. While the overall impact on our operations continues to evolve, various aspects of climate change, as well as market and societal concerns about the future impact of climate change, have resulted and are expected to continue to result in operational opportunities and challenges. These opportunities and challenges arise from the physical risks associated with changes in climate, as well as technological advances, market developments and additional regulatory and compliance costs.
Our operating results can be significantly influenced by the climates in which we operate as well as severe weather events. Changes in climate could result in more accommodating weather patterns for greater periods of time in certain areas, which may enable us to increase our productivity in those areas. Physical risks associated with climate change have also increased hazards associated with certain of our operations, which in turn has increased the potential for liability and increased the costs associated with such operations. Additionally, new legislation or regulation related to
climate change could increase our costs. However, due to climate change risks some utility customers are transitioning toward more sustainable sources of power generation, such as renewables, which can provide additional opportunities for our Energy segment. For additional information regarding the risks and opportunities described above, see Risks Related to Operating Our Business in Item 1A. “Risk Factors” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Human Capital Management
Employee Profile. We believe that our employees are vital to successfully completing our projects. Our ability to maintain sufficient, continuous work for hourly employees helps us to maintain a stable, loyal workforce with an understanding of our policies and culture, which contributes to our strong performance, safety and quality record. Our talent acquisition team uses internal and external resources to recruit highly skilled and talented workers, and we encourage employee referrals for open positions. In addition, we have partnerships with technical schools where we recruit and hire craft employees.
Several of our subsidiaries have operations that are unionized through the negotiation and execution of collective bargaining agreements. As of December 31, 2023, approximately 30.6% of our hourly employees, primarily consisting of field laborers, were covered by collective bargaining agreements. These collective bargaining agreements have varying terms and are subject to renegotiation upon expiration. We have not experienced recent work stoppages and believe our employee and union relations are good.
As of December 31, 2023, we employed 2,773 salaried employees and 11,285 hourly employees. The total number of hourly personnel employed is subject to the volume of infrastructure services and construction work in progress.
Diversity and Inclusion. We employ a dynamic mix of people to create the strongest company possible. Our policy prohibits discrimination in employment on the basis of age, culture, gender, national origin, sexual orientation, physical appearance, race or religion. We are an inclusive, diverse company with people of all backgrounds, experiences, cultures, styles and talents. We have a Diversity and Inclusion committee whose goal is to identify and advance efforts that aim to create and foster a workplace that is reflective of, and contributes to, the diverse communities in which we do business. The committee promotes awareness of diversity and inclusion issues in support of company-wide efforts to build a more inclusive and diverse workplace.
Professional and Career Development. We strive to develop and sustain a skilled labor advantage by providing thorough on-and off-site training programs, project management training, and leadership development programs. We have company-owned training facilities that support continuous skills training, including several locations where we train electric apprentices to become journeymen. We offer multiple levels of leadership programs designed to meet the needs of our employees and support the development of best-in-class talent. Our five cornerstone programs are Foreman Foundations, Extreme Ownership, Hunt for Leadership Success, Next Level Leadership, and The Leadership Experience. From Foreman Foundations where employees learn the fundamentals of transitioning from a crew member to a crew leader through The Leadership Experience where emerging leaders explore values-based leadership and sharpen their strategic leadership skills, our Learning and Development programs are designed to support Primoris’ vision, mission, and values and promote the growth of our greatest assets, our employees.
Safety, Health and Wellness. We are committed to the health, safety and wellness of our employees, and we pride ourselves on above average workplace safety. We track and maintain several key safety metrics, which senior management reviews monthly, and we evaluate management on their ability to provide safe working conditions on job sites and to create a strong safety culture. Lost Time Injury Rate (“LTIR”) tracks the rate of injuries in the workplace which results in the employee having to take a minimum of one full working day away from work. For the year ended December 31, 2023, our LTIR rate was 0.07 compared to an industry average of 1.0 per the U.S. Bureau of Labor construction industry statistics. Total Recordable Incident Rate (“TRIR”) tracks the total number of workplace injuries which rise to the level of Occupational Safety and Health Administration recordability, whether leading to time away from work or not. TRIR is reported as the number of workplace safety incidents per 100 full-time workers during a one-year period. For the year ended December 31, 2023, our TRIR rate was 0.46 compared to an industry average of 2.4 per the U.S. Bureau of Labor construction industry statistics.
Compensation and Benefits. As part of our compensation philosophy, we believe that we must offer and maintain market competitive total rewards programs for our employees in order to attract and retain superior talent. Our compensation programs are generally designed to align employee compensation with market practices and our performance. With respect to our executive officers, business unit management, and other senior leadership, compensation programs consist of both fixed and variable components. The fixed portion is generally set at market levels, with variable compensation designed to reward employees based on company and individual performance. In connection with these compensation programs, we grant stock-based compensation to management and key personnel at the business unit levels, which we believe helps to align incentives throughout our organization. We also enter into employment agreements with our executive officers and certain other key personnel. For additional information regarding our executive compensation, please see the information required in Item 11 “Executive Compensation,” which will be incorporated by reference from our definitive proxy statement related to our 2024 Annual Meeting of Stockholders.
We also provide additional benefits to our non-union employees, including a Company matched 401(k) Plan, healthcare and insurance benefits, health savings and flexible spending accounts, paid time off, family leave, flexible work schedules, and employee assistance programs.
Code of Conduct. All of our employees are subject to our Code of Conduct, which includes guidance and requirements concerning, among other things, general business ethics, including policies concerning the environment, conflicts of interest, anti-corruption, harassment and discrimination, data security and privacy, insider trading and the Anti-Bribery & Corruption Policy, which includes guidance and requirements concerning, among other things, interactions with government officials; provision of gifts, entertainment and hospitality; and charitable and political contributions.
Website Access and Other Information
Our website address is www.prim.com. You may obtain free electronic copies of our Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K, and any amendments to these reports through our website under the “Investors” tab or through the website of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) at www.sec.gov. These reports are available on our website as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file them with, or furnish them to, the SEC. In addition, the charters of our Audit Committee, Compensation Committee, Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee, and Strategy and Risk Committee are posted on our website under the “Investors/Governance Documents” tab. Also posted on our website under the “Investors/Governance Documents” tab are our Code of Conduct and charters for our Environmental, Social and Governance Committee, Enterprise Risk Management Committee, Cyber Security Steering Committee, and Diversity and Inclusion Committee along with our Human Rights and Corporate Environmental policies. We intend to disclose on our website any amendments or waivers to our Code of Conduct.
We will make available to any stockholder, without charge, copies of our Annual Report on Form 10-K as filed with the SEC. For copies of this or any other information, stockholders should submit a request in writing to Primoris Services Corporation, Inc., Attn: Corporate Secretary, 2300 N. Field Street, Suite 1900, Dallas, TX 75201.
This Annual Report on Form 10-K and our website may contain information provided by other sources that we believe are reliable. However, we cannot assure you that the information obtained from other sources is accurate or complete. No information on our website is incorporated by reference herein and should not be considered part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

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ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
Our business is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties, many of which are described below. Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known to us or that we currently believe to be immaterial also may have a material adverse effect on our business in the future. This Annual Report on Form 10-K includes projections, assumptions and beliefs that are intended to be “forward looking statements” and should be read in conjunction with the discussion of “Forward Looking Statements” at the beginning of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
The following risk factors could have a material adverse effect on our business, the results of our operations, our financial condition, our cash flow and the price of our shares. These risk factors could prevent us from meeting our goals or expectations.
Risks Related Primarily to Operating our Business
Our financial and operating results may vary significantly from quarter-to-quarter and year-to-year.
Our business is subject to seasonal and annual fluctuations. Some of the quarterly variation is the result of weather, particularly rain, ice, snow, and named storms, which create difficult operating conditions. Similarly, demand for routine repair and maintenance services for gas utilities is lower during their peak customer needs in the winter, and demand for routine repair and maintenance services for electric utilities is lower during their peak customer needs in the summer. Some of the annual variation is the result of construction projects which fluctuate based on customer timing, project duration, weather, and general economic conditions. Annual and quarterly results may also be adversely affected by:
● Changes in our mix of customers, projects, contracts and business;
● Regional or national and/or general economic conditions and demand for our services;
● Variations and changes in the margins of projects performed during any particular quarter;
● Increases in the costs to perform services caused by changing conditions;
● The termination, or expiration of existing agreements or contracts;
● The budgetary spending patterns of customers;
● Increases in construction costs, including due to inflation or supply chain challenges, that we may be unable to pass through to our customers;
● Cost or schedule overruns on fixed-price contracts;
● Availability of qualified labor for specific projects;
● Changes in bonding requirements and bonding availability for existing and new agreements;
● The need and availability of letters of credit;
● Costs we incur to support growth, whether organic or through acquisitions;
● The timing and volume of work under contract; and
● Losses experienced in our operations.
As a result, our operating results in any particular quarter may not be indicative of the operating results expected for any other quarter, or for an entire year.
Demand for our services may decrease during economic recessions or volatile economic cycles, and a reduction in demand in end markets may adversely affect our business.
A substantial portion of our revenue and profit is generated from construction projects, the awarding of which we do not directly control. The engineering and construction industry historically has experienced cyclical fluctuations in financial results due to economic recessions, downturns in business cycles of our customers, material shortages, price increases by subcontractors, interest rate fluctuations and other economic factors beyond our control. When the general level of economic activity deteriorates, our customers may delay, or cancel upgrades, expansions, and/or maintenance and repairs to their systems. Many factors, including the financial condition of the industry, could adversely affect our customers and their willingness to fund capital expenditures in the future.
Economic, political, regulatory and market conditions affecting our specific end markets may adversely impact the demand for our services, resulting in the delay, reduction or cancellation of certain projects and these conditions may continue to adversely affect us in the future. For example, much of the work that we perform in the highway markets involves funding by federal, state and local governments. This funding is subject to fluctuation based on the budgets and operating priorities of the various government agencies.
We are also dependent on the amount of work our customers outsource. In a slower economy, our customers may decide to outsource less infrastructure services, reducing demand for our services. In addition, consolidation, competition or capital constraints in the industries we serve may result in reduced spending by our customers.
Many of our customers are regulated by federal and state government agencies and the addition of new regulations or changes to existing regulations may adversely impact demand for our services and the profitability of those services.
Many of our energy customers are regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (“FERC”), and our utility customers are regulated by state public utility commissions. These agencies could change the way in which they interpret current regulations and may impose additional regulations. These changes could have an adverse effect on our customers and the profitability of the services they provide, which could reduce demand for our services or delay our ability to complete projects. Additionally, our failure to comply with applicable regulations could result in substantial fines or revocation of our operating licenses, as well as give rise to termination or cancellation rights under our contracts or disqualify us from future bidding opportunities.
The demand for our pipeline construction services is dependent on the level of operating and capital project spending by midstream companies in the oil and gas industry and industrial companies primarily in the petrochemical industry. This level of spending is subject to large fluctuations depending primarily on the current price, volatility, and expectations of future prices of oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids. The price is a function of many factors, including levels of supply and demand, government policies and regulations, oil industry refining capacity and the potential development of alternative fuels.
Specific government decisions could affect demand for our construction services. For example, limitations on the use of “fracking” technology, creation of significant regulatory issues for the construction of underground pipelines and permitting and licensing requirements have reduced our underground work.
Conversely, government regulations may increase the demand for our pipeline services. Recent pipeline safety legislation could increase demand for our pipeline facility, maintenance, integrity and repair services.
Our business may be materially adversely impacted by regional, national and/or global requirements related to climate change and the impact of greenhouse gas emissions in the future.
Greenhouse gases that result from human activities, including burning of fossil fuels, are the focus of increased scientific and political scrutiny and may be subject to changing legal requirements. International agreements, federal laws, state laws and various regulatory schemes to limit or otherwise regulate emissions of greenhouse gases, and additional restrictions are under consideration by different governmental entities. We derive a small portion of our revenue and contract profit from engineering and construction services to clients that own and/or operate a wide range of process plants and own and/or operate electric power generating plants that generate electricity from burning natural gas or various types of solid fuels. These plants emit greenhouse gases as part of the process to generate electricity or other products. Compliance with existing greenhouse gas regulation may prove costly or difficult. It is possible that owners and operators of existing or future process plants and electric generating plants could be subject to new or changed environmental regulations that result in significantly limiting, or reducing the amounts of greenhouse gas emissions, increasing the cost of emitting such gases or requiring emissions allowances. The costs of controlling such emissions or obtaining required emissions allowances could be significant. It also is possible that necessary controls or allowances may not be available. Such regulations could negatively impact client investments in capital projects in our markets, which could negatively impact the market for our products and/or services.
The establishment of additional rules limiting greenhouse gas emissions could also impact our ability to perform construction services, or to perform these services with current levels of profitability. New regulations may require us to acquire different equipment or change processes. The new equipment may not be available, or it may not be purchased or rented in a cost-effective manner. Project deferrals, delays or cancellations resulting from the potential regulations could adversely impact our business.
In addition, we could be held liable for significant penalties and damages under certain environmental laws and regulations and also could be subject to a revocation of our licenses or permits. Our contracts with our customers may also impose liabilities on us regarding environmental issues that arise through the performance of our services. From time to time, we may incur costs and obligations for correcting environmental noncompliance matters and for remediation at or relating to certain of our job sites or properties. We believe that we are in substantial compliance with our environmental obligations.
While the potential impact of climate-related changes, including legislative and regulatory responses thereto, on our operations is uncertain, management considers climate-related risks and opportunities in connection with its long-term strategic planning and short-term deployment of resources. Climate change may result in, among other things, changes in rainfall patterns, storm patterns and intensities and temperature levels. Our operating results are significantly influenced by weather, and major changes in historical weather patterns could significantly impact our future operating results. For example, if climate change results in significantly more adverse weather conditions in a given period, we could experience reduced productivity, which could negatively impact our operating results.
Concerns about the impact of climate change have resulted, and are expected to continue to result, in technological advancements and market developments that impact our business. For example, utility customers are transitioning toward more sustainable sources of power generation, such as renewables, which can provide additional opportunities for our Energy segment. Additionally, increased electrification of new technologies may lead to continued and additional demand for new and expanded electric power infrastructure and reengineering of existing electric power infrastructure. However, concerns about climate change could also result in potential new regulations, regulatory actions or requirements to fund energy efficiency activities, as well as decreased demand for refined products, which in turn could negatively impact our customers and demand for certain of our pipeline, underground utility and infrastructure services.
Climate change could also affect our customers and the types of projects that they award. Demand for power projects, underground pipelines or highway projects could be affected by significant changes in weather, or climate conditions, or by regulatory changes relating to climate change, which could in turn reduce demand for our services.
Our results could be adversely affected by natural disasters, public health crises, political crises, or other catastrophic events.
Natural disasters, such as hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, earthquakes, and other adverse weather and climate conditions; public health crises, such as pandemics and epidemics; political crises, such as terrorist attacks, war, labor unrest, and other political instability; or other catastrophic events could disrupt our operations, or the operations of one or more of our vendors or customers, and could adversely affect our financial results. In particular, these types of events could impact our product supply chain from or to the impacted region and could cause our customers to delay or cancel projects, which could impact our ability to operate. In addition, these types of events could lead to general inefficiencies from having to start and stop work, re-sequencing work or modifying our customary work practices.
Changes to renewable portfolio standards and decreased demand for renewable energy projects could negatively impact our future results of operations, cash flows and liquidity.
A significant portion of our future business may be focused on providing construction and/or installation services to owners and operators of solar power and other renewable energy facilities. Currently, the development of solar and other renewable energy facilities is dependent on the existence of renewable portfolio standards and other state incentives and requirements. Renewable portfolio standards are state-specific statutory provisions requiring or encouraging that electric utilities generate a certain amount of electricity from renewable energy sources. These standards have initiated significant growth in the renewable energy industry and increased demand for renewable energy infrastructure construction services. Elimination of, or changes to, existing renewable portfolio standards, tax credits or similar environmental policies may negatively affect future demand for our services.
We may lose business to competitors through the competitive bidding processes.
We are engaged in highly competitive businesses in which most customer contracts are awarded through bidding processes based on price and the acceptance of certain risks, along with other factors. We compete with other infrastructure services contractors, both regional and national, as well as small local contractors. The strong competition in our markets requires maintaining skilled personnel and investing in technology, and puts pressure on profit margins. We do not obtain contracts from all of our bids and our inability to win bids at acceptable profit margins would adversely affect our business.
We may be unsuccessful at generating internal growth which may affect our ability to expand our operations or grow our business.
Our ability to generate internal growth may be affected by, among other factors, our ability to:
● Attract new customers;
● Increase the number of projects performed for existing customers;
● Hire and retain qualified personnel;
● Secure appropriate levels of construction equipment;
● Successfully bid for new projects; and
● Adapt the range of services we offer to address our customers’ evolving construction needs.
In addition, our customers may reduce the number or size of projects available to us due to their inability to obtain capital. Our customers may also reduce projects in response to economic conditions.
Many of the factors affecting our ability to generate internal growth may be beyond our control, and we cannot be certain that our strategies will be successful or that we will be able to generate cash flow sufficient to fund our operations and to support internal growth. If we are unsuccessful, we may not be able to achieve internal growth, expand our operations or grow our business.
The timing of new contracts may result in unpredictable fluctuations in our business.
Substantial portions of our revenue are derived from project-based work that is awarded through a competitive bid process. The portion of revenue generated from the competitive bid process for 2023, 2022 and 2021 was approximately 30.1%, 26.3%, and 31.2%, respectively. It is generally very difficult to predict the timing and geographic distribution of the projects that we will be awarded. The selection of, timing of or failure to obtain projects, delays in award of projects, the re-bidding or termination of projects due to budget overruns, cancellations of projects or delays in completion of contracts could result in the under-utilization of our assets and reduce our cash flows. Even if we are awarded contracts, we face additional risks that could affect whether or when work will begin. For example, some of our contracts are subject to financing, permitting and other contingencies that may delay or result in termination of projects. We may have difficulty in matching workforce size and equipment location with contract needs. In some cases, we may be required to bear the cost of a ready workforce and equipment that is larger than necessary, resulting in unpredictability in our cash flow, expenses and profitability. If any expected contract award, or the related work release is delayed or not received, we could incur substantial costs without receipt of any corresponding revenue. Finally, the winding down or completion of work on significant projects will reduce our revenue and earnings if these projects have not been replaced.
We derive a meaningful portion of our revenue from a few customers, and the loss of one or more of these customers could have significant effects on our revenue, resulting in adverse effects on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Our customer base is reasonably concentrated, with our top ten customers accounting for approximately 41.1% of our revenue in 2023, 46.1% of our revenue in 2022 and 42.9% of our revenue in 2021. However, the customers included in our top ten customer list generally vary from year to year. Our revenue is dependent both on performance of larger construction projects and relatively smaller projects under MSAs. For the large construction projects, the completion of the project does not necessarily represent the permanent loss of a customer; however, the future revenue generated from work for that customer may fluctuate significantly.
We also generate ongoing revenue from our MSA customers, which are generally comprised of regulated gas and electric utilities. If we were to lose one of these customers, our revenue could decline. Reduced demand for our services by larger construction customers or a loss of a significant MSA customer could have an adverse effect on our business.
Our international operations expose us to legal, political and economic risks in different countries as well as currency exchange rate fluctuations that could harm our business and financial results. We could be adversely affected by our failure to comply with laws applicable to our foreign activities, such as the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act.
During 2023, 2022 and 2021, revenue attributable to our services outside of the United States, principally in Canada, was 5.8%, 6.7% and 4.5% of our total revenue, respectively. There are risks inherent in doing business internationally, including:
● Imposition of governmental controls and changes in laws, regulations, policies, practices, tariffs and taxes;
● Political and economic instability;
● Changes in United States and other national government trade policies affecting the market for our services;
● Potential non-compliance with a wide variety of laws and regulations, including the United States Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (“FCPA”) and similar non-United States laws and regulations;
● Currency exchange rate fluctuations, devaluations and other conversion restrictions;
● Restrictions on or fees or taxes associated with repatriating foreign profit back to the United States; and
● Difficulties in staffing and managing international operations.
The FCPA and similar anti-bribery laws in other jurisdictions prohibit U.S.-based companies and their intermediaries from making improper payments to non-U.S. officials for the purpose of obtaining or retaining business. We pursue opportunities in certain parts of the world that experience government corruption, and in certain circumstances, compliance with anti-bribery laws may conflict with local customs and practices. Our internal policies mandate compliance with all applicable anti-bribery laws. We require our partners, subcontractors, agents and others who work for us or on our behalf to comply with the FCPA and other anti-bribery laws. There is no assurance that our policies or procedures will protect us against liability under the FCPA or other laws for actions taken by our agents, employees and intermediaries. If we are found to be liable for FCPA violations (either due to our own acts or our inadvertence, or due to the acts or inadvertence of others), we could suffer from severe criminal or civil penalties or other sanctions, which could have a material adverse effect on our reputation and business. In addition, detecting, investigating and resolving actual or alleged FCPA violations is expensive and could consume significant time and attention of our senior management.
Backlog may not be realized or may not result in revenue or profit.
Backlog is measured and defined differently by companies within our industry. We refer to “backlog” as our anticipated revenue from the uncompleted portions of existing contracts where scope is adequately defined, and therefore we can reasonably estimate total contract value, and the estimated revenue on MSA work. We present two measures of backlog; one that includes fixed backlog and estimated revenue on MSA work for the next four quarters, and total backlog that includes all fixed backlog and estimated revenue on MSA work to the end of the MSA agreement. We do not consider renewals when estimating total backlog. Backlog is not a comprehensive indicator of future revenue. Most contracts may be terminated by our customers on short notice. Reductions in backlog due to cancellation by a customer, or for other reasons, could significantly reduce the revenue that we actually receive from contracts in backlog. In the event of a project cancellation, we are typically reimbursed for all of our costs through a specific date, as well as all reasonable costs associated with demobilizing from the jobsite, but we typically have no contractual right to the total revenue reflected in our backlog. Projects may remain in backlog for extended periods of time. While backlog includes estimated MSA revenue, customers are not contractually obligated to purchase a certain amount of services under the MSA.
Given these factors, our backlog at any point in time may not accurately represent the revenue that we expect to realize during any period, and our backlog as of the end of a fiscal year may not be indicative of the revenue we expect to earn in the following fiscal year. Inability to realize revenue from our backlog could have an adverse effect on our business.
While backlog may not be indicative of the revenue we expect to earn the following fiscal year, it is a potential indicator of future revenue; however, recognition of revenue from backlog does not necessarily ensure that the projects will be profitable. Poor project execution could impact profit from contracts included in backlog. For projects for which
a loss is expected, future revenue will be recorded with no margin, which may reduce the overall margin percentage for work performed.
Our actual cost may be greater than expected in performing our contracts causing us to realize significantly lower profit or losses on our projects.
We currently generate, and expect to continue to generate, a substantial portion of our revenue from fixed price and unit price contracts. The actual cost of labor and materials may vary from the costs we originally estimated, and we may not be successful in recouping additional costs from our customers. These variations may cause gross profit for a project to differ from those we originally estimated. Reduced profitability or losses on projects could occur due to changes in a variety of factors such as:
● Failure to properly estimate costs of engineering, materials, equipment or labor;
● Unanticipated technical problems with the structures, materials or services being supplied by us, which may require that we spend our own money to remedy the problem;
● Project modifications not reimbursed by the client creating unanticipated costs;
● Changes in the costs of equipment, materials, labor or subcontractors;
● Our suppliers or subcontractors failure to perform;
● Changes in local laws and regulations, and;
● Delays caused by weather conditions.
As projects grow in size and complexity, multiple factors may contribute to reduced profit or losses, and depending on the size of the particular project, variations from the estimated contract costs could have a material adverse effect on our business.
Weather can significantly affect our revenue and profitability.
Our ability to perform work and meet customer schedules can be affected by weather conditions such as snow, ice, rain, and named storms. Weather may affect our ability to work efficiently and can cause project delays and additional costs. Our ability to negotiate change orders for the impact of weather on a project could impact our profitability. In addition, the impact of weather can cause significant variability in our quarterly revenue and profitability.
We require subcontractors and suppliers to assist us in providing certain services, and we may be unable to retain the necessary subcontractors or obtain supplies to complete certain projects which could adversely affect our business.
We use subcontractors to perform portions of our contracts and to manage workflow. While we are not dependent on any single subcontractor, general market conditions may limit the availability of subcontractors to perform portions of our contracts causing delays and increasing our costs.
Although significant materials are often supplied by the customer, we use suppliers to provide some materials and equipment used for projects. If a supplier fails to provide supplies and equipment at the estimated price, fails to provide adequate amounts of supplies and equipment, fails to provide supplies or equipment that meet the project requirements, or fails to provide supplies when scheduled, we may be required to source the supplies or equipment at a higher price or may be required to delay performance of the project. The additional cost or project delays could negatively impact project profitability.
Failure of a subcontractor or supplier to comply with laws, rules or regulations could negatively affect our reputation and our business.
We periodically enter into joint ventures which require satisfactory performance by our venture partners of their obligations. The failure of our joint venture partners to perform their joint venture obligations could impose additional financial and performance obligations on us that could result in reduced profit or losses for us with respect to the joint venture.
We periodically enter into various joint ventures and teaming arrangements where control may be shared with unaffiliated third parties. At times, we also participate in joint ventures where we are not a controlling party. In such instances, we may have limited control over joint venture decisions and actions, including internal controls and financial reporting which may have an impact on our business. If our joint venture partners fail to satisfactorily perform their joint venture obligations, the joint venture may be unable to adequately perform or deliver its contracted services. Under these circumstances, we may be required to make additional investments or provide additional services to ensure the adequate performance and delivery of the contracted services. These additional obligations could result in reduced profit and may impact our reputation in the industry.
We may experience delays and defaults in client payments and we may pay our suppliers and subcontractors before receiving payment from our customers for the related services, which could result in an adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
We use subcontractors and material suppliers for portions of certain work, and our customers pay us for those related services. If we pay our suppliers and subcontractors for materials purchased and work performed for customers who fail to pay us, or such customers delay paying us for the related work or materials, we could experience a material adverse effect on our business. In addition, if customers fail to pay us for work we perform, we could experience a material adverse effect on our business.
Our inability to recover on contract modifications against project owners for payment or performance could negatively affect our business.
We periodically present contract modifications to our clients for changes in contract specifications or requirements. We consider unapproved change orders to be contract modifications for which customers have not agreed to both scope and price. We consider claims to be contract modifications for which we seek, or will seek, to collect from customers, or others, for customer-caused changes in contract specifications or design, or other customer-related causes of unanticipated additional contract costs on which there is no agreement with customers. Claims can also be caused by non-customer-caused changes, such as rain or other weather delays. In some cases, settlement of contract modifications may not occur until after completion of work under the contract. A failure to promptly document and negotiate a recovery for contract modifications could have a negative impact on our cash flows, and an overall ability to recover contract modifications could have a negative impact on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
For some projects we may guarantee a timely completion or provide a performance guarantee which could result in additional costs, such as liquidated damages, to cover our obligations.
In our fixed-price and unit-price contracts we may provide a project completion date, and in some of our projects we may commit that the project will achieve specific performance standards. Failure to complete the project as scheduled or at the contracted performance standards could result in additional costs or penalties, including liquidated damages, and such amounts could exceed expected project profit.
A significant portion of our business depends on our ability to provide surety bonds, and we may be unable to compete for or work on certain projects if we are not able to obtain the necessary surety bonds.
Our contracts frequently require that we provide payment and performance bonds to our customers. Under standard terms in the surety market, sureties issue or continue bonds on a project-by-project basis and can decline to issue bonds at any time or require the posting of additional collateral as a condition to issuing, or renewing bonds.
Current or future market conditions, as well as changes in our surety providers’ assessments of our operating and financial risk, could cause our surety providers to decline to issue or renew, or to substantially reduce, the availability of bonds for our work and could increase our bonding costs. These actions could be taken on short notice. If our surety providers were to limit or eliminate our access to bonding, our alternatives would include seeking bonding
capacity from other sureties, finding more business that does not require bonds and posting other forms of collateral for project performance, such as letters of credit or cash. We may be unable to secure these alternatives in a timely manner, on acceptable terms, or at all. Accordingly, if we were to experience an interruption or reduction in the availability of bonding capacity, we may be unable to compete for, or work on certain projects.
Our bonding requirements may limit our ability to incur indebtedness, which would limit our ability to refinance our existing credit facilities or to execute our business plan.
Our ability to obtain surety bonds depends upon various factors including our capitalization, working capital, tangible net worth and amount of our indebtedness. In order to obtain required bonds, we may be limited in our ability to incur additional indebtedness that may be needed to refinance our existing credit facilities upon maturity, to complete acquisitions, and to otherwise execute our business plans.
We may be unable to win some new contracts if we cannot provide clients with letters of credit.
For many of our clients surety bonds provide an adequate form of security, but for some clients security in the form of a letter of credit may be required. While we have capacity for letters of credit under our credit facility, the amount required by a client may be in excess of our credit limit. Any such amount would be issued at the sole discretion of our lenders. Failure to provide a letter of credit when required by a client may result in our inability to compete for, win, or retain a project.
During the ordinary course of our business, we may become subject to material lawsuits or indemnity claims.
We have in the past been, and may in the future be, named as a defendant in lawsuits, claims and other legal proceedings during the ordinary course of our business. These actions may seek, among other things, compensation for alleged personal injury, workers’ compensation, employment discrimination, breach of contract, cyber-security and related incidents, property damage, punitive damages, and civil penalties, or other losses or injunctive or declaratory relief. In addition, we generally indemnify our customers for claims related to the services we provide and actions we take under our contracts with them, and, in some instances, we may be allocated risk through our contract terms for actions by our customers, or other third parties. Because our services in certain instances may be integral to the operation and performance of our customers’ infrastructure, we may become subject to lawsuits or claims for any failure of the systems on which we work, even if our services are not the cause of such failures, and we could be subject to civil and criminal liabilities to the extent that our services contributed to any property damage, personal injury or system failure. The outcome of any of these lawsuits, claims or legal proceedings could result in significant costs and diversion of management’s attention from the business. Payments of significant amounts, even if reserved, could adversely affect our reputation, our cash flows, and our business.
We are self-insured up to certain limits.
Although we maintain insurance policies with respect to employer’s liability, general liability, auto and workers compensation claims, those policies are subject to deductibles or self-insured retention amounts up to $1,000,000 per occurrence. In addition, for our employees not part of a collective bargaining agreement, we provide employee health care benefit plans. Our primary health insurance plan is subject to a deductible of $425,000 per individual claim per year.
Our insurance policies include various coverage requirements, including the requirement to give appropriate notice. If we fail to comply with these requirements, our coverage could be denied.
Losses under our insurance programs are accrued based upon our estimates of the ultimate liability for claims reported and an estimate of claims incurred but not reported, with assistance from third-party actuaries. Insurance liabilities are difficult to assess and estimate due to unknown factors, including the severity of an injury, the extent of damage, the determination of our liability in proportion to other parties and the number of incidents not reported. The accruals are based upon known facts and historical trends.
We renew our insurance policies on an annual basis, and therefore deductibles and levels of insurance coverage may change in future periods. In addition, insurers may cancel our coverage or determine to exclude certain items from coverage, or we may elect not to obtain certain types or incremental levels of insurance based on the potential benefits
considered relative to the cost of such insurance, or coverage may not be available at reasonable and competitive rates. In any such event, our overall risk exposure would increase, which could negatively affect our results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.
Our business is labor intensive. If we are unable to attract and retain qualified managers and skilled employees, our operating costs may increase.
Our business is labor intensive and our ability to maintain our productivity and profitability may be limited by our ability to employ, train and retain skilled personnel necessary to meet our requirements. We may not be able to maintain an adequately skilled labor force necessary to operate efficiently and to support our growth strategy. We have from time-to-time experienced, and may in the future experience, shortages of certain types of qualified personnel. For example, periodically there are shortages of engineers, project managers, field supervisors, and other skilled workers capable of working on and supervising the construction of underground, electric utilities, heavy civil and industrial facilities, as well as providing engineering services. The supply of experienced engineers, project managers, field supervisors, journeyman linemen and other skilled workers may not be sufficient to meet current or expected demand. The beginning of new, large-scale infrastructure projects, or increased competition for workers currently available to us, could affect our business, even if we are not awarded such projects. Labor shortages, or increased labor costs could impair our ability to maintain our business or grow our revenue. If we are unable to hire employees with the requisite skills, we may also be forced to incur significant training expenses.
Our unionized workforce may commence work stoppages or impact our ability to complete certain acquisitions, which could adversely affect our operations.
As of December 31, 2023, approximately 30.6% of our hourly employees, primarily consisting of field laborers, were covered by collective bargaining agreements. Although the majority of these agreements prohibit strikes and work stoppages, we cannot be certain that strikes or work stoppages will not occur in the future. Strikes or work stoppages would adversely impact our relationships with our customers and could have an adverse effect on our business.
Our ability to complete future acquisitions could be adversely affected because of our union status for a variety of reasons. For instance, in certain geographic areas, our union agreements may be incompatible with the union agreements of a business we want to acquire, and some businesses may not want to become affiliated with a union company.
Withdrawal from multiemployer pension plans associated with our unionized workforce could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.
Our collective bargaining agreements generally require that we participate with other companies in multiemployer pension plans. To the extent those plans are underfunded, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (“ERISA”), as amended by the Multiemployer Pension Plan Amendments Act of 1980 (“MEPA”), may subject us to substantial liabilities under those plans if we withdraw from them, or if they are terminated. In addition, the Pension Protection Act of 2006 added new funding rules for multiemployer plans that are classified as endangered, seriously endangered or critical status. For a plan in critical status, additional required contributions and benefit reductions may apply if a plan is determined to be underfunded, which could adversely affect our financial condition or results of operations. For plans in critical status, we may be required to make additional contributions, generally in the form of surcharges on contributions otherwise required. Participation in those plans with high funding levels could adversely affect our results of operations, financial condition or cash flows if we are not able to adequately mitigate these costs.
The amount of the withdrawal liability legislated by ERISA and MEPA varies for every pension plan to which we contribute. For each plan, our potential liability is the total unfunded vested benefits of the plan multiplied by a fraction: the numerator of the fraction is the sum of our contributions to the plan for the past ten years and the denominator is the sum of all contributions made by all employers for the past ten years. For some pension plans to which we contribute, the total unfunded vested benefits for the entire plan could be in the billions of dollars. If we cannot reduce the alleged fractional exposure through exemptions or negotiations, the withdrawal from a plan could have a material adverse impact on our business.
We depend on key personnel and we may not be able to operate and grow our business effectively if we lose the services of any of our key persons or are unable to attract qualified and skilled personnel in the future.
We are dependent upon the efforts of our key personnel, and our ability to retain them and hire other qualified employees. The loss of our executive officers, or other key personnel could affect our ability to run our business effectively. Competition for senior management is intense, and we may not be able to retain our personnel. The loss of any key person requires the remaining key personnel to divert immediate and substantial attention to seeking a replacement, as well as to performing the departed person’s responsibilities until a replacement is found. In addition, as some of our key persons approach retirement age, we need to provide for smooth transitions. If we fail to find a suitable replacement for any departing executive or senior officer on a timely basis, such departure could adversely affect our ability to operate and grow our business.
If we fail to integrate acquisitions successfully, we may experience operational challenges and risks which may have an adverse effect on our business.
As part of our growth strategy, we intend to acquire companies that expand, complement or diversify our business. Acquisitions may expose us to operational challenges and risks, including, among others:
● The diversion of management’s attention from the day-to-day operations of the combined company;
● Managing a significantly larger company than before completion of an acquisition;
● The assimilation of new employees and the integration of business cultures;
● Training and facilitating our internal control processes within the acquired organization;
● Retaining key personnel;
● The integration of information, accounting, finance, sales, billing, payroll and regulatory compliance systems;
● Challenges in keeping existing customers and obtaining new customers;
● Challenges in combining service offerings and sales and marketing activities;
● The assumption of unknown liabilities of the acquired business for which there are inadequate reserves;
● The potential impairment of acquired goodwill and intangible assets; and
● The inability to enforce covenants not to compete.
Failure to effectively manage the integration process could adversely impact our business, financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.
We may incur higher costs on equipment necessary for our operations.
A significant portion of our contracts is built utilizing our own construction equipment rather than rented equipment. To the extent that we are unable to buy or lease equipment necessary for a project, either due to a lack of available funding, or equipment shortages in the marketplace, we may be forced to rent equipment on a short-term basis, or to find alternative ways to perform the work without the benefit of equipment ideally suited for the job, which could increase the costs of completing the project. We often bid for work knowing that we will have to rent equipment on a short-term basis, and we include the equipment rental rates in our bid. If market rates for rental equipment increase between the time of bid submission and project execution, our margins for the project may be reduced. In addition, our equipment requires regular maintenance, which we generally provide through our own repair facilities. If we are unable to maintain the equipment in our fleet, we may be forced to obtain additional third-party repair services at a higher cost or be unable to bid on contracts.
Our business may be affected by difficult work sites and environments which may adversely affect our ability to procure materials and labor.
We perform our work under a variety of conditions, including, but not limited to, difficult and hard to reach terrain, difficult site conditions, and busy urban centers, where delivery of materials and availability of labor may be impacted. Performing work under these conditions can slow our progress, potentially causing us to incur contractual liability to our customers. These difficult conditions may also cause us to incur additional, unanticipated costs that we might not be able to pass on to our customers.
We may incur liabilities or suffer negative financial or reputational impacts relating to health and safety matters.
Our operations are subject to extensive laws and regulations relating to the maintenance of safe conditions in the workplace. While we have invested, and will continue to invest, substantial resources in our environmental, health and safety programs, our industry involves a high degree of operational risk and there can be no assurance that we will avoid significant liability exposure. Although we have taken what we believe are appropriate precautions, we have suffered fatalities in the past and may suffer additional fatalities in the future. Serious accidents, including fatalities, may subject us to substantial penalties, civil litigation or criminal prosecution. Claims for damages to persons, including claims for bodily injury or loss of life, could result in substantial costs and liabilities, which could materially and adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. In addition, if our safety record were to substantially deteriorate over time or we were to suffer substantial penalties or criminal prosecution for violation of health and safety regulations, our customers could cancel our contracts and not award us future business.
Disruptions to our operational systems could adversely impact our operations, our ability to report financial results and our business.
We rely on computer, information and communication technology and related systems to operate our business and to protect confidential, sensitive company, customer and partner information. Our computer and communications systems, and consequently our operations, could be damaged or interrupted by cyber-attacks and physical security risks, such as natural disasters, loss of power, communications failures, acts of war, acts of terrorism, computer viruses, physical or electronic break-ins and actions by hackers and cyber-terrorists. Any of these, or similar, events could cause system disruptions, delays and loss of critical information, delays in processing transactions and delays in the reporting of financial information.
Security breaches, cyber security attacks or other disruptions to our information technology systems and networks could adversely impact our operations or compromise the confidentiality of private customer data or our own proprietary information.
Any cyber security attack (including denial of service attacks, ransomware, phishing attacks, payment fraud or others) that affects our facilities, our systems, our partners, our customers or any of our financial data could have a material adverse effect on our business. We rely on information technology systems, some of which are managed by third parties, to process, transmit and store electronic information and to manage or support a variety of our business processes, activities and services. Additionally, we collect and store sensitive data, including intellectual property and proprietary business information, as well as personally identifiable information of our customers and employees, in data centers and on information technology networks (including networks that may be controlled or maintained by third parties). The secure operation of these systems and products, and the processing and maintenance of the information processed by these systems and products, is critical to our business operations and strategy. Further, customers using our systems rely on the security of our infrastructure, including hardware, software and other elements provided by third parties, to ensure the reliability of our products and the protection of their data. We also face the risk of operational disruption, failure, termination or capacity constraints of any of the third parties that facilitate our business activities, including vendors, service providers, suppliers, customers, counterparties or other financial intermediaries. Such third parties who provide us services or with whom we communicate could also be the source of a cyberattack on, or breach of, our operational systems, network, data or infrastructure. Despite our security measures and business continuity plans, our information technology systems and networked and connected products may be vulnerable to damage, disruptions or shutdowns caused by attacks by hackers, computer viruses, or breaches due to errors or malfeasance by employees, contractors or others who have access to these systems and products. Any of these events could result in, among other things, the loss of proprietary data, interruptions or delays in our business operations and damage to our reputation.
We have experienced cyber security threats, such as viruses and attacks targeting our systems, and expect the frequency and sophistication of such incidents will continue to increase. Such prior events have not had a material impact on our financial condition, results of operations or liquidity. However, future threats or existing threats of which we are not yet aware could cause harm to our business and our reputation, disrupt our operations, expose us to potential liability, regulatory actions and loss of business, and impact our results of operations materially. We also currently maintain a cyber insurance policy; however, such insurance coverage may not be adequate to cover all the costs related to cyber security attacks or disruptions resulting from such events.
While we have taken steps to mitigate persistent and continuously evolving cyber security threats by implementing network security and internal control measures, implementing policies and procedures for managing risk to our information systems, periodically testing our information technology systems, and conducting employee training on cyber security, a system or network failure or data security breach could have negative consequences for our company, customers, or partners and adversely affect our business. Furthermore, the continuing and evolving threat of cyber-attacks has resulted in increased regulatory focus on prevention. To the extent we face increased regulatory requirements, we may be required to expend significant additional resources to meet such requirements.
We may need additional capital in the future for working capital, capital expenditures or acquisitions, and we may not be able to access capital on favorable terms, or at all, which would impair our ability to operate our business or achieve our growth objectives.
Our ability to generate cash is essential for the funding of our operations and the servicing of our debt. If existing cash balances together with the borrowing capacity under our credit facilities were not sufficient to make future investments, make acquisitions or provide needed working capital, we may require financing from other sources. Our ability to obtain such additional financing in the future will depend on a number of factors including prevailing capital market conditions, conditions in our industry, and our operating results. These factors may affect our ability to arrange additional financing on terms that are acceptable to us. If additional funds were not available on acceptable terms, we may not be able to make future investments, take advantage of acquisitions or pursue other opportunities.
Risks Related Primarily to the Financial Accounting of our Business
Our financial results are based upon estimates and assumptions that may differ from actual results.
In preparing our consolidated annual and quarterly financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles, many estimates and assumptions are used in determining the reported revenue, costs and expenses recognized during the periods presented, and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities known to exist as of the date of the financial statements. These estimates and assumptions must be made because certain information that is used in the preparation of our financial statements cannot be calculated with a high degree of precision from data available, is dependent on future events, or is not capable of being readily calculated based on generally accepted methodologies. Often, these estimates are particularly difficult to determine, and we must exercise significant judgment. Estimates may be used in our assessments of the allowance for doubtful accounts, useful lives of property and equipment, fair value assumptions in analyzing goodwill and long-lived asset impairments, self-insured claims liabilities, accounting for revenue recognized over time, and provisions for income taxes. Actual results could differ materially from the estimates and assumptions that we used.
Our accounting for revenue recognized over time could result in a reduction or elimination of previously reported revenue and profit.
For contracts where scope is adequately defined, and therefore we can reasonably estimate total contract value, we recognize revenue over time as work is completed because of the continuous transfer of control to the customer (typically using an input measure such as costs incurred to date relative to total estimated costs at completion to measure progress). Accounting for long-term contracts involves the use of various techniques to estimate total transaction price and costs. For long-term contracts, transaction price, estimated cost at completion and total costs incurred to date are used to calculate revenue earned. Unforeseen events and circumstances can alter the estimate of the costs and potential profit associated with a particular contract. Total estimated costs, and thus contract revenue and income, can be impacted by changes in productivity, scheduling, the unit cost of labor, subcontracts, materials and equipment. Additionally, external factors such as weather, client needs, client delays in providing permits and approvals, labor availability, governmental regulation, and politics may affect the progress of a project’s completion, and thus the timing of revenue recognition. Actual results could differ from estimated amounts and could result in a reduction or elimination of previously recognized earnings. In certain circumstances, it is possible that such adjustments could be significant and could have an adverse effect on our business.
Our reported results of operations could be adversely affected as a result of impairments of goodwill or other identifiable intangible assets.
When we acquire a business, we record an asset called “goodwill” for the excess amount we pay for the business over the net fair value of the tangible and identifiable intangible assets of the business we acquire. At December 31, 2023, our balance sheet included goodwill of $857.7 million and intangible assets of $227.6 million resulting from previous acquisitions. Fair value is determined using a combination of the discounted cash flow, market multiple and market capitalization valuation approaches. Under current accounting rules, goodwill and other identifiable intangible assets that have indefinite useful lives cannot be amortized, but instead must be tested at least annually for impairment, while identifiable intangible assets that have finite useful lives are amortized over their useful lives. Significant judgment is required in completing these tests, as described in Item 7 “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations-Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates- Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Any impairment of goodwill, or identifiable intangible assets recorded in connection with the various acquisitions, or for any future acquisitions, would negatively impact our results of operations.
Compliance with and changes in tax laws could adversely affect our performance.
We are subject to extensive tax liabilities imposed by multiple jurisdictions, including federal, state, local and international jurisdictions. New tax laws, treaties and regulations and changes in existing tax laws, treaties and regulations are continuously being enacted or proposed and could result in a different tax rate on our earnings, which could have a material impact on our earnings and cash flow from operations. In addition, significant judgment is required in determining our provision for income taxes, as described in Item 7 “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations-Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates-Income Taxes” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. In the ordinary course of our business, there are many transactions and calculations where the ultimate tax determination is uncertain. We are regularly subject to audits by tax authorities, and our tax estimates and tax positions could be materially affected by many factors including the final outcome of tax audits and related litigation, the introduction of new tax accounting standards, legislation, regulations and related interpretations, our mix of earnings, the realizability of deferred tax assets and changes in uncertain tax positions. A significant increase in our tax rate could have a material adverse effect on our profitability and liquidity.
Our variable rate indebtedness subjects us to interest rate risk.
Borrowings under our revolving credit facility and term loan bear interest at variable rates and expose us to interest rate risk. From time to time, we may use certain derivative instruments to hedge our exposure to variable interest rates. As of December 31, 2023, $300.0 million of our variable rate debt outstanding was economically hedged. The remaining $574.1 million of variable rate debt was unhedged. If interest rates increase, our debt service obligations on the unhedged portion of our variable rate debt will increase even if the amount borrowed remains the same, and our net income and cash flows, will decrease correspondingly. Based on our variable rate debt outstanding as of December 31, 2023, a 1.0% increase or decrease in interest rates would change annual interest expense by approximately $5.7 million.
Risks Related to our Common Stock
Our common stock is subject to potential dilution to our stockholders.
As part of our acquisition strategy, we have issued and used shares of common stock as a part of contingent earn-out consideration, which have resulted in dilution to our stockholders. Our Certificate of Incorporation permits us to issue up to 90.0 million shares of common stock of which approximately 53.4 million were outstanding at December 31, 2023. While New York Stock Exchange rules require that we obtain stockholder approval to issue more than 20% additional shares, stockholder approval is not required below that level. In addition, we can issue shares of preferred stock which could cause further dilution to the stockholder, resulting in reduced net income and cash flow available to common stockholders.
In 2022, our stockholders adopted the 2022 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the “ESPP”), under which eligible full-time employees can purchase shares of our common stock at a discount on a semi-annual basis. The number of shares authorized and available for purchase under the ESPP is 1.0 million. As of December 31, 2023, there were
977,000 shares of common stock remaining available for purchase. Additional purchases made under the ESPP will have the effect of diluting our earnings per share and stockholders’ percentage of ownership.
In 2023, our stockholders adopted our 2023 Equity Incentive Plan (“2023 Equity Plan”). The 2023 Equity Plan replaced a previous plan. The Equity Plan authorized the Board of Directors to issue equity awards totaling 6.5 million shares of our common stock. As of December 31, 2023, there were 6.2 million shares of common stock remaining available for issuance under our 2023 Equity Plan. Equity awards made to our directors and employees will have the effect of diluting our earnings per share and stockholders’ percentage of ownership.
Delaware law and our charter documents may impede or discourage a takeover or change in control.
As a Delaware corporation, anti-takeover provisions may impose an impediment to the ability of others to acquire control of us, even if a change of control would be of benefit to our stockholders. In addition, certain provisions of our Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws also may impose an impediment or discourage others from a takeover. These provisions include: restrictions on the ability of a stockholder to call a special meeting, or nominate a director for election and our Board of Directors’ ability to authorize the issuance of preferred shares.
These types of provisions may limit the ability of stockholders to obtain a premium for their shares.

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ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
ITEM 1B.
UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
None.

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ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
ITEM 2.
PROPERTIES
Facilities
We lease our executive offices in Dallas, Texas and own and lease other facilities throughout the United States and Canada. Our facilities include offices, production yards, maintenance shops, and training and education facilities that are used in our operations. As of December 31, 2023, we owned 54 of our facilities and leased the remainder. We believe that our facilities are adequate to meet our current and foreseeable requirements.
Property, Plant and Equipment
The construction industry is capital intensive, and we expect to continue making capital expenditures to meet anticipated needs for our services. In 2023, capital expenditures were approximately $103.0 million. Total construction equipment purchases in 2023 were $34.0 million.
We believe the ownership or long-term leasing of equipment is generally preferable to renting to ensure the equipment is available as needed. In addition, this approach has historically resulted in lower overall equipment costs. All equipment is subject to scheduled maintenance to help ensure reliability. Maintenance facilities exist at most of our regional offices, as well as on-site on major projects to properly service and repair equipment. Major equipment not currently utilized is rented to third parties or sold whenever possible.

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ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
ITEM 3.
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Legal Proceedings
For information regarding legal proceedings, see Note 12 - “Commitments and Contingencies” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, which is incorporated herein by reference.

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ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURE
ITEM 4.
MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES
Not applicable.
PART II

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ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY
ITEM 5.
MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
Market Information
Our common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “PRIM”. We had outstanding 53,436,884 shares of common stock and 439 stockholders of record as of February 19, 2024. These stockholders of record include depositories that hold shares of stock for brokerage firms, which in turn, hold shares of stock for numerous beneficial owners.
Dividends
We have paid consecutive quarterly cash dividends since 2008, and currently expect that comparable cash dividends will continue to be paid for the foreseeable future. The declaration and payment of future dividends is contingent upon our revenue and earnings, capital requirements, and general financial conditions, as well as contractual restrictions and other considerations deemed to be relevant by the Board of Directors.
Performance Graph
The following Performance Graph and related information shall not be deemed to be filed with the SEC, nor shall such information be incorporated by reference into any future filing under the Securities Act of 1933 or Securities Exchange Act of 1934, each as amended, except to the extent that we specifically incorporate it by reference into such filing.
The following graph compares the cumulative total return to holders of our common stock during the five-year period from December 31, 2018, and in each quarter up through December 31, 2023. The return is compared to the cumulative total return during the same period achieved on the Standard & Poor’s 500 Stock Index (the “S&P 500”) and a peer group index selected by our management that includes five public companies within our industry (the “Peer Group”). The companies in the Peer Group were selected because they comprise a broad group of publicly held corporations, each of which has some operations similar to ours. When taken as a whole, management believes the Peer Group more closely resembles our total business than any individual company in the group. The Peer Group is composed of MasTec, Inc., MYR Group, Inc., Dycom Industries, Inc., Sterling Construction Company, Inc. and Granite Construction, Inc. The Peer Group was modified in 2023 to replace Quanta Services, Inc. and Matrix Service Company with Dycom Industries, Inc. and MYR Group, Inc. as the overall composition of our business has changed and we believe this new peer group more closely resembles us from both an operations and market capitalization perspective.
The returns are calculated assuming that an investment with a value of $100 was made in our common stock, the S&P 500 and the Peer Group as of December 31, 2018. All dividends were reinvested in additional shares of common stock. The Peer Group investment is weighted based on the market capitalization of each company at the measurement period. The graph lines merely connect the measuring dates and do not reflect fluctuations between those dates. The stock performance shown on the graph is not intended to be indicative of future stock performance.
COMPARISON OF DECEMBER 31, 2018 THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2023
CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN
Among Primoris Services Corporation (“PRIM”), the S&P 500 and the Peer Group

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ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
ITEM 6. [RESERVED]

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ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
ITEM 7.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
You should read the following discussion of our financial condition and results of operations in conjunction with the financial statements and the notes to those statements included in Item 8 in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. This discussion includes forward-looking statements that are based on current expectations and are subject to uncertainties and unknown or changed circumstances. For a further discussion, please see “Forward-Looking Statements” at the beginning of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Our actual results may differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of many factors, including those risks inherent with our business as discussed in “Item 1A Risk Factors”.
The following discussion starts with an overview of our business and a discussion of trends, including seasonality, that affect our industry. That is followed by an overview of the critical accounting policies and estimates that we use to prepare our financial statements. Next we discuss our results of operations and liquidity and capital resources, including our off-balance sheet arrangements and contractual obligations. We conclude with a discussion of our outlook and backlog.
Introduction
We are one of the leading providers of infrastructure services operating mainly in the United States and Canada. We provide a wide range of construction services, maintenance, replacement, fabrication and engineering services to a diversified base of customers.
Through the end of 2022, we segregated our business into three reportable segments: the Utilities segment, the Energy/Renewables segment, and the Pipeline segment. In the first quarter of 2023, we changed our reportable segments in connection with the realignment of our internal organization and management structure. The segment changes reflect the focus of our Chief Operating Decision Maker (“CODM”) on the range of services we provide to our end user markets. Our CODM regularly reviews our operating and financial performance based on these new segments.
The current reportable segments include the Utilities segment and the Energy segment, which is made up of our former Energy/Renewables and Pipeline Services segments. The Utilities segment operates throughout the United States and specializes in a range of services, including the installation and maintenance of new and existing natural gas and electric utility distribution and transmission systems, and communication systems.
The Energy segment operates throughout the United States and in Canada and specializes in a range of services that include engineering, procurement, and construction, retrofits, highway and bridge construction, demolition, site work, soil stabilization, mass excavation, flood control, upgrades, repairs, outages, pipeline construction and maintenance, pipeline integrity services, and maintenance services for entities in the renewable energy and energy storage, renewable fuels, and petroleum and petrochemical industries, as well as state departments of transportation.
We have completed major underground and industrial projects for a number of large natural gas transmission and petrochemical companies in the United States, major electrical and gas projects for a number of large utility companies in the United States, significant renewable energy projects for energy companies, as well as projects for our engineering customers. We enter into a large number of contracts each year, and the projects can vary in length from daily work orders to as long as 36 months, and occasionally longer, for completion on larger projects. Although we have not been dependent upon any one customer in any year, a small number of customers tend to constitute a substantial portion of our total revenue in any given year.
We generate revenue under a range of contracting types, including fixed-price, unit-price, time and material, and cost reimbursable plus fee contracts, each of which has a different risk profile. For the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021, $3.9 billion, $2.7 billion, and $2.1 billion, respectively of our revenue is derived from contracts where scope is adequately defined, and therefore we can reasonably estimate total contract value. For these contracts, revenue is recognized over time as work is completed because of the continuous transfer of control to the customer (typically using an input measure such as costs incurred to date relative to total estimated costs at completion to measure progress). For certain contracts, where scope is not adequately defined and we can’t reasonably estimate total contract value, revenue is recognized either on an input basis, based on contract costs incurred as defined within the respective
contracts, or an output basis based on units completed. Costs to obtain contracts are generally not significant and are expensed in the period incurred.
The classification of revenue and gross profit for segment reporting purposes can at times require judgment on the part of management. Our segments may perform services across industries or perform joint services for customers in multiple industries. To determine reportable segment gross profit, certain allocations, including allocations of shared and indirect costs, such as facility costs, equipment costs and indirect operating expenses were made.
Acquisition of PLH
On August 1, 2022, we acquired PLH Group, Inc. (“PLH”) in an all-cash transaction valued at approximately $429.0 million, net of cash acquired. PLH is a utility-focused infrastructure services company with concentrations in key fast-growing regions of the United States. The transaction directly aligns with our strategic focus on higher-growth, higher margin markets and expands our capabilities in the utility markets including power delivery, communications, and gas utilities. The total purchase price was funded through a combination of borrowings under our Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of August 1, 2022, which increased our term loan to an aggregate principal amount of $945.0 million (the “ New Term Loan”) and borrowings under our revolving credit facility, in which the lenders agreed to make loans on a revolving basis from time to time and to issue letters of credit for up to $325.0 million (the “Revolving Credit Facility”). We incorporated the majority of the PLH operations into our Utilities segment with the remaining operations going to our Energy segment.
Acquisition of B Comm Holdco, LLC
On June 8, 2022, we acquired B Comm Holdco, LLC (“B Comm”) in an all-cash transaction of approximately $36.0 million, net of cash acquired. B Comm was incorporated into our Utilities segment and is a provider of maintenance, repair, upgrade and installation services to the communications markets. The transaction directly aligns with the strategy to grow our Master Services Agreement (“MSA”) revenue base and expand our communication services within the utility markets. The total purchase price was funded with borrowings under our Revolving Credit Facility.
Acquisition of Alberta Screw Piles, Ltd.
On March 1, 2022, we acquired Alberta Screw Piles, Ltd. (“ASP”) for a cash price of approximately $4.1 million. In addition, the sellers could receive a contingent earnout payment of up to $3.2 million based on achievement of certain operating targets over the one year periods ending March 1, 2023 and March 1, 2024, respectively. We incorporated the operations of ASP into our Energy segment.
Acquisition of Future Infrastructure Holdings, LLC.
On January 15, 2021, we acquired Future Infrastructure Holdings, LLC (“FIH”) for approximately $604.7 million, net of cash acquired. FIH was incorporated into our Utilities segment and is a provider of non-discretionary maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation services to the communications, regulated gas utility, and infrastructure markets. FIH furthers our strategic plan to expand our service lines, enter new markets, and grow our MSA revenue base. The transaction directly aligns with our strategy to grow in large, higher growth, higher margin markets, and expands our utility services capabilities. The total purchase price was funded through a combination of existing cash balances, borrowings under our Term Loan facility, and borrowings under our Revolving Credit Facility.
Business Environment
We believe there are growth opportunities across the industries we serve and we continue to have a positive long-term outlook. Although not without risks and challenges, including those discussed below and in Forward-Looking Statements and included in Item 1A. Risk Factors, we believe, with our full-service operations, broad geographic reach, financial position and technical expertise, we are well positioned to capitalize on opportunities and trends in our industries.
We have seen and continue to anticipate potential changes to the already stringent regulatory and environmental requirements for many of our clients’ infrastructure projects, which may improve the timing and certainty of the projects. While permitting and other regulatory challenges create uncertainty as to the timing of some of our opportunities, we continue to see bidding activity for numerous midstream pipeline projects. We believe that we have the financial and operational strength to meet the challenge of either short-term delays or the impact of significant increases in work. We continue to be optimistic about both short and longer-term opportunities. Our current view of the outlook for our major end markets is as follows:
● Construction of alternative energy facilities, chemical processing facilities, renewable natural gas facilities, solar power facilities, wind farms, battery storage - We believe state and federal governments, investors and utilities remain committed to a changing fuel generation mix that continues to move toward more alternative energy sources. As this trend grows, along with the demand for power, we are seeing an increase in new power generation facilities powered by renewable energy sources, as well as energy storage systems. We are benefitting from the increased spending and long-term tax incentives in the Inflation Reduction Act (“IRA”) signed by the President in August of 2022. The IRA extends tax incentives for wind and solar facilities and includes provisions to support standalone battery energy storage systems. The long term extension of these credits and strong support of U.S. manufacturing has attracted a significant amount of new capital to finance renewable projects as well as to enhance the supply chain needed to meet increasing demand. Other trends we are seeing are major investments in industrial gases and agricultural chemicals. To the extent this dynamic continues, we anticipate continued engineering, procurement, and construction opportunities, primarily benefitting our Energy segment.
● Communications construction opportunities - We believe the federal government remains committed to improving or expanding broadband communications access. The IRA and other Federal and State programs provide critical funding to help construct and improve the infrastructure required to provide sufficient broadband access to areas that have historically had lower access to broadband services. We expect these opportunities, as well as ongoing spending by communications companies, to benefit our Utilities segment.
● Power Delivery - We are experiencing strong tailwinds in our power delivery business as the industry continues to invest in grid resiliency, modernization, renewable generation integration, and the push for electrification. Our national position in this specific market allows for scalable coverage across the industry. Electric distribution undergrounding initiatives with clients in our key markets has been, and will continue to be, a strong opportunity for us as we see utilities customers continue to invest in grid reliability. Additionally, we are experiencing new opportunities as utilities providers invest in renewable energy and upgrade their transmission infrastructure.
● Inspection, maintenance and replacement of electric utility infrastructure - We expect the demand for electricity in the United States to grow over the long-term and believe enhancements to the electric utility infrastructure are needed to efficiently serve the power needs of the future. Renewable generation will require substations and transmission lines to connect the new generation sources to customers. In addition, current federal legislation also requires the power industry to meet federal reliability standards for its transmission and distribution systems. We also expect to benefit from the spending authorized in the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act intended to improve the electric grid. These opportunities, as well as ongoing electric utility repair and maintenance opportunities are expected to benefit our Utilities segment.
● Inspection, maintenance and replacement of gas utility infrastructure - We expect that ongoing safety enhancements to gas pipeline systems and the gas utility infrastructure will provide continuing opportunities for our Utilities segment. We also expect that ongoing gas utility repair and maintenance opportunities will continue.
● Construction of natural gas-fired power plants and industrial plants - We expect continued construction opportunities for both base-load and peak shaving power plants; however, we are aware that environmental concerns over gas fired power plants may impact the timing and location of near-term construction opportunities in certain states. We believe that based on continuing population growth, the intermittency of renewable power resources, and the environmental requirements limiting using ocean water for cooling, gas power plants will be needed in spite of vocal opposition to these “non-green” generation sources. In addition, the generally historically low price of natural gas could result in the continued replacement of coal-fired power plants and the conversion and expansion at chemical plants and industrial facilities in other parts of the United States. These opportunities would benefit our Energy segment.
● Construction of petroleum, natural gas, natural gas liquid, and other liquid pipelines - We expect that the volatility in the price of oil could reduce activities in most, if not all of the shale basins. In addition, the ability of our customers to obtain permits for projects could impact the demand for our services, especially for larger interstate pipelines. However, production from the shale formations and increased demand for exporting liquified natural gas (“LNG”) could strain the current capacity limitations between production and processing locations which would provide opportunities for our Energy segment.
● Inspection, maintenance and replacement of pipeline infrastructure - We believe that regulatory measures around the frequency or stringency of pipeline integrity testing requirements provides growth opportunity in our Energy segment. Regulatory requirements continue to mandate or require our customers to test, inspect, repair, maintain and replace pipeline infrastructure to ensure that it operates safely, reliably and in an environmentally conscious manner. In addition, permitting challenges associated with construction of new pipelines can make existing pipeline infrastructure more valuable, motivating owners to extend the useful life of existing pipeline assets through maintenance and integrity initiatives. As a result, we expect demand to continue to grow for our pipeline integrity services.
Material Trends and Uncertainties
We generate our revenue from construction and engineering projects, as well as from providing a variety of infrastructure services. We depend in part on spending by companies in the communications, gas and electric utilities, energy, chemical, and pipeline industries, as well as state departments of transportation. Over the past several years, each segment has benefited from demand for more efficient and more environmentally friendly energy and power facilities, more reliable gas and electric utility infrastructure, upgraded and expanded local highway and bridge needs, and from the activity level in the pipeline industry. However, periodically, each of these industries and government agencies is adversely affected by macroeconomic conditions. Economic and other factors outside of our control may affect the amount and size of contracts we are awarded in any particular period.
We actively monitor the impact of the dynamic macroeconomic environment, including the impact of inflation and the instability in the banking sector, on all aspects of our business. We have experienced increased fuel and labor costs and anticipate that elevated levels of cost inflation could persist in 2024. In an effort to mitigate the impacts of inflation on our operations, we attempt to recover increases in the cost of labor, equipment, fuel and materials through price escalation provisions that allow us to adjust billing rates for certain major contracts annually; by considering the estimated effect of such increases when bidding or pricing new work; or by entering into back-to-back contracts with suppliers and subcontractors. However, the annual adjustment provided by certain contracts is typically subject to a cap and there can be an extended period of time between the impact of inflation on our costs and when billing rates are adjusted. In some cases, our actual cost increases have exceeded the contractual caps, and therefore negatively impacted our operations. We have been successful in renegotiating some of our major contracts to address the increased costs on future work and will continue to address this with our customers going forward.
Fluctuations in the market prices of oil, gas and other fuel sources have affected demand for our services. Volatility in the prices of oil, gas, and liquid natural gas that has occurred in the past few years could create uncertainty with respect to demand for our pipeline services, both in the near term and for future projects. While the construction of gathering lines within the oil shale formations may remain at lower levels for an extended period, we believe that over
time, the need for pipeline infrastructure for mid-stream and gas utility companies will result in a continuing need for our services.
The continuing changes in the regulatory environment have affected the demand for our services, either by increasing our work, delaying projects, or cancelling projects. For example, environmental laws and regulations have provided challenges to pipeline projects, resulting in delays or cancellations that impact the timing of revenue recognition. However, environmental laws and new pipeline regulations could increase the demand for our pipeline maintenance and integrity services. In addition, the regulatory environment in certain states has resulted in delays for the construction of gas-fired power plants. However, the increased demand for renewable resources is also creating demand for our infrastructure services, such as the need for battery storage and the construction of utility scale solar facilities.
We are exposed to certain market risks related to changes in interest rates. To monitor and manage these market risks, we have established risk management policies and procedures. Our Revolving Credit Facility and New Term Loan bear interest at a variable rate which exposes us to interest rate risk. From time to time, we may use certain derivative instruments to hedge our exposure to variable interest rates. As of December 31, 2023, $300.0 million of our variable rate debt outstanding was economically hedged. Based on our variable rate debt outstanding as of December 31, 2023, a 1.0% increase or decrease in interest rates would change annual interest expense by approximately $5.7 million.
Seasonality, Cyclicality and Variability
Our results of operations are subject to quarterly variations. Some of the variation is the result of weather, particularly rain, ice, snow, and named storms, which can impact our ability to perform infrastructure services. These seasonal impacts can affect revenue and profitability in all of our businesses. Any quarter can be affected either negatively, or positively by atypical weather patterns in any part of the country. In addition, demand for new projects in our Utilities segment tends to be lower during the early part of the calendar year due to clients’ internal budget cycles. As a result, we usually experience higher revenue and earnings in the second, third and fourth quarters of the year as compared to the first quarter.
Our project values range in size from several hundred dollars to several hundred million dollars. The bulk of our work is comprised of project sizes that average less than $3.0 million. We also perform construction projects which tend not to be seasonal, but can fluctuate from year to year based on customer timing, project duration, weather, and general economic conditions. Our business may be affected by declines, or delays in new projects, or by client project schedules. Because of the cyclical nature of our business, the financial results for any period may fluctuate from prior periods, and our financial condition and operating results may vary from quarter to quarter. Results from one quarter may not be indicative of our financial condition, or operating results for any other quarter, or for an entire year.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
General-The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements, and also affect the amounts of revenue and expenses reported for each period. These estimates and assumptions must be made because certain information that is used in the preparation of our financial statements cannot be calculated with a high degree of precision from data available, is dependent on future events, or is not capable of being readily calculated based on generally accepted methodologies. Often, estimates are particularly difficult to determine, and we must exercise significant judgment. Estimates may be used in our accounting for revenue recognized over time, the allowance for doubtful accounts, useful lives of property and equipment, fair value assumptions in analyzing goodwill and long-lived asset impairments, self-insured claims liabilities and deferred income taxes. Actual results could materially differ from those that result from using the estimates under different assumptions or conditions.
An accounting policy is deemed to be critical if i) it requires an accounting estimate to be based on assumptions about matters that are highly uncertain at the time the estimate is made, ii) different estimates could have reasonably been used, or iii) changes in the accounting estimates that are reasonably likely to occur periodically could materially impact our consolidated financial statements.
The following accounting policies require critical accounting estimates that are based on, among other things, judgments and assumptions made by management that include inherent risks and uncertainties. Management’s estimates are based on the relevant information available at the end of each period. We periodically review these accounting policies and critical accounting estimates with the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors.
Revenue recognition - We generate revenue under a range of contracting types, including fixed-price, unit-price, time and material, and cost reimbursable plus fee contracts, each of which has a different risk profile. A portion of our revenue is derived from contracts where scope is adequately defined, and therefore we can reasonably estimate total contract value. For these contracts, revenue is recognized over time as work is completed because of the continuous transfer of control to the customer (typically using an input measure such as costs incurred to date relative to total estimated costs at completion to measure progress). For certain contracts, where scope is not adequately defined and we can’t reasonably estimate total contract value, revenue is recognized either on an input basis, based on contract costs incurred as defined within the respective contracts, or an output basis based on units completed. Costs to obtain contracts are generally not significant and are expensed in the period incurred.
We evaluate whether two or more contracts should be combined and accounted for as one single performance obligation and whether a single contract should be accounted for as more than one performance obligation. ASC 606 defines a performance obligation as a contractual promise to transfer a distinct good or service to a customer. A contract’s transaction price is allocated to each distinct performance obligation and recognized as revenue when, or as, the performance obligation is satisfied. Our evaluation requires significant judgment and the decision to combine a group of contracts or separate a contract into multiple performance obligations could change the amount of revenue and profit recorded in a given period. The majority of our contracts have a single performance obligation, as the promise to transfer the individual goods or services is not separately identifiable from other promises in the contract and, therefore, is not distinct. However, occasionally we have contracts with multiple performance obligations. For contracts with multiple performance obligations, we allocate the contract’s transaction price to each performance obligation using the observable standalone selling price, if available, or alternatively our best estimate of the standalone selling price of each distinct performance obligation in the contract. The primary method used to estimate standalone selling price is the expected cost plus a margin approach for each performance obligation.
Accounting for long-term contracts involves the use of various techniques to estimate total transaction price and costs. For long-term contracts, transaction price, estimated cost at completion and total costs incurred to date are used to calculate revenue earned. Unforeseen events and circumstances can alter the estimate of the costs and potential profit associated with a particular contract. Total estimated costs, and thus contract revenue and income, can be impacted by changes in productivity, scheduling, the unit cost of labor, subcontracts, materials and equipment. Additionally, external factors such as weather, client needs, client delays in providing permits and approvals, labor availability, governmental regulation, politics and any prevailing impacts from pandemics or epidemics may affect the progress of a project’s completion, and thus the timing of revenue recognition. To the extent that original cost estimates are modified, estimated costs to complete increase, delivery schedules are delayed, or progress under a contract is otherwise impeded, cash flow, revenue recognition and profitability from a particular contract may be adversely affected.
The nature of our contracts gives rise to several types of variable consideration, including contract modifications (change orders and claims), liquidated damages, volume discounts, performance bonuses, incentive fees, and other terms that can either increase or decrease the transaction price. We estimate variable consideration as the most likely amount to which we expect to be entitled. We include estimated amounts in the transaction price to the extent we believe we have an enforceable right, and it is probable that a significant reversal of cumulative revenue recognized will not occur. Our estimates of variable consideration and the determination of whether to include estimated amounts in the transaction price are based largely on an assessment of our anticipated performance and all information (historical, current and forecasted) that is reasonably available to us at this time.
Contract modifications result from changes in contract specifications or requirements. We consider unapproved change orders to be contract modifications for which customers have not agreed to both scope and price. We consider claims to be contract modifications for which we seek, or will seek, to collect from customers, or others, for customer-caused changes in contract specifications or design, or other customer-related causes of unanticipated additional contract costs on which there is no agreement with customers. Claims can also be caused by non-customer-caused changes, such as rain or other weather delays. Costs associated with contract modifications are included in the estimated costs to complete the contracts and are treated as project costs when incurred. In most instances, contract modifications are for
goods or services that are not distinct, and, therefore, are accounted for as part of the existing contract. The effect of a contract modification on the transaction price, and our measure of progress for the performance obligation to which it relates, is recognized as an adjustment to revenue on a cumulative catch-up basis. In some cases, settlement of contract modifications may not occur until after completion of work under the contract.
As a significant change in one or more of these estimates could affect the profitability of our contracts, we review and update our contract-related estimates regularly. We recognize adjustments in estimated profit on contracts under the cumulative catch-up method. Under this method, the cumulative impact of the profit adjustment is recognized in the period the adjustment is identified. Revenue and profit in future periods of contract performance are recognized using the adjusted estimate. If at any time the estimate of contract profitability indicates an anticipated loss on a contract, the projected loss is recognized in full, including any previously recognized profit, in the period it is identified and recognized as an “accrued loss provision” which is included in “Contract liabilities” on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. For contract revenue recognized over time, the accrued loss provision is adjusted so that the gross profit for the contract remains zero in future periods.
At December 31, 2023, we had approximately $203.5 million of unapproved contract modifications included in the aggregate transaction prices. These unapproved contract modifications were in the process of being negotiated in the normal course of business. Approximately $175.7 million of the unapproved contract modifications had been recognized as revenue on a cumulative catch-up basis through December 31, 2023.
In all forms of contracts, we estimate the collectability of contract amounts at the same time that we estimate project costs. If we anticipate that there may be issues associated with the collectability of the full amount calculated as the transaction price, we may reduce the amount recognized as revenue to reflect the uncertainty associated with realization of the eventual cash collection. For example, when a cost reimbursable project exceeds the client’s expected budget amount, the client frequently requests an adjustment to the final amount. Similarly, some utility clients reserve the right to audit costs for significant periods after performance of the work.
The timing of when we bill our customers is generally dependent upon agreed-upon contractual terms, milestone billings based on the completion of certain phases of the work, or when services are provided. Sometimes, billing occurs subsequent to revenue recognition, resulting in unbilled revenue, which is a contract asset. However, we sometimes receive advances or deposits from our customers before revenue is recognized, resulting in deferred revenue, which is a contract liability.
The caption “Contract assets” in the Consolidated Balance Sheets represents the following:
● unbilled revenue, which arise when revenue has been recorded, but the amount will not be billed until a later date;
● retainage amounts for the portion of the contract price earned by us for work performed, but held for payment by the customer as a form of security until we reach certain construction milestones; and
● contract materials for certain job specific materials not yet installed, which are valued using the specific identification method relating the cost incurred to a specific project.
The caption “Contract liabilities” in the Consolidated Balance Sheets represents the following:
● deferred revenue on billings in excess of contract revenue recognized to date, and
● the accrued loss provision.
Business combinations-We use the fair value of the consideration paid and the fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed to account for the purchase price of businesses we acquire. The determination of fair value requires estimates and judgments of future cash flow expectations for the assignment of the fair values to the identifiable tangible and intangible assets.
Identifiable Tangible Assets. Significant identifiable tangible assets acquired would include accounts receivable, contract assets, leases and fixed assets (generally consisting of facilities and construction equipment). We determine the fair value of these assets as of the acquisition date. For current assets and current liabilities of an acquisition, we will evaluate whether the book value is equivalent to fair value due to their short term nature. We estimate the fair value of fixed assets using a market approach, based on comparable market values for similar equipment of similar condition and age.
Identifiable Intangible Assets. When necessary, we use the assistance of an independent third-party valuation specialist to determine the fair value of the intangible assets acquired. Third-party specialists are used to help us identify and separate intangible assets apart from goodwill such as customer relationships and tradenames. Fair value is determined by analyzing revenue trends, expected growth rates for existing customers, customer attrition rates, royalty rates, discount rates and intended use of future assets.
A liability for contingent consideration based on future earnings is estimated at its fair value at the date of acquisition, with subsequent changes in fair value recorded in earnings as a gain or loss. Fair value is estimated as of the acquisition date based on management’s best estimate of estimated earnout payments.
Accounting principles generally accepted in the United States provide a “measurement period” of up to one year in which to finalize all fair value estimates associated with the acquisition of a business. Most estimates are preliminary until the end of the measurement period. During the measurement period, adjustments to initial valuations and estimates that reflect newly discovered information that existed at the acquisition date are recorded. After the measurement date, any adjustments would be recorded as a current period gain or loss.
Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets-Goodwill and certain intangible assets acquired in a business combination and determined to have indefinite useful lives are not amortized but are assessed for impairment annually and more frequently if triggering events occur. In performing these assessments, management relies on various factors, including operating results, business plans, economic projections, anticipated future cash flows, comparable transactions and other market data. There are inherent uncertainties related to these factors and judgment in applying them to the analysis of goodwill for impairment. Since judgment is involved in performing fair value measurements used in goodwill impairment analyses, there is risk that the carrying values of our goodwill may not be properly stated.
We account for goodwill, including evaluation of any goodwill impairment under ASC 350, “Intangibles - Goodwill and Other”, performed at the reporting unit level for those units with recorded goodwill as of October 1 of each year, unless there are indications requiring a more frequent impairment test.
Under ASC 350, we can assess qualitative factors to determine if a quantitative impairment test of intangible assets is necessary. Our qualitative assessment is used to determine whether it is more likely than not (that is, a likelihood of more than 50 percent) that the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying value, including goodwill. Factors used in our qualitative assessment include, but are not limited to, macroeconomic conditions, industry and market conditions, cost factors, overall financial performance and Company and reporting unit specific events. If deemed necessary, we use the quantitative impairment test outlined in ASC 350, which compares the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount. Fair value for the goodwill impairment test is determined utilizing a discounted cash flow analysis based on our financial plan discounted using our weighted average cost of capital and market indicators of terminal year cash flows. Other valuation methods may be used to corroborate the discounted cash flow method. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit is in excess of its fair value, goodwill is considered impaired and an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess, limited to the total amount of goodwill of the reporting unit.
There were no impairments of goodwill for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021.
Income taxes-We account for income taxes under the asset and liability method as set forth in ASC 740, “Income Taxes”, which requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been included in the financial statements. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the temporary differences between the financial reporting bases and tax bases of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the years in which the differences are expected to reverse. The
effect of changes in tax rates on net deferred tax assets or liabilities is recognized as an increase or decrease in net income in the period the tax change is enacted.
Deferred tax assets may be reduced by a valuation allowance if, in the judgment of management, it is more likely than not that all or a portion of a deferred tax asset will not be realized. In making such determination, we consider all available evidence, including recent financial operations, projected future taxable income, scheduled reversals of deferred tax liabilities, tax planning strategies, and the length of tax asset carryforward periods. The realization of deferred tax assets is primarily dependent upon our ability to generate sufficient future taxable earnings in certain jurisdictions. If we subsequently determine that some or all deferred tax assets that were previously offset by a valuation allowance are realizable, the value of the deferred tax assets would be increased by reducing the valuation allowance, thereby increasing income in the period when that determination is made.
A tax position is recognized as a benefit only if it is more likely than not that the tax position would be sustained based on its technical merits in a tax examination, using the presumption that the tax authority has full knowledge of all relevant facts regarding the position. The amount recognized is the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized on ultimate settlement with the tax authority. For tax positions not meeting the more likely than not test, no tax benefit is recorded. Based on our results for the year ended December 31, 2023, a one-percentage point increase in our effective tax rate would have resulted in an increase in our income tax expense of approximately $1.8 million.
Litigation and contingencies-Litigation and contingencies are included in our consolidated financial statements based on our assessment of the expected outcome of litigation proceedings or the expected resolution of the contingency. We record costs related to contingencies when a loss from such claims is probable and the amount is reasonably estimable. In determining whether it is possible to provide an estimate of loss, or range of possible loss, we review and evaluate litigation and regulatory matters on a quarterly basis in light of potentially relevant factual and legal developments. If we determine an unfavorable outcome is not probable or reasonably estimable, we do not accrue for a potential litigation loss. Management is unable to ascertain the ultimate outcome of other claims and legal proceedings; however, after review and consultation with counsel and taking into consideration relevant insurance coverage and related deductibles/self-insurance retention, management believes that it has meritorious defenses to the claims and believes that the reasonably possible outcome of such claims will not, individually or in the aggregate, have a material adverse effect on our consolidated results of operations, financial condition or cash flows. See Note 12 - “Commitments and Contingencies” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further information.
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
See Note 2 - “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a discussion of recently issued accounting pronouncements.
Results of Operations
Consolidated Results
Revenue
2023 and 2022
Revenue for the year ended December 31, 2023 increased by $1.3 billion, or 29.3%, compared to 2022. The increase was primarily due to growth in both our Energy and Utilities segments, and the acquisitions of PLH and B Comm in 2022.
2022 and 2021
Revenue for the year ended December 31, 2022 increased by $923.0 million, or 26.4%, compared to 2021. The increase was primarily due to growth in our Energy and Utilities segments, and the acquisitions of PLH and B Comm ($406.2 million combined) as described in the segment results below.
Gross Profit
2023 and 2022
For the year ended December 31, 2023, gross profit increased by $130.6 million, or 28.6%, compared to 2022. The increase was primarily due to an increase in revenue. Gross profit as a percentage of revenue remained consistent at 10.3% compared to the same period in 2022.
2022 and 2021
For the year ended December 31, 2022, gross profit increased by $40.2 million, or 9.7%, compared to 2021. The increase was primarily due to an increase in revenue and the acquisitions of PLH and B Comm ($46.4 million combined), partially offset by a decrease in margins. Gross profit as a percentage of revenue decreased to 10.3% from 11.9% in the same period in 2021 primarily as a result of negative gross margins experienced on pipeline projects in 2022, increased labor and fuel costs in our Utilities segment, and the favorable impact from the closeout of multiple pipeline projects in 2021, as more fully described in the segment results below.
In addition, we had a favorable impact from the change in useful lives of certain equipment, which reduced our depreciation expense for the year ended December 31, 2022 by $19.3 million compared to the same period in 2021. See Note 2 - “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Selling, general and administrative expenses (“SG&A”) consist primarily of compensation and benefits to executive, management level and administrative employees, marketing and communications, professional fees, rent for facilities and utilities.
2023 and 2022
SG&A expenses were $328.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, an increase of $47.2 million, or 16.7% compared to 2022, primarily due to higher incentive compensation costs associated with improved operational performance and increases in headcount from the acquisitions of PLH and B Comm. SG&A expense as a percentage of revenue for the year ended December 31, 2023 decreased to 5.8% compared to 6.4% for the year ended December 31, 2022, primarily due to increased revenue.
2022 and 2021
SG&A expenses were $281.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2022, an increase of $51.5 million, or 22.4% compared to 2021, primarily due to the increases in headcount from the acquisitions of PLH and B Comm ($28.3 million) and increased costs to support our strong organic growth. SG&A expense as a percentage of revenue for the year ended December 31, 2022 decreased to 6.4% compared to 6.6% for the year ended December 31, 2021, primarily due to increased revenue.
Transaction and related costs
2023 and 2022
Transaction and related costs for the year ended December 31, 2023 were $5.7 million, a decrease of $14.4 million or 71.7% compared to 2022. The decrease was due to professional fees paid to advisors for the acquisitions of B Comm and PLH in 2022.
2022 and 2021
Transaction and related costs for the year ended December 31, 2022 were $20.1 million, an increase of $3.7 million or 22.3% compared to 2021, primarily due to an increase in professional fees paid to advisors for the acquisitions of PLH and B Comm.
Gain on Sale and Leaseback Transaction
On June 22, 2022, we completed a sale and leaseback transaction of land and buildings located in Carson, California for an aggregate sales price, net of closing costs, of $49.9 million. Under the transaction, the land, buildings and improvements were sold and leased back for an initial term of three years. The property qualified for sale and leaseback treatment and is classified as an operating lease. Therefore, we recorded a gain on the transaction of $40.1 million. The gain is included in Gain on sale and leaseback transaction on our Consolidated Statements of Income for the year ended December 31, 2022. There were no such comparable transactions for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2021.
Other income and expense
Non-operating income and expense items for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 were as follows (in millions):
Year Ended December 31,
Foreign exchange gain (loss), net
$
1.2
$
1.1
$
(0.1)
Other income, net
1.6
2.1
0.3
Interest expense, net
(78.2)
(39.2)
(18.5)
Total other expense
$
(75.4)
$
(36.0)
$
(18.3)
Interest expense, net for the year ended December 31, 2023 was $78.2 million compared to $39.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2022. The increase of $39.0 million was due primarily to higher average debt balances from the borrowings related to the PLH acquisition and higher average interest rates.
Interest expense, net for the year ended December 31, 2022 was $39.2 million compared to $18.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2021. The increase of $20.7 million was due primarily to higher average debt balances from the borrowings related to the PLH acquisition and a higher average interest rate.
The weighted average interest rate on total debt outstanding at December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 was 6.8%, 6.2% and 2.8%, respectively.
Provision for income taxes
Our provision for income taxes increased $25.3 million to $51.5 million for 2023 compared to 2022. The increase was primarily driven by the tax benefit recognized in 2022 for capital losses, the 2023 expiration of a temporary law which allowed full deductibility of per diem expenses in 2021 and 2022, and increased pre-tax profits subject to tax. The 2023 effective tax rate was 29%.
Our provision for income taxes decreased $9.8 million to $26.3 million for 2022 compared to 2021. The decrease was primarily driven by the release of valuation allowances during the second and third quarters of 2022, partially offset by tax on increased pre-tax profits. Due to capital gains on the sale of California properties in 2022, we have released all of the valuation allowance previously placed on capital losses and recognized a 5.8% decrease in our 2022 annual effective tax rate. The 2022 effective tax rate was 16.5%.
Segment Results
Utilities Segment
Revenue and gross profit for the Utilities segment for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 were as follows:
Year Ended December 31,
% of
% of
% of
Segment
Segment
Segment
(Millions)
Revenue
(Millions)
Revenue
(Millions)
Revenue
Utilities Segment
Revenue
$
2,380.2
$
2,024.3
$
1,658.0
Gross profit
207.0
8.7%
210.7
10.4%
186.3
11.2%
2023 and 2022
Revenue increased by $355.9 million, or 17.6%, during 2023 compared to 2022. The increase is primarily due to the acquisitions of PLH and B Comm in 2022 and increased activity in our power delivery and communications markets.
Gross profit decreased $3.7 million, or 1.8%, during 2023 compared to 2022. The decrease is primarily due to a decrease in margins, partially offset by growth in revenue. Gross profit as a percentage of revenue decreased to 8.7% in 2023 compared to 10.4% in 2022 primarily due to productivity issues on some legacy PLH projects that are nearing completion, higher costs associated with a communication project in 2023, and a shift in revenue mix in 2023.
2022 and 2021
Revenue increased by $366.3 million, or 22.1%, during 2022 compared to 2021. The increase is primarily due to the acquisitions of PLH and B Comm ($260.7 million combined) in 2022 and increased activity across the power delivery and communications markets.
Gross profit increased $24.4 million, or 13.1%, during 2022 compared to 2021. The increase is primarily attributable to the incremental impact of the PLH and B Comm acquisitions ($26.2 million), partially offset by lower margins. Gross profit as a percentage of revenue decreased to 10.4% in 2022 compared to 11.2% in 2021 primarily due to increased fuel and labor costs from the inflationary environment we experienced in 2022. A substantial majority of the work done in our Utilities segment is performed over longer term MSA contracts. These MSA contracts generally have escalation provisions that allow us to adjust billing rates annually, but typically the annual adjustment is subject to a cap and there can be an extended period of time between the impact of inflation on our costs and when billing rates are adjusted. Due to the inflationary environment we experienced in 2022, our actual cost increases exceeded the contractual caps, and therefore negatively impacted gross margins. We were successful in renegotiating some of our major contracts to address the increased fuel and labor costs on future work and continue to address this with our utility customers.
Energy Segment
Revenue and gross profit for the Energy segment for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 were as follows:
Year Ended December 31,
% of
% of
% of
Segment
Segment
Segment
(Millions)
Revenue
(Millions)
Revenue
(Millions)
Revenue
Energy Segment
Revenue
$
3,335.1
$
2,396.3
$
1,839.7
Gross profit
380.5
11.4%
246.2
10.3%
230.4
12.5%
2023 and 2022
Revenue increased by $938.8 million, or 39.2%, during 2023 compared to 2022, primarily due to increased renewable energy, industrial, and pipeline activity and the PLH acquisition.
Gross profit increased by $134.3 million, or 54.5% during 2023 compared to 2022, due to higher revenue and margins. Gross profit as a percentage of revenue increased to 11.4% in 2023 compared to 10.3% in 2022, primarily due to significant growth in higher margin renewable energy work, strong performance on a pipeline project in the mid-Atlantic in 2023, higher costs on a separate pipeline project in the mid-Atlantic from unfavorable weather conditions experienced in 2022 and higher relative carrying costs for equipment and personnel in 2022 caused by lower than anticipated pipeline volumes.
2022 and 2021
Revenue increased by $556.6 million, or 30.3%, during 2022 compared to 2021, due to increased renewable energy activity ($430.1 million), the PLH acquisition ($145.4 million), and increased activity on electric power plants and hydrogen plants, partially offset by the substantial completion of pipeline projects in 2021 and a decline in midstream pipeline market demand.
Gross profit increased by $15.8 million, or 6.8%, during 2022 compared to 2021, primarily due to higher revenue. Gross profit as a percentage of revenue decreased to 10.3% in 2022 compared to 12.5% in 2021, primarily due to the favorable impact from the closeout of multiple pipeline projects in 2021, higher costs on a project in the Mid-Atlantic from unfavorable weather conditions experienced in 2022 and lower than anticipated volumes in 2022, which lead to higher relative carrying costs for equipment and personnel. The decrease was partially offset by increased revenue on higher margin renewable energy projects in 2022 and higher costs associated with an LNG plant project in the Northeast in 2021.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Cash Needs
Liquidity represents our ability to pay our liabilities when they become due, fund business operations, meet our contractual obligations and execute our business plan. Our primary sources of liquidity are our cash balances at the beginning of each period and our cash flows from operating activities. If needed, we have availability under our lines of credit to augment liquidity needs. Our short-term and long-term cash requirements consist primarily of working capital, investments to support revenue growth and maintain our equipment and facilities, general corporate needs, and to service our debt obligations. At December 31, 2023, there were no outstanding borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility, commercial letters of credit outstanding were $51.6 million, and available borrowing capacity was $273.4 million.
In June 2023, we entered into an Accounts Receivable Facility (the “Facility”) with PNC Bank, National Association (“PNC”) to reduce interest costs and improve cash flows from trade accounts receivable. The Facility has a one-year term, and the maximum purchase commitment by PNC is $100.0 million, at any one time. Under the Facility, certain of our designated subsidiaries may sell their trade accounts receivable as they are originated to a wholly owned bankruptcy remote Special Purpose Entity created specifically for this purpose. The total outstanding balance of trade accounts receivable that have been sold and derecognized is $75.0 million as of December 31, 2023. As of December 31, 2023, we had $25.0 million in available capacity under the Facility.
In order to maintain sufficient liquidity, we evaluate our working capital requirements on a regular basis. We may elect to raise additional capital by issuing common stock, convertible notes, term debt or increasing our credit facility as necessary to fund our operations or to fund the acquisition of new businesses.
Our cash and cash equivalents totaled $217.8 million at December 31, 2023, compared to $248.7 million at December 31, 2022. We anticipate that our cash and investments on hand, existing borrowing capacity under our credit facilities, and our future cash flows from operations will provide sufficient funds to enable us to meet our operating needs, our planned capital expenditures, and settle our commitments and contingencies for the next twelve months and the foreseeable future.
The construction industry is capital intensive, and we expect to continue to make capital expenditures to meet anticipated needs for our services. In 2023, we spent approximately $103.0 million for capital expenditures, which included $34.0 million for construction equipment. Capital expenditures are expected to total between $80.0 million and $100.0 million for 2024, which includes $20.0 million to $40.0 million for construction equipment.
Cash Flows
Cash flows during the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 are summarized as follows (in millions):
Year Ended December 31,
Change in cash:
Net cash provided by operating activities
$
198.6
$
83.3
$
79.7
Net cash used in investing activities
(30.0)
(481.9)
(691.3)
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities
(205.3)
452.0
485.8
Effect of exchange rate changes
1.3
(0.1)
0.5
Net change in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash
$
(35.4)
$
53.3
$
(125.3)
Operating Activities
The sources and uses of cash flow associated with operating activities for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 were as follows (in millions):
Year Ended December 31,
Operating Activities:
Net income
$
126.1
$
133.0
$
115.7
Depreciation and amortization
107.0
99.2
105.6
Gain on sale and leaseback transaction
-
(40.1)
-
Changes in assets and liabilities
(0.1)
(79.0)
(132.7)
Gain on sale of property and equipment
(48.1)
(31.9)
(15.9)
Other
13.6
2.1
7.0
Net cash provided by operating activities
$
198.6
$
83.3
$
79.7
2023 and 2022
Net cash provided by operating activities for 2023 was $198.6 million, an increase of $115.3 million compared to 2022. The change year-over-year was primarily due to improvement in the impact from the changes in assets and liabilities and the inclusion of $40.1 million of gain on a sale and leaseback transaction in 2022 net income.
The significant components of the $0.1 million change in assets and liabilities for the year ended December 31, 2023 are summarized as follows:
● Contract assets increased by $229.8 million from December 31, 2022 primarily due to significant revenue growth in 2023;
● Accounts receivable increased $16.9 million from December 31, 2022, which is net of the $75.0 million we received from the Accounts Receivable Securitization Facility;
● Accounts payable increased $93.4 million from December 31, 2022 primarily due to increased revenue and the timing of payments to our vendors;
● Contract liabilities increased $84.7 million, primarily due to higher deferred revenue; and
● Other current assets decreased by $45.6 million primarily due to an income tax refund and the timing of prepaid material purchases.
2022 and 2021
Net cash provided by operating activities for 2022 was $83.3 million, an increase of $3.6 million compared to 2021. The change year-over-year was primarily due to improvement in the impact from the changes in assets and liabilities, partially offset by a decrease in net income (after adjusting for cash from gains reported in investing activities).
The significant components of the $79.0 million change in assets and liabilities for the year ended December 31, 2022 are summarized as follows:
● Accounts payable and accrued liabilities increased $197.2 million from December 31, 2021 primarily due to revenue growth and the timing of our payments to vendors;
● Contract assets increased by $118.8 million from December 31, 2021 primarily due to significant revenue growth in 2022;
● Accounts receivable increased by $98.7 million from December 31, 2021 primarily due to increased revenue; and
● Other current assets increased by $70.3 million from December 31, 2021 primarily due to prepaid material purchases related to solar projects.
Investing activities
Net cash used in investing activities was $30.0 million, $481.9 million, and $691.3 million in the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
During 2023, we received $9.3 million from a net working capital true-up related to the PLH acquisition.
During 2022, we used $478.4 million for acquisitions, primarily for the acquisitions of PLH and B Comm.
During 2021, we used $607.0 million for the acquisition of FIH.
We purchased property and equipment for $103.0 million, $94.7 million and $133.8 million in the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, principally for our construction activities and facilities investment. We believe the ownership or long-term leasing of equipment is generally preferable to renting equipment on a project-by-project basis, as this strategy helps to ensure the equipment is available for our projects when needed. In addition, this approach has historically resulted in lower overall equipment costs.
We periodically sell assets, typically to update our fleet. We received proceeds from the sale of assets of $63.7 million, $41.3 million and $49.5 million for 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. Additionally, we received net proceeds of $49.9 million from a sale and leaseback transaction of land and buildings during the year ended December 31, 2022.
Financing activities
Financing activities used cash of $205.3 million in 2023, which was primarily due to the following:
● Net payments on our revolving credit facilities of $100.0 million; and
● Payment of long-term debt of $97.0 million.
Financing activities provided cash of $452.0 million in 2022, which was primarily due to the following:
● Proceeds from the entry into an amended and upsized term loan of $432.9 million, net of debt issuance costs paid;
● Net borrowings on our credit facilities of $100.0 million;
● Proceeds from the issuance of debt secured by our equipment of $30.0 million;
● Payment of long-term debt of $86.8 million; and
● Dividend payments to our stockholders of $12.8 million.
Financing activities provided cash of $485.8 million in 2021, which was primarily due to the following:
● Proceeds from the entry into an amended and upsized term loan of $395.1 million, net of debt issuance costs paid;
● Proceeds from the issuance of common stock $178.7 million;
● Proceeds from the issuance of debt secured by our equipment of $61.7 million;
● Payment of long-term debt of $113.9 million;
● Purchase of common stock of $14.7 million; and
● Dividend payments to our stockholders of $12.6 million.
Debt Activities
Credit Agreement
On August 1, 2022, we entered into the Amended Credit Agreement with CIBC Bank USA, as administrative agent (the “Administrative Agent”) and co-lead arranger, and the financial parties thereto (collectively, the “Lenders”) that increased the Term Loan by $439.5 million to an aggregate principal amount of $945.0 million. The Amended Credit Agreement is scheduled to mature on August 1, 2027.
In addition to the New Term Loan, the Amended Credit Agreement increased the existing $200.0 million Revolving Credit Facility, whereby the Lenders agreed to make loans on a revolving basis from time to time and to issue letters of credit, to $325.0 million. At December 31, 2023, there were no outstanding borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility, commercial letters of credit outstanding were $51.6 million, and available borrowing capacity was $273.4 million.
Under the Amended Credit Agreement, we must make quarterly principal payments on the New Term Loan in an amount equal to approximately $11.8 million, with the balance due on August 1, 2027. The proceeds from the New Term Loan and additional borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility were used to finance the acquisition of PLH.
We capitalized $6.5 million of debt issuance costs during the third quarter of 2022 associated with the Amended Credit Agreement that is being amortized as interest expense over the life of the Amended Credit Agreement. In addition, we recorded a loss on extinguishment of debt during the third quarter of 2022 of $0.8 million related to the Amended Credit Agreement.
The principal amount of all loans under the Amended Credit Agreement will bear interest at either: (i) the Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”) plus an applicable margin as specified in the Amended Credit Agreement (based on our net senior debt to earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) ratio as defined in the Amended Credit Agreement), or (ii) the Base Rate (which is the greater of (a) the Federal Funds Rate plus 0.50% or (b) the prime rate as announced by the Administrative Agent) plus an applicable margin as specified in the Amended Credit Agreement. Quarterly non-use fees, letter of credit fees and administrative agent fees are payable at rates specified in the Amended Credit Agreement.
The principal amount of any loan drawn under the Amended Credit Agreement may be prepaid in whole or in part at any time, with a minimum prepayment of $5.0 million.
Loans made under the Amended Credit Agreement are secured by our assets, including, among others, our cash, inventory, equipment (excluding equipment subject to permitted liens), and accounts receivable. Certain subsidiaries have issued joint and several guaranties in favor of the Lenders for all amounts under the Amended Credit Agreement.
The Amended Credit Agreement contains various restrictive and financial covenants including, among others, a net senior debt/EBITDA ratio and minimum EBITDA to cash interest ratio. In addition, the Amended Credit Agreement includes restrictions on investments, change of control provisions and provisions in the event we dispose of more than 20% of our total assets.
We were in compliance with the covenants for the Amended Credit Agreement at December 31, 2023.
On January 31, 2023, we entered into an interest rate swap agreement to manage our exposure to the fluctuations in variable interest rates. The swap effectively exchanged the interest rate on $300.0 million of the debt outstanding under our New Term Loan from variable to a fixed rate of 4.095% per annum, plus an applicable margin which was 2.25% at December 31, 2023. The interest rate swap matures on January 31, 2025.
Canadian Credit Facilities
We have credit facilities totaling $14.0 million in Canadian dollars for the purposes of issuing commercial letters of credit and providing funding for working capital. At December 31, 2023, commercial letters of credit outstanding were $0.9 million in Canadian dollars and there were no outstanding borrowings. Available capacity at December 31, 2023 was $13.1 million in Canadian dollars.
Contractual Obligations
As of December 31, 2023, we had $964.7 million of outstanding long-term debt, and there were no short-term borrowings.
A summary of contractual obligations as of December 31, 2023 is as follows (in millions):
Total
1 Year
2 - 3 Years
4 - 5 Years
After 5 Years
Long-term debt
$
964.7
$
72.9
$
141.4
$
743.3
$
7.1
Interest on long-term debt (1)
225.4
64.0
122.3
38.6
0.5
Operating leases
406.6
112.8
171.5
97.8
24.5
$
1,596.7
$
249.7
$
435.1
$
879.8
$
32.1
Letters of credit
$
52.3
$
52.3
$
-
$
-
$
-
(1) The interest amount represents interest payments for our fixed rate debt assuming that principal payments are made as originally scheduled. Our Credit Agreement bears interest at variable market rates, and estimated payments are based on the interest rate in effect as of December 31, 2023, including the impact of our interest rate swap.
The summary does not include potential obligations under multi-employer pension plans in which some of our employees participate. Our multi-employer pension plan contribution rates are generally specified in our collective bargaining agreements, and contributions are made to the plans based on employee payrolls. Our obligations for future periods cannot be determined because we cannot predict the number of employees that we will employ at any given time nor the plans in which they may participate.
We may also be required to make additional contributions to multi-employer pension plans if they become underfunded, and these contributions will be determined based on our union payroll. The Pension Protection Act of 2006 added special funding and operational rules for multi-employer plans that are classified as “endangered,” “seriously endangered” or “critical” status. Plans in these classifications must adopt measures to improve their funded status through a funding improvement or rehabilitation plan, which may require additional contributions from employers. The amounts of additional funds that we may be obligated to contribute cannot be reasonably estimated and is not included in the table above.
Off Balance Sheet Arrangements
We enter into certain off-balance sheet arrangements in the ordinary course of business that result in risks not directly reflected on our balance sheet. We have no off-balance sheet financing arrangement with VIEs. The following represents transactions, obligations or relationships that could be considered material off-balance sheet arrangements.
● At December 31, 2023, we had letters of credit outstanding of $52.3 million under the terms of our credit agreements. These letters of credit are primarily used by our insurance carriers to ensure reimbursement for amounts that they are disbursing on our behalf, such as to beneficiaries under our self-funded insurance program. In addition, from time to time, certain customers require us to post a letter of credit to ensure payments to our subcontractors or guarantee performance under our contracts. Letters of credit reduce our borrowing availability under our Amended Credit Agreement and Canadian Credit Facility. If a beneficiary were to successfully draw on any letter of credit, we would be required to reimburse the issuer of the letter of credit, and we may be required to record a charge to earnings for the reimbursement. We do not believe that it is likely that any material claims will be made under a letter of credit.
● In the ordinary course of our business, we may be required by our customers to post surety bid or completion bonds in connection with services that we provide. At December 31, 2023, we had bid and completion bonds issued and outstanding totaling approximately $5.9 billion. The remaining performance obligation on those bonded projects totaled approximately $2.7 billion at December 31, 2023. We do not believe that it is likely that a material claim will be made under our surety arrangements.
● Certain of our subsidiaries are parties to collective bargaining agreements with unions. In most instances, these agreements require that we contribute to multi-employer pension and health and welfare plans. For many plans, the contributions are determined annually and required future contributions cannot be determined since contribution rates depend on the total number of union employees and actuarial calculations based on the demographics of all participants. The Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (“ERISA”), as amended by the Multi-Employer Pension Amendments Act of 1980, subjects employers to potential liabilities in the event of an employer’s complete or partial withdrawal of an underfunded multi-employer pension plan. The Pension Protection Act of 2006 added new funding rules that are classified as “endangered”, “seriously endangered”, or “critical” status. Withdrawal liabilities or requirements for increased future contributions could negatively impact our results of operations and liquidity.
● We enter into employment agreements with certain employees which provide for compensation and benefits under certain circumstances and which may contain a change of control clause. We may be obligated to make payments under the terms of these agreements.
● From time to time we make other guarantees, such as guaranteeing the obligations of our subsidiaries.
Backlog
For infrastructure services contractors, backlog can be an indicator of future revenue streams. Different companies define and calculate backlog in different manners. We define backlog as anticipated revenue from the uncompleted portions of existing contracts where scope is adequately defined, and therefore we can reasonably estimate total contract value (“Fixed Backlog”), and the estimated revenue on MSA work (“MSA Backlog”). We present two measures of backlog; one that includes Fixed Backlog and MSA Backlog for the next twelve months, and total backlog that includes all Fixed Backlog and MSA Backlog to the end of the MSA agreement. We do not consider renewals when estimating MSA Backlog. We do not include certain contracts in the calculation of fixed backlog where scope, and therefore contract value, is not adequately defined. We estimate MSA Backlog based on historical trends, anticipated seasonal impacts and estimates of customer demand based on information from our customers.
Fixed and MSA Backlog by reporting segment for the periods ending December 31, 2023 and 2022 were as follows (in millions):
December 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
Next 12 Months
Total
Next 12 Months
Total
Utilities
Fixed Backlog
$
96.3
$
96.3
$
183.3
$
183.3
MSA Backlog
1,776.5
5,093.6
1,649.9
4,967.1
Backlog
$
1,872.8
$
5,189.9
$
1,833.2
$
5,150.4
Energy
Fixed Backlog
$
2,599.0
$
5,102.6
$
1,920.8
$
3,391.8
MSA Backlog
308.2
602.4
258.5
552.8
Backlog
$
2,907.2
$
5,705.0
$
2,179.3
$
3,944.6
Total
Fixed Backlog
$
2,695.3
$
5,198.9
$
2,104.1
$
3,575.1
MSA Backlog
2,084.7
5,696.0
1,908.4
5,519.9
Backlog
$
4,780.0
$
10,894.9
$
4,012.5
$
9,095.0
Backlog should not be considered a comprehensive indicator of future revenue, as a percentage of our revenue is derived from projects that are not part of a backlog calculation. The backlog estimates include amounts from estimated MSAs, but our customers are not contractually obligated to purchase an amount of services from us under the MSAs. Any of our contracts may be terminated by our customers on relatively short notice. In the event of a project cancellation, we are typically reimbursed for all of our costs through a specific date, as well as all reasonable costs associated with demobilizing from the jobsite, but typically we have no contractual right to the total revenue reflected in backlog. Projects may remain in backlog for extended periods of time as a result of customer delays, regulatory requirements or project specific issues. Future revenue from projects where scope, and therefore contract value, is not adequately defined may not be included in our estimated backlog amount.
Effects of Inflation and Changing Prices
Our operations are affected by increases in prices, whether caused by inflation or other economic factors. We attempt to recover anticipated increases in the cost of labor, equipment, fuel and materials through price escalation provisions that allow us to adjust billing rates for certain major contracts annually; by considering the estimated effect of such increases when bidding or pricing new work; or by entering into back-to-back contracts with suppliers and subcontractors. However, the annual adjustment provided by certain contracts is typically subject to a cap and there can be an extended period of time between the impact of inflation on our costs and when billing rates are adjusted. In some cases, our actual cost increases have exceeded the contractual caps, and therefore negatively impacted our operations. We have been able to renegotiate some of our major contracts to address the increased costs on future work and will continue to address this with our customers going forward.

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ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
ITEM 7A.
QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
In the ordinary course of business, we are exposed to risks related to market conditions. These risks primarily include fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates and commodity prices. We may seek to manage these risks through the use of financial derivative instruments. These instruments have in the past included interest rate swaps and may in the future include foreign currency exchange contracts, interest rate swaps and hedges against commodity price fluctuations.
The carrying amounts for cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, short term investments, short-term debt, accounts payable and accrued liabilities shown in the Consolidated Balance Sheets approximate fair value at December 31, 2023, due to the generally short maturities of these items.
Our Revolving Credit Facility and Term Loan bear interest at a variable rate which exposes us to interest rate risk. From time to time, we may use certain derivative instruments to hedge our exposure to variable interest rates. As of December 31, 2023, $300.0 million of our variable rate debt outstanding was economically hedged. Based on our variable rate debt outstanding as of December 31, 2023, a 1.0% increase or decrease in interest rates would change annual interest expense by approximately $5.7 million.
We do not execute transactions or use financial derivative instruments for trading or speculative purposes. We generally enter into transactions with counter-parties that are financial institutions as a means to limit significant exposure with any one party.

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ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
ITEM 8.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
Our financial statements, supplementary financial data and financial statement schedules are included in a separate section at the end of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, and are incorporated herein by reference. The financial statements, supplementary data and schedules are listed in the index on page of this Annual Report on Form 10-K and are incorporated herein by reference.

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ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS
ITEM 9.
CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
None.

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ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
ITEM 9A.
CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
We maintain disclosure controls and procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to management, including our Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) and Chief Financial Officer (“CFO”), as appropriate, to allow for timely decisions regarding required disclosure. In designing and evaluating our disclosure controls and procedures, our management recognizes that any system of controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can only provide reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objectives, as ours are designed to do, and our management necessarily is required to apply its judgment in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of possible controls and procedures. Our disclosure controls and procedures are designed to provide reasonable assurance of achieving their stated objectives.
In connection with the preparation of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, as of December 31, 2023, an evaluation was performed under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our CEO and CFO, of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) or 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act). Based on that evaluation, our CEO and CFO concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective at the reasonable assurance level as of December 31, 2023, to ensure that the information required to be disclosed by us in our reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and to ensure that the information required to be disclosed by us in reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our CEO and CFO, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosures.
Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) or 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act. Our internal control over financial reporting is designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Our internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that:
(i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of our assets;
(ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that our receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with authorizations of our management and directors; and
(iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of our assets that could have a material effect on our financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our CEO and CFO, our management conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023. Management based this assessment on the framework in “Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013)” issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on that evaluation, our CEO and CFO concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2023. Management reviewed the results of its assessment with the Audit Committee of our Board of Directors.
Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm Report
Moss Adams LLP, the independent registered public accounting firm that audited our consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, has issued a report on our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023. The report, which expresses an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023, is included in “Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplemental Data” under the heading “Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.”
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Our management, with the participation of our CEO and CFO, has evaluated any changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended December 31, 2023. Based on this evaluation, our CEO and CFO concluded that, at December 31, 2023, there has not been any change in our internal control over financial reporting during the most recent fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

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ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 9B.
OTHER INFORMATION
None.

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ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
ITEM 10.
DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
The information required under this Item 10 is set forth in our Proxy Statement for the 2024 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be filed with the SEC within 120 days of December 31, 2023 (the “Proxy Statement”) and is incorporated herein by reference.

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ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
ITEM 11.
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The information required under this Item 11 is set forth in our Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference, except for the information required by Item 402(v) of Regulation S-K or set forth under the caption, “Compensation Committee Report” of our Proxy Statement, which specifically is not incorporated herein by reference.

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ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS
ITEM 12.
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
The information required under this Item 12 is set forth in our Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference.

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ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
ITEM 13.
CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE
The information required under this Item 13 is set forth in our Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference.

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ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES
ITEM 14.
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES
The information required under this Item 14 is set forth in our Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference.
PART IV

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ITEM 15. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
ITEM 15. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
(A) We have filed the following documents as part of this Report:
1. Consolidated Balance Sheets of Primoris Services Corporation and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 and the related Consolidated Statements of Income, Comprehensive Income, Stockholders’ Equity and Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021.
2. Report of Moss Adams LLP, independent registered public accounting firm, related to the consolidated financial statements in part (A)(1) above.
3. Notes to the consolidated financial statements in part (A)(1) above.
4. List of exhibits required by Item 601 of Regulation S-K. See part (B) below.
(B) The following is a complete list of exhibits filed as part of this Report, some of which are incorporated herein by reference from certain other of our reports, registration statements and other filings with the SEC, as referenced below:
Exhibit No.
Description
Exhibit 2.1
Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated December 14, 2020, among Primoris Services Corporation, Future Infrastructure Holdings, LLC, Primoris Merger Sub, LLC and Tower Arch Capital, L.P. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K, as filed with the SEC on December 15, 2020)
Exhibit 2.2
Amendment No 1. to Agreement and Plans of Merger, dated as of January 11, 2021 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.2 to our Current Report on Form 8-K, as filed with the SEC on January 15, 2021)
Exhibit 2.3
Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated June 24, 2022, among Primoris Services Corporation, PLH Group, Inc., Amp Merger Sub, Inc. and Shareholder Representative Services LLC, as Stockholder Representative. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to Primoris’ Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 27, 2022)
Exhibit 3.1
Fifth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Primoris Services Corporation, dated May 4, 2018 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, as filed with the SEC on November 11, 2018)
Exhibit 3.2
Amended and Restated Bylaws of Primoris Services Corporation, as amended December 15, 2021 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K, as filed with the SEC on December 21, 2021)
Exhibit 4.1
Specimen Common Stock Certificate (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to our Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-134694), as filed with the SEC on June 2, 2006)
Exhibit 4.2
Description of Registrant’s Securities (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to our Annual Report on Form 10-K, as filed with the SEC on March 1, 2022)
Exhibit 10.1
2008 Long-Term Equity Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Annex C to our Registration Statement on Form S-4/A (Amendment No. 4) (File No. 333-150343), as filed with the SEC on July 9, 2008) (#)
Exhibit No.
Description
Exhibit 10.2
2013 Equity Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Appendix A to our Definitive Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A filed with the SEC on April 9, 2013) (#)
Exhibit 10.3
General Indemnity Agreement, dated January 24, 2012, by and among Primoris Services Corporation, ARB, Inc. ARB Structures, Inc., OnQuest, Inc., OnQuest Heaters, Inc. Born Heaters Canada ULC, Cardinal Contractors, Inc., Cardinal Southeast, Inc., Stellaris, LLC, GML Coatings, LLC, James Construction Group, LLC, Juniper Rock Corporation, Rockford Corporation; Alaska Continental Pipeline, Inc., All Day Electric Company, Inc. Primoris Renewables, LLC, Rockford Pipelines Canada, Inc. and Chubb Group of Insurance Companies (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.51 to our Annual Report on Form 10-K, as filed with the SEC on March 5, 2012)
Exhibit 10.4
Contribution Agreement, dated as of September 30, 2013, by and among WesPac Energy LLC, Kealine Holdings LLC, Primoris Services Corporation and WesPac Midstream LLC and Highstar WesPac Main Interco LLC and Highstar WesPac Prism/IV-A Interco LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, as filed with the SEC on November 5, 2013)
Exhibit 10.5
Agreement for Services, dated January 1, 2020, by and among Primoris Services Corporation and David King. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.16 to our Annual Report on Form 10-K, as filed with the SEC on February 25, 2020) (#)
Exhibit 10.6
Employment Agreement dated April 1, 2022, by and between Primoris Services Corporation and Tom McCormick (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Primoris’ Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 7, 2022) (#)
Exhibit 10.7
Employment Agreement dated April 1, 2022, by and between Primoris Services Corporation and Ken M. Dodgen (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to Primoris’ Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 7, 2022) (#)
Exhibit 10.8
Employment Agreement dated April 1, 2022, by and between Primoris Services Corporation and John M. Perisich (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to Primoris’ Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 7, 2022) (#)
Exhibit 10.9
2022 Primoris Services Corporation Employee Stock Purchase Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Primoris’ Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 9, 2022) (#)
Exhibit 10.10
Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement by and among Primoris Services Corporation, CIBC Bank USA and the several other financial institutions party thereto. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Primoris’ Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 1, 2022)
Exhibit 10.11
2023 Equity Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K, as filed with the SEC on May 9, 2023).
Exhibit 10.12
John F. Moreno, Jr. Separation Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K, as filed with the SEC on May 26, 2023).
Exhibit 21.1
Subsidiaries and equity investments of Primoris Services Corporation (*)
Exhibit 23.1
Consent of Moss Adams LLP, independent registered public accounting firm (*)
Exhibit No.
Description
Exhibit 31.1
Certification of chief executive officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (*)
Exhibit 31.2
Certification of chief financial officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (*)
Exhibit 32.1
Certification of chief executive officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (**)
Exhibit 32.2
Certification of chief financial officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (**)
Exhibit 97
Dodd-Frank Compensation Recovery Policy (*)
Exhibit 101 INS
Inline XBRL Instance Document - The instance document does not appear in the Interactive Data File because its XBRL tags are embedded within the Inline XBRL document (*)
Exhibit 101 SCH
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document (*)
Exhibit 101 CAL
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document (*)
Exhibit 101 LAB
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document (*)
Exhibit 101 PRE
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document (*)
Exhibit 101 DEF
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document (*)
Exhibit 104
Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as Inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101)
(#)
Management contract or compensatory plan, contract or arrangement.
(*)
Filed herewith.
(**)
This certification will not be deemed “filed” for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or the Exchange Act, or otherwise subject to the liability of that section. Such certification will not be deemed to be incorporated by reference into any filing under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Exchange Act, except to the extent specifically incorporated by reference into such filing.