Athabasca Oil Corporation (TSX: ATH) (“Athabasca” or the “Company”)
is pleased to report its 2022 second quarter results with continued
significant Free Cash Flow and material deleveraging. Athabasca is
uniquely positioned as a low leveraged company generating
significant Free Cash Flow through its low-decline, oil weighted
asset base.
Q2 Corporate Highlights
-
Production: 33,247 boe/d (92% Liquids) consisting
of 26,768 bbl/d in Thermal Oil and 6,479 boe/d (58% Liquids) in
Light Oil. The Company completed a successful turnaround at Leismer
in May and is increasing its annual production guidance to 34,000 –
35,000 boe/d (from prior guidance of 33,000 – 34,000 boe/d) based
on strong underlying asset performance.
-
Capital Expenditures: $51 million focused on
sustaining operations in Thermal Oil.
-
Record Netbacks: $64.77/boe in Light Oil,
$56.78/bbl at Leismer and $53.48/bbl at Hangingstone, supported by
strong commodity prices.
-
Record Cash Flow: Record quarterly Adjusted Funds
Flow1 of $85 million and Free Cash Flow of $34 million. The Company
is now forecasting Adjusted Funds Flow2 of ~$350 million and Free
Cash Flow2 of ~$220 million. Continued cash flow expansion is
expected through 2023 as described below.
-
Significant Deleveraging: Redeemed $167 million
(US$131 million) in Term Debt year to date, achieving 75% of US$175
million debt reduction target which is anticipated to be reached in
H1 2023. The Company has low Net Debt of ~$100 million and expects
to be in a Net Cash position before year end.
Operational Highlights
-
Leismer Development: Current production (22,400
bbl/d in June) is underpinned by the strong ramp up of Pad L8 (5
well pairs) which is producing ~5,500 bbl/d. Strong new well
performance, combined with effective use of non-condensable gas
co-injection on mature pads, is resulting in a current steam oil
ratio of 2.8x (June). The Company recently drilled two infill wells
at Pad L6 and drilling is underway for another five additional well
pairs at Pad L8, with new production expected in 2023. Athabasca
plans to grow Leismer’s production up to the facility’s oil
handling capacity by maintaining its current capital cadence. The
Company is achieving Profit-to-Investment Ratios (NPV/Investment)
of ~10x through this development plan.
-
Hangingstone: Production of ~9,400 bbl/d (June).
Non condensable gas co-injection is resulting in reduced energy
intensity with the steam oil ratio of 3.8x year to date.
-
Light Oil Duvernay and Montney: Three Duvernay
wells at Two Creeks completed in Q1 continue to outperform
expectations with IP90s averaging ~610 boe/d (96% Liquids) for each
well. The Company has a flexible development portfolio of ~850
gross de-risked Montney and Duvernay wells along with strategic
ownership and operatorship of liquids and gas infrastructure.
Footnote: Refer to the “Reader Advisory” section within this news release for additional information on
Non‐GAAP Financial Measures
(e.g. Operating Income/Netbacks, Adjusted Funds
Flow, Free Cash Flow, Net
Debt/Cash) and production disclosure.
1 Cash Flow from Operating Activities of $69
million.2 Pricing Assumptions: realized prices for H1 2022 and
flat pricing of US$95 WTI, US$20 Western Canadian Select “WCS”
heavy differential, C$5.50 AECO, and $0.775 C$/US$ FX for the
balance of 2022.
Strategic Update and Corporate
Outlook
-
Low Decline, Long Life Asset Base. The Company’s
increased production guidance of 34,000 – 35,000 boe/d and a modest
2022 capital program is indicative of long-term sustaining capital
that benefits from a low decline, large resource asset base. The
Company has a deep asset inventory with 1,230 mmbbl 2P Reserves in
Thermal Oil and ~850 gross wells of short cycle-time, high
returning Light Oil Assets. The asset portfolio is demonstrating
its ability to generate significant Free Cash Flow and will provide
tremendous optionality into the future.
-
Managing for Free Cash Flow. For 2022, Athabasca
is increasing its financial forecasts based on strong operational
performance and updated pricing assumptions. Adjusted Funds Flow1
is forecasted to be ~$350 million including Free Cash Flow1 of
~$220 million. The Company further expects to generate ~$950
million in Free Cash Flow during the three year timeframe of
2022-24 (inclusive of 2022 guidance and flat pricing of US$85 WTI
and US$12.50 WCS differentials thereafter). Every $5/bbl WTI change
impacts Free Cash Flow by ~$45 million annually (unhedged). The
Company’s strong margins and Free Cash Flow profile is supported by
$3.1 billion in tax pools and a pre-payout Crown royalty structure
for its Thermal Oil assets.
-
Executing Significant Deleveraging with Clear
Targets: The Company is planning to utilize 100% of
near‐term Free Cash Flow to reduce its Term Debt and is
anticipating being in a Net Cash position before year end 2022.
Year to date the Company has redeemed a total of $167 million
(US$131 million) through open market purchases, equity redemptions
through warrant proceeds and the Free Cash Flow payment feature
within the indenture. This achieves 75% of our US$175 million debt
reduction target which is anticipated to be reached in H1
2023.
-
Excellent Exposure to Commodity Price Upside:
Athabasca has retained excellent exposure to upside in commodity
prices with 50% of its 2022 sales volumes unhedged, 20% of its
sales hedged through collars with upside to US$115 WTI, and 30% of
its sales hedged through fixed swaps at an implied US$74 WTI
(assuming a US$20 WCS differential). The Company has minimal
hedging in 2023 and expects lower future hedge levels relative to
2022 to protect its base capital program as debt targets are
achieved.
-
Thermal Oil Differentiation: Athabasca’s Thermal
assets operate in a pre-payout Crown royalty structure, with
royalty rates between 5 - 9%, and is anticipated to last beyond
2028 (US$85 WTI, US$12.50 WCS differential flat pricing). This
results in maximum cash flow at current commodity prices and
creates a significant advantage over the majority of Industry oil
sands projects. The Company’s low decline, long reserve life
Thermal Oil assets are forecasted to generate ~$500 million in
Operating Income1 in 2022. At current commodity prices, these
assets compete exceptionally well on all cash flow metrics against
top plays in North America with capital investments generating
double-digit Recycle and Profit-to-Investment Ratios.
-
Unlocking Shareholder Value: The transition of
enterprise value to equity holders is materializing and is expected
to unlock significant shareholder value. Athabasca is committed to
further enhancing shareholder returns by utilizing Free Cash Flow
and cash balances for share buy-backs or dividends once its debt
target is achieved. The Company sees tremendous intrinsic value not
reflected in the current share price. Guidance on shareholder
returns and the corporate capital allocation framework will be
provided in the fourth quarter.
1 Pricing Assumptions: realized prices for
H1 2022 and flat pricing of US$95 WTI, US$20 Western Canadian
Select “WCS” heavy differential, C$5.50 AECO, and $0.775 C$/US$ FX
for the balance of 2022.
Financial and Operational
Highlights
|
Three months
endedJune 30, |
|
Six months
endedJune 30, |
|
($ Thousands, unless otherwise noted) |
2022 |
|
|
2021 |
|
|
2022 |
|
|
2021 |
|
|
CONSOLIDATED |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Petroleum and natural gas production (boe/d)(1) |
|
33,247 |
|
|
|
34,659 |
|
|
|
33,958 |
|
|
|
34,531 |
|
|
Petroleum, natural gas and midstream sales |
$ |
435,678 |
|
|
$ |
232,111 |
|
|
$ |
825,102 |
|
|
$ |
443,767 |
|
|
Operating Income (Loss)(1) |
$ |
169,255 |
|
|
$ |
93,196 |
|
|
$ |
319,895 |
|
|
$ |
159,124 |
|
|
Operating Income (Loss) Net of Realized Hedging(1)(2) |
$ |
103,549 |
|
|
$ |
75,372 |
|
|
$ |
206,543 |
|
|
$ |
120,187 |
|
|
Operating Netback ($/boe)(1) |
$ |
57.51 |
|
|
$ |
31.09 |
|
|
$ |
52.26 |
|
|
$ |
26.00 |
|
|
Operating Netback Net of Realized Hedging ($/boe)(1)(2) |
$ |
35.18 |
|
|
$ |
25.14 |
|
|
$ |
33.74 |
|
|
$ |
19.64 |
|
|
Capital expenditures |
$ |
51,191 |
|
|
$ |
22,628 |
|
|
$ |
82,120 |
|
|
$ |
58,182 |
|
|
Free Cash Flow(1) |
$ |
33,608 |
|
|
$ |
27,600 |
|
|
$ |
77,440 |
|
|
$ |
11,007 |
|
|
THERMAL OIL DIVISION |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Bitumen production (bbl/d) |
|
26,768 |
|
|
|
26,433 |
|
|
|
27,335 |
|
|
|
26,193 |
|
|
Petroleum, natural gas and midstream sales |
$ |
399,793 |
|
|
$ |
207,503 |
|
|
$ |
760,074 |
|
|
$ |
394,213 |
|
|
Operating Income (Loss)(1) |
$ |
131,067 |
|
|
$ |
67,568 |
|
|
$ |
251,904 |
|
|
$ |
109,736 |
|
|
Operating Netback ($/bbl)(1) |
$ |
55.68 |
|
|
$ |
30.05 |
|
|
$ |
51.17 |
|
|
$ |
23.81 |
|
|
Capital expenditures |
$ |
43,093 |
|
|
$ |
21,388 |
|
|
$ |
64,275 |
|
|
$ |
54,402 |
|
|
LIGHT OIL DIVISION |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Petroleum and natural gas production (boe/d)(1) |
|
6,479 |
|
|
|
8,226 |
|
|
|
6,623 |
|
|
|
8,338 |
|
|
Percentage Liquids (%)(1) |
58 |
% |
|
57 |
% |
|
57 |
% |
|
57 |
% |
|
Petroleum, natural gas and midstream sales |
$ |
53,825 |
|
|
$ |
36,365 |
|
|
$ |
98,933 |
|
|
$ |
70,937 |
|
|
Operating Income (Loss)(1) |
$ |
38,188 |
|
|
$ |
25,628 |
|
|
$ |
67,991 |
|
|
$ |
49,388 |
|
|
Operating Netback ($/boe)(1) |
$ |
64.77 |
|
|
$ |
34.23 |
|
|
$ |
56.72 |
|
|
$ |
32.72 |
|
|
Capital expenditures |
$ |
1,221 |
|
|
$ |
544 |
|
|
$ |
9,208 |
|
|
$ |
1,512 |
|
|
CASH FLOW AND FUNDS FLOW |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash flow from operating activities |
$ |
68,535 |
|
|
$ |
36,183 |
|
|
$ |
128,397 |
|
|
$ |
37,321 |
|
|
per share - basic |
$ |
0.12 |
|
|
$ |
0.07 |
|
|
$ |
0.23 |
|
|
$ |
0.07 |
|
|
Adjusted Funds Flow(1) |
$ |
84,799 |
|
|
$ |
50,228 |
|
|
$ |
159,560 |
|
|
$ |
69,189 |
|
|
per share - basic |
$ |
0.15 |
|
|
$ |
0.09 |
|
|
$ |
0.29 |
|
|
$ |
0.13 |
|
|
NET INCOME (LOSS) AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net income (loss) and comprehensive income (loss) |
$ |
47,121 |
|
|
$ |
(13,944 |
) |
|
$ |
(72,480 |
) |
|
$ |
(31,416 |
) |
|
per share - basic |
$ |
0.08 |
|
|
$ |
(0.03 |
) |
|
$ |
(0.13 |
) |
|
$ |
(0.06 |
) |
|
per share - diluted |
$ |
0.08 |
|
|
$ |
(0.03 |
) |
|
$ |
(0.13 |
) |
|
$ |
(0.06 |
) |
|
COMMON SHARES OUTSTANDING |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Weighted average shares outstanding - basic |
|
568,728,441 |
|
|
|
530,675,391 |
|
|
|
550,013,742 |
|
|
|
530,675,391 |
|
|
Weighted average shares outstanding - diluted |
|
585,934,027 |
|
|
|
530,675,391 |
|
|
|
550,013,742 |
|
|
|
530,675,391 |
|
|
|
June 30, |
|
December 31, |
|
As at ($ Thousands) |
2022 |
|
2021 |
|
LIQUIDITY AND BALANCE SHEET |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash and cash equivalents |
$ |
154,172 |
|
$ |
223,056 |
|
Available credit facilities(3) |
$ |
77,838 |
|
$ |
77,844 |
|
Face value of term debt(4) |
$ |
291,881 |
|
$ |
443,730 |
|
(1) Refer to the “Reader Advisory” section
within this news release for additional information on Non-GAAP
Financial Measures and production disclosure.(2) Includes realized
commodity risk management loss of $65.7 million and $113.4 million
for the three and six months ended June 30, 2022 (three and six
months ended June 30, 2021 – loss of $17.8 million and $38.9
million).(3) Includes available credit under Athabasca's Credit
Facility and Unsecured Letter of Credit Facility.(4) The face value
of the term debt at June 30, 2022 was US$227 million (December 31,
2021 – US$350 million) translated into Canadian dollars at the June
30, 2022 exchange rate of US$1.00 =C$1.2886 (December 31, 2021 –
C$1.2678).
Operations Update
Thermal Oil
Bitumen production for Q2 2022 averaged 26,768
bbl/d. The Thermal Oil division generated Operating Income of $131
million. Q2 2022 Operating Netbacks for Leismer and Hangingstone
were a record $56.78/bbl and $53.48/bbl, respectively. Capital
expenditures were $43 million.
For 2022, Athabasca has fully hedged its Thermal
Oil gas input costs through its Light Oil gas production with the
balance financially hedged at ~C$4/mcf AECO. The Company has also
commenced hedging its gas input costs for 2023 locking in 10 mmcf/d
at ~C$5.50/mcf.
Leismer
Bitumen production for the second quarter
averaged 17,436 bbl/d inclusive of downtime related to the planned
facility turnaround in May which was completed on time and within
budget. With a peak workforce of ~550 people completing ~92,000
hours of work, Athabasca is pleased to report no lost time
incidents and no reportable spills. The safety of our people is a
top priority and our results showcase the deeply embedded safety
culture within the organization.
At Pad L8, all five sustaining well pairs have
been converted to production. The initial production ramp-up has
exceeded management expectations and the pad is producing ~5,500
bbl/d. In June, the Company drilled two additional infill wells at
Pad L6 and drilling is underway on five additional well pairs at
Pad L8. These wells are expected to support production in 2023 and
the sustaining pads have unparalleled Profit-to-Investment Ratios
(NPV/Investment) of ~10x and double-digit Recycle Ratios (US$85
WTI, US$12.50 WCS differentials).
Leismer’s current production is ~22,400 bbl/d
(June) with ~50% of volumes attributed to newer vintage production
(Pad L7 and L8). Strong new well performance, combined with
effective use of non-condensable gas co-injection on mature pads,
is resulting in a current steam oil ratio of 2.8x (June). The
percentage of newer vintage production is expected to grow with the
current development plans and underpins the assets low decline
rate. Athabasca plans to grow Leismer’s production up to the
facility’s oil handling capacity by maintaining its current capital
cadence of approximately one sustaining pad per year. Leismer has
regulatory approval for expansion to 40,000 bbl/d which would
require debottlenecking the facility and drilling incremental well
pairs.
Leismer has a significant Unrecovered Capital
Balance of $1.6 billion which ensures a low Crown royalty framework
as the asset is forecasted to remain pre-payout until 2028 (US$85
WTI, US$12.50 WCS differential).
Hangingstone
Bitumen production for the second quarter
averaged 9,332 bbl/d. Reservoir performance continues to be
supported by strong facility runtime and non-condensable gas
co-injection which is aiding in pressure support and reduced energy
usage. Hangingstone’s steam oil ratio has averaged 3.8x year to
date.
In 2022, Hangingstone will have no capital
allocation other than routine pump replacements. Strong operational
performance, cost enhancements and improved commodity prices are
driving competitive margins. The Hangingstone asset is expected to
generate ~$130 million of Operating Income1 in 2022.
1 Pricing Assumptions: realized prices for
H1 2022 and flat pricing of US$95 WTI, US$20 Western Canadian
Select “WCS” heavy differential, C$5.50 AECO, and $0.775 C$/US$ FX
for the balance of 2022.
Light Oil
Production averaged 6,479 boe/d (58% Liquids)
for Q2 2022. The Light Oil division generated Operating Income of
$38 million with a record Operating Netback of $64.77/boe. Capital
expenditures were $1.2 million and included two facility
turnarounds at Kaybob West and Kaybob East.
Placid Montney
At Greater Placid, production averaged 3,275
boe/d (42% Liquids) during the second quarter with an Operating
Netback of $55.40/boe. Placid is positioned for flexible future
development with an inventory of ~150 gross drilling locations and
minimal near-term land retention requirements.
Kaybob Duvernay
At Greater Kaybob, production averaged 3,204
boe/d (74% Liquids) during the second quarter with an Operating
Netback of $64.77/boe.
Three Duvernay wells in the oil window at Two
Creeks were completed early in the year with IP90’s for the wells
between 480 – 770 boe/d (averaging 610 boe/d, 96% Liquids).
Athabasca’s prior 12 wells at Kaybob East and Two Creeks have
average IP365s of ~550 boe/d (83% Liquids). Strong well results
coupled with a large well inventory (~700 gross drilling locations)
and flexible development timing is indicative of significant value
to Athabasca.
The Kaybob area is supported by a strong Joint
Development Agreement, established operated infrastructure and
minimal near-term land retention requirements. The Company remains
encouraged by competitor activity and recent new entrants into the
play. Minimal capital activity is planned for the remainder of 2022
with operations focused on facility maintenance and readiness for
future optionality.
About Athabasca Oil
Corporation
Athabasca Oil Corporation is a Canadian energy
company with a focused strategy on the development of thermal and
light oil assets. Situated in Alberta’s Western Canadian
Sedimentary Basin, the Company has amassed a significant land base
of extensive, high quality resources. Athabasca’s common shares
trade on the TSX under the symbol “ATH”. For more information,
visit www.atha.com.
For more information, please contact: |
|
Matthew Taylor |
Robert Broen |
Chief Financial Officer |
President and CEO |
1-403-817-9104 |
1-403-817-9190 |
mtaylor@atha.com |
rbroen@atha.com |
Reader Advisory:
This News Release contains forward-looking
information that involves various risks, uncertainties and other
factors. All information other than statements of historical fact
is forward-looking information. The use of any of the words
“anticipate”, “plan”, “continue”, “estimate”, “expect”, “may”,
“will”, “target”, “forecast”, “goal”, “aspiration”, “commit” and
similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking
information. The forward-looking information is not historical
fact, but rather is based on the Company’s current plans,
objectives, goals, strategies, estimates, assumptions and
projections about the Company’s industry, business and future
operating and financial results. This information involves known
and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause
actual results or events to differ materially from those
anticipated in such forward-looking information. No assurance can
be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such
forward-looking information included in this News Release should
not be unduly relied upon. This information speaks only as of the
date of this News Release. In particular, this News Release
contains forward-looking information pertaining to, but not limited
to, the following: our strategic plans; future debt levels and
repayment plans; the allocation of future capital; timing for
shareholder returns including share buybacks and dividends; our
drilling plans in Leismer; Leismer ramp-up to expected production
rates; timing of Leismer’s pre-payout royalty status; expected
operating results at Hangingstone; Net Debt/Cash positions;
Adjusted Funds Flow and Free Cash Flow in 2022; the impact of lower
future hedge levels; type well economic metrics; forecasted daily
production and the composition of production; and other
matters.
In addition, information and statements in this
News Release relating to "Reserves" and “Resources” are deemed to
be forward-looking information, as they involve the implied
assessment, based on certain estimates and assumptions, that the
reserves and resources described exist in the quantities predicted
or estimated, and that the reserves and resources described can be
profitably produced in the future. With respect to forward-looking
information contained in this News Release, assumptions have been
made regarding, among other things: commodity prices; the
regulatory framework governing royalties, taxes and environmental
matters in the jurisdictions in which the Company conducts and will
conduct business and the effects that such regulatory framework
will have on the Company, including on the Company’s financial
condition and results of operations; the Company’s financial and
operational flexibility; the Company’s financial sustainability;
Athabasca's cash flow break-even commodity price; the Company’s
ability to obtain qualified staff and equipment in a timely and
cost-efficient manner; the applicability of technologies for the
recovery and production of the Company’s reserves and resources;
future capital expenditures to be made by the Company; future
sources of funding for the Company’s capital programs; the
Company’s future debt levels; future production levels; the
Company’s ability to obtain financing and/or enter into joint
venture arrangements, on acceptable terms; operating costs;
compliance of counterparties with the terms of contractual
arrangements; impact of increasing competition globally; collection
risk of outstanding accounts receivable from third parties;
geological and engineering estimates in respect of the Company’s
reserves and resources; recoverability of reserves and resources;
the geography of the areas in which the Company is conducting
exploration and development activities and the quality of its
assets. Certain other assumptions related to the Company’s Reserves
and Resources are contained in the report of McDaniel &
Associates Consultants Ltd. (“McDaniel”) evaluating Athabasca’s
Proved Reserves, Probable Reserves and Contingent Resources as at
December 31, 2021 (which is respectively referred to herein as the
"McDaniel Report”).
Actual results could differ materially from
those anticipated in this forward-looking information as a result
of the risk factors set forth in the Company’s Annual Information
Form (“AIF”) dated March 2, 2022 available on SEDAR at
www.sedar.com, including, but not limited to: weakness in the oil
and gas industry; exploration, development and production risks;
prices, markets and marketing; market conditions; climate change
and carbon pricing risk; statutes and regulations regarding the
environment; regulatory environment and changes in applicable law;
gathering and processing facilities, pipeline systems and rail;
reputation and public perception of the oil and gas sector;
environment, social and governance goals; political uncertainty;
continued impact of the COVID-19 pandemic; state of capital
markets; ability to finance capital requirements; access to capital
and insurance; abandonment and reclamation costs; changing demand
for oil and natural gas products; anticipated benefits of
acquisitions and dispositions; royalty regimes; foreign exchange
rates and interest rates; reserves; hedging; operational
dependence; operating costs; project risks; supply chain
disruption; financial assurances; diluent supply; third party
credit risk; indigenous claims; reliance on key personnel and
operators; income tax; cybersecurity; advanced technologies;
hydraulic fracturing; liability management; seasonality and weather
conditions; unexpected events; internal controls; limitations of
insurance; litigation; natural gas overlying bitumen resources;
competition; chain of title and expiration of licenses and leases;
breaches of confidentiality; new industry related activities or new
geographical areas; and risks related to our debt and
securities.
Also included in this News Release are estimates
of Athabasca's 2022 Outlook which are based on the various
assumptions as to production levels, commodity prices, currency
exchange rates and other assumptions disclosed in this News
Release. To the extent any such estimate constitutes a financial
outlook, it was approved by management and the Board of Directors
of Athabasca, and is included to provide readers with an
understanding of the Company’s outlook. Management does not have
firm commitments for all of the costs, expenditures, prices or
other financial assumptions used to prepare the financial outlook
or assurance that such operating results will be achieved and,
accordingly, the complete financial effects of all of those costs,
expenditures, prices and operating results are not objectively
determinable. The actual results of operations of the Company and
the resulting financial results may vary from the amounts set forth
herein, and such variations may be material. The financial outlook
contained in this New Release was made as of the date of this News
release and the Company disclaims any intention or obligations to
update or revise such financial outlook, whether as a result of new
information, future events or otherwise, unless required pursuant
to applicable law.
Oil and Gas Information
“BOEs" may be misleading, particularly if used
in isolation. A BOE conversion ratio of six thousand cubic feet of
natural gas to one barrel of oil equivalent (6 Mcf: 1 bbl) is based
on an energy equivalency conversion method primarily applicable at
the burner tip and does not represent a value equivalency at the
wellhead. As the value ratio between natural gas and crude oil
based on the current prices of natural gas and crude oil is
significantly different from the energy equivalency of 6:1,
utilizing a conversion on a 6:1 basis may be misleading as an
indication of value.
Initial Production Rates
Test Results and Initial Production Rates: The
well test results and initial production rates provided in this
presentation should be considered to be preliminary, except as
otherwise indicated. Test results and initial production rates
disclosed herein may not necessarily be indicative of long-term
performance or of ultimate recovery.
Reserves Information
The McDaniel Report was prepared using the
assumptions and methodology guidelines outlined in the COGE
Handbook and in accordance with National Instrument 51-101
Standards of Disclosure for Oil and Gas Activities, effective
December 31, 2021. There are numerous uncertainties inherent in
estimating quantities of bitumen, light crude oil and medium crude
oil, tight oil, conventional natural gas, shale gas and natural gas
liquids reserves and the future cash flows attributed to such
reserves. The reserve and associated cash flow information set
forth above are estimates only. In general, estimates of
economically recoverable reserves and the future net cash flows
therefrom are based upon a number of variable factors and
assumptions, such as historical production from the properties,
production rates, ultimate reserve recovery, timing and amount of
capital expenditures, marketability of oil and natural gas, royalty
rates, the assumed effects of regulation by governmental agencies
and future operating costs, all of which may vary materially. For
those reasons, estimates of the economically recoverable reserves
attributable to any particular group of properties, classification
of such reserves based on risk of recovery and estimates of future
net revenues associated with reserves prepared by different
engineers, or by the same engineers at different times, may vary.
The Company's actual production, revenues, taxes and development
and operating expenditures with respect to its reserves will vary
from estimates thereof and such variations could be material.
Reserves figures described herein have been rounded to the nearest
MMbbl or MMboe. For additional information regarding the
consolidated reserves and information concerning the resources of
the Company as evaluated by McDaniel in the McDaniel Report, please
refer to the Company’s AIF.
Reserve Values (i.e. Net Asset Value) is
calculated using the estimated net present value of all future net
revenue from our reserves, before income taxes discounted at 10%,
as estimated by McDaniel effective December 31, 2021 and based on
average pricing of McDaniel, Sproule and GLJ as of January 1,
2022.
The 700 gross Duvernay drilling locations
referenced include: 7 proved undeveloped locations and 78 probable
undeveloped locations for a total of 85 booked locations with the
balance being unbooked locations. The 150 gross Montney drilling
locations referenced include: 39 proved undeveloped locations and
59 probable undeveloped locations for a total of 98 booked
locations with the balance being unbooked locations. Proved
undeveloped locations and probable undeveloped locations are booked
and derived from the Company's most recent independent reserves
evaluation as prepared by McDaniel as of December 31, 2021 and
account for drilling locations that have associated proved and/or
probable reserves, as applicable. Unbooked locations are internal
management estimates. Unbooked locations do not have attributed
reserves or resources (including contingent or prospective).
Unbooked locations have been identified by management as an
estimation of Athabasca’s multi-year drilling activities expected
to occur over the next two decades based on evaluation of
applicable geologic, seismic, engineering, production and reserves
information. There is no certainty that the Company will drill all
unbooked drilling locations and if drilled there is no certainty
that such locations will result in additional oil and gas reserves,
resources or production. The drilling locations on which the
Company will actually drill wells, including the number and timing
thereof is ultimately dependent upon the availability of funding,
commodity prices, provincial fiscal and royalty policies, costs,
actual drilling results, additional reservoir information that is
obtained and other factors.
Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures,
and Production Disclosure
The "Adjusted Funds Flow", “Adjusted Funds Flow
per Share”, “Free Cash Flow”, "Light Oil Operating Income", "Light
Oil Operating Netback", "Thermal Oil Operating Income", "Thermal
Oil Operating Netback", “Consolidated Operating Income",
"Consolidated Operating Netback", "Consolidated Operating Income
Net of Realized Hedging", "Consolidated Operating Netback Net of
Realized Hedging", “Cash Transportation & Marketing Expenses”
and “Net Debt/Cash” financial measures contained in this News
Release do not have standardized meanings which are prescribed by
IFRS and they are considered to be non-GAAP financial measures or
ratios. These measures may not be comparable to similar measures
presented by other issuers and should not be considered in
isolation with measures that are prepared in accordance with IFRS.
The Leismer and Hangingstone operating results are a supplementary
financial measure that when aggregated, combine to the Thermal Oil
segment results and the Greater Placid and Greater Kaybob operating
results are a supplementary financial measure that when aggregated,
combine to the Light Oil segment results.
Adjusted Funds Flow, Adjusted Funds Flow Per
Share and Free Cash Flow
Adjusted Funds Flow and Free Cash Flow are
non-GAAP financial measures and are not intended to represent cash
flow from operating activities, net earnings or other measures of
financial performance calculated in accordance with IFRS. The
Adjusted Funds Flow and Free Cash Flow measures allow management
and others to evaluate the Company’s ability to fund its capital
programs and meet its ongoing financial obligations using cash flow
internally generated from ongoing operating related activities.
Adjusted Funds Flow per share is a non-GAAP financial ratio
calculated as Adjusted Funds Flow divided by the applicable number
of weighted average shares outstanding. Adjusted Funds Flow and
Free Cash Flow are calculated as follows:
|
Three months
endedJune 30, |
|
Six months
endedJune 30, |
|
($ Thousands) |
2022 |
|
2021 |
|
2022 |
|
2021 |
|
Cash flow from operating activities |
$ |
68,535 |
|
$ |
36,183 |
|
$ |
128,397 |
|
$ |
37,321 |
|
Changes in non-cash working capital |
|
16,353 |
|
|
13,982 |
|
|
30,706 |
|
|
30,502 |
|
Settlement of provisions |
|
(89 |
) |
|
63 |
|
|
457 |
|
|
1,366 |
|
ADJUSTED FUNDS FLOW |
|
84,799 |
|
|
50,228 |
|
|
159,560 |
|
|
69,189 |
|
Capital expenditures |
|
(51,191 |
) |
|
(22,628 |
) |
|
(82,120 |
) |
|
(58,182 |
) |
FREE CASH FLOW |
$ |
33,608 |
|
$ |
27,600 |
|
$ |
77,440 |
|
$ |
11,007 |
|
Light Oil Operating Income and Operating
Netback
The non-GAAP measure Light Oil Operating Income
in this News Release is calculated by subtracting the Light Oil
Segments royalties, operating expenses and transportation &
marketing expenses from petroleum and natural gas sales which is
the most directly comparable GAAP measure. The Light Oil Operating
Netback per boe is a non-GAAP financial ratio calculated by
dividing the Light Oil Operating Income by the Light Oil
production. The Light Oil Operating Income and the Light Oil
Operating Netback measures allow management and others to evaluate
the production results from the Company’s Light Oil assets. The
Light Oil Operating Income is calculated using the Light Oil
Segments GAAP results, as follows:
|
Three months
endedJune 30, |
|
Six months
endedJune 30, |
|
($ Thousands) |
2022 |
|
2021 |
|
2022 |
|
2021 |
|
Petroleum and natural gas sales |
$ |
53,825 |
|
$ |
36,365 |
|
$ |
98,933 |
|
$ |
70,937 |
|
Royalties |
|
(5,610 |
) |
|
(2,205 |
) |
|
(11,479 |
) |
|
(4,058 |
) |
Operating expenses |
|
(7,743 |
) |
|
(5,928 |
) |
|
(14,722 |
) |
|
(12,640 |
) |
Transportation and marketing |
|
(2,284 |
) |
|
(2,604 |
) |
|
(4,741 |
) |
|
(4,851 |
) |
LIGHT OIL OPERATING INCOME |
$ |
38,188 |
|
$ |
25,628 |
|
$ |
67,991 |
|
$ |
49,388 |
|
Thermal Oil Operating Income and Operating Netback
The non-GAAP measure Thermal Oil Operating
Income in this News Release is calculated by subtracting the
Thermal Oil segments cost of diluent blending, royalties, operating
expenses and cash transportation & marketing expenses from
heavy oil (blended bitumen) and midstream sales which is the most
directly comparable GAAP measure. The Thermal Oil Operating Netback
per boe is a non-GAAP financial ratio calculated by dividing the
respective projects Operating Income by its respective bitumen
sales volumes. The Thermal Oil Operating Income and the Thermal Oil
Operating Netback measures allow management and others to evaluate
the production results from the Company’s Thermal Oil assets.
The Thermal Oil Operating Income is calculated
using the Thermal Oil Segments GAAP results, as follows:
|
Three months
endedJune 30, |
|
Six months
endedJune 30, |
|
($ Thousands) |
2022 |
|
2021 |
|
2022 |
|
2021 |
|
Heavy oil (blended bitumen) and midstream sales |
$ |
399,793 |
|
$ |
207,503 |
|
$ |
760,074 |
|
$ |
394,213 |
|
Cost of diluent |
|
(141,685 |
) |
|
(82,728 |
) |
|
(281,596 |
) |
|
(165,922 |
) |
Total bitumen and midstream sales |
|
258,108 |
|
|
124,775 |
|
|
478,478 |
|
|
228,291 |
|
Royalties |
|
(55,911 |
) |
|
(4,395 |
) |
|
(88,407 |
) |
|
(6,567 |
) |
Operating expenses |
|
(51,442 |
) |
|
(34,469 |
) |
|
(96,938 |
) |
|
(72,273 |
) |
Cash transportation and marketing(1) |
|
(19,688 |
) |
|
(18,343 |
) |
|
(41,229 |
) |
|
(39,715 |
) |
THERMAL OIL OPERATING INCOME |
$ |
131,067 |
|
$ |
67,568 |
|
$ |
251,904 |
|
$ |
109,736 |
|
(1) Cash transportation and marketing
excludes non-cash costs of $0.6 million and $1.1 million for the
three and six months ended June 30, 2022.
Consolidated Operating Income and Consolidated
Operating Income Net of Realized Hedging and Operating Netbacks
The non-GAAP measure Consolidated Operating
Income in this News Release is calculated by adding or subtracting
realized gains (losses) on commodity risk management contracts,
royalties, the cost of diluent blending, operating expenses and
cash transportation & marketing expenses from petroleum,
natural gas and midstream sales which is the most directly
comparable GAAP measure. The Consolidated Operating Netback per boe
is a non-GAAP ratio calculated by dividing Consolidated Operating
Income by the total sales volumes and is presented on a per boe
basis. The Consolidated Operating Income and the Consolidated
Operating Netback measures allow management and others to evaluate
the production results from the Company’s Light Oil and Thermal Oil
assets combined together including the impact of realized commodity
risk management gains or losses.
|
Three months
endedJune 30, |
|
Six months
endedJune 30, |
|
($ Thousands) |
2022 |
|
2021 |
|
2022 |
|
2021 |
|
Petroleum, natural gas and midstream sales(1) |
$ |
453,618 |
|
$ |
243,868 |
|
$ |
859,007 |
|
$ |
465,150 |
|
Royalties |
|
(61,521 |
) |
|
(6,600 |
) |
|
(99,886 |
) |
|
(10,625 |
) |
Cost of diluent(1) |
|
(141,685 |
) |
|
(82,728 |
) |
|
(281,596 |
) |
|
(165,922 |
) |
Operating expenses |
|
(59,185 |
) |
|
(40,397 |
) |
|
(111,660 |
) |
|
(84,913 |
) |
Cash transportation and marketing(2) |
|
(21,972 |
) |
|
(20,947 |
) |
|
(45,970 |
) |
|
(44,566 |
) |
Operating Income |
|
169,255 |
|
|
93,196 |
|
|
319,895 |
|
|
159,124 |
|
Realized gain (loss) on commodity risk management contracts |
|
(66,706 |
) |
|
(17,824 |
) |
|
(113,352 |
) |
|
(38,937 |
) |
OPERATING INCOME NET OF REALIZED HEDGING |
$ |
103,549 |
|
$ |
75,372 |
|
$ |
206,543 |
|
$ |
120,187 |
|
(1) Non-GAAP measure includes intercompany
NGLs (i.e. condensate) sold by the Light Oil segment to the Thermal
Oil segment for use as diluent that is eliminated on
consolidation.(2) Cash transportation and marketing excludes
non-cash costs of $0.6 million and $1.1 million for the three and
six months ended June 30, 2022.
Cash Transportation & Marketing Expenses
The Cash Transportation & Marketing Expense
financial measure contained in this News Release is calculated by
subtracting the non-cash Transportation & Marketing Expense as
reported in the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows from the
Transportation & Marketing Expense as reported in the
Consolidated Statement of Income (Loss) and is considered to be a
non-GAAP financial measure.
Net Debt/Cash
Net Debt/Cash is defined as the face value of
term debt, plus accounts payable and accrued liabilities, plus
current portion of provisions and other liabilities less current
assets, and excluding risk management contracts.
Production volumes details
|
Three months
endedJune 30, |
|
Six months
endedJune 30, |
|
($ Thousands) |
2022 |
|
2021 |
|
2022 |
|
2021 |
|
Greater Placid: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Condensate NGLs |
bbl/d |
1,002 |
|
|
1,440 |
|
|
1,051 |
|
|
1,489 |
|
Other NGLs |
bbl/d |
384 |
|
|
569 |
|
|
410 |
|
|
515 |
|
Natural gas(1) |
mcf/d |
11,337 |
|
|
15,174 |
|
|
11,750 |
|
|
15,385 |
|
Total Greater Placid |
boe/d |
3,275 |
|
|
4,538 |
|
|
3,419 |
|
|
4,568 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Greater Kaybob: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Oil(2) |
bbl/d |
2,019 |
|
|
2,285 |
|
|
1,995 |
|
|
2,397 |
|
Other NGLs |
bbl/d |
353 |
|
|
384 |
|
|
338 |
|
|
356 |
|
Natural gas(1) |
mcf/d |
4,988 |
|
|
6,116 |
|
|
5,224 |
|
|
6,099 |
|
Total Greater Kaybob |
boe/d |
3,204 |
|
|
3,688 |
|
|
3,204 |
|
|
3,770 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Light Oil: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Oil(2) |
bbl/d |
2,019 |
|
|
2,285 |
|
|
1,995 |
|
|
2,397 |
|
Condensate NGLs |
bbl/d |
1,002 |
|
|
1,440 |
|
|
1,051 |
|
|
1,489 |
|
Oil and condensate NGLs |
bbl/d |
3,021 |
|
|
3,725 |
|
|
3,046 |
|
|
3,886 |
|
Other NGLs |
bbl/d |
737 |
|
|
953 |
|
|
748 |
|
|
871 |
|
Natural gas(1) |
mcf/d |
16,325 |
|
|
21,290 |
|
|
16,974 |
|
|
21,484 |
|
Total Light Oil division |
boe/d |
6,479 |
|
|
8,226 |
|
|
6,623 |
|
|
8,338 |
|
Total Thermal Oil division bitumen |
bbl/d |
26,768 |
|
|
26,433 |
|
|
27,335 |
|
|
26,193 |
|
Total Company production |
boe/d |
33,247 |
|
|
34,659 |
|
|
33,958 |
|
|
34,531 |
|
(1) Comprised of 99% or greater of shale gas,
with the remaining being conventional natural gas.
(2) Comprised of 99% or greater of tight oil, with the
remaining being light and medium crude oil.
This News Release also makes reference to
Athabasca's forecasted total average daily production of 34,000 –
35,000 boe/d for 2022. Athabasca expects that ~82% of that
production will be comprised of bitumen, 8% shale gas, 5% tight
oil, 3% condensate natural gas liquids and 2% other natural gas
liquids.
This News Release makes reference to Athabasca's
three well results in Two Creeks that have seen average
productivity of 610 boe/d IP90s (96% Liquids), which is comprised
of ~94% tight oil, ~5% shale gas and ~1% NGLs. Additionally, the 12
prior Two Creeks and Kaybob East wells have seen average
productivity of ~550 boe/d IP365s (83% Liquids), which is comprised
of ~80% tight oil, ~15% shale gas and ~5% NGLs.
Liquids is defined as bitumen, light crude oil,
medium crude oil and natural gas liquids.
Recycle ratio is calculated by dividing
estimated project operating netbacks by finding and development
costs per boe. Profit-to-Investment Ratio is a measure of a
projects net value relative to its capital investment and is
calculated by dividing a project's NPV10 value by its Capital.
Reserve life is calculated by dividing year-end reserves with
management’s forecasted production guidance.
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