TIDMSEPL
RNS Number : 6206R
Seplat Energy PLC
30 October 2023
Please see the Full Audited Results in attached PDF
http://www.rns-pdf.londonstockexchange.com/rns/6206R_1-2023-10-29.pdf
Unaudited results for the nine months ended
30 September 2023
30 October 2023
Lagos and London, 30 October 2023: Seplat Energy PLC ("Seplat
Energy" or "the Company"), a leading Nigerian independent energy
company listed on both the Nigerian Exchange and the London Stock
Exchange, announces its unaudited results for the nine months ended
30 September 2023.
Summary
9M 2023 production averaged 48,152 boepd, up 11% on 9M 2022,
with liquids production up 17%. Operations benefited from improved
uptime at Forcados Oil Terminal and availability of the
Amukpe-Escravos pipeline, supporting strong revenue, modestly
offset by higher costs. Robust cash generation, further
strengthening our balance sheet.
Financial highlights
-- Revenue up 31.0% to $810.4 million (including an overlift of
$127.8 million) from $618.6m in 9M 2022 (including an underlift
of $60.3 million). Adjusted revenue was flat YoY as improved
production mitigated lower oil price realisations.
-- Average realised oil price $82.76/bbl (9M 2022: $108.25/bbl);
average gas price improved to $2.87/Mscf (9M 2022: $2.80/Mscf).
-- Unit production opex of $9.7/boe, (9M 2022: $9.3/boe).
-- Cash generation of $365.1 million, flat YoY, funding capex of
$125.4 million.
-- Balance sheet strengthened in the quarter, $391.0 million cash
at bank (9M 2022: $305 million), $128 million MPNU cash deposit
not included.
-- Net debt at end September fell to $347.6 million (9M 2022: $452.2
million), a further $11 million of RBL borrowings were repaid
in 3Q 2023 ($22 million YTD). Net Debt to TTM EBITDA improved
to 0.9x.
-- Q3 2023 dividend declared of US3 cents per share, in line with
higher core annual dividend of US 12 cents .
Operational highlights
-- Production increased to 48,152 boepd, up 11% (9M 2022: 43,337
boepd), slightly down on 6M 2023 given outages on export infrastructure
in 3Q. Group production deferment at 31% down from 37% in the
same period last year.
-- Issues with the Antan-Ebocha line were resolved allowing production
to resume at the Jisike field (OML53) in August.
-- ANOH first gas now expected in 3Q-2024. Further delays during
construction of the project, particularly the two critical infrastructure
projects managed by third parties: OB3 pipeline and Spur line.
-- Carbon emissions intensity: 26.0 kg CO2/boe. Three of four Sapele
AG compressors have now been commissioned.
-- Achieved more than 6.4 million hours without Lost Time Injury
(LTI) at Seplat-operated assets.
Corporate updates
-- Full year production guidance narrowed to 46-50 kboepd, inside
the original guidance range of 45-55 kboepd.
-- Full year capex guidance narrowed to $160-180 million, run rate
capex in 4Q23 is expected to be modestly higher than the prior
quarter due to project milestone payments.
-- Increasing confidence that President Tinubu's administration
will approve our acquisition of ExxonMobil's share capital of
Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited (MPNU).
Roger Brown, Chief Executive Officer, said:
"Seplat Energy's operational performance was strong in the third
quarter, particularly September which mitigated some of the outages
experienced on third party infrastructure and supported production
growth of 11% on the same period in 2022.
Our balance sheet remains strong and thanks to higher commodity
pricing and our proactive approach to cash management, we have
generated more than $170m in free cash flow year to date. Our focus
for the rest of 2023 is on safe and reliable operations, revenue
assurance and cost management, all of which will deliver further
strengthening of our cash position. This keeps us on track for an
excellent year that will support the increased quarterly dividends
we announced in April and allow us to continue our commitment to
reward shareholders.
Following the serious incident on the Depthwize Majestic rig,
which resulted in the tragic loss of life, we have provided
significant support to Depthwize, its owner, in its recovery
operation. Our own investigations are ongoing, but I can assure all
stakeholders of our unwavering commitment to safety on all of our
operations.
Ongoing third-party delays to ANOH's export infrastructure
remain a source of frustration, but we are confident that the
quality of the project will support dividend growth for Seplat in
the coming years as we diversify the business and deliver on our
strategy to provide more affordable energy for Nigeria.
We remain confident that we can conclude our transformational
acquisition of MPNU. We wholly align with and support President
Tinubu's efforts to make Nigeria a more attractive place to invest,
and we will play our part by delivering affordable and reliable
energy that will support our nation's growth."
Summary of performance
$ million billion
9 M 2023 9M 2022 % Change 9 M 2023 9M 2022
Revenue * 810.4 618.6 31.0% 478.1 258.7
Gross profit 416.3 283.4 46.9% 245.6 118.5
EBITDA ** 306.4 337.9 ( 9.3 %) 1 80.8 141.3
Operating profit (loss) 154.8 235.9 (34.4%) 91.3 98.6
Profit (loss) before tax 106.5 185.2 (42.5%) 62.9 77.5
Cash generated from operations 365.1 368.1 (0.8%) 215.4 154.0
Working interest production (boepd) 48,152 43,337 11.1%
Volumes lifted (MMbbls) *** 8.7 4.9 77.6%
Average realised oil price ($/bbl.) $82.76 $108.25 (23.5%)
Average realised gas price ($/Mscf) $2.87 $2.80 2.5%
LTIF 0 0
CO2 emissions intensity
from operated assets, kg/boe 26.0 22.8 14.0%
===================================== ========= ======== ========= ========= ========
* 9M 2023 revenue includes an overlift of $127.8m, 9M22 revenue
includes an underlift of $60.3m
** Adjusted for non-cash items
*** Volumes lifted in 9M 2023 includes 1.28 MMbbls of
overlift
Responsibility for publication
This announcement has been authorised for publication on behalf
of Seplat Energy by Emeka Onwuka, Chief Financial Officer, Seplat
Energy PLC.
Signed:
Emeka Onwuka
Chief Financial Officer
Important notice
The information contained within this announcement is unaudited and deemed by the Company
to constitute inside information as stipulated under Market Abuse Regulations. Upon the publication
of this announcement via Regulatory Information Services, this inside information is now considered
to be in the public domain.
Certain statements included in these results contain forward-looking information concerning
Seplat Energy's strategy, operations, financial performance or condition, outlook, growth
opportunities or circumstances in the countries, sectors, or markets in which Seplat Energy
operates. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve uncertainty because they depend
on future circumstances and relate to events of which not all are within Seplat Energy's control
or can be predicted by Seplat Energy. Although Seplat Energy believes that the expectations
and opinions reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, no assurance can
be given that such expectations and opinions will prove to have been correct. Actual results
and market conditions could differ materially from those set out in the forward-looking statements.
No part of these results constitutes, or shall be taken to constitute, an invitation or inducement
to invest in Seplat Energy or any other entity and must not be relied upon in any way in connection
with any investment decision. Seplat Energy undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking
statements, whether because of new information, future events or otherwise, except to the
extent legally required.
Enquiries:
Seplat Energy Plc
Emeka Onwuka, Chief Financial Officer +234 1 277 0400
Eleanor Adaralegbe, CFO Designate
James Thompson, Head of Investor Relations
Ayeesha Aliyu, Investor Relations
Chioma Afe, Director, External Affairs & Sustainability
========================================================= ================================
FTI Consulting
Ben Brewerton / Christopher Laing +44 203 727 1000
seplatenergy@fticonsulting.com
========================================================= ================================
Citigroup Global Markets Limited
Luke Spells / Peter Catterall +44 207 986 4000
========================================================= ================================
Investec Bank plc
Chris Sim / Charles Craven +44 207 597 4000
========================================================= ================================
About Seplat Energy
Seplat Energy PLC (Seplat) is Nigeria's leading indigenous
energy company. Listed on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX:
SEPLAT) and the Main Market of the London Stock Exchange (LSE:
SEPL), we are pursuing a Nigeria-focused growth strategy in oil and
gas, as well as developing a Power & New Energy business to
lead Nigeria's energy transition.
Seplat's energy portfolio consists of seven oil and gas blocks
in the prolific Niger Delta region of Nigeria, which we operate
with partners including the Nigerian Government and other oil
producers. We also have a revenue interest in OML 55. We operate a
465MMscfd gas processing plant at Oben, in OML4, and are building
the 300MMscfd ANOH Gas Processing Plant in OML53 and a new 85MMscfd
gas processing plant at Sapele in OML41, to augment our position as
a leading supplier of gas to the domestic power generation market.
https://www.seplatenergy.com/
Operating review
Group production performance
Working interest production for the nine months ended 30
September 2023
9M 2023 9M 2022
Liquids Gas Total Liquids Gas Total
Seplat bopd MMscfd boepd bopd MMscfd boepd
%
========== ======= ======== ======= ======= ======== ======= =======
OMLs 4,
38 & 41 45% 15,206 116.5 35,289 14,710 112.8 34,157
OML 40 45% 10,169 - 10,169 6,316 - 6,316
OML 53 40% 1,154 - 1,154 1,806 - 1,806
OPL 283 40% 1,540 - 1,540 1,058 - 1,058
Total 28,069 116.5 48,152 23,890 112.8 43,337
Liquid production volumes as measured at the LACT (Lease
Automatic Custody Transfer) unit for OMLs 4, 38 and 41; OML 40 and
OPL 283 flow station.
Gas conversion factor of 5.8 boe per scf.
Volumes stated are subject to reconciliation and may differ from
sales volumes within the period.
During the first nine months of 2023, the total working interest
production was within guidance and increased by 11.1% to 48,152
boepd (9M 2022: 43,337 boepd); the oil & gas mix was 58% and
42% respectively. Within this, oil working interest production
increased by 17.5% while gas working interest production rose 3.3%.
Total production deferment in the period was 31% (9M 2022: 37%), a
significant improvement on prior year performance.
2023 working interest production by quarter
Q3 2023 Q2 2023 Q1 2023
Liquids Gas Total Liquids Gas Total Liquids Gas Total
================= ========= ======== ======= ======= ======== ======= ======= ======== ======= =======
Seplat % bopd MMscfd boepd bopd MMscfd boepd bopd MMscfd boepd
================= ========= ======== ======= ======= ======== ======= ======= ======== ======= =======
OMLs 4, 38 & 41 45% 12,595 110.8 31,693 15,466 114.8 35,254 17,613 124.1 39,003
OML 40 45% 8,922 - 8,922 12,025 12,025 9,568 - 9,568
OML 53 40% 1,133 - 1,133 1,049 1,049 1,280 - 1,280
OPL 283 40% 1,159 - 1,159 1,584 1,584 1,885 - 1,885
Total 23,809 110.8 42,907 30,124 114.8 49,912 30,346 124.1 51,735
Liquid production volumes as measured at the LACT (Lease
Automatic Custody Transfer) unit for OMLs 4, 38 and 41; OML 40 and
OPL 283 flow station.
Gas conversion factor of 5.8 boe per scf.
Volumes stated are subject to reconciliation and may differ from
sales volumes within the period.
Upstream business performance
Total liquids production increased by 17.9% to 7.7 MMbbls in 9M
2023, compared to 6.5 MMbbls in 9M 2022. The higher production
during the period was supported by the improved availability of the
Forcados Oil Terminal that supports export for the majority of our
assets; a contrast to its prolonged unavailability in 3Q 2022.
In OMLs 4, 38, & 41, working interest liquids production
improved 3.4% to 15,206 bopd (9M 2022: 14,710 bopd). In the third
quarter production was supported by the availability of the AEP
pipeline which provided a reliable alternate evacuation route,
helping to offset the impact of 44 days downtime for the TFP
evacuation route. The main cause of the outage was the time taken
to repair the Single Point Mooring (SPM) system at the Forcados Oil
Terminal. Production was also impacted by delays to the delivery of
new well stock planned on the asset in 2023.
Our operations at OML 40 contributed the most significant growth
in the period. Working interest production from the asset grew by
61.0% to 10,169 bopd in 9M 2023 (9M 2022: 6,316 bopd). The strong
growth in OML 40 volumes was because of higher production uptime
(driven by improved pipeline availability) and the successful
delivery of the 2023 wells campaign.
On the Eastern operations in OML 53, daily working interest
production fell 36.1% to 1,154 bopd in 9M 2023, with the evacuation
of these volumes principally to the nearby Waltersmith Refinery
from our Ohaji operations. The issues with the Antan-Ebocha
delivery line were resolved in August allowing us to resume
production from our Jisike operations. This is expected to improve
output from OML53 in the coming months. However, the Trans Niger
Pipeline (TNP) remains unavailable, constraining production volumes
from Ohaji.
We are actively working towards solutions for the third-party
evacuation issues on our Eastern assets and are in final
discussions with the Edo Refinery regarding an alternative
evacuation option. The plan entails supplying c.600 bopd of JV
crude from Ohaji to the Edo Refinery.
We remain committed to resolving current evacuation issues,
developing alternative solutions and optimising production across
our operations.
Majestic Rig Incident
On 15th August 2023, Seplat Energy announced the occurrence of a
serious incident on the "Majestic" swamp drilling rig owned by
Depthwize Nigeria Limited, a drilling services provider. Seplat
contracted the rig as the operator of the SEPLAT/NNPCL joint
venture, and Depthwize was in the process of moving the rig to its
planned drilling location at Ovhor in OML 41 when it capsized.
The tragic incident, which resulted in the loss of life of two
of the rig crew while the remaining two are still missing, occurred
prior to Seplat accepting the rig onto its well location. Our
thoughts and prayers are with the families of the crew members who
tragically lost their lives in the incident. Seplat commends the
effort of all parties in the rescue mission including several
Seplat staff who provided strong Emergency Response support to
Depthwize during the incident.
Depthwize has conducted its own investigation into the incident
and will not be able to fully determine the cause of the capsize
until the rig is salvaged from the site, which is currently
underway. While Depthwize was fully responsible for the move,
Seplat in line with its policies and procedures has also performed
its own independent investigation and has shared the findings with
the Nigerian regulator (Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory
Commission) and Depthwize. Seplat will continue to cooperate fully
with the regulator in its review of the incident and we continue to
offer Depthwize our full support where we can. Our main concern is
for the impacted families and to ensure they are properly supported
and compensated for their loss.
Drilling
During the 9-month period, our drilling program has successfully
delivered eight (8) wells including Opuama-17, Sibiri-2,
Gbetiokun-4 W/O, Gbetiokun-10, and Gbetiokun-11 in our OML 40
operations; Orogho-8 in our OML 4, 38, 41 operations; ASSN-05 and
OHS_9 in our OML 53 operations. The five (5) wells delivered in our
OML 40 operations have been streamed at a gross rate of c.11,600
bopd (100% JV), providing a significant uplift to production from
OML 40.
As communicated in Q2 2023, our drilling program is moderately
behind plan. To address the delays, we initiated a drilling
recovery plan early in Q3 2023, and are now operating three land
rigs in the Western Asset which will partially compensate for the 6
swamp wells - Ovhor DKFW-01 well, Abiala-1 W/O, Abiala-B, Ovhor
DNFT-02, Ovhor DMFU-01, and Ovhor DFFW-01 which were moved out of
the sequence due to a combination of the Majestic Rig incident and
delays to the drilling program. We expect most of the delayed swamp
wells to be drilled in 2024.
For the remainder of 2023, we plan to deliver six (6) additional
wells including Okporhurhu-08 W/O (currently drilling),
Okporhurhu-HUHA-04, Sapele-7T Workover (currently drilling), Sapele
BGHC-02, Sapele-CEGX, and ASSN-06 (nearing completion). This would
bring the total number of delivered wells for 2023 to 14 wells.
Midstream Gas business performance
During the period, the average working interest gas volumes grew
3.3% to reach 116.5 MMscfd, showing improvement compared to 112.8
MMscfd in 9M 2022. This increase is attributed to enhanced well
performance and the availability of condensate evacuation routes.
Total gas sales for the period were 31.8 Bcf (9M 2022: 30.8 Bcf),
contributing 42% of the group's volumes and 12% of total
revenue.
In the quarter we have successfully entered into a new Gas Sales
Agreement (GSA) with a bulk gas supplier for a volume of 50 MMscfd.
All the necessary conditions precedent were met by the new
customer, and we will commence gas supply under this agreement in
Q4 2023. The execution of additional GSAs is part of our strategy
to optimise the capacity of the Oben gas plant. We are also
actively working on securing third-party gas to feed both the Oben
and Sapele gas plants.
Midstream business separation update
The plan for separating the midstream business from upstream
operations has progressed according to schedule. We have completed
the internal transfer of midstream assets to Seplat Midstream
Company (SMC) and the license to operate the Oben Gas Plant has
been issued to SMC by the regulator NMDPRA (Nigerian Midstream
Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority). Additionally, we have
issued notices to our joint venture partners and relevant
regulators to inform them of these developments. We will continue
to keep the market updated on the progress of this separation
process.
ANOH Gas Processing Plant
We outlined four key steps to first gas in our 6M23 results:
AGPC plant mechanical completion, Upstream wells drill and hook up,
OB3 pipeline river crossing and the completion of the spur line
connecting the OB3 pipeline to the ANOH gas plant.
During the quarter, there were further delays in construction of
the critical infrastructure required to complete the ANOH gas
project. The plant has also progressed slower than expected.
Overall, progress was hampered by a deterioration in the security
situation, poor weather, and contractor performance.
We are pleased to report that overall completion continued to
progress on the AGPC plant, reaching 95%, and we continue to expect
mechanical completion by year end 2023. AGPC's safety record
continued to remain strong during the quarter, achieving 10 million
manhours without LTI on the project, which given the significant
challenges encountered, is a highly commendable effort.
In terms of upstream development, the drilling of the third well
(ASSN-05) was completed in 1H23. Drilling of the fourth well
(ASSN-06) by the upstream unit operator, SPDC is substantially
progressed and is expected to be completed shortly. Additionally,
work on surface facilities required to deliver wet gas to the AGPC
plant is ongoing and expected to be completed by the upstream unit
operator, SPDC, in the current quarter.
Our government partner, NGIC, is responsible for delivering the
pipelines required to transport the gas from ANOH to the demand
centres, including the 23km spur line and the Obiafu-Obrikom-Oben
(OB3) pipeline.
With respect to OB3 pipeline, further progress has been made in
completion of grouting operations at the river Niger crossing, with
two barges currently in operation. After a challenging initial
period, documented in prior quarters, approaching half the 1,850m
river crossing is now prepared to a point of being ready to tunnel.
Tunnelling operations, paused as grouting works were prioritised,
are expected to resume soon as necessary personnel and equipment
arrive back on site. That said, progress has been slower than
expected progress, and our government partner has revised its
expected completion time for installation of the pipe to the end of
2023.
Regarding the Spur Line project, all line pipes required for all
23.3km spur line sections are in country and have been delivered to
the project site. The first phase of the spur line (5.5km length)
in Rivers State has been completed. Of the remaining 9.9km in
Rivers State, a section of c.4.5km is near completion and currently
being tied in. The remaining 7.9km in Imo State is clearing ground
in preparation for pipe laying. In the quarter, the project was
delayed by unfavourable weather conditions and deteriorating
security concerns, which led to three weeks of movement
restrictions in September. Overall completion of the Spur Line
project today is at 70%, with our government partner maintaining an
expected completion date of end 2023.
Based on the progress to date, we believe that Q1 2024 is more
likely for a revised completion date. As we have done previously,
we believe it is also prudent to allow for an additional margin of
error in our planning assumptions of approximately six months. As
such we are revising our first gas target to Q3 2024.
Despite slower than expected progress to project completion,
ANOH remains an important strategic project for Seplat, and we are
focused on the path to first gas. Once completed, ANOH will provide
two income streams for Seplat: wet gas sales from OML 53 to the
plant and dividends from the joint venture ANOH Gas Processing
Company, which will operate the plant.
Given further delay to first gas we provide an update on our
base assumptions for the ANOH gas project. Our Eastern assets have
recently faced higher than usual deferments due to the
unavailability of the Trans-Niger Pipeline (TNP), and we factor
this into our conservative planning assumptions for ANOH. Our base
assumptions include a more conservative view on deferments than on
our Western assets, a wet gas purchase price modestly below current
realisations on the rest of our gas portfolio and our business
planning oil price assumption of $60/bbl. We anticipate c.6 month
ramp up to plateau production after first gas, during which period
AGPC will establish plant stability and offtake performance.
Incorporating these elements, we estimate that AGPC should provide
a dividend stream net to Seplat of c.$30m per annum. The dividends
are expected to begin approximately 12-18months after first
gas.
We note that a $10/bbl change in the oil price would change the
expected dividend by c.$5m, while a 1% change in production
deferment changes the expected dividend by c.$1m, both figures are
net to Seplat.
New Energy Business
Strategic growth investment opportunities are being pursued for
the New Energy Business, with a particular focus on entry into
off-grid power generation. Such projects will increase the
reliability, lower the cost, and reduce the carbon intensity of
existing Nigerian electricity consumption. We have identified power
project opportunities for investment, and we continue to work
through technical and commercial due diligence to evaluate these
investment opportunities.
HSE Performance
The Company has achieved a total of 6.4 million hours (2.2
million hours in Q3 2023) without any Lost Time Injury (LTI) on its
operated assets, which reflects the Company's strong focus on
safety and the dedication of its workforce to maintaining a secure
work environment. In addition, TRIR was 0.63 with no major injuries
were reported during this period. There was one Tier 2 Process
Safety Loss of Primary Containment (LOPC) incident from a section
of the Amukpe-Rapele Trunkline that resulted in 95bbls of oil
spilled.
Training sessions on Incident Management (Tripod Beta
methodology) were held to enhance incident investigation and
prevention with 44 participants at the Lagos and Sapele locations.
Also, Process Safety Management Training for Operations,
Engineering, Maintenance, Wells, and HSE Team members to prevent
process-related incidents was conducted with 63 participants.
The company is on a path to achieve ISO 45001 and 14001
certifications, demonstrating its commitment to top-tier safety and
environmental performance. These certifications are globally
acknowledged benchmarks for occupational health and safety
management systems and environmental management systems,
respectively.
Reducing carbon intensity is crucial for the Company, and the
flares-out roadmap, which includes measures to minimise greenhouse
gas emissions and improve overall energy efficiency, is being
implemented to eliminate routine flares by Q4 2024. The carbon
intensity recorded for the period was 26.0 kg/boe, higher than the
22.8 kg/boe recorded in 9M 2022 because of higher production. The
Sapele Flow Station contributed significantly to the higher carbon
intensity recorded YTD. However, the commissioning of the Sapele AG
compressors puts us in a position to materially reduce absolute
emissions (by approximately 40%) once gas offtake begins. The other
project for completion in 2023 is at the Jisike Flow Station, and
the gas compression project is expected to capture another 9% of
emissions in 2023.
Proposed acquisition of MPNU
On 24 May 2023, we announced that we have extended with Mobil
Development Nigeria Inc. and Mobil Exploration Nigeria Inc.
(ExxonMobil) the Share Sale and Purchase Agreement (SSPA) for the
acquisition of ExxonMobil's share capital of Mobil Producing
Nigeria Unlimited (MPNU) to preserve the transaction pending the
resolution of certain legal proceedings and receipt of applicable
regulatory approvals.
The Board remains confident that the transaction will be
approved, and all associated legal issues will be resolved. We
continue to work with all parties to achieve a successful outcome,
including our financiers who remain supportive, and have been
encouraged by the recent drive of the Tinubu administration to
promote investment in country. We will provide further updates as
appropriate.
Intra-group transfer of OML 53 from Seplat Energy to Seplat East
Onshore Company Limited
During the quarter, Seplat completed the internal transfer of
the business activities and assets of OML 53 from the Holding
Company to its wholly owned subsidiary Seplat East Onshore Limited
having obtained regulatory and partner approvals. This Intra-Group
transfer will not result in any change to the current business
strategy for the assets nor will it affect how the Seplat Group
commercially operates. Therefore, the operatorship of the asset
remains with Seplat under the Joint Operating Agreement ("JOA"), as
the transfer to an affiliate of Seplat under the terms of the JOA
is permitted.
The new structure of the Seplat Group is consistent with
Seplat's efforts to simplify its structure and is designed towards
segregating the businesses of the Group more efficiently thereby
reducing risk, cost, and complexity. This is also expected to
result in a simplified management and reporting framework for the
Seplat Group.
The outcome of the transfer will not, in any way, result in a
loss of tax revenue to the Government or an extinguishment of
liabilities. Similarly, it will not diminish shareholder value in
(and returns from) Seplat as a listed company .
Shareholder actions
The Company had previously communicated a series of lawsuits
brought by minority shareholders holding less than 0.005% of the
Company's issued shares (details were included in the H1 2023
release ). The company continues to be successful in its defense
against these lawsuits and remains confident that the courts will
appropriately address the outstanding frivolous litigations.
Seplat, as a responsible corporate citizen, will continue to engage
all its stakeholders in accordance with applicable law and
established corporate governance best practices.
Outlook
Group production performance has improved in 2023, thanks to
well performance on OML40 and reduced losses on our Western Asset.
We have no significant planned turnaround activity in 4Q23, as such
we can narrow our production guidance to a range of 46,000-50,000
boepd, within our original guidance range. Our guidance does not
include any contribution from MPNU or ANOH.
Our capital expenditure guidance for 2023 is narrowed to a range
of $160-180 million. Reduced well count modestly lowers total
expenditure on drilling, while we also anticipate making some
project milestone payments in the final quarter of the year. The
focus on recovery of our drilling program continues. We are
actively looking to contract a new swamp rig, that will increase
rigs on our Western Asset to four.
We expect to generate positive free cash flow in the final
quarter of 2023, further supporting our ability to fund the MPNU
transaction and underpinning managements desire to continue to
reward shareholders. The company maintains a policy of a core
dividend of 3c per share payable quarterly (12c per share
annually), and an additional special dividend. The special dividend
will be considered by the board as part of the full year 2023
results .
Financial review
Revenue
Crude oil price, which trended downwards for most of 1H 2023, on
concerns around the impact of global monetary policy normalisation
on economic activities, recovered sharply in Q3 2023. This was
supported by supply cuts from Saudi Arabia and Russia, and
declining global crude oil inventories. As a result, average Brent
crude price in the period rose 11% to average $85.92/bbl in Q3
2023, from $77.73/bbl in Q2 2023. That said, 9M 2023 average Brent
crude price remained 20% lower than average price over the same
period in 2022.
For Seplat, our average realised oil price was $90.3/bbl in Q3
2023. This was 19% and 10% higher than realised oil prices in Q2
2023 and Q1 2023, respectively, helped by the favourable timing of
crude oil liftings, but down 21% from $114.68/bbl realised in Q3
2022.
YTD, average realised oil price for Seplat is $82.76, 24% below
the $108.25/bbl average realised in 9M 2022.
Crude oil revenue rose 33.9% to $716.4 million in 9M 2023, from
$534.9 million in 9M 2022. The YoY growth in Crude oil revenue can
be attributed primarily to the overlifts recorded during the
period. Total overlifts for 9M 2023 stood at $127.8 million
(equivalent to 1.28 MMbbls) and is adjusted for in other income.
Excluding overlifts, crude oil revenue was $588.5 million, c.1%
lower than adjusted revenue in 9M-2022's $595.2 million (adjusted
for underlift in the period). Higher production in the period fully
mitigated the effect of lower realised oil prices. Total crude
lifted during the period rose 76.7% to 8.7 MMbbls (9M 2022: 4.9
MMbbls). The average pipeline loss factor for the group was
3.3%.
Gas revenue experienced a 12.3% increase, reaching $93.9 million
in 9M 2023 (compared to $83.7 million in 9M 2022). This growth is
attributed to a combination of a modest increase in realised gas
prices and a rise in sales volume. The average realised gas price
rose by 2.5% to $2.87/Mscf, while gas production saw a 3.2%
increase to 31.8 Bscf during the same period (compared to 30.8 Bscf
in 9M 2022). The average realised gas price improvement reflects
the impact of higher gas price negotiated with off-takers in the
period.
Overall, Oil and Gas sales for 9M 2023 rose 31.0% to $810.4
million, from $618.6 million in 9M 2022. Adjusting for overlifts,
total Oil & Gas sales were $682.5 million.
Gross profit
During the period, gross profit rose 46.9% to $416.3m, from the
$283.4m recorded in 9M 2022. Non-production costs primarily
included $141.2 million in royalties and $116.9 million in
depreciation, depletion, and amortisation (DD&A), contrasting
with $132.2 million in royalties and $88.4 million in DD&A in
the previous year. The difference is largely due to higher
production in 2023.
Direct operating costs, which encompass expenses related to
crude-handling charges (CHC), barging/trucking, operations and
maintenance, amounted to $94.9 million in 9M 2023, marking a 41.0%
increase from the $67.3 million incurred in 9M 2022. This rise in
direct operating costs is attributed to the increase in produced
volumes in 2023 by about 1.2mmbbls and higher CHC from using
alternative evacuation routes secured by Seplat to minimise
reliance from a single evacuation route resulting in lower outages
and third-party infrastructure downtime.
Considering the cost per barrel equivalent basis, production
operating expenses (opex) were $9.7/boe in 9M 2023, compared to
$9.3/boe in 9M 2022.
Operating profit
During the period under review, operating profit decreased by
34.4% to $154.8 million, from $235.9 million achieved in 9M 2022.
This decline in operating profit was attributed to a combination of
lower oil prices, foreign exchange (FX) losses due to Naira
devaluation, and higher General and Administrative (G&A)
expenses.
G&A expenses amounted to $104.5 million, 31.6% higher than
the G&A costs of $79.4 million incurred in 9M 2022. This
increase in G&A costs was mainly due to professional fees
associated with the litigation costs in response to the
unprecedented and intense period of minority shareholder actions
through the Courts; it also includes costs associated with the MPNU
transaction. Excluding these exceptional items, G&A costs would
have closed relatively flat compared to the previous year.
Nevertheless, Seplat remains committed to minimising G&A
expenses and has established cost champions to identify cost
pressure points, and we are implementing measures to control
expenditure in those areas.
During the period, there was a significant adjustment in the
exchange rate between the Nigerian Naira and US Dollar, following
CBN guidelines to unify multiple exchange rate windows to the
Nigerian Autonomous Foreign Exchange Market (NAFEM). The closing
rate for September 2023 was NGN832.08/USD1, representing a notable
difference from the rates in May 2023 of NGN461.28/USD1, before the
new guidelines were implemented. The revaluation of the Group's
financial assets arising from the exchange rate difference resulted
a net (non-cash) loss (please refer to the H12023 results for more
details). As a result, the company implemented several measures to
control the impact of the Naira devaluation on financial
performance including exhausting avenues to cover costs in Naira
and ensuring utilisation of Naira excess cash balances. As a
result, YTD FX losses are $27.8 million, following FX gains offset
of $6.8 million recorded in Q3 2023.
After adjusting for non-cash items such as impairment, fair
value, and exchange losses, the adjusted EBITDA for the period was
$306.4 million (9M 2022: $337.9 million), resulting in a margin of
37.8% (9M 2022: 54.6%).
Taxation
The income tax expense of $27.0 million includes a current tax
charge of $54.3 million and a deferred tax credit of $27.3 million.
The deferred tax credit recorded during the period was due to
change in applicable tax rate on our Elcrest assets which impacted
deferred tax asset balance brought forward from prior years. The
effective tax rate for the period was 25% (9M 2022: 60%).
Effective tax rate analysis Income tax expense Tax rate
Profit before tax ($'million) Current Deferred Total ETR Current
(Effective Tax rate
Tax Rate)
106.5 54.3 (27.3) 27.0 25% 51%
Net result
Profit before tax declined by 42.5%, amounting to $106.5
million, compared to $185.2 million in 9M 2022. However, the lower
taxation in the current period, resulted in a closing profit of
$79.5 million, as opposed to $73.9 million in 9M 2022.
The profit attributable to equity holders of the parent company,
representing shareholders, was $40.5 million in 9M 2023, which
resulted in basic earnings per share of $0.07 for the period (9M
2022: $0.13/share).
Cash flows from operating activities
During the period, the Company generated $365.1 million in cash
from its operations, a small decrease from the $368.1 million
generated in 9M 2022.
Net cash flow from operating activities amounted to $296.3
million in 9M 2023, compared to $317.4 million in 9M 2022. This
figure includes higher tax payments of $60.5 million and a hedging
premium of $3.9 million during the current period, while in the
previous year, tax payments were $43.1 million, and the hedging
premium paid was $7.6 million.
The Company received $174 million in the first nine months of
2023 towards settling cash calls from the major JV Partner NEPL.
Another $32 million was received after the period; this progress
led to the reduction of the receivables balance, which now stands
at $72 million. Receivables outstanding from our JV partner on OML
53 as of September 2023 are $32 million. The amounts increased over
the period because the partner has been impacted by prolonged crude
evacuation challenges, where Seplat has lifted through the
Waltersmith Refinery since early 2022. As such, the overlift volume
stood at over 1 MMbbls as of September 2023. In view of this, we
are in discussions with NUIMS management and expected to come to a
resolution within this quarter .
Cash flows from investing activities
In the first nine months of 2023, the total net cash outflow
from investing activities was $110.4 million, which decreased from
the $232.9 million (a figure which includes $140 million in
acquisition costs, of which the deposit for investment in MPNU
transaction was $128.3 million) recorded in 9M 2022.
The capital expenditure on oil & gas assets during the
period was $122.7 million, including $85.8 million invested in
drilling activities and $36.9 million invested in engineering
projects. Total capex (including other fixed assets) was $125.4
million.
The Company received $8.7 million from All Grace Energy
regarding the divestment from the Ubima field, the sum of $27.3
million has been received to date leaving an outstanding of $27.7
million. An extension of the payment period by 18 months has been
agreed, with the final payment now due in Oct-2024.
Cash flows from financing activities
Net cash outflows from financing activities were $168.6 million,
which increased from the $110.9 million recorded in 9M 2022.
These outflows included $58.1 million for interest on loans and
borrowings, reflecting the cost of servicing the Company's debt
obligations. Additionally, a commitment fee and associated
transaction cost of $8.5 million was incurred on our credit
facilities. The loan repayments of $22.0 million, in two $11m
tranches, during the period represent the first principal
repayments of the Eland Senior RBL Facility.
During the period, shareholders were paid dividends amounting to
$76.1 million (9M 2022: $44.1 million paid).
Liquidity
The balance sheet continues to remain healthy with a solid
liquidity position.
Net debt reconciliation $ million* Coupon Maturity
30 September 2023
Senior notes* 641.0 7.75% April 2026
Westport RBL* 88.0 SOFR rate+8% March 2026
Off-take facility* 9.6 SOFR rate+10.5% April 2027
Total borrowings 738.6
Cash and cash equivalents (exclusive
of restricted cash) 391.0
Net debt 34 7.6
* Including amortised interest
Seplat Energy ended the first quarter with gross debt of $738.6
million (with maturities in 2026 and 2027) and cash at bank of
$391.0 million, leaving net debt at $347.6 million. The restricted
cash balance of $21.2 million includes $8.1 million and $11.4
million set aside in the stamping reserve and debt service reserve
accounts for the revolving credit facility.
As the Company continuously reviews its funding and maturity
profile, it continues to monitor the market in ensuring that it is
well positioned for any refinancing and or buy back opportunities
for the current debt facilities - including potentially the $650
million 7.75% 144A/Reg S bond maturing in 2026.
Dividend
The board has approved a Q3 2023 dividend of US3.0 cents per
share (subject to appropriate WHT) to be paid to shareholders whose
names appear in the Register of Members as at the close of business
on 10 November 2023. This takes dividend payments to US9.0 cents
per share for the 2023 financial year to date, in line with the
Company's dividend policy.
Hedging
Seplat's hedging policy aims to guarantee appropriate levels of
cash flow assurance in times of oil price weakness and volatility.
Total volumes hedged in 2023 amount to 6.0 MMbbls. For Q4 2023,
Seplat hedged 1.5 MMbbls of dated Brent deferred put options at
$55/bbl (at a cost of $0.73/bbl); and for Q1 2024, Seplat hedged
1.5 MMbbls dated Brent deferred put options at $65/bbl (at a cost
of $1.08/bbl).
Oil put options Q4 2023 Q1 2024
Volume hedged (MMbbls) 1.5 1.5
Price hedged ($/bbl.) 55 65
Additional barrels are expected to be hedged for the second
quarter of 2024, in line with the approach to target hedging two
quarters in advance. The Board and management team closely monitor
prevailing oil market dynamics and will consider further measures
to provide appropriate levels of cash flow assurance in times of
oil price weakness and volatility.
Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) Implementation Status
Since submitting the conditional application to convert all our
assets to the PIA regime in February 2023, our multi-disciplinary
team has been diligently preparing the Company for full compliance
with the various aspects of the PIA and anchor regulations as they
impact Seplat. Meanwhile, the regulator is finalising the
guidelines for the conversion and has shared concession contracts
with converting companies to enable a thorough review and
understanding of the contractual terms and obligations that will be
applicable under the new PIA regime. The long-stop date for the
fulfilment of the conditions precedent, which was extended to
September 30, 2023, has expired; we expect that a new date will be
communicated.
Share dealing policy
We confirm that, to the best of our knowledge, there has been
compliance with the Company's share dealing policy during the
period.
Free float
The Company's free float on 30 September 2023 was 29%.
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END
QRTNKCBQPBDDCKB
(END) Dow Jones Newswires
October 30, 2023 03:00 ET (07:00 GMT)
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