Cameco reports fourth quarter and 2013 financial results
SASKATOON, SASKATCHEWAN--(Marketwired - Feb 7, 2014) -
ALL AMOUNTS ARE STATED IN CDN $ (UNLESS NOTED)
- strong performance in a weak market
- delivered record annual consolidated revenue
- strong uranium segment results - record annual revenue and
average realized price
- record quarterly and annual uranium production
- began jet boring in ore at Cigar Lake
- recorded a $70 million write-down on Talvivaara asset
- announced the sale of our interest in Bruce Power Limited
Partnership
Cameco (TSX:CCO) (NYSE:CCJ) today reported its consolidated
financial and operating results for the fourth quarter and year
ended December 31, 2013 in accordance with International Financial
Reporting Standards (IFRS). "2013 was a challenging year, but also
a year in which Cameco was, again, able to demonstrate resilience
and strength," said president and CEO, Tim Gitzel. "We were able to
achieve record production and a number of record financial results,
despite the continued uncertainty in the uranium market.
That uncertainty has lasted for longer than had been expected,
and this year, we've moved away from our production target of 36
million pounds by 2018. Although we still have an extensive
portfolio of assets from which we can increase our production, the
market incentive must be there. We're confident this change will
ensure we have the flexibility to remain competitive, create value
for shareholders, and benefit when certainty and growth return to
the market over the long term."
HIGHLIGHTS |
THREE MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31 |
|
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31 |
|
($ MILLIONS EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) |
2013 |
2012 |
CHANGE |
2013 |
2012 |
CHANGE |
Revenue |
977 |
846 |
15% |
2,439 |
1,891 |
29% |
Gross profit |
185 |
255 |
(27)% |
607 |
540 |
12% |
Net earnings attributable to equity holders |
64 |
41 |
56% |
318 |
253 |
26% |
$ per common share (basic and diluted) |
0.16 |
0.10 |
60% |
0.81 |
0.64 |
27% |
Adjusted net earnings (see non-IFRS) |
150 |
233 |
(36)% |
445 |
434 |
3% |
$ per common share (adjusted and diluted) |
0.38 |
0.59 |
(36)% |
1.12 |
1.10 |
2% |
Cash provided by operations (after working capital
changes) |
154 |
286 |
(46)% |
530 |
579 |
(8)% |
Average realized prices |
Uranium |
|
$US/lb |
47.76 |
49.97 |
(4)% |
48.35 |
47.72 |
1% |
|
|
|
$Cdn/lb |
49.80 |
49.37 |
1% |
49.81 |
47.72 |
4% |
|
Fuel services |
|
$Cdn/kgU |
17.24 |
17.16 |
- |
18.12 |
17.75 |
2% |
|
NUKEM |
|
$Cdn/lb |
41.84 |
- |
- |
42.26 |
- |
- |
|
Electricity |
|
$Cdn/MWh |
54 |
54 |
- |
54 |
55 |
(2)% |
The 2013 annual financial statements have been audited; however,
the 2012 and 2013 fourth quarter financial information presented is
unaudited. You can find a copy of our 2013 audited financial
statements on our website at cameco.com. Our 2013 annual
management's discussion and analysis (MD&A) will be posted on
our website before markets open on Monday, February 10, 2014.
Starting in the first quarter of 2013, IFRS 11 - Joint
Arrangements requires that we account for our interest in
Bruce Power Limited Partnership (BPLP) using equity accounting. Our
results for 2012 have been revised for comparative purposes.
FULL YEAR
Our net earnings attributed to equity holders (net earnings)
were $318 million ($0.81 per share diluted) compared to $253
million ($0.64 per share diluted) in 2012, mainly due to:
- the impact of a one-time $168 million write-down of our
investment in the Kintyre project in 2012
- higher earnings from our fuel services business as a result of
an increase in sales volumes and realized prices
- lower exploration expenditures due to a decreased activity at
our Kintyre project in Australia
- higher tax recoveries due to a decline in pre-tax earnings in
Canada
partially offset by:
- lower earnings from our electricity business due to lower
generation, a lower average realized price and higher costs
- a $70 million write-down of our Talvivaara asset due to their
weakened financial position and pending corporate
restructuring
- higher losses on foreign exchange derivatives due to the
weakening of the Canadian dollar
On an adjusted basis, our earnings were $445 million ($1.12 per
share diluted) (see non-IFRS measure) compared to $434 million
($1.10 per share diluted) in 2012, mainly due to:
- addition of gross profit from NUKEM
- lower exploration costs due to a decrease in activity at our
Kintyre project in Australia
- lower income taxes
partially offset by:
- lower earnings from our electricity business due to lower
generation, a lower average realized price and higher costs
See 2013 Financial results by segment for more
detailed discussion.
FOURTH QUARTER
In the fourth quarter of 2013, our net earnings were $64 million
($0.16 per share diluted), an increase of $23 million compared to
$41 million ($0.10 per share diluted) in 2012, mainly due to:
- the impact of a one-time $168 million write-down of our
investment in the Kintyre project in the fourth quarter of
2012
- lower exploration and administrative expenditures
- higher income tax recovery
offset by:
- lower uranium gross profits due to lower sales volumes and
higher average unit cost of sales
- a $70 million write-down of our Talvivaara asset, due to their
weakened financial position and pending corporate
restructuring
- higher losses on foreign exchange derivatives due to the
weakening of the Canadian dollar
On an adjusted basis, our earnings this quarter were $150
million ($0.38 per share diluted) compared to $233 million ($0.59
per share diluted) (see non-IFRS measure) in the fourth quarter of
2012, mainly due to:
- lower uranium gross profits due to lower sales volumes and
higher average unit cost of sales
offset by:
- lower exploration and administrative expenditures
- higher income tax recovery
See 2013 Financial results by segment for more
detailed discussion.
IMPAIRMENT CHARGE ON NON-PRODUCING ASSETS
During the fourth quarter of 2013, we recognized a $70 million
impairment charge relating to our agreement with Talvivaara Mining
Company Plc. to purchase uranium produced at the Sotkamo
nickel-zinc mine in Finland. The impairment charge represents the
full amount of our investment, which was used to cover construction
costs, with the amount to be repaid through deliveries of uranium
concentrate. The amount of the charge was determined as the excess
of the carrying value over the fair value, less costs to sell. Due
to Talvivaara's weak financial position and application to the
Finnish government to undergo a corporate restructuring, as an
unsecured creditor, we determined the fair value less costs to sell
to be nil, and as such, recognized an impairment charge for the
full amount of the asset.
The nuclear energy industry today
The long-term outlook for the uranium industry continues to be
very positive, despite the uncertainty that exists today. Against
the backdrop of the world's growing need for safe, clean, reliable
and large-scale sources of energy, nuclear energy continues to play
a significant role in the global energy mix. The challenge for the
industry is the pathway and timing of the transition from today's
stagnant, over-supplied short-term market to the promise of nuclear
growth and positive uranium market conditions in the long term.
Market conditions deteriorated in 2013 and we believe the
uncertainty could continue, depending on how events unfold. In
particular, the slower than expected pace of Japanese reactor
restarts, unexpected reactor shutdowns in the United States and
temporary shutdowns in South Korea led to demand erosion.
Compounding the issue, the supply side performed well: primary
supply remained stable while secondary supply increased modestly,
primarily due to enricher underfeeding. The impact of these
conditions was the extension of the post-Fukushima inventory
overhang and further downward price pressure.
This market dynamic also led to a reduction in market
contracting activity. Utilities are well covered under long-term
contracts for the time being and are not under pressure to buy.
Similarly, existing suppliers appear reluctant to enter into
meaningful contract volumes at current prices. The result was very
low levels of long-term contracting in 2013-around 10% of current
annual reactor consumption estimates, highlighting a cordial
stalemate between buyers and sellers. How this stalemate is
resolved between buyers and sellers will be a key factor
influencing the pace of market recovery.
Looking beyond the current market challenges, there were several
positive indications for the long term in 2013. In Japan, more
clarity was gained around the process for reactor restarts: the
Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NRA) implemented measures that
improved regulatory stability; restart applications were submitted
by seven utilities covering 16 reactors; and, there was observable
confidence from Japanese utilities who are spending billions of
dollars on plant upgrades in anticipation of a positive restart
environment.
In other regions, China's remarkable nuclear growth program
remains on track. Three more reactors were brought online, and
construction began on four more in 2013. The United Kingdom (UK)
also garnered positive attention as a result of a government-backed
revenue arrangement with Électricité de France, designed to support
new build there. Overall, the anticipated increase in nuclear
plants from 433 (representing 394 gigawatts) today to 526
(representing 514 gigawatts) by 2023 illustrates a promising growth
picture.
And it is clear that this growth will require new sources of
uranium supply at a time when secondary supplies are diminishing
and current market conditions have resulted in deferrals and
cancellations of several uranium projects. Current prices are
insufficient to incent new production. The end of the Russian
Highly Enriched Uranium (HEU) commercial agreement in 2013,
removing 24 million pounds of annual supply from the market,
highlights the need for increasing reliance on primary uranium
supply in the future. The timing of this required supply may well
be muted in the near term due to the extension of the over-supply
situation, but it remains clear new supply will be required this
decade. The development and execution of new uranium supply
projects, as well as continued performance of existing supply, will
also play a significant role in determining the timing and pace of
market recovery.
Our strategy
Our strategy remains focused on taking advantage of the
long-term growth we see coming in our industry, while maintaining
the ability to respond to market conditions as they evolve. As a
result of the longer-than-anticipated market uncertainty, we are
adjusting our plans in line with this focus.
Market challenges have persisted since early 2011 and we expect
they will continue for the near to medium term, depending on:
- the pace of Japanese reactor restarts
- how long it takes for excess supply to clear the market
- when long-term contracting resumes in meaningful
quantities
- the development and execution of new uranium supply
projects
- continued performance of existing supply
In this environment, a fixed production target is no longer
appropriate; although we still have an extensive portfolio of
assets from which we can increase production capacity, we have
decided the prudent action is to eliminate our previous 2018 supply
target of 36 million pounds. This will allow us increased
flexibility in order to deliver the best value through this period
of uncertainty, while at the same time retaining the ability to
benefit when more certainty returns to the market environment, as
we expect it will. Today, our strategy is to profitably produce at
a pace aligned with market signals to increase long-term
shareholder value.
We plan to:
- carry out all of our business with a focus on safety, people
and the environment
- ensure continued reliable, low-cost production from our
flagship operation, McArthur River/Key Lake and seek to expand that
production
- ensure continued reliable, low-cost production at Inkai
- successfully bring on and ramp up production at Cigar Lake
- manage the rest of our production facilities and potential
sources of supply in a manner that retains the flexibility to
respond to market signals and take advantage of value adding
opportunities within our own portfolio and the uranium market
- manage and allocate capital in a way that balances growing the
long-term value of the business and returns to shareholders, while
maintaining a strong balance sheet and our investment grade
rating
Outlook for 2014
Our strategy is to profitably produce at a pace aligned with
market signals, while maintaining the ability to respond to
conditions as they evolve.
Our outlook for 2014 reflects the expenditures necessary to help
us achieve our strategy. We do not provide an outlook for the items
in the table that are marked with a dash.
See Financial results by segment for details.
2014 FINANCIAL OUTLOOK
Subject to closing, we sold our interest in BPLP effective
December 31, 2013, and we will no longer provide an outlook for the
electricity segment.
|
|
CONSOLIDATED |
|
URANIUM |
|
FUEL SERVICES |
|
NUKEM |
Production |
|
- |
|
23.8 to 24.3 million lbs |
|
13 to 14 million kgU |
|
- |
Sales volume |
|
- |
|
31 to 33 million lbs |
|
Decrease 5% to 10% |
|
9 to 11 million lbs U3O8 |
Revenue compared to 2013 |
|
Increase 0% to 5% |
|
Increase 0% to 5%1 |
|
Decrease 5% to 10% |
|
Increase 0% to 5% |
Average unit cost of sales(including depreciation and amortization
(D&A)) |
|
- |
|
Increase 0% to 5%2 |
|
Increase 0% to 5% |
|
Increase 0% to 5% |
Direct administration costs compared to 20133 |
|
Increase 0% to 5% |
|
- |
|
- |
|
Increase 0% to 5% |
Exploration costs compared to 2013 |
|
- |
|
Decrease 35% to 40% |
|
- |
|
- |
Tax rate |
|
Recovery of 30% to 35% |
|
- |
|
- |
|
Expense of 30% to 35% |
Capital expenditures |
|
$495 million |
|
- |
|
- |
|
- |
1 |
Based
on a uranium spot price of $35.50(US) per pound (the Ux spot price
as of February 3, 2014), a long-term price indicator of $50.00 (US)
per pound (the Ux long-term indicator on January 27, 2014) and an
exchange rate of $1.00 (US) for $1.03 (Cdn). |
2 |
This
increase is based on the unit cost of sale for produced material
and committed long-term purchases. If we make discretionary
purchases in 2014 then we expect the overall unit cost of sales to
increase further. |
3 |
Direct administration costs do not include stock-based compensation
expenses. |
CONSOLIDATED OUTLOOK
We expect consolidated revenue to be up to 5% higher in 2014 due
to an increase in realized prices in our uranium business.
We expect administration costs (not including stock-based
compensation) to be relatively stable (0% to 5% higher) compared to
2013, as restructuring efforts offset inflation.
We expect exploration expenses to be about 35% to 40% lower than
they were in 2013 due to:
- decreased activities in Australia
- a general reorganization of our global exploration portfolio
that has allowed us to focus on our core projects in
Saskatchewan
We have contractual arrangements to sell uranium produced at our
Canadian mining operations to a trading and marketing company
located in a foreign jurisdiction. These arrangements reflect the
uranium markets at the time they were signed, with the risk and
benefit of subsequent movements in uranium prices accruing to the
foreign trading and marketing company.
On an adjusted net earnings basis, we expect a tax recovery of
30% to 35% in 2014 from our uranium, fuel services and NUKEM
segments, as taxable income in Canada is expected to decline.
Subject to our success in the litigation with CRA, we expect our
tax recovery to continue in accordance with the 2014 outlook until
the contractual arrangements noted above expire in 2016. As these
arrangements expire and are replaced by new contracts that reflect
the uranium market at the time of signing, our tax expense is
expected to rise over time.
URANIUM OUTLOOK
We expect to produce 23.8 million to 24.3 million pounds in 2014
and have commitments under long-term contracts to purchase
approximately 2 million pounds.
Based on the contracts we have in place, we expect to deliver
between 31 million and 33 million pounds of U3O8 in 2014. We expect
the unit cost of sales to be up to 5% higher than in 2013,
primarily due to higher costs for produced material. In 2014, we
will complete a number of capital projects at our various
production facilities, including Cigar Lake. Upon completion, we
will begin to depreciate the assets, which will increase the
non-cash portion of our production costs. In addition, until Cigar
Lake ramps up to full production, the cash cost of material
produced from the mine will initially be higher. If we make
additional discretionary purchases in 2014, then we expect the
overall unit cost of sales to increase further.
Based on current spot prices, revenue should be up to 5% higher
than it was in 2013 as a result of an expected increase in the
realized price.
In our uranium and fuel services segments, our customers choose
when in the year to receive deliveries, so our quarterly delivery
patterns and, therefore, our sales volumes and revenue, can vary
significantly. We expect that uranium deliveries in the first
quarter of 2014 will be slightly higher than the first quarter of
2013, with about 20% of the year's deliveries scheduled for the
first three months. We expect uranium deliveries for the balance of
2014 to be more heavily weighted (~60%) to the second half of the
year. However, not all delivery notices have been received to date,
which could alter the delivery pattern. Typically, we receive
notices six months in advance of the requested delivery date.
PRICE SENSITIVITY ANALYSIS: URANIUM
The table below is not a forecast of prices we expect to
receive. The prices we actually realize will be different from the
prices shown in the table. The table is designed to indicate how
the portfolio of long-term contracts we had in place on December
31, 2013 would respond to different spot prices. In other words, we
would realize these prices only if the contract portfolio remained
the same as it was on December 31, 2013, and none of the
assumptions we list below change.
We intend to update this table each quarter in our MD&A to
reflect deliveries made and changes to our contract portfolio each
quarter. As a result, we expect the table to change from quarter to
quarter.
Expected realized uranium price sensitivity under various spot
price assumptions
(rounded to the nearest $1.00) |
SPOT PRICES ($US/lb U3O8) |
$20 |
$40 |
$60 |
$80 |
$100 |
$120 |
$140 |
2014 |
45 |
48 |
55 |
62 |
69 |
76 |
81 |
2015 |
41 |
46 |
55 |
65 |
75 |
84 |
93 |
2016 |
42 |
47 |
57 |
68 |
78 |
88 |
96 |
2017 |
42 |
47 |
57 |
67 |
77 |
86 |
93 |
2018 |
43 |
49 |
58 |
68 |
78 |
86 |
93 |
The table illustrates the mix of long-term contracts in our
December 31, 2013 portfolio, and is consistent with our marketing
strategy. It has been updated to reflect deliveries made and
contracts entered into up to December 31, 2013.
Our portfolio includes a mix of fixed-price and market-related
contracts, which we target at a 40:60 ratio. Those that are fixed
at lower prices or have low ceiling prices will yield prices that
are lower than current market prices.
Our portfolio is affected by more than just the spot price. We
made the following assumptions (which are not forecasts) to create
the table:
Sales
- sales volumes on average of 30 million pounds per year, with
commitment levels through 2016 higher than in 2017 and 2018
Deliveries
- deliveries include best estimates of requirements contracts and
contracts with volume flex provisions
- we defer a portion of deliveries under existing contracts for
2014
Inflation
- is 1.5% in Canada and 2% per year in the US
Prices
- the average long-term price indicator is the same as the
average spot price for the entire year (a simplified approach for
this purpose only). Since 1996, the long-term price indicator has
averaged 17% higher than the spot price. This differential has
varied significantly. Assuming the long-term price is at a premium
to spot, the prices in the table will be higher.
ROYALTIES
On January 3, 2014, the government of Saskatchewan released
regulations to implement the changes to the Saskatchewan uranium
royalty system originally announced in the 2013 provincial
budget.
The government has changed tiered royalties from a revenue-based
system to a modified profit-based system, retroactive to January 1,
2013. Under the new system, a 10% royalty will be charged on profit
up to and including $22/kg U3O8 ($9.98/lb), and a 15% royalty on
profit in excess of $22/kg U3O8. Profit will be determined as
revenue less certain operating, exploration, reclamation and
capital costs (applied to Saskatchewan uranium production). Under
the new system, both exploration and capital costs will be
deductible at the discretion of the producer.
During the period from 2013 to 2015, transitional rules will
apply whereby only 50% of capital costs will be deductible. The
remaining 50% will be accumulated and deductible commencing in
2016. In addition, the capital allowance related to Cigar Lake
under the previous system, will be grandfathered and deductible in
2016.
Also, as previously reported, the net basic royalty (basic
royalty of 5% less the Saskatchewan resource credit) increased from
4.0% to 4.25% effective April 1, 2013. Other than the increase of
the rate, there were no changes to the determination of the basic
royalty, which continues to be levied by the province on the gross
revenue from the sales of Saskatchewan uranium production.
LONG-TERM URANIUM PRODUCTION OUTLOOK
Although we have an extensive portfolio of assets from which we
can increase our production capacity, we have eliminated our 2018
supply target of 36 million pounds in order to allow us to respond
to market signals, and as a result, it is no longer appropriate to
provide a long-term production forecast.
FUEL SERVICES OUTLOOK
In 2014, we plan to produce 13 million to 14 million kgU, and we
expect sales volumes to be 5% to 10% lower than in 2013. Overall
revenue is expected to decrease by 5% to 10% as a result of the
lower sales volumes. We expect the unit cost of product sold
(including D&A) to increase by 0% to 5%; therefore, overall
gross profit will decrease as a result.
NUKEM OUTLOOK
Much of the purchase price for NUKEM was related to nuclear fuel
inventories and the portfolio of sales and purchase contracts
acquired. The amounts attributed to inventory and contracts were
based on market values as at the acquisition date. They will be
charged to earnings in the period(s) in which related transactions
occur. The amount categorized as goodwill reflects the value
assigned to the expected future earnings capabilities of the
organization. This is the earnings potential that we anticipate
will be realized through new business arrangements. Goodwill is not
amortized and is tested for impairment at least annually.
For 2014, NUKEM expects to deliver between 9 million and 11
million pounds of uranium, resulting in an increase in total
revenues of up to 5% compared to 2013. NUKEM expects to incur
administration costs similar to 2013. The effective income tax rate
is expected to remain in the range of 30% to 35%.
CAPITAL SPENDING
We classify capital spending as sustaining, capacity replacement
or growth. As a mining company, sustaining capital is the money we
spend to keep our facilities running in their present state, which
would follow a gradually decreasing production curve, while
capacity replacement capital is spent to maintain current
production levels at those operations. Growth capital is money we
invest to generate incremental production, and for business
development.
CAMECO'S SHARE ($ MILLIONS) |
2013 PLAN |
2013 ACTUAL |
2014 PLAN |
Sustaining capital |
|
|
|
|
McArthur River/Key Lake |
55 |
64 |
30 |
|
Cigar
Lake |
- |
- |
15 |
|
Rabbit Lake |
70 |
50 |
40 |
|
US
ISR |
5 |
5 |
5 |
|
Inkai |
7 |
1 |
5 |
|
Fuel
services |
10 |
8 |
10 |
|
Other |
23 |
9 |
10 |
Total sustaining capital |
170 |
137 |
115 |
Capacity replacement capital |
|
|
|
|
McArthur River/Key Lake |
75 |
73 |
60 |
|
Cigar
Lake |
- |
- |
25 |
|
Rabbit Lake |
5 |
3 |
15 |
|
US
ISR |
30 |
22 |
20 |
|
Inkai |
20 |
16 |
15 |
Total capacity replacement capital |
130 |
114 |
135 |
Growth capital |
|
|
|
|
McArthur River/Key Lake |
55 |
29 |
75 |
|
US
ISR |
30 |
33 |
10 |
|
Millennium |
5 |
5 |
5 |
|
Inkai |
21 |
9 |
5 |
|
Cigar
Lake |
260 |
284 |
145 |
|
Fuel Services |
4 |
2 |
5 |
Total growth capital |
375 |
362 |
245 |
Talvivaara |
10 |
10 |
- |
Total uranium & fuel services |
6851 |
623 |
495 |
Electricity (our 31.6% share of BPLP) |
80 |
75 |
- |
1 |
We
updated our 2013 capital cost estimate in the Q2 MD&A to $685
million. |
Capital expenditures were 9% below our 2013 plan, mainly due to
variances at Rabbit Lake, Inkai, and McArthur River/Key Lake caused
by a change in the timing of expenditures.
(CAMECO'S SHARE IN $ MILLIONS) |
2015 PLAN |
2016 PLAN |
Total uranium & fuel services |
400-450 |
500-550 |
|
Sustaining capital |
160-175 |
220-240 |
|
Capacity replacement capital |
150-170 |
165-175 |
|
Growth capital |
90-105 |
115-135 |
We expect total capital expenditures for uranium and fuel
services to decrease by about 21% in 2014.
Major sustaining, capacity replacement and growth expenditures
in 2014 include:
- McArthur River/Key Lake - At McArthur River, the largest
project is the upgrade of the electrical infrastructure at about
$56 million. Mine development is also planned at about $105
million. Other projects include expansion of freeze capacity and
other site facility and equipment purchases. At Key Lake, projects
will be undertaken to finish work on the calciner and upgrade site
electrical services
- US in situ recovery (ISR) - Continued work on the development
of the North Butte mine represents a large portion of our wellfield
construction expenditures in the US. Well installation at other
mine units is also significant.
- Rabbit Lake - At Eagle Point, the largest component is mine
development at about $24 million, along with mine equipment
upgrades and purchases. Work on various mill facility and equipment
replacements will also continue.
- Cigar Lake - Underground mine development makes up the largest
portion of capital at the Cigar Lake site, at about $30 million.
Completion of various mine facilities will continue into 2014, as
well as the purchase of mine equipment in order to ramp up to full
production. Our share of the costs to modify the McClean Lake mill
are expected to be about $100 million in 2014.
We previously estimated capital costs on our brownfield
expansions and development projects to be between $135 and $190
million per year for the next three years. We now estimate capital
costs for our brownfield expansions and development projects to be
about $245 million in 2014 due to the delayed startup of Cigar Lake
production and additional costs at the McClean Lake mill. Growth
capital is then expected to be between $90 and $135 million per
year for 2015 and 2016.
The removal of our fixed production target allows us to better
align our capital spending with market signals. As the market
begins to signal new production is needed, we plan to increase our
capital expenditures to allow us to be among the first to respond
to the growth we see coming.
This information regarding currently expected capital
expenditures for future periods is forward-looking information, and
is based upon the assumptions and subject to the material risks
discussed below. Our actual capital expenditures for future periods
may be significantly different.
ACQUISITIONS AND DIVESTITURES
On January 9, 2013 we completed the acquisition of NUKEM by
paying a total of $140 million (US) and assuming its net debt of
$111 million (US). In the third quarter of 2013, as part of our
strategy to focus on projects that provide the most certainty in
the near term, we divested our interests in Argentina and Peru and
recorded a loss of $15 million.
On January 30, 2014, we signed an agreement with BPC Generation
Infrastructure Trust to sell our 31.6% limited partnership interest
in BPLP and related entities for $450 million. The effective date
for the sale is December 31, 2013. We expect to realize an after
tax gain of approximately $129 million on this divestiture.
Under the agreements governing BPLP, the limited partners have
rights of first offer upon a sale by us. Closing of the transaction
is subject to completion or waiver of the right of first offer
process by the other limited partners and receipt of certain
regulatory approvals.
SENSITIVITY ANALYSIS
At December 31, 2013, every one-cent change in the value of the
Canadian dollar versus the US dollar would change our 2014 net
earnings by about $5 million (Cdn), with a decrease in the value of
the Canadian dollar versus the US dollar having a positive impact.
This sensitivity is based on an exchange rate of $1.00 (US) for
$1.00 (Cdn).
For 2014, a change of $5 (US) per pound in each of the Ux spot
price ($35.50 (US) per pound on February 3, 2014) and the Ux
long-term price indicator ($50.00 (US) per pound on January 27,
2014) would change revenue by $67 million and net earnings by $42
million.
NON-IFRS MEASURES - ADJUSTED NET EARNINGS
Adjusted net earnings is a measure that does not have a
standardized meaning or a consistent basis of calculation under
IFRS (non-IFRS measure). We use this measure as a more meaningful
way to compare our financial performance from period to period. We
believe that, in addition to conventional measures prepared in
accordance with IFRS, certain investors use this information to
evaluate our performance. Adjusted net earnings is our net earnings
attributable to equity holders, adjusted to better reflect the
underlying financial performance for the reporting period. The
adjusted earnings measure reflects the matching of the net benefits
of our hedging program with the inflows of foreign currencies in
the applicable reporting period, and adjusted for impairment
charges on non-producing properties, NUKEM inventory write-down,
loss on exploration properties, and income taxes on
adjustments.
Adjusted net earnings is non-standard supplemental information
and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for
financial information prepared according to accounting standards.
Other companies may calculate this measure differently, so you may
not be able to make a direct comparison to similar measures
presented by other companies.
To facilitate a better understanding of these measures, the
table below reconciles adjusted net earnings with our net earnings
for the years ended 2013, 2012 and 2011, as reported in our
financial statements.
($ MILLIONS) |
2013 |
2012 |
2011 |
Net earnings attributable to equity holders |
318 |
253 |
450 |
Adjustments |
|
|
|
|
Adjustments on derivatives1 (pre-tax) |
56 |
17 |
80 |
|
Impairment charge on non-producing property |
70 |
168 |
- |
|
NUKEM inventory write-down |
14 |
- |
- |
|
Loss on exploration properties |
15 |
- |
- |
|
Income taxes on adjustments |
(28) |
(4) |
(21) |
Adjusted net earnings |
445 |
434 |
509 |
1 |
We do
not apply hedge accounting for our portfolio of foreign currency
forward sales contracts. However, we have adjusted our gains or
losses on derivatives to reflect what our earnings would have been
had hedge accounting been in place. |
CRA DISCLOSURE
Since 2008, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has disputed the
offshore marketing company structure and related transfer pricing
methodology we used for certain intercompany uranium sale and
purchase agreements, and issued notices of reassessment for our
2003 through 2008 tax returns. We believe the ultimate resolution
of this matter will not be material to our financial position,
results of operations and cash flows in the year(s) of
resolution.
Transfer pricing is a complex area of tax law, and it is
difficult to predict the outcome of a case like ours as there are
only a handful of reported court decisions on transfer pricing in
Canada. However, tax authorities generally test two things:
- the governance (structure)
- the price
As the majority of our customers are located outside Canada, we
established an offshore marketing subsidiary. This subsidiary
entered into intercompany purchase and sales agreements as well as
uranium supply agreements with third parties. We have arm's-length
transfer price arrangements in place, which expose both parties to
the risks and the rewards accruing to them under this portfolio of
purchase and sales contracts.
With respect to the contract prices, they are generally
comparable to those established in sales contracts between
arm's-length buyers and sellers entered into at that time. We have
recorded a cumulative tax provision of $73 million, where an
argument could be made that our transfer price may have fallen
outside of an appropriate range of pricing in uranium contracts for
the period from 2003 to 2013.
We are confident that we will be successful in our case;
however, for the years 2003 through 2008, CRA issued notices of
reassessment for approximately $2.0 billion of additional income
for Canadian tax purposes, which would result in a related tax
expense of about $590 million. The Canadian Income Tax Act includes
provisions that require certain companies to pay 50% of the cash
tax plus related interest and penalties at the time of
reassessment. To date, under these provisions, after applying
elective deductions and tax loss carryovers, we have been required
to pay a net amount of $103 million to CRA ($59 million as of
December 31, 2013; $44 million in January 2014), which includes the
amounts shown in the table below and described subsequently.
YEAR ($ MILLIONS) |
|
CASH TAXES |
|
INTEREST AND INSTALMENT PENALTIES |
|
TRANSFER PRICING PENALTIES |
|
TOTAL |
Prior to 2013 |
|
- |
|
13 |
|
- |
|
13 |
2013 |
|
1 |
|
9 |
|
36 |
|
46 |
2014 |
|
16 |
|
28 |
|
- |
|
44 |
Total |
|
17 |
|
50 |
|
36 |
|
103 |
- approximately $13 million for interest and instalment penalties
paid prior to 2013. These amounts were not reported separately as
they were not material in any given year.
- approximately $27 million in January 2013, representing 50% of
the amount owed for the amounts reassessed in December 2012 - $20
million of this payment was refunded in the second quarter of 2013
when it was determined by CRA that they had reassessed amounts
outside of the allowable review period
- approximately $36 million in December 2013 that related to a
$72 million transfer pricing penalty we were assessed for the 2007
taxation year. This was the first transfer pricing penalty assessed
since CRA began to issue reassessments with respect to the transfer
pricing dispute.
- approximately $3 million paid in 2013. This amount would have
been refundable in the year, but instead was applied as a credit
against the amounts reassessed in December 2013 (for which a
further payment was made in January 2014).
- approximately $44 million in January 2014, representing 50% of
the amount owed as reassessed in December 2013 and related to the
2008 taxation year
Using the methodology we believe CRA will continue to apply, and
including the $2.0 billion already reassessed, we expect to receive
notices of reassessment for a total of approximately $5.7 billion
in income as taxable in Canada for the years 2003 through 2013,
which would result in a related tax expense of approximately $1.6
billion. As well, CRA may continue to apply transfer price
penalties to taxation years subsequent to 2007. As a result, we
estimate that cash taxes and transfer pricing penalties would be
between $1.25 billion and $1.3 billion. In addition, we estimate
there would be interest and instalment penalties applied that would
be material to Cameco. We would be responsible for remitting 50% of
the cash taxes and transfer pricing penalties (between $625 million
and $650 million) plus related interest and instalment penalties
assessed, which would be material to Cameco.
Under the Canadian federal and provincial tax legislation, the
amount required to be remitted each year will depend on the amount
of income reassessed in that year and the availability of elective
deductions and tax loss carryovers; however, we expect it will
generally follow the schedule in the table below.
DECEMBER 31, 2013 ($ MILLIONS) |
|
2003 - 2013 |
|
2014 - 2016 |
|
2017 - 2023 |
|
TOTAL |
50% of cash taxes and transfer pricing penalties payable in the
period1 |
|
37 |
|
250 - 275 |
|
325 - 350 |
|
625 - 650 |
1 |
These
amounts do not include interest and instalment penalties, which
totaled approximately $22 million to December 31, 2013. |
In light of our view of the likely outcome of the case as
described above, we expect to recover the amounts remitted to CRA,
including the $103 million already paid to date.
The case on the 2003 reassessment is expected to go to trial in
2015. If this timing is adhered to, we expect to have a Tax Court
decision in 2015 or 2016.
CAUTION ABOUT FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION RELATING TO OUR CRA
TAX DISPUTE
This discussion of our expectations relating to our tax dispute
with CRA and future tax reassessments by CRA, including the amounts
of future additional taxable income, additional tax expense, cash
taxes payable, transfer pricing penalties and interest and possible
instalment penalties thereon and related remittances, and timing of
a Tax Court decision, is forward-looking information that is based
upon the assumptions and subject to the material risks discussed
under the heading Caution about forward-looking information
beginning below and also on the more specific assumptions and risks
listed below. Actual outcomes may vary significantly.
Assumptions
- CRA will reassess us for the years 2009 through 2013 using a
similar methodology as for the years 2003 through 2008, with the
time lag for the reassessments for each year being similar to what
has occurred to date
- we will be able to apply elective deductions and tax loss
carryovers to the extent anticipated
- CRA will seek to impose transfer pricing penalties (10% of the
income adjustment) in addition to interest charges and instalment
penalties
- we will be substantially successful in our dispute with CRA and
the cumulative tax provision of $73 million to date will be
adequate to satisfy any tax liability resulting from the outcome of
the dispute to date
Material risks that could cause actual results to differ
materially
- CRA reassesses us for years 2009 through 2013 using a different
methodology than for years 2003 through 2008, or we are unable to
utilize elective deductions and loss carryovers to the same extent
as anticipated, resulting in the required cash payments to CRA
pending the outcome of the dispute being higher than expected
- the time lag for the reassessments for each year is different
than for those to date
- we are unsuccessful and the outcome of our dispute with CRA
results in significantly higher cash taxes, interest charges and
penalties than the amount of our cumulative tax provision, which
could have a material adverse effect on our liquidity, financial
position, results of operations and cash flows
- cash tax payable increases due to unanticipated adjustments by
CRA not related to transfer pricing
2013 financial results by segment
Uranium
|
THREE MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31 |
|
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31 |
|
HIGHLIGHTS |
2013 |
2012 |
CHANGE |
2013 |
2012 |
CHANGE |
Production volume (million lbs) |
7.5 |
6.5 |
15% |
23.6 |
21.9 |
8% |
Sales volume (million lbs) |
12.7 |
14.5 |
(12)% |
32.8 |
32.9 |
- |
Average spot price ($US/lb) |
35.03 |
42.46 |
(17)% |
38.17 |
48.40 |
(21)% |
Average long-term price ($US/lb) |
50.00 |
58.50 |
(15)% |
54.13 |
60.13 |
(10)% |
Average realized price |
|
|
|
|
|
|
($US/lb) |
47.76 |
49.97 |
(4)% |
48.35 |
47.72 |
1% |
($Cdn/lb) |
49.80 |
49.37 |
1% |
49.81 |
47.72 |
4% |
Average unit cost of sales ($Cdn/lb) (including D&A) |
37.94 |
32.85 |
15% |
33.01 |
32.09 |
3% |
Revenue ($ millions) |
631 |
716 |
(12)% |
1,633 |
1,571 |
4% |
Gross profit ($ millions) |
150 |
240 |
(38)% |
550 |
514 |
7% |
Gross profit (%) |
24 |
34 |
(29)% |
34 |
33 |
3% |
FOURTH QUARTER
Production volumes this quarter were 15% higher compared to the
fourth quarter of 2012, mainly due to higher production at McArthur
River/Key Lake, Rabbit Lake, Inkai, and Smith-Ranch Highland with
the rampup of the North Butte satellite operation.
Uranium revenues were down 12% due to a 12% decrease in sales
volumes, which represents normal quarterly variance in our delivery
schedule.
The average realized price increased slightly compared to 2012
despite a 17% drop in the spot price, due to the mix of contract
deliveries, higher US dollar prices under fixed price contracts,
and the effect of foreign exchange. In the fourth quarter of 2013,
our realized foreign exchange rate was $1.04 compared to $0.99 in
the prior year.
Total cost of sales (including D&A) increased by 1% ($481
million compared to $476 million in 2012). This was mainly the
result of a 15% increase in the average unit cost of sales, offset
by a 12% decrease in sales volumes.
The unit cost of sales increased due to an increase in the
non-cash costs of produced material in the fourth quarter compared
to the same period in 2012, and an increase in the unit cost of
material purchased.
In 2013, we purchased about 10 million pounds of material under
the Russian HEU commercial agreement, more than the annual 7
million historically purchased. Some of this additional material
was made available under an option in the agreement, which we
exercised in 2006. Under the agreement, pricing of this option
material was at a discount to spot prices at the time of delivery.
We received the option material in the fourth quarter as our final
purchase under the Russian HEU commercial agreement.
In addition, in the fourth quarter, we had back-to-back purchase
and sale arrangements that, while profitable, required we purchase
material at a price higher than the current spot price.
The net effect was a $90 million decrease in gross profit for
the quarter.
FULL YEAR
Production volumes in 2013 were 8% higher than 2012 due to
higher production from nearly every site compared to 2012. See
Uranium - production overview for more information.
Uranium revenues this year were up 4% compared to 2012, due to
an increase of 4% in the Canadian dollar average realized price.
Although the spot and term prices were lower than 2012, our average
realized prices this year were higher mainly due to the mix of
contracts, higher US dollar prices under fixed price contracts and
the effect of foreign exchange. The realized foreign exchange rate
was $1.03 compared to $1.00 in 2012. The spot price for uranium
averaged $38.17 (US) per pound in 2013, a decline of 21% compared
to the 2012 average price of $48.40 (US) per pound. Total cost of
sales (including D&A) remained stable compared to 2012 at $1.1
billion as an increase in the average unit cost of sales was offset
by slightly lower sales volumes.
The net effect was a $36 million increase in gross profit for
the year.
The following table shows the costs of produced and purchased
uranium incurred in the reporting periods (non-IFRS measures see
below). These costs do not include selling costs such as royalties,
transportation and commissions, nor do they reflect the impact of
opening inventories on our reported cost of sales.
|
THREE MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31 |
|
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31 |
|
($CDN/LB) |
2013 |
2012 |
CHANGE |
2013 |
2012 |
CHANGE |
Produced |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash
cost |
15.61 |
17.01 |
(8)% |
18.37 |
19.95 |
(8)% |
|
Non-cash cost |
9.42 |
8.41 |
12% |
9.46 |
8.13 |
16% |
|
Total production cost |
25.03 |
25.42 |
(2)% |
27.83 |
28.08 |
(1)% |
|
Quantity produced (million lbs) |
7.5 |
6.5 |
15% |
23.6 |
21.9 |
8% |
Purchased |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash cost |
37.26 |
32.94 |
13% |
27.95 |
28.50 |
(2)% |
|
Quantity purchased (million lbs) |
4.4 |
2.8 |
57% |
13.2 |
11.2 |
18% |
Totals |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Produced and purchased costs |
29.55 |
27.69 |
7% |
27.87 |
28.22 |
(1)% |
|
Quantities produced and purchased (million lbs) |
11.9 |
9.3 |
28% |
36.8 |
33.1 |
11% |
Cash cost per pound, non-cash cost per pound and total cost per
pound for produced and purchased uranium presented in the above
table are non-IFRS measures. These measures do not have a
standardized meaning or a consistent basis of calculation under
IFRS. We use these measures in our assessment of the performance of
our uranium business. We believe that, in addition to conventional
measures prepared in accordance with IFRS, certain investors use
this information to evaluate our performance and ability to
generate cash flow.
These measures are non-standard supplemental information and
should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for
measures of performance prepared according to accounting standards.
These measures are not necessarily indicative of operating profit
or cash flow from operations as determined under IFRS. Other
companies may calculate these measures differently, so you may not
be able to make a direct comparison to similar measures presented
by other companies.
To facilitate a better understanding of these measures, the
following table presents a reconciliation of these measures to our
unit cost of sales for the fourth quarters of 2013 and 2012, and
years ended 2013 and 2012 as reported in our financial
statements.
Cash and total cost per pound reconciliation
|
THREE MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31 |
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31 |
($ MILLIONS) |
2013 |
2012 |
2013 |
2012 |
Cost of product sold |
359.8 |
394.4 |
869.1 |
883.7 |
Add / (subtract) |
|
|
|
|
|
Royalties |
(52.5) |
(51.7) |
(90.8) |
(116.0) |
|
Standby charges |
(11.1) |
(7.7) |
(37.4) |
(28.6) |
|
Other
selling costs |
(4.8) |
(3.3) |
(1.4) |
(6.2) |
|
Change in inventories |
(10.3) |
(128.9) |
63.1 |
23.1 |
Cash operating costs (a) |
281.1 |
202.8 |
802.6 |
756.0 |
Add / (subtract) |
|
|
|
|
|
Depreciation and amortization |
121.2 |
82.1 |
212.9 |
172.9 |
|
Change in inventories |
(50.7) |
(27.4) |
10.1 |
5.2 |
Total operating costs (b) |
351.6 |
257.5 |
1,025.6 |
934.1 |
Uranium produced and purchased (millions lbs) (c) |
11.9 |
9.3 |
36.8 |
33.1 |
Cash costs per pound (a ÷ c) |
23.62 |
21.81 |
21.81 |
22.84 |
Total costs per pound (b ÷ c) |
29.55 |
27.69 |
27.87 |
28.22 |
|
|
|
|
|
Fuel services results |
(includes results for UF6, UO2 and fuel fabrication) |
|
THREE MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31 |
|
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31 |
|
HIGHLIGHTS |
2013 |
2012 |
CHANGE |
2013 |
2012 |
CHANGE |
Production volume (million kgU) |
2.7 |
3.3 |
(18)% |
14.9 |
14.2 |
5% |
Sales volume (million kgU) |
6.5 |
6.0 |
8% |
17.6 |
16.4 |
7% |
Realized price ($Cdn/kgU) |
17.24 |
17.16 |
- |
18.12 |
17.75 |
2% |
Average unit cost of sales ($Cdn/kgU) (including D&A) |
14.42 |
14.06 |
3% |
15.16 |
15.24 |
(1)% |
Revenue ($ millions) |
112 |
103 |
9% |
319 |
291 |
10% |
Gross profit ($ millions) |
18 |
19 |
(5)% |
52 |
41 |
27% |
Gross profit (%) |
16 |
18 |
(11)% |
16 |
14 |
14% |
FOURTH QUARTER
Total revenue increased by 9% due to an 8% increase in sales
volumes.
The total cost of sales (including D&A) increased by 9% ($93
million compared to $85 million in the fourth quarter of 2012)
mainly due to an 8% increase in sales volumes.
The net effect was a $1 million decrease in gross profit.
FULL YEAR
Total revenue increased by 10% due to a 7% increase in sales
volumes and a 2% increase in the realized price.
The total cost of products and services sold (including D&A)
increased by 7% ($267 million compared to $250 million in 2012) due
to the increase in sales volumes.
The net effect was an $11 million increase in gross profit.
NUKEM results
NUKEM GmbH (NUKEM)
On January 9, 2013, we acquired NUKEM for cash consideration of
EUR107 million ($140 million (US)). We also assumed NUKEM's net
debt, which amounted to about EUR79 million ($104 million
(US)).
In accordance with the purchase agreement, we paid Advent
additional consideration of EUR6,075,000 ($7,808,000), representing
a share of NUKEM's 2012 earnings. There will be no additional
payments to Advent related to the transaction.
For accounting purposes, the purchase price is allocated to the
assets and liabilities acquired based on their fair values as of
the acquisition date.
FOURTH QUARTER
During the fourth quarter of 2013, NUKEM delivered 3.3 million
pounds of uranium. On a consolidated basis, NUKEM contributed $188
million in revenues and gross profit of $19 million. Adjusted net
earnings were $11 million (see non-IFRS measure). During the
quarter, NUKEM's operating activities provided $9 million in cash,
which was lower than expected due to the timing of a product
purchase that was originally planned for early 2014 occurring in
December of 2013.
FULL YEAR
During 2013, NUKEM delivered 8.9 million pounds of uranium. On a
consolidated basis, NUKEM contributed $465 million in revenues and
$20 million in gross profit. Adjusted net earnings were $14 million
(see non-IFRS measure). NUKEM's contribution to our earnings is
significantly impacted by our purchase price accounting. Excluding
the impact of the purchase accounting, NUKEM's adjusted net
earnings (see non-IFRS measure) were $47 million for the year.
NUKEM's operating activities provided $6 million in cash during
2013 compared to our expectation of $50 million to $70 million.
During the fourth quarter, we concluded a product purchase that had
previously been planned for early 2014, reducing our reported cash
flows for 2013 by approximately $55 million.
Uranium to be purchased under contractual fixed price
arrangements and inventory on hand at the acquisition date were
valued using the spot price at that time. The decline in the spot
price in recent months has caused the carrying values of certain
quantities to exceed their estimated realizable value, and we
recorded an initial charge of $17 million ($11 million net of tax)
and a subsequent recovery of $3 million ($1 million net of
tax).
As noted above, much of the NUKEM purchase price was
attributable to inventories and the portfolio of contracts. With
respect to nuclear fuel inventories, amounts assigned were based on
market values as of the date of acquisition. As these quantities
are delivered to NUKEM's customers, we will adjust the cost of
product sold to reflect the values at the acquisition date,
regardless of NUKEM's historic costs.
As of the date of the purchase agreement, had NUKEM's sales and
purchase contracts been settled, it would have realized significant
financial benefit. As a result, we paid a premium to acquire the
portfolio. Accordingly, a portion of the purchase price has been
attributed to the various contracts. In our accounting for NUKEM,
we will amortize the amounts assigned to the portfolio in the
periods in which NUKEM transacts under the relevant contracts. The
net effect is a reduction in reported profit margins relative to
NUKEM's results. We expect the majority of the amount allocated to
the contract portfolio will be amortized within two years.
Electricity results
FOURTH QUARTER
Total electricity revenue decreased 3% this quarter due to a
lower output. Realized prices reflect spot sales, revenue
recognized under BPLP's agreement with the OPA, and financial
contract revenue. BPLP recognized revenue of $212 million this
quarter under its agreement with the OPA, compared to $198 million
in the fourth quarter of 2012. Gains on BPLP's contract activity in
the fourth quarter of 2013 were $17 million, compared to $22
million in the fourth quarter of 2012.
The capacity factor was 96% this quarter, down from 100% in the
fourth quarter of 2012. There were seven unplanned outage days in
the quarter, compared to no outage days in the fourth quarter of
2012.
Operating costs this quarter of $234 million were similar to the
$236 million in 2012.
The result was $47 million in earnings before taxes (our share)
in the fourth quarter of 2013 compared to $46 million in earnings
before taxes in the fourth quarter of 2012.
BPLP distributed $125 million to the partners in the fourth
quarter. Our share was $40 million. BPLP capital calls to the
partners in the fourth quarter were $15 million. Our share was $5
million. The partners have agreed that BPLP will distribute excess
cash monthly, and will make separate cash calls for major capital
projects.
FULL YEAR
BPLP's decreased results in 2013 when compared to 2012 are
partially the result of revenues being 8% lower than in 2012 due to
a 7% decrease in generation and a 2% decrease in realized
electricity prices. BPLP's average realized price reflects spot
sales, revenue recognized under BPLP's agreement with the Ontario
Power Authority (OPA) and revenue from financial contracts.
BPLP has an agreement with the OPA under which output from each
B reactor is supported by a floor price (currently $52.34/MWh) that
is adjusted annually for inflation. The floor price mechanism and
any associated payments to BPLP for the output from each individual
B reactor will expire on a date specified in the agreement. The
expiry dates are June 30, 2019 for unit B5, April 30, 2020 for unit
B6, August 31, 2020 for unit B7 and December 31, 2020 for unit B8.
Revenue is recognized monthly, based on the positive difference
between the floor price and the spot price. BPLP does not have to
repay the revenue from the agreement with the OPA to the extent
that the floor price for the particular year exceeds the average
spot price for that year.
The agreement also provides for payment if the Independent
Electricity System Operator (IESO) reduces BPLP's generation
because Ontario's baseload generation supply is higher than
required. The amount of the reduction is considered 'deemed
generation', for which BPLP is paid either the spot price or the
floor price-whichever is higher. The compensation for deemed
generation is a reflection of the Bruce B units' ability to provide
flexible output to the Ontario market, and the relatively high
fixed cost nature of the business. Deemed generation was 0.6 TWh in
2013 and 0.4 TWh in 2012.
During 2013, BPLP recognized revenue of $698 million under the
agreement with the OPA, compared to $773 million in 2012.
BPLP also has financial contracts in place that reflect market
conditions at the time they were signed. BPLP receives or pays the
difference between the contract price and the spot price. During
2013, gains on BPLP's contracting activity were $59 million,
compared to $108 million in 2012.
BPLP's capacity factor was 87% in 2013, down from 94% in 2012
due to a higher volume of outage days during the year. In 2013,
there were 140 planned and 20 unplanned outage days, compared to 46
planned and 25 unplanned outage days in 2012.
In addition, BPLP's decreased results in 2013 when compared to
2012 were also partially the result of higher operating costs.
BPLP's operating costs were $1.0 billion this year compared to $945
million in 2012 due to higher maintenance costs incurred primarily
as a result of more planned outage days than in 2012.
The net effect was a decrease in our share of earnings before
taxes of 31%
BPLP distributed $330 million to the partners in 2013. Our share
was $104 million. BPLP capital calls to the partners in 2013 were
$42 million. Our share was $13 million. The partners have agreed
that BPLP will distribute excess cash monthly, and will make
separate cash calls for major capital projects.
Subject to closing, we have sold our entire interest in BPLP and
related entities effective December 31, 2013.
Operations and development projects |
Uranium - production overview |
|
THREE MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31 |
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31 |
|
|
CAMECO'S SHARE (MILLION LBS) |
2013 |
2012 |
2013 |
2012 |
2013 PLAN |
2014 PLAN |
McArthur River/Key Lake |
4.0 |
3.5 |
14.1 |
13.6 |
13.61 |
13.1 |
Rabbit Lake |
2.1 |
1.7 |
4.1 |
3.8 |
4.2 |
4.1 |
Smith Ranch-Highland |
0.5 |
0.3 |
1.7 |
1.1 |
1.61 |
2.0 |
Crow Butte |
0.2 |
0.2 |
0.7 |
0.8 |
0.71 |
0.6 |
Inkai |
0.7 |
0.8 |
3.0 |
2.6 |
2.9 |
3.0 |
Cigar Lake |
- |
- |
- |
- |
-1 |
1.0 - 1.5 |
Total |
7.5 |
6.5 |
23.6 |
21.9 |
23.2 |
23.8 - 24.3 |
1 |
We
updated our initial 2013 plan for McArthur River/Key Lake (to 13.6
million pounds from 13.2 million pounds), US ISR (to 2.3 million
pounds from 2.6 million pounds) and Cigar Lake (to nil from 0.3
million pounds) in our Q3 MD&A. |
MCARTHUR RIVER/KEY LAKE
Total production from McArthur River/Key Lake was 20.1 million
pounds, which is the highest annual output from a uranium facility
anywhere in the world. Our share of production in 2013 was 14.1
million pounds U3O8, 4% higher than our forecast for the year, and
4% higher than annual production in 2012.
At McArthur River and Key Lake we realized benefits under the
production flexibility provision in our operating licences. Ongoing
efforts to improve the efficiency and reliability of the Key Lake
mill resulted in record mill performance.
On October 29, 2013, the CNSC granted a renewal of our McArthur
River and Key Lake operating licences. The licence term is from
November 1, 2013 to October 31, 2023. As long as average annual
production does not exceed 18.7 million pounds per year, production
flexibility provisions in the licence conditions handbooks
allow:
- the Key Lake mill to produce up to 20.4 million pounds (100%
basis) per year
- the McArthur River mine to produce up to 21 million pounds
(100% basis) per year
Our average annual production at McArthur River/Key Lake over
the past five years is 19.7 million pounds. Consequently, we have
limited flex capacity remaining under our licence provisions.
McArthur River production expansion
A limiting factor for production at the McArthur River mine is
the licence limit of 18.7 million pounds (100% basis) per year, and
in order to maintain the flexibility to produce more, we plan to
request a production limit increase to 21 million pounds (100%
basis) in 2014. This would match the currently approved maximum
production level. We expect a decision on this increase in
2014.
In addition, we will continue the work to further increase our
annual production rate to 22 million pounds (100% basis) by 2018,
subject to regulatory approval, as contemplated in the revision to
our mine plan in 2012.
We were notified by the CNSC that the environmental assessment
for the planned increase in production to 22 million pounds would
be transitioned to the CNSC licensing and compliance processes,
rather than the federal environmental assessment process.
In order to implement the planned production increases, we must
continue to successfully transition into new mine areas through
mine development and investment in support infrastructure. In
addition, we plan to:
- obtain all the necessary regulatory approvals, including at Key
Lake, to ensure the mill can process all of the ore mined annually
at McArthur River
- expand the freeze plant and electrical distribution
systems
- increase ventilation by sinking a fourth shaft at the northern
end of the mine
- improve our dewatering system and expand our water treatment
capacity
We completed installation of the freezewall and brine lines in
the upper mining area of zone 4 north. We began freezing the ground
in the third quarter of 2013, with plans to start mining the zone
in late 2014.
In addition to the underground work, we continued to upgrade our
electrical infrastructure on surface to address the future need for
increased ventilation and freeze capacity associated with mining
new zones and increasing mine production.
Key Lake extension project and mill revitalization
The Key Lake mill began operating in 1983 and is currently
licensed to produce 18.7 million pounds (100% basis) per year. Mill
production at Key Lake is expected to closely follow McArthur River
production, subject to receipt of regulatory approval. As part of
our Key Lake extension environmental assessment (EA), we are
seeking approval to increase Key Lake's nominal annual production
rate to 25 million pounds and to increase our tailings capacity; in
2014, we expect the federal and provincial EA to conclude and
expect a decision to be made on these increases.
The mill revitalization plan includes upgrading circuits with
new technology to simplify operations and improve environmental
performance. Major components of a new calciner circuit were
installed in 2013 and commissioning is expected to be completed in
2014. As part of the revitalization plan, we also replaced the
existing electrical substation in order to meet future electrical
demands.
This year we:
- submitted the final environmental impact statement for review
by the regulators, and plan to pursue the required regulatory
approvals in 2014
- completed flattening of the Deilmann tailings management
facility pitwalls
In 2014, we expect to:
- complete installation and commissioning of the new
calciner
- upgrade the electrical services necessary to add standby
electrical generating capacity for the new electrically heated
calciner
In 2014, we expect to complete the regulatory process required
to increase production to 25 million pounds per year at Key Lake.
We will also seek approval to deposit tailings in the Deilmann
tailings management facility to a higher level, providing enough
tailings capacity to potentially mill all the known McArthur River
mineral reserves and resources, should they be converted to
reserves, with additional capacity to toll mill ore from other
regional deposits.
INKAI
Production this year was slightly higher than our forecast for
the year and 15% higher than production in 2012. Inkai added new
wellfields to the production mix, which increased the head grade
and resulted in higher 2013 production.
In December 2013, Inkai received government approval of an
amendment to the resource use contract to increase production from
blocks 1 and 2 to 5.2 million pounds (100% basis). Our share of
Inkai's annual production is 3.0 million pounds with the processing
plant at full capacity.
In 2012, we entered into a binding memorandum of agreement (2012
MOA) with our joint venture partner, Kazatomprom, setting out a
framework to:
- increase Inkai's annual production from blocks 1 and 2 to 10.4
million pounds (our share 5.2 million pounds) and sustain it at
that level
- extend the term of Inkai's resource use contract through
2045
Kazatomprom is pursuing a strategic objective to develop uranium
processing capacity in Kazakhstan to complement its leading uranium
mining operations. The 2012 MOA builds on the non-binding
memorandum of understanding signed in 2007, which sought to align
the annual production increase with the development of uranium
conversion capacity. Kazatomprom's primary focus is now on uranium
refining, which is an intermediate step in the uranium conversion
process.
We expect to pursue further expansion of production at Inkai at
a pace measured to market opportunities. We are continuing to work
on an assessment of the production increase, and in December 2013,
we also completed the first draft of a prefeasibility study (PFS)
for the potential construction of a uranium refinery in Kazakhstan.
Cameco and Kazatomprom will determine if a feasibility study is
justified based on the outcome of the refinery PFS. Advancement to
the feasibility stage will require government approvals for the
transfer of our proprietary uranium refining technology from Canada
to Kazakhstan. An NCA between Canada and Kazakhstan was signed in
2013, providing the international framework necessary for applying
to the two governments for the required licences and permits.
In 2013 at block 3, Inkai:
- completed exploration drilling
- continued construction of the test leach facility and test
wellfields
- started work on an appraisal of mineral potential according to
Kazakhstan standards
In 2014 at block 3, Inkai expects to:
- complete construction of the test leach facility and test
wellfields
- start operation of the test wellfields and begin uranium
production with the test leach facility
- complete a preliminary appraisal and continue to work on a
final appraisal of mineral potential according to Kazakhstan
standards
CIGAR LAKE
During the year, we:
- completed construction and began commissioning of all
infrastructure required to begin ore production
- successfully tested the jet boring system in waste and began
commissioning in ore
- continued freezing the ground from surface to ensure frozen ore
is available for future production years
The CNSC granted a uranium mining licence authorizing
construction and operation of the Cigar Lake project. The licence
term is from July 1, 2013 to June 30, 2021.
As of December 31, 2013, we had:
- invested about $1.1 billion for our share of the construction
costs to develop Cigar Lake
- expensed about $86 million in remediation expenses
- expensed about $100 million in standby costs
- expensed about $102 million to begin commissioning
In August 2013, we announced that our share of the total capital
cost for Cigar Lake was expected to increase between 15% and 25% as
a result of scope changes, increased costs at the mine and mill,
and the inclusion of some capital costs that will be incurred
subsequent to the mining of the first ore that were not included in
our previous estimate. Our total share of the capital cost for this
project is now estimated to be about $1.3 billion (previously $1.1
billion) since we began development in 2005. In order to bring
Cigar Lake into production in 2014, we estimate our share of
capital expenditures will be about $130 million, including $100
million on modifications to the McClean Lake mill. Additional
expenditures of about $35 million will be required at McClean Lake
mill in 2015 in order to continue ramping up to full production.
Our share of standby charges until production is achieved this year
are estimated to be about $15 million.
In 2014, we expect:
- to bring the mine into production in the first quarter of
2014
- processing of the ore to begin at AREVA's McClean Lake mill by
the end of the second quarter of 2014
We expect Cigar Lake to produce between 2 million and 3 million
packaged pounds from the mill (100% basis) in 2014. Based upon our
commissioning and rampup experience, we will adjust our plans as
necessary to allow us to reach our full production rate of 18
million pounds (100% basis) by 2018.
Given the scale of this project and the challenging nature of
the geology and mining method, we have made significant progress.
We will continue to develop this asset in a safe and deliberate
manner to ensure we realize the economic benefits of this
project.
FUEL SERVICES
Fuel services produced 14.9 million kgU, slightly higher than
our plan at the beginning of the year and 5% higher than 2012 when
we reduced production in response to weak market conditions.
In July, unionized employees at our Port Hope conversion
facility accepted new three-year collective agreements, which
include a 6% wage increase over the term of the agreements.
In December 2012, we received a positive decision on the
environmental assessment for the Port Hope conversion facility
cleanup and modernization (Vision in Motion, formerly
Vision 2010) from Canada's Environment Minister. In 2013,
we began the licensing process with the CNSC, which is required to
advance the project. The process will continue in 2014.
Based on the current weak market for UF6 conversion, we do not
anticipate an extension of our toll conversion contract with SFL
beyond 2016. If market conditions improve over the next few years,
we would consider resuming our discussions to extend the
contract.
We have decreased our production target for 2014 to between 13
million and 14 million kgU in response to weak market
conditions.
Qualified persons
The technical and scientific information discussed in this
document for our material properties (McArthur River/Key Lake,
Inkai and Cigar Lake) were approved by the following individuals
who are qualified persons for the purposes of NI 43-101:
McArthur River/Key Lake
- David Bronkhorst, vice-president, mining and technology,
Cameco
- Les Yesnik, general manager, Key Lake, Cameco
Cigar Lake
- Scott Bishop, principal mine engineer, technology group,
Cameco
Inkai
- Ken Gullen, technical director, international, Cameco
Caution about forward-looking information
This document includes statements and information about our
expectations for the future. When we discuss our strategy, plans,
future financial and operating performance, or other things that
have not yet taken place, we are making statements considered to be
forward-looking information or forward-looking statements
under Canadian and United States securities laws. We refer to them
in this document as forward-looking information.
Key things to understand about the forward-looking information
in this document:
- It typically includes words and phrases about the future, such
as: believe, estimate, anticipate, expect, plan, intend, goal,
target, project, potential, strategy and outlook (see examples
below).
- It represents our current views, and can change
significantly.
- It is based on a number of material assumptions, including
those we have listed below, which may prove to be incorrect.
- Actual results and events may be significantly different from
what we currently expect, due to the risks associated with our
business. We list a number of these material risks below. We
recommend you also review our most recent annual information form
and management's discussion and analysis, which includes a
discussion of other material risks that could cause actual results
to differ significantly from our current expectations.
- Forward-looking information is designed to help you understand
management's current views of our near and longer term prospects,
and may not be appropriate for other purposes. We will not
necessarily update this information unless we are required to by
securities laws.
Examples of forward-looking information in this document
- our expectations about 2014 and future global uranium supply,
demand, number of nuclear plants, and nuclear generating capacity,
including the discussion under the heading The nuclear energy
industry today
- the discussion under the heading Our strategy,
including our expectation that market challenges will continue for
the near to medium term
- our consolidated outlook for the year and the outlook for our
uranium, fuel services and NUKEM segments for 2014
- our expectations for uranium deliveries in the first quarter
and for the balance of 2014
- future tax payments and rates
- our uranium price sensitivity analysis
- our expectations for 2014, 2015 and 2016 capital
expenditures
- our expectations regarding our tax dispute with CRA and future
tax reassessments by CRA
- 2014 forecast production at our uranium operations
- our expectations and plans for each of McArthur River/Key Lake,
Inkai, Cigar Lake, and fuel services operating sites
Material risks
- actual sales volumes or market prices for any of our products
or services are lower than we expect for any reason, including
changes in market prices or loss of market share to a
competitor
- we are adversely affected by changes in foreign currency
exchange rates, interest rates or tax rates
- our production costs are higher than planned, or necessary
supplies are not available, or not available on commercially
reasonable terms
- our estimates of production, purchases, costs, decommissioning
or reclamation expenses, or our tax expense estimates, prove to be
inaccurate
- we are unable to enforce our legal rights under our existing
agreements, permits or licences
- we are subject to litigation or arbitration that has an adverse
outcome, including lack of success in our dispute with CRA
- there are defects in, or challenges to, title to our
properties
- our mineral reserve and resource estimates are not reliable, or
we face unexpected or challenging geological, hydrological or
mining conditions
- we are affected by environmental, safety and regulatory risks,
including increased regulatory burdens or delays
- we cannot obtain or maintain necessary permits or approvals
from government authorities
- we are affected by political risks in a developing country
where we operate
- we are affected by terrorism, sabotage, blockades, civil
unrest, social or political activism, accident or a deterioration
in political support for, or demand for, nuclear energy
- we are impacted by changes in the regulation or public
perception of the safety of nuclear power plants, which adversely
affect the construction of new plants, the relicensing of existing
plants and the demand for uranium
- there are changes to government regulations or policies that
adversely affect us, including tax and trade laws and policies
- our uranium and conversion suppliers fail to fulfill delivery
commitments
- our Cigar Lake mining or production plans are delayed or do not
succeed, including as a result of any difficulties with the jet
boring mining method or freezing the deposit to meet production
targets, any difficulties with the McClean Lake mill modifications
or commissioning or milling of Cigar Lake ore, or our inability to
acquire any of the required jet boring equipment
- our McArthur River development, mining or production plans do
not succeed for any reason
- we are affected by natural phenomena, including inclement
weather, fire, flood and earthquakes
- our operations are disrupted due to problems with our own or
our customers' facilities, the unavailability of reagents,
equipment, operating parts and supplies critical to production,
equipment failure, lack of tailings capacity, labour shortages,
labour relations issues (including an inability to renew agreements
with unionized employees at McArthur River and Key Lake), strikes
or lockouts, underground floods, cave ins, ground movements,
tailings dam failures, transportation disruptions or accidents, or
other development and operating risks
Material assumptions
- our expectations regarding sales and purchase volumes and
prices for uranium, fuel services and electricity
- our expectations regarding the demand for uranium, the
construction of new nuclear power plants and the relicensing of
existing nuclear power plants not being adversely affected by
changes in regulation or in the public perception of the safety of
nuclear power plants
- our expected production level and production costs
- the assumptions regarding market conditions upon which we have
based our capital expenditure expectations
- our expectations regarding spot prices and realized prices for
uranium, and other factors discussed on under Price sensitivity
analysis: uranium
- our expectations regarding tax rates and payments, foreign
currency exchange rates and interest rates
- our expectations regarding the outcome of the dispute with
CRA
- our decommissioning and reclamation expenses
- our mineral reserve and resource estimates, and the assumptions
upon which they are based, are reliable
- the geological, hydrological and other conditions at our
mines
- our Cigar Lake mining and production plans succeed, including
the additional jet boring system unit is acquired on schedule and
the jet boring mining method and our plans to freeze the deposit to
meet production targets succeeds
- mill modifications and commissioning of the McClean Lake mill
are completed as planned and the mill is able to process Cigar Lake
ore as expected
- our McArthur River development, mining and production plans
succeed
- our ability to continue to supply our products and services in
the expected quantities and at the expected times
- our ability to comply with current and future environmental,
safety and other regulatory requirements, and to obtain and
maintain required regulatory approvals
- our operations are not significantly disrupted as a result of
political instability, nationalization, terrorism, sabotage,
blockades, civil unrest, social or political activism, equipment
breakdown, natural disasters, governmental or political actions,
litigation or arbitration proceedings, the unavailability of
reagents, equipment, operating parts and supplies critical to
production, labour shortages, labour relations issues (including an
inability to renew agreements with unionized employees at McArthur
River and Key Lake), strikes or lockouts, underground floods, cave
ins, ground movements, tailings dam failure, lack of tailings
capacity, transportation disruptions or accidents or other
development or operating risks
Quarterly dividend notice
We announced today that our board of directors approved a
quarterly dividend of $0.10 per share on the outstanding common
shares of the corporation that is payable on April 15, 2014, to
shareholders of record at the close of business on March 31,
2014.
Conference call
We invite you to join our fourth quarter conference call on
Monday, February 10, 2014 at 1:00 p.m. Eastern.
The call will be open to all investors and the media. To join
the call, please dial (866) 225-0198 (Canada and US) or (416)
340-8061. An operator will put your call through. A live audio feed
of the conference call will be available from a link at cameco.com.
See the link on our home page on the day of the call.
A recorded version of the proceedings will be available:
- on our website, cameco.com, shortly after the call
- on post view until midnight, Eastern, March 13, 2014 by calling
(800) 408-3053 (Canada and US) or (905) 694-9451 (Passcode
7039949#)
Additional information
Our 2013 annual management's discussion and analysis and annual
audited financial statements will be available shortly on SEDAR at
sedar.com, on EDGAR at sec.gov/edgar.shtml and on our website at
cameco.com. Our 2013 annual information form is expected to be
available later in February.
Profile
We are one of the world's largest uranium producers, a
significant supplier of conversion services and one of two CANDU
fuel manufacturers in Canada. Our competitive position is based on
our controlling ownership of the world's largest high-grade
reserves and low-cost operations. Our uranium products are used to
generate clean electricity in nuclear power plants around the
world. We also explore for uranium in the Americas, Australia and
Asia. Our shares trade on the Toronto and New York stock exchanges.
Our head office is in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.
As used in this news release, the terms we, us, our, the Company
and Cameco mean Cameco Corporation and its subsidiaries; including
NUKEM GmbH, unless otherwise indicated.
CamecoInvestor inquiries:Rachelle Girard(306) 956-6403Media
inquiries:Gord Struthers(306) 956-6593
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