The New Politics Of Energy Abundance [View article]
Four stage compressor ? How much psi are we talking about to 'fill' the tank of a 3000 lb (including payload) CNG vehicle, assuming a 200bhp @ 4500 rpm, and a distance of 100-200 miles (commuting) ?
Clean Energy Fuels (CLNE) says it concluded the first stage of America's Natural Gas Highway network of liquefied natural gas fueling stations for long-haul, heavy-duty freight trucking. CLNE expects to complete 70 new LNG fuel stations along major U.S. highways by year's end, mostly at existing Pilot-Flying J truck stops; in 2013, CLNE plans to build 70-80 additional LNG fuel stations. [View news story]
Is this not what they're doing ? Seems like the right approach, since LNG active storage volume require a smaller footprint.
Duke Energy: A Low-Risk, High-Return Utility Stock To Buy [View article]
<gators>Thanks for your comments, very knowledgeable and well stated. Additionally, I am in complete agreement with you. I look forward to seeing a prompt and smooth transition in management. I'm quite aware of the advantages of the utilities sector with reference to "cost of capital", as well as other large industries. Pay off long term debt at lower rates. Duke will be going through some very costly events in the next few years, and may be facing some difficult times when they request customer rate increases. On the plus side, they will have to operate/manage more efficiently.
I must only address your statement of a "monopoly". Electric Utilities, are a quasi-monopoly. True they are assigned a defined 'service area', but their ROE is audited and approved by their respective PUC/PSA with an oversight from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). They are a service provider and a business, just as you. The only difference is that they are restricted to a ROE of approximately 10% (variable from state-to-state). Rate Requests are publicly heard and the 'commission(s)' rarely grant the full request, sometimes not at all. There are other procedures and requirements, but is probably pointless at this juncture.
Long on Duke........Bought (again) at $61.50. I am strong on Utilities, also. You may want to check out NGG. UK home office and service area to include US (no foreign taxes). Great dividends, but do your research.
North Carolina's utility regulator gives full approval to the settlement with Duke Energy (DUK +0.7%) over the company's leadership plans. Barclays upgrades shares to Overweight, seeing a material reduction in political and regulatory risk after the settlement. The firm raises its estimates, reflecting its view of management's ability to post earnings growth next year. [View news story]
"Rate increase........" as in Dividend or consumer cost (rate) increase ? I'm confused by your statement. I'm not sure there will be any consumer cost (rate) increase approval in the near future by the Commission(s), especially in NC, SC or Fla. Too much public opposition resulting from the merger fiasco and demonstration of poor management and Board of Directors.
Any increase in dividend is also questionable due to Margin (FCF). Excessive cost over-run and delays related to their Bio project in Indiana and questionable action of Crystal River #3 Nuclear Unit (formally, Progress Energy's albatross) in Florida.
Sure hope I'm wrong, though. Bought @ $61.50. Long, Long on DUK.
Duke Energy: A Low-Risk, High-Return Utility Stock To Buy [View article]
<gators> Thanks for the partial agreement, Duke 'claims' that Rogers' retirement was already scheduled for end of year (2013). At the "end of his contract period". Never aware of the CEO 'contract', but rather at the discretion of the person or vote of the Directors/stockholders. Hopefully, a transition can be made before the end of 2013 and move on.
Read recent news (today) with reference to NC Commission and NC Attorney General Office's investigations.
Investors approved of the proposed settlement with the N.C. Utilities Commission that effectively forces Jim Rogers out of any leadership role at Duke Energy (DUK +2.3%). The regulators clearly were out to get Rogers; adding insult to injury, the CEO search committee and DUK’s board are not permitted to appoint anyone who has served as DUK’s CEO, chairman or president - the titles Rogers holds. [View news story]
It is very possible that you are correct about Bill Johnson (former CEO @ Progress) with the Fla. and NC PSC. Only has the PSC's had an input as to Duke's next CEO of the combined company, is due to the fiasco of the 'immediate' dismissal of Bill Johnson. Duke, James Rogers (CEO) and the Board of Directors (BOD) are all under investigation by the NC Attorney General's Office. The 'Commissions' will only 'oversee' the appointment of the next CEO to prevent another occurrence that happened after the Merger Approval. The Commission(s), FERC, SEC, NCAG, etc. were all 'blindsided' by Duke (Jim Rogers-CEO & BOD) actions, and are determined to see that Duke will appoint the most qualified and honorable CEO successor. If the NC PSC does 'appoint a CEO, it will only be an interim CEO, until Duke (BOD & stockholders) can appoint a person to best serve the company, customers and stockholders.
Unfortunately, the CR#3 costs will continue to be partially on backs of the customers, even if it is abandoned or decommissioned. I don't expect Duke to attempt any repairs due to the extreme costs involved. The age of the plant vs. newer technology also make it cost(s) prohibitive.
Energy sector CFOs lobby for low dividend tax rates, but they're resigned to at least a small increase. Southern (SO) CFO Art Beattie's top concern is that the tax on dividends not be delinked from the tax on capital gains: “If you delink them, you are penalizing dividend-paying companies as opposed to companies like Apple, which is a growth company and doesn’t pay out much in dividends.” [View news story]
Duke Energy: A Low-Risk, High-Return Utility Stock To Buy [View article]
<metal27> & <gators>All large Electric Utilities', including Duke, are 'self insured' so no real break from insurance coverage, just a transfer of funds within the company. Still very costly to Duke, indirectly.
Let's generalize and re-cap the events: There obviously was a period of potential-merger negotiations before Progress agreed (1-2 years, est.) with the basic understanding that Bill Johnson would be CEO of the 'merged companies'. Some of the existing Progress Exec.'s and Directors would also become part of the merged company.
Another eighteen (18) months to get the appropriate commission(s)' and other authorities' Final Merger Approval. Again, with the understanding that Johnson would be the CEO and James Rogers would be appointed to head the Board of Directors, with other guidelines. Immediately (?) upon receipt of the approval, it was 'decided' by James Rogers (to remain CEO of Duke) and Duke's Board of Directors, that Bill Johnson (quote) "was not a good fit" for the merged companies and cannot be the CEO as previously agreed. Rogers also stated that Duke was (quote) "mislead" concerning CR#3. What an excuse/comment !
SUMMARY: By the Duke agreement of Bill Johnson as CEO, Progress Executives and BOD appointments, this was seen as a positive by the authorities and definitely influenced their approval decision. The Commissioners (including other authorities) were 'blindsided' when Duke made the announcement about Johnson, which had to be determined (planned ?) far in advance of the final merger approval.
With reference to CR#3: There was adequate time for Duke to have independent consultants to investigate the status of CR#3 and cost options, and not rely on any 'hearsay' (?) from Progress. Surely they must be better managed than that.
Resultant: Unhappy Commissions (all states), Stockholders (institutional), Employees and Customers.
The NCUC has begun their sanctions on Duke, and the NC Attorney General's Office continues their investigation. However, I predict that it will be years before this is forgotten by ALL commissioners in ALL the states served by Duke with reference to rate increases (NC, SC, Fla., Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, etc). My money is on a better managed company.
1) I spoke of official strikes (or walkout, as you stated) in general, not specific to Verizon, WalMart, Restaurants or anyone else. Only specific to UNIONS. It appears that we have meandered off of the Article's Subject anyway.
2) I refuse to connect to any link from anyone considered "unknown". Rather risky don't you think ? I presume that it has something to do to enforce your opinion.
3) I am well versed in Labor Laws (and Acts), both civil (private) and governmental. I merely wanted to point out that sometimes a Strike is not productive, albeit, counterproductive.
4) Yes, I'm aware of the current, as well as the past (historical), labor events that you stated. How can I not be ?
5) Grammatical errors : Please accept my most humble apology (your vs. you're). I've reviewed my ?'s and all seem appropriate as intended.
I believe that we have now adequately expressed our differences and entertained the other commentators. I respect your opinions, but to continue would be of no value via this site. It's been a joy. Any response will be ignored. Nuf Said.
Duke Energy (DUK) CEO Jim Rogers says he intends to retire by the end of 2013, consistent with the expiration of his contract. A special board committee will oversee the recommendation of a successor, as stipulated in DUK's just-announced settlement with North Carolina regulators regarding the management succession following the merger with Progress Energy. [View news story]
I didn't intend it to be an "indictment", just my opinion from personal exposure about one man, specifically. No, two dots do not paint a picture, unfortunately, but the undisclosed character is rather dismal. BTW have you heard about the possibility of Rogers becoming Secretary of Energy ? At this point Rogers says he is not interested(?). We'll see................
Mind The Momentum On Cheniere Energy, Clean Energy Fuels And The Russell 2000 [View article]
Linn Energy: Inside The Numbers [View article]
Linn Energy: Inside The Numbers [View article]
The New Politics Of Energy Abundance [View article]
Clean Energy Fuels (CLNE) says it concluded the first stage of America's Natural Gas Highway network of liquefied natural gas fueling stations for long-haul, heavy-duty freight trucking. CLNE expects to complete 70 new LNG fuel stations along major U.S. highways by year's end, mostly at existing Pilot-Flying J truck stops; in 2013, CLNE plans to build 70-80 additional LNG fuel stations. [View news story]
Duke Energy: A Low-Risk, High-Return Utility Stock To Buy [View article]
I must only address your statement of a "monopoly". Electric Utilities, are a quasi-monopoly. True they are assigned a defined 'service area', but their ROE is audited and approved by their respective PUC/PSA with an oversight from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). They are a service provider and a business, just as you. The only difference is that they are restricted to a ROE of approximately 10% (variable from state-to-state). Rate Requests are publicly heard and the 'commission(s)' rarely grant the full request, sometimes not at all. There are other procedures and requirements, but is probably pointless at this juncture.
Long on Duke........Bought (again) at $61.50. I am strong on Utilities, also. You may want to check out NGG. UK home office and service area to include US (no foreign taxes). Great dividends, but do your research.
North Carolina's utility regulator gives full approval to the settlement with Duke Energy (DUK +0.7%) over the company's leadership plans. Barclays upgrades shares to Overweight, seeing a material reduction in political and regulatory risk after the settlement. The firm raises its estimates, reflecting its view of management's ability to post earnings growth next year. [View news story]
Any increase in dividend is also questionable due to Margin (FCF). Excessive cost over-run and delays related to their Bio project in Indiana and questionable action of Crystal River #3 Nuclear Unit (formally, Progress Energy's albatross) in Florida.
Sure hope I'm wrong, though. Bought @ $61.50. Long, Long on DUK.
Duke Energy: A Low-Risk, High-Return Utility Stock To Buy [View article]
Read recent news (today) with reference to NC Commission and NC Attorney General Office's investigations.
Mind The Momentum On Cheniere Energy, Clean Energy Fuels And The Russell 2000 [View article]
Investors approved of the proposed settlement with the N.C. Utilities Commission that effectively forces Jim Rogers out of any leadership role at Duke Energy (DUK +2.3%). The regulators clearly were out to get Rogers; adding insult to injury, the CEO search committee and DUK’s board are not permitted to appoint anyone who has served as DUK’s CEO, chairman or president - the titles Rogers holds. [View news story]
Unfortunately, the CR#3 costs will continue to be partially on backs of the customers, even if it is abandoned or decommissioned. I don't expect Duke to attempt any repairs due to the extreme costs involved. The age of the plant vs. newer technology also make it cost(s) prohibitive.
Energy sector CFOs lobby for low dividend tax rates, but they're resigned to at least a small increase. Southern (SO) CFO Art Beattie's top concern is that the tax on dividends not be delinked from the tax on capital gains: “If you delink them, you are penalizing dividend-paying companies as opposed to companies like Apple, which is a growth company and doesn’t pay out much in dividends.” [View news story]
Duke Energy: A Low-Risk, High-Return Utility Stock To Buy [View article]
Let's generalize and re-cap the events: There obviously was a period of potential-merger negotiations before Progress agreed (1-2 years, est.) with the basic understanding that Bill Johnson would be CEO of the 'merged companies'. Some of the existing Progress Exec.'s and Directors would also become part of the merged company.
Another eighteen (18) months to get the appropriate commission(s)' and other authorities' Final Merger Approval. Again, with the understanding that Johnson would be the CEO and James Rogers would be appointed to head the Board of Directors, with other guidelines. Immediately (?) upon receipt of the approval, it was 'decided' by James Rogers (to remain CEO of Duke) and Duke's Board of Directors, that Bill Johnson (quote) "was not a good fit" for the merged companies and cannot be the CEO as previously agreed. Rogers also stated that Duke was (quote) "mislead" concerning CR#3. What an excuse/comment !
SUMMARY: By the Duke agreement of Bill Johnson as CEO, Progress Executives and BOD appointments, this was seen as a positive by the authorities and definitely influenced their approval decision. The Commissioners (including other authorities) were 'blindsided' when Duke made the announcement about Johnson, which had to be determined (planned ?) far in advance of the final merger approval.
With reference to CR#3: There was adequate time for Duke to have independent consultants to investigate the status of CR#3 and cost options, and not rely on any 'hearsay' (?) from Progress. Surely they must be better managed than that.
Resultant: Unhappy Commissions (all states), Stockholders (institutional), Employees and Customers.
The NCUC has begun their sanctions on Duke, and the NC Attorney General's Office continues their investigation. However, I predict that it will be years before this is forgotten by ALL commissioners in ALL the states served by Duke with reference to rate increases (NC, SC, Fla., Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, etc). My money is on a better managed company.
Union Troubles Could Hurt Verizon [View article]
1) I spoke of official strikes (or walkout, as you stated) in general, not specific to Verizon, WalMart, Restaurants or anyone else. Only specific to UNIONS. It appears that we have meandered off of the Article's Subject anyway.
2) I refuse to connect to any link from anyone considered "unknown". Rather risky don't you think ? I presume that it has something to do to enforce your opinion.
3) I am well versed in Labor Laws (and Acts), both civil (private) and governmental. I merely wanted to point out that sometimes a Strike is not productive, albeit, counterproductive.
4) Yes, I'm aware of the current, as well as the past (historical), labor events that you stated. How can I not be ?
5) Grammatical errors : Please accept my most humble apology (your vs. you're). I've reviewed my ?'s and all seem appropriate as intended.
I believe that we have now adequately expressed our differences and entertained the other commentators. I respect your opinions, but to continue would be of no value via this site. It's been a joy. Any response will be ignored. Nuf Said.
Duke Energy (DUK) CEO Jim Rogers says he intends to retire by the end of 2013, consistent with the expiration of his contract. A special board committee will oversee the recommendation of a successor, as stipulated in DUK's just-announced settlement with North Carolina regulators regarding the management succession following the merger with Progress Energy. [View news story]
Thanks.
Duke Energy: A Low-Risk, High-Return Utility Stock To Buy [View article]