Genie Energy Ltd. - Quarter Report: 2016 September (Form 10-Q)

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

☒ QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

FOR THE QUARTERLY PERIOD ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2016

or

☐ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

Commission File Number: 1-35327

GENIE ENERGY LTD.

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)

(973) 438-3500

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes ☒    No ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes ☒    No ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.): Yes ☐     No ☒

As of November 7, 2016, the registrant had the following shares outstanding:

GENIE ENERGY LTD.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1. Financial Statements (Unaudited)

GENIE ENERGY LTD.

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

GENIE ENERGY LTD.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(Unaudited)

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

GENIE ENERGY LTD.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE (LOSS) INCOME

(Unaudited)

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. 

GENIE ENERGY LTD.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Unaudited)

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 GENIE ENERGY LTD.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)

Note 1—Basis of Presentation

The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements of Genie Energy Ltd. and its subsidiaries (the “Company” or “Genie”) have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by U.S. GAAP for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included. Operating results for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending December 31, 2016. The balance sheet at December 31, 2015 has been derived from the Company’s audited financial statements at that date but does not include all of the information and footnotes required by U.S. GAAP for complete financial statements. For further information, please refer to the consolidated financial statements and footnotes thereto included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015, as filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”).

The Company owns 99.3% of its subsidiary, Genie Energy International Corporation (“GEIC”), which owns 100% of Genie Retail Energy (“GRE”) and 92% of Genie Oil and Gas, Inc. (“GOGAS”). The Company’s principal businesses consist of the following:

GRE has outstanding deferred stock units granted to directors and employees that represent an interest of 2.6% of the equity of GRE.

Seasonality and Weather

The weather and the seasons, among other things, affect GRE’s revenues. Weather conditions have a significant impact on the demand for natural gas used for heating and electricity used for heating and cooling. Typically, colder winters increase demand for natural gas and electricity, and hotter summers increase demand for electricity. Milder winters and/or summers have the opposite effect. Natural gas revenues typically increase in the first quarter due to increased heating demands and electricity revenues typically increase in the third quarter due to increased air conditioning use. Approximately 64% and 59% of GRE’s natural gas revenues for the relevant years were generated in the first quarter of 2015 and 2014, respectively, when demand for heating was highest. Although the demand for electricity is not as seasonal as natural gas (due, in part, to usage of electricity for both heating and cooling), approximately 30% and 20% of GRE’s electricity revenues for the relevant years were generated in the third quarter of 2015 and 2014, respectively. Because of dramatic increases in wholesale electricity prices in January and February 2014, the retail electricity prices that the GRE-owned REPs and many other variable rate electricity suppliers charged to their customers also increased sharply. As a result, approximately 45% of GRE’s electricity revenues in 2014 were generated in the first quarter of 2014. GRE’s revenues and operating income are subject to material seasonal variations, and the interim financial results are not necessarily indicative of the estimated financial results for the full year.

Note 2—Revised Financial Statements

Reclassifications

In the consolidated statement of operations, $0.6 million and $1.9 million previously included in “Financing fees” in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2015, respectively, have been reclassified to “Cost of revenues” to conform to the current year’s presentation.

Correction of Errors

In the consolidated statement of operations, Pennsylvania gross receipt tax was previously recorded as a reduction to electricity revenue instead of as cost of revenues. Electricity revenues and cost of revenues were adjusted to correct the classification by reflecting additional revenue and cost of revenues in the consolidated statement of operations in the amount of $0.7 million in the three months ended March 31, 2016, $0.6 million in the three months ended June 30, 2016, and $0.8 million and $2.3 million in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2015, respectively.

GRE prepays various electricity costs that are subsequently charged to cost of revenues when the related electricity revenue is recognized. In the third quarter of 2016, the Company concluded that certain of these amounts included in “Prepaid expenses” in its consolidated balance sheet at March 31, 2016 and June 30, 2016 should have been charged to cost of revenues in the first and second quarters of 2016. The amounts that should have been charged to cost of revenues were $0.8 million in the three months ended March 31, 2016 and $0.7 million in the three months ended June 30, 2016. During the third quarter of 2016, the Company revised its first and second quarters of 2016 by reducing prepaid expenses and increasing electricity cost of revenues.

The correction of these errors resulted in adjustments to the Company’s consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and June 30, 2016, and its consolidated balance sheets at March 31, 2016 and June 30, 2016.

The impact of these adjustments on the Company’s consolidated financial statements was as follows:

Note 3—Fair Value Measurements

The following table presents the balance of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis:

(1) – quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities

(2) – observable inputs other than quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities

(3) – no observable pricing inputs in the market

The Company’s derivative contracts consist of natural gas and electricity put and call options and swaps. The underlying asset in the Company’s put and call options is a forward contract. The Company’s swaps are agreements whereby a floating (or market or spot) price is exchanged for a fixed price over a specified period. The Company’s derivatives were classified as Level 1 or Level 2. The Level 1 derivatives were valued using quoted prices in active markets for identical contracts. The Level 2 derivatives were valued using observable inputs based on quoted market prices in active markets for similar contracts.

Fair Value of Other Financial Instruments

The estimated fair value of the Company’s other financial instruments was determined using available market information or other appropriate valuation methodologies. However, considerable judgment is required in interpreting this data to develop estimates of fair value. Consequently, the estimates are not necessarily indicative of the amounts that could be realized or would be paid in a current market exchange.

Restricted cash—short-term and long-term, certificates of deposit, prepaid expenses, other current assets, advances from customers, due to IDT Corporation and other current liabilities. At September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the carrying amounts of these assets and liabilities approximated fair value because of the short period to maturity. The fair value estimate for restricted cash—short-term and long-term was classified as Level 1 and certificates of deposit, prepaid expenses, other current assets, advances from customers, due to IDT Corporation and other current liabilities were classified as Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Other assets, revolving credit loan payable, and other liabilities. At September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, other assets included an aggregate of $1.0 million and $1.5 million, respectively, in notes receivable. The carrying amounts of the notes receivable, revolving credit loan payable and other liabilities approximated fair value. The fair values were estimated based on the Company’s assumptions, and were classified as Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

Note 4—Derivative Instruments

The primary risk managed by the Company using derivative instruments is commodity price risk, which is accounted for in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification 815—Derivatives and Hedging. Natural gas and electricity put and call options and swaps are entered into as hedges against unfavorable fluctuations in market prices of natural gas and electricity. The Company does not apply hedge accounting to these options or swaps, therefore the changes in fair value are recorded in earnings. By using derivative instruments to mitigate exposures to changes in commodity prices, the Company exposes itself to credit risk and market risk. Credit risk is the failure of the counterparty to perform under the terms of the derivative contract. When the fair value of a derivative contract is positive, the counterparty owes the Company, which creates credit risk. The Company minimizes the credit or repayment risk in derivative instruments by entering into transactions with high-quality counterparties. At September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, GRE’s swaps and options were traded on the New York Mercantile Exchange.

The summarized volume of GRE’s outstanding contracts and options at September 30, 2016 was as follows (MWh – Megawatt hour and Dth – Decatherm):

The fair value of outstanding derivative instruments recorded as assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets were as follows:

The fair value of outstanding derivative instruments recorded as liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets were as follows:

The effects of derivative instruments on the consolidated statements of operations were as follows:

Note 5—Afek Oil and Gas Exploration Activities

On February 1, 2016, Israel’s Northern District Planning and Building Committee approved a two-year permit extension for Afek to continue to conduct its up to ten-well oil and gas exploration program. This extension is expected to cover the remainder of Afek’s ongoing exploration program in the area covered by it exploration license. In April 2016, Afek received an extension of its license from the Israeli Ministry of Energy and Water through April 9, 2017. Afek is conducting its oil and gas exploration program pursuant to that license.

The Company accounts for Afek’s oil and gas activities under the successful efforts method of accounting. Under this method, the costs of drilling exploratory wells and exploratory-type stratigraphic test wells are capitalized, pending determination of whether the well has found proved reserves. Other exploration costs are charged to expense as incurred. Unproved properties are assessed for impairment, and if considered impaired, are charged to expense when such impairment is deemed to have occurred.

In February 2015, Afek began drilling its first exploratory well. To date, Afek has completed drilling five wells in the Southern region of its license area. Afek continues to analyze data collected from the five wells drilled and from the flow tests conducted at two of the completed wells. In light of the analysis received in the third quarter of 2016 and given current market conditions, Afek determined that, based on current information, it did not have a clear path to demonstrate probable or possible reserves in the Southern region of its license area over the next 12 to 18 months. Since there was substantial doubt regarding the economic viability of these wells, in the three months ended September 30, 2016, Afek wrote off the $41.0 million of capitalized exploration costs incurred in the Southern region. Certain analysis and non-field work continues related to the Southern portion of Afek’s license area.

In the three months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, the Company recognized exploration expense of $1.3 million and $1.5 million, respectively, and in the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, the Company recognized exploration expense of $4.4 million in both periods.

Afek has turned its operational focus to the Northern region of its license area. Afek views the Northern and Southern regions separately when evaluating its unproved properties. The data analyzed to date suggests that the Southern block resources may extend northward at depths potentially sufficient to have induced a greater level of maturation of the resource. To validate this hypothesis, Afek plans to drill an exploration well at one of the Northern sites in its original drilling permit approvals. Subject to permitting and completion of drilling rig upgrades, Afek expects to spud this well in the first quarter of 2017.

Afek assesses the economic and operational viability of its project on an ongoing basis. The assessment requires significant estimates and assumptions by management. Should Afek’s estimates or assumptions regarding the recoverability of future capitalized exploration costs, if any, prove to be incorrect, Afek may be required to record impairments of such costs in future periods and such impairments could be material.

Note 6—Investment in American Shale Oil, LLC

Through April 30, 2016, the Company accounted for its ownership interest in AMSO, LLC using the equity method since the Company had the ability to exercise significant influence over its operating and financial matters, although it did not control AMSO, LLC. AMSO, LLC was a variable interest entity, however, the Company determined that it was not the primary beneficiary, as the Company did not have the power to direct the activities of AMSO, LLC that most significantly impact AMSO, LLC’s economic performance.

On February 23, 2016, Total notified the Company of its decision not to continue to fund AMSO, LLC. On March 23, 2016, Total gave AMSO its notice of withdrawal from AMSO, LLC. The withdrawal was effective on April 30, 2016. The Company is currently decommissioning the project. As of April 1, 2016, AMSO and Total agreed that Total would pay AMSO, LLC $3.0 million as full payment of its share of all costs associated with the decommissioning, winding up and dissolution of AMSO, LLC. Total will not be refunded any amount if the decommissioning costs are less than $3.0 million. Effective April 30, 2016, AMSO, LLC’s assets, liabilities, results of operations and cash flows are included in the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

The following table summarizes the change in the balance of the Company’s investment in AMSO, LLC:

At December 31, 2015, the liability for equity loss in AMSO, LLC was included in “Accrued expenses” in the consolidated balance sheet.

Summarized unaudited statements of operations of AMSO, LLC through the April 30, 2016 acquisition date are as follows:

Summarized unaudited balance sheet of AMSO, LLC at April 30, 2016 (in thousands) is as follows:

The Company accounted for its acquisition on April 30, 2016 of Total’s ownership interest in AMSO, LLC as a business combination. The Company estimated the fair value of AMSO, LLC to be nil, as it had ceased operations and its shutdown was in progress. The Company recognized a gain from the acquisition of Total’s interest in AMSO, LLC because the Company acquired the net assets of AMSO, LLC while no consideration was transferred by the Company, due to the Company’s assumption of the risk associated with the shutdown obligations. The gain also included the Company’s gain on the remeasurement of AMSO’s investment in AMSO, LLC at its acquisition date fair value. The aggregate gain recognized was $1.3 million, which was included in “Gain on consolidation of AMSO, LLC” in the consolidated statements of operations.

Revenue, loss from operations and net loss of AMSO, LLC since the acquisition date included in the Company’s consolidated statement of operations are as follows:

Revenue and net (loss) income of the Company as if the acquisition of AMSO, LLC occurred on January 1, 2015 is as follows:

In April 2016, AMSO, LLC recorded a liability for the decommissioning of its project and the remediation of the leased area. The following table summarizes the change in the balance of the AMSO, LLC retirement obligations after the consolidation of AMSO, LLC:

Note 7—Equity

Changes in the components of equity were as follows:

Dividend Payments

On August 15, 2016, May 16, 2016 and on February 16, 2016, the Company paid a quarterly Base Dividend of $0.1594 per share on its Series 2012-A Preferred Stock (“Preferred Stock”) for the second quarter of 2016, the first quarter of 2016 and for the fourth quarter of 2015, respectively. The aggregate dividends paid on the Company’s Preferred Stock in each of the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 was $1.1 million. On October 14, 2016, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly Base Dividend of $0.1594 per share on the Preferred Stock for the third quarter of 2016. The dividend will be paid on or about November 15, 2016 to stockholders of record as of the close of business on October 28, 2016.

On August 26, 2016, May 20, 2016 and on February 12, 2016, the Company paid a quarterly dividend of $0.06 per share on its Class A common stock and Class B common stock. On May 22, 2015 and March 31, 2015, the Company paid a quarterly dividend of $0.06 per share on its Class A common stock and Class B common stock. The aggregate dividends paid on the Company’s Class A common stock and Class B common stock in the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 was $4.4 million and $3.0 million, respectively. In November 2016, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend of $0.06 per share on its Class A common stock and Class B common stock for the third quarter of 2016. The dividend will be paid on or about December 2, 2016 to stockholders of record as of the close of business on November 21, 2016.

Stock Repurchase Program

On March 11, 2013, the Board of Directors of the Company approved a stock repurchase program for the repurchase of up to an aggregate of 7.0 million shares of the Company’s Class B common stock. There were no repurchases under this program in the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015. At September 30, 2016, 6.9 million shares remained available for repurchase under the stock repurchase program.

Subsidiary Equity Grant Reclassified to Liability

GRE had the right to issue shares of the Company’s Class B common stock or pay cash to satisfy its obligations to issue common stock of GRE upon the vesting of the deferred stock units it had previously granted to officers and employees of the Company. GRE elected to pay cash for the deferred stock units that vested in June and July 2016. The Company paid cash in the amount of $1.7 million in August 2016 to satisfy its obligation to issue common stock of GRE.

Variable Interest Entity

Citizens Choice Energy, LLC (“CCE”), is a REP that resells electricity and natural gas to residential and small business customers in the State of New York. Since 2011, the Company provided CCE with substantially all of the cash required to fund its operations. The Company determined that it has the power to direct the activities of CCE that most significantly impact its economic performance and it has the obligation to absorb losses of CCE that could potentially be significant to CCE on a stand-alone basis. The Company therefore determined that it is the primary beneficiary of CCE, and as a result, the Company consolidates CCE within its GRE segment. The Company does not own any interest in CCE and thus the net income or loss incurred by CCE was attributed to noncontrolling interests in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.

In October 2015, GRE paid $0.2 million to the owner of the limited liability company interests in CCE, and loaned CCE $0.5 million in exchange for an option to purchase 100% of the issued and outstanding limited liability company interests of CCE for one dollar plus the forgiveness of the $0.5 million loan. The option expires on October 22, 2023.

Net income (loss) related to CCE and aggregate net funding repaid to (provided by) the Company by CCE in order to finance its operations were as follows:

Summarized combined balance sheet amounts related to CCE was as follows:

The assets of CCE may only be used to settle obligations of CCE, and may not be used for other consolidated entities. The liabilities of CCE are non-recourse to the general credit of the Company’s other consolidated entities.

Note 8—(Loss) Earnings Per Share

Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing net income or loss attributable to all classes of common stockholders of the Company by the weighted average number of shares of all classes of common stock outstanding during the applicable period. Diluted earnings per share is computed in the same manner as basic earnings per share, except that the number of shares is increased to include restricted stock still subject to risk of forfeiture and to assume exercise of potentially dilutive stock options using the treasury stock method, unless the effect of such increase is anti-dilutive.

The weighted-average number of shares used in the calculation of basic and diluted (loss) earnings per share attributable to the Company’s common stockholders consists of the following:

The following shares were excluded from the diluted loss per share computation because their inclusion would have been anti-dilutive:

The diluted loss per share equals basic loss per share in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016, and in the nine months ended September 30, 2015 because the Company had a net loss and the impact of the assumed exercise of stock options and vesting of restricted stock would have been anti-dilutive.

An entity affiliated with Lord (Jacob) Rothschild has a one-time option, subject to certain conditions and exercisable between November 2017 and February 2018, to exchange its GOGAS shares for shares of the Company with equal fair value as determined by the parties. The number of shares issuable in such an exchange is not currently determinable. If this option is exercised, the shares issued by the Company may dilute the earnings per share in future periods.

An employee of the Company, pursuant to the terms of his employment agreement, has the option to exchange his equity interests in IEI, Afek, Genie Mongolia and any equity interest that he may acquire in other entities that the Company may create, for shares of the Company. In addition, employees and directors of the Company that were previously granted restricted stock of Afek and Genie Mongolia have the right to exchange the restricted stock, upon vesting of such shares, into shares of the Company’s Class B common stock. GRE has the right, at its option, to satisfy its obligations to issue common stock of GRE upon the vesting of the deferred stock units it granted in July 2015 to officers and employees of the Company in shares of the Company’s Class B common stock or cash. These exchanges and issuances, if elected, would be based on the relative fair value of the shares exchanged or to be issued. The number of shares of the Company’s stock issuable in an exchange is not currently determinable. If shares of the Company’s stock are issued upon such exchange, the Company’s earnings per share may be diluted in future periods.

Note 9—Related Party Transactions

On October 28, 2011, the Company was spun-off by IDT, its former parent company, (the “Spin-Off”). The Company entered into various agreements with IDT prior to the Spin-Off including an agreement for certain services to be performed by the Company and IDT. Following the Spin-Off, the charges for services provided by IDT are included in “Selling, general and administrative” expense in the consolidated statements of operations. Also, the Company provides specified administrative services to certain of IDT’s foreign subsidiaries. The charges for these services reduce the Company’s “Selling, general and administrative” expense.

Note 10—Business Segment Information

The Company owns 99.3% of its subsidiary, GEIC, which owns 100% of GRE and 92% of GOGAS. The Company has three reportable business segments: GRE, Afek and GOGAS. GRE owns REPs including IDT Energy, Residents Energy and Retail Energy Holdings, LLC (see Note 14), and energy brokerage and marketing services. Its REP businesses resell electricity and natural gas to residential and small business customers primarily in the Eastern United States. The Afek segment is comprised of the Company’s 86.2% interest in Afek, which operates an oil and gas exploration project in the Golan Heights in Northern Israel. GOGAS is an oil and gas exploration company. The GOGAS segment is comprised of oil shale projects including (1) an 88.3% interest in Genie Mongolia, an oil shale exploration project in Central Mongolia, which is inactive, (2) a 98.3% interest in AMSO, which operated AMSO, LLC, an oil shale development project in Colorado that is being decommissioned, and (3) an 86.1% interest in IEI, an oil shale development project in Israel, which is inactive. GRE has outstanding deferred stock units granted to officers and employees that represent an interest of 2.6% of the equity of GRE. Corporate costs include unallocated compensation, consulting fees, legal fees, business development expense and other corporate-related general and administrative expense. Corporate does not generate any revenues, nor does it incur any cost of revenues. 

The Company’s reportable segments are distinguished by types of service, customers and methods used to provide their services. The operating results of these business segments are regularly reviewed by the Company’s chief operating decision maker.

The accounting policies of the segments are the same as the accounting policies of the Company as a whole. The Company evaluates the performance of its business segments based primarily on income (loss) from operations. There are no significant asymmetrical allocations to segments.

Operating results for the business segments of the Company were as follows:

Total assets for the business segments of the Company were as follows:

Note 11—Commitments and Contingencies

Legal Proceedings

On March 13, 2014, named plaintiff, Anthony Ferrare, commenced a putative class-action lawsuit against IDT Energy, Inc. in the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania. The complaint was served on IDT Energy on July 16, 2014. The named plaintiff filed the suit on behalf of himself and other former and current electric customers of IDT Energy in Pennsylvania with variable rate plans, whom he contends were injured as a result of IDT Energy’s allegedly unlawful sales and marketing practices. On August 7, 2014, IDT Energy removed the case to the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. On October 20, 2014, IDT Energy moved to stay or, alternatively, dismiss the complaint, as amended, by the named plaintiff. On November 10, 2014, the named plaintiff opposed IDT Energy’s motion to dismiss and IDT Energy filed a reply memorandum of law in further support of its motion to dismiss. On June 10, 2015, the Court granted IDT Energy’s motion to stay and denied its motion to dismiss without prejudice. The parties participated in mediation, and entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”) with respect to a proposed settlement of the above-captioned putative class action (as well as the other putative class actions referred to in this section). There are a number of material issues not addressed by the MOU that must be resolved before a settlement can be finalized. The parties notified the Court of that development and are working towards finalizing the settlement, which will need to be approved by the Court. The Company believes that the claims in this lawsuit are without merit.

On June 20, 2014, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office (“AG”) and the Acting Consumer Advocate (“OCA”) filed a Joint Complaint against IDT Energy, Inc. with the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (“PUC”). In the Joint Complaint, the AG and the OCA allege, among other things, various violations of Pennsylvania’s Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law, the Telemarketing Registration Act and the Pennsylvania PUC’s regulations. IDT Energy reached an agreement in principle on a settlement with the AG and the OCA to terminate the litigation with no admission of liability or finding of wrongdoing by IDT Energy. On August 4, 2015, IDT Energy, the AG, and the OCA filed a Joint Petition to the Pennsylvania PUC seeking approval of the settlement terms. Under the settlement, IDT Energy will issue additional refunds to its Pennsylvania customers who had variable rates for electricity supply in January, February and March of 2014. IDT Energy will also implement certain modifications to its sales, marketing and customer service processes, along with additional compliance and reporting requirements. The settlement was approved by the Pennsylvania PUC on July 8, 2016. In July 2016, IDT Energy paid the agreed-upon $2.4 million for additional customer refunds to a refund administrator, and that administrator is currently in the process of issuing the additional refunds to customers.

On July 2, 2014, named plaintiff, Louis McLaughlin, filed a putative class-action lawsuit against IDT Energy, Inc. in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York, contending that he and other class members were injured as a result of IDT Energy’s allegedly unlawful sales and marketing practices. The named plaintiff filed the suit on behalf of himself and two subclasses: all IDT Energy customers who were charged a variable rate for their energy from July 2, 2008, and all IDT Energy customers who participated in IDT Energy’s rebate program from July 2, 2008. On January 22, 2016, the named plaintiff filed an amended complaint on behalf of himself and all IDT Energy customers in New York State against IDT Energy, Inc., Genie Retail Energy, Genie Energy International Corporation, and Genie Energy Ltd. (collectively, “IDT Energy”). On February 22, 2016, IDT Energy moved to dismiss the amended complaint, and the named plaintiff opposed that motion. The parties participated in mediation, and entered into a MOU with respect to a proposed settlement of the above-captioned putative class action (as well as the other putative class actions referred to in this section). There are a number of material issues not addressed by the MOU that must be resolved before a settlement can be finalized. The parties notified the Court of that development and are working towards finalizing the settlement, which will need to be approved by the Court. The Company believes that the claims in this lawsuit are without merit.

On July 15, 2014, named plaintiff, Kimberly Aks, commenced a putative class-action lawsuit against IDT Energy, Inc. in New Jersey Superior Court, Essex County, contending that she and other class members were injured as a result of IDT Energy’s alleged unlawful sales and marketing practices. The named plaintiff filed the suit on behalf of herself and all other New Jersey residents who were IDT Energy customers at any time between July 11, 2008 and the present. The parties were engaged in discovery prior to the mediation described below. On April 20, 2016, the named plaintiff filed an amended complaint on behalf of herself and all IDT Energy customers in New Jersey against IDT Energy, Inc., Genie Retail Energy, Genie Energy International Corporation and Genie Energy Ltd. On June 27, 2016, defendants Genie Retail Energy, Genie Energy International Corporation and Genie Energy Ltd. filed a motion to dismiss the amended complaint. On August 26, 2016, the named plaintiff opposed that motion and IDT Energy filed a reply memorandum of law in further support of its motion to dismiss. The Court granted the motion to dismiss, but the parties agreed to set aside that decision to give the plaintiff an opportunity to submit opposition papers that had not been considered by the Court in rendering its decision. The parties participated in mediation, and entered into a MOU with respect to a proposed settlement of the above-captioned putative class action (as well as the other putative class actions referred to in this section). There are a number of material issues not addressed by the MOU that must be resolved before a settlement can be finalized. The parties notified the Court of that development and are working towards finalizing the settlement, which will need to be approved by the Court. The Company believes that the claims in this lawsuit are without merit.

In addition to the above, the Company may from time to time be subject to legal proceedings that arise in the ordinary course of business. Although there can be no assurance in this regard, the Company does not expect any of those legal proceedings to have a material adverse effect on the Company’s results of operations, cash flows or financial condition.

New York Public Service Commission Orders

On February 23, 2016, the New York Public Service Commission (“PSC”) issued an order that sought to impose significant new restrictions on REPs operating in New York, including those owned by GRE. The restrictions described in the PSC’s order, which were to become effective March 4, 2016, would require that all REPs’ electricity and natural gas offerings to residential and small business customers include an annual guarantee of savings compared to the price charged by the relevant incumbent utility or, for electricity offerings, provide at least 30% of the supply from renewable sources. Customers not enrolled in a compliant program would be relinquished back to the local utility at the end of their contract period or, for variable price customers operating on month to month agreements, at the end of the current monthly billing cycle.

On March 4, 2016, a group of parties from the REP industry sought and won a temporary restraining order to stay implementation of the most restrictive portions of the PSC’s order pending a court hearing on those parties’ motion for a preliminary injunction. On July 25, 2016, the New York State Supreme Court, County of Albany, entered a decision and order granting the Petitioners’ petition, vacated provisions 1 through 3 of the Order, and remitted the matter to the PSC for further proceedings consistent with the court’s order.

The PSC has indicated that it intends to issue a new order to achieve similar objectives without the deficiencies cited by the Court. The Company is evaluating the potential impact of any new order from the PSC in response to the Court’s vacating of the PSC’s order on its New York operations, while preparing to operate in compliance with any new requirements that may be imposed. Depending on the final language of any new order, as well as the Company’s ability to modify its relationships with its New York customers, an order could have a substantial impact upon the operations of GRE-owned REPs in New York.

On July 14, 2016, the PSC issued an Order restricting REPs, including those owned by GRE, from serving customers enrolled in New York’s utility low-income assistance programs. Most recently, on September 27, 2016, the New York State Supreme Court, Albany County, issued an order temporarily restraining the PSC from implementing the July 14, 2016 Order. Representatives of the REP industry challenged the ruling in Court on both procedural and substantive grounds. The judge set a November 18, 2016 return date for the industry’s request to continue that injunction for the duration of the proceeding, which seeks an order permanently invalidating the PSC’s order.

Purchase Commitments

The Company had purchase commitments of $16.5 million at September 30, 2016. The purchase commitments outstanding at September 30, 2016 are expected to be paid as follows: $12.1 million in the twelve months ending September 30, 2017, $3.3 million in the twelve months ending September 30, 2018 and $1.1 million in the twelve months ending September 30, 2019.

Renewable Energy Credits

GRE must obtain a certain percentage or amount of its power supply from renewable energy sources in order to meet the requirements of renewable portfolio standards in the states in which it operates. This requirement may be met by obtaining renewable energy credits that provide evidence that electricity has been generated by a qualifying renewable facility or resource. At September 30, 2016, GRE had commitments to purchase renewable energy credits of $42.1 million.

Tax Audits

The Company is subject to audits in various jurisdictions for various taxes. Amounts asserted by taxing authorities or the amount ultimately assessed against the Company could be greater than accrued amounts. Accordingly, additional provisions may be recorded in the future as revised estimates are made or underlying matters are settled or resolved. Imposition of assessments as a result of tax audits could have an adverse effect on the Company’s results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

Letters of Credit

At September 30, 2016, the Company had letters of credit outstanding totaling $8.2 million primarily for the benefit of regional transmission organizations that coordinate the movement of wholesale electricity and for certain utility companies. The letters of credit outstanding at September 30, 2016 expire as follows: $6.5 million in the twelve months ending September 30, 2017 and $1.7 million in the twelve months ending September 30, 2018.

Performance Bonds

GRE has performance bonds issued through a third party for the benefit of various states in order to comply with the states’ financial requirements for REPs. At September 30, 2016, GRE had aggregate performance bonds of $7.4 million outstanding.

Other Contingencies

As of November 19, 2015, IDT Energy and certain of its affiliates entered into an Amended and Restated Preferred Supplier Agreement with BP Energy Company (“BP”). The agreement’s termination date is November 30, 2019, except either party may terminate the agreement on November 30, 2018 by giving the other party notice by May 31, 2018. Under the agreement, IDT Energy purchases electricity and natural gas at market rate plus a fee. IDT Energy’s obligations to BP are secured by a first security interest in deposits or receivables from utilities in connection with their purchase of IDT Energy’s customer’s receivables, and in any cash deposits or letters of credit posted in connection with any collateral accounts with BP. IDT Energy’s ability to purchase electricity and natural gas under this agreement is subject to satisfaction of certain conditions including the maintenance of certain covenants. At September 30, 2016, the Company was in compliance with such covenants. At September 30, 2016, restricted cash—short-term of $0.2 million and trade accounts receivable of $33.1 million were pledged to BP as collateral for the payment of IDT Energy’s trade accounts payable to BP of $8.7 million at September 30, 2016.

Note 12—Revolving Lines of Credit

On December 17, 2015, GRE, IDT Energy and certain affiliates entered into a Credit Agreement with Maple Bank GmbH for a revolving loan facility. On December 17, 2015, GRE borrowed $2.0 million under the facility. In February 2016, the German banking regulator, Bafin, closed Maple Bank GmbH due to impending financial over-indebtedness related to tax-evasion investigations. In September 2016, GRE, and its affiliates entered into a settlement agreement with the court appointed liquidator of Maple Bank. Under this agreement, GRE paid $1.8 million as a full settlement of all of its obligations, and the revolving loan facility was terminated. Accordingly, GRE recorded a gain from this settlement of $0.2 million.

As of April 23, 2012, the Company and IDT Energy entered into a Loan Agreement with JPMorgan Chase Bank for a revolving line of credit for up to a maximum principal amount of $25.0 million. The proceeds from the line of credit may be used to provide working capital and for the issuance of letters of credit. The Company agreed to deposit cash in a money market account at JPMorgan Chase Bank as collateral for the line of credit equal to the greater of (a) $10.0 million or (b) the sum of the amount of letters of credit outstanding plus the outstanding principal under the revolving note. The Company is not permitted to withdraw funds or exercise any authority over the required balance in the collateral account. The principal outstanding will bear interest at the lesser of (a) the LIBOR rate multiplied by the statutory reserve rate established by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System plus 1.0% per annum, or (b) the maximum rate per annum permitted by whichever of applicable federal or Texas laws permit the higher interest rate. Interest is payable at least every three months and all outstanding principal and any accrued and unpaid interest is due on the maturity date of May 31, 2017. The Company pays a quarterly unused commitment fee of 0.08% per annum on the difference between $25.0 million and the average daily outstanding principal balance of the note. In addition, as of April 23, 2012, GEIC issued a Corporate Guaranty to JPMorgan Chase Bank whereby GEIC unconditionally guarantees the full payment of all indebtedness of the Company and IDT Energy under the Loan Agreement. At September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, there were no amounts borrowed under the line of credit, and cash collateral of $10.0 million was included in “Restricted cash—short-term” in the consolidated balance sheet. In addition, at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, letters of credit of $8.2 million and $7.7 million, respectively, were outstanding.

Note 13—Recently Issued Accounting Standards Not Yet Adopted

In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) and the International Accounting Standards Board jointly issued a comprehensive new revenue recognition standard that will supersede most of the current revenue recognition guidance under U.S. GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”). The goals of the revenue recognition project were to clarify and converge the revenue recognition principles under U.S. GAAP and IFRS and to develop guidance that would streamline and enhance revenue recognition requirements. The Company will adopt this standard on January 1, 2018. Entities have the option of using either a full retrospective or modified retrospective approach for the adoption of the standard. The Company is evaluating the impact that the standard will have on its consolidated financial statements.

In July 2015, the FASB issued an Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) that simplifies the subsequent measurement of inventory. The amendments in this ASU do not apply to inventory that is measured using last-in, first-out or the retail inventory method. The ASU changes the measurement of inventory to the lower of cost and net realizable value. Net realizable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal and transportation. The Company measures GRE’s natural gas inventory at weighted average cost. The Company will adopt the amendments in this ASU on January 1, 2017. The Company does not expect the adoption of this ASU to have a significant impact on its consolidated financial statements.

In January 2016, the FASB issued an ASU to provide more information about recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of financial instruments. The amendments in the ASU include, among other changes, the following: (1) equity investments (except those accounted for under the equity method or that result in consolidation) will be measured at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in net income, (2) a qualitative assessment each reporting period to identify impairment of equity investments without readily determinable fair values, (3) financial assets and financial liabilities will be presented separately by measurement category and form of financial asset on the balance sheet or the notes to the financial statements, and (4) an entity should evaluate the need for a valuation allowance on a deferred tax asset related to available-for-sale securities in combination with the entity’s other deferred tax assets. Entities will no longer be able to recognize unrealized holding gains and losses on equity securities classified as available-for-sale in other comprehensive income. In addition, a practicability exception will be available for equity investments that do not have readily determinable fair values and do not qualify for the net asset value practical expedient. These investments may be measured at cost, less any impairment, plus or minus changes resulting from observable price changes in orderly transactions for an identical or similar investment of the same issuer. Entities will have to reassess at each reporting period whether an investment qualifies for this practicability exception. The Company will adopt the amendments in this ASU on January 1, 2018. The Company is evaluating the impact that the ASU will have on its consolidated financial statements.

In February 2016, the FASB issued an ASU related to the accounting for leases. The new standard establishes a right-of-use (“ROU”) model that requires a lessee to record a ROU asset and a lease liability on the balance sheet for all leases with terms longer than 12 months. Leases will be classified as either finance or operating, with classification affecting the pattern of expense recognition in the income statement. The Company will adopt the new standard on January 1, 2019. A modified retrospective transition approach is required for lessees for capital and operating leases existing at, or entered into after, the beginning of the earliest comparative period presented in the financial statements, with certain practical expedients available. The Company is evaluating the impact that the new standard will have on its consolidated financial statements.

In March 2016, the FASB issued an ASU to improve the accounting for employee share-based payments. The new standard simplifies several aspects of the accounting for share-based payment transactions, including the income tax consequences and classification on the statement of cash flows. The Company will adopt the new standard on January 1, 2017. The Company is evaluating the impact that the new standard will have on its consolidated financial statements.

In June 2016, the FASB issued an ASU that changes the impairment model for most financial assets and certain other instruments. For receivables, loans and other instruments, entities will be required to use a new forward-looking “expected loss” model that generally will result in the earlier recognition of allowance for losses. For available-for-sale debt securities with unrealized losses, entities will measure credit losses in a manner similar to current practice, except the losses will be recognized as allowances instead of reductions in the amortized cost of the securities. In addition, an entity will have to disclose significantly more information about allowances, credit quality indicators and past due securities. The new provisions will be applied as a cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings. The Company will adopt the new standard on January 1, 2020. The Company is evaluating the impact that the new standard will have on its consolidated financial statements.

Note 14—Subsequent Event

On November 2, 2016, GRE acquired Retail Energy Holdings, LLC (“REH”), a privately held owner of REPs, for $9.5 million plus $1.4 million for REH’s working capital, or an aggregate cash payment of $10.9 million. The amount paid for REH’s working capital is subject to adjustment. REH operates as Town Square Energy in eight Eastern states, serving approximately 47,000 electricity residential customer equivalents. REH’s licenses and customer base expands GRE’s geographic footprint to four new states – New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Connecticut – and provides additional electricity customers in New Jersey, Maryland, Ohio and Pennsylvania. REH will be operated as a wholly owned subsidiary utilizing the Town Square Energy brand.

Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

The following information should be read in conjunction with the accompanying consolidated financial statements and the associated notes thereto of this Quarterly Report, and the audited consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto and our Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations contained in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015, as filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (or SEC).

As used below, unless the context otherwise requires, the terms “the Company,” “Genie,” “we,” “us,” and “our” refer to Genie Energy Ltd., a Delaware corporation, and its subsidiaries, collectively.

Forward-Looking Statements

This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, including statements that contain the words “believes,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “plans,” “intends,” and similar words and phrases. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results projected in any forward-looking statement. In addition to the factors specifically noted in the forward-looking statements, other important factors, risks and uncertainties that could result in those differences include, but are not limited to, those discussed under Item 1A to Part I “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 and in Item 1A to Part II “Risk Factors” in this Form 10-Q. The forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this report and we assume no obligation to update the forward-looking statements, or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Investors should consult all of the information set forth in this report and the other information set forth from time to time in our reports filed with the SEC pursuant to the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015.

Overview

We own 99.3% of our subsidiary, Genie Energy International Corporation, or GEIC, which owns 100% of Genie Retail Energy, or GRE, and 92% of Genie Oil and Gas, Inc., or GOGAS. Our principal businesses consist of the following:

GRE has outstanding deferred stock units granted to officers and employees that represent an interest of 2.6% of the equity of GRE.

On March 23, 2016, Total S.A., or Total, gave AMSO its notice of withdrawal from AMSO, LLC. The withdrawal was effective on April 30, 2016.

As part of our ongoing business development efforts, we continuously seek out new opportunities, which may include complementary operations or businesses that reflect horizontal or vertical expansion from our current operations. Some of these potential opportunities are considered briefly and others are examined in further depth. In particular, we seek out acquisitions to expand the geographic scope and size of our REP businesses, and additional energy exploration projects to diversify our GOGAS unit’s operations, among geographies, technologies and resources.

On November 2, 2016, GRE acquired Retail Energy Holdings, LLC, or REH, a privately held owner of REPs, for $9.5 million plus $1.4 million for REH’s working capital, or an aggregate cash payment of $10.9 million. The amount paid for REH’s working capital is subject to adjustment. REH operates as Town Square Energy in eight Eastern states, serving approximately 47,000 electricity residential customer equivalents, or RCEs. REH’s licenses and customer base expands GRE’s geographic footprint to four new states – New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Connecticut – and provides additional electricity customers in New Jersey, Maryland, Ohio and Pennsylvania. REH will be operated as a wholly owned subsidiary utilizing the Town Square Energy brand.

Genie Retail Energy

Seasonality and Weather

The weather and the seasons, among other things, affect GRE’s revenues. Weather conditions have a significant impact on the demand for natural gas used for heating and electricity used for heating and cooling. Typically, colder winters increase demand for natural gas and electricity, and hotter summers increase demand for electricity. Milder winters and/or summers have the opposite effects. Natural gas revenues typically increase in the first quarter due to increased heating demands and electricity revenues typically increase in the third quarter due to increased air conditioning use. Approximately 64% and 59% of GRE’s natural gas revenues for the relevant years were generated in the first quarter of 2015 and 2014, respectively, when demand for heating was highest. Although the demand for electricity is not as seasonal as natural gas (due, in part, to usage of electricity for both heating and cooling), approximately 30% and 20% of GRE’s electricity revenues for the relevant years were generated in the third quarter of 2015 and 2014, respectively. Because of dramatic increases in wholesale electricity prices in January and February 2014, the retail electricity prices that the GRE-owned REPs and many other variable rate electricity suppliers charged to their customers also increased sharply. As a result, approximately 45% of GRE’s electricity revenues in 2014 were generated in the first quarter of 2014. Our revenues and operating income are subject to material seasonal variations, and the interim financial results are not necessarily indicative of the estimated financial results for the full year.

Concentration of Customers and Associated Credit Risk

The GRE-owned REPs reduce their customer credit risk by participating in purchase of receivable, or POR, programs for a majority of their receivables. In addition to providing billing and collection services, utility companies purchase those REPs’ receivables and assume all credit risk without recourse to those REPs. The GRE-owned REPs’ primary credit risk is therefore nonpayment by the utility companies. Certain of the utility companies represent significant portions of our consolidated revenues and consolidated gross trade accounts receivable balance and such concentrations increase our risk associated with nonpayment by those utility companies.

The following table summarizes the percentage of consolidated revenues from customers by utility company that equal or exceed 10% of our consolidated revenues in the period (no other single utility company accounted for 10% or greater of our consolidated revenues in these periods):

na-less than 10% of consolidated revenue in the period

The following table summarizes the percentage of consolidated gross trade accounts receivable by utility company that equal or exceed 10% of consolidated gross trade accounts receivable at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 (no other single utility company accounted for 10% or greater of our consolidated gross trade accounts receivable at September 30, 2016 or December 31, 2015):

na-less than 10% of consolidated gross trade accounts receivable

New York Public Service Commission Orders

On February 23, 2016, the New York Public Service Commission, or PSC, issued an order that sought to impose significant new restrictions on REPs operating in New York, including those owned by GRE. The restrictions described in the PSC’s order, which were to become effective March 4, 2016, would require that all REPs’ electricity and natural gas offerings to residential and small business customers include an annual guarantee of savings compared to the price charged by the relevant incumbent utility or, for electricity offerings, provide at least 30% of the supply from renewable sources. Customers not enrolled in a compliant program would be relinquished back to the local utility at the end of their contract period or, for variable price customers operating on month to month agreements, at the end of the current monthly billing cycle.

On March 4, 2016, a group of parties from the REP industry sought and won a temporary restraining order to stay implementation of the most restrictive portions of the PSC’s order pending a court hearing on those parties’ motion for a preliminary injunction. On July 25, 2016, the New York State Supreme Court, County of Albany, entered a decision and order granting the Petitioners’ petition, vacated provisions 1 through 3 of the Order, and remitted the matter to the PSC for further proceedings consistent with the Court’s order.

The PSC has indicated that it intends to issue a new order to achieve similar objectives without the deficiencies cited by the Court. We are evaluating the potential impact of any new order from the PSC in response to the Court’s vacating of the PSC’s order on our New York operations, while preparing to operate in compliance with any new requirements that may be imposed. Depending on the final language of any new order, as well as our ability to modify our relationships with our New York customers, an order could have a substantial impact upon the operations of GRE-owned REPs in New York.

On July 14, 2016, the PSC issued an Order restricting REPs, including those owned by GRE, from serving customers enrolled in New York’s utility low-income assistance programs. Most recently, on September 27, 2016, the New York State Supreme Court, Albany County, issued an order temporarily restraining the PSC from implementing the July 14, 2016 Order. Representatives of the REP industry challenged the ruling in Court on both procedural and substantive grounds. The judge set a November 18, 2016 return date for the industry’s request to continue that injunction for the duration of the proceeding, which seeks an order permanently invalidating the PSC’s order.

Afek Oil and Gas, Ltd.

In April 2013, the Government of Israel finalized the award to Afek of an exclusive three-year petroleum exploration license covering 396.5 square kilometers in the southern portion of the Golan Heights. In April 2016, Afek received an extension of its license from the Israeli Ministry of Energy and Water through April 9, 2017. Israel’s Northern District Planning and Building Committee granted Afek a one-year permit that commenced in February 2015 to conduct an up to ten-well oil and gas exploration program. On February 1, 2016, Israel’s Northern District Planning and Building Committee approved a two-year extension of that permit. This permit extension is expected to cover the remainder of Afek’s ongoing exploration program in the area covered by its exploration license. Afek is conducting a multi-well oil and gas exploration program pursuant to that license.

In February 2015, Afek began drilling its first exploratory well. To date, Afek has completed drilling five wells in the Southern region of its license area. Afek continues to analyze data collected from the five wells drilled and from the flow tests conducted at two of the completed wells. In light of the analysis received in the third quarter of 2016 and given current market conditions, Afek determined that, based on current information, it did not have a clear path to demonstrate probable or possible reserves in the Southern region of its license area over the next 12 to 18 months. Since there was substantial doubt regarding the economic viability of these wells, in the three months ended September 30, 2016, Afek wrote off the $41.0 million of capitalized exploration costs incurred in the Southern region. Certain analysis and non-field work continues related to the Southern portion of Afek’s license area.

Afek has turned its operational focus to the Northern region of its license area. The data analyzed to date suggests that the Southern block resources may extend northward at depths potentially sufficient to have induced a greater level of maturation of the resource. To validate this hypothesis, Afek plans to drill an exploration well at one of the Northern sites in its original drilling permit approvals. Subject to permitting and completion of drilling rig upgrades, Afek expects to spud this well in the first quarter of 2017.

Afek is seeking financing for the next phase of activity from a variety of sources, some of which could result in a process by which Afek would become an independent entity.

Afek assesses the economic and operational viability of its project on an ongoing basis. The assessment requires significant estimates and assumptions by management. Should our estimates or assumptions regarding the recoverability of future capitalized exploration costs, if any, prove to be incorrect, we may be required to record impairments of such costs in future periods and such impairments could be material.

Investment in American Shale Oil, LLC

AMSO, LLC holds a research, development and demonstration lease awarded by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management that covers an area of 160 acres in western Colorado. Through April 30, 2016, we accounted for our ownership interest in AMSO, LLC using the equity method since we had the ability to exercise significant influence over its operating and financial matters, although we did not control AMSO, LLC. AMSO, LLC was a variable interest entity, however, we determined that we were not the primary beneficiary.

On February 23, 2016, Total notified AMSO of its decision not to continue to fund AMSO, LLC. On March 23, 2016, Total gave AMSO its notice of withdrawal from AMSO, LLC. The withdrawal was effective on April 30, 2016. We are currently decommissioning the project. As of April 1, 2016, AMSO and Total agreed that Total would pay AMSO, LLC $3.0 million as full payment of its share of all costs associated with the decommissioning, winding up and dissolution of AMSO, LLC. Total will not be refunded any amount if the decommissioning costs are less than $3.0 million. Effective April 30, 2016, AMSO, LLC’s assets, liabilities, results of operations and cash flows are included in our consolidated financial statements.

We accounted for our acquisition on April 30, 2016 of Total’s ownership interest in AMSO, LLC as a business combination. We estimated the fair value of AMSO, LLC to be nil, as it had ceased operations and its shutdown was in progress. We recognized a gain from the acquisition of Total’s interest in AMSO, LLC because we acquired the net assets of AMSO, LLC while no consideration was transferred by us, due to our assumption of the risk associated with the shutdown obligations. The gain also included our gain on the remeasurement of AMSO’s investment in AMSO, LLC at its acquisition date fair value. The aggregate gain recognized was $1.3 million, which was included in “Gain on consolidation of AMSO, LLC” in the consolidated statements of operations.

Critical Accounting Policies

Our consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, or U.S. GAAP. Our significant accounting policies are described in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015. The preparation of financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses as well as the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. Critical accounting policies are those that require application of management’s most subjective or complex judgments, often as a result of matters that are inherently uncertain and may change in subsequent periods. Our critical accounting policies include those related to the allowance for doubtful accounts, goodwill, oil and gas accounting and income taxes. Management bases its estimates and judgments on historical experience and other factors that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions. For additional discussion of our critical accounting policies, see our Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015.

Recently Issued Accounting Standards Not Yet Adopted

In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board, or FASB, and the International Accounting Standards Board jointly issued a comprehensive new revenue recognition standard that will supersede most of the current revenue recognition guidance under U.S. GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards, or IFRS. The goals of the revenue recognition project were to clarify and converge the revenue recognition principles under U.S. GAAP and IFRS and to develop guidance that would streamline and enhance revenue recognition requirements. We will adopt this standard on January 1, 2018. Entities have the option of using either a full retrospective or modified retrospective approach for the adoption of the standard. We are evaluating the impact that the standard will have on our consolidated financial statements.

In July 2015, the FASB issued an Accounting Standards Update, or ASU, that simplifies the subsequent measurement of inventory. The amendments in this ASU do not apply to inventory that is measured using last-in, first-out or the retail inventory method. The ASU changes the measurement of inventory to the lower of cost and net realizable value. Net realizable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal and transportation. We measure GRE’s natural gas inventory at weighted average cost. We will adopt the amendments in this ASU on January 1, 2017. We do not expect the adoption of this ASU to have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements.

In January 2016, the FASB issued an ASU to provide more information about recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of financial instruments. The amendments in the ASU include, among other changes, the following: (1) equity investments (except those accounted for under the equity method or that result in consolidation) will be measured at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in net income, (2) a qualitative assessment each reporting period to identify impairment of equity investments without readily determinable fair values, (3) financial assets and financial liabilities will be presented separately by measurement category and form of financial asset on the balance sheet or the notes to the financial statements, and (4) an entity should evaluate the need for a valuation allowance on a deferred tax asset related to available-for-sale securities in combination with the entity’s other deferred tax assets. Entities will no longer be able to recognize unrealized holding gains and losses on equity securities classified as available-for-sale in other comprehensive income. In addition, a practicability exception will be available for equity investments that do not have readily determinable fair values and do not qualify for the net asset value practical expedient. These investments may be measured at cost, less any impairment, plus or minus changes resulting from observable price changes in orderly transactions for an identical or similar investment of the same issuer. Entities will have to reassess at each reporting period whether an investment qualifies for this practicability exception. We will adopt the amendments in this ASU on January 1, 2018. We are evaluating the impact that the ASU will have on our consolidated financial statements.

In February 2016, the FASB issued an ASU related to the accounting for leases. The new standard establishes a right-of-use, or ROU, model that requires a lessee to record a ROU asset and a lease liability on the balance sheet for all leases with terms longer than 12 months. Leases will be classified as either finance or operating, with classification affecting the pattern of expense recognition in the income statement. We will adopt the new standard on January 1, 2019. A modified retrospective transition approach is required for lessees for capital and operating leases existing at, or entered into after, the beginning of the earliest comparative period presented in the financial statements, with certain practical expedients available. We are evaluating the impact that the new standard will have on our consolidated financial statements.

In March 2016, the FASB issued an ASU to improve the accounting for employee share-based payments. The new standard simplifies several aspects of the accounting for share-based payment transactions, including the income tax consequences and classification on the statement of cash flows. We will adopt the new standard on January 1, 2017. We are evaluating the impact that the new standard will have on our consolidated financial statements.

In June 2016, the FASB issued an ASU that changes the impairment model for most financial assets and certain other instruments. For receivables, loans and other instruments, entities will be required to use a new forward-looking “expected loss” model that generally will result in the earlier recognition of allowance for losses. For available-for-sale debt securities with unrealized losses, entities will measure credit losses in a manner similar to current practice, except the losses will be recognized as allowances instead of reductions in the amortized cost of the securities. In addition, an entity will have to disclose significantly more information about allowances, credit quality indicators and past due securities. The new provisions will be applied as a cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings. We will adopt the new standard on January 1, 2020. We are evaluating the impact that the new standard will have on our consolidated financial statements.

Results of Operations

We evaluate the performance of our operating business segments based primarily on income (loss) from operations. Accordingly, the income and expense line items below income (loss) from operations are only included in our discussion of the consolidated results of operations.

Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016 Compared to Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2015

Genie Retail Energy Segment

See Note 2 to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 1to Part I of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for reclassifications and error corrections to GRE’s results of operations. The amounts in the following discussion reflect such reclassifications and corrections for all periods.

Revenues. GRE’s electricity revenue increased in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016 compared to the same periods in 2015 because of an increase in electricity consumption, which increased 17.6% and 9.1% in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016, respectively, compared to the same periods in 2015. The increase in electricity consumption was the result of increases in meters served and average consumption per meter. Electricity meters served increased 5.5% and 7.0% in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016, respectively, compared to the same periods in 2015. Average consumption per meter increased 11.5% and 2.0% in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016, respectively, compared to the same periods in 2015. The increase in GRE’s electricity revenue in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016 compared to the same periods in 2015 was partially offset by a decrease in the average rate charged to customers for electricity, which decreased 6.6% and 4.4% in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016, respectively, compared to the same periods in 2015.

GRE's natural gas revenue decreased in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016 compared to the same periods in 2015 because of decreases in both the average rate charged to customers and natural gas consumption. The average rate charged to customers for natural gas decreased 15.1% and 24.9% in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016, respectively, compared to the same periods in 2015. The decrease in the average rate charged to customers in the nine months ended September 30, 2016 compared to the same period in 2015 was mostly due to a 30.4% decrease in the underlying commodity cost in the nine months ended September 30, 2016 compared to the same period in 2015. Natural gas consumption decreased 8.2% and 16.8% in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016 compared to the same periods in 2015. The decrease in natural gas consumption was partially the result of a decrease in meters served, which decreased 2.3% and 2.6% in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016, respectively, compared to the same periods in 2015, and the 6.0% and 14.6% decrease in average consumption per meter in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016, respectively, compared to the same periods in 2015.

The customer base for the GRE-owned REPs as measured by meters served consisted of the following:

Gross meter acquisitions in the three months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 were 58,000 and 74,000, respectively. Gross meter acquisitions in the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 were 181,000 and 205,000, respectively. In 2016 and 2015, the GRE-owned REPs had success in selling “IDT Energy® SmartBudget” and other offerings with fixed rate characteristics. Net meters served decreased by 7,000 or 1.6% in the three months ended September 30, 2016 compared to an increase of 11,000 or 2.8% in the three months ended September 30, 2015, and decreased by 9,000 or 2.3% in the nine months ended September 30, 2016 compared to an increase of 25,000 or 6.9% in the nine months ended September 30, 2015 mostly due to the decrease in gross meter acquisitions. Average monthly churn decreased from 6.7% in the three months ended September 30, 2015 to 6.4% in the three months ended September 30, 2016, and was basically unchanged at 6.3% in the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015.

GRE-owned REPs began operations in Ohio in the second quarter of 2016, and have applications pending to enter into additional utility service areas, primarily electric and dual meter territories, in various locations in the states where we currently operate and in other jurisdictions. In addition, on November 2, 2016, GRE acquired REH, a privately held owner of REPs that operates as Town Square Energy in eight Eastern states. REH’s licenses and customer base expands GRE’s geographic footprint to four new states – New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Connecticut – and provides additional electricity customers in New Jersey, Maryland, Ohio and Pennsylvania. REH will be operated as a wholly owned subsidiary utilizing the Town Square Energy brand. We continue to evaluate additional, deregulation-driven opportunities in order to expand our business geographically.

The average rates of annualized energy consumption, as measured by RCEs are presented in the chart below. An RCE represents a natural gas customer with annual consumption of 100 mmbtu or an electricity customer with annual consumption of 10 MWh. Because different customers have different rates of energy consumption, RCEs are an industry standard metric for evaluating the consumption profile of a given retail customer base.

The decrease in RCEs at September 30, 2016 compared to September 30, 2015 was primarily due to changing weather patterns as well as the decline in natural gas meters served.

Other revenue in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 includes revenue earned by Diversegy, LLC, or Diversegy, and IDT Energy Network, or IDTEN (formerly Epiq Energy, LLC), both of which were acquired in December 2013. Diversegy and IDTEN earn commissions, entry fees and other fees from their retail energy advisory and brokerage business and network marketing business, respectively.

Cost of Revenues and Gross Margin Percentage. GRE’s cost of revenues and gross margin percentage were as follows:

Cost of revenue for electricity increased in the three months ended September 30, 2016 compared to the same period in 2015 primarily because of the 17.6% increase in electricity consumption in the three months ended September 30, 2016 compared to the same period in 2015 and the 4.6% increase in the average unit cost of electricity in the three months ended September 30, 2016 compared to the same period in 2015. Gross margin on electricity sales decreased in the three months ended September 30, 2016 compared to the same period in 2015 because of the increase in cost of revenues for electricity and in the average unit cost of electricity, as well as competitive factors that did not allow us to pass along these increases to customers. Cost of revenue for electricity decreased in the nine months ended September 30, 2016 compared to the same period in 2015 primarily because of the 15.3% decrease in the average unit cost of electricity in the nine months ended September 30, 2016 compared to the same period in 2015, partially offset by the 9.1% increase in electricity consumption in the nine months ended September 30, 2016 compared to the same period in 2015. Gross margin on electricity sales increased in the nine months ended September 30, 2016 compared to the same period in 2015 because of the declines in cost of revenues for electricity and in the average unit cost of electricity.

Cost of revenue for natural gas decreased in the three months ended September 30, 2016 compared to the same period in 2015 primarily because of the 8.2% decrease in natural gas consumption in the three months ended September 30, 2016 compared to the same period in 2015, partially offset by a 1.6% increase in the average unit cost of natural gas in the three months ended September 30, 2016 compared to the same period in 2015. Gross margin on natural gas sales decreased to negative 2.7% in the three months ended September 30, 2016 compared to the same period in 2015 because the average rate charged to customers decreased and the average unit cost of natural gas increased in the three months ended September 30, 2016 compared to the same period in 2015. Cost of revenue for natural gas decreased in the nine months ended September 30, 2016 compared to the same period in 2015 because the average unit cost of natural gas decreased 30.4% in the nine months ended September 30, 2016 compared to the same period in 2015, and natural gas consumption decreased 16.8% in the nine months ended September 30, 2016 compared to the same period in 2015. Gross margin on natural gas sales increased in the nine months ended September 30, 2016 compared to the same period in 2015 because the average rate charged to customers decreased less than the average unit cost of natural gas.

Other cost of revenues primarily includes commission expense incurred by Diversegy and IDTEN.

Selling, General and Administrative. The decrease in selling, general and administrative expenses in the three months ended September 30, 2016 compared to the same period in 2015 was primarily due to decreases in customer acquisition costs, POR fees and payroll expense, partially offset by an increase in regulatory and legal fees. The decrease in selling, general and administrative expenses in the nine months ended September 30, 2016 compared to the same period in 2015 was primarily due to a decrease in costs for regulatory and legal matters, partially offset by increase in customer acquisition costs. As a percentage of GRE’s total revenues, selling, general and administrative expense decreased from 25.1% in the three months ended September 30, 2015 to 21.5% in the three months ended September 30, 2016, and decreased from 24.3% in the nine months ended September 30, 2015 to 24.0% in the nine months ended September 30, 2016.

Afek Segment

Afek does not currently generate any revenues, nor does it incur any cost of revenues.